ATTITUDE, APTITUDE, ABILITY. ROSS SMITH

ATTITUDE, APTITUDE, ABILITY                                                               ROSS SMITH

ALL REFERENCES FROM AMPLIFIED BIBLE UNLESS NOTED

ATTITUDE     This is when someone has a particular way of thinking or feeling about something (feelings or beliefs) and makes a settled way of thinking or feeling about the matter, they can be positive or negative, but always is the “heart”.

APTITUDE     A natural ability to do something, tendency, talent, in this case, God-given.  “APTITUDE” is POTENTIAL.

2 Timothy 2:2                                     And the [instructions] which you have heard from me along with many witnesses, transmit and entrust [as a deposit] to reliable and faithful men who will be COMPETENT AND QUALIFIED to teach others also.

Paul’s instruction to Timothy was unequivocally to recruit a man with “APTITUDE” and “ATTITUDE” simply because both are required to be COMPETENT and QUALIFIED.

IS ATTITUDE AFFECTED BY APTITUDE?

ABILITY                                   This is skill, capability, capacity, ability or skill to do something. You can gain or cultivate the ability to do things.

Daniel 1:20                                         And in all matters of wisdom and understanding concerning which the king asked them, he found them ten times better than all the [learned] magicians and enchanters who were in his whole realm.

WEAKNESS IN ATTITUDE BECOMES WEAKNESS OF CHARACTER (EINSTEIN)

If you have the right attitude but lack the required aptitude, success can be difficult. Attitude either propels you or inhibits you to develop aptitude, and with the right attitude you can then grow in ability, and the choice remains our singular option. Many will plead that it is not possible to change their attitude, it is just their nature. Paul in writing to the Romans chose to differ for he said in Romans 12:2;

“but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [BY ITS NEW IDEALS AND ITS NEW ATTITUDE],

ATTITUDE

Is comprised of ambition, determination, commitment, and is grounded in temperament, (strong personality), emotional intelligence, (self-control), motivation. (love) I like one word better in this description and that is the word, “MOTIVATION”.

We can be motivated by love (1 Thessalonians 1:3), or like Moses we can be motivated by faith (Hebrews 11:27) or as the apostle Paul stated both he and Peter were motivated by God himself.  (Galatians 2:8)

With the 700 left-handed slingers, (Judges 20:16) they had the motivation to succeed in their skill despite being left-handed, so they also had the right temperament and emotional intelligence, but o doubt continued to work on their “ABILITY”.

When I was an electrical apprentice, I lacked the right attitude, I hated the job, even though my love for my dad developed some aptitude and contributed to adjusting my attitude.   But when I was appointed to ministry, I had the right attitude, my heart was in it, but without any aptitude whatsoever. but Father continues to try and develop some aptitude and hopefully one day, some ability!!!!

“THE WISDOM FROM ABOVE”, freely available to those who ask, (James 1:5) does not indicate skill level, or aptitude or ability, but forms the platform for Father to launch his “gifts and callings”. A quick revision of the appointment of Bezalel in Exodus 36:1 clearly defines that Father can indeed provide us with “APTITUDE” and “ABILITY” if our “ATTITUDE” is aligned with His Word and His purpose,

Romans 11:29                                    For God’s gifts and His call are irrevocable. [He never withdraws them when once they are given, and He does not change His mind about those to whom He gives his grace or to whom He sends his call.

So, having given His gifts, and making His call, Father sets about refining and moulding the servant He has chosen to both carry out His will and to glorify His name. Interestingly, it is not just for a one-off task, but His process continues because “He never withdraws them once they are given” which means that while ever our “ATTITUDE” is proper then there is a continuing development of our “APTITUDE and ABILITY”.

See Romans 12:6(a)                         “Having gifts (faculties, talents, qualities) that differ”,

1 Corinthians 12:6                            And there are distinctive varieties of operation [of working to accomplish things

 1 Corinthians 12:11                        “all these [gifts, achievements, abilities] are inspired and brought to pass by one and the same [holy] spirit,”

Proverbs 17:16                                  Of what use is money in the hand of a [self-confident] fool to buy skilful and godly wisdom–when he has no understanding or heart for it?

“No heart for it” really means that the ATTITUDE is absent and so no matter what resources of a tangible form or nature we have there is no replacement for “ATTITUDE”.

APTITUDE

Pauls 2^nd letter to the Corinthians identifies the “POTENTIAL” or the “APTITUDE” in everyone who would own Jesus Christ as Lord. It is often difficult for us to appreciate the “POTENTIAL” latent within because we are so welded and wedded to the intellectual concepts proposed by the academic world. Access to some educational courses requires proof of “previous learning” which in fact is saying, “does this student have “APTITUDE”?

2 Corinthians 4:7                              however, WE POSSESS 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.

Proverbs 17:16                                  Of what use is money in the hand of a [self-confident] fool to buy skilful and godly wisdom–when he has no understanding or heart for it?

“WISDOM” and “HEART” both identify “ATTITUDE”. If there is no heart, there will be no wisdom. Wisdom of heart = attitude and Exodus 36:2 = motivation.

Exodus 36:2                                        And Moses called Bezalel and Aholiab and every able and wise-hearted man in whose mind the Lord had put wisdom and ability, everyone WHOSE HEART (or “attitude” in the terns we are using) STIRRED HIM UP TO COME TO DO THE WORK

Exodus 35:35                                     He has filled them with wisdom of heart and ability to do all manner of craftsmanship, of the engraver, of the skilful workman, of the embroiderer in blue, purple, and scarlet [stuff] and in fine linen, and of the weaver, even of those who do or design any skilled work.

This God-given “APTITUDE” afforded Bezalel and his colleagues was of little value if they did not possess the motivation or “ATTITUDE” to put it into practice. It is the Lord Who gives the “wisdom and ability” but it is up to us to “stir up our heart to do the work”.

 Psalm 51:6                                         Behold, you desire truth in the inner being; make me therefore to know wisdom in my inmost HEART.

Psalm 90:12                                        So teach us to number our days, that we may get us a HEART of wisdom.

Proverbs 12:8                                    A man shall be commended according to his wisdom [godly wisdom, which is comprehensive insight into the ways and purposes of God], but he who is of a perverse heart shall be despised

This indicates that the heart attitude was the key to unlock the resources of heaven, given to men who are not recorded anywhere else as to their abilities or talents, it is totally Gods equipping.

An artisan is normally only qualified in one trade.  but in the case of Bezalel et al, they were more than ambidextrous, the dexterity was remarkable in the fact that; –

(a) stonemasons would have had hard hands,

(b) carpenters would also have had calloused hands,

(c) a seamstress would have soft hands,

(d) so would a potter to a degree,

(e) a chemist would need careful hands,

(f) a metal refiner would have coarse hands from the effects of the metals and the fumes of the smelting, so the list goes on to prove just how different these men were.

I am not sure that these men had been trained, but they surely had been gifted. It would take several lifetimes to be trained in the skills they were given, particularly in light of the degree of excellence that was demanded, expected and demonstrated.

“PREPARATION IS PARAMOUNT” and nowhere is this more clearly evidenced as with Bezalel.  The progress of Bezalel was most extensive in the preparations he was required to make, timber had to be sourced, dried, dressed shaped, stored.  The gold and brass had to be mined or collected, accounted for, casts made for moulds, anvils for beating, ore mined for the copper and tin, furnaces built and operated (recall the process with the cupel and that was for small quantities). For the cloth, the fibre had to be sourced, refined, dyed, woven, sewn, embossed, embellished, stored. The anointing oil had to have herbs sourced or cultivated, plus the base materials, vessels to compound, accurate quantities, proper storage both for the longevity of the compound and the security of this sacred unguent.

APTITUDE

How similar is “APTITUDE” to “ATTITUDE”, just the swapping of one little letter “P” and yet it carries great significance. Have you noticed that when you enjoy doing something that it comes easy, whereas if it is a chore, you have to battle it through? The difference to our “APTITUDE” is made by our “ATTITUDE”.

The definition of “APTITUDE” is “an individual’s propensity to succeed in a given activity. Aptitude assumes that individuals have inherent strengths and weaknesses and have a natural inclination toward success or failure in specific areas based on their innate characteristics.” (Investopedia)

Just as the Bible requires of us to change our attitude, to take on the attitude of Jesus Christ, and it is obviously possible because it involves not only “ATTITUDE”, but it also includes “PURPOSE”, or in other words the determination to achieve the result. So, there is also the potential to improve our “APTITUDE”, summed up in the saying “Practice makes Perfect”.

Philippians 2:5                                   Let this same ATTITUDE AND PURPOSE and [humble] mind be in you which was in Christ Jesus: [Let Him be your example in humility:]

Revelation 3:19 states, “changing your mind and attitude”, or as I like to translate attitude to mean “heart”. You have heard it said, “he has had a change of heart”, generally, but not always assuming improvement. If we are amenable Father will give us a “new heart” a new attitude and that then will dispose us to a greater propensity for spiritual things or greater “APTITUDE”.

 

 

 

 

 

ACQUAINTANCE AND UNDERSTANDING ROSS SMITH

 ACQUAINTANCE & UNDERSTANDING                                               ROSS SMITH

ALL REFERENCES FROM THE AMPLIFIED VERSION UNLESS NOTED

Isaiah 49:23                                        And kings shall be your foster fathers and guardians, and their queens your nursing mothers. They shall bow down to you with their faces to the earth and lick up the dust of your feet; AND YOU SHALL KNOW [with an ACQUAINTANCE AND UNDERSTANDING based on and grounded in PERSONAL EXPERIENCE] that I am the Lord; for THEY SHALL NOT BE PUT TO SHAME who WAIT for, LOOK for, HOPE for, and EXPECT Me.

We generally assume this portion of scripture is speaking to the Jewish nation, but on closer inspection, we can identify that it is also addressed to the church of today. In this chapter the Messiah is introduced, declaring the full extent of his commission, which is not only to be Saviour to the Jews, but also to the Gentiles, or the church of today.

The prophet understood the name “Israel”, to be ancient Israel, or also as the Christian Church. This is a prophecy concerning Christ and redemption by Him; and of the enlargement of the church in the latter day, by the miraculous intervention and conversion of Jews and the Gentile nations in the present dispensation.

We watch with great anticipation the activity surrounding Israel these days, as we see scripture being actually fulfilled before our eyes. And the agitations of Syria and North Korea creating tensions between major nations is just hastening the day.

But rather than engage in conjecture, as some would, in this case, we can extract the essence of the verse and apply it to our current generation and the present church. The promises of the early part of the verse are God’s responsibility, the latter part of the verse is our responsibility, the “AND YOU”.

The first and very consequential statement is “AND YOU SHALL KNOW”. This requires that we make ourselves aware, in depth, and in truth, the subject nature and the Sovereignty of God. Mere academic understanding is inadequate for when the Word says “You shall KNOW” there is a deeper and more profound understanding than can be simply apprehended by the mind. Spiritual things are spiritually discerned. (1 Corinthians 2:14)

Romans 11:33                                   Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unfathomable (inscrutable,   unsearchable) are His judgments (His decisions)! And how untraceable (mysterious, undiscoverable) are His ways (His methods, His paths)!

The Strong’s translation of the Hebrew (H3045) is far too long to include in its entirety, but just for some clarity let us extract some of the intentions of “KNOW”.

KNOW  H3045                    A primitive root; to KNOW (properly to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including observation, care, recognition; and causatively instruction, designation, punishment, etc.): – acknowledge, be aware.

So, we see it is not just knowing “ABOUT” but comprehending in an extensive and profound manner, that will ultimately enable us to be authoritative about matters that have been our sphere of study and application and appreciation. Not just as a hobby, or an exercise in theological debate, but a life transformed by REALLY KNOWING the God we serve.

It cannot be too hard, for we read in Psalm 46:10 how to achieve this “KNOWING”, but the cost in some cases seems to be too high for what a person either imagines or understands of the benefits, and they have also deferred to their own priority rather than the ultimate prize of “KNOWING GOD”

Psalm 46:10                                        Let be and BE STILL, AND KNOW (RECOGNIZE AND UNDERSTAND) THAT I AM GOD. I will be exalted among the nations! I will be exalted in the earth!

This “Knowing” will introduce an awareness of God’s INCONCEIVABLE GREATNESS, which, when even superficially grasped, will propel us into that pursuit of the heavenly goal proposed right throughout scripture.

Secondly, this verse suggests a dimension that few have contemplated, let alone pursued, and is only able to be attained by the exclusion of all interfering factors that would isolate us from the presence of God. Isaiah goes on to say, WITH AN ACQUAINTANCE AND UNDERSTANDING.  Much of the church has neither!

This is a twofold obligation, firstly as an “ACQUAINTANCE”, not a casual acquaintance as the term suggests in current terminology, but as a relationship born out of the previous “KNOW”, for it is when we know someone intimately, where we have become fully “ACQUAINTED” with the nature and character of that person and have accepted and adopted the “ethos” that formats the person’s behaviour and character, that we can begin to say we “KNOW” them and are “ACQUAINTED” with their life.

We sometimes in conversation mention a name and the other party says “Yes, I know him”, when in fact they only know them either by name, reputation, or sight, but know nothing personal of the individual, and so it is merely an awareness.

The second obligation is equally as valuable, that of “UNDERSTANDING”. We must have an understanding of the intents and purposes of God, and this will condition and control our every activity. No longer will we see circumstance as an imposition or interference or coincidence, but will “UNDERSTAND” that whatever takes place, God is in control. Should you find this proposition confronting then I would respectfully suggest that you have to go back a stage and “KNOW” the God professed by so many but “KNOWN” by so few. Both Old and New Testaments reinforce this.

(SEE ROMANS 11:33)

Psalm 8:6-9                                         You made him to have dominion over the works of Your hands; YOU HAVE PUT ALL THINGS (every circumstance  ..  comments mine) UNDER HIS FEET: All sheep and oxen, yes, and the beasts of the field, The birds of the air, and the fish of the sea, and whatever passes along the paths of the seas. O Lord, our Lord, how excellent (majestic and glorious) is Your name in all the earth!  (The Psalmist had more than a mere “acquaintance with the Lord  ..  comments mine)

Ephesians 1:22                                  And He has put all things under His feet and has appointed Him the universal and supreme Head of the church [a headship exercised throughout the church]

There is only one way open to us to reach this sublime state, many alternative routes are prescribed by the denominations, false teachers abound and will get worse, many will be detoured by the glitz of modern church programs, but the Word says that it is “BASED ON AND GROUNDED IN  PERSONAL EXPERIENCE”.

 Often, we are controlled by our circumstances, but God’s intention is that we RULE IN OUR CIRCUMSTANCES.”

The Prophet Isaiah was meticulous in setting the parameters, he has already specified that we have to “KNOW, HAVE ACQUAINTANCE AND HAVE UNDERSTANDING”. But nowhere does he recommend a particular Bible College, theological institution, reading plan, denomination, Bible translation or any other man manipulated process, he says quite plainly, “BASED ON AND GROUNDED IN PERSONAL EXPERIENCE”.

“EXPERIENCE” is, in fact, the things we are going through and intended for us to learn lessons. Even the gift of God’s wisdom comes by experience according to Proverbs 5:1 “Wisdom learned by actual and costly experience”

This is another double whammy, we can have a good basis, that is, we can have correct doctrinal perceptions and approve the Word of God as our moral code, but the real “BASED ON” is more. It is necessary to cite several scriptures so that we are not ignorant of the “FOUNDATION” or the BASE for our unwavering hope.

Luke 6:48                                             He is like a man building a house, who dug and went down deep and laid a foundation UPON THE ROCK; and when a flood arose, the torrent broke against that house and could not shake or move it, because it had been SECURELY BUILT OR FOUNDED ON A ROCK.

Colossians 2:7                                    Have the roots [of your being] firmly and deeply planted [in Him, fixed and FOUNDED in Him], being continually built up in Him, becoming increasingly more confirmed and established in the faith, just as you were taught, and abounding and overflowing in it with thanksgiving.

Jude 1:20                                             But you, beloved, build yourselves up FOUNDED on your most holy faith [make progress, rise like an edifice higher and higher], praying in the Holy Spirit;

“BASED ON” is followed by another adjective, “GROUNDED”, which means “unwavering” and the most “wavering” aspect of our nature is in our moods, our propensity to be angry, to be resentful, to be jealous, to be proud, to have preferences, to be partial, to engage in “silent debate” just to state a list for you to extend, but more importantly, to deal with.

In electrical terms, to be “GROUNDED” means to protect against circulating, unbalanced currents, both small and large, to prevent electrical shock, and in spiritual terms, it is these same circulating or “undercurrents” that destroy the unity of the Body of Christ, and the Apostle Paul was scathing in his address.

1Corinthians 11:18                          For in the first place, when you assemble as a congregation, I hear that there are cliques (divisions and factions) among you;

Then comes the exciting part, Isaiah specifies that we should be “GROUNDED IN PERSONAL EXPERIENCE”. There are no more potent lessons than those learned by experience. A great example of this was where one of Jesus’ Disciples, had some apprehension as to what he was hearing about the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and so needed to be convinced.

John 20:27                                          Then He (Jesus) said to THOMAS, Reach out your finger here, and see My hands; and put out your hand and place [it] in My side. Do not be faithless and incredulous, but [stop your unbelief and] believe!

Can you imagine Thomas ever doubting Jesus again, his lesson was one of “EXPERIENCE”? The other Disciples could have explained the situation over and over again, to no avail, if they had access to a camera in those days and taken a photo for Thomas, there is still no guarantee that he would have accepted their testimony. But having had a “HANDS ON EXPERIENCE” the lesson was indelibly etched on his heart, mind and spirit forever. WE NEED TO SPEAK FROM EXPERIENCE AND STOP HIDING BEHIND THEOLOGY.

Not for one moment am I suggesting that we need signs and wonders in this day and age to be convinced of the sovereignty of God, those things will follow after we have managed to adopt and comply with the exhortations of Isaiah. (See Mark 16:17)

If we think that we have applied the principles that Isaiah 49:23 has espoused thus far, then we need to stop for a moment and grasp the rest of the instruction as it contains some very pertinent aspects, and serves to prove or refute our testimony

Here then are the truths that evidence a complete faith in the promise and ability of our God. If we do not have these following attributes, then there is a void in our relationship or our acquaintance is questionable, our “grounding” is insecure, our experience is superficial, so we have to refresh those aspects so that the following become the normal of each and every day.

THEY SHALL NOT BE PUT TO SHAME WHO WAIT FOR, LOOK FOR, HOPE FOR, AND EXPECT ME. (Isaiah 49:23)

Just one of these characteristics is not enough, they are all interdependent, but Isaiah has shown the integration in the following verse, but with added virtues.

Isaiah 40:31           But those who: –

• WAIT  for the Lord [who       
• EXPECT,
• LOOK for, and
• HOPE in Him] (with the result   ..  comments mine)

SHALL CHANGE (We need to do this quickly ..  comments mine) AND RENEW THEIR STRENGTH AND POWER; THEY SHALL LIFT THEIR WINGS AND MOUNT UP [CLOSE TO GOD] AS EAGLES [MOUNT UP TO THE SUN]; THEY SHALL RUN AND NOT BE WEARY, THEY SHALL WALK AND NOT FAINT OR BECOME TIRED

The first element, the waiting part,  is not easy, we live in an “Instant” society, it started off with instant coffee, and has rapidly advanced until now we expect everything to be on tap, every day, and at the moment we need it. The advent of the internet ensured that we never have to wait for an answer, sms and email have eliminated the necessity to use pen and paper and the interminable wait for the postman.

Romans 8:25                                      But if we HOPE for what is still unseen by us, we WAIT for it with patience and composure.

We can WAIT in a manner which is PATIENT AND COMPOSED, or we can wait IMPATIENTLY, looking at our watch, changing feet, scowling because our time frame doesn’t fit with Father’s time frame. But no matter what deportment we adopt, Father’s calendar and diary are fully up to date, and so we need to understand that the “PATIENT WAITING” ability is a hallmark of those who have implicit trust in their God.

Impatience is a sin that has its ill effects within us, and that is, contemplating the wrong things. If we would control our passions, we have to abandon “WORTHLESS THOUGHTS”.

But we also have to engage in the second element, the deep conviction that compels us to “EXPECT”. The world has a yardstick that says, “NO EXPECTATIONS THEN NO DISAPPOINTMENTS”. But for those who would qualify,” EXPECTATION” is one elective we have to undertake and qualify.

Recall how I said that these qualities are INTERDEPENDENT, well Jude goes on to show us just how they rely on one another.

Jude 1:21                                             Guard and keep yourselves in the love of God; EXPECT AND PATIENTLY WAIT for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah)–[which will bring you] unto life eternal.

To “EXPECT” is to regard something as probable or likely, to look forward to the probable occurrence of and consider reasonable or due. We can engage in “Expectation” in things that relate to our God, but in the carnal dimension we should only have “expectancy”. To “Expect” suggests we have either a value or quality we want to see, and it may be misplaced or ill-conceived. “Expectancy” leaves the opportunity wide open to things we may never have imagined.

To have an expectation there has to be an objective, there has to be something to aim for or believe is imminent, and again the Psalmist sets the objective clearly in view.

Psalm 39:7                                          And now, Lord, what do I wait for and expect? MY HOPE AND EXPECTATION ARE IN YOU.

When the Word then says, “LOOK”, it is not just to see something interesting that is happening, not just to admire some vista, or to attract attention to a point I want to make. “LOOKING” in this instance is closely associated with the “EXPECTING” because in this case we are adjured to “LOOK FOR HIM”.

This is only possible if we have a description of the person sought. The police when they are pursuing a suspect have not only his name and address, they know what he looks like, both in character and in description, his hair colour, his height and weight, any special marks, anything that will confirm they have the right man.

How well do we know our God, the Bible gives us one huge clue, and invites us to take on the same description and character traits? “GOD IS LOVE”, and for a better understanding of this characteristic see I Corinthians 13.

1 John 4:16                                         And we know (understand, recognize, are conscious of, by OBSERVATION and by EXPERIENCE) and believe (adhere to and put faith in and rely on) the love God cherishes for us. GOD IS LOVE, and he who dwells and continues in love dwells and continues in God, and God dwells and continues in him.

Notice how the character of God is to be replicated in those who “KNOW, UNDERSTAND, RECOGNISE, ARE CONSCIOUS OF, OBSERVE AND EXPERIENCE”, summing up most precisely how important it is to know who we are ”LOOKING FOR”.

Not some superficial grasp or mental picture, but a reality that is born out of our intimate knowledge, our keeping watch, our experience, our penetrating analysis of His nature recorded throughout scripture, THEN WE WILL KNOW WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR.

Our concepts of the last element, that of “HOPE”, are just that, for many people, they are not sure of what it is they are looking for or expecting, they just hope they have got it right, and hope they are going to make it to heaven. This sort of “hope” is not really hope, it is a clone of “doubt”.  Doubt of this sort is in fact “double-mindedness” which creates instability in all areas.

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].

“HOPE” is described as “someone (or something) on which expectations are centred”. So, the interdependency of “HOPE” and “EXPECTATION” is reinforced.  “HOPE” is not some ethereal, theoretical or obscure characteristic, it is beautifully described in elegant variegation in Hebrews, and we can determine from this description if we truly have “TRUE HOPE”.

Hebrews 6:19                                    [Now] we have this [HOPE] as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul [it cannot slip and it cannot break down under whoever steps out upon it–a hope] that reaches farther and enters into [the very certainty of the Presence] within the veil,

How reliable and dependable is this HOPE, it anchors our destiny in the One Who purchased us with a remarkable price, there is no chance of it letting anyone down who practices Godly HOPE. It is all-pervading, extending not only across the times and circumstance we face but reaching into the Holy of Holies of our generation, His very presence.

Why then is there such ambivalence within the body of Christ as to the dependability of our God for every aspect of our lives, He just asks that we rely on the promises of Isaiah 49:23, and if we do,

“WE SHALL NEVER BE PUT TO SHAME” (ISAIAH 49:23)

OBEDIENCE OF CONVENIENCE ROSS SMITH

OBEDIENCE OF CONVENIENCE                                                                         ROSS SMITH

ALL REFERENCES FROM AMPLIFIED VERSION UNLESS NOTED

Acts 24:25                                           But as he continued to argue about uprightness, purity of life (the control of the passions), and the judgment to come, Felix became alarmed and terrified and said, Go away for the present; WHEN I HAVE A CONVENIENT OPPORTUNITY, I WILL SEND FOR YOU.

The sentiment expressed by Felix continues until today, so many folks are content to ignore things until it is convenient or are forced by circumstance to confront or acknowledge the necessity for some action. It has been stated that we can be obedient but not committed, but I would suggest that this is “COMPLIANCE” not “OBEDIENCE” for the latter is cultivated in respect.

When our behaviour patterns are not strictly controlled by either our knowledge of the Word, or by the prompts of the Holy Spirit, via our conscience, and we choose to do what suits us, this is “OBEDIENCE OF CONVENIENCE”, and is actually sin.  (James 4:17)

We know what to do but choose to follow our own selfish pursuits, whether it be to speak out of turn, fail to fellowship and take communion, hold resentment, proceed without Fathers endorsement, lie in bed rather than seek Him early, fail to apply ourselves to study, choose to ignore the command to love one another, casual about out attire or our punctuality, etc.

All the time we are still expecting Father to look after us, provide for us, direct us, and continue to prepare a place for us, while we decide whether it is convenient or not to follow His commands. Maybe this can also be called “SELECTIVE OBEDIENCE”.

Obedience will almost never be convenient.  But it will contain the most rewarding set of experiences we can ever have, the peace of being in His will is priceless. Luke gave a graphic description of a rich man whose concentration was distracted by what he had and what he had achieved, but all for nought.

Luke 12:20                                          But God said to him, You fool! This very night they [the messengers of God] will demand your soul of you; and all the things that you have prepared, whose will they be?

How “INCONVENIENT”! But the attitude of the world at large is that we should adopt the philosophy of the rich man as seen in verse 19,

Luke 12:19                                          And I will say to my soul, Soul, you have many good things laid up, [enough] for many years. TAKE YOUR EASE; EAT, DRINK, AND ENJOY YOURSELF MERRILY.

Today’s culture is all about convenience; whatever makes life simple and convenient is the way to go. Whether it be fast food, correspondence by email, prepackaged everything, drive through coffee, automatic car wash, and dog wash, etc.

Can we imagine it was convenient for Noah to spend 120 years building a boat the size of an aircraft carrier when there wasn’t even the awareness of rain, but he obeyed? It wasn’t convenient for Daniel to keep God’s law and be rewarded with an “overnight” in the lion’s den, but he chose to obey.  It wasn’t convenient for Jesus to go to the cross on behalf of an ungrateful wretch like me, and for many more who would never even accept his sacrifice, but thankfully He did.

 

Luke 9:23-24                                      And He said to all, IF any person wills to come after Me, (Notice this is not an “OBLIGATION” but a choice we make   …   comments mine)  let him deny himself [disown himself, forget, lose sight of himself and his own interests, refuse and give up himself] and take up his cross daily and follow Me [cleave steadfastly to Me, conform wholly to My example in living and, if need be, in dying also]. (A rather “INCONVENIENT” suggestion to the natural mind   …   comments mine) For whoever would preserve his life and save it will lose and destroy it, but whoever loses his life for My sake, he will preserve and save it [from the penalty of eternal death]. (A very CONVENIENT result of the inconvenient suggestion   …   comments mine)

Then there is “CONVENIENT OBEDIENCE”, like the guard rails on the highway, the yellow lines in the car park, the red light on the hot plate, things that require us to comply with safety measures if we don’t want to get hurt. Of course, we can flaunt these alerts and suffer the consequences, and surely this is also true in a spiritual sense as well. We can’t make obedience into something that can only be done at our convenience, that can only be done when it’s easy for us.

We are obedient to the Word up to a point. Obedience “up to a point” is ultimately disobedience, or “convenience”; it demonstrates that we hold some matters to be of higher importance than the Lord. We create the illusion of obedience by doing most everything right UNTIL doing right conflicts with our convenience. But, when convenience supersedes obedience, we find we are engaging in idolatry.

“OBEDIENCE BY CONVENIENCE” is predicated on what we anticipate as achieving the outcome we require. And so, we proceed with some alacrity when we see that things are meeting our expectations, but let the circumstance turn sour and quickly our enthusiasm for perpetuating our goal evaporates under the warmth of adversity.

“OBEDIENCE” is the act of submitting, usually to surrender power to another person.

Proverbs 10:8 (A)                             The wise in heart (or, ”proper attitude”   …   comments mine)  will accept and obey commandments

How foreign that is to today’s society, and maybe even to those of us who state we own Jesus as Lord until we have to let go of our preferences. God requires us to live a life of obedience and intimacy rooted in conviction, we obey His commands from a heart of love and devotion.

Ecclesiastes  12:13                           All has been heard; THE END OF THE MATTER IS: FEAR GOD [REVERE AND WORSHIP HIM, knowing that He is] and KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS, for this is the whole of man [the full, original purpose of his creation, the object of God’s providence, the root of character, the foundation of all happiness, the adjustment to all inharmonious circumstances and conditions under the sun] and the whole [duty] for every man.

Solomon is saying that if we KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS then we will be able to recognise God in all our circumstance.  Just that one verse of scripture, explains the Route the Reason and the Result, and worth repeating in table form: –

THE ROUTE         “Fear God [revere and worship Him, knowing that He is] and KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS”.

THE REASON      “This is the whole of man the full, original purpose of his creation, the object of God’s providence.”

THE RESULT        “The root of character, the foundation of all happiness, the ADJUSTMENT to all inharmonious circumstances and conditions under the sun] and the whole [duty] for every man.”

The formation of character is basic to the DEVELOPMENT OF PERSONALITY  (See study “Personality”)

Not only does Solomon give us (in Ecclesiastes 12:13) the conditions we need to embrace, but he also in veiled terms nominates a path confirmed by Paul. He wrote to the Hebrews, (Hebrews 5:8) and it is of great import to note the terms “ALL INHARMONIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES AND CONDITIONS UNDER THE SUN”, and “THROUGH WHAT HE SUFFERED” which deftly excises any “convenience” that we may wish to introduce. (For further study on this matter see “Understanding the Purpose of Circumstance”)

Hebrews 5:8                       Although He was a Son, He learned [active, special] OBEDIENCE THROUGH WHAT HE SUFFERED (Or in other  words, the “inharmonious circumstances and conditions under the sun”)

 Obedience is most often viewed in a poor light because ideals differ between persons, and particularly when the other party is in a position of authority. That is why children have to be taught to obey when they are small because it gets harder as we mature. To the discredit of our society where the use of a “rod” or even the hand, is now interpreted as “child abuse” and the parent is therefore neutered in their ability to raise children who understand responsibility and respect, borne out of obedience.

Some people, however, are more prone to insisting on their own way, even when both the outcome and the consequence are hostile, but they will forgo benefits of humility and obedience so widely promoted in God’s Word, just for the sake of their ego.

1 Samuel 15:22                                 Samuel said, Has the Lord as great a delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in obeying the voice of the Lord? BEHOLD, TO OBEY IS BETTER THAN SACRIFICE, and to HEARKEN (Or “listen”   …   comments mine) than the fat of rams.

Luke 17:10                                          Even so on your part, when you have done everything that was assigned and commanded you, say, We are unworthy servants [possessing no merit, for we have not gone beyond our obligation]; We Have [Merely] Done What Was Our Duty To Do. 

Noah was inconvenienced for 120 years, today, convenience is a preferred state whether it be fast food, shopping or working hours, or preference for gender

2 Timothy 4:2                                    Herald and preach the Word! Keep your sense of urgency [stand by, be at hand and ready], whether the opportunity seems to be favourable or unfavourable. [Whether it is convenient or inconvenient, whether it is welcome or unwelcome, you as preacher of the Word are to show people in what way their lives are wrong.] And convince them, rebuking and correcting, warning and urging and encouraging them, being unflagging and inexhaustible in patience and teaching.

Hebrews 10:25                                  Not forsaking or neglecting to assemble together [as believers], as is the habit of some people, (the inconvenience) but admonishing (warning, urging, and encouraging) one another, and all the more faithfully as you see the day approaching.

Acts 24:24-25                                    Some days later Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was a Jewess; and he sent for Paul and listened to him [talk] about faith in Christ Jesus. But as he continued to argue about uprightness, purity of life (the control of the passions), and the judgment to come, Felix became alarmed and terrified and said, Go away for the present; when I have a convenient opportunity, I will send for you.

“When it suits me” is a catch cry today, and I do not need to list the areas in which we have been culpable. There is always an underlying attitude which, when we pause for a moment to consider, generally has self-centre.

 

 

 

 

GOD DEALS IN PRINCIPLES ROSS SMITH

GOD DEALS IN PRINCIPLES                                                                        ROSS SMITH

ALL REFERENCES ARE FROM AMPLIFIED VERSION UNLESS NOTED.

To know God’s ways refers to knowing the “PRINCIPLES” by which God works and does things. Often a matter of “PRINCIPLE” is cocooned in an example, and we cannot see past the example to the wider influence. But we have been promised that if we receive the provision Jesus made at Calvary then we would enjoy the privileges of the new birth, and will find that God’s” “PRINCIPLES” apply to our situation, Paul spelt it out,

Galatians 6:15(B) -16                       A new creation [the result of a new birth and a new nature in Christ Jesus, the Messiah]. Peace and mercy be upon all who walk by this rule [who discipline themselves and regulate their lives by this PRINCIPLE], even upon the [true] Israel of God!

It would seem that much of Christendom today, is ruled by POLICY, not PRINCIPLE. The search for church leaders today is not for a spiritual shepherd, not for a pastor, although often that term is utilised, but the church looks for a MANAGER. The qualifications sought are not those of a man of humility and dedication to the Word of God and with a shepherd’s heart, but preferably with an MBA or PhD. Or you can go “online” and in a couple of weeks, you will have your qualification, for just $50.00 and no sweat!!!

Degrees are either “earned” or “honorary”. Earned degrees are those for which you must complete a course of study. Honorary degrees are awarded for something you do with your life that distinguishes you or for making a donation of time or money to the institution that awards the degree. We request an offering of $50 for the Honorary Doctor of Divinity Degree

 PRINCIPLES have been assiduously avoided in the flood of politics. Nowhere has this been better demonstrated as the church’s capitulation to the gay marriage question, and the ensuing fallout which can only continue to escalate. It is recognised as the SECULARISATION OF THE POLITIES, the shrewd or crafty management of public affairs which again, Paul was aware of way back in antiquity when he wrote,

Hebrews 3:13                                    But instead WARN (ADMONISH, URGE, AND ENCOURAGE) ONE ANOTHER every day, as long as it is called Today, that none of you may be hardened [into SETTLED REBELLION] (1 Samuel 15:23) by the deceitfulness of sin [by the fraudulence, the stratagem, the trickery which the delusive glamor of his sin may play on him. (Read “SECULARISATION” …  comments mine)

“SECULARISATION” is defined as “The activity of changing something (art or education or society or morality etc.) so it is no longer under the control or influence of religion.”

2 Thessalonians 2:7                         For the mystery of lawlessness (that hidden principle of rebellion against constituted authority) is already at work in the world, [but it is] restrained only until he who restrains is taken out of the way.

LAWLESSNESS IN LONDON

There is an example of a “PRINCIPLE” in 2 Corinthians 8:11, referring to the habit of almsgiving. But the important aspect, the universal principle of this example, is the demand to “FINISH AND COMPLETE” the task we face.

It does not, or is not restricted to almsgiving but establishes a fact, a principle for everything we are involved in.

2 Corinthians 8:10                            [It is then] my counsel and my opinion in this matter that I give [you when I say]: IT IS PROFITABLE AND FITTING FOR YOU [NOW TO COMPLETE THE ENTERPRISE] which more than a year ago you not only began, but were the first to wish to do anything [about contributions for the relief of the saints at Jerusalem].

Joshua 11:15                                      As the Lord had commanded Moses His servant, so Moses commanded Joshua, and so Joshua did; HE LEFT NOTHING UNDONE of all that the Lord commanded Moses.

There is a quirky example in Deuteronomy 22:8 – the need to put a railing, or parapet around a flat roof. This is, in fact, a social law or PRINCIPLE REGARDING SAFETY, whereas biblical principles are fundamentals or truths.  We are not left in any doubt as to the all-pervading nature of God’s principles, as they affect every avenue of life, and provide safety.

Proverbs 3:6 – “IN ALL YOUR WAYS acknowledge Him” – – – this is a FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLE.

When God works, He does so within specific laws and defined principles, for example, “If you don’t work, you don’t eat”. (2 Thessalonians 3:10)

PRINCIPLE AND PRODUCT

A “PRINCIPLE” must be supported by its “PRODUCT” or a result.  An advertisement doesn’t always guarantee the product’s quality or availability, and likewise, many principles are espoused but often not backed up by performance.

We frequently claim that we have conducted our business or our plans “carefully and prayerfully”, but the end result or outcome does not confirm the principle. Therefore, either the principle was wrong, or our implementation was wrong, can you guess which applies?

The dictionary defines a “PRINCIPLE” as “a fundamental truth or proposition that serves as the foundation for a system of belief or behaviour, or for a chain of reasoning.”

But maybe we meant “IN  PRINCIPLE” which is an entirely different situation. If you agree with or believe something “IN PRINCIPLE”, you agree with the idea in general although you might not support it in reality, or in every situation.

And so, the Christian ethic subscribed to by myriads across the world, is not based or supported by the end result or expected “PRODUCT” and therefore we must conclude that many Christians only agree “IN  PRINCIPLE”, or when it suits them, and not “ON PRINCIPLE”, hence the proliferation of “SECULARISM”.

THAT’S NOT HOW FATHER WORKS OR WANTS US TO WORK

Let me give an example. A well-known supermarket often advertises great deals, good products, recognised brand names, but frequently cannot supply the goods. There obviously was a limited supply and consequently, this results in disappointment for many interested parties. The lack of product can be attributed to legitimate or contrived excuses, but the underlying intention of the advertisement should be to create good faith in the company and its products. Although the advertised product may be very good, if there is no opportunity to prove the product, THE PRINCIPLE IS IN VAIN. They had the right attitude, but they lacked the performance, does that sound familiar?

But see how reliable God’s work is and how authoritative, His principle of speaking was always supported by the product.

Psalm 33:9                                                For HE SPOKE, and IT WAS DONE; He commanded, and it stood fast.

Psalm 105:34                        HE SPOKE, and the LOCUSTS CAME, and the GRASSHOPPERS, and that  without number,

The Apostle Paul knew the importance of “PRINCIPLE” and he implemented it with great fervour, he was a pioneer of faith and relied on the work of the Holy Spirit to confirm the PRINCIPLE by which he spoke.

Romans 15:21                                   But [instead I WOULD ACT ON THE PRINCIPLE] as it is written, They shall see who have never been told of Him, and they shall understand who have never heard [of Him].

This is one of the most significant and fundamental principles of God, and whilst there was opportunity for those who had come under the sound of the gospel to repent, what about those who had never been exposed to this sort of teaching.

Well, the Apostles mission was to teach these people within his reach, but there is an even greater principle at work here, for God has made provision that no one should miss out because they had not heard the gospel preached, those remote or isolated.

It would, however, infer that those who have been taught would carry much greater accountability, but those who were not so privileged were not excluded, and were still accountable, under the DIVINE PRINCIPLE which God initiated.

Romans 1:18-20                               For God’s [holy] wrath and indignation are revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who in their wickedness repress and hinder the truth and make it inoperative. For that which is known about God is evident to them and made plain in their inner consciousness, because God [Himself] has shown it to them. For ever since the creation of the world His invisible nature and attributes, that is, His eternal power and divinity, have been made intelligible and clearly discernible in and through the things that have been made (His handiworks). So [men] are without excuse [altogether without any defence or justification],

God, Himself can be Known by “Revelation”, and His Ways can be Known by “Submission”, but His principles are “WRITTEN”, not just on paper or papyrus, BUT ON THE TABLE OF MEN’S HEARTS. The principles inscribed there can be either adhered to as our conscience sounds the alarm, or we can suppress and cauterise the principle because it interferes with our comfort zone. GOD’S PRINCIPLES ARE GOD’S KEYS

I am sure some are already wanting out because it sounds too hard but let me just list some of the basic “PRINCIPLES” by which God works, and then as we succeed in these, we will become more adept at other and maybe higher principles. Both James (James 4:10) and Peter 1 Peter 5:6) specify that this is fundamental to our elevation.

• LOVE The first and foremost principle
• OBEDIENCE The principle of promoting progress/promotion
• HUMILITY Another most significant principle God uses, He looks for it in those who would qualify for a promotion,

LOVE                     This is the first and foremost principle that Father has established, He stated that there remained three things, “Faith, Hope and Love” but concluded that the last one was the most important. “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 Corinthians 13:13(B)

 In the Bible, there is the aspect of love for persons who are not attractive or virtuous or productive. In this case, love is not a delight in what a person is, but a deeply felt commitment to helping him be what he ought to be. Love also is the defining characteristic of disciples, the means by which they are identified.

John 13:35                                          By this shall all [men] know that you are My disciples, IF you love one another [if you keep on showing love among yourselves].

Our first responsibility, however, is spelt put by that eminent biblical physician, Dr Luke. He was suitably qualified to understand the health benefits of a total commitment to the principles of God and he recorded it in indisputable terms, and not only demanded the expression of our love from using all our faculties, but then compounded the matter by including our neighbour.

Luke 10:27                                          And he replied, YOU MUST LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind; and your neighbour as yourself.

In Colossians 4:14, St. Paul writes: “Luke the beloved physician and Demas greet you”, indicates that his “day job” (as opposed to his apostolic efforts) was as a medical practitioner. Recognition of his profession would generate a general consensus that what he says was worth not only acknowledging but energetically applying.

Luke himself evidenced what he wrote, his medical skills, like Paul’s tentmaking, may have contributed to his livelihood; but his principal occupation was the advancement of the Christian mission.

OBEDIENCE

“Obedience” is the unquestioning concurrence with the one to whom we ascribe respect, honour, loyalty. We generally obey our bosses because they pay us, and we generally obey the road rules else we are penalised. But our obedience to God, our “prompt obedience” originates from a far greater purpose and consequence. Obedience is the practical acceptance of the authority and will of God, “regardless of our outward conditions.” (See Matthew 5)

1 Corinthians 8:3                              But if one loves God truly [with affectionate reverence, Prompt Obedience, and grateful recognition of His blessing], he is known by God [recognized as worthy of His intimacy and love, and HE IS OWNED BY HIM].

We frequently assert that we have faith, but faith is evidenced in obedience, else it may be just presumption. It is important to remember that our obedience to God is not solely a matter of duty, we obey Him because we love Him (John 14:23). And this reciprocation is identified in 1 John 4:19  We love Him, because He first loved us.

Philip laid out the requirements very clearly to the Ethiopian eunuch explaining that there was more to it than just acknowledging the sovereignty of God, a trap many fall into today because the church has not promoted or explained what development is required after salvation. The confession of “faith” has to be supported by the action of “obedience”.

Acts 8:37                                             And Philip said, If you believe with all your heart [if you have a conviction, full of joyful trust, that Jesus is the Messiah and accept Him as the Author of your salvation in the kingdom of God, GIVING HIM YOUR OBEDIENCE, then] you may. And he replied, I do believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.

Romans 6:16 tells us that “obedience which leads to righteousness (right doing and right standing with God”, making it such a critical aspect of our walk with the Lord. Obedience doesn’t come naturally to most people, and we see that manifest in children, it arises out of training or teaching, and the object of that teaching has to “LEARN”. Jesus set the example.

Hebrews 5:8                                       Although He was a Son, He learned [active, special] obedience through what He suffered

It falls into a similar category as “WISDOM”, that Wisdom that is from above, (James 3:17) incorporating eight different characteristics which require our constant and strict attention to both accrue the trait and then evidence the trait. One important identifier is that the persons eligible, have to be SONS, the result of Jesus sacrifice and the consequence of our acceptance and application.

Proverbs 5:1                                       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],

As mentioned, the responsibility of the church is to educate people in the responsibilities of “faith” grounded in obedience, not just offer the free ride that so many have come to expect and often demand, and to alert us to the fact that the “learning experience” can and will often be onerous. Paul recognised that this was one of the prime requirements of his extensive ministry and gifting, and he left the Romans in no doubt that he was intending to implement his apostleship unwaveringly.

Romans 1:5                                        It is through Him that we have received grace (God’s unmerited favour) and [our] apostleship to PROMOTE OBEDIENCE TO THE FAITH and make disciples for His name’s sake among all the nations,

We also demonstrate “OBEDIENCE” when we unquestioningly accept that every circumstance we face on a daily basis is under the watchful providence of God. This also comprises a steep learning curve as we have never really recognised God in every event of our day. Some will want to cavil with this truth, but the Word of God is precise and persistent in the demand for us to readily, consciously and obediently bow to His arrangements so that we “try to LEARN [in your experience] what is pleasing to the Lord”. (Ephesians 5:10)

The only similarity between obedience and disobedience is that they reflect the type of lifestyle we have. If we have sincerely committed our lives to God, then we are going to obey Him, we are going to trust Him and leave all the consequences to Him. In times of disobedience, we lean to our own desires or preferences for direction. We vacillate back and forth between what we want to do and what we know is right. According to James 4:17, that constitutes sin.

HUMILITY

HUMILITY IS THE FERTILE SOIL OF RIGHTEOUS CHARACTER.

HUMILITY is one of the most very basic “PRINCIPLES” of God, it suggests total freedom from threats, either real or perceived. Even Old Testament advice is appropriate here.

Job 22:23                                             If you RETURN to the Almighty (this next part is the confronting part … comments mine) [and SUBMIT AND HUMBLE YOURSELF before Him], you will be built up; if you put away unrighteousness far from your tents,

PRIDE IS CONCERNED WITH WHO IS RIGHT, HUMILITY IS CONCERNED WITH WHAT IS RIGHT

1 Peter 5:6                                          Therefore humble YOURSELVES [demote, lower yourselves in your own estimation] under the mighty hand of God, that in due time He may exalt you,

“Humility is the displacement of self by the enthronement of God.”(A. Murray)

Micah 6:8                                            HE HAS SHOWED YOU, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, and to love kindness and mercy, and TO HUMBLE YOURSELF AND WALK HUMBLY WITH YOUR GOD?

This verse leaves us in no doubt that we have been alerted to the principles that God requires of us, “HE HAS SHOWED YOU”, but we fail to see or learn the lesson. Surely, we should be able to see by the very creation around us that God’s principles control the whole universe, why then can I be so impudent and arrogant as to think I am of any consequence. “HUMILITY” is one hard lesson in a world that is intensely competitive. But the only competition of any consequence is the race we are running to reach our eternal destiny.

I am not running against any other person, but I am sure racing the clock, for I squander so many chances and opportunities to develop my “HUMILITY” by failing to recognise God at work in every area, and my ego or pride or preferences overrule the goad of conscience in an  attempt to garrison my self-esteem, which is nothing but a fantasy.

“One cannot be humble and aware of oneself at the same time.”
(Madeleine L’Engle)

It seems that down through the ages man men have recognised to virtue and necessity of “HUMILITY” and so I wonder why it is that we are so slow in embracing a fundamental “PRINCIPLE” that has Father’s endorsement and demand.

“The humble person is open to being corrected, whereas the arrogant is clearly closed to it. Proud people are supremely confident in their own opinions and insights. No one can admonish them successfully: not a peer, not a local superior, not even the pope himself. They know – and that is the end of the matter. Filled as they are with their own views, the arrogant lack the capacity to see another view. (Fr. Thomas Dubay)

 

SILENT DEBATE ROSS SMITH

SILENT DEBATE                                                                                                          ROSS SMITH

ALL REFERENCES FROM AMPLIFIED BIBLE UNLESS NOTED

Psalm 4:4                                             Be angry [or stand in awe] and sin not; commune with your own hearts upon your beds and be silent (sorry for the things you say in your hearts)

This “SILENT DEBATE” is different from musing or meditating. “Debate” involves discussion or even a formal contest advocated by opposing opinions, in cruder terms it is an argument conducted in our minds. This is really contention, a practice the Israelites were skilled in and described in Exodus 17:7 as “Meribah”. Now, this was not silent debate but open hostility, but no more perverse or dangerous. It is engaging in “Internal “Dialogue.

Exodus 17:7                                        He called the place Massah [proof] and Meribah [CONTENTION] because of the fault-finding of the Israelites and because they tempted and tried the patience of the Lord, saying, Is the Lord among us or not?

Each one of us has the proclivity to ponder “would be, could be, should be”, formed around scenarios of what we could say or what we could do in certain situations. We frequently berate ourselves because later we have been able to come up with better answers than those we provided face-to-face in our last dialogue.

But we have failed to realise that when we are discontent in any way shape or form it is an insult to the Lord. It is indicative that we are not aware that the circumstances which we face are completely under His control and appreciate that He is sovereign in the preparations He makes for us. Our objections constitute disagreement with His creative genius. The letter to the Philippians makes the situation particularly clear, our inward debate may seem innocuous to us, but it is actually “AGAINST GOD”.

Philippians 2:14                                Do all things without grumbling and fault-finding AND COMPLAINING [AGAINST GOD] and questioning and doubting [among yourselves],

James 3:16 describes basically that internalised or “silent debate” such as jealousy, rivalry, selfish ambition, avarice, resentment, worthless thoughts etc.  are all compatriots of “contention”, and not a single word needs to be spoken. The process doesn’t just hibernate in our heart, it germinates into a tree crafted to produce a variety of noxious and pernicious growth, producing and perpetuating confusion, unrest, disharmony, rebellion, all sorts of evil and vile practices.

James 3:16                                          For wherever there is jealousy (envy) and contention (rivalry and selfish ambition), there will also be confusion (unrest, disharmony, rebellion) and all sorts of evil and vile practices. 

In all that James cites there is the intrinsic potential for each of the components to be active and effective without a single word being spoken. All these corrosive and abrasive elements can be engaged in without anyone else knowing, that is until the fruit begins to become evident, which it assuredly will.

There will be very little evidence of the Christlike personality we have been agitated to develop, in fact, the potential expands as James says “all sorts of evil and vile practices. “

There is some sage advice offered in Hosea and I am sure there is not one of us that has not at some time “wasted time” in either trying to vindicate ourselves or justify our position by using putdowns or criticisms, excusing them as our self-preservation when under duress. Not only are recriminations a waste of time, they use up valuable space for contemplation, frequently generate copious gastric juices and lead to loss of sleep as we rotate the “SILENT DEBATE” resulting in “all sorts of evil and vile practices”.

Hosea 4:4                                            Yet let no man strive, neither let any man reprove [another–do not waste your time in mutual recriminations], for with you is My contention, O priest.

The parable of the rich man is another telling example of the useless pastime of “SILENT DEBATE” as he arrogantly pondered his creature comforts and ignored, to his detriment, his eternal destiny. Notice he had not made any dialogue with anybody else but he “considered and debated within himself”.

Luke 12:17                                          And HE CONSIDERED AND DEBATED WITHIN HIMSELF, What shall I do? I have no place [in which] to gather together my harvest.

Not all silent debate is perverse, but the preservative is the repetitive and regular replay of the Word of God, freshly gathered every day like the manna harvested by the Israelites every day, so that we can contemplate and meditate even whilst engaged in other matters, and Peter was a great example.

Acts 10:19                                           And while Peter was EARNESTLY REVOLVING THE VISION IN HIS MIND AND MEDITATING ON IT, the [Holy] Spirit said to him, Behold, three men are looking for you!

“SILENT DEBATE” is no new phenomena, for way back in Genesis after the  disastrous decisions made by Adam and Eve it seems that the whole population chose to follow their own mental reasonings and which the Word defines their “imaginations and intentions”, the language clearly describing that the transactions were occurring within the grottoes of their mind. The ultimate consequence was “evil continually”.

Genesis 6:5                                         The Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination and intention of ALL HUMAN THINKING was only EVIL CONTINUALLY.

GREAT IMAGINATIONS

We should therefore not become too complacent with our position in Christ, just because we have accepted him as Lord and acknowledged that Jesus is the Christ, it requires much more. The apostle Paul in writing to the Romans identified those who claim to be Christian, but their profession lacked the necessary behavioural patterns that would glorify God and instead they engaged in “SILENT DEBATE”.

The list is quite imposing. Just one more compelling reason for us to consider our “small talk” for often that leads to “sense and reason without the Holy Spirit” (Romans 8:6-8) debating things which are speculative and earthy and the consequences are death.

Romans 1:21                                      Because when they knew and recognized Him as God, they did not honour and glorify Him as God or give Him thanks. But instead they became futile and godless in their thinking [with vain imaginings, foolish reasoning, and stupid speculations] and their senseless minds were darkened.

VAIN  IMAGINATIONS

Psalm 73:7                                          Their eyes stand out with fatness, they have more than heart could wish; and the imaginations of their minds overflow [with follies]. 

Fortunately, there is a remedy but as previously indicated it requires that we know the Word of God intimately, not just on a theoretical basis but taking absolute control over our thought patterns pragmatically so that they comply with the dictates of God’s Word. (See  Corinthians 10:5 below) You may well ask how do we do that? Well Proverbs 16:3 simplifies the matter but it requires that we become habitual in the application and experienced in the result.

Proverbs 16:3                                    Roll your works upon the Lord [commit and trust them WHOLLY to Him; HE WILL CAUSE YOUR THOUGHTS TO BECOME AGREEABLE TO HIS WILL, and] so shall your plans be established and succeed.

“SILENT DEBATE” has a substantial component of “worthless thoughts” and no doubt the apostle Paul had this in mind as he alerted the Corinthians to the practice and necessity of testing our silent debate against the word of God.

2 Corinthians 10:5                            [Inasmuch as we] refute arguments and theories and reasonings and every proud and lofty thing that sets itself up against the [true] knowledge of God; and we lead every thought and purpose away captive into the obedience of Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One)

Here are three simple directions to rule our daily activities;

Proverbs 16:3                                    “roll you works” – – for what you are doing

1 Peter 5:7                                          “cast your cares” – – for what you are thinking

Proverbs 3:6                                       “acknowledge Him” — for where you are going

If our internal dialogue is not continually referencing Scripture, then our contemplation and prognostications are most likely to be on matters of debate. “Wholly joyful” will leave no room for “silent debate” but is the result of a “meditating, contemplative heart”.

Not many are prone to engaging in crime, but many on a daily basis engage in silent rebellion/debate.  I am not sure that we realise how diabolical “SILENT DEBATE” is in its nature, and Isaiah in chapter 59, verses 12 and 13, that we are transgressing “ speaking oppression and revolt, CONCEIVING IN AND MUTTERING AND MOANING FROM THE HEART words of falsehood.”

Romans 8:6                                        Now the mind of the flesh [which is sense and reason without the Holy Spirit] (or “silent debate” in our head   …   comments mine) 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]. (or “wholly joyful” James 1:2 …   comments mine)

Luke 5:22                                             But Jesus, knowing their thoughts and questionings, answered them, Why do you question IN YOUR HEARTS?   (In other words, you need to examine your motives and repair your attitude)

A classic example is seen in Lots wife looking back! She betrayed her secret longing for the way of life she knew.

Luke 17:32  “Remember Lot’s wife!”        She had become “infected” by the society in which she lived, probably by carelessness, or neglect, or apathy. The loss of spiritual power takes place almost imperceptibly, our love begins to get cold. (Matthew 24:12)

Peer pressure aims for conformity and compromise, and contact or fellowship with careless people is like leaven in the lump.

We cannot begin to imagine the ruminations of the Pharisee’s mind in Luke 18 as he compiled his arsenal of insults and familiarised himself with people’s behaviour, either by observation or hearsay. What sort of people did he associate with whose activities stirred such investigation, and provoked such self-righteousness?

This superficial perception of his surrounding anthropology, his assessment of human behaviour does not seem to include any traits for the recommendation, just an introspection of “WHAT A GOOD BOY AM I”.

Luke 18:11-12                                     The Pharisee took his stand OSTENTATIOUSLY and began to pray thus before and with himself: God, I thank You that I am not like the rest of men–extortioners (robbers), swindlers [unrighteous in heart and life], adulterers–or even like this tax collector here. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I gain.

WHAT A GOOD BOY AM I!

The criteria for what we allow our minds to speculate is defined for us in God’s Word, by differentiating the inappropriate and the appropriate in indisputable terms. It prescribes the parameters of inadvisable mental behaviour and then gives the benchmark for both the way and the discipline of how we think. Pauls introduction uses the term “IN AS MUCH” which means “To such an extent that; or to the degree that” and should therefore cause us to stop and ponder “to what degree” we “lead every thought and purpose away captive into the obedience of Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One”.

2 Corinthians 10:5                            [INASMUCH as we] refute arguments and theories and reasonings and every proud and lofty thing that sets itself up against the [true] knowledge of God; and we lead EVERY THOUGHT AND PURPOSE away captive into the obedience of Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One),

PEACE IS THE RESULT OF ACCEPTING THE LORD’S ADMINISTRATION, PROVIDENCE AND DOMINION.

Doctor Luke was obviously skilled in more ways than one, for he identified that mental distress had adverse effects on one’s heart, the “SILENT DEBATE” carried out internally was obvious then in the way they behaved, their heart trouble led to mental distress. How much then today in a world where there is such a plague of mental illness and heart disease does this principle apply?

Luke 24:38                                          And He said to them, Why are you disturbed and troubled, and why do such doubts and questionings arise in your hearts?

SILENT DEBATE IS OFTEN INWARD ANIMOSITY

If we were more aware that what we pondered in the carnal realm was being monitored and noted by Father Himself, would we be more careful in where we let our mind wander. If we were conscious of Father’s omnipresence, like as if he was standing beside us, and listening in on what we are inwardly debating, would this awareness make me more careful?

Mark 2:8                                              And at once Jesus, becoming fully aware in His spirit that they thus debated within themselves, said to them, WHY DO YOU ARGUE (DEBATE, REASON) ABOUT ALL THIS IN YOUR HEARTS?

Luke 5:22                                             But Jesus, knowing their thoughts and questionings, answered them, WHY DO YOU QUESTION IN YOUR HEARTS?

What a warning Ezekiel brought to the people in his day. (see below)  But it is the same today as Hebrews records the efficacy where the Word of God says,  (Hebrews 4:12 B) “exposing and sifting and analysing and judging the very thoughts and purposes of the heart.”

Ezekiel 11:5                                        And the Spirit of the Lord fell upon me, and He said to me, Speak. Say, Thus says the Lord: This is what you thought, O house of Israel, for I know the things that come into your mind. 

Paul in writing to the church at Colossae provided a positive remedy for mental illness, and it would seem that the initial responsibility lies entirely with us, there remains a choice.  Paul says, “LET the peace”, and so the “LET” becomes our choice, we either accept the offer of the Divine or we stumble along contending in our hearts and minds, things which when analysed are or no value. The last part of Colossians 3:15 sets the parameter for our success and leaves no room for contention either within or without. (Isaiah 32:17)

Colossians 3:15                                 And LET the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ’s] one body you were also called [to live].AND BE THANKFUL (APPRECIATIVE), [GIVING PRAISE TO GOD ALWAYS]. (Same as James 1:2, “wholly joyful”)

Ecclesiastes 10:20                            Curse not the king, no, not even in your thoughts, and curse not the rich in your bedchamber, for a bird of the air will carry the voice, and a winged creature will tell the matter.

THE HOLY AND THE PROFANE – ROSS SMITH

THE HOLY AND THE PROFANE                THE SACRED AND THE SECULAR          THE CLEAN AND THE UNCLEAN         THE PRECIOUS AND THE VILE      –       ROSS SMITH

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Ezekiel 44:23                                      The priests shall TEACH My people the difference between the HOLY and the common or PROFANE, and CAUSE them to distinguish between the unclean and the clean.

One of the important calls of God upon the church today is that we become ministers unto the Lord. Father is looking for men and women who want to know His place, His heart, His ways, and what He wants. Ezekiel 44:23 spells out the responsibilities of the Old Testament priests and the demand is no less onerous on the New Testament priesthood.

If we are to proceed to the plane of holiness that is so clearly prescribed in the Word, then Ezekiel 44 indicates two important requirements.

• The priest is to TEACH the difference between the holy and the profane
• the priest is to CAUSE the people to distinguish between the clean and the unclean— or in other words, make the people apply the principles.

Ezekiel 44:23                                      The priests shall TEACH My people the difference between the HOLY and the common or PROFANE, and CAUSE them to distinguish between the unclean and the clean.

Ezekiel 22:26                                  Her priests have done violence to My law and have profaned My holy things. They have made no distinction between the SACRED AND THE SECULAR, neither have they taught people the difference between the UNCLEAN AND THE CLEAN and have hid their eyes from My Sabbaths, and I am profaned among them.

Now we have three different terminologies to ensure that we are left in no doubt as to what is required of us. Ezekiel 44 uses the terms “HOLY and PROFANE” together with “CLEAN and the UNCLEAN” but then in Ezekiel 22, it is called the “SACRED and the SECULAR”, all of which are addressing the same condition and eliminating any potential for pedantics in trying to sidestep the demand. Jeremiah 15:19 extends the description by stating; “and if you SEPARATE THE PRECIOUS FROM THE VILE [cleansing your own heart from unworthy and unwarranted suspicions concerning God’s faithfulness.

“HOLINESS” will only be attained by those who are entirely dedicated to the pursuit of this degree of Christ-likeness, it is a position in God developed by our personal and singular relationship to God, and Haggai states in chapter 2:12 – 13, “holiness is not infectious but unholiness is infectious”.

Now we all know that to “TEACH” is easier than to “CAUSE”, for you can lead a horse to water but you cannot make him drink. There is obviously a principle contained in Ezekiel that relates to the responsibility of the priests and as a consequence recognise the office of the priesthood, to which all genuine Christians belong in New Testament times.

1 Peter 2:5                                          [Come] and, like living stones, be yourselves built [into] a spiritual house, for a holy (dedicated, consecrated) priesthood, to offer up [those] spiritual sacrifices [that are] acceptable and pleasing to God through Jesus Christ.

IMPROPER SACRIFICE      (Aaron’s sons Nadab and Abihu)

1 Peter 2:9                                          But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a dedicated nation, [God’s] own purchased, special people, that you may set forth the wonderful deeds and display the virtues and perfections of Him Who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light

However, if we are to “worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness”, (Psalm 96:9) then obviously we have got to understand what that holiness is. Just like we understand “WHAT WORSHIP IS NOT” so we need to explore “WHAT HOLINESS IS NOT”. We need to learn the difference between THE HOLY AND PROFANE.

In the study on “WORSHIP”, we found in Romans 12:1 that we had to make “a living sacrifice”. The first description of that living sacrifice was “HOLY”, and which went on to say, “it is well pleasing to God”.

Ecclesiastes 2:26(B)                         For to the person who pleases Him GOD GIVES WISDOM AND KNOWLEDGE AND JOY

By extrapolation then, if HOLINESS is well pleasing to God then COMMON or PROFANE or the SECULAR must be displeasing to God. Is not then this singular idea sufficient incentive for us to address every aspect of our life and bring it to order.

Paul in his correspondence to the Romans is astute enough to realise that the Romans would need some explanation so in;

Rom 12:2                                             Do not be CONFORMED (This is the priests job to teach) to this world (this age), [FASHIONED AFTER AND ADAPTED (this is the priests job to cause distinction) to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], SO THAT YOU MAY PROVE [FOR YOURSELVES] (this is the result of being caused to distinguish) 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]. (This is the “well pleasing and acceptable” condition nominated by 1 Peter 2:5)

So firstly, we see that “conformity to the world” obviously comes under the category of “The Profane” or the “Secular”, and if we then proceed, we will determine that behaviour referred to is that of, “fashioned after and adapted to external superficial customs”. We may not engage in gross sin but by doing or participating in things that constitute worldly pursuits may be quite legal but certainly not expedient. (1 Corinthians 10:23)

This one statement is cause enough for us to stop and evaluate the whole pattern of church activity, particularly in this day and generation whereby it seems that the church finds it either necessary or convenient to engage in activities which have long been the domain of “the age”.

The secularised church of today tries to use;

• Rock ‘n’ roll to reach young people
• Sacred dance to entertain people
• Beer and bingo to attract people
• the spectacular to confuse people
• The elaborate to impress people
• BUT HAS FAILED MISERABLY IN HOLINESS TO REDEEM PEOPLE.

 

The progress of “HOLINESS” is just that, a walk of progress clearly spelt out in 2 Peter 1:5 – 10. You will often hear folk referring to “the good old days” or “the church where I used to go” or “they don’t do it like we did”, none of which takes into consideration whether it is “WELL PLEASING TO GOD”, just so long as it is “well pleasing to me”.

Romans 12:2 goes on to say “be transformed or changed by the ENTIRE renewal of your mind, by its new IDEALS and its and its new ATTITUDE.

Notice that “ATTITUDE” is in the singular and so infers there is no room for the plural, no room for preferences. This transformation is all-pervading, purifying, refining, realigning, not only the things we think are important or our “IDEALS” but also our very heart or “ATTITUDE”.

Do we think that there is no need for change? The letter to the Philippians seems to indicate that there is room for improvement

Philippians 1:27                                Only be sure as citizens so to conduct yourselves [that] your manner of life [will be] worthy of the good news (the Gospel) of Christ, so that whether I [do] come and see you or am absent, I may hear this of you: that you are standing firm in united spirit and purpose, striving side by side and CONTENDING WITH A SINGLE MIND FOR THE FAITH of the glad tidings (the Gospel).

Philippians 2:2                                   Fill up and complete my joy by living in harmony and being of THE SAME MIND AND ONE IN PURPOSE, HAVING THE SAME LOVE, BEING IN FULL ACCORD AND OF ONE HARMONIOUS MIND AND INTENTION. 

Philippians 3:15                                So let those [of us] who are spiritually mature and full-grown HAVE THIS MIND AND HOLD THESE CONVICTIONS; and if in any respect you have a different attitude of mind, God will make that clear to you also. 

We have already determined that worship is an ATTITUDE (As in Romans 12:2) and if we have this attitude then all the other attitudes, plural, will submit to the holy way of that which is “well pleasing to God”.

The priest’s responsibility is to “TEACH” these principles and again in Romans 12:2 we have the reinforcement of Ezekiel 44:23 when it says, “prove for yourselves”, whereas Ezekiel says, “cause them to distinguish” and the object of this instruction is the same.

• Romans What is good and acceptable
• Ezekiel What is clean and unclean

So, the initial instruction which forms the basis and foundation for worship, that is, our living sacrifice, now explodes with lucid truth as we see that worship in the beauty of holiness demands individual and personal action.

Already this will cause distress to some, for any demand or responsibility placed upon a person not prepared to sincerely worship and to strive for holiness will create a resistance and a resentment in the heart of that individual. Again, this is the fault of many of the leaders and ministers of the 20^th-century church, that is, they have become common or have adapted their ministry and message so that they don’t cause discomfort. They do not “cause the people to distinguish between the clean and the unclean”. The church has succumbed to “SECULARISATION”.

Paul recognised this same problem almost 2000 years ago when he wrote in;

Galatians 1:10                                   Now am I trying to win the favour of men, or of God? Do I seek to please men? If I were still seeking popularity (THE “Common”) with men, I should not be a bond-servant of Christ (THE “Holy” servant) (the Messiah).

THE COMPROMISE OF THE WORD OF GOD MAKES THE WORD OF GOD “COMMON”.

 We see in 2 Timothy 3:16 that all Scripture is God-breathed, given by his inspiration and is profitable for,

• Instruction
• Reproof
• Conviction of sin
• Correction of error
• Discipline in obedience
• Training in righteousness, that is HOLY LIVING, in conformity to God’s will in thought purpose and action.

Notice nowhere does this include “funnies or fairy-tales, and so adherence to the pure unadulterated Word is not a popular approach. So, let us again explore the difference between the “HOLY AND THE PROFANE” or the “SECULAR AND THE SACRED.”

Hebrews 12:14                                  Strive to live in peace with everybody and pursue that CONSECRATION AND HOLINESS (It is difficult to be “HOLY” without “CONSECRATION”)  WITHOUT WHICH NO ONE WILL [EVER] SEE THE LORD. 

 At first glance, the Scripture would seem contradictory, for striving infers “strife” and “peace” obviously is the total opposite. In fact, strife is “commonness” and peace is “holiness”, that peace that originates by the Holy Spirit. The letter to Timothy spells it out in finite detail.

2 Timothy 2:24                                  And the servant of the Lord (First qualification) must not be quarrelsome (fighting and contending). (Second qualification) INSTEAD, he must be kindly to everyone and mild-tempered [preserving the bond of peace]; (Third qualification) he must be a skilled and suitable teacher, patient and forbearing and willing to suffer wrong. 

Timothy says there are things we must not do and KJV puts it like this, “ And the servant of the Lord must not strive” and so that state of peace is required at home, in the office, on the street or in the playground, at church, in the factory and with our neighbour. This verse, by indicating that the pursuit of peace and pursuit of consecration constitute “HOLINESS” clearly states without this we will never see the Lord.

That means that no “COMMON PERSON”, because TO BE HOLY IS TO BE DIFFERENT.

1 Peter 1:15-16                                 But as the One Who called you is holy, you yourselves also be holy in all your conduct and manner of living. For it is written, You shall be holy, for I am holy.  (“You shall be different for I am different”  ..  Comments mine)

 The word of God here clearly defines that Father intends that there is to be no distinction between the holiness of God and the holiness of His people. We cannot understand “HOLINESS” just by the old Testament example or teaching, for the Old Testament does not come up to the full orbit of the truth of the New Testament and our precious gift of the Holy Spirit.

The ideal is clear, and the promise is sure. Its fulfillment is in Christ and the age of the spirit is the apex of the new covenant

The Old Testament is rich in RITUAL

The New Testament is rich in ACTUAL

The omnipresence of the Holy Spirit is intended to assist us to be a holy people. The degree of assistance is spelt-out in John 14 and the munificence of the Lord is proven in the dimensions of his help.

John 14:26                                          But the Comforter (Counselor, Helper, Intercessor, Advocate, Strengthener, Standby), THE HOLY SPIRIT, Whom the Father will send in My name [in My place, to represent Me and act on My behalf], He will TEACH you all things (in Ezekiel this was the task of the priest, to “TEACH”). And He will CAUSE you (again in Ezekiel it was the task priest to “CAUSE to distinguish”) to recall (will remind you of, bring to your remembrance) everything I have told you.

It is frequently convenient to concede that holiness is either the prerogative or the responsibility of only the leadership or some special individual called of God to function in a particular capacity.

Ephesians 1:4                                     Even as [in His love] He chose us [actually picked us out for Himself as His own] in Christ before the foundation of the world, THAT WE SHOULD BE HOLY (CONSECRATED AND SET APART FOR HIM) and blameless in His sight, even above reproach, before Him in love.

Now for many of us, we could be speaking a foreign language, for not only do the principles seem obscure, but the attainment also seems impossible. SO HOW DO WE GO ABOUT IT? Fortunately, the Word does not pose a dilemma and then leave us stranded.

Ephesians 4:23-24                            And be constantly renewed in the spirit of your mind [having a fresh mental and spiritual attitude], And put on the new nature (the regenerate self) created in God’s image, [GODLIKE] IN TRUE RIGHTEOUSNESS AND HOLINESS. (Refer to study “Personality” for some explanation on NATURE)

Ephesians 4 effectively denies us any excuse and takes away any room for commonness, for indeed that “fresh mental and spiritual attitude” is that of a worshiper. The new nature created in God’s image is indeed the holiness which constitutes the personality of God. BUT HOW CAN I BE SURE THAT HE IS SPEAKING DIRECTLY TO ME HOWEVER?

Colossians 3:1 and Verse 12         IF THEN YOU have been raised with Christ [to a new life, thus SHARING His resurrection from the dead], aim at and seek the [rich, eternal treasures] that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.

                                                        V12. CLOTHE YOURSELVES therefore, as GOD’S OWN chosen ones (His own picked representatives), [WHO ARE PURIFIED AND HOLY and well-beloved [by God Himself, by putting on behaviour marked by] tenderhearted pity and mercy, kind feeling, a lowly opinion of yourselves, gentle ways, [and] patience [which is tireless and long-suffering, and has the power to endure whatever comes, with good temper.

 Should we go right back to the beginning of this study to Ezekiel 14:23 you will recall that it was the priest’s job to “TEACH” but now we have the agency of the Holy Spirit so that we may “SURELY LEARN”. Further, it was the priest’s job to “CAUSE THEM TO DISTINGUISH” but here again in Philippians 1:10 it shows the distinct advantage we have as New Testament Christians.

If we have truly “LEARNED” then we will become expert in DIFFERENTIATING that which is holy and that which is profane, that which is sacred from that which is secular and to recognise with great lucidity the clean from the unclean.

Philippians 1:10                                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].

It is easy to become dismayed at the progress we make in attaining to the exhilarating heights of an intimate relationship with our Lord, but it is comforting and reassuring to find that the Word brings a promise that it is not just solely dependent upon our application, but we are given divine assistance.

1 Thessalonians 5:23                      AND MAY THE GOD OF PEACE HIMSELF sanctify you through and through [SEPARATE YOU FROM PROFANE THINGS, make you pure and wholly consecrated (Meaning “HOLY”  ..  comments mine) to God]; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved sound and complete (Notice this promise is for bodily health also  ..  comments mine) [and found] blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah). 

 2 Corinthians 7:1                              THEREFORE, SINCE these [great] promises are ours, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that contaminates and defiles body and spirit, (THE “PROFANE, THE SECULAR, THE UNCLEAN”) and bring [our] consecration to completeness (THE “HOLY” THE SACRED, THE CLEAN”) in the [reverential] fear of God.

 

 

THE RIGHT COURSE ROSS SMITH

THE RIGHT COURSE                                                                                           ROSS SMITH

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To cover this subject adequately requires a much more expansive study than that which I have attempted here. My purpose, however, is;

(A) to encourage body ministry,  (Ephesians 4:16)and

(B) to see that it is “decent and in order”. (1 Corinthians 14:40)

 We are exhorted to “test the spirits” (1 John 4:1) but we frequently fail on two counts.

(1) some people accept unquestioningly what is brought as an inspired message and,

(2) some don’t try the spirit but react to the servant. The former arises from ignorance the latter from arrogance.

Matthew 24:4                                    Jesus answered them, Be careful that no one misleads you [deceiving you and leading you into error].

Every ministry or manifestation must be examined by the proper tests before it is conceded. This is also a “gift” afforded true servants as found in;

1 Corinthians 12:10                         To another the working of miracles, to another prophetic insight (the gift of interpreting the divine will and purpose); TO ANOTHER THE ABILITY TO DISCERN AND DISTINGUISH BETWEEN [THE UTTERANCES OF TRUE] SPIRITS [AND FALSE ONES], to another various kinds of [unknown] tongues, to another the ability to interpret [such] tongues.

As we proceed, we will find all this is based on,

(A) comparing the “gift” against the Word of God, and

(B) and by observing the fruit of the life bringing the ministry.

1 John 4:6                                           We are [children] of God. WHOEVER IS LEARNING to know God [progressively to perceive, recognize, and understand God by observation and experience, and to get an ever-clearer knowledge of Him] listens to us; and he who is not of God does not listen or pay attention to us. BY THIS WE KNOW (RECOGNIZE) THE SPIRIT OF TRUTH AND THE SPIRIT OF ERROR.

We must also exclude “self-righteous indignation” as it is frequently sourced in “silent debate” and is a symptom of our expectations not being met. Consequently, our evaluation of the integrity of a person’s “ministry” is not to be measured by our preconceptions or misconceptions, but by approvals as nominated in God’s Word.  (A revision of  the study, “AVOIDING IGNORANCE” may be useful at this point)

While it is gratifying that the body of Christ is beginning to function individually in ministry, part of which the Bible calls “Psalms, hymns and spiritual songs”, or more widely, ministry. We may need to understand a little more clearly the role of these ministries and to ensure that we are accurately applying the Word of God in the way we operate. Solomon put it into perspective when he wrote;

Proverbs 1:2-3                                   That people may know skillful and godly Wisdom and instruction, DISCERN AND COMPREHEND THE WORDS OF UNDERSTANDING AND INSIGHT, receive instruction in wise dealing and the discipline of wise thoughtfulness, righteousness, justice, and integrity, (Also see Proverbs 3:32)

The apostle Paul expands on this concept to include the gifts of the spirit, but whatever the gift or expression shared, whether psalms, hymns, preaching, teaching, serving et cetera it has to be “constructive and edifying and for the good of all”.

1 Corinthians 14:26                         WHAT THEN, BRETHREN, IS [THE RIGHT COURSE]? When you meet together, EACH ONE has a hymn, a teaching, a disclosure of special knowledge or information, an utterance in a [strange] tongue, or an interpretation of it. [But] let everything be CONSTRUCTIVE AND EDIFYING AND FOR THE GOOD OF ALL.

THE RIGHT COURSE

Now, all that doesn’t seem to be too hard when we see it written on paper but when we come to the actual application and implementation in engaging in “THE RIGHT COURSE” we need to avoid any grey areas. Whilst it is not possible to start in the flesh and end up in the spirit, it is entirely possible that we can start in the spirit and end up in the flesh.

 

 

There is a simple test that can be applied to all spiritual ministry and including the gifts, it is threefold, does not require any academic skill, just sensitivity to the examples found in scripture.

1. Does it glorify Jesus Christ?                         (This is the ultimate purpose)
2. Does it edify the saints?                                (This is a basic requirement)
3. Is it a good witness to nonbelievers?       (Even if they don’t understand)

The apostle John clearly states the condition that attends those who would act in cooperation with the Holy Spirit to bring ministry to the body of Christ when he penned in John 17:17  Sanctify them [purify, consecrate, separate them for Yourself, make them holy] by the Truth; YOUR WORD IS TRUTH. God’s Word is the only thing that is irrefutable, unquestionable and unchangeable and serves to make men holy.

Paul went on to say that there is a fundamental principle to be observed by those who would minister, and that was that they should be thoroughly soaked in the Word of God so richly that the result would be “ministry”. Any ministry must align with the directions of God’s Word, this is the very first requirement, is not just in what we SEE as “ministry” but what we DO as ministry, it has to pervade our every attitude.

Ecclesiastes  9:10(A)                       WHATEVER your hand finds to do, do it with all your might,

Some ministry is obvious, others obscure, some vocalised, others never mentioned, but all are intended for the glory of God, both in their origin and outcome. We may think that the only gifts are those expressed in church, but these are just part of God’s gifting. In Old Testament times, priests and Levites were tasked with a wide range of ministry, even to looking after the “outside work”.

Nehemiah 11:16                               And Shabbethai and Jozabad, of the chiefs of the Levites, who had charge of the OUTSIDE WORK of the house of God;

The people nominated in Nehemiah were not just labourers, they were “chiefs of the Levite’s”, and their “ministry” would appear to be manual, frequently regarded by the church as a task and not a “ministry”. There is still “manual labour” in the administration of God’s house, maybe not as onerous as in Old Testament times, but still ministry to the Lord.

Colossians 3:16                                 Let THE WORD [spoken by] Christ (the Messiah) HAVE ITS HOME [in your hearts and minds] and dwell in you in [all its] RICHNESS, as you teach and admonish and train one another in all insight and intelligence and wisdom [in spiritual things, and as you sing] psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, making melody to God with [His] grace in your hearts.

Notice “THE WORD” is the very first requirement of Colossians 3:16 and consequently is a pre-requisite for all that follows in this critical verse. The Word must be “at home” and therefore any other source of information, be it spiritual or secular can become an obstruction and an intrusion of the Word’s domicile. The “WORD” is the primary government of our thoughts, our meditation, our contemplation. It should be from our soaking in the Word we bring the “water of life” (John 4:14)

 What we read, listen to, ponder, directly affects our ministry and Psalm 109:18 speaks to the dilemma of the unregenerate and crystallises it neatly in verse 18 as to how it “seeped into his inward [life] like water, and like oil into his bones.” When we study the Word it is important we don’t get distracted, not so much by people and events as we can handle that, but often we can get distracted by all the available resources. Commentaries can be contradictory, publications polluted, comments contorted but the Word of God remains unchangeable. It is the only reliable measuring stick for ministry.

1 Corinthians 14:1 – 19 provides precise directions in matters relating to the gifts of the spirit and is well worth deep contemplation and adoption.

For the Word to “dwell in all its richness” means that we have to mine the depths by the intense and constant study to the exclusion of all the overburden of popular sources which may meet our fancy, be it books, DVD’s, religious TV programs, or some individual we respect. The Word has to be “Hid in our hearts” (Psalm 119:11)

The first thing we need to do when we believe Father has shared something with us by the Holy Spirit is to see that it is wholly consistent with the Word of God. Anything we bring as a study or exhortation must have C.A.R.S (2 Timothy 2:15, “Carefully analyzing, Accurately handling, Rightly dividing, Skillfully teaching) thoroughly applied as a blowtorch to eliminate any self or solicitation in the gift. Also, notice that it is “THE WORD” which differentiates it from “A WORD”, which sometimes may be the expression of our favourite TV evangelist, or an author has tended to colour our thinking or captured our attention. Conversely “A word” can also be comfort, consolation, encouragement but again, is always consistent with “THE Word”.

1 Thessalonians 2:3-4                     For our appeal [in preaching] does not [originate] from delusion or error or impure purpose or motive, nor in fraud or deceit. But just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the glad tidings (the Gospel), SO WE SPEAK NOT TO PLEASE MEN BUT TO PLEASE GOD, Who tests our hearts [expecting them to be approved].

THE LORD’S ASSESSMENT IS BASED ON OUR MOTIVES, THE ATTITUDE OF OUR HEARTS, NOT ON OUR ACTIONS.

Psalm 25:14                                        The secret [of the sweet, satisfying companionship] of the Lord have they who fear (revere and worship) Him, and He will show them His covenant and reveal to them its [deep, inner] meaning

The outcome of Psalm 24:4 depends on the compliance, our “fear and reverent worship”, which expels any chance of offence to the Lord. Scripture reinforces this position when it differentiates between “THE WORD and “A WORD”, as recorded in Acts and establishing that “THE WORD” takes precedence over all else.

Acts 13:15                                            AFTER the reading of the LAW AND THE PROPHETS, (The “Word of God” in this dispensation   …   comments mine) the leaders of the worship of the synagogue sent to them saying, Brethren, IF (The “IF” implies that there is the potential for uncertainty, it is a “conditional conjunction) you have “ANY WORD” of exhortation or consolation or encouragement for the people, say it.

Spiritual gifts, sometimes called “talents” are evidence of God’s grace working through our lives to benefit others. Our gifts are not for us. God intends us to use them for the good of His church. “My gift is for you; your gift is for Me.”

It is important to recognise God-given abilities outside of the gifts of the spirit and the ministry gifts, and the example in Exodus 35 provides a stunning illumination of “manual ministry”, and the attached importance both for the sanctuary and the saints. Although I digress here from the spiritual functions under consideration, manual ministries should not be dismissed.

Exodus 35:30-35                               And Moses said to the Israelites, See, the Lord called by name Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah; And HE HAS FILLED HIM with the Spirit of God, with ability and wisdom, with intelligence and understanding, and with knowledge and all craftsmanship, To devise artistic designs, to work in gold, silver, and bronze, In cutting of stones for setting, and in carving of wood, for work in every skilled craft. And God has put in Bezalel’s heart that he may teach, both he and Aholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan. HE HAS FILLED THEM with wisdom of heart and ability to do all manner of craftsmanship, of the engraver, of the skillful workman, of the embroiderer in blue, purple, and scarlet [stuff] and in fine linen, and of the weaver, even of those who do or design any skilled work.

And although these particular talents may not be required in today’s church, there are those who still “minister” in very practical ways, and if the attitude of the individual is aligned to honour the Lord in the way they discharge that responsibility then it qualifies as “let everything be constructive and edifying and for the good of all.”

We need to recognise the “constructive and edifying” components and realise that they are for our good. Whilst these may not be called “spiritual gifts” because do not involve expressions of faith and they are not aiming to strengthen faith, they are still service unto the Lord, carried out in obedience.

The second important point is that whatever we bring is required to “teach, admonish and train one another” and can be just one of these or all three but not limited, as often there is a word of comfort or consolation, and Romans 12:8 expands the dimensions quite significantly.

I frequently reflect on the apostle Paul and the extent of the subjects he covered, the eloquence of the language, and the precision of the detail. I am not sure that he would be particularly happy with the way Scripture is presented in many instances today as the “attention to detail” is lacking, and adherence to the Holy Writ is manipulated to suit the occasion. This unequivocally requires that we are positively aligned with scriptural principles and avoid the potential for “a little leaven leavening the loaf”.

It requires that attention to detail and precision demanded of Moses when he built the tabernacle and Solomon when he built the Temple. Slovenliness or sloppiness or shoddiness is a blatant reproach against the Lord.

Two observations, notice that we teach and admonish ONE ANOTHER but we make melody in our heart TO THE LORD. We need to understand that “making melody” is different to “making harmony”, which is the intended purpose of the gifts.

Those who engage in the secularisation of the church are under the misconception that they are making the church “suitable” or “relevant” to current times. On one hand, they succeed, by neutering the fire and the hammer of the Word of God designed to refine and define what Father intended the church to be.

On the other hand, they have failed miserably, for so many “have a form of godliness but deny the power thereof” (Timothy 3:5) and the suitability they achieve will make aliens of the kingdom of heaven. The times have certainly changed but the Word of God has never changed, and never requires “updates”.

 

The third thing is that whatever we bring must contain “INSIGHT, INTELLIGENCE, AND WISDOM”. Now, this may not mean that all three are required in every instance, but it does require that there is that incontrovertible stamp of the divine clearly intelligible in what we have to share. KJV uses only one word, “Wisdom”, but the Greek word “Sophia” means “the insight into the true nature of things”, and so confirms the expansion of the Amplified version. Whatever the particular gift we bring must have one dominating an underlying characteristic, that is, IT MUST GLORIFY GOD.

We have been, for decades, exposed to those ministry aspects addressed by the apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 14, not always with the clarity intended by the Lord, but we understand the role of preaching/teaching and the operation of several specific gifts of the spirit, and as yet we so frequently fail to make ourselves available for these particular gifts.

Of great concern is the concentration on the vocal gifts at the expense of the other spiritual dimensions such as the revelation gifts and the power gifts. It is confronting that the vocal gifts are more prone to misuse or abuse and consequently GREAT DISCERNMENT IS REQUIRED. To a lesser degree, the revelation gifts are also misused, particularly when an individual allegedly has “a word from the Lord” for another individual, and it is not subject to the scrutiny of the church at large.

The power gifts are not excluded, and the enemy today is making the occult a sought-after recreation simply because of the paranormal appeal to men’s curiosity. We have a classic example of Moses before Pharaoh and the wise men and sorcerers, and the Egyptian magicians replicated the event.

DISCERNMENT DOES NOT ALWAYS REQUIRE DISCLOSURE, BUT ALWAYS REQUIRES DISCRETION.

Proverbs 1:4                                       That prudence may be given to the simple, and KNOWLEDGE, DISCRETION, AND DISCERNMENT to the youth

Proverbs 2:11                                    DISCRETION shall watch over you, UNDERSTANDING shall keep you,

Proverbs 5:2                                       That you may EXERCISE PROPER DISCRIMINATION AND DISCRETION and your lips may guard and keep knowledge and the wise answer [to temptation].

“UNDERSTANDING” is the ability to discern between two or more things and as Proverbs points out, they go together like a hand in glove. Job calls it a “Vital Force” which is afforded us by the Almighty (Job 32:8) The word “discrimination” used in Proverbs 5:2 has the same meaning as “understanding”.

We must follow “THE RIGHT COURSE “ as the whole body has not been operating to its full potential and so the ministry has been left to a few individuals. We now understand however that every member has an obligation firstly to the Lord and secondly to the body to operate as 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]”.  (Ephesians 4:16)

 NOT EVERYONE IS CALLED TO BE A TEACHER, BUT EVERYONE IS CALLED TO BE AN EXAMPLE.

A further consideration we need to make when bringing something to share is to ascertain whether the matter is for sharing publicly or was it meant specifically for me. If Father is not speaking to us constantly, daily, and correcting and directing my daily activity, I have to ask why He would choose to give me a “one-off” for a public meeting if I was unreceptive to his personal daily dealings. A good test is if my daily journal reflects if I am developing in God and the directions He is providing.

So, what constitutes a “Psalm, hymn, spiritual song, or disclosure of special knowledge or information”. The latter may include what we see as an exhortation or as described in Colossians 3:16 as “admonish and train”.

David, et al, gave us a good handbook on what a Psalm looks like, the authors compiling some 150 chapters covering myriad aspects of life.

The Hebrew title of the book of Psalms is “Tehillim”, literally, “PRAISES,” OR “BOOK OF PRAISES” but also included are prayers, confessions, poems, some mournful while others are jubilant.  The vigour and depth of devotion recorded in the Psalms serve to stimulate and inflame our hearts to join in the sentiments with deeper affection and zeal and consequently to elevate us to spiritual heights and reach the potential Father intends.

Unlike psalms, hymns are not generally written by spontaneous divine inspiration of the Holy Spirit but by contemplation and meditation and are not considered part of Scripture. The term spiritual songs is a more general description. Scripture indicates the songs  we bring must be “spiritual,” that is, the songs of the church deal with spiritual themes.

No less is expected of those Psalms, hymns and spiritual songs, exhortations, studies, revelations that we bring, they will consist of various themes and observations, but central to every one of them should be the recognition and acknowledgement of God Himself and the improvement of the body of Christ.

The difficulty exists because there are “DIFFERENT GIFTS” and they are manifested by “DIFFERENT PEOPLE” and so the “DIFFERENCES” of the individual often become obvious in the expression or manifestation of the gift. The comforting component it is that though there are differences in the gifts and different vessels it is the one and same God who gives these gifts. But the authenticity of the expression, whatever it is, must be supported by the evidence of fruit in the life of the Minister/s.

Ephesians 4:8                                     Therefore it is said, When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive [He led a train of vanquished foes] and He bestowed gifts on men.

1 Corinthians 12:4-7                        Now there are distinctive varieties and distributions of endowments (gifts, extraordinary powers distinguishing certain Christians, due to the power of divine grace operating in their souls by the Holy Spirit) and they vary, but the [Holy] Spirit remains the same. And there are distinctive varieties of service and ministration, but it is the same Lord [Who is served]. And there are distinctive varieties of operation [of working to accomplish things], but it is the same God Who inspires and energizes them all in all.  BUT TO EACH ONE IS GIVEN THE MANIFESTATION OF THE [HOLY] SPIRIT [THE EVIDENCE, THE SPIRITUAL ILLUMINATION OF THE SPIRIT] FOR GOOD AND PROFIT.

The “ILLUMINATION” spoken of here is that also referred to in;

Psalm 119:130                                   THE ENTRANCE AND UNFOLDING OF YOUR WORDS GIVE LIGHT; their unfolding gives understanding (discernment and comprehension) to the simple.

The focus is on the Godhead, not on the gifts.  The focus is on what God is doing in the group, not on people’s particular passions, or bents, and simply determined by “IS IT GOD GLORIFYING”? One word of caution, however, the enemy is very subtle and knows the Word intimately and we need to be alert to the nuances which will misconstrue the truth.

 

 

 

 

VICTOR OR VICTIM ROSS SMITH

VICTOR OR VICTIM                                                                               ROSS SMITH  

ALL REFERENCES FROM AMPLIFIED VERSION UNLESS NOTED

The Bible is crammed full of references spelling out the victorious dimensions in which Father intends us to live and luxuriate and yet so many Christians today are seemingly incapable of rising above either their current circumstances or their previous experiences, and their mind is frozen in the “victim mentality” that marauds their peace and joy and victory.

Just so I can set a platform for where we are going let me bring to our recall two scriptures which unequivocally nominate what we are and who it is due to.

Romans 8:37                                      Yet AMID all these things WE ARE MORE THAN CONQUERORS and gain a surpassing victory through Him Who loved us.

1 Corinthians 15:57                         But thanks be to God, Who gives us the victory [MAKING US CONQUERORS] through our Lord Jesus Christ.  (DONOR- DESIGNER)

I am bold enough to suggest that the “Victim Mentality” has its origins and consequences securely grounded in the “I, my, me, mine, want, wish, wallow” syndrome. This particular “SELF” syndrome provides adequate accommodation for resentment, offence, avarice, silent debate, recriminations, criticisms and myriad other carnal appetites which only serve to contradict the Word of God, to confuse the unsure, to `pollute the purposes of those lacking dedication, and spreads its infection as a pandemic where the Word of God does not have precedence.

All of us have predispositions which we either attribute to our upbringing, our education or lack thereof, experiences we have been called to pass through or even a morbid fear cultivated by an inferiority complex, as well as triumphs we have made, tests which we have passed, and attainments reached.

Whilst society will refer those suffering this “victim” malaise to psychologists and psychiatrists in an attempt to manipulate their thinking patterns, the Bible becomes very precise in describing the route that leads to the victorious state freely offered us by God himself.

Hebrews 13:5                                    LET your character or moral disposition be free from love of money [including greed, avarice, lust, and craving for earthly possessions] and BE SATISFIED with your present [circumstances and with what you have]; for HE [GOD] HIMSELF has said, I will not in any way fail you nor give you up nor leave you without support. [I will] not, [I will] not, [I will] not in any degree leave you helpless nor forsake nor let [you] down (relax My hold on you)! [Assuredly not!]  (4 X)

So, I hear you ask, “where do we start in order to stop being a classic victim?”

One of the major contributions to becoming a “VICTIM” is the propensity to look back over history, at things which can never be retrieved, and this only serves to halt our progress. The Bible says, “try to learn in your experience” (Ephesians 5:10) Too many continue to “LIVE in that experience” instead of “LEARNING by that experience”. It is not our circumstances that define us, but it is our ATTITUDE.

Another name for “Victim Mentality” is “Feeling sorry for oneself”. In both cases, the genesis is in previous experience. We can either get bitter or we get better. It’s that simple. We either take what has been dealt to us and allow it to make us a better person, or we allow it to tear us down. (Luke 9:62   looking back”)

The choice does not belong to fate, it belongs to me.

Obviously, by the comments made by Paul when writing to the Philippians, nominates that there is more to perceiving oneself as a victim outside of the circumstances which we attempt to use as an excuse or reason for the way we think or behave. THIS FURTHER INITIATOR WOULD APPEAR TO BE A HUGE STREAK OF PRIDE.

Philippians 2:5                                   Let this same ATTITUDE and PURPOSE and [HUMBLE] MIND be in you which was in Christ Jesus: [Let Him be your example in humility:]

Our attitude and intention are to be deeply submerged in humility, the sort of humility that Jesus exhibited, and I do not recall anywhere in Scripture that Jesus allowed any incident to define him as a “VICTIM”.

VICTORS ARE RESPONSIBLE, VICTIMS ARE REACTIVE.

“Humility” is a very rare commodity due to the competitive nature of humanity, and which is also evidenced in the animal kingdom. Not only are the fauna competitive but also the flora, as we observe weeds and vines aggressively competing for space. If anyone had occasion to feel like a victim it was Jesus, so we need to think like He did in his humanity. If we fail to apply this principle, we are disobedient.

Our previous behaviour cannot be blamed on anyone else (see study, “Personality” for details). We choose to be either a VICTOR or VICTIM, just like we choose to work or not. Some people go to work so that they honour the Lord in what they do and to enjoy the outcome, others go to work and claim they have to work to pay the bills – one is a productive attitude, the other a destructive attitude.

The apostle Peter had obviously come in contact with people who had been the brunt of criticism and abuse and nominated the reasons why these people could rise above their hurts and offences, their disappointments and disillusions and to enjoy a lifestyle only possible from a divine origin. He said, “If you are censured and suffer abuse [because you bear] the name of Christ,” (1 Peter 4:14 (a).   (Read on for the result)

WE HAVEN’T BEEN HERE YET!!!

If you think that this is an unreasonable proposition then a review of the life of Jesus will give us plenty of examples where and how He responded all His life to the most unimaginable insults and maltreatment. Even when he stood before Pilate and his colleagues, who cast groundless aspersions and accusations against Him, He found it unnecessary to attempt to vindicate Himself.

But Peter had prefaced this principle in verse 12 when he said that the things that we consider perverse are perfectly normal, so recognise the purpose and “GET OVER IT”. “Beloved, do not be amazed and bewildered at the fiery ordeal which is taking place to test your quality, as though something strange (unusual and alien to you and your position) were befalling you.” (1 Peter 4:12)

Matthew 27:13-14                           Then Pilate said to Him, (Jesus)  Do You not hear how many and how serious are the things they are testifying against You?  But He made no reply to him, not even to a single accusation, so that the governor marvelled greatly.

Peter went on to say in verse 14, and probably not to everybody’s liking, that it is “REGARDLESS OF YOUR OUTWARD CONDITION” you can be “envied, full of joy and satisfied in God’s favour and salvation.” Does that not completely disenfranchise any excuse we might harbour that would provide any accommodation for a “victim mentality” or feeling sorry for oneself, and if we would contend with this proposal then again, we need to reconsider our eternal security. A victor sees the opportunity for growth, the victim sees only the effort required.

The great thing about being a victor is that we can be confident of being on the winning side. And having the Lord on our side takes a lot of the stress out of the things we face or have faced. Paul was an expert in this area and he tells us that if we are prepared to let Him lead then He will achieve the result.

2 Corinthians 2:14                            But thanks be to God, WHO IN CHRIST ALWAYS LEADS US IN TRIUMPH [as trophies of Christ’s victory] and through us spreads and makes evident the fragrance of the knowledge of God everywhere, (Or “nice to be near”   …   comments mine)

What we see in “circumstance and view as “bad things” are actually “good things in disguise.”  John also gets in on the act because he also prescribes the attitude we need to adopt to become “VICTORS”, and although we well know the route, we must ensure we walk the route. If we claim we are “born again” then John says we ARE “victorious over the world”. Is this your experience, or are you still wallowing in the wilderness of a victim and full of self-pity? It doesn’t get much better than what John portrays in

1 John 5:4-5                                        For whatever is born of God is victorious over the world; and this is the victory that CONQUERS THE WORLD, even our faith. Who is it that is victorious over [that conquers] the world but HE WHO BELIEVES that Jesus is the Son of God [who adheres to, trusts in, and relies on that fact]?

Notice it all comes down to choice, the same sort of choice that Joshua offered the Israelites, he reminded them of the disasters of Egypt, but gives the people the opportunity to decide if they want to be the VICTIM OR VICTOR, he says to them “choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve,”  (Joshua 24:15 B)

TO BE THANKFUL RATHER THAN TO COMPLAIN TAKES A CONSCIOUS ACT OF THE WILL AND A SACRIFICE OF NATURAL DESIRES

There is further insurance against falling into the trap of a “Victim”, and it is so very simple. Unfortunately, it is not a habit promoted or practiced widely, other than as a salve for the conscience by applying minimum effort. The bible states very clearly the remedy for “Victim mentality”.

Psalm 119:165                                   GREAT PEACE have they WHO LOVE YOUR LAW; NOTHING SHALL OFFEND THEM OR MAKE THEM STUMBLE

Now that we have been made aware that if we are offended or find some other occasion to feel victimised, or to feel sorry for our self, then the Psalmist said we need to engage in much more concentrated and intense reading and study of God’s word.

This is more than the quick scan of a few verses as we leave the house, or a “quick pick” from a promised box, or even the daily verse downloaded from the Internet. Until we have a deep appreciation and commitment to the Word of God, feeding on it daily and sustaining our spirit then we risk choosing to be a victim. We will have eternity to celebrate the “VICTORIES” but only a few hours before sunset to win them. (Amy Carmichael)

“Victimisation” is a mental attitude and can develop into a mental illness. It can become an addiction and the conventional/medical “fix” is to find something or someone to blame. The “fix” feels good until it wears off. If we as Christians are free of the taint Adam introduced, why then do we accommodate some insignificant individuals attempt to taint our life?

If Adam’s influence has been aborted, overturned and we have been made victorious by Calvary, why should I allow Joe Bloggs to have any influence on my victorious life by his inappropriate comments or attitudes? We just need to ignore the imposters, the bullies, the loudmouth, the unspiritual carnal minded, and live in the victory of the one who disenfranchised “Victim Mentality” by total acceptance of every inhospitable circumstance as a point to prove that we know that God is in control.

It doesn’t matter how unloved, defeated, disliked, abandoned, sidelined et cetera you feel, lift up your shield of faith and “QUENCH” the fiery darts, the “Falarica” (see note below) which is just rubbish set on fire and hurled at us by the enemy. Just don’t deflect it, quench it. Fiery darts are anything that discourages or distracts us in our walk with God.

Every person has a call on their life, every person contains, often latently, that instinct for excellence described as “spiritual man”. We must at all costs divorce that mentality where we are frozen in mediocrity and succumb to the average. We must “cultivate the best gifts”. (1 Corinthians 12:31)

SELAH

 

NOTE.                   The FALARICA was a heavy javelin with a long, thin iron head of about 90 centimetres in length (almost 3 feet) attached to a wooden shaft of about equal length. (making it a 6 foot long weapon) The iron head had a narrow sharp tip, which made the Falarica an excellent armour-piercing weapon. The Iberians used to bind combustible material called “tow” to the metal shaft of the weapon and use the FALARICA as an incendiary projectile. The incendiary javelin would hit the shields or siege works of the enemy often setting them ablaze.

This is the example used to represent the “fiery darts of the evil one”, those provocations intended to derail our walk with the Lord.