GRACEFUL EDUCATION ROSS SMITH

GRACEFUL EDUCATION                                                                                                                                                                                                                   ROSS SMITH

ALL REFERENCES FROM THE AMPLIFIED VERSION UNLESS NOTED

 

My concepts and understanding of GOD’S GRACE are continually being updated and enlarged, and Titus comes to my aid in understanding a little more of the breadth and depth of “GOD’S GRACE“. But before we go there, recall what Peter said about our state and our ministry because we not only have been endowed with gifts but have also been entrusted with responsibilities through GRACE.

Paul has underpinned this principle of “Trust” and “Test” concerning our gifts, stating, “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]. (1 Thessalonians 2:4)

1 Peter 4:10                                        As each of you has received a gift (a particular spiritual talent, a gracious divine endowment), employ it (Or put it to good use, and develop it …  comments mine) for one another as [befits] good TRUSTEES of God’s MANY-SIDED GRACE [faithful stewards of the extremely diverse powers and gifts granted to Christians by unmerited favour].

Titus 2:11 describes God’s grace as “His unmerited favour and blessing”, and I think this is the concept that we hold most of the time when we are thankful for His grace. Indeed, the verse goes on to say that God’s grace is for the “deliverance from sin and the eternal salvation of mankind”. Can we grasp the enormity of this benefit?

Titus 2:11                                            For the grace of God (His unmerited favour and blessing) has come forward (appeared) FOR THE DELIVERANCE FROM SIN and the eternal salvation for all mankind. (“Deliverance from sin” by virtue of God’s grace is to be educated as to what is required to be restored from a fallen state …  comments mine)

Even that one verse is sufficient stimulus to cause us to pause and be reflective, explode in gratitude, and luxuriate in our potential.

But grace is much more than that, according to verse 12. GRACE IS EDUCATIONAL, for Titus says, “it has TRAINED US” and dare I add, “and continues to train us”. When looking at the implications of the word “TRAINED“, Matthew says in 13:52 “, every teacher interpreter of the sacred writings who has been INSTRUCTED ABOUT AND TRAINED for the kingdom of heaven.

Titus 2:12                                            IT (Grace) HAS TRAINED US to reject and renounce all ungodliness (irreligion) and worldly (passionate) desires, to live discreet (temperate, self-controlled), upright, devout (spiritually whole) lives in this present world,

This “Training in Grace” has a twofold effect, firstly to preserve or to “Reject” and secondly to promote, to “Live”.

Luke, in 6:40, talks about the people who study God’s Word, and he says, “when he (The student) has been COMPLETELY TRAINED readjusted restored set to right and perfected will be like his teacher.”

Luke 6:40                                             A pupil is not superior to his teacher, BUT everyone [when he is] COMPLETELY TRAINED (readjusted, restored, set to rights, and perfected) will be like his teacher.By paraphrasing Luke, we can say that when grace abounds in a person’s life in the manner God intends, there will be CONFORMITY.   This is where the extent of Grace begins to take on a whole new dimension, for when the “TRAINING” is “COMPLETE“, that is, our ability to be AWARE, to ADHERE, to TRUST and RELY has been thoroughly tested and proven.

I know you are already doing the maths; this involves not only the gracious gift of salvation that we have understood and appreciated but now stretches the miracle of “GOD’S MANY-SIDED GRACE” into unexpected quarters. (See 1 Peter 4:10)

Further, Hebrews 5:14 says that we can only imbibe the solid food of the Word where our senses and mental faculties are TRAINED to distinguish between what is morally good and noble. (A reinforcement of Titus 2:12)

Does that not mean that our CONSCIENCE, that unerring and oft unwelcome prompt or goad, has been honed and refined to a whole new level of sensitivity?  And it comes by TRAINING or DISCIPLINE.

“DISCIPLINE” is a significant component of the “conforming process” we are undergoing, not as an unfortunate encounter or event or circumstance, but as a vital element of GOD’S MANY-SIDED GRACE.

Hebrews 12:11 indicates that DISCIPLINE is often not pleasant, but it yields “the peaceable fruits of righteousness TO THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN TRAINED BY IT,” and so I must deduce that God’s GRACE is also part and parcel of his DISCIPLINE, His “sovereign selection” of things we must patiently endure with steadfastness if we are to be the recipients of all God’s GRACEFUL EDUCATION.

If we go back to the Old Testament, Isaiah 30:18 says that “the Lord earnestly waits expecting looking and longing to be GRACIOUS to you”, or in the context of Titus 2:12, HE IS ANXIOUS TO TRAIN US. We will not comprehend this vital truth until we sit and contemplate the implications of Isaiah 30:18, for there are so many nuances as to the outcome of Father’s intervention as outlined in this one verse.

Isaiah 30:18  (A)                                And THEREFORE the Lord [earnestly] waits [expecting, looking, and longing] TO BE GRACIOUS TO YOU, and THEREFORE He lifts Himself up, that He may have mercy on you and show loving-kindness to you.

Let me retrace for a moment. The “THEREFORE” in verse 18 is vital, for verses 15-17 point up the unwillingness of the people to be “TRAINED”. The Lord has made a comprehensive offer to the people in verse 15 but concludes, “BUT YOU WOULD NOT.” Even under the state of their rebellious and hardened hearts, Father continues to extend His Grace, “And THEREFORE the Lord [earnestly] waits [expecting, looking, and longing] TO BE GRACIOUS TO YOU”.

I must ask myself,  do I object to the mentoring by grace? This “TRAINING” is of such consequence that it enables us to “reject and renounce all ungodliness, irreligion and worldly passionate desires with the consequence that we will then live discreet, temperate, self-controlled lives.

So, firstly GRACE ENABLES us to REJECT the licentious, but more than that enables us to REFLECT that rejuvenating light in the circumstances and events. It is designed and determined to elevate us by the EDUCATIONAL ABILITIES OF GRACE so that we can LEARN TO BE CONTENT IN WHATSOEVER STATE WE ARE FOUND. (Philippians 4:11)

The cliché society embraces, “there but by the grace of God, go I”, is a puerile expression used by people who do not understand or appreciate the far reaches of God’s grace, who are unreceptive of His dealings, and as a consequence, fail to appropriate the riches of heaven offer to man.

Hebrews 12:15                                  Exercise foresight and be on the watch to look [after one another], to SEE THAT NO ONE FALLS BACK FROM AND FAILS TO SECURE GOD’S GRACE (His unmerited favour and spiritual blessing), in order that no root of resentment (rancour, bitterness, or hatred) shoots forth and causes trouble and bitter torment, and the many become contaminated and defiled by it—

I ask myself, how is it possible to “FAIL THE GRACE OF GOD”? Grace, because the way it is taught today, is a somewhat ambiguous term. There is much abuse of the term today, and it is misunderstood. Many people see grace as God’s permissiveness for us to do whatever we want to do, free of consequence.

People tritely quote, “I am not under law but under grace”, but vigorously and vociferously object to situations and circumstances encountered, which are the disciplines Father uses to TRAIN US BY HIS GRACE. This attitude evidences ignorance or a lack of “TRAINING”.

The pain and trouble we experience are not a sign of the sternness of God but the love of God. Hebrews 12:6 says, “Those whom the Lord loves He DISCIPLINES.” Or in other words, “HE EDUCATES US BY HIS GRACE” Our persecution is not a sign of God’s treating us as enemies but as sons. Verse 7 says, “It is for discipline that you endure; God deals with you as with sons.” Our suffering is not meaningless but designed for our good and our holiness, our “CONFORMITY”.

Hebrews 12:10: “HE DISCIPLINES US FOR OUR GOOD, THAT WE MAY SHARE HIS HOLINESS.”

 Hebrews 12:7                                    YOU MUST submit to and endure [correction] for DISCIPLINE; God is DEALING with you as with SONS. For what son is there whom his father does not [thus] TRAIN and CORRECT AND DISCIPLINE?

The implications of this verse make interesting reading,

1. Sons Only by Grace
2. Discipline Out of love (V6)
3. Gods’ dealings Circumstances
4. Train Education
5. Correct and discipline

The introduction to this verse says, “YOU MUST”, and without this, there is no progress. If we are not experiencing “correction and discipline”, then we are not sons.

Proverbs 3:11-12                              My son, do not despise or shrink from the chastening of the Lord [His correction by punishment or by subjection to suffering or trial]; neither be weary of or impatient about or loathe or abhor His reproof, (V

This “Education” comes in many forms,

1. The challenge of the Word
2. The circumstances of the moment
3. The encouragement by others
4. the pressure of “ESP”, Endurance, Steadfastness, Patience

 

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ACCEPTABLE AMBITION OR PLEASING GOD ROSS SMITH

ACCEPTABLE AMBITION or PLEASING GOD                              ROSS SMITH

 ALL REFERENCES FROM THE AMPLIFIED VERSION UNLESS NOTED

Probably, for as long as I can recall, the challenge to be ambitious has been ringing down the halls of time in strident terms and with extravagant emphasis, whether it be in sport, commerce, academia, politics, military, and blatantly distorted in spiritual terms to mean “numbers” or posteriors on pews.

Then I ponder why men such as President Trump would expend their lives to reach what they see as the apex of prestige and achievement, only to be faced day in and day out with scrutiny of every aspect of his life, and frequently by unscrupulous media and voyeur commentators who seek to terminate his office.

When I was small, I was counselled that when in situations where I needed direction to ask myself, “What would Jesus do?” But this left the answer open to diverse opportunities and interpretations often fuelled by selfish wants or wishes. I now see that there is a far better question that is much more accurate and will provide a clearer result, that question is, “DOES IT PLEASE GOD?” We have both our conscience and God’s Word to determine the correct route.

The question “what would Jesus do” is in most instances a rhetorical question. The person posing the question is speculating as generally, they will have no idea what Jesus would do in that circumstance. It comes into the same category as the checkout chick asking, “how are you”, she doesn’t want to know it is just “SMALL TALK”.

When I was a child, I knew without question what pleased or displeased my father, I did not have to stop and pose a question except, if I displeased him, how dire will be the consequences? Children like to please their parents.

Matthew 18:3                                    And said, Truly I say to you, unless you repent (change, turnabout) and become like little children [trusting, lowly, loving, forgiving], you can never enter the kingdom of heaven [at all].

As Christians, we need to determine if it is proper for us to be ambitious, to what degree and for what result. It has been suggested we should be “AMBITIOUS TO NOT BE AMBITIOUS”, but that then erodes the injunctions of scripture to be wholehearted in whatever our hand finds to do. (Ecclesiastes 9:10)

 Romans 8:13 says, in paraphrase, “if our ambition is self-centred, we will die”.

Even today as we look across the church, we see men who are promoting themselves as paragons of leadership, proud of the fact that they have large congregations, several branch churches, multimillion-dollar turnover, and are strutting the stage of the church world instead of kneeling in the pulpit. There is, however, one overriding and acceptable ambition identified by the apostle Paul.

2 Corinthians 5:9                              Therefore, whether we are at home [on earth away from Him] or away from home [and with Him], we are constantly ambitious and strive earnestly TO BE PLEASING TO HIM.

The Apostle Paul puts things into perspective in 2 Corinthians 5:9 in several ways, let me summarise.

1. Alive or dead =             Everything else is superfluous
2. Ambition                 =             Concentrated effort, “strive earnestly”
3. Motivation =             Supreme aim, (V10) “examine your motives” (See 2 Corinthians 5:10)

The synonyms for “AMBITION” are numerous, such as:

“Aspiration, intention, goal, aim, objective, object, purpose, intent, plan, scheme, mission, calling, vocation, desire, wish, design, target, end, dream, hope.”

The KJV Bible uses the term “Wherefore we labour,” (or whatever our aim, goal, purpose) but when we begin to recognise and appreciate the “INCONCEIVABLE GREATNESS” of our Lord then everything becomes a pleasure, a compelling AMBITION, an endless pursuit with the motivation “TO BE PLEASING TO HIM.”

But the word “Labour” used in this context is not so much toil but the original means “To be fond of honour, from a love of honour to strive to bring something to pass.” The word means both to be diligent to attain the honour and expresses the INTENT of being honoured by pleasing God. It is in fact,

“MOTION IS ENERGISED BY MOTIVE”

It is not a random effort, it does not happen overnight, it requires what we call “ESP,” ENDURANCE STEADFASTNESS, and PATIENCE. Scripture abounds in examples of how this is achieved, and we all know the scenarios well, all of which demand the expenditure of “ESP.”

• A race
• A battle
• A crop
• An illness
• An isolation — just to name a few, and you can associate the relevant scriptures to your notes.

AMBITION will overcome ADVERSITY. Proverbs 24:10 points up that if we “faint in adversity we have little strength.” Adversity is inevitable, it is intended to evaluate our strengths. not to sap our strength but to increase it. AMBITION will be reinforced by RESOLVE and will be further fortified as we accept Father’s control of our circumstances.

But Paul’s perception was that whether we are dead or alive, the ambition is singular, life is just a mere trifle so that nothing, particularly in this life and world is of any comparable consequence. When we consider the duration of our life, “a wisp of vapour, a puff of smoke, a mist,” (James 4:14) then the urgency of attaining what is recommended becomes a stark reality.

There is a confronting aspect of Paul’s assertions. By nature, we are subject to the opinions and criticisms of other people, but all that is off the table when our “AMBITION” is to please the Lord.

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 with men, I should not be a bondservant of Christ (the Messiah).

1 Thessalonians 2:4                         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 (our attitude or motives) [expecting them to be approved]. (Testing our “hearts” is the same as testing our attitude or motives)

All of this is great in theory, but without the implementation of the principle, there is no EXPERIENCE and consequently no UNDERSTANDING. The cost of this “AMBITION” will be telling, for to please God is the antithesis of what the world, and much of the church, expect of us.

1 John 3:22                                         And we receive from Him whatever we ask, BECAUSE (This is the key to successfully asking …  comments mine) we [watchfully] obey His orders [observe His suggestions and injunctions, follow His plan for us] and [habitually] practice (Until it becomes a habit …  comments mine) WHAT IS PLEASING TO HIM. (See also Colossians 1:10)

 Colossians 1:10                                 That you may walk (live and conduct yourselves) in a manner worthy of the Lord, FULLY pleasing to Him and desiring to please Him in all things, bearing fruit in every good work and steadily GROWING AND INCREASING in and by the knowledge of God [with fuller, deeper, and clearer insight, acquaintance, and recognition]. (In other words, “ACKNOWLEDGEMENT” (A study on this will follow)

It is pointless in trying to justify our position or vindicate our beliefs because the world’s concepts of “AMBITION” are distorted to be “all things to all men” whether it be a common creed, gender fluidity,  unity through diversity, common bathrooms for the scientifically confused, blending of denomination, bending to coercion, the world will give no quarter to “those who would live Godly.” (2 Timothy 3:12)

 Jude 1:10                                             But these men revile (scoff and sneer at) anything they do not happen to be acquainted with and do not understand; (This comes into the classification of “DELUSION” and Ephesians 4:22 says, in paraphrase, “Delusion if the cause of corrupt lusts and desires)  and whatever they do understand physically [that which they know by mere instinct], like irrational beasts–by these they corrupt themselves and are destroyed (perish).

To make PROGRESS we must go through the PROCESS, this is a well-known and assiduously avoided route for the majority. It requires consistent and vigorous application DEVELOPED BY HABIT, it involves a truckload of humility, it requires stamina born only of the spirit of God, it requires the excision and deletion of our preferences, the elevation of our deference’s, partition between peoples, in fact, if we are to be “PLEASING TO GOD” we will live a totally different lifestyle to the majority of society and be regarded as “ODD” to say the least. But it is worth every moment.

Proverbs 16:7                                    WHEN (Note the condition that applies here …  comments mine) a man’s ways please the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.

Ephesians 1: 5 defines what “PLEASES GOD”. In verse four “He chose us,” with the intent that we would be “holy, consecrated, set apart, blameless, above reproach” so that we could be “adopted as His own children,” and that “PLEASES GOD.” It also satisfies His “purpose and intent.”

In the first eleven verses of Ephesians 1, the word purpose or its derivative is used eight times. Verse 5 says “He planned in love”, and if we revert to the OT we find in Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, (The “plans He made in love” …  comments mine) says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome.”

But it must come through our application of the truth we have been afforded in God’s Word, unpalatable as it seems to the carnal mind, but infinitely rewarding to the man of faith or obedience, as we reflect on what John said

1 John 3:22, “And we receive from Him whatever we ask BECAUSE we [watchfully] (OR “CONSCIOUSLY”) obey His orders”. It is an experience seldom promoted because the lessons are couched in terms that can only be understood by spiritual means, as they conflict with the carnal mind and appear to be simply preposterous.

Ephesians 5:10                                  And TRY to learn [in your experience] (This process is generally achieved by “REPETITION” and is saying basically, “apply yourself or “TRY” to the subject matter” or the “LESSON” …  comments mine) what is PLEASING TO THE LORD [let your lives be constant proofs of what is most acceptable to Him].

THE TESTS ARE REPETITIVE

THE RESULTS ARE CONSTANT

So, how do we proceed in “PLEASING GOD”, what do I have to do to begin to implement such an unusual and obscure path, and does scripture provide me with incontrovertible directions so that I am left in no doubt as to where I should apply my efforts, or “try to learn” to “PLEASE GOD?” The Apostle Paul answered the question quite succinctly when he penned his instructions to the Roman church, and as we read it, the essence needs to settle deep in our spirits where it cannot be eradicated.

The first requirement to pleasing God is found in Hebrews 11:6 “BUT WITHOUT FAITH, it is impossible TO PLEASE and be satisfactory to Him.” Whenever I see the word “FAITH” I understand that in practical terms it means “OBEDIENCE.” So, in paraphrase, “without OBEDIENCE we cannot please God.”  (Recall 1 John 3:22 P5)

In numerous instances in the Word where “OBEDIENCE” is used it is accompanied by other terms such as “PROMPT OBEDIENCE” and “GRATEFUL RECOGNITION.”

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]. (See Colossians 1:10; Philemon 1:6; 1 John 5:2 and 4)

If it is not “PROMPT” obedience, then it may just be “acquiescence.”

Whilst much emphasis is placed upon “OBEDIENCE” we do not attribute the same degree of importance to the word “RECOGNITION.” Colossians 1:10 brings the subject acutely into focus in how we are PLEASING TO GOD but concludes with a comprehensive blueprint with the word “RECOGNITION.”

As RECOGNITION” is an extensive subject it is not convenient to deal with it here, but I suggest it is valuable for your personal study.

Romans 12:1-2                                  I APPEAL TO YOU, therefore, brethren, and BEG OF YOU in view of [all] the mercies of God, to make a decisive dedication of your bodies [presenting all your members and faculties] as a living sacrifice, holy (devoted, consecrated) and WELL PLEASING TO GOD, which is your reasonable (rational, intelligent) service and spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [by ITS NEW IDEALS AND ITS NEW ATTITUDE], SO THAT you may prove [for yourselves] 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].

The Apostle here has demanded and dictated that we must forgo all selfish pursuit, calling it “a LIVING SACRIFICE”. To many, it would seem that a “dead sacrifice” would be a much easier choice than being hauled onto the altar day after day to rid us of those superficial pleasures that flit through our minds or contaminate our day, where we are continually in conflict between what we know to do and what we want to do.

Romans 14:17 -18                            [AFTER ALL] the kingdom of God is not a matter of [getting the] food and drink [one likes], (otherwise known as “Self-Syndrome” and Romans 8:6 calls it “sense and reason without the Holy Spirit”) but instead IT IS RIGHTEOUSNESS (that state which makes a person acceptable to God) (In other words, as below, PLEASING TO GOD  ..  comments mine) and [heart] peace (Romans 8:6 uses the term “soul peace”, and so we have peace in our “attitude,” or heart, and in our “mind” or soul) and joy in the Holy Spirit.  He who serves Christ in this way is acceptable and PLEASING TO GOD and is approved by men.

The “AFTER ALL” that introduces the above scripture effectively disenfranchises all those things that could give rise to being seen as our preferences, superficial customs, and carnal appetites, while they may be legitimate, they are not expedient, and if not expedient, then they are probably not “PLEASING TO GOD”.

Many moons ago I suggested we should read Romans 8:1 – 17 on a daily basis, so again I would repeat this suggestion. Verse 17 concludes “we must share His suffering if we are to share His glory”.

OUR AMBITION DETERMINES THE OUTCOME

Romans 8:8                                         So then those who are living the life of the flesh [catering to the appetites and impulses of their carnal nature] cannot please or satisfy God or be acceptable to Him. 

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.

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TANTRUMS ROSS SMITH

TANTRUMS                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 ROSS SMITH

 

ALL REFERENCES FROM THE AMPLIFIED VERSION UNLESS NOTED

Tantrums are antisocial behaviour and stem from discontent, irritability and aggression but always with an underlying pride. There is often an underlying feeling of guilt.

They are frequently about getting God’s attention for perceived unresolved issues and attempting to control the situation. Tantrums are the temporary absence of spiritual coping skills, a form of manipulation, and an expression of frustration. Frustration comes out of a desire to exercise some control over our situation; we want resolution, we want results. We feel spiritually, emotionally, and physically that we can’t go on without a limb to hang our usually strong but currently fragile faith on, and just like a child, we throw a tizz, either inwardly or more disgustingly, outwardly.

John 16:33                                          I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. IN THE WORLD, you have tribulation and trials and distress and FRUSTRATION; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.] (Or, in other words, “I have resolved the issues causing your frustration”)

Often, we can handle the “tribulations, trials and distress”, but then comes that other pesky intrusion that irks and annoys and the “FRUSTRATION” quickly escalates into a “TANTRUM.” Initially, it is on the inside, but then migrates to the outside; the “SILENT DEBATE” inside becomes an exhaust for the pent-up, “I, my, me, mine, want, wish, wallow“, and a “TANTRUM” is launched, with devastating consequences, personally and corporately, the detonation causing significant collateral damage.

“LACK OF SELF-CONTROL”             This is looking for instant gratification; the “self-syndrome” is given free rein.

So, tantrums involve resentment, a sense of entitlement, pride, perceived wants or needs, inability to cope with negative emotions, manipulation, passive aggression or silent treatment. Wearing one’s heart on one’s sleeve is simply evidence of immaturity. And every one of these is steeped in “SELF“.

“TANTRUMS” indicate a lack of either maturity or rationality, and the intent, either conscious or unconscious, is to gain attention. A person who has “intermittent explosive disorder” (IED) feels they don’t have control. In war zones, an IED is an “improvised explosive device”. Tantrums” either stem from moods or create moods, and moods find their source in instability, identified in the Word as “double-mindedness”, an often”explosive trait. What does Scripture have to say about tantrums

1 Corinthians 13:11                         When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child; now that I have become a man, I AM DONE WITH CHILDISH WAYS (Or “Tantrums“.”  comment”mine) and have put them aside.

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

“GOOD SENSE” is not, as some suspect, that ability to make a cogent reply at a delicate moment, but the Bible clearly identifies that it requires the assistance of the Holy Spirit and says it is “The mind of “the Spirit” or “Sense and reason with the Holy Spirit” (Romans 8:6.”

Proverbs 29:11                                  A [self-confident] fool utters all his anger, (Or puts on a tantrum  ..  comments mine), but a wise man holds it back and stills it.

If we see ourselves differently than how God sees us and we think that we can coerce Him to change His mind to match our ideas, it will often result in a tantrum, and Proverbs infers that person as “a self-confident fool.” It is borne out of our unwillingness to own our actions and responses and to control them independently of what else others may do. Our real problem is our unwillingness to see ourselves as we really are.

“TANTRUMS” have as dominant features selfishness, defensiveness, and a sense of entitlement. The one overarching characteristic that embraces these features is that of pride. Father’s attitude to pride is clearly spelt out in Psalm 101:5 when He says, “I cannot, and I will not tolerate it.” (See also Psalm 18:27)

 It often helps to reflect when we are thus inclined to step back and take notice and give a thought to the very poignant record Isaiah makes of the thinking pattern we are absorbed in and how it may conflict.

Isaiah 55:8-9                                      For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, says the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.

We must be willing to submit to God’s plan and God’s will without resentment, anger, ingratitude, distrust, pride, and entitlement. We must embrace a spirit of expectancy rather than expectation.

Often, tantrums are rebelliously “kicking against the pricks”. The essential keys to success in “tantrum stopping” are timing,” like catching it before it becomes a full-blown tantrum, and consistency, catching and stopping all tantrums promptly, every time, until there is never again a time.

Child psychologists and parenting counsellors have all sorts of strategies for dealing with tantrums, AKA misbehaviours, but what method does Father adopt when we evidence this type of attitude. Well, the Word says, “Whom He loves” He chastens” (Hebrews 12″6-11 … well worth reading), and this chastening or education program will continue until we learn the lesson. It may even involve pain if we are unresponsive to His more gentle stimulus.

But I fear there may come a cutoff point for those whose “ACTIVE PERSISTENCE” is one of stubbornness or selfishness. The alarming aspect is that this sort of attitude when perpetuated, reaches the point where there is “NO REMEDY,”

Proverbs 29″1                                    HE WHO, being often reproved, hardens his neck shall suddenly be destroyed–and that without remedy.

There is a fine line but a significant difference between humility and humiliation!!! God leaves the work of being humble to us; we “humble ourselves” (1 Peter 5:”), but God will see to it that our pride is dealt with by external means if we are unwilling to “humble ourselves under the hand of God” (1 Peter 5:”). The Psalmist uses different terms, the “afflicted and humble” representing” humility, but “haughty look” incurs Father’s wrath and dealings.

Psalm 18:27                                        For You deliver an afflicted and humble people but will bring down those with haughty looks.

Our thought patterns, those machinations of our heart which we know are the motives we hold and perpetuate, are clearly defined as to their origin and effect and include the options we maintain to choose the path that suits our mood. We can either disengage from the carnal and fleshly appetites that stimulate our “TANTRUM“, or we can set our minds on and seek those things which gratify the [Holy] Spirit.” There is a term for this adverse behaviour, and it is “AKRASIA”.

“AKRASIA” is translated literally as ‘lack of self-control“, but it has come to be used as a general term for the phenomenon known as weakness of will, or incontinence, the disposition to act contrary to one’s own considered judgment about what it is best to do. It is the experience of knowing an action would be in your best interest… but you don’t do it, and it is one of the most widespread and persistent barriers to getting things done. It also means acting in a way contrary to one’s sincerely held moral values. So, the Apostle was obviously familiar with this characteristic when he wrote so poignantly

Romans 8:5-8                                     For those who are according to the flesh and are controlled by its unholy desires (Or lack “self-control”) set their minds on and pursue those things which gratify the flesh, (Read, “those who throw tantrums” or demonstrate “Akrasia”..  comments mine) but those who are according to the Spirit and are controlled by the desires of the Spirit set their minds on and seek those things which gratify the [Holy] Spirit. (Or those things that please God. See study “Acceptable Ambition“) Now the mind of the flesh [which is sense and reason without the Holy Spirit] (Or “Silent debate””resulting in tantrums) 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]. [That is] BECAUSE the mind of the flesh [with its carnal thoughts and purposes] (Read, Smitten with the malaise of “AKRASIA“) is hostile to God, for it does not submit itself to God’s Law; indeed, it cannot. (Tantrums take us outside God’s providencGod’ssuch a degree that eventually we lose the ability to submit to God’s law) So then those who are living the life of the flesh [catering to the appetites and impulses of their carnal nature] (Their propensity for “Tantrums”..  comments mine) cannot please or satisfy God or be acceptable to Him.

Romans makes it quite clear that expressing our frustrations or our anger, our dissatisfactions and disapprovals is nothing more or less than a blatant display of how carnal we are. And if we proceed to Ephesians, we see that improper emotions constitute sin, so by extrapolation, each time we get frustrated, we are evidencing our carnality. But the underlying emotion identified as the culprit in our downfall is “ANGER“, and the fuel for anger is “PRIDE“. And Solomon says that it is resident in fools.

Ecclesiastes 7:9                                 Do not be quick in spirit to be angry or vexed, for anger and vexation (the vehicle for TANTRUMS  ..  comments mine) lodge in the bosom of fools.

Ephesians 4:26-27                            When angry, DO NOT SIN; DO NOT EVER let your wrath (your exasperation, your fury or indignation) last until the sun goes down. Leave no [such] room or foothold for the devil [give no opportunity to him].

Notice how adamant the Apostle is in Ephesians, firstly “DO NOT SIN“, but”then goes on to reinforce the instruction by adding “DO NOT EVER“. I detect a tinge of irate “seasoning” in this expression that is to be adhered to without exception, and so the matter is of great consequence.

The Old Testament advice is similar but adds some very wise counsel, for, in Psalm 4:4, David says that we are to go to the naughty corner, and get sent to our room so that we cool down!!! Whenever we ignore or bury an emotion, it is buried alive. At some time and in some way, which ignored or buried emotion will express itself – physically, psychologically, or spiritually, it is best to deal with it promptly and completely.

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). (Those “Silent Debates” are “Worthless Thoughs”..  comments min) Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]! (Or, as I said, go to your room until you can behave!!!  ..  comments mine)

 James 1:19-20                                   Understand [this], my beloved brethren. Let every man be quick to hear [a ready listener], slow to speak, slow to take offence and to get angry. For man’s anger does not promote the righteousness God [WISHES AND REQUIRES].

SELAH

 

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RADICAL CHANGE MANIFESTS INHERENT POWER ROSS SMITH

RADICAL CHANGE MANIFESTS INHERENT POWER                                                                                                                        ROSS SMITH

IMPERCEPTIBLE INCREMENTS VERSUS UNDENIABLE EXCELLENCE, WHICH COMES ABOUT THROUGH RADICAL CHANGE

ALL REFERENCES FROM THE AMPLIFIED VERSION UNLESS NOTED

We probably need to break this statement down into bite-sized pieces to digest the content and implement the intent. So often, we are disappointed with ourselves and the progress we are making, and that in itself is a good thing, that is, unless it becomes destructive.

The progress we make is always related to the sort of change that is involved; for example, if it just requires us to be more punctual, we must start earlier in the task at hand. However, if it requires something like evidencing the “Wisdom from above”, then there is often needed significant change, firstly in the obtaining that characteristic, but more importantly, implementing that characteristic.

I would suggest that this “skill” is learned and accomplished in “INCREMENTS“, which may seem imperceptible changes because these changes must consolidate (making into a coherent whole) to constitute real change….(that change that is permanent and lasting –

Deuteronomy 17:16 (B)                 YOU SHALL NEVER RETURN THAT WAY.

If the necessary change is being wrought within, that is what will keep us from going back the way we’ve come – returning to old habits. As we progress in these imperceptible advancements, there will be a recognition by the world around us, for our lives will become an evidence; it has to become apparent.

Ephesians 5:11                                  Take no part in and have no fellowship with the fruitless deeds and enterprises of darkness, but instead [let your lives be so in contrast as to] expose and reprove and convict them.

The “BUT INSTEAD” is the equivalent of “CHANGE, SO THAT.”

IMPERCEPTIBLE = unnoticeable, invisible, indiscernible, unrevealed, light, slight, small, unremarkable, gradual, tiny, hardly noticeable, barely visible

ANTONYM = OBVIOUS   (This follows the “IMPERCEPTIBLE INCREMENTS.”)

Things become obvious and undeniable when habitually practised – and that habitual practice becomes that which is expected in us in the eyes of others – predictable – this is when our manner and conduct become a contrast – no vacillation but that habitual/unbroken practice.

“IMPERCEPTIBLE CHANGE” is more apparent to us than to others sometimes, but we get disappointed that it doesn’t generally show.

The growth of this grace comes in many forms, but it is more than that gift of God at the time of our salvation; it is also how we establish our steadfastness. It is also an unavoidable change brought about by our persistent study and implementation of God’s Word, not just hearing but also doing. But in the long run, the antonym must come into play, and THE CHANGE MUST BECOME OBVIOUS.

 A lot is made of the need to reduce our waistline, millions of dollars are spent on advertising methods, and further millions are spent on joining these clubs and weight loss programs. But often, the progress is “IMPERCEPTIBLE” until we jump on the scales, for to look in the mirror can still be confronting. Still, the scales serve as an encouragement that although the change is “IMPERCEPTIBLE,” it is at least “INCREMENTAL” as long as we persist in the diet.

The same principle applies in spiritual terms; it is no good to be “spiritual” on Sunday and “natural” for the rest of the week. There has to be that daily commitment to the seemingly “IMPERCEPTIBLE” until we begin to see the “INCREMENTAL“, which, if perpetuated, will lead to the “RADICAL CHANGE” that constitutes “CONFORMITY.”

Radical change is described as, thorough-going, far-reaching or extreme, especially regarding the change from accepted or traditional forms;  It’s “radical” because it demands action/change relating to the fundamental nature of something.

INCREMENTS = increases, growths, boosts.

The whole of creation continues to grow, and we see this incremental change in the flowers of the garden, one day just a plant, then a bud and today a beautiful flower. It didn’t happen in an instant; it followed the rules that Father established before the foundation of the world, (and as we know so well, there is a process ordained of God that we too, simply have to undergo) and the plant, like the seasons, like our natural body, changes incrementally.

Today we are a certain age tomorrow, we have had an incremental change, but when these increments are added together, the end result is that they get old or mature, but most often “Beautiful.”

Ephesians 4:15-16                            Rather, let our lives lovingly express truth [in all things, speaking truly, dealing truly, living truly]. Enfolded in love, let us grow up in every way and in all things into Him Who is the Head, [even] Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One). For because of Him the whole body (the church, in all its various parts), closely joined and firmly knit together by the joints and ligaments with which it is supplied, when each part [with power adapted to its need] is working properly [in all its functions], grows to full maturity, building itself up in love.

Spiritual growth happens when we are speaking the truth in love with one another. Great argument could erupt over this point and probably has already surfaced in the thoughts and reasonings of some over how they are dealt with.

Revelation 3:19 states plainly:  Those whom I love, I TELL THEIR FAULTS AND CONVICT AND CONVINCE AND REPROVE AND CHASTEN. I DISCIPLINE AND INSTRUCT THEM. So be enthusiastic and in earnest and burning with zeal and REPENT – CHANGE YOUR MIND AND ATTITUDE.

This is where it all falls down – in the mind and attitude towards what is transpiring. Never a truer word was spoken than that in Jeremiah 23:36 says:  … for every man’s burden is his own response and word

Hebrews 12:3  tells us that we “faint in our minds”, and how we reason determines our spiritual growth or otherwise. But even when we are doing this, it can be challenging to detect growth in our own lives. But unless there is that “INCREMENTAL PROGRESS“, there is in its place, “DEATH.”

We can grow without seeing it. More often than not, the Holy Spirit grows us in increments, not leaps and bounds.

Exodus 23:30                                     Little by little, I will drive them out before you, UNTIL YOU HAVE INCREASED AND ARE NUMEROUS ENOUGH TO TAKE POSSESSION OF THE LAND.

 1 Peter 1:2 (B)                                   “(sanctified, made holy) by the Spirit to be obedient to Jesus Christ (the Messiah) and to be sprinkled with [His] blood

We sometimes get discouraged by the circumstances surrounding us. We succumb by REGARDING THEM AS PERVERSE AND PERNICIOUS WHEN THESE VERY CIRCUMSTANCES, IN FACT, ARE ELEVATING US IN THE ECONOMY OF GOD.

Circumstances are INTENDED to elevate us. But that intended elevation will never occur when we engage in objection – the “elevation” only takes place in the correct response. It is only as we pass through the refining process that the dross is removed, the gold begins to glow, and our quality is tested. (1 Peter 4:12) The Bible puts it this way: –

Habakkuk 3:19                                  The Lord God is my Strength, my personal bravery, and my invincible army; He makes my feet like hinds’ feet and WILL MAKE ME TO WALK [NOT TO STAND STILL IN TERROR, BUT TO WALK] AND MAKE [SPIRITUAL] PROGRESS UPON MY HIGH PLACES [OF TROUBLE, SUFFERING, OR RESPONSIBILITY]

It is only happening in our proper response. Just going through a circumstance, whether it be trouble, suffering or responsibility, does not qualify us for hinds feet. They are the possession of those who are determined to climb.

Progress on difficult terrain is often slow and arduous. The terrain can be difficult but more burdensome and crippling by our resistant heart attitude; our response is Jeremiah 23:36.

 Right response: is recognition and gratitude for where the Lord is taking us and what He is endeavouring to accomplish in us.

Wrong response: is believing we are being unjustly dealt with, feeling sorry for ourselves, fainting in our minds, objection and silent debate, and even resentment.

Each step requires concentration and effort; the route may not be well signposted, it may be rocky or steep, but by traversing this territory, our stamina is improved. However, there will be no traffic jams on “The Road Less Travelled.”

Ephesians 5:15                                  Look carefully then how you walk! Live purposefully and worthily, and accurately. KJV “walk circumspectly” = exactly, diligently, perfectly.

This is the “excellence” we are called to, but we have all formed our own version of what this looks like and comfortably fits the way we have chosen to live our lives. Thus the objection at now being pressured to adopt and adapt to the “standard height” of God’s expectations.

The believer in a post-fall world is still living with the presence of sin and temptation around, but because we’ve been granted a new heart through Christ’s sacrifice, we are actually capable of choosing things that please the Lord.

We do that over the course of a lifetime. We don’t do it perfectly, but we do it incrementally better as time goes by; sometimes—I think everybody would testify—it feels like “imperceptibly incrementally” in some areas of our lives because we become familiar with the changes and overlook the progress we have made.

We do have sin patterns that we battle for years, and we can have the sense that I’m not getting any better at this reimaging thing that is supposed to be happening in me where I begin to look as I was intended to look—to look like Christ who perfectly imaged the Father.

 If we wish to persist in our old ways, the way we have always done things, then there is no propensity for change and an unfortunate inability to keep up with God’s program for the days we live in.

 Isaiah 43:18-19                                 Do not [earnestly] remember the former things; neither consider the things of old. (V19)  Behold, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs forth; do you not perceive and know it, and will you not give heed to it? I will even make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.

 If there is no “RADICAL CHANGE“, we will continue to reside in the “former things“, unable to perceive and know it and therefore ignore it.

 

(Added comments L.Jeanneret.)

 

SELAH

 

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SUBTLE SIGNS OF SUBVERSION ROSS SMITH

SUBTLE SIGNS OF SUBVERSION                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           ROSS SMITH

 

ALL REFERENCES FROM THE AMPLIFIED VERSION UNLESS NOTED

 

The trouble with the church at large today is we don’t know who we are, and spiritual subtly has been injected into us by those who would destroy our God-given purpose. We are spectators instead of participants in what is now a church democracy. The church is conducted to suit the congregation instead of demanding accountability. Respecting theocracy is evidenced when we personally and individually “Carefully analyse, accurately divide, rightly handle and skillfully teach.”

Sound like a strange premise to look at for a study? we are prepared to believe the lies and make-belief fed to us by “religious people” instead of “spiritual people”, and minuscule loud-mouthed lobby groups financed by some hidden hand, representing perversion and ideas once considered abhorrent to Christendom. Even Television preachers who “fleece the flock” with their impassioned plea to enhance your prosperity while feathering their nests.

Today, much of the church has spent decades learning the “language of the church” their accent is perfect, but they have little grasp of the spiritual vocabulary.

Isaiah 29:13                                         And the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near Me with their mouth and honour Me with their lips but remove their hearts and minds far from Me, and their fear and reverence for Me are a commandment of men that is learned by repetition [without any thought as to the meaning],

We can express the “syllables” but cannot evidence the “solids.” They are syllables without significance, sounds without signs, and symbolism devoid of sincerity.

It is not the speech that is faulty; it is the dictionary of the heart where the fundamentals of truth are “looked up” at convenient times. In natural terms, this sort of dictionary is advertised as “easier-english-basic-dictionary.”

NO REAL THOUGHT AS TO THE MEANING. (Isaiah 29:13)

To understand the “subtle signs of subversion,” we must have a comprehensive understanding of propositions or principles that people would bring to our attention, often animatedly and colourfully.

The origin and intention of words “that God-breathed” (2 Timothy 3:16) are embellished by anecdotes and superficial observations so that the unsuspecting is distracted from God’s Word’s life-changing power.

Titus 2:7                                                And show your own self in all respects to be a pattern and a model of good deeds and works, teaching what is unadulterated, showing gravity (which is the opposite of “levity”)  having the strictest regard for truth and purity of motive], with dignity and seriousness.

I recently looked at the scriptural intention of “LOVE“. I was reassured that meticulous adherence to the commandments, precepts, orders, and instructions of the Word is the one and the only thing that will satisfy God’s heart has to my sincerity.

However, we can be subverted by the charismatic charlatan, subtly camouflaged in sheep’s clothing, not necessarily unknown, but maybe even from within. (2 Peter 2:1)

Jesus warned, “Beware of false prophets, who come to you dressed as sheep, but inside they are devouring wolves.” He was referring to pastors and teachers who—either with deliberate deceit or in ignorance—would bring false teachings into churches. (Matthew 7:15)

Jesus went on to say, “You shall know them by their fruits…” (Matt. 7:15-16). We are to be examining any teacher or pastor who presumes to preach the Bible—to discern their fruits.

The cliché, “if it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck, it is a duck”, does not apply to those who would appear to be authentic.

2 Peter 2:1  (A)                                    BUT ALSO [in those days] there arose false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among yourselves, who will subtly and stealthily introduce heretical doctrines (destructive heresies.

These “Heretical doctrines and destructive heresies” may not always be intentional but most certainly will be sourced in ignorance and disobedience to the Word of God, even in the little things.

Just because it sounds good doesn’t mean that it is good! The apostle Paul ensured that the Corinthian church understood this, indicating that eloquence without adherence constituted “a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal.”

He went further; even if the man seems incredibly gifted, remarkably intelligent, and even able to evidence the spectacular, and yet not adhere unswervingly to the Word of God, he was to be regarded as “as nothing.” (1 Corinthians 13:1)

The propensity of Christendom today to patronise society by establishing food banks, women’s shelters, hospital respite, older people’s homes, whilst commendable characteristics and often necessary,  the apostle Paul stated categorically,

1 Corinthians 13:3                              Even if I dole out all that I have [to the poor in providing] food, and if I surrender my body to be burned or in order that I may glory, but have not love (God’s love in me), I gain nothing.

Paul’s statement, “God’s love in me“, is that abiding consistent, unwavering decisive dedication to the Word of God “in its entirety.”

1 John 2:5                                             But he who keeps (treasures) His Word [who bears in mind His precepts, who observes His message in its entirety], truly in him has the love of and for God been perfected (completed, reached maturity). By this we may perceive (know, recognise, and be sure) that we are in Him:

Why do I feel it is necessary to draw our attention to this matter in such strident terms? It is because in days to come, the “huffing and puffing” served up today as “preaching and teaching” needs to be purified. Ten minutes of “TRUTH” is far more constructive than two hours of “BLUFF” when the “language of the church” can be enunciated in eloquent terms but do nothing to build up the body of Christ or change the face of the nation.

“Buying up the time” is not gaining more time but making the absolute best of our afforded time, both to PREPARE and SHARE.

In the preparation of our studies, we should studiously avoid theories proposed by people whose fruit is not obvious; we should not deviate to accommodate men’s opinions written for profit; we must become ruthless in our assessment of expressions of men that do not accurately replicate “Scripture that is God-breathed.” This means our studies are free from taint.

Consequently, it is recommended that when we compile a study, we realise the “first pass” review is not adequate meditation but requires ongoing and insightful revision to weed out all unnecessary and unenlightening statements or examples and anecdotes.

In so saying, it means that we need to become experts in “disambiguation“, and I know you will react to that Word, but what it means is that we become spiritually astute in scriptural explanation. This is not intended to deter our efforts but to impel our integrity.

In days to come, it may be necessary for each of us to remind each other that “DISAMBIGUATION” is the hallmark of the practitioner of C.A.R.S. that is the, “Carefully analysing, accurately dividing, rightly handling and skillfully teaching.” (2 Timothy 2:15)

Proverbs 13:5                                      A [consistently] righteous man hates lying and deceit (Read “subtlety“), but a wicked man is loathsome [his very breath spreads pollution] (Read, “What he says“), and he comes [surely] to shame.

We must learn and learn quickly to identify “the subtle signs of subversion.” It is called “CHURCHSPEAK.”

 

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SPIRITUAL FRAUD ROSS SMITH

SPIRITUAL FRAUD                                                                     ROSS SMITH   280122

ALL REFERENCES FROM AMPLIFIED VERSION UNLESS NOTED

The statement brought to our attention of late, “To profess something and not do it is dishonest”, it is put more strenuously by the apostle John in 1 John 2:4

1 John 2:4                                           Whoever says, I know Him [I perceive, recognise, understand, and am acquainted with Him] but fails to keep and obey His commandments (teachings) is a liar, and the Truth [of the Gospel] is not in him.

The epistle was not addressed to any particular church or period, but for the whole Christian community, even down to us today.

The imperative for “CONFORMITY” is not some truth just revealed, but a long-standing truth, ignored. The first six verses of this chapter should be a regular “Prescribed reading.”

I am sure of one thing; we are being coerced to grow from “learning to read” to that level of “reading to learn.” This is part of the reason the Word of God has not been “Alive and Active” because when it was read, the reader did not consciously take in each phrase with an inquiring mind but read it just as text.

The salient point the Lord was trying to make to us yesterday has become just a bookmark today; we pick up from where we left off without “carefully analysing”. The Word of God is not a novel, not just interesting reading; it is the very essence of our life. It shows in the way we minister, but it also shows in the way that we behave. A LIFE LIVED IN THE LIGHT LEAVES NO ROOM FOR REPROACH.

John 6:63                                             It is the Spirit Who gives life [He is the Life-giver]; the flesh conveys no benefit whatever [there is no profit in it]. The words (truths) that I have been speaking to you are spirit and life.

The practice of some men to bring a study that has been plagiarised, pilfered, or pre-recorded is true “Spiritual Fraud” because it does not carry  the Spirit John speaks of; there has been no “virtue and knowledge returned” as occurs when the message is alive from “Reading to Learn.”

“Learning to Read” is not just about words; it is about content” the quarrying and extracting, that insight into the “authors intended meaning.” Once we begin to “Learn to read”, we might not get past a phrase or even just a few verses, and such a passage is 1 John 2:1 – six.

If we just look at the introduction, John says in paraphrase, “I’m writing to you about your conformity.” How do I come to that conclusion? John explains as he precedes that to “violate God’s law” is to dismiss our need to conform, and spells out again in paraphrase, “Jesus conformed, and it included his every purpose thought and action.”

Then John gives us a rather sharp nudge; he says we need to check on our conformity on a daily basis, in verse 3 and what is his criteria? “And this is how we may discern daily, by experience”, and it includes a significant undertaking, that is, to put into practice today what we “Profess”; otherwise, we are liars, John’s words not mine.

It requires that we             1 Bear in mind

                                           2 Observe

                                            3 Practice

1. BEAR IN MIND. This is to remember and consider something when

(A) making a decision,

(B) before taking action (TFD)

this is a pedestrian explanation of Proverbs 3:6, but Proverbs adds a little more emphasis by adding “recognise” before the “acknowledge”. Our lack of “recognition” or “awareness” of God at work “in all our ways” defines as to what our CONFORMITY requires, so we fail to “acknowledge” the event, trial, task, pleasure, instruction, reproof et cetera and consequently stagger off on detours, AKA “distractions” from the “direct, straight and plain paths.” These detours require “Fiery Ordeals” to prompt our transition from “PRETENDER TO PROTAGONIST.   Blink, and you may miss it!!!

Why do we do this? we have some inherent “Nomadic” characteristics that incline us to look for a “more scenic route”, one with fewer guardrails and more green pastures, less responsibility and more “recess.” The scenic route, however, takes longer to reach our destination. If we reflect like John says, “discern (or learn) daily by experience”, we will find today’s “scenic road” experiences were only pretty, but not productive, not much on the way of “CONFORMITY”, just fleeting glimpses of our destiny instead of the “perceive, recognise and understand.”

Even those three words are progressive, for “perception” is “awareness”, recognition is acknowledgement, and understanding is the experience of the days refining process.

Psalm 143:8 is an excellent principle to “BEAR IN MIND.”

Psalm 143:8                                        Cause me to hear Your loving-kindness in the morning, for on You do I lean and in You do I trust. Cause me to know the way wherein I should walk, for I lift up my inner self to You.

We can, with gay abandon, cite this prayer the Psalmist made but as soon as the Lord begins to “CAUSE”, we begin to “complain.” We are not keen to hear what he has to say if we don’t meet with him in the morning, and we often object strenuously when he points out or “CAUSES” our walk to be different to the one who would choose. A simple example of a “SPIRITUAL FRAUD.”

Concentrated in this one verse are instructions we have been prompted to obey over an extended period. Firstly, it is necessary to make the Lord our refuge early in the morning before we start our day. If we “PROFESS” to love the Lord, then we will forsake our bed to meet with the Lord. Secondly, and well known, is that if we love the law of the Lord by applying it meticulously, then there will be no offence.

IF WE ARE OFFENDED, WE OFFEND THE LORD BECAUSE WE DO NOT ACCEPT THE PRECEPTS THAT PRESERVE US FROM “SPIRITUAL FRAUD”; WE OFFER “LIP SERVICE”, NOT “LIFE SERVICE.”

Isaiah 29:13                                        And the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near Me with their mouth and honor Me with their lips but remove their hearts and minds far from Me, and their fear and reverence for Me are a commandment of men that is learned by repetition [without any thought as to the meaning],

Secondly, Proverbs 3:6 refers to Father directing and making straight our parts, and the Psalmist adds to this direction by requiring the elevation of “my inner self”, that is, my heart, my motives, not just my mouth.

2. OBSERVE “OBSERVE” carries different meanings to different people, to one it means to stand back and watch what is happening, and we now know this as “In attendance but not involved”, like the 50 sons of the prophets watching Elijah and Elisha, or Peter who “followed afar off”. but then to another, “OBSERVE” is a much more active term, the dictionary says, “to conform one’s action or practice to something, to comply with”, and so it becomes acutely relevant to our experience.

Jesus, when instructing His disciples in their role, made it clear in Matthew, where the word “OBSERVE” from the Greek means, “to attend to carefully, take care of,  to guard: to watch carefully especially with attention to details or behavior for the purpose of arriving at a judgment.” In our case, the attainment of “CONFORMITY” not just in word, but in “Purpose, thought and action.”

Matthew 28:20  (A)                         Teaching them to observe everything that I have commanded you, and behold, I am with you all the days (perpetually, uniformly, and on every occasion), to the [very] close and consummation of the age. Amen (so let it be).

“CONFORMITY” is no new thing, for the Israelites required it after coming out of Egypt. The principle of “RIGHTEOUSNESS”, which has been demanded of us for some decades as I recall, was also a hallmark of those who would observe God’s precepts.

Deuteronomy 6:25                          And it will be accounted as righteousness (conformity to God’s will in word, thought, and action) for us if we are watchful (KJV uses the word “OBSERVE” in place of “watchful)  to do all this commandment before the Lord our God, as He has commanded us.

3. PRACTICE our exploration into “Spiritual Fraud” would not be complete unless we heed the instructions, bear fruit, and progressively demonstrate the nature of Christ. This skill and ability demands our moment by moment practise, not just an isolated exercise but a developing lifestyle.

You may ask why it is a “developing lifestyle” well,  we only need to go back a couple of verses in 1 John to find the answer.

1 John 3:16                                         By this we come to know (progressively to recognise, to perceive, to understand) the [essential] love: that He laid down His [own] life for us; and we ought to lay [our] lives down for [those who are our] brothers [in Him].

Even the apostle Paul adhered rigidly to his motives and ambition to develop that “progressive” transformation so that there was no possibility of his actions being betrayed by his speech and incurring reproach. In making this statement, he made in Philippians 3, and you can be sure that his critics and combatants would seize upon his pledge to try and wring every ounce of advantage they could to contradict and condemn Paul.

Philippians 3:10                                For my determined purpose is] that I may know Him [that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving and recognising and understanding the wonders of His Person more strongly and more clearly],

1 John 3:18                                         Little children, let us not love [merely] in speech but in deed and in truth (in practice and in sincerity).

The requirement “In deed and truth” carries the sense of pragmatism, that is, the practical application of ideas and ideals resulting in “EXPERIENCE” first followed by evidence.

UNTESTED FACTS CAN RESULT IN MISLEADING ACTS

ANYTHING LESS THAN THIS CONSTITUTES “SPIRITUAL FRAUD.”

Where anything dilutes or distracts our commitment to the Lord, attracts undue attention, or emerges as a preference, it must be addressed so that the priority we embrace aligns with God’s Word.

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 neighbor as yourself.

 

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ALL THESE THINGS ARE TAKING PLACE ROSS SMITH

ALL THESE THINGS ARE TAKING PLACE                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              ROSS SMITH  021121

 

ALL REFERENCES FROM AMPLIFIED VERSION UNLESS NOTED.

2 Corinthians 4:15                            FOR ALL THESE THINGS ARE TAKING PLACE FOR YOUR SAKE, SO THAT the MORE GRACE (divine favor and spiritual blessing) extends to MORE AND MORE PEOPLE and multiplies through the many, the MORE THANKSGIVING may increase [and redound] to the glory of God.

In paraphrase, “ Everything is happening to you for the sake of others and to make you grateful.”

It is important to notice the tense used by the apostle in this expression, “These things ARE taking place”, which is present continuous tense, but then comes to the “SO THAT”, which is future tense. If we do not effectively engage in the “Things taking place”, then WE WILL FORFEIT whatever Father intended in the “For your sake.” Failure to comply results in failure to conform.

Paul has nominated that “ALL these things ARE taking place, not WILL take place, and so we should be looking in expectation for similar experiences he has nominated in the previous seven verses. The “ALL” does not pertain just to the significant, but also simple, and the difference is only in our “AWARENESS”………   ALL THESE THINGS.

We are familiar with what John 1:16 says, complementing the above verse by stating, “one grace after another and spiritual blessing upon spiritual blessing and even favor upon favor and gift [heaped] upon gift.”

God will always achieve His purpose by utilising the services of instruments WHO ARE DETERMINED to make clear that the exceeding greatness of His power is His, not theirs. (V7)  Whenever there is a SCINTILLA of pride, it banishes humility and cancels our credibility.

You may have noticed that I have bolded, underlined and enlarged the word “YOUR” because I accept the challenge the apostle Paul is offering to me to understand if only superficially, the hand of God in everything. For that reason, I see that “For ALL these things ARE taking place for MY sake, here and now, in every moment, so, the verse is both personal and powerful.

1. FOR “WHOM”, ALL THESE THINGS ARE TAKING PLACE Paul is not only addressing the “THESE THINGS” that he was experiencing, but all things WE are experiencing – they are determining our character. Our experiences do not DEFINE our character, but our experiences DETERMINE our character.

If we can only see the present circumstance and cannot rise above the event or implement the sacrifice of my “pet bull” as with Gideon, then we are spiritually myopic and cannot see “ALL THINGS.”

If you’re not sure what I’m referring to, the details in Romans 5 make it very obvious, although not more palatable, it relates to character.

Rom 5:3-4                                           Moreover [LET US ALSO BE FULL OF JOY NOW!] (Present continual tense  ..  comments mine)  let us exult and triumph in our troubles and rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that pressure and affliction and hardship produce patient and unswerving endurance. (V4) AND ENDURANCE (FORTITUDE) DEVELOPS (This is the same as above, “Determine”) MATURITY OF CHARACTER (approved faith (This is “adherence, trust and reliance in operation, sight unseen, proof not given, results not obvious  ..  Comments mine) and tried integrity). And character [of this sort] PRODUCES [the habit of] joyful and confident hope of eternal salvation.

EXULT FIRST  —–  TRIUMPH SECOND.

“TRIED INTEGRITY” is the practice and product of being honest and showing a consistent and UNCOMPROMISING ADHERENCE to strong moral and ethical principles and values (Wikipedia)

  “INTEGRITY” is the opposite of hypocrisy, and I remind us, “To say we believe something and not do it, is dishonest, hypocritical and fraudulent. “INTEGRITY” has no accommodation for conflicting values and is the condition of having a moral framework and acting according to that framework, i.e. God’s Word. CONFLICTING VALUES CANCEL CREDIBILITY.

Unless correct ideas of worship and true reverence are expressed and impressed upon our hearts, there will be a growing tendency to place the holy, sacred and eternal on a level with common and profane things. (See the study “The holy and the Profane”). Those professing the truth will be a contrast and viewed as a disgrace to religion. We can never, with our uncultivated ideas and inappropriate motives, appreciate the pure and the holy and be prepared to join with the worshipers in the heavenly court who are watching us intently, where all is pure and perfect, where every being has absolute reverence for God and His holiness.  (The “great cloud of witnesses of Hebrews 12:1)

The progression in Romans 5:3 is significant, FIRSTLY the exulting, THEN the triumph. We are much more accustomed to wanting to triumph first before we exult, but it doesn’t work that way.

These two verses in Romans 5 contain five varieties of difficulty, and the endurance and fortitude PRODUCE five different results.

 

DIFFICULTIES

• Troubles )
• Sufferings )              If we object, refuse, kick against the pricks there remains childishness, a lack of maturity, a void of integrity.
• Pressure )
• Affliction )
• Hardship )

RESULTS

• Maturity (is implemented, and the following items are contingent)
• Approved faith —           evidence of adherence, trust and reliance
• Tried integrity —           proven adherence to God’s precepts
• Habit of joyfulness —   regardless
• Confident hope — undisturbed peace

WHEN THE RESULTS ARE SO OUTSTANDING, WHY ARE WE SO STUPID AS TO RESIST OR OBJECT TO THE PROCESS?

According to Matthew, maturity accompanies tested character or “tried integrity.” If there is ONLY a little response to testing, there will ONLY be little character!

ACCEPTING GOD’S ETHICS PRODUCES OUR ETHOS.

Paul again asserts the principle in 2 Corinthians 6:4, “through GREAT endurance, in tribulation and suffering, in hardships and privations, in sore straits and CALAMITIES.

I have mentioned more than once that “disasters are happening and are waiting to happen.” Corinthians identifies them as “CALAMITIES” and is Father’s last resort in attempting to have us “CONFORM.” This scenario awaits us if we retain any other idiosyncrasies and hold improper attitudes like those of Jonah’s days.

Jonah 4:1 (B — ESV)                         And should not I pity Nineveh, that great city, in which there are more than 120,000 persons who do not know their right hand from their left. (That is, they are unable to tell right from wrong, lacking spiritual maturity and integrity  ..  comments mine)

“THESE” constitute “ALL THESE THINGS TAKING PLACE”, no mention of parties, holidays, time off, recreation, just things that are “GREAT”, “through GREAT endurance” (2 Corinthians 6:4). It is probably a convenient point to compare 2 Corinthians 6:4 with Romans 5:3 – 4.

DIFFICULTIES

 ROMANS 5:3-4                                                  2 CORINTHIANS 6:4

• Troubles Tribulation                                            Tribulation
• Sufferings Suffering                                            Suffering
• Pressure Calamity                                               Calamity
• Affliction Sore straits                                          Sore straits
• Hardship Hardship and privation                       Hardship and privation`

But it would be remiss if I did not draw your attention to verses 5 – 10 in 2 Corinthians, for I would not have you limit the refining process to that above, as there are several other “furnaces” being stoked for our refining, designed to produce results.

RESULTS

• Maturity is carried out
• Approved faith
• Tried integrity
• Habit of joyfulness
• Confident hope

These constitute “ALL THESE THINGS TAKING PLACE.” True servants are produced through great endurance and tribulation. If that seems objectionable, see what Hebrews says and the purpose for it.

I have a question for you. What do you perceive as the most important “NEED” you have today?

Hebrews 10:36                                  FOR YOU HAVE NEED (NOW —Present continual tense !!!)  of steadfast patience and endurance, SO THAT (Future tense )  you may perform and fully accomplish the will of God, and thus receive and carry away [and enjoy to the full] what is promised. (AKA “Potential”  ..  comments mine)

Without this “steadfast patience and endurance”, Paul is inferring that there is a question mark over our ability to do God’s will, and secondly, to receive the promise or to evidence proper fruits. Not an attractive place to be.

 He is consistent in his recommendations. He says, “for you have NEED”, and proceeds to identify those three traits which seem so elusive, “steadfastness, patience, endurance”, which we frequently evidence as brittle and fragile. But, when I can see that this “NEED” is not a lack but a provision because, in this case, God supplies the “NEED” as well as the “SOLUTION”, then I am beginning to mature.

It is probably a convenient time to contemplate the “SO THAT.”

Philippians 4:19                                And my God will liberally supply (fill to the full) YOUR EVERY NEED according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

That “NEED” is parceled up in “ALL THESE THINGS TAKING PLACE”, difficulties and tribulations liberally supplied by the Lord we claim to own and now arrogantly object to! We think this is for our tangible needs, Father is more interested in our spiritual needs, in our conformity, not our comfort!

ALL PROGRESS TAKES PLACE OUTSIDE OF THE COMFORT ZONE

 

2. THE REASON FOR ALL THESE THINGS ARE TAKING PLACE

The reason is “FOR MY SAKE”    SO THAT there will be “MORE GRACE” of 2 Corinthians 4:15 Oh, that I had a greater appreciation of grace, how presumptuous am I on a daily basis when I take God’s grace for granted?

When I look around at the turmoil of the nations, the insurrection of society, the hospitals packed to the rafters, the persecution of some ethnic groups,  the insincerity of churchgoers, then I need John to remind me!

John 1:16                                             FOR OUT OF HIS FULLNESS (ABUNDANCE) we have all received [all had a share and we were all supplied with] one grace after another and spiritual blessing upon spiritual blessing and even favor upon favor and gift [heaped] upon gift. 

 Have we expressed our gratitude this last week? We may need to remove some objections to make room for gratitude!!!!!

 That’s why “ALL THESE THINGS ARE TAKING PLACE”, to get my attention and to arrest my focus, to collect my thoughts as Zephaniah 2:1 says and see the magnificence and munificence of God in my charmed life, living in the “FULLNESS” of John 1 and acknowledging the privilege.

1 Chronicles 16:8                              O give thanks to the Lord, call on His name;! make known His doings among the peoples.

We “make known” not just by what we say; PEOPLE ARE NOT GOOD LISTENERS but how we behave in our experience, that ability to “exult and triumph” which is devoid of any complaint or pride.

 

Every week I spend hours responding to people’s questioning of “ALL THESE THINGS” as though “something strange, unusual and alien was befalling you.”

We must quickly, expediently and prudently recognise that “ALL THESE THINGS” are not “alien”, are not things of chance, they don’t just emerge from the dust, they are “BY APPOINTMENT,” and we need to keep our appointments. The world has expectations in our meeting “appointments”, but I fear many of us fail in this respect in spiritual matters, but we are exposed to appointments in the natural to develop this skill in the spiritual.

1 Peter 4:12                                        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.”

“AMAZED AND BEWILDERED” is a parallel statement to “object, neglect, refuse, complain.”

Appointments are made up of two things,

1. TIME
2. TASK

If we return to Romans 5:3, it says, “let us be full of joy”, which is the “TASK”, and to do it “NOW”, which is the time, and consequently is an appointment. If we are tardy in this respect, we will forfeit the maturity promised.

If we can’t meet our “APPOINTMENTS” now, where we have time to get ready and prepare, we will almost certainly miss the great “APPOINTMENT” of His return because it will be at an unannounced instant.

Another example where God’s Word has confronted us to deal with is our idiosyncrasies, our “pet bulls” (In the example of Gideon)  of poor attitudes or questionable motives identified in the story of Gideon, so I ask did you go to bed last night with any outstanding issues, minor, major or malevolent, then you missed the “Appointment.”

Ephesians 4:26                                  When angry, do not sin; do not ever let your WRATH (your exasperation, your fury or indignation) last until the sun goes down.

“WRATH” is not just anger; it is a “bad attitude”. In verse 31, it is lumped in with “passion, rage, bad temper, resentment, in fact, a compendium of emotions that have no place in our “APPOINTMENTS.”   If you’re still not convinced, 2 Corinthians 12:20 will add some clarity.

3. “THESE THINGS ARE TAKING PLACE” ——- so that I can, through understanding, gained by experience, be profitable and  for the benefit of “MORE AND MORE PEOPLE.”  If I resist the experience, that is, the “THINGS TAKING PLACE”, then I fail to please the Lord and evidence blatant disobedience.

 Hebrews 3:10                                    And so I was provoked (displeased and sorely grieved) with that generation, and said, They always err and are led astray in their HEARTS, (Or “motives”, of retribution, retaliation, point-scoring  ..  Comments mine)   and THEY HAVE NOT PERCEIVED OR RECOGNISED MY WAYS AND BECOME PROGRESSIVELY BETTER AND MORE EXPERIMENTALLY AND INTIMATELY ACQUAINTED WITH THEM.

I need to become “Progressively better and more experimentally and intimately acquainted” with God’s ways; OTHERWISE, I can be led astray.

I can’t afford to be led astray,  “MORE AND MORE PEOPLE” are dependent upon the grace of God I am to evidence, not just talk about, more than just think about, but the manifested creative genius of the Lord God I serve by His using the “ALL THESE THINGS TAKING PLACE” to produce a “life of contrast” exposing, reproving and convicting, “MORE AND MORE PEOPLE.”

This does not mean you will be liked; it could be quite the opposite

When you are intimately acquainted with someone, it means you understand their nature, behaviours, et cetera, and if they are commendable, try and emulate them.

Jeremiah 9:24                                    But let him who glories glory in this: that he UNDERSTANDS and KNOWS ME [personally and practically, directly discerning and recognising My character], that I am the Lord, Who practices loving-kindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth, for in these things I delight, says the Lord.

The words “discerning and recognising” are different dimensions. (1) DISCERNING is knowing Who He is, which demands number (2) RECOGNISING or acknowledging Him in every way.

4. THESE THINGS ARE TAKING PLACE SO THAT “The more thanksgiving may increase.” The vehicle to transport and convey my gratitude must be enlarged, the fleet extended, and that courier employed  is “AWARENESS.” Without “AWARENESS”, there is no fuel to carry my gratitude. This is the only way I can fulfil 1 Thessalonians 5:18.

1 Thessalonians 5:18                      Thank [God] in EVERYTHING (THAT IS HAPPENING  ..  comments mine)[NO MATTER WHAT THE CIRCUMSTANCES MAY BE, be thankful and give thanks], FOR THIS IS THE WILL OF GOD FOR YOU [who are] in Christ Jesus [the Revealer and Mediator of that will].

The “NO MATTER, is the “NO EXCUSES” as to what the circumstances may be”, which is another way of stating “These things taking place”, broadly covered by the word “EVERYTHING.

Paul says these circumstances, opportunities, and sanctified experiences are the events enabling us to walk in God’s will when we become so “AWARE” that we OOZE WITH GRATITUDE so that it broadly impinges upon others. If we resist or object, we take ourselves outside of God’s will. Here’s a good reason for “GRATITUDE.”

WE ALL HAVE ONLY TWO MINUTES OF LIFE LEFT, BUT EVERY TIME YOU BREATHE, IT RESETS THE CLOCK.

 A “MATTER” is not just physical matter, but “a subject or situation under consideration”. So, it takes in “ALL THESE THINGS.”

So many people are seeking God’s will for their lives when it is right there in front of them; God’s will is bound up in “ALL THESE THINGS THAT ARE TAKING PLACE” so that God is glorified, not by the MIRACULOUS but by the MUNDANE. This applies to the regular and the mundane such as eating and drinking, washing the car, cooking dinner; every moment is a miracle of God’s providence, even in the way our physical body works.

1 Corinthians 10:31                         So then, whether you eat or drink, or WHATEVER YOU MAY DO, do all for the honour and glory of God.   (Refer to “PERFECTLY TIMED WHATEVERS”)

Gratitude is more than feeling thankful: it is a deep appreciation that produces longer lasting positivity. KJV uses the term “Gladness of heart” for the AMP “Gratitude.” We breathe twenty-five thousand times a day, and for how many of those breaths did we express gratitude today?

1 Corinthians 8:3                              But if one loves God truly [with affectionate reverence, PROMPT OBEDIENCE, (Another way of saying KEEP THE APPOINTMENTS  ..  Comments mine )  and GRATEFUL RECOGNITION of His blessing], he is known by God [recognised as worthy of His intimacy and love, and he is owned by Him].

5. THE RESULT OF THESE THINGS TAKING PLACE. We can either become “BITTER” or “BETTER”, but Father intends that we develop that skill of “Adherence, trust and reliance” that can only be cultivated in “ALL THESE THINGS.” The RESULT” as we have seen is extensive and comprised of those enviable characteristics so scant in the church society of today. The church “society” is different from the “Body of Christ” or “His church”, and maybe we have been looking in the wrong place for these “RESULTS”.

John 1:16                                             For out of His fullness (abundance) we have ALL received [all had a share and we were all supplied with] one grace after another and spiritual blessing upon spiritual blessing and even favor upon favor and gift [heaped] upon gift.

I have these gifts unwrapped? They are inherent but maybe “latent” and lay unused as “POTENTIAL.”

When writing to the Ephesian church, Paul was praying that they may “be strong to apprehend and grasp (Same as “Discern and recognise of Jeremiah 9:24)   the experience of God’s love, the breadth and length and height and depth of it”.

He goes on to explain in Ephesians 3:19 that it comes by “EXPERIENCE” (THE “THINGS TAKING PLACE  ..  Comments mine)  until we are “flooded with God himself.” That “EXPERIENCE” can only be found, learned and appreciated as we understand that “ALL THESE THINGS” is only another name for “EXPERIENCE.”

Ephesians 3:19                                  That you may REALLY (This is different to “Theoretical”  ..  comments mine) come] to know [PRACTICALLY, THROUGH EXPERIENCE for yourselves] the love of Christ, which far surpasses mere knowledge [without EXPERIENCE]; that you may be filled [through all your being] unto all the fullness of God [may have the richest measure of the divine Presence, and become a body wholly filled and flooded with God Himself]!

Can I ask, have your “EXPERIENCES” this week, no matter of what variety, such as work pressures, illness, responsibility, complaint, objection, resentment, have “ALL THESE THINGS” resulted in responses or reactions that other people were blessed, contributed through multiple gratitude, and were God-glorifying?

 

SELAH

 

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PERFECTLY TIMED “WHATEVERS” ROSS SMITH

PERFECTLY TIMED WHATEVER’S                                                                                             ROSS SMITH

ALL REFERENCES FROM AMPLIFIED VERSION UNLESS NOTED

The following notes are but a preamble to a very interesting event and only cover much of the superficial material, rich for exploration. I am not sure that we understand the significance of the “Wedding at Cana” for unexplained nuances make the event both interesting and significant, particularly in relation to “AWARENESS and TIMING.” Let me briefly highlight some of the instances before reaching my conclusions.

As an introduction, John in chapter 2 points out that “the mother of Jesus was there.” Superficially this does not seem significant; however, she appears to have been closely connected with the family celebrating the feast, suggested by her involvement regarding the deficiency in the wine, and her terse direction to the servants, but she  was “INVOLVED,”  NOT JUST THERE. We, too, can be “in attendance” but NOT INVOLVED.

Equally intriguing is that John identifies that this is the “third day”, not specifying the “third day of what.” Eastern weddings in that culture often stretched over an extended period, so was this the third day of the wedding, the third day of the week, for the third day of the month? Pay attention to detail, for there is a reason behinds John’s observation.

Almost as an oversight, we can hear John saying in verse 2, “Oh, by the way, Jesus and his disciples were there also.” John doesn’t indicate how many disciples, but chapter 1 infers there were 5,  nor does he indicate how many servants or how many guests! But he does indicate six levels of involvement, “mother, (Nothing about Joseph, maybe he had passed away)  Jesus, disciples, servants, manager and bridegroom.” All the rest, the guests, are only “extras.” This takes away any chance of class distinction in God’s administration, covering all bases and players in the scene; the “extras” will be observers and maybe even beneficiaries of God at work when we are “AWARE” of God at work. These were all “INVOLVED”, and we fit into one or another category, equally as important in the plan.

There is no indication as to who was getting married, but it can be concluded that it was a significant wedding hinted at by verse 6. It was being conducted under “JEWISH CUSTOM”, demanding “DECENCY AND ORDER according to the rules. And there were six waterpots holding up to 180 gallons; in our terms, that is over 800 Litres. Hence we can assume it was a “big bash.”

V 6                                                         “Now there were six waterpots of stone standing there, as the Jewish custom of purification (ceremonial washing) demanded, holding twenty to thirty gallons apiece.”

Three things emerge in this verse, (1) the pots were of stone, (2) The rules and proper order were being adhered to, (3) This “adherence” was not optional; it was “Demanded.”

The fact that the “waterpots”  were made of stone, not ceramic, is mentioned indicates the affluence of this wedding, the size and capacity demanding craftsmanship of significant degree, and so particularly valuable.

We should not assume that the miracle that followed resulted in 800 Litres of wine, for Jesus is unlikely to have countenanced overindulgence in any way, and maybe like the cruise of oil, the water emerged as wine ONLY AS WAS NECESSARY. Why do I reach this conclusion? Well, verse 8 makes it obvious, “Then He said to them, DRAW SOME OUT now and take it to the manager of the feast.” The expediency of such an instruction is not to be underestimated.

Mary’s statement to Jesus is, “THEY have no more wine.” Although Mary seems to have a prominent place in the conducting of this wedding, here she is “disowning” the problem. Still, her intervention acknowledges that it could be an embarrassment to the wedding party and seeks a solution. This “THEY”  are the “extras” addressed down further but not identified.

Who told Mary, and why did she need to know? Why was Mary so concerned about the lack of wine, did the host not order enough, or did the guests drink too much? All questions of conjecture. But research of the cultural norms of that day would probably provide answers, but the minutiae are there for our study and benefit.

When Mary spoke to the waiters, she did not give them any excuse, and dare I say, would not have accepted any excuse. This is where the event became interesting. Mary’s statement suggests to me a level of most unusual “AWARENESS”, maybe an “unconscious awareness”, borne out of the experience of Jesus’ in his formative years, when she says to the “waiters” in Verse 11, “WHATEVER HE SAYS TO YOU, DO IT.” A statement like this removes any restrictions that our objections may wish to include.

WHAT GOOD ADVICE FOR US TODAY? Mary didn’t ask for WINE; she asked for “WHATEVER”. In the Amplified Bible, the term “WHATEVER” occurs 86 times, and so here is an example of the great “WHATEVER”, a dimension outside of our mental agility and often considered outside our ability, but, “WHATEVER HE SAYS TO YOU, DO IT.”  Briefly, just two examples;

1 John 5:4                                           For WHATEVER is born of God is victorious over the world; and this is the victory that conquers the world, even our faith. (Adherence, trust and reliance, not only “victorious” but “conquers.”  ..  comments mine)

Colossians 3:17                                 And WHATEVER you do [no matter what it is] in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus and in [DEPENDENCE UPON] HIS PERSON,  (That same “Adherence, trust and reliance)    giving praise to God the Father through Him.

But why would Mary be so strident in her directions to the waiters? Up to this point in time, Jesus has never evidenced any miraculous powers. He has always been an outstanding son, even when He stood them up on the return visit from Jerusalem when 12 years old. He has shown wisdom and insight far beyond the normal but never had anything to do with catering before that we are aware of. He was certainly no sommelier, at least not before this event!

Mary has carried the promise of the angel for some decades now, and the “AWARENESS” or that profound and deep sense of expectancy that she is now enunciating is not borne out of experience but that inward resonation of the Holy Spirit like Paul in 1 Corinthians 2:4 (B), “a proof by the Spirit and power of God, operating on me and stirring in the minds of my hearers the most holy emotions and thus persuading them”. (The persuasion is “WHATEVER HE SAYS, DO IT!!!)

She was no doubt earnestly anticipating Jesus’ day of demonstration as the years rolled on, for it would be a day of vindication for her. She would address the issue on this occasion and then leave the matter with Jesus.

We are in that same situation; we have now carried the promises of God for some decades, the reminders come thick and fast, there are myriads perishing because we don’t have enough “WINE” of celebration for the “Extras” we need to invite to the wedding of His bride, and the Word puts it like this,

Matthew 9:17                                    Neither is new wine (I like to think of this new wine as “Inspiration”) put in old wineskins; (Our old habits and preconceptions and preferences  ..  comments mine) for if it is, the skins burst and are torn in pieces, (These constitute “Disasters” that await the above behaviour  ..  comments mine)  and the wine is spilled and the skins are ruined. BUT NEW WINE IS PUT INTO FRESH WINESKINS, AND SO BOTH ARE PRESERVED.

This “Cana wine” was very “NEW”, not even subjected to the maturity on the vine but of the utmost quality. These “FRESH WINESKINS” are new believers awaiting the “NEW WINE” we will miraculously bring to the table when we do as Mary said to the waiters, when we do our,  “WHATEVER He says,” and we “DO IT.”

So, what happens? Jesus responded to his mother in verse 4, basically saying, “well, why are you telling me?”  I get the same or similar response in my spirit at times when I try to bring some confronting truths to bear; the “pushback” is much the same, “why are you telling me?” We may not vocalise the sentiment, but dismissing it in our mind and spirit is the same thing.

I am not suggesting Jesus was at the wedding under sufferance, but that His mind was occupied with far more important things than some catering chaos. There was a tinge of disinterest in His response.

(ERV), “Dear woman, why are you telling me this – it is not yet time for me to begin my work.”

(CEV) Mother, my time hasn’t come yet! You must not tell me what to do.”

Sometimes that is our response to the agitation of the spirit, the repetitions of the same message, the stirring but suppression of our conscience, even if we know the situation to be relevant, “PLEASE DON’T TRY AND TELL ME WHAT TO DO.”

We can conclude from this dialogue that Mary knew more than is disclosed, whether by instinct, which is unlikely, nor by experience; Jesus never evidenced miraculous power before, but by that sensitivity and “AWARENESS” cultivated in her trust in God and the anointing on her Son promised by the angelic messenger. She reflected on her miraculous conception and relevant promises, thoughts germinating in her heart for years.

Luke 1:32-33                                      He will be great (eminent) and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give to Him the throne of His forefather David, (V33) And He will reign over the house of Jacob throughout the ages; and of His reign there will be no end.

Now,  because of her “belief”, that is, her “ADHERENCE, TRUST AND RELIANCE”  in the God who blessed her, she acknowledges and recognises that His intervention is required. Did she expect Jesus to turn the water into wine? I can’t imagine so, and I am sure Mary would not have let her mind go down such a mundane route.

Jesus, by His reply, identifies that His timing was of greater priority, and this was such a minor event compared to what He knew He had to do. His response suggests that He had matters of far greater consequence on His mind and this “wedding” was an intrusion and of little import?

Could Mary have conceived what was to take place? Most unlikely because she used the term “WHATEVER.” In so saying, she is divorcing her “reason” for the much higher dimension of “season.” She was somehow aware that things were winding up or down, whatever way you look at it.

There was resonating in her spirit the “AWARENESS” of the enormity of the inherent and regal power in the Son she bore, insight and discernment that He was ultimately wise, divinely equipped, not there by chance, stating, “WHATEVER He says,” and unquestioningly convinced, “just do it.”

How many “WHATEVER’S” have we been afforded? More importantly, how many more are we likely to receive if we ignore the instructions of God’s Word to “JUST DO IT”. The longer we procrastinate and defer to take up the challenge Father has laid at our feet, the more culpable we become.

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