Category Archives: Self Control

Holy / Set Apart, Intgegrity / Honesty, Just, Justice / Judgment, Psalms, Purposeful / Intentional, Self Control, Truth

A Life of Integrity: Committing to Righteousness in Every Area (Psalm 101)

How do you pursue a life of integrity when no one is watching?

In Psalm 101, David outlines a powerful commitment to live righteously before God, not just in public but also in private. This psalm challenges us to examine our own lives and dedicate ourselves to godliness in all we do.

Key Verse: “I will be careful to lead a blameless life—when will you come to me? I will conduct the affairs of my house with a blameless heart.” – Psalm 101:2 (NIV)

Background Context: Psalm 101 is often referred to as “The Psalm of the King’s Commitment” because it captures King David’s vow to uphold integrity and righteousness as a leader. Written as a personal declaration, this psalm expresses David’s desire to live a life that honors God and promotes justice and goodness in his home and kingdom. It reflects a deep commitment to holiness, integrity, and the rejection of evil. Though it speaks from the perspective of a king, its principles apply to anyone desiring to lead a life that pleases God.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Psalm 101

The Psalmist’s Profession of Uprightness.

A Psalm of David.

      1I will sing of lovingkindness and justice,
To You, O LORD, I will sing praises.

      2I will give heed to the blameless way.
When will You come to me?
I will walk within my house in the integrity of my heart.

      3I will set no worthless thing before my eyes;
I hate the work of those who fall away;
It shall not fasten its grip on me.

      4A perverse heart shall depart from me;
I will know no evil.

      5Whoever secretly slanders his neighbor, him I will destroy;
No one who has a haughty look and an arrogant heart will I endure.

      6My eyes shall be upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me;
He who walks in a blameless way is the one who will minister to me.

      7He who practices deceit shall not dwell within my house;
He who speaks falsehood shall not maintain his position before me.

      8Every morning I will destroy all the wicked of the land,
So as to cut off from the city of the LORD all those who do iniquity.

Reflection on Psalm 101:

  • A Commitment to Personal Integrity: The psalm begins with David’s personal resolution: “I will sing of your love and justice; to you, Lord, I will sing praise. I will be careful to lead a blameless life” (Psalm 101:1-2). David’s pursuit of integrity is not just a personal preference but an act of worship. He wants his life to reflect God’s character—His love and justice. This commitment to living blamelessly is not limited to public actions but extends to his private conduct. David’s resolve to lead a blameless life challenges us to examine whether we are pursuing righteousness in every area of our lives, even when no one else sees. Are we honoring God in our thoughts, words, and actions?
  • Integrity at Home and in Private: David emphasizes his desire to “conduct the affairs of my house with a blameless heart” (Psalm 101:2). Integrity begins at home and in private. What we do behind closed doors is just as important as what we do in public. True integrity is living in a way that pleases God even when there is no one to impress. This means that our private lives should match our public testimony. Are we acting with love, patience, and honesty in our homes? Are we honoring God with our choices when no one is around to hold us accountable? David’s commitment to live blamelessly at home sets a high standard for us to follow.
  • Rejecting Evil and Protecting Holiness: In verses 3-4, David expresses his resolve to turn away from evil and keep it far from his presence: “I will not look with approval on anything that is vile. I hate what faithless people do; I will have no part in it. The perverse of heart shall be far from me; I will have nothing to do with what is evil.” This speaks to a proactive stance against sin and compromise. David understands that to live a life that honors God, he must intentionally reject anything that corrupts or leads to sin. This challenges us to consider what we are allowing into our lives—our entertainment, conversations, relationships, and thought patterns. Are we tolerating things that dishonor God, or are we actively guarding our hearts and minds?
  • Upholding Justice and Truth: David’s commitment extends beyond his personal conduct to how he leads others: “Whoever slanders their neighbor in secret, I will put to silence; whoever has haughty eyes and a proud heart, I will not tolerate” (Psalm 101:5). David vows to uphold justice and truth in his community, refusing to tolerate slander, pride, or dishonesty. This reflects God’s heart for justice and righteousness. As followers of Christ, we are called to promote truth, justice, and love in our relationships and communities. We must be willing to speak against injustice and defend those who are mistreated or wronged, even when it is difficult or unpopular.
  • Choosing Companions Wisely: David concludes by declaring that he will only surround himself with those who are faithful and walk in integrity: “My eyes will be on the faithful in the land, that they may dwell with me; the one whose walk is blameless will minister to me” (Psalm 101:6). Our companions can have a significant influence on our walk with God. David’s resolve to choose his companions wisely is a reminder to us to surround ourselves with people who encourage us to grow in our faith and pursue righteousness. Who are the voices influencing your life? Are they leading you closer to God or pulling you away from Him? Being intentional about the company we keep is an essential part of living a life of integrity.

Summary Key Points:

  • Personal Integrity as Worship: David’s commitment to a blameless life is an act of worship, reflecting God’s love and justice in both private and public spheres.
  • Integrity Begins at Home: True integrity is demonstrated in private life and at home, not just in public. Our private conduct should honor God just as much as our public actions.
  • Rejecting Evil and Guarding Against Sin: David’s rejection of anything that is vile or evil challenges us to proactively guard our hearts and minds against sin and compromise.
  • Upholding Justice and Truth: Integrity means upholding justice, speaking truth, and refusing to tolerate slander, pride, or dishonesty in ourselves or those around us.
  • Choosing Faithful Companions: Our companions significantly impact our walk with God. Surround yourself with those who encourage you to grow in faith and pursue righteousness.

Application: Reflect on your own commitment to living a life of integrity. Are there areas where your private life doesn’t match your public testimony? Ask God to reveal any areas where compromise has crept in and to give you the courage to pursue righteousness in every area of your life. Consider what influences you are allowing into your heart and mind, and take intentional steps to reject anything that dishonors God. Finally, take time to evaluate your relationships and consider whether your companions are helping you grow in your walk with God. Choose to build your life on a foundation of integrity, so that your life reflects God’s character and brings glory to His name.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the example of integrity set by King David in Psalm 101. Help us to commit ourselves to living a blameless life, not just in public but also in private. Reveal any areas of compromise in our hearts and give us the courage to reject what is evil and pursue what is good. Guide us to be people who uphold truth, justice, and righteousness in all we do. Surround us with faithful companions who encourage us to grow in our relationship with You. May our lives reflect Your love, justice, and holiness, bringing glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Proverbs (Wisdom & Folly), Seeking God, Self Control, Tongue / Gossip / Slander, Unteachable / Foolish, Wise

The Power of Words: Building or Destroying (Proverbs 18)

Have you ever stopped to consider the immense power of words? In Proverbs 18, we delve into the profound impact our words can have on our lives and the lives of those around us.

Reconnect: Throughout the book of Proverbs, we’ve explored the timeless wisdom of King Solomon, learning valuable lessons for righteous living and navigating life’s complexities.

Proverbs 18 delves deep into the significance of our words, highlighting their potential to build up or tear down, to bring life or to cause destruction. Let’s uncover the wisdom it offers in harnessing the power of our speech.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Proverbs 18

Contrast the Upright and the Wicked

1He who separates himself seeks his own desire,
He quarrels against all sound wisdom.

      2A fool does not delight in understanding,
But only in revealing his own mind.

      3When a wicked man comes, contempt also comes,
And with dishonor comes scorn.

      4The words of a man’s mouth are deep waters;
The fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook.

      5To show partiality to the wicked is not good,
Nor to thrust aside the righteous in judgment.

      6A fool’s lips bring strife,
And his mouth calls for blows.

      7A fool’s mouth is his ruin,
And his lips are the snare of his soul.

      8The words of a whisperer are like dainty morsels,
And they go down into the innermost parts of the body.

      9He also who is slack in his work
Is brother to him who destroys.

      10The name of the LORD is a strong tower;
The righteous runs into it and is safe.

      11A rich man’s wealth is his strong city,
And like a high wall in his own imagination.

      12Before destruction the heart of man is haughty,
But humility goes before honor.

      13He who gives an answer before he hears,
It is folly and shame to him.

      14The spirit of a man can endure his sickness,
But as for a broken spirit who can bear it?

      15The mind of the prudent acquires knowledge,
And the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.

      16A man’s gift makes room for him
And brings him before great men.

      17The first to plead his case seems right,
Until another comes and examines him.

      18The cast lot puts an end to strife
And decides between the mighty ones.

      19A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city,
And contentions are like the bars of a citadel.

      20With the fruit of a man’s mouth his stomach will be satisfied;
He will be satisfied with the product of his lips.

      21Death and life are in the power of the tongue,
And those who love it will eat its fruit.

      22He who finds a wife finds a good thing
And obtains favor from the LORD.

      23The poor man utters supplications,
But the rich man answers roughly.

      24A man of too many friends comes to ruin,
But there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

Summary Key Points:

  • Words as Weapons: The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. This verse underscores the immense impact our words can have, either bringing life and encouragement or death and destruction.
  • Seeking Understanding: Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions. Here, we’re reminded of the importance of humility and listening to others, rather than always asserting our own views.
  • Choosing Wisdom: The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out. True wisdom comes from a humble and teachable heart, eager to learn and grow in understanding.
  • Seeking Refuge in the Lord: The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe. In times of trouble and uncertainty, we find refuge and security in the Lord’s presence and protection.

Call to Action:

  • Speak Life: Purposefully choose to speak words of encouragement, kindness, and affirmation to those around you. Your words have the power to uplift and inspire.
  • Listen with Empathy: Practice active listening, seeking to understand others’ perspectives before expressing your own opinions. Show empathy and compassion in your interactions.
  • Seek God’s Guidance: Turn to the Lord in prayer, seeking His wisdom and guidance in your speech and interactions. Allow His word to shape the words you speak and the attitudes of your heart.

As we reflect on the wisdom found in Proverbs 18, may we be mindful of the power of our words and the impact they have on ourselves and others. Let us strive to speak life, seek understanding, and find refuge in the Lord’s presence.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank you for the wisdom found in your word, especially in Proverbs 18. Help us to guard our tongues and use our words to bring life and encouragement to those around us. Grant us wisdom and discernment in our speech, and may our words reflect your love and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Humility, Intgegrity / Honesty, Lying / Deceiving, Pride, Proverbs (Wisdom & Folly), Self Control, Teachable, Tongue / Gossip / Slander, Unteachable / Foolish, Wise

Choosing Wisdom’s Path for Navigating Life (Proverbs 15)

Ever long for guidance in life’s complexities? Proverbs 15 offers timeless wisdom to illuminate our path and lead us toward understanding.

Reconnect: Proverbs, known for its practical insights and timeless truths, continues to offer wisdom for navigating life’s challenges. In Proverbs 15, we find a collection of proverbial sayings that delve into various aspects of human behavior, relationships, and character.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Proverbs 15

Contrast the Upright and the Wicked

1A gentle answer turns away wrath,
But a harsh word stirs up anger.

      2The tongue of the wise makes knowledge acceptable,
But the mouth of fools spouts folly.

      3The eyes of the LORD are in every place,
Watching the evil and the good.

      4A soothing tongue is a tree of life,
But perversion in it crushes the spirit.

      5A fool rejects his father’s discipline,
But he who regards reproof is sensible.

      6Great wealth is in the house of the righteous,
But trouble is in the income of the wicked.

      7The lips of the wise spread knowledge,
But the hearts of fools are not so.

      8The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD,
But the prayer of the upright is His delight.

      9The way of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD,
But He loves one who pursues righteousness.

      10Grievous punishment is for him who forsakes the way;
He who hates reproof will die.

      11Sheol and Abaddon lie open before the LORD,
How much more the hearts of men!

      12A scoffer does not love one who reproves him,
He will not go to the wise.

      13A joyful heart makes a cheerful face,
But when the heart is sad, the spirit is broken.

      14The mind of the intelligent seeks knowledge,
But the mouth of fools feeds on folly.

      15All the days of the afflicted are bad,
But a cheerful heart has a continual feast.

      16Better is a little with the fear of the LORD
Than great treasure and turmoil with it.

      17Better is a dish of vegetables where love is
Than a fattened ox served with hatred.

      18A hot-tempered man stirs up strife,
But the slow to anger calms a dispute.

      19The way of the lazy is as a hedge of thorns,
But the path of the upright is a highway.

      20A wise son makes a father glad,
But a foolish man despises his mother.

      21Folly is joy to him who lacks sense,
But a man of understanding walks straight.

      22Without consultation, plans are frustrated,
But with many counselors they succeed.

      23A man has joy in an apt answer,
And how delightful is a timely word!

      24The path of life leads upward for the wise
That he may keep away from Sheol below.

      25The LORD will tear down the house of the proud,
But He will establish the boundary of the widow.

      26Evil plans are an abomination to the LORD,
But pleasant words are pure.

      27He who profits illicitly troubles his own house,
But he who hates bribes will live.

      28The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer,
But the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things.

      29The LORD is far from the wicked,
But He hears the prayer of the righteous.

      30Bright eyes gladden the heart;
Good news puts fat on the bones.

      31He whose ear listens to the life-giving reproof
Will dwell among the wise.

      32He who neglects discipline despises himself,
But he who listens to reproof acquires understanding.

      33The fear of the LORD is the instruction for wisdom,
And before honor comes humility.

Summary Key Points:

  • Gentle Words Bring Healing: Just as a gentle answer can turn away wrath, the words we speak have the power to heal or harm. Let us choose our words carefully, speaking with kindness and wisdom.
  • The Lord Sees All: Nothing is hidden from the eyes of the Lord; He observes the ways of the wicked and the righteous alike. Let us live with integrity, knowing that God sees and rewards those who walk in righteousness.
  • Humility Leads to Honor: The path to honor begins with humility. Let us humble ourselves before God and others, recognizing our need for His grace and guidance.

Call to Action:

  • Embrace the Power of Gentle Words: Choose to speak words that build up and encourage others, rather than tearing them down.
  • Live with Integrity: Let your actions reflect your commitment to righteousness and truth, knowing that God sees and honors those who walk in integrity.
  • Cultivate Humility: Seek to cultivate a spirit of humility in your interactions with God and others, recognizing that true honor comes from walking humbly before Him.

As we apply the wisdom of Proverbs 15 to our lives, may we journey forward with faith and confidence, knowing that God’s guidance lights our path.

Closing Prayer: Gracious Father, we thank You for the wisdom found in Your Word, especially in the book of Proverbs. Help us to apply the teachings of Proverbs 15 to our daily lives, that we may walk in wisdom and live with integrity before You. Grant us the grace to speak gentle words, to live with humility, and to seek Your honor above all else. May Your Spirit guide us each step of the way. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Obeying God, Proverbs (Wisdom & Folly), Self Control, Teachable, Tongue / Gossip / Slander, Unteachable / Foolish, Wickedness / Evil, Wise

Wisdom’s Path: Righteousness, Teachability, and Self Control (Proverbs 13)

In the journey of life, we often seek guidance and direction to navigate its twists and turns.

Proverbs 13 serves as a beacon of wisdom, illuminating the path toward righteousness and prosperity amidst life’s challenges and temptations.

Reconnect:
As we delve into Proverbs 13, we are reminded of the timeless wisdom encapsulated in this collection of proverbial teachings. Building upon the foundational principles established in earlier chapters, Proverbs 13 continues to impart practical insights for righteous living and fruitful relationships.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Proverbs 13

Contrast the Upright and the Wicked

1A wise son accepts his father’s discipline,
But a scoffer does not listen to rebuke.

      2From the fruit of a man’s mouth he enjoys good,
But the desire of the treacherous is violence.

      3The one who guards his mouth preserves his life;
The one who opens wide his lips comes to ruin.

      4The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing,
But the soul of the diligent is made fat.

      5A righteous man hates falsehood,
But a wicked man acts disgustingly and shamefully.

      6Righteousness guards the one whose way is blameless,
But wickedness subverts the sinner.

      7There is one who pretends to be rich, but has nothing;
Another pretends to be poor, but has great wealth.

      8The ransom of a man’s life is his wealth,
But the poor hears no rebuke.

      9The light of the righteous rejoices,
But the lamp of the wicked goes out.

      10Through insolence comes nothing but strife,
But wisdom is with those who receive counsel.

      11Wealth obtained by fraud dwindles,
But the one who gathers by labor increases it.

      12Hope deferred makes the heart sick,
But desire fulfilled is a tree of life.

      13The one who despises the word will be in debt to it,
But the one who fears the commandment will be rewarded.

      14The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life,
To turn aside from the snares of death.

      15Good understanding produces favor,
But the way of the treacherous is hard.

      16Every prudent man acts with knowledge,
But a fool displays folly.

      17A wicked messenger falls into adversity,
But a faithful envoy brings healing.

      18Poverty and shame will come to him who neglects discipline,
But he who regards reproof will be honored.

      19Desire realized is sweet to the soul,
But it is an abomination to fools to turn away from evil.

      20He who walks with wise men will be wise,
But the companion of fools will suffer harm.

      21Adversity pursues sinners,
But the righteous will be rewarded with prosperity.

      22A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children,
And the wealth of the sinner is stored up for the righteous.

      23Abundant food is in the fallow ground of the poor,
But it is swept away by injustice.

      24He who withholds his rod hates his son,
But he who loves him disciplines him diligently.

      25The righteous has enough to satisfy his appetite,
But the stomach of the wicked is in need.

Summary Key Points:

  • The Way of the Righteous and the Wicked:
    Proverbs 13 contrasts the paths of the righteous and the wicked, emphasizing the consequences of their choices. Those who walk in integrity and righteousness find favor and blessings, while the treacherous and deceitful are ensnared by their own transgressions.
  • The Power of Words:
    This chapter highlights the significant impact of words on our lives and relationships. The wise exercise restraint in their speech, speaking words of knowledge and understanding, while the foolish are quick to utter folly, leading to their downfall.
  • The Value of Instruction and Correction:
    Wisdom calls us to embrace instruction and correction, recognizing their role in shaping character and guiding us toward maturity. The wise heed counsel and discipline, while the stubborn and foolish reject reproof to their own detriment.

Call to Action:

  • Guard Your Words:
    Take heed of the words you speak, ensuring that they reflect wisdom and kindness. Pause before speaking impulsively, and let your words be seasoned with grace and truth, building others up rather than tearing them down.
  • Embrace Teachable Spirit:
    Cultivate a spirit of humility and teachability, recognizing that wisdom is acquired through learning and correction. Be open to receiving guidance and instruction from those who walk in wisdom, and commit yourself to lifelong growth and development.
  • Choose the Path of Righteousness:
    Purposefully choose the path of righteousness and integrity in every area of your life. Seek to align your actions with God’s principles and values, knowing that obedience to His Word leads to blessings and fulfillment.

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the wisdom and guidance found in Your Word, especially in the book of Proverbs. Grant us the discernment to walk in righteousness and the humility to receive correction and instruction. May Your Word be a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path as we navigate life’s journey. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Drunkenness, Holy / Set Apart, Idols / False Gods, Repenting from Sin, Self Control, Traditions / Holidays, Worldliness

What is Mardi Gras and Should Christians Celebrate It?

What is Mardi Gras and why do so many Christians celebrate it? I grew up in a Catholic church and never could quite figure out how people could say that Mardi Gras was a “Christian holiday”. People broadly seemed to have accepted the concept that Christ wants us to embrace wild parties, drunkenness, public nudity, gluttony and other sinful behavior as a precursor to a period of repentance which follows.

Some may say that they only celebrate the parades, or they don’t participate or support the more offensive parts of Mardi Gras. However, it is all linked together as different levels of engagement in a clearly pagan festival. Does God like it if we only participate a little in some fun activities focused around a false god? What if we don’t do the “child sacrifice” but only dance before the idol or have a party on the day others sacrifice to the false god?

If it is not obvious enough that celebrating Mardi Gras is not a way to edify, honor, or lift up Christ then try a more academic exercise. Where in scripture did Jesus demonstrate or teach that we should sin greatly before a period of repentance? It’s not there. In fact, the opposite.

The call to repentance is real, but not the call to sin before it.

This does not even begin to touch on the focus that Mardi Gras puts on pagan gods associated with parades and other events.

Matthew 4:17

      17From that time Jesus began to preach and say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

Romans 6

      1What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin so that grace may increase? 2May it never be! How shall we who died to sin still live in it? 3Or do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus have been baptized into His death? 4Therefore we have been buried with Him through baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life. 5For if we have become united with Him in the likeness of His death, certainly we shall also be in the likeness of His resurrection, 6knowing this, that our old self was crucified with Him, in order that our body of sin might be done away with, so that we would no longer be slaves to sin; 7for he who has died is freed from sin.

      8Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him, 9knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, is never to die again; death no longer is master over Him. 10For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God. 11Even so consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus.

      12Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its lusts, 13and do not go on presenting the members of your body to sin as instruments of unrighteousness; but present yourselves to God as those alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God. 14For sin shall not be master over you, for you are not under law but under grace.

      15What then? Shall we sin because we are not under law but under grace? May it never be! 16Do you not know that when you present yourselves to someone as slaves for obedience, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin resulting in death, or of obedience resulting in righteousness? 17But thanks be to God that though you were slaves of sin, you became obedient from the heart to that form of teaching to which you were committed, 18and having been freed from sin, you became slaves of righteousness. 19I am speaking in human terms because of the weakness of your flesh. For just as you presented your members as slaves to impurity and to lawlessness, resulting in further lawlessness, so now present your members as slaves to righteousness, resulting in sanctification.

      20For when you were slaves of sin, you were free in regard to righteousness. 21Therefore what benefit were you then deriving from the things of which you are now ashamed? For the outcome of those things is death. 22But now having been freed from sin and enslaved to God, you derive your benefit, resulting in sanctification, and the outcome, eternal life. 23For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

We are called to righteousness and not to sin. How then can those in the church widely accept and embrace sin as a “Christian holiday”? The answer is that we have not followed the Lord’s instructions. He commands us not to learn the ways of the pagans and not to celebrate as they do. But all too often our common cultural holidays have been greatly influenced by pagan celebrations. The church has chosen to accept and blend pagan practices alongside or in place of how the Lord wants us to worship Him.

What Is Mardi Gras?

When Christianity arrived in Rome, religious leaders decided to incorporate these popular local traditions into the new faith, an easier task than abolishing them altogether. As a result, the excess and debauchery of the Mardi Gras season became a prelude to Lent, the 40 days of fasting and penance between Ash Wednesday and Easter Sunday.

Along with Christianity, Mardi Gras spread from Rome to other European countries, including France, Germany, Spain and England.

http://www.history.com/topics/holidays/mardi-gras

Deuteronomy 12:1-5

   1“These are the statutes and the judgments which you shall carefully observe in the land which the LORD, the God of your fathers, has given you to possess as long as you live on the earth. 2“You shall utterly destroy all the places where the nations whom you shall dispossess serve their gods, on the high mountains and on the hills and under every green tree. 3“You shall tear down their altars and smash their sacred pillars and burn their Asherim with fire, and you shall cut down the engraved images of their gods and obliterate their name from that place. 4“You shall not act like this toward the LORD your God. 5“But you shall seek the LORD at the place which the LORD your God will choose from all your tribes, to establish His name there for His dwelling, and there you shall come.

In order to choose to follow the Lord His way, which is the only true way to follow Him, then we must turn away from and reject pagan celebrations which have been blended with or replaced God’s instructions for how we are to worship Him and how we are to live. Let us not make excuses, accepting the lifestyle of the pagans as our own, no matter how long the family traditions have been established. When we start making exceptions, we often end up with things like Mardi Gras… many who claim to be Christian accept it and would defend it… but none can justify it based on scripture or God’s word. It has become part of the culture based on a historical choices and family traditions. Let us seek the Lord and the Lord’s way alone to live submitted to Him. Let us not blend with the ways of the pagans but rather turn back to our Lord wholeheartedly and without hesitation.

—-

Have you submitted your life to Jesus Christ? Are you living today filled with the peace and joy of truly knowing and following Jesus Christ? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Humility, Kindness / Gentleness, Money / Finances / Wealth, Psalms, Purposeful / Intentional, Self Control

Timeless Lessons from Psalm 39 for a Meaningful Life

Psalm 39 focuses on a few important themes we an apply to our lives today.

Life passes quickly. How we choose to spend it is important. Truly as we reflect, our natural tendency to strive for material wealth and accomplishment does not bring a harvest that is as lasting and important as we hope for.

We must cultivate mindfulness and a sense of urgency in how we live our lives. Focus on what truly matters, such as our relationships with others, acts of kindness, and positively impacting the world. Instead of getting consumed by temporary gains, we can strive to live a life of purpose and meaning, aware that our time here is limited.

Additionally, we should guard our speech. Especially, in the age of social media and digital interactions, the words we use can spread quickly and have a significant impact. Being mindful of our speech and using it to build others up rather than tear them down is a valuable lesson from Psalm 39 that can contribute to a more compassionate and understanding society.

Psalm 39

The Vanity of Life.

For the choir director, for Jeduthun. A Psalm of David.

1I said, “I will guard my ways
That I may not sin with my tongue;
I will guard my mouth as with a muzzle
While the wicked are in my presence.”

      2I was mute and silent,
I refrained even from good,
And my sorrow grew worse.

      3My heart was hot within me,
While I was musing the fire burned;
Then I spoke with my tongue:

      4“LORD, make me to know my end
And what is the extent of my days;
Let me know how transient I am.

      5“Behold, You have made my days as handbreadths,
And my lifetime as nothing in Your sight;
Surely every man at his best is a mere breath.

Selah.

      6“Surely every man walks about as a phantom;
Surely they make an uproar for nothing;
He amasses riches and does not know who will gather them.

      7“And now, Lord, for what do I wait?
My hope is in You.

      8“Deliver me from all my transgressions;
Make me not the reproach of the foolish.

      9“I have become mute, I do not open my mouth,
Because it is You who have done it.

      10“Remove Your plague from me;
Because of the opposition of Your hand I am perishing.

      11“With reproofs You chasten a man for iniquity;
You consume as a moth what is precious to him;
Surely every man is a mere breath.

Selah.

      12“Hear my prayer, O LORD, and give ear to my cry;
Do not be silent at my tears;
For I am a stranger with You,
A sojourner like all my fathers.

      13“Turn Your gaze away from me, that I may smile again
Before I depart and am no more.”

Remember the brevity of life and to live with intention, mindfulness, and kindness towards others. By doing so, we can make the most of our time and leave a positive legacy behind.

Shalom. May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you. Devotion by John in service to Christ

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Courage / Fear, False Prophets / Teachers, Self Control, Study the Word, Teachable

We Are Called to Challenge Perversion of the Gospel

There are many perversions in the way people (yes, even Christian churches) teach the gospel. As we do not have the benefit of relating directly to Paul as a living apostle to help keep our church leaders in check, we must rely largely on our own awareness and genuine study of the Bible to learn what is true and what is not. We then have the opportunity to get involved and help the church leadership to be held accountable to the truth of scripture. If the church you are in has leadership that refuses to engage and discuss scripture with you about possible differences of understanding or perspective, then it may be time to find another church. They should be prepared to give a defense for what they teach without getting defensive.

Some pastors are well aware they are not teaching the full gospel and it may be they simply need some encouragement and support in engaging the people in some topics. They know people do not always want to hear the full gospel as it makes them uncomfortable as it challenges them to repent and change. Others don’t care about the gospel and are teaching only for money or pride or some other reason. (Yes, some actually make quite a bit of money, but not your average pastor).  Some genuinely may understand the gospel differently and benefit from that Biblical discussion on scripture.

As always, remain humble, listen as well as talk when you engage. You, too, may have something to learn about the gospel that the pastor can help teach you.  Focus on scripture in resolving any difference of understanding. The attitude of “I went to seminary and you did not” is not a real answer. If seminary was helpful, then they should be able to explain with references to scripture that hold up to close scrutiny and study.

Galatians :1:6-10

Perversion of the Gospel

     6I am amazed that you are so quickly deserting Him who called you by the grace of Christ, for a different gospel; 7which is really not another; only there are some who are disturbing you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. 8But even if we, or an angel from heaven, should preach to you a gospel contrary to what we have preached to you, he is to be accursed! 9As we have said before, so I say again now, if any man is preaching to you a gospel contrary to what you received, he is to be accursed!

      10For am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ.

Seek the Father in prayer and pray for the Holy Spirit to open up the scriptures as you study. Ask for boldness and an appropriate loving attitude as you engage and challenge some of the teaching that you may have been taught since you were a child. Remember, as Paul highlights, we should seek to please God rather than men.

—-

Have you submitted your life to Jesus Christ? Are you living today filled with the peace and joy of truly knowing and following Jesus Christ? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Drunkenness, Holy / Set Apart, Idols / False Gods, Self Control, Traditions / Holidays, Worldliness

What is Mardi Gras and Should Christians Celebrate It?

What is Mardi Gras and why do so many Christians celebrate it? I grew up in a Catholic church and never could quite figure out how people could say that Mardi Gras was a “Christian holiday”. People broadly seemed to have accepted the concept that Christ wants us to embrace wild parties, drunkenness, public nudity, gluttony and other sinful behavior as a precursor to a period of repentance which follows.

Some may say that they only celebrate the parades, or they don’t participate or support the more offensive parts of Mardi Gras. However, it is all linked together as different levels of engagement in a clearly pagan festival. Does God like it if we only participate a little in some fun activities focused around a false god? What if we don’t do the “child sacrifice” but only dance before the idol or have a party on the day others sacrifice to the false god?

If it is not obvious enough that celebrating Mardi Gras is not a way to edify, honor, or lift up Christ then try a more academic exercise. Where in scripture did Jesus demonstrate or teach that we should sin greatly before a period of repentance? It’s not there. In fact, the opposite.

The call to repentance is real, but not the call to sin before it.

This does not even begin to touch on the focus that Mardi Gras puts on pagan gods associated with parades and other events.

Matthew 4:17

      17From that time Jesus began to preach and say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

Romans 6

      1What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin so that grace may increase? 2May it never be! How shall we who died to sin still live in it? 3Or do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus have been baptized into His death? 4Therefore we have been buried with Him through baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life. 5For if we have become united with Him in the likeness of His death, certainly we shall also be in the likeness of His resurrection, 6knowing this, that our old self was crucified with Him, in order that our body of sin might be done away with, so that we would no longer be slaves to sin; 7for he who has died is freed from sin.

      8Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him, 9knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, is never to die again; death no longer is master over Him. 10For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God. 11Even so consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus.

      12Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its lusts, 13and do not go on presenting the members of your body to sin as instruments of unrighteousness; but present yourselves to God as those alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God. 14For sin shall not be master over you, for you are not under law but under grace.

      15What then? Shall we sin because we are not under law but under grace? May it never be! 16Do you not know that when you present yourselves to someone as slaves for obedience, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin resulting in death, or of obedience resulting in righteousness? 17But thanks be to God that though you were slaves of sin, you became obedient from the heart to that form of teaching to which you were committed, 18and having been freed from sin, you became slaves of righteousness. 19I am speaking in human terms because of the weakness of your flesh. For just as you presented your members as slaves to impurity and to lawlessness, resulting in further lawlessness, so now present your members as slaves to righteousness, resulting in sanctification.

      20For when you were slaves of sin, you were free in regard to righteousness. 21Therefore what benefit were you then deriving from the things of which you are now ashamed? For the outcome of those things is death. 22But now having been freed from sin and enslaved to God, you derive your benefit, resulting in sanctification, and the outcome, eternal life. 23For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

We are called to righteousness and not to sin. How then can those in the church widely accept and embrace sin as a “Christian holiday”? The answer is that we have not followed the Lord’s instructions. He commands us not to learn the ways of the pagans and not to celebrate as they do. But all too often our common cultural holidays have been greatly influenced by pagan celebrations. The church has chosen to accept and blend pagan practices alongside or in place of how the Lord wants us to worship Him.

What Is Mardi Gras?

When Christianity arrived in Rome, religious leaders decided to incorporate these popular local traditions into the new faith, an easier task than abolishing them altogether. As a result, the excess and debauchery of the Mardi Gras season became a prelude to Lent, the 40 days of fasting and penance between Ash Wednesday and Easter Sunday.

Along with Christianity, Mardi Gras spread from Rome to other European countries, including France, Germany, Spain and England.

http://www.history.com/topics/holidays/mardi-gras

Deuteronomy 12:1-5

   1“These are the statutes and the judgments which you shall carefully observe in the land which the LORD, the God of your fathers, has given you to possess as long as you live on the earth. 2“You shall utterly destroy all the places where the nations whom you shall dispossess serve their gods, on the high mountains and on the hills and under every green tree. 3“You shall tear down their altars and smash their sacred pillars and burn their Asherim with fire, and you shall cut down the engraved images of their gods and obliterate their name from that place. 4“You shall not act like this toward the LORD your God. 5“But you shall seek the LORD at the place which the LORD your God will choose from all your tribes, to establish His name there for His dwelling, and there you shall come.

In order to choose to follow the Lord His way, which is the only true way to follow Him, then we must turn away from and reject pagan celebrations which have been blended with or replaced God’s instructions for how we are to worship Him and how we are to live. Let us not make excuses, accepting the lifestyle of the pagans as our own, no matter how long the family traditions have been established. When we start making exceptions, we often end up with things like Mardi Gras… many who claim to be Christian accept it and would defend it… but none can justify it based on scripture or God’s word. It has become part of the culture based on a historical choices and family traditions. Let us seek the Lord and the Lord’s way alone to live submitted to Him. Let us not blend with the ways of the pagans but rather turn back to our Lord wholeheartedly and without hesitation.

—-

Have you submitted your life to Jesus Christ? Are you living today filled with the peace and joy of truly knowing and following Jesus Christ? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Am I on the path?, Kindness / Gentleness, Love, Mercy, Purposeful / Intentional, Repenting from Sin, Self Control, Teachable

Clothe Yourselves with Mercy, Kindness, Humility, Gentleness, and Patience.

As Christians we are called to be a light to the world. To show others the path to Jesus Christ. All too often non Christians cannot tell the difference between Christians and the world by looking at how we live. Paul provides a meaningful call to action on how we should be living.

Colossians 3:1-17.

3 Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand. 2 Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. 3 For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 And when Christ, who is your[a] life, is revealed to the whole world, you will share in all his glory.

5 So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. 6 Because of these sins, the anger of God is coming.[b] 7 You used to do these things when your life was still part of this world. 8 But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language. 9 Don’t lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds. 10 Put on your new nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him. 11 In this new life, it doesn’t matter if you are a Jew or a Gentile,[c] circumcised or uncircumcised, barbaric, uncivilized,[d] slave, or free. Christ is all that matters, and he lives in all of us.

12 Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 13 Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. 14 Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.

16 Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. 17 And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.

It is difficult to add anything to such a well written passage. This is a scripture to dwell on and not to skim. I hope and pray you reflect on it and challenge yourself to answer the call that Paul (and Jesus) have extended to us in this scripture.

Church / Body of Christ, Holy Spirit / Ruach HaKodesh, Prophecy, Purposeful / Intentional, Self Control, Submitted / Servant, Teachable

All Things Must Be Done Properly and in an Orderly Manner.

I find this section of scripture fascinating and challenging to study. Paul lays out some specific instructions for conducting church in an orderly manner in 1 Corinthians 14. He addresses prophecy and speaking in / interpreting tongues with some interesting considerations that can certainly still be applied today. He also addresses a subject that is sure to make some people uncomfortable or even angry as he speaks regarding women remaining silent in church. For our culture, this is roundly rejected… but should it be? We truly should always challenge ourselves to study context to better understand if this specific instruction was generally applicable or applicable to the church of Corinth due to its specific situation at the time. In any case, the broader point is clearly that we should have order and not confusion in order to edify God, help the body of Christ, and draw in new believers to Christ.

1 Corinthians 14:20-40

Instruction for the Church

     20Brethren, do not be children in your thinking; yet in evil be infants, but in your thinking be mature. 21In the Law it is written, “BY MEN OF STRANGE TONGUES AND BY THE LIPS OF STRANGERS I WILL SPEAK TO THIS PEOPLE, AND EVEN SO THEY WILL NOT LISTEN TO ME,” says the Lord. 22So then tongues are for a sign, not to those who believe but to unbelievers; but prophecy is for a sign, not to unbelievers but to those who believe. 23Therefore if the whole church assembles together and all speak in tongues, and ungifted men or unbelievers enter, will they not say that you are mad? 24But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or an ungifted man enters, he is convicted by all, he is called to account by all; 25the secrets of his heart are disclosed; and so he will fall on his face and worship God, declaring that God is certainly among you.

      26What is the outcome then, brethren? When you assemble, each one has a psalm, has a teaching, has a revelation, has a tongue, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification. 27If anyone speaks in a tongue, it should be by two or at the most three, and each in turn, and one must interpret; 28but if there is no interpreter, he must keep silent in the church; and let him speak to himself and to God. 29Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others pass judgment. 30But if a revelation is made to another who is seated, the first one must keep silent. 31For you can all prophesy one by one, so that all may learn and all may be exhorted; 32and the spirits of prophets are subject to prophets; 33for God is not a God of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.

      34The women are to keep silent in the churches; for they are not permitted to speak, but are to subject themselves, just as the Law also says. 35If they desire to learn anything, let them ask their own husbands at home; for it is improper for a woman to speak in church. 36Was it from you that the word of God first went forth? Or has it come to you only?

      37If anyone thinks he is a prophet or spiritual, let him recognize that the things which I write to you are the Lord’s commandment. 38But if anyone does not recognize this, he is not recognized.

      39Therefore, my brethren, desire earnestly to prophesy, and do not forbid to speak in tongues. 40But all things must be done properly and in an orderly manner.

Don’t miss the broader point of the scripture about needing to proceed in an orderly manner for tongues and prophecy and teaching in the church, about needing an interpreter for tongues and so on. Don’t focus solely on the verse about women keeping silent and miss the broader point. God is a God of order and not of confusion. We must conduct ourselves as the body of Christ in an orderly manner.

Curious or upset by the command for women to keep silent in church? Want to explore it more? I encourage each of us submit our spirit to God, quiet our preconceived notions based on our local culture, pray for help and click through to more study resources to explore what Paul may have intended more closely. From the link provided, you can select different commentaries and study multiple perspectives or do you own search. I need to spend more time with it myself. The immediate context may be limited to speaking in tongues or prophesying or interpreting tongues in church setting, which was the topic Paul was addressing, but it is difficult to avoid the possibility that it may be broader than that associated with women not taking a leadership role or authority role over men in the church. The issue of submission for women is covered in 1 Timothy, Ephesians, and 1 Peter in addition to here in 1 Corinthians (refer to link above labeled “study resources”)… not to mention Genesis 3:16.

Try to sort through the topic without bias of “what you are used to” or “what our culture has taught you” or even “current church teaching”. Be teachable and submitted to God. Look not to emotions, but to what the scripture actually says and in what context. Don’t rush to judgement on this topic. Meditate on it. Study it. Pray.  It is not our role to agree or disagree with scripture (e.g. with God), but rather to study it and change our lives to reflect what God instructs. Look around, there are plenty of examples of commonly accepted church practices which are wildly out of step with scripture and God’s instruction… always has been. Look to scripture and God Himself.

Our challenge is to shape ourselves into God’s image, not to reshape Him into our own.

Spend time in prayer and ask God to reveal to you more discernment and wisdom on the specific instructions given here and on the broader topic of maintaining a proper and orderly manner in the body of Christ and in church.

—-

Have you submitted your life to Jesus Christ? Are you living today filled with the peace and joy of truly knowing and following Jesus Christ? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.