Asides

November 7
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Uncategorized Aside

“Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness.” (Hebrews 12:9-10, NIV)

God’s plan for you and me is that we become like Him.  This state is called “holiness,” and it was what God had in mind when He created us “in His image and after His likeness.” (Genesis 1:26a) Through the heritage of sin, we fall short of our original destiny.  

God is at work in us (always) through our circumstances (all of them) for our good. We aid the process through obedience to God. We hinder God’s work in us when we delay, debate, or detour.  

How do we know when to get involved — or when to get out? It begins with our full COMMITMENT to do whatever it is that God spirit leads us to do; and full CONFIDENCE in our heavenly Father’s plan for us.  – Luther

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November 6
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Uncategorized Aside

“Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? If you are not disciplined — and everyone undergoes discipline — then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all.” (Hebrews 12:7-8, NIV)

Even as flawed parents, we hope that our children will become as we are — only better. So, we allow various kind of inconveniences (of varying severity) to achieve that goal. Perfect in every way, our heavenly Father’s ultimate goal for you and me is that we become exactly like Him!

Whether we view the inevitable hardships of life as PUNISHMENT (as some do); or as PREPARATION (as others do), depends on the nature of our relationship with God. 

When difficulties and hardships invade your life, do you ask, “Why”; or do you say, “Why not”?  – Luther

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November 5
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Uncategorized Aside

“Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our ‘God is a consuming fire.’” (Hebrews 12:28-29, NIV)

The disciple of Jesus may inhabit the sands of time, but her destiny is firmly established on the bedrock of eternity. Although she is a temporary resident of earth, she is a permanent citizen of heaven.

Were we to survey the history of the world with a perspective of centuries or of millennia — instead of years, as we commonly do — we would more clearly see that all kingdoms and dynasties are temporary. We would also see that the kingdom of God, and the word of God, are enduring. 

For this reason, give thanks for God’s gift of a kingdom that cannot be shaken; for a king that cannot be bought; for a future that is certain, and that grows brighter with each passing day.  – Luther

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