For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs . . . (Romans 8:22, NKJV)
This morning at 5:30 a.m. EST the Midwest shook due to an earthquake that measured 5.2 on the rector scale. There are much bigger earthquakes on the west cost, but this was big for the Midwest. The center of the earthquake hit near West Salem, Illinois, and was felt as far west as St. Louis, Missouri, and as far east as Cincinnati, Ohio, where I live.
Our family slept right though. When I got up this morning I was surprised at our dog’s peculiar behavior . . . spooking at every little sound. When I went to check my emails I found out why. Mothers in our homeschool group where sending posts asking who felt the earthquake.
All day the news has been full of reports from people who woke up this morning by their bed shaking or rattling pots in the kitchen. Several called 911 concerned that someone was breaking into their house. But, I’ve only heard one woman say she thought the Lord had returned.
Paul told us that all of creation groans like a woman in labor anticipating His return. Today the Midwest felt a birth pang of the Lord’s coming. Does it bring you fear or anticipant praise?
Friday, April 18, 2008
Monday, April 7, 2008
Prepared for Peace
and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; (Ephesians 6:15, NKJV)
Some Christians take pleasure in being disagreeable. They conduct themselves in the attitude that conflict is a badge of honor. Yet the Bible tells us to wear shoes that are prepared to make peace. Armor is not necessary during a time of peace. Yet we are to be clad in full armor. How do we prepare for both war and peace at the same time?
Motives are at the heart of this command.
When we march into battle are we out to make enemies or defend truth? Are we more interested in “being right” in an argument or in sharing God’s truth with those who have never basked in the warmth of His unfailing love?
Blessed are the peacemakers, For they shall be called sons of God. (Matthew 5:9, NKJV)
But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, (Matthew 5:44, NKJV)
So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God. (James 1:19, 20 – NKJV)
Routine attitude checks are a must if we are to be obedient soldiers.
Some Christians take pleasure in being disagreeable. They conduct themselves in the attitude that conflict is a badge of honor. Yet the Bible tells us to wear shoes that are prepared to make peace. Armor is not necessary during a time of peace. Yet we are to be clad in full armor. How do we prepare for both war and peace at the same time?
Motives are at the heart of this command.
When we march into battle are we out to make enemies or defend truth? Are we more interested in “being right” in an argument or in sharing God’s truth with those who have never basked in the warmth of His unfailing love?
Blessed are the peacemakers, For they shall be called sons of God. (Matthew 5:9, NKJV)
But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, (Matthew 5:44, NKJV)
So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God. (James 1:19, 20 – NKJV)
Routine attitude checks are a must if we are to be obedient soldiers.
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