DailyBread: "Driving In The Dark"

Driving In The Dark

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January 17, 2011 — by Joe Stowell

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Our Daily Bread Radio is hosted by Les Lamborn

Read: Psalm 119:105-112

Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. —Psalm 119:105

Bible in a year:
Genesis 41-42; Matthew 12:1-23

I’ve always thought that I could get through just about anything if the Lord would tell me what the outcome would be. I believe that “all things work together for good” in the end (Rom. 8:28), but I’d do a lot better in dark times if I knew exactly what the “good” would look like.

But God usually doesn’t show us where He is taking us. He just asks us to trust Him. It’s like driving a car at night. Our headlights never shine all the way to our destination; they illuminate only about 160 feet ahead. But that doesn’t deter us from moving forward. We trust our headlights. All we really need is enough light to keep moving forward.

God’s Word is like headlights in dark times. It is full of promises we need to keep us from driving our lives into the ditch of bitterness and despair. His Word promises that He will never leave us nor forsake us (Heb. 13:5). His Word assures us that He knows the plans He has for us, plans for wholeness and not for evil, to give us “a future and a hope” (Jer. 29:11). And He tells us that our trials are there to make us better, not bitter (James 1:2-4).

So the next time you feel as if you’re driving in the dark, remember to trust your headlights—God’s Word will light your way.

The Word of God provides the light
We need to see the way;
It shows us what we need to know
So we won’t go astray. —Sper

You won’t stumble in the dark
if you walk in the light of God’s Word.

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RayStedman: "Mark: The Servant Who Rules"

Mark: The Servant Who Rules

The gospel of Mark is the most translated book of the Bible in all the world. No other book appears in as many languages. Almost all Wycliffe translators, after they have reduced a language to writing, begin their translation of the Scriptures with this gospel. I am sure that the fact that Mark is the shortest of the gospels has something to do with that decision! But it is also a fact that Mark is particularly suitable for introducing people of all backgrounds, classes, and tribes to the Scriptures. It is the one gospel of the four that is aimed at the Gentile ear.

A study of the gospel of Matthew reveals that it is written for the Jew, especially with its focus on the Old Testament and Jewish customs. But Mark was written for the Roman world, for the Gentile, for those who do not know the background of the Old Testament. Therefore, it is an instructive and helpful gospel to use in the initial approach.

Many scholars think that the gospel of Mark is the earliest New Testament Scripture we have. It was probably written sometime in the sixties of the first century, which would make it very early, going back to the beginnings of the Christian story. Scholars differ, however, as to whether Matthew or Mark wrote first, because it is hard to tell who borrowed from whom—Matthew from Mark, or Mark from Matthew.

We do know that this gospel was written by a young man named John Mark. His mother was named Mary, and she was a rather wealthy woman who had a big house in Jerusalem. In Acts 12, we are told that the early disciples held a large church prayer meeting in her house for Peter when he was imprisoned. We know that young John Mark was taken by Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey, traveling with them to the island of Cyprus. But for some reason Mark refused to go with them when they went on to the mainland of what today is Turkey. Instead, he went back to his mother's house. Paul was upset about that and evidently felt that Mark was a quitter. When it came time for them to go out again, although Barnabas wanted to bring Mark, Paul would not let him come. So they separated. Barnabas took Mark with him to Cyprus, and Paul and Silas went back to the areas where they had gone before. Then Mark drops out of sight for a time.

The next we hear of him, he is an associate of the apostle Peter, who speaks affectionately of this young man, calling him "my son Mark" in his first letter (1 Peter 5:13). Early church tradition tells us that Mark became the companion of Peter. Eusebius, a church father writing in the third century, says that the early Christians were so entranced with all the things Peter told them that they asked Mark to write them down. Perhaps that is how we got the Gospel According to Mark, for it reflects much of Peter's memories and experiences with Jesus.

Mark is fascinated with two qualities of Jesus that he gives to us in the first words of this gospel: "The beginning of the gospel about Jesus Christ, the Son of God" (Mark 1:1). Jesus of Nazareth, a carpenter, the human Jesus—but also the Son of God, the divine one. Mark seems to be fascinated by that combination: the Ruler who manifests His ability to serve, and the Servant who knows how to rule.

That, by the way, is how the book is organized. Mark is easy to outline, because the author gives us certain natural divisions, as we will see as we go along. It falls readily into two halves.

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RaulRies: "Love your enemies"

 

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

“But I say to you who hear: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, and pray for those who spitefully use you.”

Luke 6:27-28

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day has been a holiday of controversy since it was first recognized by President Ronald Reagan, on November 2, 1983. Although it was passed by Congress by an overwhelming 338 to 90 in the House of Representatives and 78 to 22 in the Senate, there were a number of states that chose not to observe the holiday. It was not until January 2000, the holiday was observed by all the states.

You may ask, “Why is this important?” I believe the importance lies in what Jesus was teaching in the verses above. We are to love our enemies. We are to love those who oppose us. Jesus taught us, it is easy to love our friends and families, but the true measure of our love is whether we love our enemies.

Whether you like or dislike Martin Luther King, Jr., we can all recognize him as a man who chose to love his enemies. He was a man who chose to follow the teachings of Christ. He was a man who served the people.

Many know him as the social activist who opposed racial discrimination, but many do not know the Christian man. King, Jr. was the pastor at the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama. It is obvious he was greatly influenced by his walk with the Lord and his study of the Bible, as his speeches often reflect the teaching style of Jesus.

Throughout the years, many things will be said of King, Jr., but his love for all people and his service to his community will always be remembered. How will you be remembered?

I have decided to stick with love.
Hate is too great a burden to bear.
-Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.-

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GodCalling: "God's Rush To Give"

God's Rush To Give

Love and Trust are the solvents for the worry and cares and frets of a life. Silence. Be silent before Me. Seek to know, and then to do My will in all things. Abide in My Love. An atmosphere of loving understanding to all men. This your part to carry out, and then I surround you with a protective screen that keeps all evil from you. It is fashioned by your own attitude of mind, words, and deeds, towards others. I want to give you all things, good measure, pressed down and running over. Be quick to learn. You know little yet of the Divine Impatience which longs to rush to give. Does one worrying thought enter your mind, one impatient thought? Fight it at once. Love and Trust are the solvents for the worry and cares and frets of a life. Apply them at once. You are channels and though the channel may not be altogether blocked, fret and impatience and worry corrode, and in time would become beyond your help. Persevere, oh! persevere. Never lose heart. All is well. "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto  thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him,  and he shall direct thy paths." - Proverbs 3:5,6 blessings to you and yours this day and always ... www.twolisteners.org Have you seen the free classic Christian books on the Two Listeners site? Contact by email:  servant@twolisteners.com  You may also choose to receive         God At Eventide or Thursday Treasures                - click the link at the bottom of this email to change your preferences. Now to Him who is able to keep you from falling, and to make you stand in the presence of His glory blameless with great joy, to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen. Jude 1:24-25

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RelationshipsQ&A: "How Do I Parent My Strong-Willed Child?"

Q and A is your opportunity to ask questions regarding the Bible, church, or just about anything regarding Christian faith and life. Submit questions on the response form in your bulletin or E-mail the Church Office.

How Do I Parent My Strong-Willed Child?

Posted @ 3/26/2010 2:38 PM By Melissa Bent 
Posted in [Parenting] | 0 Comments

The short answer is – by being a strong-willed parent! Too many parents are weak-willed and allow the stubbornness of their child to discourage them from their task of parenting. While I certainly understand that some kids can test the limits of even the most committed parent, the simple truth is – you are still the parent, and that “future leader” of yours desperately needs you to be in charge – whether they seem to like it or not! They need relationship; they need boundaries; they need consistency; and…they need creativity.

How to build relationship

This takes both quality and quantity time. Someone has rightly observed that the way you spell love is, T.I.M.E. I realize that this is not a popular message in a culture where exhausted parents are so busy. Again, someone has wisely pointed out that busyness may be an indication that you are Bound Under Satan’s Yoke!  If hearing this makes you “squirm” a bit, please understand that it’s not intended to discourage or condemn, but rather, to challenge. The simple truth is ALL of us have a tendency to get our priorities “out of whack”!  A little self-evaluation is perfectly healthy and even necessary in family life, because we are prone to distraction. We often substitute what is best for that which seems good. Here is a list of ideas that may help return some balance to your parenting, while building relationship with your child:

• Address their physical needs. Make sure that your child is living a healthy lifestyle with a good, balanced diet, plenty of exercise and rest. Maintain an additional balance of hard work (chores) and hard play!  Keep in mind that children do need an outlet for all of that boundless, God-given energy and creativity. I believe that some of what passes today as “ADHD”-like behavior may simply be kids acting like kids!

Note: I say this respectfully and with full awareness that there are, no doubt, some situations where a child may have genuine medical issues. In such cases, medical solutions would be in order. If you suspect this to be the case, get your child in for a physical evaluation. However, even in such cases, your child-training techniques should also be addressed.

• Stop “entertaining” them to death!  Turn off the T.V. and video games, play interactive games, and do more “hands on” activities together that facilitate conversation and the building of relationship.
• Adjust your expectations up or down, as necessary. Some parents are simply ignorant about what their child is capable of. Kids are usually capable of a lot more than we give them credit for, but it means that we must take the time to teach and train. On the other hand, you may be demanding something of them that they simply aren’t ready for. How do you know which way to adjust your expectations?  If you are a parent of fairly young children, one of the simplest ways might be to talk with an older, more experienced parent. However, there is just no substitute for consistent training. You must spend time doing things together, being intentional about teaching your child. As you do, you will get a good idea of what their true needs and abilities are.      
• Be patient in the process of training. Many parents unrealistically expect their child to automatically behave themselves just because they “said so”!  Telling a strong-willed child to behave isn’t enough. Don’t waste precious time and energy being the threatening and repeating parent. You have to back up your instruction with clear boundaries, training, and discipline. Boundaries protect and define your child’s freedom. Training gives them the consistent and much-needed practice at doing what’s right. Discipline helps them learn from life. They experience consequences that instill character and teach life skills when they’ve done what’s wrong.
• Do chores together with them. Discuss the values of being a good worker, as well as the benefits and satisfaction of a job well done. Much of what I learned from my mother while growing up, I learned as we simply talked about life while working side-by-side. This is how she passed on her values and wisdom, and much of the time, probably without even knowing it!  It’s true – often times “Idle hands are the devil’s workshop”. By working together with your strong-willed child, you keep their minds and bodies busy in positive and productive ways, protecting them from temptations that abound when they are “bored”. Furthermore, the Bible teaches that “…perseverance…leads to proven character” (Rom. 5:1-2). Sometimes the perseverance and proven character (e.g. willingness to cooperate) that your child needs is best learned through hard work. Sometimes it is enjoyable, other times it’s not, but either way – it provides a wonderful training ground for that child who is a challenge.
• Give them age-appropriate responsibility & freedom. This is especially important for building character, confidence, and trust in your child. Freedom and responsibility go together. This gives your child a sense of adventure and hope for their future. It also builds relationship over time because it communicates “I believe in you” to your child.
• Praise them for what they do well, but avoid mere “flattery”. Sometimes, in an effort to give positive affirmation, parents go “overboard” with too much praise and it only tempts a child to be more selfish and demanding. On the other hand, your kids need to hear that you are pleased with them. “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver” (Proverbs 25:11).
• Praise them for good character more than performance. Examples might be: self-control, kindness, sensitivity, hard work, gentleness, honesty, contentment, gratitude, cooperation, and responsibility. Rather than focusing on things like “Straight A’s”, you might say something like,“Wow!  That’s excellent, honey!  These grades reflect that you not only understand your subjects in school, but you understand the importance of hard work and responsibility. You are really growing up!  With that kind of attitude, you will do well in life.”
• Practice doing things for others. Observe and discuss how people respond when we are kind, considerate and gentle toward them. The joy and gratitude of others when we do what’s right is a reward in itself. Though strong-willed children often seem not to care about what others think (and, in fact, at first, they may not) – practice doing the right thing, over time, will influence what they believe in their hearts. Eventually, they learn (through consistent training) to care, and find joy in doing so.
• Give regular physical affection. Sometimes this means holding your child in your lap while quietly rocking them in your favorite chair. Other times, silliness, tickling, or “horsey rides” are just what a strong-willed child needs. Probably, a bit of both are necessary. For older kids, it might be a gentle back scratch while you pray for them and tuck them into bed at night, or a spontaneous shoulder rub while they’re sitting at the computer doing their homework. Some kids leave the impression that they don’t want or need any kind of healthy touch or affection. Depending upon the child, and their experiences in life, you may have to respect certain “boundaries”; however, in most cases a strong-willed child (or any child, for that matter) needs regular displays of affection. It contributes to their overall sense of security and well-being. For some, the lack of physical affection is part of the reason they are acting out in negative ways for attention.
• Read, listen to, and tell stories to them. For young ones, allow them some freedom to move as long as they are listening, and aren’t doing things to be obnoxious or overly distracting. Choose colorful, interesting stories and characters with exciting plots and good themes. A terrific resource on CD that we’ve enjoyed over the years is the “Adventures in Odyssey” series from Focus on the Family. Include true stories from your own life!  These will become great teaching tools as your children grow, but they also help build trust and relationship.
• Prepare and enjoy meals together. It doesn’t have to be elaborate, and don’t make a big deal of “messes”. It’s been said, “More meals are ruined at the table than at the stove.”  Remember, “We don’t cry over spilled milk”, and manners, though important, shouldn’t be the main focus at mealtime. Make a big deal of what they prepare, even if it’s not quite “gourmet”!  I recommend “Google” as a resource for spontaneous “knock-knock” jokes and other funny stories that you can bring to the dinner table. The point is – make mealtimes fun!  It will get your kids talking, and ultimately help build closeness in family life.
• Enjoy and laugh with your children!  Hint: part of this has to do with your attitude; the other part has to do with your training. You only have one shot at raising your kids – don’t miss it!  Every parent faces a set of challenges. Don’t let those challenges steal your joy, but rather, embrace them. Furthermore, if you are lazy in the training department, don’t be surprised if your children aren’t very enjoyable to be around. Well-trained children are easy to enjoy, and joyful, attentive parents are much easier to obey and honor.
• Have a regular, special bedtime routine. Read the Bible to them at bedtime, pray together, and tuck them in. This is a great time for snuggles, kisses and hugs, and back scratches. Honestly, some of my most precious moments as a father, have come during this time. I wouldn’t trade it for world, and it’s sad to me that so many parents miss this opportunity to connect with their child’s heart.
• Have regular “Family Nights”. Depending on the family schedule, this might work out to be each week or once a month, but do something on a regular basis where you carve out time to simply be together as a family. Play games, make cookies or pop-corn, and watch movies with good, redemptive themes. When it comes to games, our personal family favorite is “Hide-n-Seek” in the dark!  A bit risky, but good times for sure!
• Step into your child’s world. Take time to notice what they enjoy, and set aside time every so often to simply do that with them – even if it’s not something you particularly enjoy. It communicates honor and builds relationship. It says, “I value you”. If you’ve never done this, it might be just the thing that helps your strong-willed child begin to open up and become more cooperative. Remember, it’s all about relationship.

How to set boundaries

• Evaluate and adjust (where necessary) your own life’s example. Pay attention to the “freedoms” you have, which may actually be compromises that confuse your child. The point is – don’t live a life of inconsistency or hypocrisy. If you want your child to share your values, then demonstrate values worth sharing!  This will give you much more credibility in their eyes when you set boundaries for them. When parents adopt a “Do as I say, not as I do” approach to parenting, they foolishly provoke their children to anger, and ultimately train them to live by that same double-standard.
• Develop a plan that is both flexible and timeless. The plan needs to be flexible in the sense that it can be adjusted or “customized” to fit the needs of each child as they grow. Obviously, boundaries have to be changed as our children enter new stages and demonstrate maturity in different areas of life. However, the plan also needs to be timeless in the sense that it is rooted in biblical principles. God’s nature doesn’t change, nor does the truth in His Word. Our parenting plan should always be, in one way or another, a reflection of how God “parents” us. As already mentioned, strong-willed kids need stronger-willed parents!  This simply means that we remain anchored in God’s Word, and vigilant in our commitment to represent Him in all that we do. Be as gentle as possible, but as firm as necessary!      
• Write down some simple family rules. Post them in a visible place for quick, easy reference and reminders – for you and the kids. I recommend a short list of rules that “covers all the bases”. For example: 1. Obey and honor. 2. Be Kind. 3. Respect others. These rules form an “umbrella” that nearly all behaviors and attitudes will fit under. Keep in mind, rules without relationship lead to rebellion.

Note: Help your children understand their basic job description biblically: obey & honor (Eph. 6:1-3). Obedience demonstrates respect for the parent’s position of authority. Honor demonstrates value for the person in authority. Obedience deals with behavior while honor deals with the heart of your child.

• Have a Family Meeting. Clearly communicate any changes or new direction you are making as a family. It’s unfair to “change the rules in the middle of the game”. Keep the meeting short and simple, while fostering a sense of “teamwork” and family identity. Help them understand how these changes will both honor God and bless each member of the family. Give kids the opportunity to share, but don’t allow them to manipulate, intimidate, or distract you from your goal.

How to maintain consistency

There are two factors that have the greatest influence on whether or not you keep this “cardinal rule” of parenting. The first one is your relationship with Christ; the second is your own personal discipline.

When it comes to parenting a strong-willed child, your willingness to persevere must be motivated by something or Someone greater than yourself. The Bible reassures you that God has given youeverything you need for the task at hand (2 Peter 1:3-4). However, the supernatural resources the Lord promises are available only as you are rightly related to Him.

It is only as you nurture your relationship with Him (through regular prayer and meditation in His Word) that you will find the resources you need to be an effective parent. You don’t need another “checklist” of things to do!  Your greatest need is Jesus Himself, and your ability to faithfully love and train your strong-willed child depends upon whether or not you are abiding in Christ. The plain truth is, apart from Him, we can do nothing (John 15:5)!

Assuming a right relationship with Christ, the next issue becomes a matter of simple obedience, and this means personal discipline. The Bible exhorts you, “…exercise yourself toward godliness” (1 Timothy 4:7). This means that your priorities must line up with God’s priorities. It means the way you spend your time, energy and resources must be in keeping with God’s Word. It means that you choose to obey Him even when you don’t feel like it. It is only as you are disciplined in your mindset and approach to parenting that you will find yourself providing the consistency that your children need.

How to parent creatively

My personal experience has been that creativity is at least as important as consistency in the process of parenting. The humbling, and sometimes startling truth is – each child is unique!  Anyone who has more than one child has marveled at just how different each one is. We ask ourselves, “Did this child really come from our DNA?”  So, what are some creative ideas for parenting the so-called “strong-willed” child?

Creative Idea #1: Train up your child in the way he should go… 
This means pay attention to your child’s personality, temperament, and interests; in short, notice the way God has made him or her. Too many times, out of our own convenience, we attempt to fit this particular child into the same “mold” as their sibling(s) or peers. Don’t be afraid, or too lazy, to try new things and explore what makes this kid “tick”!  Just because you and your first 2 or 3 kids enjoy sports, doesn’t mean that this child is going to. Maybe God has gifted them musically, artistically, or intellectually in ways that will require a different investment of your time, energy, and resources. Be flexible and teachable on this point, and let them stretch you into new areas of discovery.

In a similar way, some kids are outgoing and confident, while others seem to hold back, needing some time to observe things a bit and that’s okay. Without “coddling” them, give them a little more space and time. Be patient while encouraging them to try new things. There’s no question that this takes more time, thoughtfulness, energy, and perhaps even the help of others, but it will be worth it in the end. God didn’t make a mistake with this child!  If you have a child who “broke the mold” – you can be sure it is by God’s design. Undoubtedly, He’s using this child to teach you some things, so pay attention. Very likely, this is the child you will be most indebted to in heaven because they kept you on your knees, humble before God, constantly aware of your need for His grace!

Creative Idea #2: Enlist the help of others 
If you are a Christian, one of the greatest gifts you have is being part of God’s family. You have a real advantage over most parents since you are already surrounded by others who share your spiritual values, and have walked the parenting path ahead of you. They are some of the most valuable, yet overlooked resources available to parents these days. There is no good reason that you have to wonder aimlessly in your parenting journey. Take advantage of the wisdom and experience of others. You will be blessed!

If you don’t already have a parenting support group or ministry at your church, it may be that God would use you to start one!  The good news is you don’t have to “reinvent the wheel”!  I recommend that you check out the National Center for Biblical Parenting website: www.biblicalparenting.org for more information on how to start an Effective Parenting Support Group. They have all the resources necessary to get you started.

Parents are often encouraged to find that others have dealt with the very same challenges they are facing, and have discovered solutions they are more than happy to share. Likewise, it is rewarding to help others with the wisdom you have gained in life. There is a wealth of creativity and wisdom, not to mention prayer support, when parents gather together with a common goal of becoming more effective parents. This is a wise investment of your time, energy, and resources.

Creative Idea #3: Take advantage of proven parenting resources 
There is so much good material out there for parents who are willing to do a little homework, and you don’t have to spend tons of time and money!  I recommend the following ministries and their websites:

• The National Center for Biblical Parenting – www.biblicalparenting.org
• www.successfulstepfamilies.com
• Sheridan House Family Ministries – www.sheridanhouse.org
• Shepherding a Child’s Heart (Book) – Tedd Tripp
• No Greater Joy Ministries – www.nogreaterjoy.org
• Grace Based Parenting (Book) – Tim Kimmel
• www.familymatters.net
• Doorpost Ministries – www.doorposts.com
• Sacred Parenting (Book) – Gary Thomas

About the Author

Jon Sanné is a Presenter for the National Center for Biblical Parenting, and the Family Life Pastor at Calvary Chapel in Olympia, WA, where he has served for the past 16 years.  He believes that the family is God’s training ground for both parents and children as they learn and grow together in everyday life.  Although there is no such thing as a perfect parent, Jon will share how you can be asuccessful one!

Posted via email from Christian Issues Digest

RelationshipsQ&A: "When my husband comes home and is tired after work... it's hard to have physical intimacy and feel connected. What do I do?"

Q and A is your opportunity to ask questions regarding the Bible, church, or just about anything regarding Christian faith and life. Submit questions on the response form in your bulletin or E-mail the Church Office.

When my husband comes home and is tired after work... it's hard to have physical intimacy and feel connected. What do I do?

Posted @ 3/29/2010 1:37 PM By Melissa Bent 
Posted in [Family], [Romance], [Marriage], [Intimacy] | 0 Comments

Q. When my husband comes home and is tired after work, I have been home with little ones all day. He doesn't want to talk, and that's all I want to do is talk with him and share my thoughts and feelings and my day. It hurts me and then he wants intimacy and I don't want it at all. I feel so emotionally cut off from him and so it's hard to have physical intimacy and feel connected. What do I do?

A. This is a very common issue in marriage. It is important to remember that men and women are sexually and emotionally wired completely differently. This is not an excuse for a man to be insensitive to his wife, but most men feel sex is a great way to connect with their wife, (and may be very ready to talk afterwards) and most wives feel they need to be connected verbally and emotionally to their husbands before even considering sex. Do you see the dilemma? Some one (hopefully both) need to love sacrificially. It is important to express our needs to one another, and also take pro active practical steps.

I believe that if men could remember that women need time to talk they would have more sex with their wife. One thing that might be helpful is to make plans together for date nights even if you are not leaving the house. This way both of you can plan on spending time together and purposefully and mentally anticipate what the date will bring. To do this, most of us have to make lots of arrangements, getting kids to bed and so on. It is so easy to get caught in a rut in marriage, but we have to be strategic and get that quality time on the calendar. This may not sound very romantic or spontaneous, but the principal of sewing and reaping applies. Work hard to plan and create atmosphere for intimacy instead of just expecting it to happen. Some times our expectations about these things can be very unrealistic and we become disappointed and distant with our spouse.

Posted via email from Christian Issues Digest

RelationshipsQ&A: "Do You Parent Foster Children Differently?"

Q and A is your opportunity to ask questions regarding the Bible, church, or just about anything regarding Christian faith and life. Submit questions on the response form in your bulletin or E-mail the Church Office.

Do You Parent Foster Children Differently?

Posted @ 4/6/2010 3:23 PM By Melissa Bent 
Posted in [Family], [Parenting] | 0 Comments

In some ways…yes.

It really depends upon the condition of the child.  Because of things like neglect and abuse, foster children often come with physical, mental, or emotional “baggage” that requires a special ministry of compassion which simply may not be as necessary for children who have grown up in healthier environments.  This ministry of compassion will require an extrameasure of things like wisdom andlongsuffering. 

Though God didn’t create life itself to be complicated, sin and its effects certainly can and do complicate life!  When children have been neglected and/or abused in various ways, they often require more focused attention and care.  This can be a startling and discouraging discovery for a foster parent, but it need not be.  If you take the time to educate yourself on some of the potential pitfalls of foster parenting, you will, no doubt, save yourself a lot of frustration.  Talk with other experienced foster parents, and avail yourself of the resources provided at www.biblicalparenting.org.  Author and speaker, Dr. Scott Turansky, having raised two adopted daughters of his own, also speaks to this subject.

Another factor that affects how you fulfill your role as a foster parent has to do with understandingauthority.  Because the State plays a significant role in the welfare of the foster child, you are limited in the area of discipline.  For example, in some states, you may not have the same freedom to spank your foster child as you would your own biological child.

In some ways…no.

The reality is kids, regardless of their circumstance or history, still have the same fundamental need to be loved, trained, and protected as they learn and grow through life.  If you are faithful to do these things, you will have a fruitful ministry in the life of a child – one that will be rewarded eternally!  Jesus said, “And whoever welcomes a little child like this in my name welcomes me” (Matt. 18:5). NIV

About the Author

Jon Sanné is a Presenter for the National Center for Biblical Parenting, and the Family Life Pastor at Calvary Chapel in Olympia, WA, where he has served for the past 16 years.  He believes that the family is God’s training ground for both parents and children as they learn and grow together in everyday life.  Although there is no such thing as a perfect parent, Jon will share how you can be asuccessful one!

Posted via email from Christian Issues Digest

The Rapture Series: Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth "THE JEW, THE GENTILE, AND THE CHURCH OF GOD" -Scofield

The Rapture Series

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“Reason to Believe”

Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth

THE JEW, THE GENTILE, AND THE CHURCH OF GOD

 

Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God -- I Corinthians 10:32

Whoever reads the Bible with any attention cannot fail to perceive that more than half of its contents relate to one nation: the Israelites. He perceives, too, that they have a distinct place in the dealings and counsels of God. Separated from the mass of mankind, they are taken into covenant with Jehovah, who gives them specific promises not given to any other nation. Their history alone is told in Old Testament narrative and prophecy; other nations are mentioned only as they touch the Jew. It appears, also, that all the communications of Jehovah to Israel as a nation relate to the Earth. If faithful and obedient, the nation is promised earthly greatness, riches, and power; if unfaithful and disobedient, it is to be scattered 11 among all people, from the one end of the earth even unto the other" (Deut. 28:64). Even the promise of the Messiah is of blessing to "all the families of the Earth."

Continuing his research, the student finds mention in Scripture of another distinct body, which is called the church. This body also has a peculiar relation to God and, like Israel, has received from Him specific promises. But similarity ends there, and the most striking contrast begins. Instead of being formed of the natural descendants of Abraham alone, it is a body in which the distinction of Jew and Gentile is lost. Instead of the relation being one of mere covenant, it is one of birth. Instead of obedience bringing the reward of earthly greatness and wealth, the church is taught to be content with food and raiment, and to expect persecution and hatred; it is perceived that just as distinctly as Israel stands connected with temporal and earthly things, so distinctly does the church stand connected with spiritual and heavenly things.

Further, Scripture shows the student that neither Israel nor the church always existed; each had a recorded beginning. The beginning of Israel he finds in the call of Abram. Looking then for the birth of the church he finds (contrary, perhaps, to his expectations, for he has probably been taught that Adam and the patriarchs are in the church) that it certainly did not exist before, nor during, the earth life of Christ, for he finds Him speaking of His church as yet future when He says (Matt. 16:18), "Upon this rock I will build my church." Not, have built, nor am building, but will build.

He finds, too, from Ephesians 3:5-10, that the church is not once mentioned in Old Testament prophecy, but was, in those ages, a mystery "hid in God." Scripturally, he finds the birth of the church in Acts 2, and the termination of its career on the earth in I Thessalonians 4.

The student also finds, in the scriptural division of the race, another class, rarely mentioned, and distinguished in every respect from either Israel or the church: the Gentiles. The comparative position of the Jew, the Gentile, and the church may be briefly seen in the following Scriptures: the Jew (Rom. 9:4-5; John 4:22; Rom. 3:1-2); the Gentile (Eph. 2:11-12; Eph. 4:17-18; Mark 7:27-28); the Church (Eph. 1:22-23; Eph. 5:29-33; 1 Pet. 2:9).

Comparing, then, what is said in Scripture concerning Israel and the Church, he finds that in origin, calling, promise, worship, principles of conduct, and future destiny that all is contrast. Compare first the calling of Israel with that of the church.

ISRAEL

Now the LORD had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house unto a land that I will show thee (Gen. 12: 1).

For the LORD thy God bringeth thee into a good land, a land of brooks of water, of fountains and depths that spring out of valleys and hills; a land of wheat, and barley, and vines, and fig-trees, and pomegranates; a land of oil olive, and honey; a land wherein thou shalt eat bread without scarceness (Deut. 8:7-9).

And he said, I am Abraham's servant. And the LORD hath blessed my master greatly, and he is become great; and he hath given him flocks, and herds, and silver, and gold, and men-servants, and maid- servants, and camels, and asses (Gen. 24:34-35).

The LORD shall cause thine enemies that rise up against thee to be smitten before thy face: they shall come out against thee one way, and flee before thee seven ways (Deut. 28:7). And the LORD shall make thee the head, and not the tail; and thou shalt be above only, and thou shalt not be beneath (Deut. 28:13).

CHURCH

Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling (Heb. 3: 1).

For our conversation is in heaven (Phil. 3:20).

And Jesus saith unto him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head (Matt. 8:20).

To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you (I Pet. 1:4).

Even unto this present hour we both hunger, and thirst, and are naked, and are buffeted, and have no certain dwelling-place (I Cor. 4: 11).

And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God! (Mark 10:23).

Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? (James 2:5).

They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service (John 16:2).

Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven (Matt. 18:4).

Of course it is not meant that a godly Jew did not, at death, go to heaven. The distinction is that the incentive to godliness in his case was earthly blessings, not heavenly. It should be needless to say that, in this dispensation, neither Jew nor Gentile can be saved otherwise than by the exercise of that faith on the Lord Jesus Christ whereby both are born again (John 3:3, 16) and are baptized into that "one body" (I Con 12:13) which is "the church" (Eph. 1:22-23). In the church the distinction of Jew and Gentile disappears. (I Cor. 12:13; Gal. 3:28; Eph. 2:14. So in writing to the Ephesians the apostle speaks of them as "in time past Gentiles," Eph. 2:11; 1 Cor. 12:2, also says, "ye were Gentiles.")

The contrast between Israel and the church further appears in the rules given for the conduct of each.

ISRAEL

When the LORD thy God shall bring thee into the land whither thou goest to possess it, and hath cast out many nations before thee . . . thou shalt smite them, and utterly destroy them: thou shalt make no covenant with them, nor show mercy unto them (Deut. 7:1-2).

Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burning for burning, wound for wound, stripe for stripe (Exod. 21:24-25).

CHURCH

But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you (Matt. 5:44).

Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we suffer it: being defamed, we entreat (I Cor. 4:12-13).

But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also (Matt. 5:39).

See also: Deuteronomy 21:18-21 and Luke 15:20-23.

In the appointments for worship we still find contrast. Israel could worship in but one place and at a distance from God-only approaching Him through a priest. The church worships wherever two or three are gathered, has boldness to enter into the holiest, and is composed of priests. Compare Leviticus 17:8- 9 with Matthew 18:20, Luke 1:10 with Hebrews 10:19-20, Numbers 3:10 with I Peter 2:5.

In the predictions concerning the future of Israel and the church, the distinction is still more startling. The church will be taken away from the earth entirely, but restored Israel is yet to have her greatest earthly splendor and power. See what Scripture says as to

ISRAEL

"And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: and he shall reign over the house of Jacob forever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end" (Luke 1:31-33). (Of these seven promises to Maryfive have already been literally fulfilled. By what rule of interpretation are we authorized to say the remaining two will not be also fulfilled?)

"Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name. And to this agree the words of the prophets, as it is written: After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down; and I will build again the ruins thereof, and I will set it up" (Acts 15; 14-16).

"I say then, Hath God cast away his people? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin. I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but rather through their fall salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy. For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by nature, and wert graffed contrary to nature into a good olive tree; how much more shall these, which be the natural branches, be graffed into their own olive tree? For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in. And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob" (Rom. 11:1,11, 24-26).

"And it shall come to pass in that day, that the Lord shall set his hand again the second time to recover the remnant of his people.... And he shall set up an ensign for the nations, and shall assemble the outcasts of Israel, and gather together the dispersed of Judah from the four corners of the earth" (Isa. It: It - 12).

"For the Lord will have mercy on Jacob and will yet choose Israel, and set them in their own land: and the strangers shall be joined with them, and they shall cleave to the house of Jacob" (Isa. 14:1).

"Therefore, behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that it shall no more be said, The Lord liveth that brought up the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt; but, The Lord liveth that brought up the children of Israel from the land of the north, and from all the lands whither he had driven them: and I will bring them again into the land that Igave unto their fathers" (Jer. 16:14-15). "Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth. In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely; and this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS" (Jer. 23:5-6).

"Behold, I will gather them out of all countries whither I have driven them in mine anger, and in my fury, and in great wrath; and I will bring them again unto this place, and I will cause them to dwell safely: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God" (Jer. 32:37,38).

"Sing, 0 daughter of Zion; shout, 0 Israel; be glad and rejoice with all the heart, 0 daughter of Jerusalem. The LORD hath taken away thy judgments, he hath cast out thine enemy: the King of Israel, even the LORD, is in the midst of thee: thou shalt not see evil any more" (Zeph. 3:14-15).

THE CHURCH

In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also" (John 14:2, 3).

"For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive, and remain unto the coming of the Lord, shall not prevent [precede] them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord (I Thess. 4:15-17).

"For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself." (Phil. 3:20, 21).

"Beloved, now are we the sons of God; and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is" (I John 3:2).

"Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honor to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints. And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb" (Rev. 19:7-9).

"Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years" (Rev. 20:6).

It may safely be said that the Judaizing of the church has done more to hinder her progress, pervert her mission, and destroy her spiritually than all other causes combined. Instead of pursuing her appointed path of separation from the world and following the Lord in her heavenly calling, she has used Jewish Scriptures to justify herself in lowering her purpose to the civilization of the world, the acquisition of wealth, the use of an imposing ritual, the erection of magnificent churches, the invocation of God's blessing upon the conflicts of armies, and the division of an equal brotherhood into "clergy" and "laity."

 

Posted via email from The Last Generation

LastGeneration: The Book Of Life, Follow Up -Jack Kelley

 

The Book Of Life, Follow Up

Q. In a recent article on the Book of Life you said only the church will be listed in the Lamb’s Book of Life, which is different from the original Book of Life.  Won’t those who come to faith during the trib/great trib also be written in the Lambs Book of Life?

 

A. It looks to me like only the Church is named in the Lamb’s Book of Life.  If I’m correct then post rapture believers are not included there and won’t dwell with us in the New Jerusalem.   Rev. 21:27 says only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life can live there . The tribulation martyrs described in Rev. 7:9-17 will serve God in His Temple day and night, but there’s no Temple in the New Jerusalem (Rev. 21:22) and believing Tribulation survivors will live on Earth where they’ll re-populate the nations.

Posted via email from The Last Generation