Tag: psalm

SUMMER

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In Psalm 32, David speaks of summer in reference to its unpleasant and exhausting “fever heat” as an example of how he’s feeling when bogged down by his own un-dealt-with sin. Without doubt, all of us in Houston, as well as those from many other parts of the world, are fully aware one’s vitality can easily be depleted in the midst of a summer day.  In this case, the Psalmist is experiencing that feeling, yet not because of the outside temperature, but because of internal conflict.  According to verse 4, God’s hand was “heavy” upon him both “day and night.”  The seriousness of this emotional and spiritual internal conflict is revealed when David declares that his body is “wasting away” and that he is “groaning all day long.”    

One of the things one should admire about this psalm, as well as many others, is David’s ability to identify exactly what’s causing the struggle.  It’s not some physical illness, and even though he feels sick, beat down, defeated, etc., he knows the truth.  He understands that he’s not in depression, that he doesn’t need different medication, nor does he need to read another self-help book, listen to feel-good theological mumbo-jumbo, or the psychobabble of some worldly psychiatrist.  No, David simply needs to be honest and at that point he can deal with his issue … sin! 

However, in much of today’s contemporary, culturized church, (particularly those in liberal denominations and/or in the emerging/emergent church movements) sin will not be identified as/for what it is . . . instead those things which are reprehensible to our Lord, Jesus Christ are simply brushed under the carpet, ignored, or actually viewed as tolerable behavior.  Is everything really ok?  In a futile attempt to recognize that God truly loves all humanity and genuinely desires for them to come to the knowledge of the truth, many church’s are indiscriminately and openly, without guilt, shame, or conviction, declaring that everyone is all right/ok. 

How can this be when God alone, through His inerrant scripture defines good and evil, right and wrong, and according to Him, no one is spiritually ok? This is not a matter of one’s own opinion and feelings are certainly not able to determine an individual’s spiritual well-being. Instead, a commendable spiritual condition occurs  through an objective and resolute commitment to the Lord, Jesus Christ, accompanied by adherence to His Word/Truth without reference to a particular social or cultural bias.

In/by/through the “fever heat of summer” David is being graciously disciplined by the Lord (see I Corinthians 11:32; Revelation 3:19) Who desires him to effectively and forthrightly deal with his sin.  This simple, yet substantial action will result in the restoration of David’s spiritual fortitude, as well as his physical, spiritual and emotional healing (see Psalm 32:5-7).

Perhaps one should look at the heat of summer not as a restrictive, confining environment, but a catalyst in one’s life that spawns spiritual growth and stirs the development of godly character.  No doubt, David matured through this process and even learned the benefit of the Lord’s disciplinary, yet merciful hand. How faithful is our Lord, who undeniably caused this “fever heat of summer” in David’s life so he could learn to deal with issues/sin promptly and resolutely. Therefore, when you’re basking or baking in this summer’s sun, remember that the Son provides tremendous opportunities for spiritual development in every situation and season of life.  May we, as His children, fully embrace the indelible imprints of His firm, yet gracious and glorious grip/hand/touch in our lives. 

There is always heat in the kitchen when something good is cookin’!                                                                        – Pastor Frank                                 

MISSION TRIP 2014 PART I

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As you’re reading this article, we have only 20 weeks (or less, depending on delivery date) to prepare for Mission Trip 2014.  While this annual event is a huge undertaking for a ministry our size and arduous to plan and administer, every year we see untold blessings beyond anything that can be measured, valued, or even imagined from a human view-point/perspective.

Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.  

— Ephesians 3:20-21

Similar to last year, we’ve been invited to Lyford/Sebastian, Texas by the superintendent of schools (a faithful believer) with the full endorsement of the community, local school board, and administration/personnel.  Praise be to God for the way He continually opens doors and provides unique opportunities for all those willing to accept the challenge of boldly and sacrificially serving Him without consideration of their own personal comfort, blessing, and/or benefit (in many cases, even the loss of income for our independent contractors and small business owners).             

For the love of Christ controls (urges/compels – presses on us from all sides, holding us to one end and prohibiting us from considering any other, wrapping itself around us in tenderness, giving us an impelling motive) us, having concluded this, that one died for all, therefore all died; and He died for all, so that they who live might no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf.  

— II Corinthians 5:14-15

For not one of us lives for himself, and not one dies for himself;  for if we live, we live for the Lord, or if we die, we die for the Lord; therefore whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s.     

— Romans 14:7-8

Last year, our first time in Lyford/Sebastian, was a great success with attendance far above expectations and many decisions for Christ. In addition, everyone in the area was delighted with our ministry, as well as our friendly, encouraging, exciting, yet non-compromising, distinctively evangelical outreach to the children and youth in the community.  As in former locations (other South Texas communities where we’ve ministered to children and youth), we worked diligently to establish a good reputation with the local businesses, all community leaders, and the parents of the children who participated in our community-wide VBS ministry.

Likewise urge the young men to be sensible; in all things show yourself to be an example of good deeds, with purity in doctrine, dignified, sound in speech which is beyond reproach, so that the opponent will be put to shame, having nothing bad to say about us.  

— Titus 2:6-8

Generally, our goals remain the same (listed below), however, this year we will need even more involvement from those at WOF who cannot come and the active participation of our teenagers’ parents as we prepare them for this year’s mission.  I’m praying that whether one goes or not, it’s still your mission trip … that everyone at WOF has a part in this incredible  undertaking.  Certainly prayer is always at the top of the list, along with significant financial support/scholarships/donations and fundraising efforts/ideas are absolutely essential and greatly appreciated. However,  this year we will be asking for your help, from time-to-time, in many ways.    

Now, brethren, we wish to make known to you the grace of God which has been given in the churches of Macedonia, that in a great ordeal of affliction their abundance of joy and their deep poverty overflowed in the wealth of their liberality.  For I testify that according to their ability, and beyond their ability, they gave of their own accord, begging us with much urging for the favor of participation in the support of the saints, and this, not as we had expected, but they first gave themselves to the Lord and to us by the will of God. 

— II Corinthians 8:1-6

– MISSION TRIP 2014 – OUR PURPOSE –

  1. Introduce children & youth to Jesus Christ!  We strategically plan to provide every child with an opportunity to experience Christ’s love, coming to know forgiveness of sin and salvation that He alone offers.  See I Timothy 2:3-7
  • Provide opportunity for WOF’s youth and young adults, as well as those from other churches, to participate in a meaningful, life-changing ministry event where they are the Lord’s primary ministers/servants.  See I Timothy 4:12
  • Assist other churches/ministries in their efforts to reach a community with Christ’s message of grace and forgiveness.  See Romans 16:1-2
  • Provide a unique opportunity for WOF youth to serve and minister alongside youth from other churches/ministries.  See Psalm 33:1
  • See the purposes of God accomplished as both youth and adult believers work together in unity.  See John 17:22-23

Lyford/Sebastian, Texas is a field white unto harvest. May we lift up our eyes and look … seeing the opportunity afforded us as a church/ministry. 

See John 4:35      

In Luke 10:2-3, Jesus said to His disciples:

The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore beseech the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.

Perhaps He is speaking to us as well!  Certainly we understand this individually in our day-to-day lives, but what about as a church/ministry?  Here are two little towns where few have heard the Truth of Christ’s Gospel (His message of grace, love and forgiveness), and we’ve been invited to a harvest.  How shall we respond?  Shall we heed our Lord’s request?  Certainly, our time is now!                    

— Pastor Frank  

ANNIVERSARY

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An anniversary is the commemoration or celebration of a past event that occurs annually on the same date of the year as the initial, inaugural event.  Needless to say, the simplest example would be one’s wedding anniversary.  As far as we know, this word was first used in relation to religious memorial days that venerated various saints.  These feasts were similar to those associated with Judaism when the Hebrew people gathered to worship the Lord and express their gratitude for all His work in their nation, as well as in their individual lives and families.   

This June, West Oaks Fellowship will observe her 30th anniversary.  In some ways it seems like only yesterday when a handful of young committed believers gathered in hopes of forming a new ministry in association with Westheimer Baptist Church/First Baptist West Houston.  As that aspiration quickly diminished, we came to believe that the Lord was leading us to embrace what seemed to be the next best viable option … start an independent, biblically based ministry/church/fellowship. 

There I was, 30 years old and wading out deep in unfamiliar waters with no bridge back.  Sure, I had led Sonburst (a Jesus band that I was instrumental in forming in 1972), organized and managed my own construction businesses, and served in staff positions for several ministries, but now I was truly out on my own as Christ’s undershepherd … fully responsible and accountable for His flock/people.  Yes, it was somewhat of an intimidating position; one matched only by the loss of my parents and 19 friends in our youth group at age 18 on December 26, 1972, seven months after I had graduated from high school.  Unquestionably, it was truly sink or swim, yet every time I think about those early days of this ministry, then called Grace Church, I am overwhelmed by His abundant grace, and I find myself eternally grateful for three essential elements that God had uniquely orchestrated and put in place for that day and the initial formative years of WOF:

1.    A supporting bride (Brenda) who was succeeding in her own businesses which provided us with not only the funds needed for our well-being, but resources to help underwrite this newly-born New Testament based ministry.

2.     A few godly young men (all around 30) and their wives (some singles too), who loved God, respected one another, and knew His word.  They gave consistently, sacrificially, and responsibly to the ministry of both their time and resources and each of them stepped up to provide the leadership we needed to insure that our initial steps were positioned on a sure, unshakable foundation.

3.    Then, there were all those that came without much expectation (cheap chairs   and creative uses of spaces), but with a strong desire to seek and know the Lord more intimately. Most, wholeheartedly and enthusiastically, even though perhaps nervously, embraced the vision of becoming a church patterned in accordance with the concepts found in the New Testament rather than that of any particular denomination or church entity.

Over the last 30 years, we’ve experienced innumerable blessings, been through some truly difficult seasons, and witnessed a few marked moments when one could certainly declare, “How marvelous, how wonderful is our Savior’s love for us!”  At times our tears, which have been plentiful, have been turned to rejoicing and our sorrows to hope (confident expectation in Him) and celebration.  His faithfulness has guided us through each and every dark time, caused us to overcome seemingly overwhelming odds and difficulties and yet at the same time, learn to be jubilant in the victories.  Through it all, we’ve grown stronger through the trials, becoming steadfast and unrelenting in our pursuit of genuine spiritual transformation. (See Romans 12:1-2, II Corinthians 5:17) Furthermore, scores of lasting, authentic, meaningful, Christ-centered relationships/friendships have emerged within our church body at WOF, providing biblical encouragement, acceptance, and support for one another.  (See I Thessalonians 5:11, Romans 15:7)  The Gospel of Jesus Christ has been affirmed as TRUTH, and God’s Word has been boldly declared with uncompromising passion in well over 3500 public presentations.  (See I Corinthians 1:22-25, II Timothy 4:1-5) 

Have you ever considered that throughout our fellowship’s history, over 15,000 songs of worship and praise, along with many of the enduring hymns of Christ’s church, have been offered in declaration of God’s character/nature and in adoration of the Lord?  (See Ephesians 5:18-21,  Colossians 3:16, Psalm 150)  How many came to know Christ, how many baptized, how many lives positively impacted and changed for His glory?  Only the Lord really knows the fruit of our labor together in this ministry, but most of us would agree, it’s been a good race!

Now let’s consider … What do the next 20 – 30 years look like?  If our Lord graciously tarries, and we haven’t joined Him in His end time conquests, then I sincerely pray that the foundation and heritage that’s been laid by all of us at WOF will continue to provide all the necessary support that’s needed for the next generation to assume and continue the work of Christ until He returns and establishes His Kingdom.

It’s been an incredible blessing and distinguished honor to serve each of you over the last 30 years.                                              

Thanks, Pastor Frank

FORGIVENESS

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Several words, from both the Greek and Hebrew, are used to convey the idea of forgiveness throughout our biblical text.

1) Apoluein (Gk),as used by Christ in Luke 6:37, is translated pardon, and or “forgive.” Thus, the analogy in this verse provides instruction to “forgive” and in turn, one will be “forgiven,” because the actual meaning of this word relates to the full release of a debt and/or the punishment due the perpetrator as a result of sin.

2) In Romans 3:25, Paul uses ‎paresis (Gk), ‎translated remission, in relation to humanity’s sinful nature and deeds — meaning to “forgive” by putting away or aside completely and unreservedly/absolutely!    

‎3) Charizesthai (Gk) (found only in the writings of apostles Luke and Paul) expresses, as no other word or words possibly can express, the concept of God’s pardon and “forgiveness” through grace (unmerited and/or undeserved favor) as articulated in Colossians 2:13!

“And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses.”

4) Kaphar ‎(Heb) is found in Old Testament scriptures and refers exclusively to divine “forgiveness” as in Psalm 78:38!

But He, being compassionate, forgave their iniquity and did not destroy them; And often He restrained His anger and did not arouse all His wrath.

5) In I Kings 8:30, one finds the word calah ‎(Heb) as Solomon stands before the Lord’s altar and humbly cries out for God’s (divine) “forgiveness” . . . “Listen to the supplication of Your servant and of Your people Israel, when they pray toward this place; hear in heaven Your dwelling place; hear and forgive.”

6) Nasa’ (Heb) in the Old Testament scriptures also refers to divine pardon or “forgiveness” as well as that of pardon or “forgiveness” granted by one human to another.  A perfect example of this is found in I Samuel 25 where Abigail appeals to King David on behalf or her husband, Nabal (vs 32-34):

Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, who sent you this day to meet me, and blessed be your discernment, and blessed be you, who have kept me this day from  bloodshed and from avenging myself by my own hand.

“Forgiveness,” generally speaking, is not a virtue of pagan religions, societies, or cultures.  The big-hearted human might flamboyantly disregard offences in cases where he/she considers the wrongdoing or debt to be insignificant and/or beneath one’s notice, but to “forgive” was by and large considered weak-spirited.  Even in the Old Testament Hebrew traditions, “forgiving” another for a wrong, or a debt, is infrequent.  However, there are cases where individuals are found asking for “forgiveness” from a position of subservience. In such cases, a person is petitioning for that which one has no just or granted right(s). (See Genesis 50:17; Exodus 10:17; I Samuel 15:25) However, we as true and faithful believers of Jesus Christ have a much higher calling — in fact, according to Colossians 3:12-13 and Ephesians 4:32, we are instructed to “forgive one another just as God in Christ also forgave you.”

Most have heard the quote by Alexander Pope, “to err is human; to forgive divine.”  In reality, because of our new nature in Christ, we have been given the opportunity to participate in, and partake of, this divine event!  Certainly a true mark and distinguishing characteristic of a Christ-centered, Bible-believing, New Testament church/ministry — where relationships are more important than programs — is the continual (on-going) practice of Christ’s instruction to His disciples in Matthew 18:21-22! 

Then Peter came and said to Him, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him?  Up to seven times?”    (no doubt expecting some accolade)  Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.”

How many times?                          

Let’s do this, Pastor Frank           

NEW

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As we approach a new year in 2016, I’m praying that each of us will fully embrace with great anticipation our position/role in Christ’s plan for our church/ministry, as well as in our lives and family.  Just in case one hasn’t figured it out yet, our Lord is always up to something “new,” and unquestionably He has plenty of “new” lined up for you!

In Mark 2:22 Jesus states:

No one puts new wine into old wineskins; otherwise the wine will burst the skins, and the wine is lost and the skins as well; but one puts new wine into fresh wineskins.

In this text, Christ reminds the Hebrew people that His presence with humanity (see John 1:14) was something “new,” and He wanted the people to clearly understand that this newness (or current fulfillment of God’s promises) unmistakably signaled the passing of the old.  Any attempt to bind the newness of His Gospel to the old religion of Judaism is as futile as trying to patch an old (‎Gk – palaion‎, “worn out by use”) garment with a new, unshrunk piece of cloth. When the new (‎Gk – kainon‎, “qualitatively new”) piece (‎Gk- pleroma‎, “fullness”) becomes wet, it will shrink, pull away from the old, and make a larger hole. 

It is equally disastrous to pour new (Gk – ‎neon‎, “fresh”), not fully fermented, wine into old (‎Gk – palaious‎, “worn out by use,” with no elasticity, brittle) wineskins. Inevitably, as the new wine ferments (expands), it will burst the skins and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined.  Salvation, available through Jesus, was not to be mixed with the old Hebrew/Judaistic system of legalism (religious laws, statutes, and regulations) as explained in John 1:17:

For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ.

Jesus taught:

1.  He came to save sinners by/through grace and truth!

2.  He didn’t come for those that wanted to remain in the status       

    quo … dead religion … instead He offered grace and truth!

3.  He came to introduce the new by/through grace and truth —        

    not to patch up or attempt a revitalization or remodeling of       

    the old!

Jesus came to relentlessly usher in the new, not to unite with the old. The Mosaic system was decaying, getting very old, and ready to vanish away (See Hebrews 8:13).  Therefore, Christ fulfilled and abolished the old so that every believer would have a new life in Him (See II Corinthians 5:17).  The Lord established this New Covenant in/by His blood (See Luke 22:19-20) and this new Law would be written on human hearts, not on stones or tablets (See II Corinthians 3:1-3; Hebrews 10:15-18).  Additionally, the indwelling of God’s Holy Spirit would enable His people to live rightly/righteously (See Romans 8:1-4).

By using this illustration, the Lord refuted once and for all, the popular idea of a compromising “world religion.”  Well-meaning but spiritually blind leaders often suggest that we take “the best” from each religion, blend it with what is “best” in the Christian faith, and thus manufacture a synthetic faith that would be acceptable to everybody.

But the Christian faith is exclusive in character; it will not accept any other faith as its equal or its superior. Remember, according to Acts 4:12:

There is none other name under heaven, given among men, whereby we must be saved!

Salvation is not a partial patching up of one’s old life … instead, we put on something new. (See Isaiah 61:10) II Corinthians 5:21 declares:  

He (Father God) made Him (Jesus Christ) who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

Therefore, the Christian life that each of us will embark upon in 2016 is not a mixing of one’s old life with the new; rather, the old being crucified and transformed (Gk – metamorfousthe – from Romans 12:1-2 meaning  completely changed) into the new.  An acorn is planted in the ground and it is ultimately destroyed, but out of that seed pops an oak tree!  Small ones, young ones, big ones, and not so young ones — all reaching for new heights because of the our relationship with Christ!

Are you ready?   May 2016 be a year when each of us is …    

Like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in its season and its leaf does not wither; and in whatever he/she does, he/she prospers.

Psalm 1:3

That’s my prayer for all of us this year. 

His & Yours, Pastor Frank

ABUNDANT

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The word “abundant” is used throughout our Old Testament scriptures to describe Yahweh’s unlimited love and His covenant faithfulness. The authors readily confess that their God is abounding in (Hebrew ‎ra»-µese¼‎‎), or has an abundance of (Hebrew rœ» µese¼‎) steadfast love!

Psalm 86:5

For You, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive, and abundant in lovingkindness to all who call upon You.

    Isaiah 63:7

I shall make mention of the lovingkindnesses of the Lord, the praises of the Lord, according to all that the Lord has granted us, and the great goodness toward the house of Israel, which He has granted them according to His compassion and according to the abundance of His lovingkindnesses.

In Isaiah 55:7, the Lord’s prophet calls upon the people of Israel to repent of their wickedness and return to Yahweh, “for He will abundantly pardon” (Hebrew ‎yarbeh lislô(a)µ‎, literally meaning to “multiply pardon”).

In the New Testament, (Greek gk perisseúœ‎, hyperperisseúœ‎) abound, abundance, abundant, and abundantly are usually translated — “to be or make extremely rich” — “to overflow” — “cause to overflow” or “to be present in greater abundance” as proclaimed concerning God’s grace in Romans 5:20-21:

The Law came in so that the transgression would increase; but where sin increased, grace abounded all the more, so that, as sin reigned in death, even so grace would reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

The familiar passage of scripture in John 10:10 speaks of an “abundant” life afford those who truly believe in Jesus Christ:

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.

The Biblical text repeatedly warns against putting one’s trust in the abundance of material things. In Psalm 37 we are advised against envy when seeing the wicked prosper … knowing that they, along with their wealth, will be destroyed, and that the Lord is faithful to preserve those who put their faith/full trust in Him. (see Psalm 37)  Therefore, the little that the righteous may have is ultimately better than the abundance of the wicked (see Psalm 37:16).  Consider:

Proverbs 15:16

Better is a little with the fear of the Lord, Than great treasure and turmoil with it.

Proverbs 16:8

Better is a little with righteousness, Than great income with injustice.

Unquestionably, Yahweh promised — and gave — to Israel an abundance of material blessings (see Deuteronomy 28:11); but He also warned that if this prosperity did not lead to the faithful service it could/would be taken away (see Deuteronomy 28:47). In fact, this is exactly what happened to Israel, as prophesied by Ezekiel (see 7:11) and recounted by Ezra (see Nehemiah 9:25).

Nonetheless, Israel was promised that when she repented of her disobedience, her fortunes would be restored and she would experience prosperity greater than she had known before (see Deuteronomy 30:9; Isaiah 66:10; Jeremiah 31:12-14; 33:6-9; Ezekiel 36:29). Therefore, it appears that God’s desire throughout history (HIS STORY) has always been to abundantly bless His people.  

In the NT, abundance takes on many forms much greater than that of material possessions. Knowing abundance is an absolute characteristic of one’s new life obtained through genuine salvation — faith in Christ Jesus!  This abundance is unlike anything previously known, and is stimulated by spiritual growth. The Lord’s abundance is appropriated (poured out, received and acted upon) in every Christian’s life to bring about complete transformation.

This fullness is not manifested in the realm of material blessings, but in the abundance of grace that is, according to the scriptures, lavished upon His Church (see Ephesians 1:3-14). Thus the believing, Christian community is empowered to do far more than it could dare to imagine (see Ephesians 3:20)!  

While the NT does not denounce material abundance, it stresses its imperfect value and its dangers. Jesus warned that “a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions” (see Luke 12:15).  Remember, Paul testified that he had learned to face both material abundance and deprivation with equanimity (see Philippians 4:12).  One value of material abundance lies in the opportunity it provides for generosity (see II Corinthians 8:14); and to those who give generously, there is the promise that:

God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that you may always have enough of everything and may provide in abundance for every good work.

In this regard, my consistent prayer for all of us at WOF is that each one will prosper and be in good health, even as one’s soul prospers.  — From III John 2                          

II Corinthians 9:8

His & Yours, PF

DIGNITY

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Now there’s a word you don’t hear much anymore!  In fact, I’m not sure I’ve ever heard a sermon or teaching on the topic other than a brief pass-by when someone is teaching on the “virtuous woman” of Proverbs 31 or a short mention when discussing the biblical qualifications for the New Testament offices of Overseer (Elders) and/or Deacons in I Timothy 3. 

Actually, there are at least 9 Hebrew words and 10 Greek words in our bibles that mean and/or could be translated into English as “dignity”.  In Proverbs 31:25, which is perhaps most familiar passage where this word occurs, that after talking about this incredible lady literally making clothing for her family and others, the writer of Proverbs also makes a spiritual application about her spiritual attire.  One can certainly have garments and fine fashions that makes you look dignified, but that has little to nothing to do with the divine attribute of dignity! In Galatians 3:27, Paul uses a similar illustration by comparing what one wears as an outer garment in a practical sense to spiritual adornment when declaring, “For all of you who were baptized (as believers) into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ” when becoming God’s children through new-birth by faith in Jesus Christ.  Romans 13:14 also reminds us of our everyday need for spiritual attire as we are instructed to, “put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh in regard to its lusts.”

Throughout the scriptures, the word “dignity” is used in reference to an inner quality of amiable behavior as well as that of being very or extremely honorable, having a good name (reputation), virtuous (upright and honest), noble and excellent. In Proverbs 31:25 this woman’s beauty shines forth from her inner most being as she has wrapped herself in the very attributes and characteristics of the Lord, therefore she is no shameful, unskilled, unimportant weakling in the family, society, or in reference to God’s perfect design for humanity! 

 As a result of her spiritual garments, she is clothed with strength, which means power over the changes of temporal circumstances … which too often and easily shatter families, bringing whole households to ruin when built and resting upon shaky and less solid foundations.  She rises above the common, the deceptive traps of one’s culture, society, peer pressure, and the like. Her raiment is spot-on . . . “dignity” which empowers her to peer confidently into the future and all that it holds for her family, business, and ministry, as well as her faith-based relationship with the Lord. She moves from strength to strength (Psalm 84:6-7) with the blessings of Almighty God, maintaining her faith and “dignity” through the plethora of situations and circumstances she encounters on a daily basis!  She is invested with a moral force and “dignity” which arm her against the typical distracting cares and worries of this life with the divine (supernatural) power of a righteous purpose that reveals itself in her deportment and demeanor.

No wonder she’s been given the renowned and glorious title, “Virtuous Woman.”  She enjoys a firmness and constancy of mind, has spirit to bear up under the many crosses and disappointments which even the wise and virtuous must expect to meet within this world; and this is her clothing, for defense as well as decency. She deals honorably with all, and takes great delight, fulfillment, and pleasure in so doing. 

Unquestionably, this one of “dignity” reflects upon life with comfort, and even as she grows old, knows her life was not filled with idleness and/or uselessness.  She is not disquieted by fears of what might/may be or happen, knowing full well in whom she trusts (Psalm 112:1-10), and having done her duty responsibly and to the utmost of her ability.  Even in the day of her death it will be a pleasure for her to reflect, absolutely and assuredly knowing that she lived for a purpose higher than herself — her Lord’s glory good purposes!  Yes, she will rejoice in the things of an eternity to come … being recompensed for her life, her adornment, her service, and the authenticated and indisputable “dignity” she so willingly, honestly, and openly displayed.

In our common English language, “dignity” is defined as:

1.  the state or quality of being worthy of honor or respect.

     “a person of dignity is one of unbending principle”

2.  a composed or serious manner or style.

     “he/she bowed with great dignity”

3. a sense of self-respect.

4.  a high or honorable rank or position.

Perhaps today we ask ourselves, “Are we individuals of dignity?”  If not, why not?   Think about it. His & Yours by GRACE (God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense)  –PF   

ANGER/ANGRY

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Do we live in an “angry” world?  Seems everywhere one turns someone is “angry” about something!  What does one really need to understand in order to control the emotional, stressful, hateful, sometimes extremely violent, enraged, or even vengeful, outbursts or other displays of anger, which include deep-rooted bitterness and even clamming up (silent treatment)?  How does an individual find genuine healing from the conflicts within one’s own heart/spirit, as well as others’ hurt feelings, the experiences of social isolation, and a trail of damaged relationships spoiled by uncontrolled and improperly managed “anger” which is horrifically destructive?   

Proverbs 29:11 declares:

A fool always loses his temper, But a wise man holds it back.

 In Colossians 3:8 faithful believers are reminded of  their strength through new life in Christ Jesus:

 But now you also, put them all aside: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive speech from your mouth.

James 1:19-21 also speaks plainly and distinctly:

But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger; for the anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God.

Yes, we all know, and are possibly too familiar with, the words of human justification, reasoning/reckoning, and rationalization — “I just can’t/couldn’t help it!” or the blame-shifting response of _______________ (the devil, whomever, whatever) made me do it!” 

I’m often amazed how Christians stumble right into this lie and fail to understand that “anger” and what we do with our “anger” is a choice (that’s even true in a case of being “angry without sin” as referenced in Ephesians 4:26). People routinely get angry at others, situations, things, circumstances, themselves, and even God, but in each event, one ultimately decides if “anger” is the reasonable choice/option.

We even choose how much anger to display, and selectively pick the style exhibited to various people, generally based upon feelings and the condition of existing, or non-existing relationships with that individual, thing, circumstance, or situation. In addition, many will choose “anger” to manipulate, control or dominate a certain individual/situation. Being or becoming “angry” may also be used as a form of communication or emotional expression to those we hold dear (loved ones, close friends, spouses, children, etc.). If that is the case, one must ask, “what is actually being communicated?” because “anger” is a devastating, destructive and divisive force that must be checked in the lives of every true follower of Jesus Christ.   

Consider Proverbs 14:29:

He who is slow to anger has great understanding, But he who is quick-tempered exalts folly.

Do parents refuse to hug, love, or even properly discipline their children because they are angry?  Do husbands and wives deny one another care, concern, and intimacy because of their anger? Do employees waste time, or employers refuse proper compensation due to anger?  Are friendships damaged, ruined, and even severed on a routine basis because of anger?  It just goes on and on, invading lives and our society! Did KKK members formerly hang American black men because they were angry?  Are police officers of all nationalities being assassinated today because of anger?  Billy Graham once said, “Hot heads and cold hearts never solved anything.”

TRUTH: Either we control our “anger” or “anger” will control us, because one’s “anger” is always that of one’s own choosing!  In reality, that’s the first step to healing … recognizing that any time you’re angry, you determine that this is the path you prefer, and any emotional displays of that “anger” is also your own choice. 

Second, when dealing with “anger” one must run headlong to the Lord!  He has promised to be our strength and help in any/every time of trouble (See Psalm 46:1) … any unbridled, sinful anger, is trouble for you and everyone around you!

Psalm 37:8

Cease from anger and forsake wrath; Do not fret; it leads only to evildoing.

Third, in the life of a true Christian, unchecked “anger” generally represents a lack of godly character, and a loss of control over one’s  own thoughts and behavior/actions. This fails to represent righteousness, but instead, the sinful nature of a carnal/fleshly mind that should be surrendered to God’s alteration! (See Romans 8:5-8). 

By learning to properly handle anger, we will empower healing of damaged relationships and make our daily lives more peaceful, rewarding, and meaningful … all to HIS glory!

                  Together, let’s rid Christ’s Church of this menace … anger!  — PF

JUSTICE

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

What is justice? Where is justice found?  The original Hebrew words (tsedhaqah‎; ‎tsedheq‎) and the Greek word (dikaiosune‎), are essentially the same as those rendered or translated “righteousness.”  This is common in about half of the uses in the King James Version of the biblical text as well as in the American Standard Revised Version.  Other versions use the words interchangeably based upon the context of the verse. Nonetheless, it must be constantly borne in mind that the two ideas are essentially the same throughout the entire Bible.

1. Human Justice primarily has to do with conduct in relationship to others, especially with regard for the rights of individuals.  This justice, in general, is contrasted with humanity’s evil or wickedness which “feared not God, and regarded not (one’s fellow) man” (See Luke 18:2). In a larger sense, justice involves not only giving others their rights, but the active duty of establishing their rights.   

Isaiah 1:17 Learn to do good; Seek justice, reprove the ruthless, defend the orphan, plead for the widow.

Psalm 82:2-4 How long will you judge unjustly and show partiality to the wicked?  Selah. Vindicate the weak and fatherless; Do justice to the afflicted and destitute. Rescue the weak and needy; Deliver them out of the hand of the wicked.

In our New Testament, the idea of justice or righteousness (remember … these are essentially the same) becomes more spiritual and ethical. It is truly a matter of character, and God’s own spirit is the standard!   

I John 3:7-8 Little children, make sure no one deceives you; the one who practices righteousness is righteous, just as He is righteous; the one who practices sin is of the devil; for the devil has sinned from the beginning.

The mere give-and-take idea of justice is not enough. Believers are unquestionably and uniquely called to be  merciful … merciful to all fellow humans!  The ideal is our righteousness in God through Christ Jesus, not rights!  In Matthew 5:20, Jesus declared:

Unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.

2. God’s justice, or righteousness, is found to be an essential aspect of His divine nature.  However, just as with humanity, it is not something abstract, but is clearly revealed in His relationship to mankind and the world He created. It is His Lordship/Kingship that established and maintains justice. Even though it appears as retributive justice, it’s the reaction of His Holy will/nature, and is  grounded in His very being.  He is against evil … whatever,  wherever found.

Habakkuk 1:13 Your eyes are too pure to approve evil, And You can not look on wickedness with favor.

Therefore, He is not, and cannot be … indifferent to good and evil, right and wrong, etc.  All the great prophets of the Old Testament, Isaiah, Micah, Amos, Hosea, each understood God’s just/righteous nature, and insist upon Yahweh’s call/demand for justice/righteousness in/with God’s people.

Today, our cultures and societies know little of genuine justice and in fact may even come to deny it’s existence or origin, despite the consequences within the framework of human civilization.  Nevertheless, God’s people are to seek justice, justice for all — as a fundamental component of our belief system/faith … apart from which there is no, and will never be any, true or valid, justice/righteousness.    

At West Oaks Fellowship, I pray we “seek justice” and embrace the true meaning of justice for all, standing firm in the understanding that God is just, and the justifier of all those who place their full faith in Jesus Christ!  (See Romans 3:26).

                                                                           His & Yours, PF

CONSIDERATIONS FOR GIVING THANKS

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

As most believers already know, the first thanksgiving celebration was held in December of 1621.  The first winter had killed 44 of the original 102 colonists and at one point their daily food ration was down to five kernels of corn for each person.  However, history records that an unexpected trading vessel arrived, and the early American settlers were able to swap beaver pelts for corn which provided for their severe need.  The next summer’s abundant crop brought great hope, and Governor William Bradford decreed that December 13, 1621, be set aside as a day of feasting and prayer for the colonists to express their gratitude to the Lord, which continued for three consecutive days.


These settlers openly and willfully gave thanks to God for His provision of:

1. 20 acres of cleared land.

2. Peaceful, non-hostile Indians in the region

3. The freedom they enjoyed allowing them to live openly and worship as Bible believing Christians.

4. Squanto, (A member of the Patuxet tribe, Wampanoag Confederacy. who had previously crossed the Atlantic Ocean six times, traveling with colonists to London and back) who could interpret for the 80+ friendly local Indians (who contributed to the first thanksgiving feast by bringing wild turkeys and venison).

From that time forward, Thanksgiving has been celebrated as a day to give thanks to God for His gracious and sufficient provision. US President, Abraham Lincoln, officially set aside the last Thursday of November, in 1863, “as a day of thanksgiving and praise to our beneficent Father.”  Then In 1941, Congress declared that the fourth Thursday of November should be set aside as “Thanksgiving Day”  and observed as a legal holiday.

As believers, the biblical admonitions related to the ideas of giving thanks far proceed that of our American culture and celebrated holiday.  Almost cover to cover throughout the scriptural text, one finds continued references to the idea of thanksgiving or the giving of thanks. The Israelites sang a song of thanksgiving when they were delivered from Pharaoh’s army after their crossing of the Red Sea (See Exodus 15:1-18) declaring …

The Lord is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation; this is my God, and I will praise Him; my father’s God, and I will extol Him. The Lord  is a warrior; the Lord  is His name.

Later, the Mosaic Law set aside three times each year when the Israelites were to assemble and give thanks to the Lord for His provision and grace:

1. Unleavened Bread (also called the Feast of the Passover) — Exodus 12:15-20

2. Harvest or Pentecost —  Leviticus 23:15-21

3. Feast of Tabernacles or Ingathering —  Leviticus 23:33-36

The celebrations of both Harvest and Tabernacles took place specifically in relation to God’s provision as related to certain fruit trees and crops. In addition, the book of Psalms is packed full of songs declaring thanksgiving to the Lord God for His grace to the Israelites, as a people/nation, as well as for His outpouring of blessings upon individuals. (See Psalm 36:1, 106:1; 107:1; 118:1)

As Christ’s faithful followers, we must consider these following New Testament scriptures as well, where we are consistently prompted and coached to offer God  thanksgiving:

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. — I Thessalonians 5:16-18

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. — Philippians 4:6

Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men.– I Timothy 2:1

For God’s greatest gift, that of His Son, which meets our greatest need, the Apostle Paul says, “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift! — II Corinthians 9:15

Nonetheless, just like the early colonists, we have many choices in life.  There will always be those things that we can find adequate reason, or at least some personal justification to complain about (those early settlers had lost many loved ones).  However, there will also always be much to be grateful/thankful for!  As our society becomes increasingly secular, the actual “giving of thanks to God” during our annual Thanksgiving holiday is being severely neglected and generally overlooked, leaving behind only feasting with family and friends.

 I’m praying for all of us at WOF, that He might grant us much better understanding and a heart filled with genuine gratitude – not just as we approach the holiday season, but that we be found grateful/thankful every day for all of His precious gifts, both spiritual, relational, and material!  According to His Word, He is good and “every good gift comes from Him” (See James 1:17). In addition, for those that know Christ and are called according to His purpose(s), we know that He causes all things … “Everything to work together for good,” even events we would not necessarily consider good (See Romans 8:28-30).

In light of these truths, Lord please help us to become, and find us to be, grateful children who continually, openly, and unashamedly offer an abundance of thanksgiving to You … from Whom all blessings flow!

His & Yours, PF