Tag: psalm

RESOLUTIONS

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

As 2019 approaches, many individuals will make “New Year’s Resolutions.”  This practice originated with the Babylonians and was connected to the planting of crops in mid-March.  Promises were made to their pagan deities and in return, as the Babylonians stayed true to  their promises, the gods would bestow favor on them throughout the coming year. 

Similar practices occurred in ancient Rome, where Julius Caesar modified the calendar, establishing January 1 as the beginning of a new year. They believed their two-faced god, Janus, whose spirit inhabited doorways and arches, was able to look backwards into the previous year and forward into the future.  In hopes of a good future, the Romans offered sacrifices coupled with promises of good behavior in hopes of having a blessing in the coming year.

Early on, the first day of a new year became an occasion for Christians to think about one’s past mistakes and resolve to do and be better in the future. In 1740, John Wesley, founder of Methodism, created the Covenant Renewal Service which was commonly held on New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day, affording worshippers the opportunity to seek the Lord’s help and favor in the coming new year. This type of service became known as watch night services throughout Protestantism in western culture.

Resolutions are a funny thing because they are usually a set of somewhat lofty goals, perhaps far-fetched ideas, things on a bucket list, or possibly a “better version of the you” that one’s hoping and praying to be in coming New Year.

Did you know that, on average, approximately 92 percent of Americans are doomed to fail at keeping their New Year’s Resolutions? One might ask, why? It’s mostly because the goals aren’t specific, measurable and/or realistic (too far-fetched to be obtainable).

As a result, some people simply don’t attempt to make New Year’s Resolutions, which is a personal choice, while others struggle to make the next year different.  While I’m in a different camp, that from a perspective of continuous modification and transformation, even on a daily basis, I’d like to share some steps I use to affect substantive modifications in my life.  

Now before you jump in, realize two things:

  1.  Effective change requires a serious, steadfast commitment!
  2. Generally, affirmative or positive change requires a step by step approach, both spiritual and practical!   

STEP 1: Where does your help come from?  Perhaps, “I can’t, but with God, nothing is impossible!” (see Zachariah 4:6, Galatians 2:20, Philippians 4:13, II Corinthians 3:4-5, Luke 1:37)

STEP 2:  Be humble and surrender your desire/will to the Lord’s purpose for your life! (see James 4:3, I Corinthians 10:31, Psalm 37:11, I Peter 5:6, I Chronicles 4:9-10)

STEP 3: Own your past, openly acknowledge sin — without excuses or attempts at human justifications! (See Psalm 32, Proverbs 28:13, I Corinthians 11:3, James 5:16)   

STEP 4: Walk in forgiveness (seeking forgiveness and forgiving others)!  (See Ephesians 4:32)   

STEP 5: Lay all your plans out before the Lord!  (See Proverbs 16:1-9, 19:20-24, 20:18, 21:5, 29:18, Jeremiah 29:11-13, Isaiah 55:8-9)  

STEP 6:  Stay connected and listen closely!  (See James 1:19, Jeremiah 33:3, I John 5:14, Proverbs 16:20, Matthew 7:24-27, Psalm 5:3)

STEP 7:  Don’t shrink back, remain steadfast! (See II Timothy 1:7, Psalm 27:14, 31:24, Joshua 1:1-9, Deuteronomy 31:6)

Faithful followers of Jesus Christ live daily in anticipation of hearing and responding to the Lord’s direction.  If He has placed in your heart a need and desire to change, and you’re committed to that end, then launch the resolution.  At that point, share your objective(s) with others, become accountable, and seek wise counsel (See Proverbs 11:4) from the godly, not the worldly (See Psalm 1:1, Romans 8:8)! Satan will use the seemingly good ideas of the world to trap you in the grips of his destructive system.  He may help you change, but it won’t be anything that honors or glorifies the Lord (See Hebrews 11:6)!   

I pray you enjoy a blessed new year of godly transformation!          — PF  

FAITHFULNESS

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

Isn’t this the genuine life-mission of every true follower/disciple of Jesus Christ?  The word “faithfulness” appears in both the Old and New Testament biblical texts, primarily addressing two main themes:

  1. The faithfulness of God
  2. The faithfulness of God’s people  

THE FAITHFULNESS OF GOD can simply (perhaps overly simplified) be defined as His determined loyalty to keep His word and fulfill all His covenants. Psalm 25:10 clearly and unmistakably links our God’s faithfulness to the concepts of love and truth … “All the paths of the Lord are lovingkindness and truth to those who keep His covenant and His testimonies” … for all those in relationship with Him.   However, His faithfulness, fully displayed in love and truth, extends far beyond those who believe — to every aspect of His creations!    Psalm 57:10 – “For Your lovingkindness is great to the heavens and Your truth to the clouds.”

Our New Testament scriptures also affirm God’s continued faithfulness which is ultimately, powerfully, permanently, and finally, confirmed in Jesus Christ our Lord.  I Corinthians 1:9 declares, “God is faithful, through whom you were called into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” Here, one sees God’s continued determined loyalty to  lovingkindness and truth through the continuation of His gracious unalterable covenants. God fully demonstrates His care for all humanity in II Corinthians 1:18-22 –

But as God is faithful, our word to you is not yes and no.  For the Son of God, Christ Jesus, who was preached among you by us — by me and Silvanus and Timothy — was not yes and no, but is yes in Him.  For as many as are the promises of God, in Him they are yes; therefore also through Him is our Amen to the glory of God through us.  Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and anointed us is God, who also sealed us and gave us the Spirit in our hearts as a pledge.

This pledge, of His Holy Spirit, further proves His faithfulness!

THE FAITHFULNESS OF GOD’S PEOPLE is also prevalent in both the Old and New Testament scriptures!  In Numbers 14:24-25 a noticeable and distinct example of faithfulness results in God’s blessings upon all of Caleb’s descendants! 

But My servant Caleb, because he has had a different spirit and has followed Me fully, I will bring into the land which he entered, and his descendants shall take possession of it.

There are numerous examples of “faithfulness” like this in the biblical text that provide illustrations and patterns of this valuable attribute for our lives as authentic believers. Nonetheless, does our God’s faithfulness somehow demand a response of faithfulness from His people … those redeemed and called by His name?  That’s a question one must answer.

See, God’s prophet, Samuel spoke openly with the Lord’s people in I Samuel 12:24 –

Only fear the Lord and serve Him in truth with all your heart; for consider what great things He has done for you.

The New Testament refers to human faithfulness as a God-granted virtue/asset/quality. In Galatians 5:22 it is listed as fruit in one’s life — resulting from the indwelling of God’s Holy Spirit!  I Timothy 3:11 exhorts godly women be “faithful in all things.”  Matthew and Luke both reference the concepts of the faithful servants and faithful stewards (Matthew 24:45; 25:21,23; Luke 12:42; 16:10-12; 19:17). “Faithful” here is very much role-relative; but the point of the parables is not that the Christian should allow role expectations to determine totally his or her behavior, but that one should be faithful to God and give that loyalty precedence over all others.

In I Timothy 1:12, the apostle Paul gives the reason for his appointment as “faithfulness,” according to Christ’s judgment. He also instructed Pastor Timothy to find “faithful men” and to appoint them to the role of teachers in Christ’s Church (II Timothy 2:2). However, in every one of these examples, faithfulness in a particular role meshes inseparably with faithfulness to the Lord, as is seen by the frequent addition of epistemological phrases such as “in Jesus Christ.”

Now, brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus, please meditate on this one for a few days & nights …

It is a trustworthy statement: If we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself.

II Timothy 2:11, 13

That’s our Lord!                                                         

His & Yours, PF

AUTHORITY

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The Greek word “exousia” is often translated in the English New Testament as “authority” — as in the sense of having the ability and/or power/force coupled with the right, freedom, or privilege.

Through a little diligent study of the New Testament, one will discover 5 ranges or scopes (areas) of “authority” clearly distinguished within the biblical text.

  1. GOD – is the ultimate source of all power and authority with the absolute freedom of action without being controlled by necessity nor restraint.  This is plainly illustrated in Romans 9:21 – “Or does not the potter have a right over the clay, to make from the same lump one vessel for honorable use and another for common use?”
  2. RULERS & LEADERS – are granted subordinate power/authority in society (kings, magistrates, owners, stewards, etc.), as well as in the Church (pastors, elders, leaders, etc.), with Christ being seated above all “rule and authority and power and dominion” in Ephesians 1:20-21.  While it may seem odd, this is also true of Satan and his agents in connection with their sphere of power/authority.  When humanity rebelled against God and sinned against Him, He withdrew His presence, but not His ownership!  Remember, “The earth is the Lord’s, and all it contains, the world, and those who dwell in it.” — Psalm 24:1 In addition, the devil could not assault Job without permission!
  3. CHRIST – the authority and power exercised by the Lord within the framework of His commission is incomparable, unmatched by any individual! He has the authority, power, and the right to forgive sins (Mark 2:10), cast out demons (Mark 3:15), teach as no other (Matthew 7:29), raise the dead (Luke 7:12-15), heal the blind (Luke 18:35-43), calm the sea (Mark 4:38-41), even exercise judgment (John 5:27), and demonstrate irrefutable discernment (John 4:17-18) … all of which is granted by the Father to reveal Christ’s divinity and enhance His Gospel.
  4.  THE APOSTLES – were sent forth by Christ Himself with great authority!  In one case they were celebrating because the demons were subject to them. (Luke 10:17-19) However, the Lord quickly reminded them in verse 20 … “Nevertheless, do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are recorded in heaven.”

This is not, of course, an absolute or inherent authority. It is an authority granted by the commissioning of Christ. Hence, the elements of responsibility are prominent with the charge, and it is essential that the apostles make proper use of this (HIS) authority/power. In addition, these leaders are provided financial support by the believers, while they teach and guide — with authority — the development and ministries of Christ’s Church.

5. CHRIST’S CHURCH – which is made up of individual believers, is a divine institution created by Christ for the benefit of its membership, the continuation of Christ’s earthly ministry in His physical absence, and the fulfillment of His great commission of making disciples.  Therefore, each individual, as well as each New Testament Church body, has authority granted to it by its head/leader, Jesus Christ, according to Matthew 28:18-20:

And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.

What shall we, as believers, make of / say to these things?

                           NOW — think about that!  –Pastor Frank    

FAITH & FREEDOM

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Over the past 34 years of our newsletters, I’ve written numerous articles on various aspects of “faith” and volumes on the subject of “freedom.”  They are undoubtedly 2 of my favorite topics because both are absolutely essential elements of abundant and successful Christian living this side of Heaven or Christ’s Kingdom!  Today, I will connect some of the dots between faith and political, as well as spiritual, freedom.  

The USA is unquestionably the freest, strongest, and most prosperous nation in all of history. This miraculous development is in large part thanks to one American leader’s significant contribution of bravery in battle, perseverance through hardships, patience with those who opposed him, and wisdom while in power. This astonishing, gallant, Virginian rode a majestic white horse and actually lived by the ideals of which he spoke. There were not many dry eyes in America on September 17, 1796 when George Washington announced his final farewell from public life. At that moment, he stated that the survival of freedom in our nation would have nothing to do with him, and everything to do with the character of its people and the government that they would elect.  He said,

Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, … religion and morality are indispensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of patriotism who should labor to subvert these great pillars of human happiness, these firmest props of the duties of men and citizens. The mere politician, equally with pious man, ought to respect and cherish them. A volume could not trace all the connections with private and public felicity. Let it simply be asked where is the security for property, for reputation, for life, if the sense of religious obligation desert the oaths, which are the instruments of investigation in Courts of Justice?  And let us with caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion. Whatever may be conceded to the influence of refined education on minds of peculiar structure, reason and experience both forbid us to expect that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle.

Washington knew well that a nation’s laws spring from its morals and that its morals spring from its “religion.” The religion of which Washington spoke was clear to all who knew him: “It is impossible to govern rightly without God and the Bible.”  Unquestionably, “religion,” as used by President Washington, was faith in God/Jesus Christ and His Word, the Bible!

In his essay, “What I Saw In America,” the Englishman G. K. Chesterton observed that

America is the only nation in the world that is founded on a creed. That creed is set forth with dogmatic and even theological lucidity in the Declaration of Independence.

Chesterton was referring to the second paragraph of America’s founding document which states:

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

The very starting point of the Declaration’s argument was faith in the “Creator!” Have you ever considered the similarity of this statement to the Apostle Paul’s initial proposition in Romans 1:19-20? …

because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.

YIKES-seems like our founders believed, by faith, in the CREATOR referenced in Romans 1!

While I’m constantly amazed at the bondage many believers choose to live in (Galatians 3:1-5), as well as gaps of faith that destroy one’s joy and peace in everyday life, one must come to recognize that spiritual freedom is the free gift from God (Romans 5:15), and that it only comes to individuals who believe the truth of Jesus Christ (John 8:32).

Then, upon that faith, one is able to live daily by faith (in God/Christ and His Word – Galatians 2:20), free from the bondage of this world’s system’s  sin and death (Romans 8:2-4). That faith is the very root of one’s own spiritual freedom in Christ, and the only valid, sustaining basis of political freedom/liberty in society.

Remember, without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6). Is that true for a nation and its leaders as well?  What is a nation without faith in the one true God?  Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord! (Psalm 33:12)

Are we, as the people of America, able to declare, “In God we trust,” or is that so politically incorrect that it’s being swept under the carpet in absolute denial and complete rejection of the Creator that was openly acknowledged at the birth of our great nation?  Only a fool declares, there is no God (Psalm 14:1) … and whose country is it anyway … our government’s, the politicians’, the people’s or the Lord’s (Job 12:23-25)?     

I know, lots to think and pray about …                      His & Yours, PF

STRENGTH

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For who is God, but the Lord? And who is a rock, except our God, the God who girds me with strength and makes my way blameless?  He makes my feet like hinds’ feet, and sets me upon my high places. He trains my hands for battle, so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze. You have also given me the shield of Your salvation, and Your right hand upholds me; and Your gentleness makes me great.

Psalm 18:31-35

The Hebrew word “chaayi” — translated here as “strength” — is used approximately 244 times in the Old Testament, with about 20 of those references in the Psalms related to God’s might/omnipotence.  In this passage, “strength” is used in an absolute state which indicates possession; thus God is viewed as girding (binding up) the psalmist with His strength.

It’s important to note that in a practical sense, or modern-day application, the phrase “girds me with strength” means to make strong — assuring the readers that, in context, it is the one true God that is working to make the writer strong.

Our psalmist is now a warrior, being trained for war with a might far above all other created sources or strengths!  Without this wondrous girding/belt, he would have been feeble, with uncertain energies and a misguided or misdirected human force/ability.  Now, however, he himself is daring in purpose, courageous, and in possession of, or perhaps possessed by, a concentrated, holy power.

Have we too, as believers, and Christ’s disciples, been made more than human conquerors? Are we fully equipped and empowered from on-high with strength and might greater than anything known to humanity? 

If yes, then let us ascribe all the glory and honor to Him Who has girded us with His own inexhaustible strength — that we might be unwearied during our pilgrimage of faith, and victorious throughout our battles with the world, the flesh and the devil (our enemy, Satan).

As we turn to our New Testament, we find the Apostle Paul, early in his ministry (Acts 9:22), “increasing in strength and confounding the Jews who lived at Damascus by proving that this Jesus is the Christ.” The Greek word used here, “endunamoo,” translated “increasing in strength,” is a compound word from the Greek root word “dunamis,” meaning power.  Should we even question or ever wonder what’s actually at work in him?

It was also this same apostle, who, in Philippians 4:13, boldly declares, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”  Do you suppose he had been girded with strength from the Lord above?

I Peter 4:11 brings this concept home for us… for each of our own individual, day-to-day lives –

Whoever speaks, is to do so as one who is speaking the utterances of God; whoever serves is to do so as one who is serving by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Now, as many of you have already anticipated, this lands us right in Ephesians 6:10-17:

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand firm therefore, HAVING GIRDED YOUR LOINS WITH TRUTH, and HAVING PUT ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, and having shod YOUR FEET WITH THE PREPARATION OF THE GOSPEL OF PEACE; in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.  And take THE HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

Whose armor is this?  Is He not girding us with His strength?  –PF               

WAITING

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Generally, waiting is not something of great pleasure when one lives in a culture and society that often seems to crave the instant.  Who doesn’t break with their basket to the shortest line at the grocery store or quickly position one’s vehicle to secure the nearest open fuel pump?  Nonetheless, waiting is a part of everyone’s daily life, whether one likes/enjoys/embraces it or not.  In a similar way, believers may experience the perceived difficulty, or even the frustration, of having to patiently wait, while the Lord is up to something for His glory and purpose that far outweighs the delayed fulfillment, gratification, or satisfaction of the immediate. 

In Psalm 25:3 we are reminded, “Indeed, none of those who wait for You will be ashamed!” Then, consider the sincere, committed, faith statement proclaimed in verse 5, “Lead me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; for You I wait all the day.”  Listen to the urgent cry of one who is fully trusting and relying on the Lord in verse 21, “Let integrity and uprightness preserve me, for I wait for You.”  The last portion of this statement could also be properly translated, “I have,” or “I place my hope in You.”  In this biblical context, to lose hope would be surrendering the future to the enemy, and even works to destroy the meaning of the present.  By embracing the waiting, King David demonstrates his confidence in the Lord, His design, purpose, plan, etc.  Therefore, the waiting is the pathway to God’s provision!     

Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth does not become weary or tired. His understanding is inscrutable. He gives strength to the weary, and to him who lacks might He increases power.

Though youths grow weary and tired, and vigorous young men stumble badly, yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary.                                            

Isaiah 40:28-31

As we approach Christmas, the time believers have set aside to celebrate our Lord’s first coming (Advent) and the promises of His eminent return (2nd Advent/Coming), perhaps it’s good for us to consider the endurance of the Old Testament prophets and the faithful, as they waited and watched for the promised Messiah, the Anointed One, Christ Jesus!   From Genesis 3:15 until His birth (thousands of years) they lived in confident anticipation awaiting His appearing (1st Advent) in accordance with over 300 Old Testament prophecies (all completed by 450 BC) concerning our Lord’s birth, life, ministry, death and resurrection. Mathematically speaking, the odds of anyone fulfilling this amount of prophecy are staggering … 1 person fulfilling 8 prophecies – 1 in 100,000,000,000,000,000; 1 person fulfilling 48 prophecies – 1 chance in 10 to the 157th power; 1 person fulfilling 300+ prophecies — Only Jesus!

Nevertheless, He came!  Just consider all that happened while they waited … He came at the appointed time (See Galatians 4:4-5) and “Whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.“ (Romans 15:4)

Today, we find ourselves, as New Testament believers, waiting.  But we wait in full faith, genuine hope (confident expectation) — knowing and believing, based on history (His Story), the promises of our Lord.  However, in the wait, there is much to be gained if we can grasp the proper perspective and escape our demands for the instant.  By the way, instant coffee or tea cannot be compared to that which was allowed to brew properly!

Yes, fellow believers and servants of Jesus Christ … think about this …  there is most likely a really good reason/purpose for the wait!

His & Yours because of GRACE (God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense)

Pastor Frank

I wait for the Lord, my soul does wait, and in His Word do I hope.                    

— Psalm 130:5

You are my hiding place and my shield; wait for Your Word.

 — Psalm 119:114

PLAGUE

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As believers in Christ Jesus, we shouldn’t presume God’s intention in the current pandemic.  However, the Lord God certainly has reason to judge humanity. Prior to all the shutdowns in America alone, 3,000+ babies were being murdered every day through abortion (far more than fatality numbers of COVID-19). Sexual immorality is running rampant in the LGBT movement as well as Christ’s church. As a culture and society, we have largely abandoned God’s Word as a standard for right and wrong, and replaced it with human perspective, reason, or speculative scientific hypothesis that’s accepted as fact. Therefore, it’s relatively easy to see why God might choose to judge our nation, and the entire world.

So perhaps the next valid question to ask might be, “Is COVID-19 a plague?” Easton’s Bible Dictionary defines a plague as “a stroke of affliction, or disease — sent as a divine chastisement.” The biblical word translated plague in the Old testament, actually comes from several words in original biblical languages. One Hebrew word for plague is daber (דָּ֑בֶר). It is often translated as plague or pestilence. Another word for plague is makkah (מַכָּה) which may also denote other concepts besides what is understood as a plague. In the Old Testament, a plague may appear to have occurred by natural causes as in Amos 4:10. At other times, plagues appear to be a more direct assault from God as in the Hebrew word, nega (נֶגַע), in Exodus 11:1 … Now the Lord said to Moses, “One more plague I will bring on Pharaoh and on Egypt.”

The New Testament terms for plague all function in a similar manner, with several words being translated as plague in different versions of the scripture. Nevertheless, plege’ is the most common word used for plague in our New Testaments. While not always to be understood or translated as God’s judgment upon a group of people, the term might undoubtedly describe such an event. For example, Jesus uses the Greek word, loimos, when he declared of Jerusalem, “There will be great earthquakes, and in various places famines and pestilences” in Luke 21:11. Revelation 15:1 uses plege’,

Then I saw another sign in heaven, great and amazing, seven angels with seven plagues, which are the last, for with them the wrath of God is finished.

As one considers (weighs) how/what to think during this challenging and difficult time, it’s always appropriate and even expedient to remember the words of Job,

The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.

Job 1:21

Even when it seems as if our world is breaking into pieces and falling apart, our God is, and always will be, in control. The Lord definitely knows what’s going on, and is intimately involved in this crisis (whether natural or man-made, lie or true), as well as in every situation! That includes your life and mine. Therefore, in whatever manner you’ve been affected by this virus-crisis, God sees/fully knows every detail and is merciful according to Psalm 145:9. Continue to trust Him despite the chaos that may surround you and others … undoubtedly, He has proven Himself worthy of our confidence, as well as our worship — over and over, again and again!

God’s prophet, Samuel, spoke openly with the Lord’s people in I Samuel 12:24 – Only fear the Lord and serve Him in truth with all your heart; for consider what great things He has done for you.

Due to the fact that the consequences of COVID-19 are so severe, it easily qualifies as a plague of biblical proportion. Nonetheless, that doesn’t mean that all of a sudden our pagan, self-centered world comes running to Christ Jesus in repentance, or that it even stops to pray to the Lord, God Almighty, asking Him to bring wisdom and/or destroy the virus. No, instead, too many look to and trust human effort and resources to resolve the issue. Perhaps a much greater power and a little humility is needed! Don’t get me wrong, I love the idea that our society has an attitude of let’s pull up our boot straps, dig in, work hard, and beat this thing! But to believe victory is possible without the Lord’s help, Who dearly prizes the creation that’s made in His own image, is absolutely heretical lunacy.     

Lord, let us be of sound mind, believing/knowing that our help comes from You, that Your ways are higher than ours, and that only the fool functions in a mindset that chooses to deny Your existence, omniscience, and omnipotence!  Please think on things above, not the things of this world and pray for healing, coupled with genuine repentance.

–PF

BETTER

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So, we ask this question, “Will 2022 be better than 2021?”

The answer lies in one’s definition of “better” and how much one allows our distressed world to impact that definition. 

Psalm 63:3-4 reminds us …

Because Your loving kindness is better than life, my lips will praise You. So I will bless You as long as I live; I will lift up my hands in Your name.

The Hebrew word, “towb” is an adjective (rarely used in the O. T. language) which denotes a clarification or serves as a modifier to another word.  In this usage, “better” implies delightfully good in every sense!  Therefore, in essence and context, our Lord’s lovingkindness is better than life itself! 

In this case, King David feasted upon the spiritual delicacies of his relationship with the Lord, rather than any material objects or anything this world offered/afforded him. This human found extreme satisfaction in simply praising God! It brought great joy and abiding comfort to his own soul. He praised God for His “lovingkindness” (Hebrew – checed; meaning His steadfast love; grace; mercy; faithfulness; goodness; and devotion) which according to Psalm 63:1, David thought more of than life-sustaining water! Wow, what an implausible perspective – a genuine, as well as authentic, understanding of that which actually makes life a blessing – and well worth the living. 

Then we have the marvelous revelation of Psalm 118:8-9 …

It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man (an individual, human being, mankind). It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in princes (any form of governmental authority or power).

It is far wiser, more comfortable, and safer — in fact, there is more reason to trust in the Lord than anything — if one is devoted to His guidance and governing with an entire dependence upon God’s wisdom, power, goodness and grace.

True confidence in one’s Lord, if it’s Christ alone, works to make a human believer invincible and fearless. Consider the courage of Moses, Daniel, the three Hebrew young men, Nehemiah, and the statement of the apostle Paul to the Elders at Ephesus in Acts 20:24 concerning his own unknown future as he traveled to Jerusalem.

But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God.

In the account given in Hebrews 10:32-36, the author speaks to believers who have suffered for Christ’s sake, declaring that they all have a “better possession and a lasting one” than that of the properties they lost to seizure.  Then they are reminded in the midst of their suffering to, “not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised.”

Paul has a somewhat confusing outlook about “better” — at least from a human viewpoint.

For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. But if I am to live on in the flesh, this will mean fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which to choose. But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better; yet to remain on in the flesh is more necessary for your sake.

So, will 2022 be a better year?  

Is the Lord’s lovingkindness better than life?

Is the Lord truly one’s refuge, better than that of any human or institution?

Is the possession of Christ’s promises better than any other possession?

For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand outside. I would rather stand at the threshold of the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness. For the Lord God is a sun and shield; The Lord gives grace and glory; No good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly. O Lord of hosts, how blessed is the man who trusts in You!

Psalm 84:10-12

I’m sincerely and steadfastly praying for you, your family, and our entire ministry at WOF, that 2022 will be a better year as we fully embrace His promises, recognizing that His lovingkindness is better than life itself, find our refuge in Him, and dwell in His courts. -PF   

SHIELD

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

Many forms of weaponry are mentioned throughout the biblical text. While some are employed for defensive measures, and others are primarily used for offense, a few are used to demonstrate God’s character and help believers understand the significance of His power, His Word, and His Holy Spirit’s presence in our lives.

Consider the reference to shields found in the scripture. One is the Hebrew word, “tsinnah,” a large heavy shield designed to protect and guard the whole body. You may recall that in the case of Goliath, his shield was actually even carried by another person. The second shield is the Hebrew word, “maghen,” which was a much smaller device used by groups of soldiers that had to move quickly like archers, cavalry, and those in close combat situations. Figuratively, these shields illustrate God’s protection, God’s truth, and His provision of salvation. Psalm 18:30 speaks clearly of our Lord’s continuous and inexorable protection:

As for God, His way is blameless; the word of the LORD is tried; He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him.

A third shield, the Greek word “thureos” is introduced by the apostle Paul in Ephesians 6:16 which is familiar to most believers.

“In addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.”

This reference describes a Roman or Greek shield regularly used by an attacking or besieging army to defend themselves against arrows, flaming arrows, darts, stones, and flaming touches launched mechanically or thrown by those being besieged (the defenders).

In this consideration, the New Testament shield, while used to protect the individual soldier, was an essential and critical tool used during an advancing army’s assault on the enemy. Spiritually speaking, we often discuss the divinely empowered weapons of our warfare, yet fail to identify this portion of God’s armor as part of an offensive strategy. In fact we put on the whole armor of God to go out offensively and defeat the enemy! God’s armor is for advancing – for assaulting and attacking the enemy. We are not to be found sitting back, hoping and praying that our defensive positions will hold. Successful spiritual warfare means going after the enemy – moving forward with an offensive assault.

According to II Corinthians 10:4, aren’t we are called to “the destruction of fortresses?” How does one destroy the fortresses of our enemy without launching an assault or attack on those fortresses? God’s armor is provided for the battles we must fight, and every piece is essential for victory.

A soldier with a very sharp and effective sword still needs the protection that the armor provides. In fact, it would be foolish for one of God’s soldiers to enter the battle without the proper protective gear and a sharp, effective, offensive weapon. The Sword of God’s Spirit which is the Word of God must be wielded in battle to overcome and defeat the enemy, but just imagine the casualties, the body count, if there was no faith in Christ/God, no Shield of Faith, and no protection for the saints.

Imagine yourself, out on the battlefield, engaging in combat, attacking the enemy, standing firm on the ground you’ve gained, yet you’ve failed to “put on the full armor of God!” (See Ephesians 6:11) Wonder how long one could survive?

Just think about it! — Pastor Frank

GROW

Posted on by West Oaks Fellowship

“Like newborn babies, long for the pure (spiritual) milk of the Word, so that by it you may GROW (up) in respect to (your) salvation.”

I Peter 2:2

God’s plan for all believers is growth! If that’s the case, then one must ask, what causes or stimulates this growth? In plant life, growth occurs through proper exposure to the sun, appropriate quantities of water and fertilizer, protection from plant enemies like bugs, fungi, etc., and occasional pruning.

Human physical growth, in much the same manner, demands suitable nourishment as well as a safe/protected environment. Spiritually, the same concepts hold true! This verse clearly demonstrates that the intake of God’s Word is what nurtures our spiritual development and Christian maturity.

Ephesians 4:15 (from where we derive our church’s slogan, “Sharing The Truth In Love”) reminds believers to speak the truth in love and “to grow-up in all aspects” of Christianity. This growth/maturity is achieved by craving – just as a new baby intensely yearns for the milk of mother’s breast – the spiritual food that flows from God’s Word into your mind/soul/spirit! The primary Greek verb used here, “auzano” or “auxanoo,” means to increase. Just as a healthy tree continues to increase throughout all of its life, continually adding dimensions of its circumference, the depth and strength of its roots, and its height, the work of God is increased, becoming greater and greater, stronger and stronger!

As we read on in I Peter 2:4-6, we find a transition, our spiritual transformation into “living (lively) stones,” “rejected by men, but choice/precious in the sight of God.” Believers are built up in their growth and maturity as a “spiritual house for a holy priesthood” in order “to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ!” This transformation occurs as that fresh, pure (holy) spiritual milk of God’s Word occupies our minds and hearts, growing us up in our salvation and strengthening us to become like the tree mentioned in Psalm 1:2. This tree (representing an individual) is big, strong, healthy, and deeply rooted in the stream of God’s living water. This water is His Word and Holy Spirit which are providing proper nourishment, causing the tree to bear and continually produce, for picking and distribution, a high good quality fruit. Psalm 1:3 tells us that this tree’s leaf does not wither (grow weary in doing good i.e. producing fruit – Gal. 6:9, II Thess. 3:13); and whatever this particular, spiritually strong, mature tree (individual life) engages in is success/prosperous in God’s economy/viewpoint.

Now to the more difficult matter. . . What kind of tree are you? A little twig bent over by the smallest breeze, struggling for survival, or a maturing, stately, majestic fruit producing tree? The choice seems to be 100% ours with the end result depending on our intake/consumption of God’s pure Word. Certainly an intake of once or twice a week from the preacher can’t be enough to make you the righteous man/woman who will flourish like the palm tree, GROW like a cedar in Lebanon, be planted in the house of the LORD, flourish in the courts of our God, still yield fruit in old age, always be full of sap, and very green! (–From Psalm 92:12-14)

Just think about it! Hope to see you & yours this Sunday. — Pastor Frank