I Sing but do I See?

 The Battle Hymn of the Republic stirs the soul  when heard or sung. The story behind it is interesting. However, what the words say seem to have lost their 'punch' to many in America today. 'Mine eyes have see  the glory of the coming of the Lord' is the opening line. It appears to me that there are forces in America and elsewhere   

 

intent on blinding the Nation to the Truths of Scripture woven in that hymn.

The Lord is portrayed as 'meek and mild' by many. They forget the military term 'Lord of Hosts' is His. He is the Commander. His 'sword' is the Word of God with which He judges the nation and individuals. Verse 3 in my hymnal mentions being sifted before His 'judgement seat'. That is our accounting time. How will any of us, and particularly those in Government 'answer Him?' Will it be with 'jubilant feet?' 

In verse 2 is mention 'His righteous sentence'. What would you think that 'righteous sentence' from the Bible might be? There are many from which to chose. From the hymn itself I wonder if it is referring to the singer's relationship of faith in Jesus as Lord and Saviour? Read 1 John 3:2-3.

The mention of the death of Christ in verse 4 would seem to me to undergird the whole of the hymn. The cross isn't a piece of jewelry it is what Jesus endured to deliver us from sin, Satan and eternal death. Jesus is our reason, not merely for the season of Christmas, but for holiness, truth and defending the lives of those in the womb. It goes beyond borders to helping the impoverished and seeking justice where there is injustice, to cite a few issues.

Each verse ends with the idea that God and His word are marching. Actually, after His battle on Calvary, Jesus ascended to His Father's presence. He is seated, waiting the appointed time to return. We are the ones called upon to do the marching, the confronting, the living out of His teachings and if need be, to die for His cause.

Christians around the World, and even in America, are facing morally and spiritually difficult and even dangerous days. We need to make sure our vision from our faith is clear. We need to be confident in the person in whom we live and move and have our being, only Jesus. We need to watch out for each other, worship and share the Gospel.

May each and every time we sing 'Mine Eyes have seen the Glory' it thrills the soul.

Copyright Ray Hawkins Dec 2020. 

Prayer's wardrobe

'I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness…' Isaiah 61:10.

           

Grandchildren in concert

God has certain ‘dress standards’ for His people. His requirement for priests was holiness when they came into His presence. The book of Leviticus stresses this fact over and over again. God delights also in the prayers of His people. Isaiah 56:7: ‘these I will bring to my holy mountain and give them joy in my house of prayer...for my house will be called a house of prayer for all nations.’ That applies to a future temple but at the same time there is a glorious principle to apply to ourselves. We are the “household of God” (Hebrews 3:6) as well as being His temple. (1 Corinthians 6:19, 20) Such being the case implies God wants us all to be a ‘house of prayer’.  That means we must worship and serve Him in the beauty of Holiness. To approach Him otherwise is to be denied a hearing. Why? Isaiah 57:15: ‘this is what the high and lofty One says ―he who lives for ever, whose name is holy: ‘I live in a high and lofty place, but also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit’…’

We must consider holiness as the atmosphere of ‘the house of prayer.’ Within the house will be hanging various garments in which to be dressed when talking with the Lord.  Philippians 4:6 reveals some different clothes hanging up and waiting for us to ‘put on.’ ‘Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.’ Paul repeats a similar point to Timothy in 1Timothy 2:1–2.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:16 the readers were urged to pray continually. This is impossible if it implies without a break. God however does the impossible even with His ‘house of clay.’ His purpose is to have the Holy Spirit exercise His delight in praying in His house (Romans 8:26–27). Only then can we be in an unceasing prayer mode. As we walk, talk, sit and sing, the Holy Spirit prays freely in His prayer chapel. When we stumble the Holy Spirit’s prayers are stifled by a grieving process. Our garment is soiled, spoiled and defiled by unholiness (Ephesians 4:21–30). Fortunately there is provision for our cleansing and restoring His prayer ministry. He wants to take us to the cleaner. ‘If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.’ (1 John 1:9)

Being a moveable spiritual house for God means He can place us anywhere. Circumstances which we may or may not like or choose can be turned into prayer matters. He does this so as to achieve His purposes. There often is needed an effort of the will not to allow a negative attitude to prevail over us in unpleasant situations. A consciousness of the situation helps to choose the right ‘gear’ to make our request to the Lord. Should we be called upon to confront seditious, cunning and depraved leaders we will need Christ’s Battle gear. Remember Ephesians 6:10–18. We are Christ’s commandos defending Truth and Righteousness.

Being a pastor means there are times to be ‘dressed’ in the robes of a shepherd. This ‘robe’ is made for the heart as well as the mind. We are not only to feed the ‘flock’ but protect it from the wolves and robbers by using the Lord’s rod and staff. Sheep can be mauled or do self harm. It is then our oil of specific prayer and godly wisdom is to be applied where they are and as it is needed.

There are many more ‘clothing choices’ we could consider. Pursue that at your leisure. However there is one type of garment for an effective prayer life within ‘the house.’ This is strictly for a husband and also a father. This is perhaps the most demanding apparel because it is the one most often worn. The tragedy of Christian homes falling apart is due in no small part because the husband/father is not properly ‘dressed or groomed.’ Unfortunate but true it applies to those in ministry households.

Men should seek the ‘spiritual ‘tailor’ to fashion a designer suit to wear at home with the family. He has set out specifications in 1 Peter 3:7. Ephesians 5:25–33. 6:4. 1Timothy 3:1-10. The garment best designed for this setting would be the relaxed casual suit tailored for all household activities. This ‘suit’ will need regular cleaning. However by the grace of God the knees never wear out, the shoulders refuse to sag, it will not be too small or large or go out of date. God’s prayer suit for a husband/father is the most precious garment in the ‘wardrobe.’  What is the more remarkable about such a ‘suit’ is it can be duplicated in the lives of the children, especially the boys. There can be no greater joy for a godly father than to witness his children seeking the heart of God. What a thrill to see their desire to be dressed in a similar style to dad.

Request:  Lord, Are there items in my ‘wardrobe’ needing removal, mending, dusting down or added too once again? Be Thou my Tailor for whatever task you have in mind for me. Amen.

Thankfulness in ministry.

Key Insight: Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18

His life and ministry was nearing its climax. There were some things he had to share with his son in the faith, Timothy. It appears that this young man was having a tough time in the work at Ephesus. To encourage him Paul writes his first letter to Timothy. Over the years I thank God for those who have encouraged me in ministry.

The aged apostle expressed his gratitude to God for appointing him to the work of the ministry. (1Timothy 1:12) I wonder how Timothy took this. He knew the trials and tribulations which had pursued Paul since the Damascus road conversion. (2 Timothy 3:10-12). Paul in effect was saying, “Cheer up my son, it’s in the tough times you appreciate the grace of God. I know this from my experiences.”

To thrive rather than merely survive in the Lord’s service requires an inner strength. This power goes beyond what a gym can provide. Paul confessed that the strength for ministry flowed from Jesus. He works it in the believer and is known in everyday life and tribulations. The Greek word Paul used, endunameo, means ‘in-strengthened’. He used this word in Philippians 4:13, ‘I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.’ This was no glib saying or pious bumper sticker. Here was his personal testimony through the rough and tumble of life’s complexity and difficulties.

We live in a corrupt world. Here the holiness of God, the Cross of Christ and His salvation lifestyle are opposed, slandered and ignored. As His representatives we will face similar treatment to varying degrees. The hardest to handle are not those outside the Church who give us a rough time. The hardest will be the ‘Corinthian spirit’ within the Church (1 Corinthians 3:1-4).  Disciples and servants of Christ can be driven from the ministry and worship by such carnal pressures. Such ungodliness should drive the faithful to the heart of Jesus. There the strength to endure will be found.

 The time frame Paul alluded to is interesting. Jesus considered him faithful long before Paul had been appointed to the ministry. Any who are called to serve the Lord should find this a wonderful encouragement. In my case Jesus saw beyond my immaturity and frivolity and considered me faithful. In spite of obvious weaknesses the Lord took me under His supervision. He wrought out of me what He first worked in. Jesus is the faithful one. His trust in you is personal. Here's an unbeatable incentive to honour his confidence.

Faithfulness doesn’t mean failure-less. Faithfulness doesn’t mean having all the answers. Faithfulness is remaining true to the Lord and His Word. Faithfulness means learning from personal mistakes, finding wisdom, forgiving and being forgiven. Many a congregation must surely warrant some type of medal from the Lord for their grace and patience with novice preachers. Fortunate are those beginners in the pulpit who have some sensitive and godly person take them under their ‘wing.’ A good example of such a thing happening in the New Testament concerned Aquila and Priscilla. This couple got beside Apollos, invited him into their home, and explained the way of God more adequately. (Acts 18:26).

     

Paul was apostle, prophet and pastor beyond peer. In 1 Timothy 1:12 he used one of the lowliest term to describe the heights of Christian service. Paul was eternally grateful that Jesus had made him a deacon, a table waiter. Why choose this title? Probably because it was the one Jesus applied to Himself in Matthew 20:28, ‘…the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve…’ Jesus served Humanity as a Deacon. He most wonderfully demonstrated that at the Passover meal by washing the disciples’ feet. Paul would not presume to put himself above his Lord. Nor should we!

Reflection: In your present stage of ministry how burns the passion? Do you need to find a quiet place and regain your inner strength from your Lord?  He has counted you faithful!What are you doing to prove His verdict correct?

Request: Strengthen me within so that I might be faithful for you. May those who are looking to me in the various stresses and strains of ministry know you are my endunameo Amen!

Ray Hawkins Oct 19th. 2015.

Jesus is no pacifist!

War is sometimes necessary to curb, control and conquer evil. This is so evident with such devilish groups as IS and the Islamic Caliphate rampaging in the Middle East. We may wish it wasn’t so but we know they, and others, will not be stopped by reason but by force. The Bible revealed God commissioned men such as Joshua to deal with the evil by the sword. In Canaan were seven nations corrupt and degenerate who had despoiled the Lord’s special ‘patch.’ (Genesis 15:1-21) It is often overlooked that these nations were given over 500 years of grace to change their ways. They didn’t! God would need to bring judgement upon them.

There is a principle evident here. Grace precedes judgement. Evidence of that is Rahab and her family in Joshua 6. How she heard of Yahweh’s intentions and what brought her to faith is not amplified. This woman grasped God’s grace and was, with her family, spared the sword. How many others at that time had a similar opportunity but spurned it we will never know.

I find it intriguing how some spruik the notion that the God of the Old Testament is a warmonger. They then compare Him with Jesus in the Gospels who talks about love and loving your enemies. In actual fact The Yahweh (Jehovah) of those 39 books is the Jesus of the Gospels and the other New Testament books. In a later blog I’ll show some of the unbreakable links.

God has surrounded Himself with numerous titles. The one most fitting for this blog is the title ‘Lord God of Host’. It is a military term. His legions are the angels of Heaven. When Jesus was taken to be crucified He declared that with a command they would come to His aid, immediately! Matthew 26:53. Once again grace preceded justice. Our Lord, however, forewarned His antagonists and supporters in Matthew 24 of events which would lead to the final showdown between the Kingdom of Light and the Kingdom of Darkness.

Christmas steals our hearts with its message and images of a baby in the manager. In Micah’s prophesy (5:2-15) relating to this event we stop at verse two and often try and ignore the rest. Christ’s coming as a baby to live amongst Israel and be delivered as a ransom in fulfilment of Scripture is love made tangible. The message He gave His disciples was and is of grace offered to be received by faith. Should that be spurned they put themselves on a war footing. This is highlighted by the angels to the disciples on the Mount of Olives (Acts 1:8-11). When the Lord returns He will comes on the clouds and to the same mountain from which He ascended to Heaven. Zechariah 14:4. Speaks of that event. Those angels were verifying the fact that the period of grace will end one day. When that happens the Lord Jesus returns as the Lord God of Hosts.

What then elevates Jesus from out of the ranks of tyrants? What lifts Him above all the mythological gods and such claimants to allegiance as blood thirsty and cruel Allah? A number of facets from His revealed character makes Jesus more than a noble warrior, more than a crusading general and more than God with a mission of wrath. From the Scriptures Jesus is shown to be holy, without sin and this saturates everything He is and does. His love (which we enjoy dwelling upon) is holiness expressed. His mercy is holiness extended to its utmost limits (for which we should be thankful). Therefore, when He makes war on those who trample underfoot His Name, desecrate His temple, murder His followers, deny His existence, cross and resurrection, His wrath is not simply an emotional vendetta. It is Justice, controlled by holiness and dictated by giving His opponents time to repent. This allows them to accept the grace of forgiveness. But, when Christ’s patience runs out, His sword of judgement will be raised. Rest assured it too is controlled by holiness.

Individuals and nations rant and rave against the Lord God revealed in the Bible. Religions such as Islam dishonour, discredit and disfigure the Jesus unveiled in the Bible. They place themselves on a collision course with Christ Jesus.

Such a meeting will either take the moment after death or in the ‘valley of decision,’ Armageddon!

God has the last word and what it will be depends upon our trust in Jesus who entered our world to save us from His sword of judgement. His holy patience has its own timetable which allows you and others to own Him as your personal Lord and Saviour. But always remember this, His holy love and mercy doesn’t make Him a pacifist. Neither will it allow Him to bend His word or be bribed by so called ‘good deeds.’ His holiness motivates justice to gird on His sword to conquer and eliminate evil. Until that day the Gospel of Grace unleashed at the cross is offered. To shun the message is to place yourselves under the threat of the sword. That time is drawing ever nearer when it will be wielded.

 

©Ray Hawkins July 2015

Don't mess with 'The Fire!'

  Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire. Hebrews 12:28–29.

 

God had a plan for the Nation of Israel. It included very specific worship and ministry requirements. When the Tabernacle and Priesthood were being instituted the family of Aaron was given the Priesthood. At the outset it was stressed such a venue and ministry was unique. It was set apart from the everyday and linked to the very character of Yahweh.  The ordination for the Priesthood begins in Leviticus 8 and 9 in a very impressive and symbolic manner. Aaron and his four sons had detailed instructions to follow.

 

The sons of Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar had the wonder of being ordained to ministry. This was the culmination of an encounter with God on Mount Horeb. Had it been too much for Nadab and Abihu’s egos? Something possessed Nadab and Abihu to imagine they knew better than that which Yahweh had outlined. Leviticus 10:1 says they offered unauthorised fire before the Lord. Their self will changed celebration into lamentations. God struck them down. Why? Because what they were offering did not measure up to the nature of God. He is described in Scripture as a 'consuming fire.' Therefore the fire of worship and ministry must be that which matches His character. How is that possible? Only by obeying His directions.

Leviticus 10:9 sees the Lord add to the ordination requirement, ‘you and your sons are not to drink wine or other fermented drink whenever you go into the tent of meeting, or you will die.’ Does this give us a clue to what caused Nadab and Abihu to act so irresponsibly? The Lord required those who worship Him and, more so those who minister before Him, to be clear headed and self controlled. It is interesting to note that the kings of Israel had similar obligations. (Proverbs31:4–5) If we consider ourselves as ‘kings and priests’ of the Lord God do such restrictions apply today? If not, why not?

It would appear as though they had chosen to enter into the precincts of the Tabernacle to do their own thing. They would worship or serve God as they thought best. Here was a serious breach of trust, an act of disrespect and a challenge to the authority of the Lord. They had been redeemed and commissioned for His purposes. Their death was to be a testimony to the danger of abusing the grace and glory of God. Why? ‘You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.’ Exodus 20:7. Are we in this era down playing God's word on morality, marriage and the uniqueness of salvation and acceptance with God through the cross? Are so many in church leadership possessed with a mindset similar to Nadad and Abihu?

Leviticus 10:10–11: ‘You must distinguish between the holy and the common, between the unclean and the clean, and you must teach the Israelites all the decrees the Lord has given them through Moses.’ The history of Israel details the conflict between His holiness and the tendency of the nation to drag it down. Leviticus 21:6.says, ‘They (priests) must be holy to their God and must not profane the name of their God. Because they present the offerings made to the Lord by fire, the food of their God, they are to be holy.’ Malachi’s account of the moral and religious attitude of the priests and people of his day makes depressing reading. ‘You profane it (God’s Name) by saying of the Lord’s table, ‘It is defiled’, and of its food, ‘it is contemptible.’ And you say,’ What a burden!’ and you sniff at it contemptuously.’ Malachi 1:12–13. God is patient but does not hold off forever intervening in such situations with severe and righteous discipline.

We are  living in  a period of time when the spirit of Nadad and Abihu is news headlines. Greed and sexual misconduct abound, child abuse and acceptance of relationships condemned in scripture is rampant to highlight but a few. Then we wonder why worship is unsatisfying and attendances declining.  

 

Ministers of the Gospel are to uphold the holiness of the Eternal God, the integrity of the Cross and the uniqueness of the person and work of Jesus Christ. All disciples of Christ are under the same calling. Familiarity, unfortunately, can breed contempt or coarseness with sacred things. Wanting to be popular within a culture can seduce  ministers and people to be silent about unpopular teachings. A healthy fear of our Lord is our only safeguard. In our presentations we have latitude of method but we have no room to move in regards to the message of the Cross, the morality He demands or the mission to which we are called. Culture has its challenges to making the Bible relevant. Regardless of the cultural environment Christ Jesus’ servants live in, the Gospel and the Glory of God must remain unchanged. Hebrews 12:10: ‘Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no-one will see the Lord.’

Reflection: What is the quality of the ‘fire’ that burns within my being? Is what I’m saying, doing and living acceptable to the Lord God I am called upon to honour and proclaim?

Request: I do not want my ministry and lifestyle to take your Name in vain.  May the fire that burns within be what you have started and maintained by your Holy Spirit. Amen.

 

 

Let's Blame God!

God gets bad press whenever something upsets us. Whether it is personal sorrow, inflicted by self or others, God is accused as the perpetrator. The catastrophes of war and disease are said to be preventable, if God did something about them.

During the week of February 1^st 2015 Stephen Fry, well known actor and T.V. personality, added his unflattering assessment about God. Given an opportunity to charge the Creator, who Stephen doesn’t believe exists anyway, he would call Him a monster. There is something within the human psyche which doesn’t want to accept personal responsibility for the world’s turmoil. People want God to stop what they don’t like but ignore what they do like doing, despite the fact God is offended by their actions and attitude. Imagine the howls of protest if the Lord God of Holiness enforced His standard of morality as set out in the Bible.

By blaming God for personal issues and the mess the World is in gives people a sense of moral superiority. It makes them judges of what should be and innocent victims when reaping what they have sown. What is also revealed is an ignorance of why the nations, societies and individuals are in such a sorry and warlike state. To reject the very existence of God doesn’t solve the problem. It actually compounds the despair and injustices with hopelessness for wrong can never be righted by a higher entity. To have a sense of God but no framework by which to understand Him (or Her or It) will give rise to all types of weird and not so wonderful images.

The God who seems to be silent and invisible has not left Humankind in the dark about His Being. He has spoken! He has left His imprimatur upon Creation (see below for some references). He has raised up certain scribes through whom He has made His defence for why things are as they are in the World. At the same time this God of holiness and truth has expressed what He requires from each of us and that there is a future accounting. More than that, what has been recorded promises a whole New World Order in which righteousness, truth, grace and love rule. Unfortunately, this means that those who curse God and reject righteousness and truth are denied entrance.

Where can we find the mind of the vocal God and signposts pointing to places where His presence is felt and ‘fingerprints’ are evident? In the 66 books called the Judeo-Christian Bible, from Genesis to Revelation. Some may still want to accuse the Author of these books as being out of touch with our human condition. “You don’t understand what I’m facing, feeling or fleeing!” Such thinking is a universe away from reality. Here is the wonder of the invisible God, untouchable by sinful people. He has come into our world and in our form and within world history. The Bible revealed Him as Jesus (Greek translation of the Hebrew Joshua) who lived in Israel under Rome’s occupation. He understands the Human situation more than we can ever realise. Because of that He has set in motion Heavenly forces to usher in new beginnings and a new relationship with God and a hope which stand with you in the darkest of times.

How can anyone be sure of this promise?
Consider who Jesus is, what He has taught but more than that, what He achieved. For when He was crucified this Jesus became the vilest of the vile and the lowest of the low. How? He was cursed by National leaders, forsaken by friends but that wasn’t the issue. Jesus willingly identified with you, me, all creation in our blaming God the Father for our sin, indifference, plight, although Jesus in and of Himself was sinless. In essence Jesus said to the Father “put all their offences on me. Let me bear your Judgement upon them. Use this unjust verdict of the cross to offer forgiveness, hope and a new lifestyle for men and women”.

What a wonderful ideal. How do we know it happened and does the offer still stands? Because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. Because the good news of His triumph is still being offered and people are being transformed from hopelessness to

godliness and purpose. This doesn’t mean believers in Jesus will be immune from life’s sorrows and uncertainties. What it means is they have an understanding of why the world is a mess and what the Lord has done to change it.

Let Jesus lift you out of the ‘blame game’ and into the ‘acclaim game’ of gratitude to God. For whether the World likes it or not, God will have the last word. Because of faith in Jesus His word will be “welcome”. Reject Jesus as Lord and Saviour and insist on blaming God for ‘whatever’ is to hear the dreadful last word “depart”.

Some Bible readings.

Psalm 19.

Isaiah 53.

Romans 1.

Hebrews 1.

Hebrews 4

©Ray Hawkins February 15 2015

Why Persecution?

Sunday November 2^nd 2014 was Solidarity with the Suffering Church day. In Australia nearly 700 churches participated in this event. Many Christians wore T-shirts with the Arabic letter for ‘N’ emblazoned on is front. This came about from the Islamic Caliphate terrorist group painting that letter on Christian homes. It stood for ‘Nazarene’ that is Jesus of Nazareth, and it marked out those who were His followers. In many instances these disciples were martyred.

Persecution isn’t an experience confined to Christians. It is a worldwide, cross cultural and religious barriers phenomenon. Persecution stems from the heart of people twisted by strange, evil, undefined or antagonistic motives. Such emotions seeks to crush those with differing views or who unsettle personal prejudices and convictions. Unfortunately the Christian Faith endures what appears to be attacks from many quarters simply on the basis of commitment to Christ and the testimony of the cross.

The English word ‘Persecution’ comes from the Latin ‘prosequi’ meaning to prosecute and the Anglo/French word ‘pursuer’ to pursue. The intent is to treat badly and to harm.

Why do non-Christians want to eradicate the disciples of the Gospel which invites people to know what the heart longs for? What can that be?  God’s love and forgiveness, to have hope in life and beyond, to enjoy inner peace and joy regardless of whether rich or poor, healthy or unwell! The Bible tells us opposition is for two reasons (at least). One is the World doesn’t want to acknowledge that Jesus is the prophesied One of the Old Testament. That person is revealed as both Son of Man and Son of God. The second reason is due to the Cross of Christ. (1 Corinthians 1:18-24) It is the cross which says no one can earn their way into Heaven and God’s favour. It is a declaration that God’s grace is to be accepted by faith and commitment to Jesus as Lord and Saviour.

This message is resisted, not because it is untrue or unverifiable. It is fought against not because it demeans or degrades. It is opposed because Christ Jesus not only has dealt with sin and offences against His Heavenly Father, but because He calls for a transformed life. People want to know forgiveness and experience love, joy and peace yet cling to their ungodly lifestyle. It amazes me how you can join any religious group by saying ‘yes’ to a number of untested statements but not have a change of heart. All that is required is saying some memorised prayers and perform some religiously ordained rituals. You can still lust, hate, steal, abuse others, lie, even murder and be ungodly in mind and behaviour and be considered a ‘good member of that religion. Jesus Christ will have none of that.

When a person accepts Christ as Lord and Saviour it begins a creative act by Him. Christ Jesus changes the person’s destiny from Hell to Heaven, raises the believer from spiritual death to a new life with eternity in it. In effect the person has a new heart, one that longs to know God’s will in preference to one’s selfish desires. (read 2 Corinthians 5) What the Lord Jesus does is give a new lifestyle to go with His high calling. It is a call to holy living above and beyond outward observances.

When this begins to take place a strange reaction sets in from former friends, even family, who are unsettled by the new you. Attempts are made to get you to recant your new found faith or to trip you up through temptation to your former life. Should this fail harsher methods are introduced such as ostracism from their presence to so called, ‘honour killings.’ The motive behind all these attacks is simple. They see what the Gospel can do to a person but they personally don’t want to surrender their pride, passions or prejudices to Truth. So there is only one thing to do, destroy the object which disturbs. So begins persecution of either an individual or a group.

Jesus warned His disciples that to follow Him was a dangerous, even life threatening choice. It stems from the fact that Jesus was not and is not part of this world’s system. They sought to destroy Him, but couldn’t, so the next thing is to destroy His people. Little do such persecutors realise that Christians are kept by the power of the risen Lord. Even if martyred or enslaved they have a place reserved for them in the presence of the Eternal Triune God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. (John 14-16. 1 Peter 1.)

In the face of all the opposition and persecution men and women of all ages still choose Christ Jesus as the Way, the Truth and the Life. Why? Because He is all that and more!

Heaven's 'Dress Code'

Strange how entrance requirements for Heaven or Paradise fluctuate, depending upon whom you ask. After a documentary on Gadaffi, depraved and brutal ruler of Libya an Iman was asked a pointed question. Did he expect Gadaffi to go to Paradise? “Yes” said the Iman. A Roman Catholic Archbishop had a T.V.  'Q and A' programme with Atheists. In a concluding and confused statement he said he expected to see them in heaven. Add to that, most of the community, regardless of lifestyle, religious faith or lack of it, consider Heaven (if there is one) their destiny.

Surely, if there is a place called Heaven, there must be some standard for entrance. For such a place means that Its Creator owns and dwells there. How can any of us know what He is like and what His dress requirements are for entrance? Sounds discriminatory, the word our World is trying to eradicate. Too bad! He does have the last word after all in life’s matters. The question each of us needs to answer is ‘Where can I find the required information for acceptance in Heaven?’ Most people would say that is the realm of religion. True! However, which Faith system has the best credentials?

I’ve bet my life on the credentials of the Bible and its revelation of the Person who is Heaven’s Lord. We know Him as Jesus Christ. Heaven’s inhabitants revere Him as Yahweh, Son of God, the Logos. When you read about Him and His dwelling place it becomes crystal clear entrance requires an impossible dress code for we earth inhabitants. We are told that ‘without holiness’ it is impossible to see the Lord, (Hebrews 12:14) let alone get past whoever is on the ‘gate’. In our most impressive moments of self-evaluation holy would not be a term we would apply to ourselves. For the word embraces concepts, behaviour and character traits which strip all our pretence of measuring up to Heaven’s dress code.

Holiness speaks of purity in mind, thought, action and relationships. Holiness is being unblemished in our worship of the Eternal God. Holiness reveals that a person is partaker of the sacred, thereby separated from the defilement of our Sin nature and its multitude of expressions. Holiness says to us “Unless there is a miracle you will never be fitted out for Heaven’s dress requirement.” Why? Simply because holiness isn’t a deodorant to splash on or a perfume to cover our body odour or soul's cesspool. Holiness can never be manufactured by so called ‘good works’ (they have our foul fingerprints all over them). Well intentioned promises are easily forgotten and religious ritual is an empty exercise separated from personal holiness and faith.

It begins to look as though Heaven will be an empty place, apart from the angels. It would have been without the transforming grace of God expressed in the Judeo-Christian Bible. In symbol, statement and ultimately in the Person of Jesus Christ Heaven’s dress requirement became an earthly gift. This is the message of Scripture. It is the basic theme of Christmas. It is the ultimate achievement, for us, of Calvary. It is the most wonderful gift ever offered to corrupt, wayward, ignorant, indifferent and spiritually dead people. For Christ’s life on earth stood the test under intense and sustained opposition and temptation to make Him similar to us, that is, unholy. How do we know? From the historical records and the Biblical accounts, Jesus Christ died to sin, buried it and on the third day rose again. Now He has not only prepared a place in heaven for believers, He has provided the garment which meets the code. What is that garment? It isn’t a spiritual feeling or a religious observance. It is none other than the very life of Christ indwelling us and in the eyes of the Father, covering us eternally.

How can we earn this ‘garment?’ We cannot! How then is it available? It is the gift of God to us. Ephesians 2:1-10. How do we claim it? By realising our un–holiness and its consequences. Then seeking for the cleansing, forgiveness and transforming grace of God offered to us as a faith and gratitude response. 2 Corinthians 5:11–21

I can never be good enough for heaven in my own dress code. This I know, however, I’ve been given Christ Jesus' promise of meeting Him face to Face one day. How? Because of His grace and gift to me. This is also available to anyone, to you, by a faith response, regardless of how weak you may think your faith to be. Jesus will honour your heart’s call and cleanse, forgive and transform you from the inside out and clothe you in His righteousness, which is the holy dress code of Heaven.

 ©Ray Hawkins

Heart of Stone - gone!

There’s a madness within the world scene. Every day it is being played out between nations, in communities, families and between individuals. We witness the catastrophic results in so many horrible and graphic ways. From the acts of terrorists to petty criminals to cheating partners or corrupt officials this self-destructive force holds sway. How can it be defined? Can it be controlled? Is there hope of some other controlling principle?

Psychologists, psychiatrists and philosophers have their theories as to the causes of these acts of madness. However, they cannot explain it any better than Jeremiah 17:9: ‘The heart is devious above all else; it is perverse – who can understand it?’ Within the individual is a problem that requires control and ultimately transforming. Modern thinking doesn’t like the Biblical term or its description for its presence but it remains the best explanation.

The parents of the Human race, Adam and Eve, made a choice that has infected us all. According to Genesis they were given the freedom to enjoy God’s goodness in creation with one condition. That requirement was summed up in not taking of the fruit of the knowledge of good and evil. When their self–will was aroused they crossed the boundary of God’s ‘do not enter’ and devoured the fruit. The fruit tasted delicious but their rebellion and transgression gave birth to a monster in a once perfect heart. Call it sin, as the Bible does, for it includes the very seeds of what history records as a sad tale of moral, spiritual and society breakdown.

The Hank William’s song ‘Your Cheating Heart’ is an apt description of our individual tendencies. The aftermath of such a heart is seen from corruption to law-court procedures from mayhem to wars and more. Again the Scriptures reveal a progression of the cheating heart. When not dealt with the heart becomes hardened, goes astray and is permeated by evil. (Hebrews 3:8-12)

From such hearts comes the cry “What is God doing? Why doesn’t He stop this madness? He must not exist or is indifferent to His creation!” The fact of the matter is that God has done His best to give people guidelines to control their ‘cheating heart’, the offer of a new power within their heart and forgiveness for their rebellious behaviour to Him and others. So many, indeed the majority plead for that to happen to others but to be left alone personally. An example of this is what God’s word says about sexual purity. It enriches marital life, prevents disease and creates a beautiful family relationship. When people chose to disobey that principle they have no right to blame God for marital breakdown or personal infection and guilt with shame.

God gave the Ten Commandments for the benefit of society. The wayward heart saw it as an intrusion into their right for self-expression and personal freedom. Relational breakdown, society corruption and national power plays with rampant evil consequences have followed its rejection. In certain places the plaques with the Ten Commandments have been forbidden to be hung. Must make people feel guilty and their cheating hearts don’t want to be reminded of their transgressions.

For those who crave for power to overcome the monster within God has provided. So that the seeker might understand the sincerity of God to achieve this on their behalf He recorded the build up to it in the pages of the Judeo-Christian Scriptures. It writes about the Saviour, Jesus. He is the promised Messiah the Son of God. He is also called the Great Physician for He deals with the heart matters. By virtue of His life, death and resurrection Jesus can turn a cheating heart into a faithful one. He has authority to forgive, cleans and invest in it a new power to direct and control. All He requires is your permission to ‘operate and install.’

If a person imagines that when they possess a new heart things instantaneously make them perfect they are in for a rude shock. As with any ‘operation’ there is a period of adjustment, prolonged exercise, proper diet and faithfulness to doctor’s orders. The same is true in this new spiritual and moral realm. Failure to follow the Lord’s prescriptions will cause sad and bad ill effects such as hypocrisy, Luke-warmness of spirit and an opening for the cheating heart to sneak in. any surgeon would be dismayed and disappointed with a careless patient and call him to account. So to the Great Physician. He will call those on whom He has invested His life-changing skills for an account of their new lifestyle. We will not be able to bluff Him for He is able to see our heart and has a record of our life. We are not rejected from His realm but we may not receive the full measure of His reward for faithfulness. For those who reject His moral and spiritual surgical implant of a new heart face condemnation and rejection from glory.

The promise of the Lord remains true for those fed up with their hard, deceitful and evil heart. That is ‘A new heart I will give you, and a new spirit I will put within you; and I will remove from your body the heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.’ Ezekiel 36:26

Lifestyle and health.

In Melbourne, Australia there is an International HIV-AIDS conference. A number of delegates, including a leading researcher and speaker were tragically killed in the MK17 airline which was shot down over Ukraine.

In Australia it is reported that HIV-AIDS particularly among homosexual men is one the increase once again. This is sad and reveals a careless attitude towards sexual behaviour. Around the world this devastating condition has infected millions. The importance therefore of this International conference in finding cures and helps for these people cannot be overestimated!

Unfortunately, it is doubtful is the one issue which would prevent most, if not all, of this disease from spreading will not be discussed. For people want a cure so as to allow them to continue with their preferred sexual orientation. What would decimate this plague and its sexually transmitted diseases ‘cousins’? The Biblical principle of holiness which calls upon people to abstain from sexual activity until marriage and maintain it only in marriage.

Of course this goes against the moral (immoral) atmosphere promoted in all societies around the world. The very nature of the human heart resists attempts, whether by God or government or whoever, to restrict it from doing what it wants too. However the cause and effect principle, the sow and reap consequences then comes into play. These are what so many want to beat for they desire to indulge without shame, pain or self-destruction.

People have been misinformed about what holiness means. They imagine it to be some type of miserable, negative and self-righteous behaviour that ruins fun in the sun. Actually it is the very basis for happiness and self-esteem and meaningful relationships. It is this quality of life promoted by Jesus Christ and His word which offers health to body, soul and spirit. Holiness is the very principal for peace of mind and enjoyment without regret or fear of exposure.

This quality of life doesn’t come in pill form. It is not like an overcoat to put on as needed. Rather holiness is a way of life that takes hold of a person’s inner being and transforms, colours, motivates and protects. This isn’t natural to the human heart therefore it must be given. How? From the one who not only wrote the book outlining the lifestyle, but who gives power to live it. His name is Jesus. His book is the bible.

However what can Jesus offer to any of us who have been corrupted, crushed or dehumanised by life choices or outside forces? His promise is that He can make all things new. He offers men and women everywhere a new beginning by making them new creations (2 Corinthians 5:17). More than that, He doesn’t leave them to struggle on alone. He has provided resources so that a person will grow in the wonder of this newness and enjoy the journey to His promised destination. What are those resources? The Christian bible is the instruction manual, prayer is the language of the heart offered to him, worship is the opportunity for expressing gratitude and meeting with others to share fellowship and teaching.

God asked a question in the scriptures when He said “Why will you die?” For God had set before the people the opportunity for life, happiness and peace. They thought His way was too restrictive to their self-indulgent desires and refused His offer. Their story makes sad reading with its useless, wasted and unfulfilled existence. Jesus said He had come to give life and that life would be abundant, fulfilling, healthy and purposeful. That’s what holiness is all about. It cannot be beaten. It will not be broken. With it, by God’s grace to us in Jesus Christ, it will accompany us into eternity.

Grapes, Hops and Happiness

It was an unpleasant outcome to a marvellous day. The sons of Aaron, with their dad had just been set apart for their duties. Seven days of instruction preceded ordination. Part of their teaching dealt with doing things by God’s word. God had stressed the importance of holiness and how to approach Him.

Nadab and Abihu thought they knew better. They made up their own incense and fire believing it was good enough for God. (Leviticus 10) The Lord God struck them down. What caused these two sons of Aaron to disregard the teaching and treat lightly the character of Yahweh? Leviticus 10:8–10: ‘The Lord spoke to Aaron: “Drink no wine or strong drink, neither you nor your sons, when you enter the tent of meeting, that you may not die; it is a statute forever throughout your generations. You are to distinguish between the holy and the common, and between the unclean and the clean.”’

The bible doesn’t condemn wine or alcoholic beverages. It does condemn drunkenness. Part of the reason can be discerned in Nadab and Abihu’s attitude and behaviour. Such drinks befuddle the mind and takes control by making the person uncontrollable. Another statute about strong drink applied to the King. Proverbs 31:4-5 ‘It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine, or the rulers to desire strong drink; or else they will drink and forget what has been decreed, and will pervert the rights of all the afflicted.’

Drunkenness is a killer. It destroys the mind, relationships and careers. Its curse affects children until the third or fourth generation in numerous ways. Then people blame God for a baby affected by the scourge of a parent or grandparent more addicted to beer than to holiness. In Australia binge drinking is so rife and assaults with crippling even killing punches are now so common that Governments are concerned. However apart from penalties what can be done to change the causes for such behaviour?

I’ve known many over the years in the ‘grip of the grape’ or ‘handcuffed to hops.’ They succumbed to peer pressure because they would not accept abstinence or moderation. Others looked on life as meaningless and God, if He existed, didn’t care. Hopelessness was drowned through the bottle or glass. Trouble was it kept coming back. However I’ve also known of men and women who in their desperation and desire to break free from this evil force cried out to the Lord Jesus for help. Today their testimony is about being set free, of knowing forgiveness, cleansing, meaning and hope. Some still wear the scars of their yesteryears. However the radiance of their faces, their integrity of character and faithfulness in relationships is awesome.

The reference to priests and Kings when on duty not to be affected and infected by wine or strong drink has a spiritual lesson. This is for Christians to heed. The bible tells us that followers of Christ Jesus are ‘kings and priests’ with Him. As such we are on duty 24/7 and all year round. For me, that’s a good reason, a strong incentive and a personally satisfying motive to avoid that which would otherwise destroy my mind and body.

What Paul wrote to the believers at Corinth still applies. ‘Do you not know your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit within you, which you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you were bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body.’ 1 Corinthians 6:19–20.

Holiness is the call of God to His people. Health and happiness is His gift to those who take His word seriously. One of the many great things about the Lord Jesus Christ is this! He is always ready to give your life His heavenly make–over. Why not ask Him to accept your application right now!