Showing posts with label Happiness. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Happiness. Show all posts

Sunday, July 20, 2014

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.

Sunday, May 4, 2014

Happiness which Endures Tough Times

An old saying goes ‘There’s gold in them thar hills.’ Only trouble is you have to go and search for it.

It is a similar in regards to happiness. It isn’t found in the hills or valleys or in things although many can find enjoyment in such things. They can be likened to ‘fools gold’ for they look like the real thing but haven’t the value or lasting worth of real gold. Happiness is something that possesses the heart and mind. It proves its worth and lasting power in tough times.

Can people in Syria, Algeria, Hungary and any number of strife ridden countries know true and lasting happiness? If so, where can it be found? Strange though it may sound true and lasting happiness is founding a Person and His book. This person is Jesus Christ. His book is the Bible. The word we write as ‘happiness’ is translated ‘Blessed’ in this sacred book. In the closing letter called Revelation this term is used at least seven (7) times. That is strange when you think of it for the letter is one dealing with the future and warfare, judgement and conflict. Even the writer, John, when he penned this epistle was a prisoner of Caesar on the isle of Patmos. Yet he was happy! This is his opening words: ‘Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear and keep what is written in it; for the time is near.’ Revelation 1:3

The promise to the reader about experiencing happiness from this book is there for the receiving. Unfortunately, between the eye of the reader and the mind there can be many distractions or causes of ‘blindness.’

Happiness cannot be framed and put on the wall as a certificate of merit. To be blessed by God has its high moments of exhilaration and the quieter times of delight. Our defence against a loss of happiness is explained by John in: ‘… blessed are those who hear and keep what is written …’ It’s all in the word ‘keep’. In the NIV translation it says, ‘take it to heart’. The idea suggests a believer should be a watchman on a castle battlement keeping a lookout for enemy infiltration. Our telescope to spot danger is what is written. At the same time God’s word is a microscope. We turn it upon our soul’s attitudes and behaviour. Are we being true to what is written?

In Revelation John takes us through current and foretold events which threaten the happiness of God’s people. This explains why he joins happiness to keeping what is written. Revelation begins with the majesty of Christ and His ability to thrill the hearts of the faithful. Then it presents the judgements of Christ against all that corrupts, oppresses and denies godliness. The book concludes with the glories of Christ’s victory and the new heaven and earth. As we face uncertain times in a turbulent world, the Bible nourishes faith and strengthens hope. It also warns and informs us about coming events. As we read our understanding about God being in control grows. That’s happiness. From even a casual look around the globe there is more tears than laughter, more fear than cheer. How can any reasonable person experience the fruit of happiness which is peace, hope, love and a sense of eternal safety in the face of death? It comes from knowing that Jesus is Lord of your life and that nothing can separate you from Him. (Romans 8) Happiness is the confidence that Jesus Christ keeps His word and will share your trials and troubles and bring you ultimately into His presence. Happiness is the contentment which fills the heart knowing He has set aside a day when Justice will be meted out.

How can we be sure?

more about happiness as promised
by Christ
in my latest devotional.

Read the letter of Revelation and realise this has been given by the risen Lord Jesus to guard us, guide us and bless us. If we face life’s madness and people’s cruelties without Him and His word we have no foundation for happiness, now or in eternity. However st the end of the book promise’s ‘Behold, I am coming soon! Blessed (happy) is he who keeps the words of the prophecy in this book.’ (Revelation 22:7)



Sunday, January 26, 2014

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!

Sunday, October 27, 2013

Spiritual obesity

Never go shopping on an empty stomach. That is what they say when you go to the Supermarket. It makes you buy what isn't really required. However that principle doesn't apply when you come into the presence of the Lord. There should be an unquenchable hunger within. Why? Jesus said it was the source of being happy (Matt.5:6.Ps.42:1.)Notice however what would produce such happiness, righteousness! If you accept the statement of Jesus would you say that many of the Disciples of Jesus are happy and satisfied?

Most people imagine that happiness requires lots and lots of things before and more than righteousness. When you read the warnings the Lord gave to Israel through Moses it is evident He saw materialism as a great danger. Read Deuteronomy 8:11-14,17. To conquer the promised land had its dangers and battles. The greatest and most long lasting threat was not combat but Mammon. The trappings of wealth would make them self satisfied, spiritually lazy and obese. Such attitudes makes a person, family, community or nation forget God and what He has done and promised.


Spiritual Obesity is a western world curse, especially within a Church scene. Forty years after the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ Jesus certain facets of the Church were 'fat, self satisfied and content in their materialism. It is highlighted by the church of Laodicea. (Revelation 3:14-18) Result...pride, forgetfulness, arrogance etc. Today the Church is obese in materialism; prosperity doctrine, emotionalism, self achievement (all for God’s benefit mind you --- ha!) Affluence has robbed the church of its health and stamina in righteousness, justice, stewardship and mission. It is unrighteous I the Lord's eyes.
Why?
No hunger for God. Filled with ‘junk food.’ How would you define 'junk food?' Doing good, holding interesting activities and building impressive buildings or projects to their own ego rather than doing the Lord's will or worship. Jesus has a 'Cafe' where He offers spiritually and morally healthy and nourishing food. There is a high admittance cost for Jesus said 'If anyone comes after me they must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow.' Matthew 16:24.


There’s a spiritual ‘dietary’ battle going on. The World wants to stuff us with things that dull our hunger senses. God endeavours to change our ‘eating’ habits. We should pray that God would make us hungry. When that happens we are on the verge of some new taste sensations. As the Bible puts it, Taste and see that the Lord is gracious. 1 Peter 2:3 Ps.34:8.119:103
Some hesitate to taste new foods. Others have few inhibitions. What then are the gourmet dishes of Heaven?
Bread...John 6:35.(Jesus)
Water...John 4:14 (Holy Spirit).
Milk...1 Peter 2:2.
Meat...Heb.5:12-14. Honey...Ps.19:9-11 . 119:103.(Word)

How and where do we find the Jesus ‘Café!'
His invitation comes wrapped in the good news of the cross. Unattractive on the outside it may seem but when you embrace the invitation it takes you into communion with God and an ever increasing hunger for Him. Paul in Phil. 3:8. says it all, I want to know Him!. How can I hunger for God? I personally doubt the long term success of well presented, well prepared programs aimed at motivating an obese church. Only when we feel the prodigal’s hunger pangs that humble us and drive us back to the Father will we become a trim, slim, health and attractive disciple and church.

Don’t confuse hunger for activity for God. Nor is it religious observances.
Hunger is when you desire, in whatever circumstance surrounds you, is... “Father, be glorified in and through me.”
When you fail your prayer is “Father forgive me and make me a testimony of your grace.”
When faced with all the latest philosophies about life your prayer is... “Father teach me Your Word.”

I find it interesting that many church growth proponents look to the American scene for inspiration. Why beats me. It is obese in materials, resources, concessions and ego. I believe the place to look is the suffering Church in Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Their situation is grim under persecution and lack yet they remain faithful to the Lord Jesus Christ. The Church is hungry and poor but its heart is satisfied with the grace and power of the Lord Jesus. Such a fellowship of Faith is well pleasing to the Lord and an offence to the World. May its influence increase!

Ray (the hungry) Hawkins