Beating ourselves up

Why do we punish ourselves for old regrets long after we believe God has forgiven us? The question stuck in my mind after a conversation with someone I’ll call TC.

TC described himself as being in recovery for multiple addictions. A couple of times he said, “My problem was forgiving myself. I found it a lot easier to believe God had forgiven me than to forgive myself for what I’d done.”

In some ways I knew what TC was talking about. Long after believing God had forgiven me, I have silently beaten myself up for doing things that embarrassed me and hurt others.

Is it up to us to forgive ourselves? Although I was willing to beat myself up for past wrongs, offering mercy to me seemed like playing God.

What surprised me is that TC helped me see that, without realising it, I was doing the very thing I thought I was trying to avoid. He said, “I have a friend who got on my case for acting like I was greater than God. This friend kept saying, ‘Who do you think you are, God Almighty? God forgives you.’”

The good natured prodding TC took from his friend helped me. Later, I remembered words of the apostle John, who wrote: “Our actions will show that we belong to the truth, so we will be confident when we stand before God. Even if we feel guilty, God is greater than our feelings, and He knows everything” (1 John 3:19-20).

Why is it important to remember that God is greater than our hearts? John reminded us that when the sin we have already confessed continues to torment us, God sees more clearly than we do. He sees everything. He sees the wrong and the regret we have acknowledged. He sees the price He has paid to release us from that sin. He sees the trust we have put in His Son. He sees the good work He has started in our hearts (Philippians 1:6).

God also sees the people around us who are negatively affected as long as we continue to condemn ourselves. He knows that we will never be good at loving others as long as we refuse to let the love and forgiveness of God flush the guilt and shame out of our lives.

Every day of self-absorbed self-condemnation is a day spent robbing ourselves of the joy of a grateful heart. By contrast, every day lived in the freedom of forgiveness is a day spent praising God. Every hour lived in gratitude for forgiveness is a day spent loving others on God’s behalf.

Father in heaven, in our thoughtful moments we know You are greater than our hearts. You see infinitely more than we do. Please help us to use that freedom to love others as You have first loved us. – Mart De Haan

Adopted from the Been Thinking About article Beating Ourselves Up © 2011 RBC Ministries. Read more helpful articles like this one on the Web at beenthinking.org 

KILLED WITH KISSES

READ: Matthew 27:3-10

Jesus said to him, “Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?” – Luke 22:48

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 Chronicles 26-29

If Judas the betrayer had truly repented, would Jesus have accepted him? I believe so. No one can out-sin the grace of God. Judas may have saddened our Lord more by hanging himself than by betraying Him. I think his act of despair meant that he didn’t believe our Lord would forgive Him.

In the novel The Flight Of The Shadow, author George MacDonald tells a story of a young girl, Belorba Whichcote, who lived with her uncle. One morning she watched him take a piece of jewellery out of a cabinet drawer, hold it up briefly to the light, and then quickly put it back.

After her uncle left the house for the day, Belorba looked in the drawer without his permission. Guilt immediately flooded her heart, and she nervously waited for his return. When he came back that evening, she fell at his feet, confessed what she had done and how awful she felt. Then she sobbed, “Please, Uncle, will you kill me?”

“Yes, yes,” her uncle replied. “I will kill you, my darling! This way! This way!” Then, stretching out his arms, he drew her in and covered her face with kisses.

What a marvellous picture of our Lord’s love for the sinner who comes humbly before Him! How He longs to “kill us” with kisses! – David Roper

The pain of facing up to truth

And saying “I am wrong”

Is soothed by Christ’s redeeming love,

Which fills the heart with song. – D. De Haan

Sin brings fear; confession brings freedom.

May 2012

HE'S WAITING

TWO DEAD SPARROWS

READ: Galatians 5:13-26

If you bite and devour one another, beware lest you be consumed by one another! – Galatians 5:15

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 Chronicles 23-25

I was cruising along on the highway at about 60 miles an hour when up ahead I saw two sparrows in a fierce battle at the side of the road. With feathers flying, they attacked each other with great fury.

As my car approached, they became locked in combat. Together they rose in the air and fluttered into the path of the car. With a violent thud they smashed against the windshield. They were so preoccupied with their battle that they were blind to more serious dangers. Their quarrel cost them their lives.

How often we act like those two sparrows! We fail to realize that in a fight no one ever wins. Both are losers. We carry grudges, and our irritations get blown out of proportion. I don’t know what those sparrows were fighting over, but it wasn’t worth dying for. Neither are our quarrels.

Learn a lesson from the sparrows. Forget your grievances, be ready to forgive, and admit it when you’re wrong. Ask God’s Spirit to produce in you “love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” (vv. 22-23).

When you feel like fighting, remember those two dead sparrows by the roadside! – M. R. De Haan, MD

Spirit of God, please change my heart,

And give me a new desire;

I want to be a man of peace,

Not controlled by anger’s fire. – K. De Haan

When you lash out at others, you’re sure to hurt yourself.

PERSONAL GOSPEL

TO BE SURE

READ: 1 John 5:1-13

These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life. – 1 John 5:13

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 Chronicles 20-22

Evangelist Dwight L. Moody (1837-1899) said, “I believe hundreds of Christians are being deceived by Satan now on this point: They don’t have the assurance of salvation just because they are not willing to take God at His Word!”

John 5:24 says the person who believes on the Son “has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment.” Our assurance, then, is not based primarily on how we feel but on what God says. And when we take God at His Word, the feeling often follows.

This is illustrated in the story of a man who was carrying a sack of potatoes on his back. A sceptic asked him, “How do you know you are saved?” The man let the potatoes fall and replied, “How do I know I have dropped the bag? I didn’t see it fall.” “No,” replied the sceptic, “but you can tell, I suppose, by the lessening of the weight.” “Exactly,” said the Christian. “That’s how I know I’m saved too. I have lost my load of sin, and have found peace in my Lord and Saviour.”

If you will first trust in Christ and believe His Word, your burden of guilt and doubt will fall. Then and only then will you feel the difference. Don’t make the mistake of trying to get the feeling before you do the believing. – Henry Bosch

I do not rest on shifting sand,

Or fear the storm that rages;

For calm and sure, I stand secure

Upon the Rock of Ages. – Anon.

Because God’s Word is trustworthy, your salvation is secure.

THE LAMB IS MY SHEPHERD

DON’T GET STUNG!

READ: Exodus 23:20-33

As righteousness leads to life, so he who pursues evil pursues it to his own death. – Proverbs 11:19

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 Chronicles 17-19

About 25 feet up in the maple tree behind my house hung a grey, cone-shaped object about 10 inches long. I decided to get closer to find out what it was.

Armed with a long fishing pole and standing on top of a barrel, I steered the end of the pole into the opening at the bottom of the object. And then it happened! Like a streak of lightning, down they came, first one, then another! I sprawled on the ground. Soon both eyes were swollen shut and I had large bumps on my forehead. I had been attacked by white-faced hornets. That was the last time I bothered them!

So it is with sin. The way to keep from being stung is to stay far from it. As Israel prepared to enter the Promised Land, the Lord said He would send “hornets” to drive out their enemies (Ex. 23:28). But God also warned Israel not to turn from Him (v. 33). As the people found out, disobedience would bring down the Lord’s stinging judgment on them instead of on their enemies (32:7-10).

So don’t try to see how close you can get to sin without getting into trouble – rather, see how far you can stay away. Listen to the warnings of God’s Word, and don’t forget the pain of past mistakes. Learn from them. If you do, you’ll avoid being stung again! – M. R. De Haan, MD

Today avoid sin’s tempting lures

And evil thoughts subdue,

Or worldly things may take control

And someday master you! – Bosch

When you flee temptation, be sure you don’t leave a forwarding address.

THE GREATEST GIFT

THE GREATEST

READ: John 3:16-21

God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son. – John 3:16

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 Chronicles 14-16

Someone sent me an outline of John 3:16, a verse that is often referred to as “God’s miniature Bible.” Here it is:

God – the greatest lover

So loved – the greatest degree

The world – the greatest company

That He gave – the greatest act

His only begotten Son – the greatest gift

That whoever believes – the greatest simplicity

In Him – the greatest person

Should not perish – the greatest promise

But – the greatest difference

Have – the greatest certainty

Everlasting life – the greatest possession

I heard about a young girl whose mother was reading to her the third chapter of John. Pausing after verse 16, the mother exclaimed, “Don’t you think that verse is amazing, dear?” The child thought and then said, “No.” The mother thought the youngster must have misunderstood, so she repeated the question. But again the girl shook her head, saying, “No. It would be amazing if it were anyone else, Mother. But it’s really just like God!” Indeed, the child with her simple faith had understood that the great gift of salvation could naturally be expected from a great God.

With reverent adoration, let us recognize that God, His love, and His eternal gift are naturally “the greatest.” – Henry Bosch

God loved the world of sinners, lost

And ruined by the fall;

Salvation, full, at highest cost,

He offers free to all. – Stockton

Salvation is a gift to be received, not a goal to be achieved.

GOD'S REFRESHING WORD

ARE YOU A WORRYWART?

READ: Matthew 6:25-34

Do not worry about tomorrow…. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. – Matthew 6:34

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 Chronicles 10-13

Worry is sin. It is caused by lack of faith, a failure to believe God’s Word. Yet it is a sin that many Christians find hard to overcome.

Stop and think of the things you have worried about. How many actually happened? And how many of the things that did happen had never entered your mind? We tend to be filled with anxiety over what might happen but never does.

I once read about a paratrooper in the US Army who had made more than 50 successful parachute jumps without a single serious injury. But the first day back home after being discharged, he stumbled over a rug, fell against a table, and broke four of his ribs! He had worried a great deal about his parachute jumps, but then something happened he had never worried about: He tripped over a rug.

So why worry? Jesus said that it’s futile to fret, for worrying can’t change anything (Matt. 6:27). We need to remember that our heavenly Father knows all about our situation and watches over us (vv. 28-34). We can be sure that He will take care of our needs no matter what tomorrow brings. It’s better, therefore, to be wise and trust the Lord.

Remember, worry never solved a single problem! So don’t be a worrywart! – M. R. De Haan, MD

When you feel the tension mounting,

And across the busy day

Only gloomy clouds are drifting,

As you start to worry – pray! – Anon.

Worry doesn’t improve the future, it only ruins the present.

RESPECT

LIVING OR JUST ALIVE?

READ: Ecclesiastes 12

Remember now your Creator in the days of your youth. – Ecclesiastes 12:1

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 Chronicles 7-9

What matters is not how long you live, but how well you live. Some people live for 85 years and do very little. Others live only a relatively few years, but they fill that time with service to God and others, and their influence lives on.

Many people are concerned only with prolonging their stay here on this earth, and so they strive to add years to their lives. Every year we spend billions of dollars for medicines, vitamins, and special diets to stay alive. And yet we forget that it is not the quantity of life but the quality of life and what we accomplish for the Lord that makes life meaningful. Only when we devote our lives to our Creator (Eccl. 12:1, 13-14) do our days on earth count for eternity.

Today, let’s seek to fill the hours with service, worship, and work for the Master. If this is our last day (and who knows, it may be), rather than wasting it in dreaming of a long life, let it be occupied with producing abundant fruit and being a blessing. Instead of just drifting aimlessly through our allotted hours and days, let us truly live.

Yes, the only life that’s worthwhile (be it long or short) is the one spent in service for the Lord and in bringing blessing to others. – M. R. De Haan, MD

Take my life and let it be

Consecrated, Lord, to Thee;

Take my moments and my days,

Let them flow in ceaseless praise! – Havergal

It is better to add life to your years than to add years to your life.

IT'S NOT A GAME

TANTALIZED SINNERS

READ: Ecclesiastes 2:1-11

I did not withhold my heart from any pleasure…. All was vanity and grasping for the wind. – Ecclesiastes 2:10-11

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 Chronicles 4-6

In Greek mythology, King Tantalus offended the gods and was punished in the underworld. He was placed in a lake in water up to his chin, but whenever he attempted to satisfy his burning thirst the water receded. Over his head were branches laden with choice fruit, but when he tried to satisfy his hunger they eluded his grasping hands.

Tantalus, therefore, became the symbol of utter frustration. Even today his name is remembered in the English word tantalize.

Outside of a relationship with God, many things in life are tantalizing but unrewarding. The author of Ecclesiastes pursued happiness through knowledge, pleasure, riches, and work. Nothing satisfied the hunger in his soul. So he wrote, “Vanity of vanities, all is vanity” (1:2). It was only when he focused on knowing and pleasing God (12:13-14) that he found life’s true purpose.

If you are among those who have been tantalized by what you thought would bring you happiness and peace, and you feel frustrated and worn out, come to Jesus. He promised, “I will give you rest” (Matt. 11:28). You will discover with joy that He has everything you’ve ever hoped for – and much more. – Henry Bosch

If we commit ourselves to Christ

And follow in His way,

He’ll give us life that satisfies

With purpose for each day. – Sper

Only Jesus, the Living Water, can satisfy the thirsty soul.

A SAILING SHIP

FINGER-POINTING

READ: Matthew 18:15-20

Whoever spreads slander is a fool … but he who restrains his lips is wise. – Proverbs 10:18-19

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 Chronicles 1-3

You can’t point your finger at someone without pointing at yourself. Try it right now. Extend your index finger and thumb in a pointing position away from you, and then notice in which direction the other three fingers are pointing. They point directly back at you.

Remember that the next time you point out the faults of someone else. Instead of jumping to conclusions, we should give the person the benefit of the doubt and reserve our judgment until all the facts can be known.

Under the Mosaic Law, no charges could be brought against anyone unless there were two or three witnesses (Deut. 19:15). Jesus echoed that standard when He taught how to deal with a Christian who sins against you (Matt. 18:16).

So if someone has wronged you, first go to the person alone to seek reconciliation (v. 15) instead of badmouthing him before others. If the person refuses to admit his wrong and turn from it, then involve others to resolve the situation (vv. 16-17). And if someone passes along a slanderous comment to you, refuse to pass it further. Instead, encourage the talebearer to follow these biblical steps.

God’s children are to be channels of love and truth, not maliciousness and lies. – M. R. De Haan, MD

Your Word instructs us not to judge;

So, Lord, we humbly pray,

Restrain our lips when we would speak

Those things we should not say. – D. De Haan

Slander seeks to destroy, but rebuke seeks to restore.

DRIVEN BY GRATITUDE

SINGING LIARS

READ: Proverbs 12:13-22

Deliver my soul, O LORD, from lying lips and from a deceitful tongue. – Psalm 120:2

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 1 Chronicles 27-29

There are many ways of telling a lie. Some people who pride themselves on never speaking a falsehood would be amazed if they would begin to recount the number of lies they sing each Sunday in church.

Many years ago I read an article by an unknown author who wrote, “We sing ‘Sweet Hour Of Prayer’ and then content ourselves with only 10 to 15 minutes of intercession each day. We sing ‘Onward Christian Soldiers’ but wait to be dragged and drafted into God’s service. We join in the song ‘O For A Thousand Tongues To Sing’ and then do not use the one tongue we have for His glory.

“We sing ‘There Shall Be Showers Of Blessing’ very enthusiastically in dry and sunny weather, but when the Lord sends a few literal showers we find it impossible to go to church because it’s raining. We sing ‘Blest Be The Tie That Binds’ and then let the least little offense sever that precious tie. We sing ‘Serve The Lord With Gladness’ and then complain constantly about all that we have to do.”

Remember, lies are lies whether we speak them or sing them. Next time you open the hymnbook, be sure you mean the words that come out of your mouth.

Don’t be a singing liar! – Henry Bosch

Tell the truth and tell it right,

A lie will never do;

The Bible says that God is truth –

He wants the truth from you. – Branon

After all is said and done, more is said than done.

HAPPY EARTH DAY

GREAT PREACHERS

READ: 1 Peter 1:1-9

The testing of your faith produces patience. – James 1:3

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 1 Chronicles 24-26

The greatest sermons I have ever heard were not preached from pulpits but from sickbeds. The deepest truths of God’s Word have often been taught by those humble souls who have gone through the seminary of affliction.

The most cheerful people I have met, with few exceptions, have been those who’ve had the least sunshine and the most pain and suffering in their lives. The most grateful people I have ever known were not those who had travelled a pathway of roses all their lives, but those who were confined to their homes, some to their beds, and had learned to depend on God.

The gripers, on the other hand, are usually those who have the least to complain about. The men and women who are the most cheerful and the most grateful for the blessings of Almighty God are often those who have gone through the greatest trials.

The Bible tells us that if we respond properly to the trials of life, we will develop patience and godly maturity (Rom. 5:3-5; James 1:3-4). We must keep in mind that our present sufferings are “but for a moment” and that they are being used by God for our eternal good (2 Cor. 4:17-18).

So take heart, suffering one. Someday you too will realize that it was worth it all (1 Peter 1:7). – M. R. De Haan, MD

It will be worth it all when we see Jesus,

Life’s trials will seem so small when we see Christ;

One glimpse of His dear face all sorrow will erase,

So bravely run the race till we see Christ. – Rusthoi

Some of life’s greatest lessons are learned in the school of affliction.

RETURN ON INVESTMENT

DON’T KILL TIME!

READ: Ephesians 5:1-17

Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. – Colossians 4:5

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 1 Chronicles 20-23

Author and lecturer John Erskine (1879-1951) declared that he learned the most valuable lesson of his life when he was 14 years old. His piano teacher asked him how much he practiced. He replied that he usually sat at the instrument for an hour or more at a time.

“Don’t do that,” warned the teacher. “When you grow up, time won’t come to you in long stretches like that. Practice in minutes wherever you can find them – 5 or 10 before school, a few after lunch. Sandwich them in between chores. Spread the practice throughout the day, and music will become a part of your life.”

Erskine stated later that by following this advice he was able to live a fulfilled life as a creative writer, in addition to his regular duties as an instructor. He wrote nearly all of Helen of Troy, his most famous work, on streetcars while commuting between his home and the university.

How can you make good use of your spare moments? Consider carrying a Bible or a devotional booklet with you. Use the time to read, or to pray, or to write a note of encouragement or admonition to some needy soul.

Beware of wasting the present. Instead of killing time, redeem your spare moments today. – Henry Bosch

Redeem the time! God only knows

How soon our little life may close,

With all its pleasures and its woes,

Redeem the time! – Anon.

Wasting the gift of time insults the giver of time.

THE ENDURING WORD

WHO IS TO BLAME?

READ: Genesis 43:1-10

If I do not bring him back to you and set him before you, then let me bear the blame forever. – Genesis 43:9

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 1 Chronicles 17-19

Judah was willing to assume the responsibility for bringing his brother Benjamin back from Egypt (Gen. 43:9). If anything happened to him, Judah would take the blame. This is one of the rarest traits in human nature, for we usually seek to put the blame on someone else.

One evening there was collusion on the road in front of my house. I went out and found a lively argument about who was at fault. One driver yelled, “You were on the wrong side and going too fast!” The other person replied, “No, you are to blame. You failed to signal your turn, and you had your bright lights on!” After 30 minutes the police came and the argument was repeated.

One of the hardest things to learn is to take the blame, to say, “I was wrong.” Why is this, anyway? It is not always deliberate dishonesty. The real reason is simply that we look at it only from our own perspective. If we could calmly look at it from the other person’s point of view, it might appear entirely different.

There are two sides to everything. You can never see both sides until you stop accusing and humbly listen to the other person instead. To solve a conflict, you need to be willing to take the blame. – M. R. De Haan, MD

THINKING IT OVER

Why is it so hard to see another person’s point of view? When is it appropriate to share the blame? What can I do if the other person won’t admit any guilt?

To be right, be willing to admit you are wrong.

PRETEND

LIGHT BEYOND THE VALLEY

READ: 2 Corinthians 5:1-8

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me. – Psalm 23:4

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 1 Chronicles 14-16

Death comes eventually to us all. Yet, for the Christian, the dark door of death is to be viewed as only a shadow. As frightening as death may appear, on the other side is the bright and shining gate that leads to life – eternity with Jesus!

Author William H. Ridgeway recalls that when he was a boy he and his friends would pick berries. After filling their baskets, they would wait beside a nearby railroad track. As the sun was sinking in the west, a train would come by and “run over them.” Of course the iron monster with its thundering noise and screaming whistle didn’t actually run over them at all. It was only the shadow that passed over them.

There they sat, knowing there was no danger but shivering in anticipation at the approaching locomotive and boxcars. As the train swept by them, they were in its shadow for just a few moments and then it was gone. The setting sun bathed them in a golden glow as they walked to the inviting warmth of home. What a wonderful illustration of what it means for the Christian to “walk through the valley of the shadow of death” (Ps. 23:4).

We need not fear the chilling shadow of death – for the Lord is with us (v. 4), and we have a home with Him waiting for us just beyond (2 Cor. 5:1-8). – Henry Bosch

Say not it’s a dreadful journey

When the Saviour leads the way;

It’s but passing through the shadows

To the land of endless day! – Bosch

For the Christian, death is the last shadow before heaven’s dawn.

FORGIVEN!

HYPOCRITES

READ: Matthew 23:13-15

You shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets. – Matthew 6:5

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 1 Chronicles 10-13

A hypocrite is a pretender. He is a person who does not act his real self but disguises himself to be another. God hates hypocrisy but loves sinners. In all the records of the Gospels, Jesus spoke to sinners with sympathy, kindness, and forgiveness. But to the hypocritical religious leaders, He used the strongest possible language of condemnation. He called them blind guides, whitewashed tombs, and vipers (Matt. 23:24, 27, 33).

The biggest hypocrite of all, however, is the man or woman who refuses to come to Christ because there are so many hypocrites in the church. Such a person is being inconsistent. Business is full of hypocrites, but that does not stop him from doing business. Society is full of them, but he does not decide to become a hermit. Hell is full of hypocrites, so if a person doesn’t like hypocrites he had better make sure he’s not going there.

If your excuse for not bowing before Christ and accepting Him as your Saviour and Lord is that you don’t like hypocrites, will you let me show you the biggest hypocrite of all? I say this in love, dear friend. Look in the mirror. Stop pretending. If you can’t think of a better excuse, you have no excuse! – M. R. De Haan, MD

One day before God’s judgment bar

All sham and pretense will take flight,

We’ll all be known for who we are –

There’ll be no hiding from His sight. – D. De Haan

There’s no bigger hypocrite than the person who pretends he doesn’t need Jesus.

IMPERFECT GIFTS

RIPPLES ON THE POND

READ: Colossians 3:1-8

Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. – Colossians 3:2

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 1 Chronicles 7-9

A young boy made a toy boat and then went to sail it on a pond. While he was playing with it along the water’s edge, the boat floated out beyond his reach. In his distress he asked an older boy to help him. Without saying a word, the older child picked up some stones and started to throw them toward the boat.

The little boy became upset, for he thought that the one he had turned to for help was being mean. Soon, though, he noticed that instead of hitting the boat, each stone was directed beyond it, making a small ripple that moved the vessel a little nearer to the shore. Every throw of the stone was planned, and at last the treasured toy was brought back to his waiting hands.

Sometimes it seems as if God allows circumstances into our lives that are harming us and are without sense or plan. We may be sure, though, that these waves of trial are intended to bring us nearer to Himself, to encourage us to set our minds “on things above, not on things on the earth” (Col. 3:2). Because we are prone to drift away from Him, the Lord must discipline us to get us back on the right course (Heb. 12:9-11).

How are you responding to life’s difficulties? They are God’s loving way of drawing you closer to Him. – Henry Bosch

Lightly hold earth’s joys so transient,

Lightly hold to things of clay,

Grasp perfections everlasting,

Where Christ dwells in heaven’s day! – Bosch

God uses the waves of trial to draw us closer to Himself.

DEFINING MOMENT

REMEMBER!

READ: John 2:13-22

When He had risen from the dead, His disciples remembered … and they believed the Scripture. – John 2:22

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 1 Chronicles 4-6

The disciples remembered – and then they believed. After the death of Jesus on the cross and His resurrection, they recalled and finally understood Jesus’ words, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up” (John 2:19).

If our faith is to grow, we too need to remember the cross and the empty tomb. Jesus established a memorial of His death, a practice we call the Lord’s Supper, knowing that our faith and hope would be strengthened as we remember what He has done for us. He said, “Do this in remembrance of Me” (1 Cor. 11:24). Every time we drink of the cup and eat the bread, we remember what it cost Him to redeem us.

The true believer does not live in memories only, however, but with hope for the future. We are to partake of the cup and bread “till He comes” (v. 26). The One who died for us also rose from the grave. As we think of our loved ones who have died in the faith, we look beyond to the day when the graves will be opened and we will meet them again. We can be sure that because Jesus lives we too shall live.

We may shed tears today in memory of those who have died. But as we recall Christ’s death and resurrection, our faith and hope are renewed. Let’s remember! – M. R. De Haan, MD

We sorrow not as others do,

Whose hopes fade like the flowers;

There is a hope that’s born of God,

And such a hope is ours. – McNeil

In life and in death, Christ is our hope.

THE ALICE TAX

LIKE HIM

READ: Romans 8:28-39

Whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son. – Romans 8:29

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 1 Chronicles 1-3

God is not interested in just saving us from hell and taking us to heaven. He wants to conform us “to the image of His Son” (Rom. 8:29). Someone has said that the Father was so pleased with His Son that He has determined to fill all of heaven with others just like Him.

When Jesus returns, “we shall be like Him” (1 John 3:2), but the process of becoming like Him begins here and now. How does that happen? It is explained by the “all things” of “all things work together for good to those who love God” (Rom. 8:28). This includes testings and trials; denials and suffering. To become like Him, we must follow Him, and that is the path of sacrifice and trial (Heb. 2:10).

Following Jesus means we must be willing to go with Him to the Garden of Gethsemane and the hill of Calvary. We must be willing to endure suffering and rejection by those who reject Him (John 15:18-21). But following Him also leads us to the empty tomb and the place at the right hand of God. The apostle Paul said that those who follow Him will also share in His resurrection (Rom. 6:5). And “if we endure, we shall also reign with Him” (2 Tim. 2:12).

Yes, God uses “all things” to make us like Christ. – M. R. De Haan, MD

If you walk every day with the Saviour,

Use His Word as your unfailing guide,

Then you surely will grow to be like Him,

And with Him you’ll forever abide. – Hess

The road to Christlikeness will take you through the valley of suffering.

WHEN IN DOUBT

PEACE IN THE STORM

READ: Psalm 37:1-11

Commit your way to the LORD, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass. – Psalm 37:5

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 Kings 23-25

During a terrible storm on the ocean, a small passenger ship rolled precariously in the roaring tempest. The furniture and anything else that could move was tied down, and the passengers were confined to their bunks for their own safety. Many on board thought the vessel was doomed.

Finally, a passenger who was determined to find out if there was any hope for survival set out to see the one who was in command. Clinging to the walls and handrails, he made his way to the wave-lashed deck, up a ladder, and into the wheelhouse. He noticed that the ship was nearing land was between some jagged rocks. It became apparent that the captain was trying to reach the safety of a calm bay up ahead. Knowing he could not make himself heard above the roar of the wind and waves, the captain just turned wordlessly to the worried passenger and smiled. Reassured, the man returned to the others and said, “Don’t be afraid. All is well. I’ve seen the captain’s face, and he smiled!”

When we are battered by the storms of life, we may be tempted to give in to feelings of hopelessness. But if we look to our sovereign Captain and commit our way to Him (Ps. 37:5), we will find peace even in the midst of turmoil. We can trust Him to bring us through the storm. – Henry Bosch

God’s unseen presence comforts me,

I know He’s always near;

And when life’s storms besiege my soul,

He says, “My child, don’t fear.” – D. De Haan

God may calm the storm around you, but more often He’ll calm the storm within you.

CHEERING EACH OTHER ON

TALKING OR DOING?

READ: Acts 22:1-15

You will be His witness to all men of what you have seen and heard. – Acts 22:15

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 Kings 21-22

A talented young Christian artist painted a picture of a forlorn woman and child out in a storm. His portrayal moved his heart so deeply that he laid down his palette and brush, declaring, “I must go to the lost, instead of painting them.”

He soon began working in the city slums and studying for the ministry. That young British artist was Alfred Robert Tucker (1849-1914), who served as a missionary in Uganda and eastern Africa for 20 years.

All of us must get out of the rut of just talking about missions and witnessing, but doing nothing about it.

Pastor Horace Bushnell (1802-1876) wrote: “The following are excused from giving or going: Those who believe the world is not lost and does not need a Saviour. Those who wish the missionaries had never come to our ancestors, and that we ourselves were still heathens. Those who believe that it is ‘every man for himself’ in this world, and who, with Cain, ask, ‘Am I my brother’s keeper?’ Those who believe they are not accountable to God for the money entrusted to them. And those who are prepared to accept the final sentence, ‘Inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me’ (Matt. 25:45).”

What are you doing for Christ? – Henry Bosch

Help me to see the tragic plight

Of souls far off in sin;

Help me to love, to pray, and go

To bring the wandering in. – Harrison

When the Lord says go, how can we say no?

WHAT DID HE SAY?

DEWDROPS

READ: Hosea 14

I will be like the dew to Israel; he shall grow like the lily. – Hosea 14:5

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 Kings 18-20

It was a summer morning, and the first rays of sun were falling across my garden. The prior evening the leaves on the tender corn were drooping from intense heat and lack of rain. But in the morning the spikes were straight and fresh, and each leaf was adorned with sparkling drops of dew. During the night, the cooling air caused moisture to condense into dewdrops, refreshing the wilted vegetation.

This, according to the prophet Hosea, is a picture of what the Lord would do for His people. God said, “I will be like the dew to Israel” (Hos. 14:5).

When our spirits droop, when we are burdened by a load of cares, or when we are carrying the guilt of sin, the Lord offers His mercy and grace to be like refreshing dew to our souls.

Just as the dew appears in the quiet of the night to moisten the plants, so too the refreshing dew of God’s forgiveness, comfort, and strength comes in the quiet times of prayer and meditation on His Word.

Why the lives of so many Christians are faded, wilted, and powerless? In most cases, it is because they neglect spending time alone each day with God in prayer and in the study of His Word. Do you need the refreshment of God’s dewdrops? – M. R. De Haan, MD

Drink deep of God’s goodness, His faithfulness too,

Leave no room for doubting and fear;

His Word is the water of life pure and true,

Refreshing and cooling and clear. – Hess

For spiritual refreshment, drink from the fountain of God’s Word.

LISTEN TO HIS PROMPTINGS

HE CARES FOR HIS OWN

READ: Psalm 145:8-21

The LORD preserves all who love Him. – Psalm 145:20

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 Kings 15-17

A young girl traveling on a train for the first time heard that it would have to cross several rivers. She was troubled and fearful as she thought of the water. But each time the train came near to a river, a bridge was always there to provide a safe way across.

After passing safely over several rivers and streams, the girl settled back in her seat with a sigh of relief. Then she turned to her mother and said, “I’m not worried anymore. Somebody has put bridges for us all the way!”

When we come to the rivers of trial and the streams of sorrow, we too will find that God in His grace “has put bridges for us all the way.” So we need not fall into hopelessness. In delightful though often untraceable ways, He will provide for us and carry us through the difficulties to the other side. Even though we may not understand how He will meet our needs, we can be sure that He will provide a way.

Those who have given their situations over to God can exclaim with the psalmist, “The LORD is righteous in all His ways, gracious in all His works…. The LORD preserves all who love Him” (Ps. 145:17, 20).

Instead of worrying about what’s ahead, we can trust the Lord to be there to care for us. – Henry Bosch

There’s so much now I cannot see,

My eyesight’s far too dim;

But come what may, I’ll simply trust

And leave it all to Him. – Overton

Where God guides, He provides.

THE CHALLENGE OF FORGIVENESS

UNSUNG HEROES

READ: 1 Samuel 30:11-18

To whom do you belong, and where are you from? – 1 Samuel 30:13

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 Kings 11-14

The Bible contains many incidents of helpfulness by people whose names are not given. In 1 Samuel 30 we read that David’s soldiers found a young man who had been left behind by a retreating enemy army. The Egyptian slave is not named, but he provided key information that helped David to rescue his family.

I also think of the young boy whose lunch of bread and fish was multiplied by Jesus to feed thousands (John 6:9), the owners of the colt on which Jesus rode into Jerusalem (Luke 19:33), and the owner of the house in which Jesus and His disciples ate the last Passover (22:11). Then there was the boy who saved Paul’s life (Acts 23:16-22).

In our world today, there are many people who receive no recognition, who never get their names published nor hear the applause of others. Many faithfully pray, sacrificially give, patiently suffer for Christ. Countless mothers quietly care for their families, and men and women courageously witness to co-workers and neighbours. They may be unnamed and unpraised here and now – but in heaven the last shall be first (Matt. 19:30).

Be patient, dear unnoticed child of God. Your reward is coming! – M. R. De Haan, MD

Press on in your service for Jesus,

Spurred on by your love for the Lord;

He promised that if you are faithful,

One day you’ll receive your reward. – Fasick

It is better to be faithful than famous.

THE OYSTER MAN

A Divine Revelation of Heaven and Hell by Mary K Baxter

SUNRISE HOPE

READ: 1 Cor. 15:20-28

Very early in the morning, on the first day of the week, they came to the tomb when the sun had risen. – Mark 16:2

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 Kings 7-10

Think of what it would be like if we went to bed some night knowing that the sun would not raise again the next morning. Think of the coldness, the unending darkness, and the inescapable fingers of death that would gradually move across the earth. Plants would wither, flowers would wilt, trees would die, and all of life would perish for lack of sunlight.

But praises God, the sun does rise every day. It’s warm, life-giving light floods the earth. The “death” of a sunset each day is followed by the “resurrection” of a sunrise the next day – and our hope is renewed. Every morning the rays of the sun remind us that the long night of sin and darkness will give way to eternal day in heaven.

Even more sure than the rising of the morning sun is the certainty of our resurrection in Jesus Christ. The dark night of death came upon Him, and His lifeless body was laid in the tomb. But He arose! And in His resurrection is the promise of our own resurrection to life. The apostle Paul declared, “Even so in Christ all shall be made alive” (1 Cor. 15:22).

The next time you see the sun rise and watch its rays brighten the morning sky, let hope fill your heart. It is a reminder of your own sure resurrection! – Dave Egner

Rejoice in glorious hope!

Our Lord the Judge shall come

And take His servants up

To their eternal home. - Wesley

Christ’s resurrection is the guarantee of our own.

INTEGRITY - IS IT POSSIBLE?

THE CROSS

READ: Colossians 1:9-23

God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. – Galatians 6:14

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 Kings 4-6

Centuries before Jesus was born, the cross had been used as an instrument of torture and death. In 519 BC, for example, King Darius I of Persia crucified 3,000 political enemies in Babylon. This method of execution was later adopted by the Romans for noncitizens and slaves.

When Jesus Christ bore our sins at Calvary (1 Peter 2:24), the cross took on a new significance. There the Saviour, “through the blood of His cross,” made it possible for us to escape judgment and be reconciled to God (Col. 1:20-21).

The apostle Paul understood the significance of the cross. He had done many things in which he might have found personal pride (2 Cor. 11:16-12:13). But in his letter to the Galatians he wrote, “God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ” (6:14). As we understand what Jesus did for us on the cross, we too will be humbled. Our feeble efforts are nothing; His work is everything!

The resurrected Saviour invites all men and women to come humbly in faith to Him. By believing that He died in our place on the cross, we receive full forgiveness.

No wonder the hymn-writer Horatius Bonar exclaimed, “Hallelujah for the cross!” – Henry Bosch

So round the cross we sing

Of Christ our offering,

Of Christ our living King,

Hallelujah for the cross! – Bonar

The cross of Christ is the bridge between God and man.