All our hope rests on the shoulders of who Jesus Christ is. If Jesus Christ is not who He claimed to be, then our entire religion is pointless. This stance might sounds somewhat severe, but it is Jesus Christ who is the Rock on which we stand, and He is the very foundation of our faith. If we don't have Him, we don't have our foundation. As C.S.Lewis is often quoted as saying, "Either this man was, and is the Son of God, or else a madman or something worse."
Thankfully, Jesus is exactly who He claimed to be. We have confidence when we approach the throne of God, because we know, literally, who we are talking to. We are not blindly hoping or trusting in some random guy who died two thousand years ago. We put our trust in Jesus because we dwell in His presence, even to this day.
Matthew 18:20 and Matthew 28:20 are just two examples of Christ's omnipresence. The former passage shows that Christ meets with every group that gathers in His name, while the latter passage expresses that Christ always be with us. As William Plumer states about Matthew 18:20, "Christ could not thus meet all the little groups of his worshippers in all parts of the world, unless he were omnipresent.... If this promise conveys any natural and obvious sense, it is on that, beyond doubt, implies the omnipresence- and therefore divinity, of Jesus Christ."
Even to this day, Christ continues to meet with His followers. He assures us that, whenever there are two or three gathered together in the name of Christ, Jesus Christ is there with them.
Living Life
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Friday, August 26, 2011
In the Presence of God's Beauty
Beauty is something that is fleeting. Most people are neither born incredibly attractive nor born incredibly ugly. Most people are just average looking. We can undergo various medical and cosmetic procedures that will make us look more physically attractive. But as the saying goes, beauty is only skin deep. Proverbs 31:30 states, "Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised." God encourages us to look at the beauty of the heart, rather than simply focusing on outward beauty.
Although we should not be expressly focusing on our own outward beauty, God did design us to appreciate beauty in the many forms it takes. Some see beauty in majestic mountains, while others find beauty in paintings, photography, dance, or music.
Every portrait of beauty that we see here on earth is just a glimpse of the beauty possessed by God. We dwell in the constant presence of God's beauty, even here on earth. God is beautiful, and our beautiful God dwells is us in the form of the Holy Spirit. So, through Christ, we are made beautiful. J.R. Miller writes: "One other feature of the beauty of the Lord...is moral purity...That the beauty of the Lord our God may be on us, that the winning charm of God's loveliness may shine in the feature of our lives which men can see- we must first have the divine beauty within us. A holy heart will in time transfigure all the life. And the only way to have a holy heart-is to have Christ within!"
Because God dwells with us, because His presence is with us even now, He makes us beautiful before Him. We are beautiful because Christ who lives in us is beautiful.
Living Life
Although we should not be expressly focusing on our own outward beauty, God did design us to appreciate beauty in the many forms it takes. Some see beauty in majestic mountains, while others find beauty in paintings, photography, dance, or music.
Every portrait of beauty that we see here on earth is just a glimpse of the beauty possessed by God. We dwell in the constant presence of God's beauty, even here on earth. God is beautiful, and our beautiful God dwells is us in the form of the Holy Spirit. So, through Christ, we are made beautiful. J.R. Miller writes: "One other feature of the beauty of the Lord...is moral purity...That the beauty of the Lord our God may be on us, that the winning charm of God's loveliness may shine in the feature of our lives which men can see- we must first have the divine beauty within us. A holy heart will in time transfigure all the life. And the only way to have a holy heart-is to have Christ within!"
Because God dwells with us, because His presence is with us even now, He makes us beautiful before Him. We are beautiful because Christ who lives in us is beautiful.
Living Life
Thursday, August 25, 2011
50+ reasons for a girl to choose a dog... and not a man
A dog has long been a man's best friend. Few women have a problem with that. But when The Field - the magazine devoted to the hunting, shooting, fishing fraternity - suggested 50 reasons why dogs are better than women, it started the paw wars.
Spots are an attractive feature on a dog.
A dog is better protection from intruders.
Dogs enjoy ball games. But they don't spend six hours on the phone trying o get tickets for France 98.
Dogs greet each other by sniffing bottoms. Men are far less polite.
Puppy love doesn't wear off so quickly with a dog.
You can be prosecuted for neglecting a dog.
Dogs can find their way back home - even after a really heavy night out.
Dogs can be trained not to lie on the bed. Men always lie in bed.
A dog can moult without becoming obsessed about premature baldness.
Dogs can be taught the meaning of the word "NO!"
A dog is far less irritation to have in the back seat of a car...
...and will be less likely to show its rear end to the people in the vehicle behind for a laugh.
Elizabeth Hurley has a faithful dog whom she loves dearly.
If a dog says sausages, that's clever. If a man says sausages, that's just greedy.
Dogs will wait patiently outside clothes shops...
...and not criticize your purchases afterwards.
A dog will fetch the morning paper for you.
A dog will trot faithfully round at your heel.
Dogs don't break wind in public and blame it on the man.
In the canine world, boxers are quite intelligent.
If a dog gets ill, it won't take eighteen Panadols in order to avoid having to go to the vet.
You can also ask the vet to perform the snip, even if the dog objects.
Small, ginger-haired dogs can be quite appealing. As for men? Two words. Robin Cook.
You can find a nice dog by advertising on a card in a shop window, or in the classified section of the local paper.
A woman can live with more than one dog, without rumours starting.
When dogs beg, it's cute. When men beg it's pathetic.
Dogs sometimes dig the garden.
A dog can go out fox-hunting without being incredibly stuck up and pompous.
Dogs don't necessarily prefer blondes.
Dogs won't get embarrassed if you call them by a pet name when their friends are around.
Dogs travel more cheaply on the bus.
Dogs whine less.
Some dogs can be quite talented at singing.
Men lost the World Cup. A dog found it.
Dogs are less reliant on tinned food...
...but after a few cans, a dog will still be able to stand up.
And there are some things even a dog won't eat - like the remains of a three-day-old King Prawn vindaloo that they found on the floor behind the sofa.
You can leave a dog alone in your house without worrying so much about what it'll break.
A dog gets a new coat every winter.
Dogs are not so careless about leaving puddles on the bathroom floor.
A dog is less likely to leave a filthy, stinking mess for you to clear up.
For a dog, a wet nose is a sign of GOOD health.
Men are even less useful for testing cosmetics on.
Dogs don't wolf-whistle.
There are still thousands of totally undomesticated dogs in Australia; but far more undomesticated men.
Your dog will never refer to you as 'a bitch'.
In disaster films, the dog is always far more likely to have a miraculous escape.
Dogs do not waste money betting on the dogs.
You can stop dogs getting too randy by throwing a bucket or water over them.
All the best clips on 'You've Been Framed' are the ones with dogs in.
If a dog starts worrying sheep, that's just its natural predatory instinct.
If a MAN starts worrying sheep, however...
A 'King Charles' is much more likely to be a big, floppy-eared dog than a big floppy-eared man.
You can also call a dog schitzu without offending it.
"Working like a dog" is strenuous. Working like a man is, er - not.
You can fondle your dog in the park without being arrested.
A dog will encourage you to lose weight by taking more exercise. A man will just remark on how big your bum looks.
Dogs do not attack other dogs for being a different colour.
Having a dog around the place can actually ease stress.
You'd feel guilty about turning a dog out on the street.
A dog can take a barrel of brandy to a lost mountaineer without drinking ANY.
There aren't so many good reasons to keep a dog muzzled in public.
You can buy a dog's affection with a squeaky toy.
A dog will be eager to walk, rather than getting a taxi.
Most dogs are really good with children.
Dogs have a highly-developed sense of smell. Men, on the other hand, can quite happily wear the same pair of pants for a fortnight.
A dog is more useful for tracking down criminals.
Who did YOU miss most from Blue Peter - John Noakes or Shep?
A dog might actually take a bath of its own accord.
There's more chance of your dog being able to operate the video recorder.
You can buy a choke-chain for a dog.
A 16-year-old dog is very mature.
A dog is easier to keep well-groomed.
Dogs have more chance of receiving an award for bravery.
Dogs are easier to house-train.
Dog do not scratch themselves so much in polite company.
A dog can look as though it understands what you're saying.
Dogs went into space first.
A man will roll over and play dead only if you ask him to get up and make coffee.
Dogs enjoy swimming, and not for the chance to ogle girls in bikinis.
Being a dog's mistress is no reason to feel ashamed.
You can keep your dog tied up if it starts misbehaving.
Saggy skin and a hang-dog look aren't half as appealing on a man.
You can train a dog in obedience.
A dog in a studded collar isn't kinky.
Few men would answer to 'Lassie'.
A dog is a pack animal. A man is a six-pack animal.
Dogs spend the day sniffing drugs only if they're with the police.
Dogs aren't obsessed with 'doing it man-fashion'.
A dog is a faithful companion.
A dog is for life.
Quoted: http://www.travelingdogs.com/jokes.html#better
Spots are an attractive feature on a dog.
A dog is better protection from intruders.
Dogs enjoy ball games. But they don't spend six hours on the phone trying o get tickets for France 98.
Dogs greet each other by sniffing bottoms. Men are far less polite.
Puppy love doesn't wear off so quickly with a dog.
You can be prosecuted for neglecting a dog.
Dogs can find their way back home - even after a really heavy night out.
Dogs can be trained not to lie on the bed. Men always lie in bed.
A dog can moult without becoming obsessed about premature baldness.
Dogs can be taught the meaning of the word "NO!"
A dog is far less irritation to have in the back seat of a car...
...and will be less likely to show its rear end to the people in the vehicle behind for a laugh.
Elizabeth Hurley has a faithful dog whom she loves dearly.
If a dog says sausages, that's clever. If a man says sausages, that's just greedy.
Dogs will wait patiently outside clothes shops...
...and not criticize your purchases afterwards.
A dog will fetch the morning paper for you.
A dog will trot faithfully round at your heel.
Dogs don't break wind in public and blame it on the man.
In the canine world, boxers are quite intelligent.
If a dog gets ill, it won't take eighteen Panadols in order to avoid having to go to the vet.
You can also ask the vet to perform the snip, even if the dog objects.
Small, ginger-haired dogs can be quite appealing. As for men? Two words. Robin Cook.
You can find a nice dog by advertising on a card in a shop window, or in the classified section of the local paper.
A woman can live with more than one dog, without rumours starting.
When dogs beg, it's cute. When men beg it's pathetic.
Dogs sometimes dig the garden.
A dog can go out fox-hunting without being incredibly stuck up and pompous.
Dogs don't necessarily prefer blondes.
Dogs won't get embarrassed if you call them by a pet name when their friends are around.
Dogs travel more cheaply on the bus.
Dogs whine less.
Some dogs can be quite talented at singing.
Men lost the World Cup. A dog found it.
Dogs are less reliant on tinned food...
...but after a few cans, a dog will still be able to stand up.
And there are some things even a dog won't eat - like the remains of a three-day-old King Prawn vindaloo that they found on the floor behind the sofa.
You can leave a dog alone in your house without worrying so much about what it'll break.
A dog gets a new coat every winter.
Dogs are not so careless about leaving puddles on the bathroom floor.
A dog is less likely to leave a filthy, stinking mess for you to clear up.
For a dog, a wet nose is a sign of GOOD health.
Men are even less useful for testing cosmetics on.
Dogs don't wolf-whistle.
There are still thousands of totally undomesticated dogs in Australia; but far more undomesticated men.
Your dog will never refer to you as 'a bitch'.
In disaster films, the dog is always far more likely to have a miraculous escape.
Dogs do not waste money betting on the dogs.
You can stop dogs getting too randy by throwing a bucket or water over them.
All the best clips on 'You've Been Framed' are the ones with dogs in.
If a dog starts worrying sheep, that's just its natural predatory instinct.
If a MAN starts worrying sheep, however...
A 'King Charles' is much more likely to be a big, floppy-eared dog than a big floppy-eared man.
You can also call a dog schitzu without offending it.
"Working like a dog" is strenuous. Working like a man is, er - not.
You can fondle your dog in the park without being arrested.
A dog will encourage you to lose weight by taking more exercise. A man will just remark on how big your bum looks.
Dogs do not attack other dogs for being a different colour.
Having a dog around the place can actually ease stress.
You'd feel guilty about turning a dog out on the street.
A dog can take a barrel of brandy to a lost mountaineer without drinking ANY.
There aren't so many good reasons to keep a dog muzzled in public.
You can buy a dog's affection with a squeaky toy.
A dog will be eager to walk, rather than getting a taxi.
Most dogs are really good with children.
Dogs have a highly-developed sense of smell. Men, on the other hand, can quite happily wear the same pair of pants for a fortnight.
A dog is more useful for tracking down criminals.
Who did YOU miss most from Blue Peter - John Noakes or Shep?
A dog might actually take a bath of its own accord.
There's more chance of your dog being able to operate the video recorder.
You can buy a choke-chain for a dog.
A 16-year-old dog is very mature.
A dog is easier to keep well-groomed.
Dogs have more chance of receiving an award for bravery.
Dogs are easier to house-train.
Dog do not scratch themselves so much in polite company.
A dog can look as though it understands what you're saying.
Dogs went into space first.
A man will roll over and play dead only if you ask him to get up and make coffee.
Dogs enjoy swimming, and not for the chance to ogle girls in bikinis.
Being a dog's mistress is no reason to feel ashamed.
You can keep your dog tied up if it starts misbehaving.
Saggy skin and a hang-dog look aren't half as appealing on a man.
You can train a dog in obedience.
A dog in a studded collar isn't kinky.
Few men would answer to 'Lassie'.
A dog is a pack animal. A man is a six-pack animal.
Dogs spend the day sniffing drugs only if they're with the police.
Dogs aren't obsessed with 'doing it man-fashion'.
A dog is a faithful companion.
A dog is for life.
Quoted: http://www.travelingdogs.com/jokes.html#better
Top ten reasons why a dog is better than a woman
10. A dog's parents will never visit you.
9. A dog loves you when you leave your clothes on the floor.
8. A dog limits its time in the bathroom to a quick drink.
7. A dog never expects you to telephone.
6. A dog will not get mad at you if you forget its birthday.
5. A dog does not care about the previous dogs in your life.
4. A dog does not get mad at you if you pet another dog.
3. A dog never expects flowers on Valentine's Day.
2. The later you are, the happier a dog is to see you.
1. A dog does not shop.
Quoted: http://www.travelingdogs.com/betterthanwoman.html
9. A dog loves you when you leave your clothes on the floor.
8. A dog limits its time in the bathroom to a quick drink.
7. A dog never expects you to telephone.
6. A dog will not get mad at you if you forget its birthday.
5. A dog does not care about the previous dogs in your life.
4. A dog does not get mad at you if you pet another dog.
3. A dog never expects flowers on Valentine's Day.
2. The later you are, the happier a dog is to see you.
1. A dog does not shop.
Quoted: http://www.travelingdogs.com/betterthanwoman.html
How dogs and men are the same
How dogs and men are the same
1. Both take up too much space on the bed.
2. Both have irrational fears about vacuum cleaning.
3. Both mark their territory.
4. Neither tells you what's bothering them.
5. The smaller ones tend to be more nervous.
6. Both have an inordinate fascination with women's crotches.
7. Neither does any dishes.
8. Both fart shamelessly.
9. Neither of them notice when you get your hair cut.
10. Both like dominance games.
11. Both are suspicious of the postman.
12. Neither understands what you see in cats.
Quoted from: http://www.travelingdogs.com/dogsandmen.html
The Glorious Presence of God
Just as we have, are, or will experience the judging presence of God, we will also experience the glory that constantly surround God's presence. In Job 40:9-10, God challenges Job:" Do you have an arm like God's, and can your voice thunder like his? Then adorn yourself with glory and splendor, and clothe yourself in honor and majesty." Evidently, what appear to be intangible ideas to us (such as glory, honor, and majesty) are very real and tangible to God. He can literally clother Himself in honor.
John Mason says, "If God's earthly presence is so good, what is His heavenly presence? If God's being with us is so sweet, what is it to be with God? There is joy in God's gracious presence, but in His glorious presence there is fullness of joy." This world is just a shadow of the things to come. Here, we have a vague glimpse of what things will be like on the other side of eternity.
Currently, we all look forward to the hope of being with Christ for eternity. On this side of eternity, we have but a glimpse of the glory of God. However, on the other side of eternity, we will see all the fullness of the glory of God. We will be with God in the fullness of His glory and goodness. We shall see our Master, our Friend, our Lover, for all the beautify and magnificence that belongs to Him. Heaven is, after all, about fully dwelling in the presence of our King. This is one thing that we have to look forward t: finally seeing, and dwelling, with God as He is.
Living Life
John Mason says, "If God's earthly presence is so good, what is His heavenly presence? If God's being with us is so sweet, what is it to be with God? There is joy in God's gracious presence, but in His glorious presence there is fullness of joy." This world is just a shadow of the things to come. Here, we have a vague glimpse of what things will be like on the other side of eternity.
Currently, we all look forward to the hope of being with Christ for eternity. On this side of eternity, we have but a glimpse of the glory of God. However, on the other side of eternity, we will see all the fullness of the glory of God. We will be with God in the fullness of His glory and goodness. We shall see our Master, our Friend, our Lover, for all the beautify and magnificence that belongs to Him. Heaven is, after all, about fully dwelling in the presence of our King. This is one thing that we have to look forward t: finally seeing, and dwelling, with God as He is.
Living Life
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
The Presence of God, the Judge
God is everywhere. This is a fact that can neither be ignored nor changed. But, what if God were not everywhere, or rather, what if God chose not to be everywhere? God's presence is everywhere, but it has different purpose in different places.
John Mason writes: "The presence of God's glory is in heaven; the presence of His power on earth; the presence of His justice in hell; and the presence of His grace with His people. If he denies us His powerful presence we fall into nothing; if He denies us His gracious presence we fall into sin; if He denies us His merciful presence we fall into hell."
God's glory, power, injustice, mercy and grace are His to use as He pleases. He could have withheld these attributes from us. Instead, God chose to show us who He is. God never shied away from the fact that He is a jealous and just God. Our Father in heaven demands justice, and people will be faced with consequences of their actions committed here on earth. There is no person who will be able to escape the judgment of God-though some will receive mercy.
When people think of what will happen to them when they die, they are more prone to think about their final destination (be that heaven or hell). Yet, each person will go through a due process. And during that process, we will be within the presence of God, the Judge. Some will be told, "Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into your rest." Others will be told, "Depart from me, I never knew you." Whether the verdict is good or bad, each will experience the judgement from God.
Living Life
John Mason writes: "The presence of God's glory is in heaven; the presence of His power on earth; the presence of His justice in hell; and the presence of His grace with His people. If he denies us His powerful presence we fall into nothing; if He denies us His gracious presence we fall into sin; if He denies us His merciful presence we fall into hell."
God's glory, power, injustice, mercy and grace are His to use as He pleases. He could have withheld these attributes from us. Instead, God chose to show us who He is. God never shied away from the fact that He is a jealous and just God. Our Father in heaven demands justice, and people will be faced with consequences of their actions committed here on earth. There is no person who will be able to escape the judgment of God-though some will receive mercy.
When people think of what will happen to them when they die, they are more prone to think about their final destination (be that heaven or hell). Yet, each person will go through a due process. And during that process, we will be within the presence of God, the Judge. Some will be told, "Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into your rest." Others will be told, "Depart from me, I never knew you." Whether the verdict is good or bad, each will experience the judgement from God.
Living Life
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Talking with God
Every relationship requires physical communication as well as physical presence. To have one without the other usually indicates a weak or strained relationship. God is always present with us, but that does not mean that we are always communicating with Him.
Prayer is one of the most important tools that we have to communicate with God. It is in moments of prayer that we often pour out our hearts to God. But what is the point of this? Clearly, God knows exactly what we need. Jesus even says in Matthew 6:8 that God already knows what we need before we ask Him: "Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him."
Nonetheless, Jesus still told His disciples to pray. Why? For the sake of relationship. Jesus, who is the model we are meant to follow, had a strong prayer life. He also had a strong relationship with God the Father. Coincidence? No! Jesus modeled a strong prayer life so that we might have a strong prayer life. Winfield Bevins says, "When the apostles said to Jesus, 'Lord teach us how to pray,' it was because they knew He was a man of profound devotion and prayer. The gospels tell us that Jesus prayed at every major event in His life."
Jesus had a great relationship with God because He spoke with God regularly. Another way of looking at Jesus' prayer life is to realise, as Jesus did, that our Almighty Father is always with us. Instead of ignoring Him like we usually do, we can speak with Him - at any moment. This is what praying without ceasing is: understanding that God is always present that we can always chat with Him.
Living Life
Prayer is one of the most important tools that we have to communicate with God. It is in moments of prayer that we often pour out our hearts to God. But what is the point of this? Clearly, God knows exactly what we need. Jesus even says in Matthew 6:8 that God already knows what we need before we ask Him: "Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him."
Nonetheless, Jesus still told His disciples to pray. Why? For the sake of relationship. Jesus, who is the model we are meant to follow, had a strong prayer life. He also had a strong relationship with God the Father. Coincidence? No! Jesus modeled a strong prayer life so that we might have a strong prayer life. Winfield Bevins says, "When the apostles said to Jesus, 'Lord teach us how to pray,' it was because they knew He was a man of profound devotion and prayer. The gospels tell us that Jesus prayed at every major event in His life."
Jesus had a great relationship with God because He spoke with God regularly. Another way of looking at Jesus' prayer life is to realise, as Jesus did, that our Almighty Father is always with us. Instead of ignoring Him like we usually do, we can speak with Him - at any moment. This is what praying without ceasing is: understanding that God is always present that we can always chat with Him.
Living Life
Monday, August 22, 2011
Fleeing Temptation
What do we do when we are confronted with temptation? Because of our flesh, desires and temptation will come in many shapes and forms. Temptation is, by definition, something we desire to do that we know we shouldn't. The more we are walking with God, the more we are capable of fighting against temptation.
Joseph was a man of God who was confronted with a common temptation: lust. the wife of a powerful Egyptian official tried to seduce Joseph. But Joseph, because he was walking with God, was able to flee (Gen. 39).
Thomas Brooks writes: "There is no drawing of a curtain between God and you. When you are in secret-consider that God is present.... The godly are dissuaded from wickedness, upon the consideration of God's eye and omniscience. Joseph saw God in the room-and therefore dared not yield to lust."
We live in a spiritual world, even if we are not always conscious of that fact. When we give into sin, there are spiritual ramifications. God has called us to resist sin. If we resist sin, the devil will flee from us. We should resist sin because God is there with us, not simply watching, but actively offering the means to overcome temptation.
Temptation may seek to corner us, and it may try to make us feel alone. However, don't forget that even in the midst of temptation God is there.
Living Life
Joseph was a man of God who was confronted with a common temptation: lust. the wife of a powerful Egyptian official tried to seduce Joseph. But Joseph, because he was walking with God, was able to flee (Gen. 39).
Thomas Brooks writes: "There is no drawing of a curtain between God and you. When you are in secret-consider that God is present.... The godly are dissuaded from wickedness, upon the consideration of God's eye and omniscience. Joseph saw God in the room-and therefore dared not yield to lust."
We live in a spiritual world, even if we are not always conscious of that fact. When we give into sin, there are spiritual ramifications. God has called us to resist sin. If we resist sin, the devil will flee from us. We should resist sin because God is there with us, not simply watching, but actively offering the means to overcome temptation.
Temptation may seek to corner us, and it may try to make us feel alone. However, don't forget that even in the midst of temptation God is there.
Living Life
Jesus: Ever Present Mediator
When you die, you will stand in the throne room of God. While you are there, you will be confronted with your entire life and every little thing you have done. Every record of wrong will be presented as evidence against you to condemn you to Hell. We may have thought of ourselves as good and decent people, but in the great throne room of heaven, we will see ourselves for who we really are.
This is where Jesus comes in. For those that call upon the name of the Son of God, there is freedom and redemption. With His blood, Jesus has blotted out all of our transgression. Every record of wrong is thrown away, never to be remembered again. Even though all our "righteous deeds" are like disgusting rags before God, through Jesus we are made clean, white, and as pure as freshly fallen snow.
J.C Ryle writes: " What hope of salvation could we have if there was not a Mediator between God and man? Before the eye of the ever-present God-our best righteousness is filthy rags-and our best doings are full of imperfection!...Without Christ- the prospect of death, judgment, and eternity would drive us to despair!"
But, by His grace, God gave us someone who would always contend for us, who continues to fight on our behalf. His name is Jesus, our ever-present mediator.
Living Life
This is where Jesus comes in. For those that call upon the name of the Son of God, there is freedom and redemption. With His blood, Jesus has blotted out all of our transgression. Every record of wrong is thrown away, never to be remembered again. Even though all our "righteous deeds" are like disgusting rags before God, through Jesus we are made clean, white, and as pure as freshly fallen snow.
J.C Ryle writes: " What hope of salvation could we have if there was not a Mediator between God and man? Before the eye of the ever-present God-our best righteousness is filthy rags-and our best doings are full of imperfection!...Without Christ- the prospect of death, judgment, and eternity would drive us to despair!"
But, by His grace, God gave us someone who would always contend for us, who continues to fight on our behalf. His name is Jesus, our ever-present mediator.
Living Life
God Contends with Us
Is it better to ignore a child who is screaming, or to punish that child? Sometimes it is best to ignore someone who is screaming but not to the point of negligence. Sometimes it is best to punish children, but not at the risk of abuse. God treats rebellious people in both manners, but all for a simple purpose: He wants to instructs us in the proper way (not the way that seems the most gratifying).
Thomas Watson points to Job 5:17, which says, "Blessed is the one whom God corrects; so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty." Watson further explains, "Persecution is a rod, yes-but for all that it is a blessed rod, it is a healing rod. Though the rod smarts-yet it saves the soul.... Affliction is like throwing a bag of money at another person; it may bruise him- but it enriches him."
God corrects us when we stray because He loves us. He is always present in our lives, and He wants to see us succeed. God corrects us because we matter to Him. He does not wish to see us fall to the depths of darkness.
God is not cruel. He doesn't want to see us hurt. He seeks to love, comfort, and encourage us. He desires to ultimately build us up. God is always present in our lives, molding us into the men and women He wants us to be.
Living Life
Thomas Watson points to Job 5:17, which says, "Blessed is the one whom God corrects; so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty." Watson further explains, "Persecution is a rod, yes-but for all that it is a blessed rod, it is a healing rod. Though the rod smarts-yet it saves the soul.... Affliction is like throwing a bag of money at another person; it may bruise him- but it enriches him."
God corrects us when we stray because He loves us. He is always present in our lives, and He wants to see us succeed. God corrects us because we matter to Him. He does not wish to see us fall to the depths of darkness.
God is not cruel. He doesn't want to see us hurt. He seeks to love, comfort, and encourage us. He desires to ultimately build us up. God is always present in our lives, molding us into the men and women He wants us to be.
Living Life
Thursday, August 18, 2011
God with Us
God became Emmanuel (that is Jesus Christ), which means God with Is. The God of the Universe, the Almighty, the I AM, humbled Himself even to the point of only becoming man, but dying as a man. God literally walked on the earth.
God did this because He chose to be with us. God chose us (as opposed to angles, ants or aliens), which is incredible in itself. He allowed humanity to walk with Him. Furthermore, God chose to be with us. God could easily have decided to be opposed to us or distant from us. But we serve a God who loves us so much that He desires to be with us and amongst us at all times.
Because God has actively chosen to be with us, there is nothing that can separate us from Him. God is with us when we wake up, when we go to bed and while we are sleeping. He is with us in every ordinary or extraordinary circumstance. Christ is with us in our trouble and weakness, and more importantly, as Octavius Winslow states, "[You have] no burden which His arm of power cannot bear, no perplexity which His wisdom cannot guide. In a word, you have no condition to which Christ, our ever present God, is not equal."
We don't have to make sacrifices before talking with God. We don't have to perform rituals to try to be pure, perfect, and blameless before coming to Him. Because God is with us, we have immediate access to Him, regardless of pain, anxiety, or sin.
Living Life
God did this because He chose to be with us. God chose us (as opposed to angles, ants or aliens), which is incredible in itself. He allowed humanity to walk with Him. Furthermore, God chose to be with us. God could easily have decided to be opposed to us or distant from us. But we serve a God who loves us so much that He desires to be with us and amongst us at all times.
Because God has actively chosen to be with us, there is nothing that can separate us from Him. God is with us when we wake up, when we go to bed and while we are sleeping. He is with us in every ordinary or extraordinary circumstance. Christ is with us in our trouble and weakness, and more importantly, as Octavius Winslow states, "[You have] no burden which His arm of power cannot bear, no perplexity which His wisdom cannot guide. In a word, you have no condition to which Christ, our ever present God, is not equal."
We don't have to make sacrifices before talking with God. We don't have to perform rituals to try to be pure, perfect, and blameless before coming to Him. Because God is with us, we have immediate access to Him, regardless of pain, anxiety, or sin.
Living Life
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
God rejoices with Us
When speaking of the omnipresence of God, it is easy to focus on how God sees our wickedness, even when no one else knows about our secret sins. We also use it to encourage people who are mourning, to let them know that God is with them even in their pain. But it is important not to forget that God is also with us when we are full of gladness!
Although pain is a part of life, it is not the only part of life. There are times for sorrow and times for confessing sins, but there are certainly times to rejoice in the Lord. In fact, Philippians 4:4 says, "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" That's right! We are meant to always be full of joy because of God.
J.R.Miller writes: "Joy is deeper than happiness. Happiness is the fruit of prosperous conditions. It is the outcome of fortuitous happenings, of favorable circumstances. Joy is independent of circumstance. It dwells in the heart-as a never failing fountain. Happiness laugh when the sun shines-but grows sad when clouds gather. Joy sings on in all weathers and in all experiences."
Joy is a gift from God, but it is a gift that is meant to be shared in unison with Him. It is God who completes us, it is God who saves us, and it is God who loves us. We get the chance to rejoice in the very presence of God. When we dance, sing, and worship Him with our hearts, minds, and souls, He is there in the midst of our praise. So rejoice with God in all things, always.
Living Life
Although pain is a part of life, it is not the only part of life. There are times for sorrow and times for confessing sins, but there are certainly times to rejoice in the Lord. In fact, Philippians 4:4 says, "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" That's right! We are meant to always be full of joy because of God.
J.R.Miller writes: "Joy is deeper than happiness. Happiness is the fruit of prosperous conditions. It is the outcome of fortuitous happenings, of favorable circumstances. Joy is independent of circumstance. It dwells in the heart-as a never failing fountain. Happiness laugh when the sun shines-but grows sad when clouds gather. Joy sings on in all weathers and in all experiences."
Joy is a gift from God, but it is a gift that is meant to be shared in unison with Him. It is God who completes us, it is God who saves us, and it is God who loves us. We get the chance to rejoice in the very presence of God. When we dance, sing, and worship Him with our hearts, minds, and souls, He is there in the midst of our praise. So rejoice with God in all things, always.
Living Life
Monday, August 15, 2011
God with Us in Weakness
We all have some measure of strength and skill. Some possess physical athleticism, while others are very intelligent and studious. Being gifted is not a bad thing, and it is not something to be ashamed about. God has used very intelligent and skilled people through time. However, each one of them fell into sin in one form or another. Solomon, for all his wisdom, fell into idolatry. Samson gave into physical desires. While other prophets' sins are not expressly written about in the Bible, you can be guaranteed that every man, woman, and child found in the Bible - with the exception of ONLY Jesus-sinned in some way.
But this is the amazing grace of God. even when we sin, even in our weakness, He is right there with us. Joshua, for example, did not seem to think he "had what it took" to replace Moses as the leader of Israel. God didn't simply let Joshua walk away from the job or find someone else who was a more confident leader. God declared to Joshua in Joshua 1:9, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." This is the promise that we can hold onto today: our God will be with us, no matter what, even in our weakness.
J.C Philpot says: "It is a humbling lesson to learn, but blessed when learned, that all the strength we have to fight and gain the victory is wholly from the Lord.... This lesson every child of God has to learn in his own experience."
Living Life
But this is the amazing grace of God. even when we sin, even in our weakness, He is right there with us. Joshua, for example, did not seem to think he "had what it took" to replace Moses as the leader of Israel. God didn't simply let Joshua walk away from the job or find someone else who was a more confident leader. God declared to Joshua in Joshua 1:9, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." This is the promise that we can hold onto today: our God will be with us, no matter what, even in our weakness.
J.C Philpot says: "It is a humbling lesson to learn, but blessed when learned, that all the strength we have to fight and gain the victory is wholly from the Lord.... This lesson every child of God has to learn in his own experience."
Living Life
Friday, August 12, 2011
Moving Foward with God
Life has its ups and downs. Sometimes we do really well in all the various spheres of our lives. We experience amazing fellowship with God, and things at home and work go precisely according to plan. Then , there are other moments in our lives when we back-slide into sin, such as fighting with family, and struggling at work.
Both of these instances can bring us into the presence of God. The first will bring us into His throne room filled with praise, while the latter will bring us to our knees in humble surrender. But how do we approach God in the doldrums of life? What do we feel like our life is in a rut? Arthur Pink writes, "Go forward!... We need to clearly realize there is no such thing as remaining stationary in the spiritual life: if we do not progress-we inevitably retrograde.... Your history this year will either be one of going forward - or backsliding."
We are in a race. Anyone who has been in a race knows that the race needs to be finished. It does not matter, necessarily, how strongly we start the race. If we give up running after God in the middle of our lives, our whole race will be in vain.
However we are doing spiritually, God encourages us to move forward with Him in His eternal presence. We are stubborn; we are rebellious. Yet God says of His people in Hosea 2:14, "Therefore I am now going to allure her; I will lead her into the wilderness and speak tenderly to her."
Living Life
Both of these instances can bring us into the presence of God. The first will bring us into His throne room filled with praise, while the latter will bring us to our knees in humble surrender. But how do we approach God in the doldrums of life? What do we feel like our life is in a rut? Arthur Pink writes, "Go forward!... We need to clearly realize there is no such thing as remaining stationary in the spiritual life: if we do not progress-we inevitably retrograde.... Your history this year will either be one of going forward - or backsliding."
We are in a race. Anyone who has been in a race knows that the race needs to be finished. It does not matter, necessarily, how strongly we start the race. If we give up running after God in the middle of our lives, our whole race will be in vain.
However we are doing spiritually, God encourages us to move forward with Him in His eternal presence. We are stubborn; we are rebellious. Yet God says of His people in Hosea 2:14, "Therefore I am now going to allure her; I will lead her into the wilderness and speak tenderly to her."
Living Life
Thursday, August 11, 2011
God Reasons with Us
The mind is a magnificent gift that God gave to humanity. The human brain is still considered to be the most advanced computer in existence. While traditional computers might perform calculations faster, the human brain posses the unique ability to grow, learn, and expand.
People all too often seem to see a dissonance between science and religion. Many people seem to think that you can either have academic intelligence or faith in God, but not both.
God created us to reason. God gave us a brain, and this should encourage us to utilize God's gift. There are limitations to reason, just as there are limitations to everything that mankind hopes to achieve or pursue. No one will ever gain access to heaven through reason alone, but only by the grace of God. Nonetheless, God very often reason with us throughout the Bible. Charles Spurgeon contends, "The sinful condition of men is terrible in the extreme.... God himself interposes to produce a chance. The proposal of peace is always from His side. He urges that a conference be held at once, 'Come, and let us reason together.'"
What's amazing about this is that God chooses to speak with us as intelligent beings. He does not simply say, "Do as you are told because U am God!" God reasons with us to address our very specific thoughts and concerns. God does not run away from our logical and philosophical inquires. Amazingly, God is present with us, even in our "rational doubt.
Living Life
People all too often seem to see a dissonance between science and religion. Many people seem to think that you can either have academic intelligence or faith in God, but not both.
God created us to reason. God gave us a brain, and this should encourage us to utilize God's gift. There are limitations to reason, just as there are limitations to everything that mankind hopes to achieve or pursue. No one will ever gain access to heaven through reason alone, but only by the grace of God. Nonetheless, God very often reason with us throughout the Bible. Charles Spurgeon contends, "The sinful condition of men is terrible in the extreme.... God himself interposes to produce a chance. The proposal of peace is always from His side. He urges that a conference be held at once, 'Come, and let us reason together.'"
What's amazing about this is that God chooses to speak with us as intelligent beings. He does not simply say, "Do as you are told because U am God!" God reasons with us to address our very specific thoughts and concerns. God does not run away from our logical and philosophical inquires. Amazingly, God is present with us, even in our "rational doubt.
Living Life
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
God with Us Emotionally
Even though it was physically written by man, the Bible is from God. 2 Peter 1:21 states, "For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit." Therefore, everything in Scripture ultimately comes from God. The Word of God is nothing short of His love letter to us. One book of the Bible that emphasizes God's emotional letter to humanity is the book of Psalms.
The book of Psalms is poetic in nature, and it shows us a different side of our God. While other books in the Bible present us with laws, doctrine, or history, the book of Psalms is different. The psalms not only eloquently display a large range of human emotions, but also express how we are to come to God with all of our emotions. God is not a cold, emotionless, rational being. God has many emotions, as do we, and He expresses His emotions, as should we.
John Piper states, "The Psalms can and should be part of the constant practice of the presence of God. Regularly read from beginning to end, they lead us again and again to consider aspects of life and of God's will that we might not otherwise choose to remember or confront - let alone to embody in our living."
Love, sorrow, regret, shame, delight, gladness, desire, grief and hope are just a few examples of emotions used throughout Psalms. Since all emotions come from God, all our emotional states should in turn point us back to God.
Living Life
The book of Psalms is poetic in nature, and it shows us a different side of our God. While other books in the Bible present us with laws, doctrine, or history, the book of Psalms is different. The psalms not only eloquently display a large range of human emotions, but also express how we are to come to God with all of our emotions. God is not a cold, emotionless, rational being. God has many emotions, as do we, and He expresses His emotions, as should we.
John Piper states, "The Psalms can and should be part of the constant practice of the presence of God. Regularly read from beginning to end, they lead us again and again to consider aspects of life and of God's will that we might not otherwise choose to remember or confront - let alone to embody in our living."
Love, sorrow, regret, shame, delight, gladness, desire, grief and hope are just a few examples of emotions used throughout Psalms. Since all emotions come from God, all our emotional states should in turn point us back to God.
Living Life
Tuesday, August 09, 2011
The Privilege of God's Presence
What was your family life like growing up? Were your parents always at home, or were they away on business? Did you have parents who actively sought to have a relationship with you, or were you unjustly ignored?
We know what we want from our earthly families. Parents must have relationship with their children. Simply providing money for education and food is not sufficient. When parents do not have intimate relationship with their kids ,there are serious consequences and scars that will ultimately result. Those who were raised in broken homes or with abusive parents are more than aware of this problem.
God is our creator, and He could have ended our relationship at that. He could have provided just for our physical needs and left our relationship at that. However, our God chose to be actively always with us. This is a privilege. James Smith writes:" The presence of God. This is either God's natural presence - or gracious presence. God is present with all his creatures by necessary of nature, being infinite, and filling all space. But he is graciously present with his people0 as a Father with his children, or a shepherd with his flock."
God does not simply exist. He is incredibly concerned with each person's daily life. He is highly invested in the decisions we make in life, and He wants what is best for us. Unlike our parents (after all, no parent is perfect or omniscient), God really and truly knows what is best for us. He wants us to live our lives to the maximum capacity, which is with Him.
Living Life
We know what we want from our earthly families. Parents must have relationship with their children. Simply providing money for education and food is not sufficient. When parents do not have intimate relationship with their kids ,there are serious consequences and scars that will ultimately result. Those who were raised in broken homes or with abusive parents are more than aware of this problem.
God is our creator, and He could have ended our relationship at that. He could have provided just for our physical needs and left our relationship at that. However, our God chose to be actively always with us. This is a privilege. James Smith writes:" The presence of God. This is either God's natural presence - or gracious presence. God is present with all his creatures by necessary of nature, being infinite, and filling all space. But he is graciously present with his people0 as a Father with his children, or a shepherd with his flock."
God does not simply exist. He is incredibly concerned with each person's daily life. He is highly invested in the decisions we make in life, and He wants what is best for us. Unlike our parents (after all, no parent is perfect or omniscient), God really and truly knows what is best for us. He wants us to live our lives to the maximum capacity, which is with Him.
Living Life
The different aspects of mate selection
Pheromone, secreted or excreted chemical factor that triggers a social response in members of the same species. These are picked up by our senses, subconsciously processing the data. This was shown by an lab experiment (showcased on Sexual Secrets TV Show), where females are asked to rank the attractiveness by just merely the sweat odour of males.
There were studies also that the sweat odour, byproducts of the bacteria that resided on the hair, have a close link with the immune system. Genetic compatibility and diversification seems to be the main factor of consideration. However, how could such sense be processed in such a fast and quick way? Was learning or even memory involved? Or it is just a natural selection process?
There were studies also that the sweat odour, byproducts of the bacteria that resided on the hair, have a close link with the immune system. Genetic compatibility and diversification seems to be the main factor of consideration. However, how could such sense be processed in such a fast and quick way? Was learning or even memory involved? Or it is just a natural selection process?
Other than senses, Rhodes, G. demonstrated this in her analysis of research dealing with the relationship of symmetry, averageness, and sexual dimorphism to facial attractiveness. She cites research suggesting that each of these facial characteristics may be considered ideally
attractive because they are related to judgments of physical health, also known as the “good-genes” approach beauty. These attractive features may suggest a representation freedom from parasites and infectious diseases.
On the other side, there was an experiment, where 10 females and 10 males, put on suit that cover their body contour figures. All of them have a ranking of attractiveness, 1 - 10 on their forehead, unknown to the person. Each of them are suppose to find their mate and get their mate with a handshake. The result of the experiment shows that in a majority of the case, similiarly ranked female and male are paired together.
Those who wish to aim for the better ranked, if they could not get it, they will settle with the not so high ranked or whoever remains.
So which plays a major role in mate selection process? Does the media communication of attractiveness of figure of 8 and V-shaped bodies is part of the natural selection process or it is evoluting the process?
Or perhaps programs like Bachelor / bachelorette programs, showcasing chooser and competitor scenario; perceived scarcity of "good" mates for graduate with the setting up of SDN and other dating sites; early exposure of sexuality content at a increasingly younger age. How these affect the trend that when people get marry ?
Conscious or subconscious process that happens daily but yet takes much details to describe each and every stage and process.
An experiment (showcased on BBC Discovery) where individual males and females are shown pictures of various nature, ranging from nature to erotic ones. They are asked to rate their level of arousal using a measuring dial. At the same time, they are also measured on the amount of blood in their genital area. The result of the experiment shown the level of arousal indicated by the person may be low, physically they are aroused. This is more apparent with females.
The difference in one conscious and subconscious natural response may suggest that, with our senses, and according to one's defintion of attractiveness, that they are silently attracted to someone.
It puzzles and amaze me how this process has evolved from a simple matchmaking process in the past to the highly researched and continously being researched topic. So is the process of mate selection a purely biological or social process?
Whatever it may be, it may not have a quick impact on the increasing age of marriage in Singapore.
There were studies also that the sweat odour, byproducts of the bacteria that resided on the hair, have a close link with the immune system. Genetic compatibility and diversification seems to be the main factor of consideration. However, how could such sense be processed in such a fast and quick way? Was learning or even memory involved? Or it is just a natural selection process?
There were studies also that the sweat odour, byproducts of the bacteria that resided on the hair, have a close link with the immune system. Genetic compatibility and diversification seems to be the main factor of consideration. However, how could such sense be processed in such a fast and quick way? Was learning or even memory involved? Or it is just a natural selection process?
Other than senses, Rhodes, G. demonstrated this in her analysis of research dealing with the relationship of symmetry, averageness, and sexual dimorphism to facial attractiveness. She cites research suggesting that each of these facial characteristics may be considered ideally
attractive because they are related to judgments of physical health, also known as the “good-genes” approach beauty. These attractive features may suggest a representation freedom from parasites and infectious diseases.
On the other side, there was an experiment, where 10 females and 10 males, put on suit that cover their body contour figures. All of them have a ranking of attractiveness, 1 - 10 on their forehead, unknown to the person. Each of them are suppose to find their mate and get their mate with a handshake. The result of the experiment shows that in a majority of the case, similiarly ranked female and male are paired together.
Those who wish to aim for the better ranked, if they could not get it, they will settle with the not so high ranked or whoever remains.
So which plays a major role in mate selection process? Does the media communication of attractiveness of figure of 8 and V-shaped bodies is part of the natural selection process or it is evoluting the process?
Or perhaps programs like Bachelor / bachelorette programs, showcasing chooser and competitor scenario; perceived scarcity of "good" mates for graduate with the setting up of SDN and other dating sites; early exposure of sexuality content at a increasingly younger age. How these affect the trend that when people get marry ?
Conscious or subconscious process that happens daily but yet takes much details to describe each and every stage and process.
An experiment (showcased on BBC Discovery) where individual males and females are shown pictures of various nature, ranging from nature to erotic ones. They are asked to rate their level of arousal using a measuring dial. At the same time, they are also measured on the amount of blood in their genital area. The result of the experiment shown the level of arousal indicated by the person may be low, physically they are aroused. This is more apparent with females.
The difference in one conscious and subconscious natural response may suggest that, with our senses, and according to one's defintion of attractiveness, that they are silently attracted to someone.
It puzzles and amaze me how this process has evolved from a simple matchmaking process in the past to the highly researched and continously being researched topic. So is the process of mate selection a purely biological or social process?
Whatever it may be, it may not have a quick impact on the increasing age of marriage in Singapore.
Monday, August 08, 2011
God Speaks to Us
From the very beginning, people were designed to be social creatures. God did not create humanity to live lonesome lives that rarely intersect with one another. As we engage with one another, we form relationships that range from causal acquaintances to intimate life partners. The more we develop our relationship with others, the more physical time we spend in each others' presence.
The same holds true for our relationship with God. As we come to know Him more and more, we hear Him and see Him move in our lives. And God does show up in our lives in a very physical way. As we walk with Him, we learn to see how He speaks to us (be it through dreams, prayer, worship, etc.) God speaks to everyone in many different ways, but He does definitely speak to us.
Charles Sprugeon notes: "We are enabled to feel his word as spoken to us. Immediately: 'I tell you' Personal contact. Forcefully: 'in the ear.' Not as thundered from Sinai, but as whispered by 'a still, small voice.' Still, very effectually.
While God does want to be worshipped for who He is, God- for all His majesty and glory-still desires to have a deep relationship with us. So God meets with us as we are and where we are. God the Holy Spirit speaks to us and intercedes for us on our behalf. He doesn't scream at us or thunder down at us from Heaven. He speaks tenderly, to guide, comfort, and encourage us. This shows us that God must be near. After all, you can only hear the whisper of someone who is right next to you.
Living Life
The same holds true for our relationship with God. As we come to know Him more and more, we hear Him and see Him move in our lives. And God does show up in our lives in a very physical way. As we walk with Him, we learn to see how He speaks to us (be it through dreams, prayer, worship, etc.) God speaks to everyone in many different ways, but He does definitely speak to us.
Charles Sprugeon notes: "We are enabled to feel his word as spoken to us. Immediately: 'I tell you' Personal contact. Forcefully: 'in the ear.' Not as thundered from Sinai, but as whispered by 'a still, small voice.' Still, very effectually.
While God does want to be worshipped for who He is, God- for all His majesty and glory-still desires to have a deep relationship with us. So God meets with us as we are and where we are. God the Holy Spirit speaks to us and intercedes for us on our behalf. He doesn't scream at us or thunder down at us from Heaven. He speaks tenderly, to guide, comfort, and encourage us. This shows us that God must be near. After all, you can only hear the whisper of someone who is right next to you.
Living Life
Saturday, August 06, 2011
Where Is Your God?
We all know that natural events occur each and every day. They come in various forms and intensities, and they happen for a wide variety of reasons. One critique of God focuses on why God lets horrendous disasters occur. When tragedies strike, people (even Christians) might be tempted to ask, "Where is God in all of this?"
Where was God when the earthquake-tsunami-nuclear leak struck Japan? Where is God when loved ones are killed in a car accident? Where is God when cancer, disease and famine hit, or when people are brutally mangled and disfigured?
J.C. Ryle is quoted as saying: "'Where is your God, my boy?' said an infidel to a child whom he saw coming out of a church. 'Where is your God, about whom you have been reading? Show Him to me, and I will give you a treat!' Show me where He is not,' was the answer, 'and I will you two! My God is everywhere.!'"
The answer is simple: God is always there. He never left, nor did He fall asleep, nor did He become powerless or evil. God is always present, always good, always vigilant and watchful, and always powerful. If this is true of God, why do atrocities occur?
Disasters strike, ultimately, because we live in a fallen world, not because of what God did or didn't do. Furthermore, never forget that we are limited in who we are and what we know. We don't have the knowledge to comprehend everything that happens in the supernatural realm. Even though we cannot see the supernatural realm, it heavily impacts the physical one that we can see.
Living Life
Where was God when the earthquake-tsunami-nuclear leak struck Japan? Where is God when loved ones are killed in a car accident? Where is God when cancer, disease and famine hit, or when people are brutally mangled and disfigured?
J.C. Ryle is quoted as saying: "'Where is your God, my boy?' said an infidel to a child whom he saw coming out of a church. 'Where is your God, about whom you have been reading? Show Him to me, and I will give you a treat!' Show me where He is not,' was the answer, 'and I will you two! My God is everywhere.!'"
The answer is simple: God is always there. He never left, nor did He fall asleep, nor did He become powerless or evil. God is always present, always good, always vigilant and watchful, and always powerful. If this is true of God, why do atrocities occur?
Disasters strike, ultimately, because we live in a fallen world, not because of what God did or didn't do. Furthermore, never forget that we are limited in who we are and what we know. We don't have the knowledge to comprehend everything that happens in the supernatural realm. Even though we cannot see the supernatural realm, it heavily impacts the physical one that we can see.
Living Life
Praise God's Omnipresence
God's omnipresence is something that should fill us with awe. As humans, we are very limited in what we can do. We are limited in the time that we can stay here on earth. We are limited in the places that we can go, and the things that we can do every day, week, month and year. We are limited in what languages we can learn, what subjects we can study, and even how much money we can make in a lifetime.
Our whole lives work under the paradigm of limits. We learn what our limits are, and occasionally, we try to break past our current physical, mental, or emotional limitations to new boundaries. But, as much as we may try to push our own limits, we can never become limitless. Only God is.
This is one of the qualities of our God. He is limitless. This enables Him to do whatever He sees fit to do. We can only sit back and marvel at God for who He is and what He is capable of. Thomas Reade writes: "When I reflect upon your omnipotence, omniscience, and omnipresence; upon your infinite holiness, inviolable justice, and unerring wisdom; upon your faithfulness, and truth; your everlasting love, your sovereign grace, and your patience; how am I filled with awe and dread!"
We are often told of God's amazing attributes, but we don't often take the time to dwell on what God really is capable of. We say God is everywhere, but not only do we take this for granted, we downplay how awesome and incredible this really is. Don't forget to praise God because He is everywhere!
Living Life
Our whole lives work under the paradigm of limits. We learn what our limits are, and occasionally, we try to break past our current physical, mental, or emotional limitations to new boundaries. But, as much as we may try to push our own limits, we can never become limitless. Only God is.
This is one of the qualities of our God. He is limitless. This enables Him to do whatever He sees fit to do. We can only sit back and marvel at God for who He is and what He is capable of. Thomas Reade writes: "When I reflect upon your omnipotence, omniscience, and omnipresence; upon your infinite holiness, inviolable justice, and unerring wisdom; upon your faithfulness, and truth; your everlasting love, your sovereign grace, and your patience; how am I filled with awe and dread!"
We are often told of God's amazing attributes, but we don't often take the time to dwell on what God really is capable of. We say God is everywhere, but not only do we take this for granted, we downplay how awesome and incredible this really is. Don't forget to praise God because He is everywhere!
Living Life
6 tips for winning anyone over
6 tips for winning anyone over
By Caitlin Ascolese
Sure, being good-looking and charming will certainly make you more of a catch. But there’s an even more crucial component to attracting others that’s so simple we almost feel weird saying it: make your date feel good-looking and charming. Do that, and trust us... this person will be back for more. In a day and age when the romantic options out there are seemingly endless, it’s easy to feel like you are just a number. Prove you think the cutie sitting across from you is one of a kind, though, and it can make a huge difference. But how do you make someone feel, well, special? It’s not as hard as you think — just try these six tips and watch your love interest light up.
Flattery strategy #1: Get specific with your praise
Since daters often feel like they’re just one amongst a parade of people having coffee with you, demonstrate some genuine interest in the next one you meet to help erase that fear. “We studied the relationship between reciprocity and romance and found that if someone thinks you’re attracted to him or her, it increases that person’s attraction to you,” says Eli Finkel, Ph.D., a psychology professor at Northwestern University. On the other hand, “If someone’s attracted to you but getting the sense that you’re attracted to lots of other people, he or she will tend to dislike you.” The upshot? Prove you’re picky (and that this person fits your high criteria). Then you’re well on your way to making this potential amour pick you, too. Reread his or her profile right before you meet up and tell your date exactly why it stood out from the rest and what you noticed first. And nix any mentions of past bad dates or other negative experiences, which can make it inadvertently seem like you’ll give anyone the time of day.
Flattery strategy #2: Create insider info between the two of you
You don’t have to be old friends to cultivate a comfortable rapport with someone. “Make references to things you’ve discussed or emailed about,” says dating coach Annie Dennison, Ph.D. “It creates a sense of intimacy and shows your date you’re really listening.” To really drive home that you find your date fascinating, ask for more information on details he or she mentioned in passing (“I know you like Jay-Z. Which album of his do you think I should download?”). Or tie together stories (yours or your date’s) with a follow-up line like, “Wow, that reminds me of what you were telling me about your trip to Costa Rica/your overbearing boss/football obsession.”
Flattery strategy #3: Congratulate your date
If you want your sweetie to really beam, show you’re impressed by a feat that he or she is especially proud of. “We did a study and found that when people told others about something good that happened to them and the person responded positively, it improved the whole experience,” Shelly Gable, Ph.D., professor of psychology at the University of California, Santa Barbara. So don’t just say “Cool!” when your date mentions a win like getting into grad school, finishing a 10K, or just getting an amazing deal at an outlet store. Get into it and ask what he felt when he got the news, how she reacted, which person he told first, or how long she’d been hoping for it to happen. Answering the questions will let your date relive some of the excitement — and associate you with an unexpectedly happy buzz.
Flattery strategy #4: Compliment qualities that are unrelated to looks
When you admire a not-so-obvious trait that your date has, it makes you seem super-insightful. An easy place to start is by connecting his or her job to a quality you appreciate. Tell an accountant that you’re always especially envious of detail-oriented people; tell a teacher you’re in awe of those who can motivate others. If you like what your date is wearing or how this person decorated his or her home, “don’t compliment the ‘thing’ — anyone can buy a thing — but call out what it says about him or her,” says Susan Rabin, author of Lucky in Love. Instead of the tie itself, praise the person’s individual style; instead of muttering “nice couch,” say you’re wowed by people who have an eye for color and design.
Flattery Strategy #5: Emphasize your date’s name in your verbal responses
When someone shares an anecdote, most of us fall back on interjections like “Unh-UH!” or “Wow, that’s crazy!” The problem is, those encouragements also sound like clichés — especially once you’ve used them several times in one evening. A better way to punctuate your partner’s story? “Use his or her name,” says Dennison. Hearing a specific name — whether it’s “Wow, Sheila, you’re so brave!” or “Way to go, Jeremy, I’m impressed!” — will make dates think you really get what’s so “them” about the tale they just told, which is way more flattering than wondering if you were listening at all.
Flattery strategy #6: Playfully tease your date
If you saw The Departed, you probably remember the scene when Matt Damon asks his date something like: “What makes you think I want a second date with you?” — then bursts out laughing. It turns out those childhood playground tormentors (“Ewww, you have cooties!”) were onto something. “Thinking someone is attracted to you is great, but our research also suggests that not being sure about it actually heightens the excitement,” says grad student Paul Eastwick, Finkel’s research partner at the Northwestern Relationships Lab. Hearing that kind of rejection can spike feelings of anxiety — then fill you with relief when you realize it was a gag. So if you’re sure your date has a good sense of humor, give him or her a little ribbing first: “Oh no, you’re an Aquarius? Shoot, I have a rule about that.” Not only do you get to have an instant inside joke, it sends a subtle message that you’re into your date enough to be comfortable joking about it. Just make sure you don’t tease about something the person’s sensitive about — that’s not flirting; that’s an insult.
Caitlin Ascolese is a freelance writer in New York City.
Quoted: http://yahoo.match.com/y/article.aspx?articleid=10039&TrackingID=526103&BannerID=799141
By Caitlin Ascolese
Sure, being good-looking and charming will certainly make you more of a catch. But there’s an even more crucial component to attracting others that’s so simple we almost feel weird saying it: make your date feel good-looking and charming. Do that, and trust us... this person will be back for more. In a day and age when the romantic options out there are seemingly endless, it’s easy to feel like you are just a number. Prove you think the cutie sitting across from you is one of a kind, though, and it can make a huge difference. But how do you make someone feel, well, special? It’s not as hard as you think — just try these six tips and watch your love interest light up.
Flattery strategy #1: Get specific with your praise
Since daters often feel like they’re just one amongst a parade of people having coffee with you, demonstrate some genuine interest in the next one you meet to help erase that fear. “We studied the relationship between reciprocity and romance and found that if someone thinks you’re attracted to him or her, it increases that person’s attraction to you,” says Eli Finkel, Ph.D., a psychology professor at Northwestern University. On the other hand, “If someone’s attracted to you but getting the sense that you’re attracted to lots of other people, he or she will tend to dislike you.” The upshot? Prove you’re picky (and that this person fits your high criteria). Then you’re well on your way to making this potential amour pick you, too. Reread his or her profile right before you meet up and tell your date exactly why it stood out from the rest and what you noticed first. And nix any mentions of past bad dates or other negative experiences, which can make it inadvertently seem like you’ll give anyone the time of day.
Flattery strategy #2: Create insider info between the two of you
You don’t have to be old friends to cultivate a comfortable rapport with someone. “Make references to things you’ve discussed or emailed about,” says dating coach Annie Dennison, Ph.D. “It creates a sense of intimacy and shows your date you’re really listening.” To really drive home that you find your date fascinating, ask for more information on details he or she mentioned in passing (“I know you like Jay-Z. Which album of his do you think I should download?”). Or tie together stories (yours or your date’s) with a follow-up line like, “Wow, that reminds me of what you were telling me about your trip to Costa Rica/your overbearing boss/football obsession.”
Flattery strategy #3: Congratulate your date
If you want your sweetie to really beam, show you’re impressed by a feat that he or she is especially proud of. “We did a study and found that when people told others about something good that happened to them and the person responded positively, it improved the whole experience,” Shelly Gable, Ph.D., professor of psychology at the University of California, Santa Barbara. So don’t just say “Cool!” when your date mentions a win like getting into grad school, finishing a 10K, or just getting an amazing deal at an outlet store. Get into it and ask what he felt when he got the news, how she reacted, which person he told first, or how long she’d been hoping for it to happen. Answering the questions will let your date relive some of the excitement — and associate you with an unexpectedly happy buzz.
Flattery strategy #4: Compliment qualities that are unrelated to looks
When you admire a not-so-obvious trait that your date has, it makes you seem super-insightful. An easy place to start is by connecting his or her job to a quality you appreciate. Tell an accountant that you’re always especially envious of detail-oriented people; tell a teacher you’re in awe of those who can motivate others. If you like what your date is wearing or how this person decorated his or her home, “don’t compliment the ‘thing’ — anyone can buy a thing — but call out what it says about him or her,” says Susan Rabin, author of Lucky in Love. Instead of the tie itself, praise the person’s individual style; instead of muttering “nice couch,” say you’re wowed by people who have an eye for color and design.
Flattery Strategy #5: Emphasize your date’s name in your verbal responses
When someone shares an anecdote, most of us fall back on interjections like “Unh-UH!” or “Wow, that’s crazy!” The problem is, those encouragements also sound like clichés — especially once you’ve used them several times in one evening. A better way to punctuate your partner’s story? “Use his or her name,” says Dennison. Hearing a specific name — whether it’s “Wow, Sheila, you’re so brave!” or “Way to go, Jeremy, I’m impressed!” — will make dates think you really get what’s so “them” about the tale they just told, which is way more flattering than wondering if you were listening at all.
Flattery strategy #6: Playfully tease your date
If you saw The Departed, you probably remember the scene when Matt Damon asks his date something like: “What makes you think I want a second date with you?” — then bursts out laughing. It turns out those childhood playground tormentors (“Ewww, you have cooties!”) were onto something. “Thinking someone is attracted to you is great, but our research also suggests that not being sure about it actually heightens the excitement,” says grad student Paul Eastwick, Finkel’s research partner at the Northwestern Relationships Lab. Hearing that kind of rejection can spike feelings of anxiety — then fill you with relief when you realize it was a gag. So if you’re sure your date has a good sense of humor, give him or her a little ribbing first: “Oh no, you’re an Aquarius? Shoot, I have a rule about that.” Not only do you get to have an instant inside joke, it sends a subtle message that you’re into your date enough to be comfortable joking about it. Just make sure you don’t tease about something the person’s sensitive about — that’s not flirting; that’s an insult.
Caitlin Ascolese is a freelance writer in New York City.
Quoted: http://yahoo.match.com/y/article.aspx?articleid=10039&TrackingID=526103&BannerID=799141
Thursday, August 04, 2011
What Is Omnipresence?
God's omnipresence means that God is always present with His creation. His creation can never flee from Him or hide their faces from Him. Wherever God's creation is, so is God. This is slightly different from suggesting that God is literally in everything. To suggest that God is literally everywhere further suggests that God is everything. After all, if God were everywhere, it would mean that He is in our chicken sandwiches, in our blood, and in our computers.
This mentality would then suggest that everything is God. That is wrong. The Bible clearly distinguishes between the Creator and the created. This world was created, God was never created. God exists with His creation; He doesn't exist expressly inside of it.
More importantly, God alone is omnipresent. No other being possesses this quality. Satan cannot be everywhere at once, nor can his demons, nor can angels be every present. Only God possesses this unique ability. This attribute of God should give us comfort. He is with us in every trial and circumstance. John MacDuff writes, "In my seasons of sadness and sorrow and loneliness-when other comforts and comforters have failed-how sweet to think, 'My God is here! I am not alone.'"
God loves His creation immeasurably. Because of His great love for us, He always wants to be with us. But His love isn't just limited to loving humanity as a whole, in the same manner that we might love a football team or a type of food. He loves each of us specifically. God doesn't desire a relationship with the species of mankind, but with the individuals who make it up.
Living Life
This mentality would then suggest that everything is God. That is wrong. The Bible clearly distinguishes between the Creator and the created. This world was created, God was never created. God exists with His creation; He doesn't exist expressly inside of it.
More importantly, God alone is omnipresent. No other being possesses this quality. Satan cannot be everywhere at once, nor can his demons, nor can angels be every present. Only God possesses this unique ability. This attribute of God should give us comfort. He is with us in every trial and circumstance. John MacDuff writes, "In my seasons of sadness and sorrow and loneliness-when other comforts and comforters have failed-how sweet to think, 'My God is here! I am not alone.'"
God loves His creation immeasurably. Because of His great love for us, He always wants to be with us. But His love isn't just limited to loving humanity as a whole, in the same manner that we might love a football team or a type of food. He loves each of us specifically. God doesn't desire a relationship with the species of mankind, but with the individuals who make it up.
Living Life
Why We Can Bear Sorrow
Why can we bear sorrow? Because God is always with us. Now, everyone has been sad at tone point or another. We might be sad when we get in trouble at school, or if our eleven-year-old pet turtle suddenly die. Sadness comes for a variety of reasons, and God will be there for us when we are sad.
Still, sadness, just like happiness, is very circumstantial. It is easy to move from being mad to happy to sad in a relatively short amount of time, with relatively small and insignificant triggers. Sorrow is different from simply being sad. Sorrow is an incredibly deep distress that impacts the very core of who we are.
God is always with us, even in our sorrow! In our pain, God is not only right there with us, but He weeps with us. Furthermore, as painful as sorrow is, it still can bring purpose to our lives. Gardiner Spring says, "It is the mission of sorrow therefore to take the mourner by the land, and lead him to the throne of heavenly grace.... These sharp distresses would be overwhelming but for free access to the Hearer of prayer. We can bear them, if God is with us."
Everything that exists, exists because God created it: this includes sorrow. Sorrow is an emotion that most people would probably rather not have to experience. Nonetheless, it powerfully brings us back to the God of power and grace. Sorrow forces us to come humbly before our God who declares, "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted" (Matt. 5:4).
Living Life
Still, sadness, just like happiness, is very circumstantial. It is easy to move from being mad to happy to sad in a relatively short amount of time, with relatively small and insignificant triggers. Sorrow is different from simply being sad. Sorrow is an incredibly deep distress that impacts the very core of who we are.
God is always with us, even in our sorrow! In our pain, God is not only right there with us, but He weeps with us. Furthermore, as painful as sorrow is, it still can bring purpose to our lives. Gardiner Spring says, "It is the mission of sorrow therefore to take the mourner by the land, and lead him to the throne of heavenly grace.... These sharp distresses would be overwhelming but for free access to the Hearer of prayer. We can bear them, if God is with us."
Everything that exists, exists because God created it: this includes sorrow. Sorrow is an emotion that most people would probably rather not have to experience. Nonetheless, it powerfully brings us back to the God of power and grace. Sorrow forces us to come humbly before our God who declares, "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted" (Matt. 5:4).
Living Life
Tuesday, August 02, 2011
Hidden God
God declares that He is always with us. He is with us wherever we go. If we go to Antarctica, He is there. If we go to the moon, God is still there. God is in the deepest, darkest caves, and He is in the farthest reaches of space.
Even so, just because God is everywhere does not mean we constantly feel His presence. There are obviously times in our lives when we really do feel the very presence of God, perhaps during worship or times of intense prayer. But just as there are moments when we feel His presence, there are moments when we do not.
When we don't feel the presence of God, is it just because we are running away from Him? Is it because we are in the midst of rebellion against God, or is it because we are lost in the fleshly desires of sin? The answer needs to be a clear and resounding "NO!" Sometimes God hides Himself from us.
James Smith writes: "God hides himself. To hide is to conceal his beauty, to veil his face...so that we cannot perceive his purpose, or understand his designs in his dispensations. The Lord sometimes hides himself from us in times of trouble, in season of sickness, and when suffering from painful disappointment. This he does - to prove us - to improve us - and to instruct us."
But this does not mean that God has abandoned us. God is always with us, even when He conceals Himself. Even when we can't feel God, we still need to cry out to Him. God will not hide Himself forever.
Living Life
Even so, just because God is everywhere does not mean we constantly feel His presence. There are obviously times in our lives when we really do feel the very presence of God, perhaps during worship or times of intense prayer. But just as there are moments when we feel His presence, there are moments when we do not.
When we don't feel the presence of God, is it just because we are running away from Him? Is it because we are in the midst of rebellion against God, or is it because we are lost in the fleshly desires of sin? The answer needs to be a clear and resounding "NO!" Sometimes God hides Himself from us.
James Smith writes: "God hides himself. To hide is to conceal his beauty, to veil his face...so that we cannot perceive his purpose, or understand his designs in his dispensations. The Lord sometimes hides himself from us in times of trouble, in season of sickness, and when suffering from painful disappointment. This he does - to prove us - to improve us - and to instruct us."
But this does not mean that God has abandoned us. God is always with us, even when He conceals Himself. Even when we can't feel God, we still need to cry out to Him. God will not hide Himself forever.
Living Life
Monday, August 01, 2011
God's Presence Renews Us
God has called us to be sober minded. 1 Peter 1:13 says, "Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming."
This is not a command to be strictly serious, but rather is a call to clear thinking. There are many reasons why we might not be clear thinkers - drugs, lust, greed, and rage, just to name a few- but these scenarios typically anyway. There is a strong correlation between our mind, sin, and sobriety. Simply put, people fall into sin when they are not thinking clearly.
God's presence is all around us, whether or not we realize it. He's there when we sin, and He's there when we have victory over sin. Dwelling on the fact that God's presence is all around us is a sobering though in and of itself. Don fortner says, "Everything I think, say, and do is done in the immediate presence of God. This fact should cause me to be filled with reverence and godly fear and with great joy too. God is present everywhere to save, preserve, and comfort his elect."
God is always with us, but this isn't something that should make us feel condemned. God desires us to live our lives fully, and not under the heavy yoke or burden of despair or legalistic religion. Living in the presence of God renews and refreshes us; it's a blessing, not a burden.
Living Life
This is not a command to be strictly serious, but rather is a call to clear thinking. There are many reasons why we might not be clear thinkers - drugs, lust, greed, and rage, just to name a few- but these scenarios typically anyway. There is a strong correlation between our mind, sin, and sobriety. Simply put, people fall into sin when they are not thinking clearly.
God's presence is all around us, whether or not we realize it. He's there when we sin, and He's there when we have victory over sin. Dwelling on the fact that God's presence is all around us is a sobering though in and of itself. Don fortner says, "Everything I think, say, and do is done in the immediate presence of God. This fact should cause me to be filled with reverence and godly fear and with great joy too. God is present everywhere to save, preserve, and comfort his elect."
God is always with us, but this isn't something that should make us feel condemned. God desires us to live our lives fully, and not under the heavy yoke or burden of despair or legalistic religion. Living in the presence of God renews and refreshes us; it's a blessing, not a burden.
Living Life
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