Hail Record Offers a Grim Reminder of Prophecy

July 31, 2010

Eddie Judgment, Last Days, Rescue, Salvation Leave a comment

“Officially, where records have been kept, this will be the U.S. record and world record for weight. So very impressive,” Mike Fowle of the National Weather Service said.

An incredible story about the recent world record set on the size and weight of a hail stone.  If you are interested in the news account you can go here. A YouTube documentary is here.

What I am writing about is the account from Revelation which reminds us of the catastrophic conditions what will be prevailing.  It is toward the end of the tribulation period when one of the judgments inflicted on earth will be hail:

[The Seventh Bowl]
[17] The seventh angel poured out his bowl into the air, and a loud voice came out of the temple, from the throne, saying, “It is done!” [18] And there were flashes of lightning, rumblings, peals of thunder, and a great earthquake such as there had never been since man was on the earth, so great was that earthquake. [19] The great city was split into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell, and God remembered Babylon the great, to make her drain the cup of the wine of the fury of his wrath. [20] And every island fled away, and no mountains were to be found. [21] And great hailstones, about one hundred pounds each, fell from heaven on people; and they cursed God for the plague of the hail, because the plague was so severe. (Revelation 16:17-21 ESV)

What is even more tragic than the occurrence of the hail is the fact that rather than repent, the people will curse God.

There is hope!  Christ came into this world to give an opportunity to escape judgment and have a living hope.

“because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved. For the Scripture says, “Everyone who believes in him will not be put to shame.” For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him. For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:9-13 ESV)

Far Better!

July 30, 2010

Eddie Intercession, Promises, Salvation, Savior Leave a comment

Now the point in what we are saying is this: we have such a high priest, one who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, a minister in the holy places, in the true tent that the Lord set up, not man. For every high priest is appointed to offer gifts and sacrifices; thus it is necessary for this priest also to have something to offer. Now if he were on earth, he would not be a priest at all, since there are priests who offer gifts according to the law. They serve a copy and shadow of the heavenly things. For when Moses was about to erect the tent, he was instructed by God, saying, “See that you make everything according to the pattern that was shown you on the mountain.” (Hebrews 8:1-5 ESV)

When we consider the system God instituted with Israel in the OT–the sacrificial system, the high priest and the covenant–one marvels today how incomplete it really was AND was intended to be.

Today, Jesus is our High Priest.  He is at the right hand of throne of the Majesty in heaven, “a minister in the holy places, in the true tent (or tabernacle) that the Lord set up, not man” (vv. 1-2). AMEN!

Our High Priest, needs no sacrifice offered for Himself, as the high priest of old had to.  Christ is far better mediator because His work on Calvary has provided a far better covenant.  The promises of this far better covenant that we have today are stated in verses 8-12.

The first covenant had faults (because of sinful humanity).  Thus the need for a new covenant.  The new covenant was not plan B.  This was in fact God’s plan A to show the short-comings of plan B (old covenant)!

Meditate on the promises of the New Covenant made possible by our High Priest who is our mediator and our sacrifices–so underserved by us!

New Look–New Address Coming in August

July 27, 2010

Eddie Uncategorized Leave a comment

We’re excited about some changes and expansions coming to this blog beginning in August.  The first thing you will notice is the new look!  You will also be going to a new address!  That address will be announced this weekend.

When Blind-Sided: “Behold Your God!”

July 27, 2010

Eddie Comfort, God as Father, God is Sovereign, God's Power, God's Word, Hope, Perspective Leave a comment

Summarizing the lessons learned from Isaiah 40,  I am reminded that when I am blind-sided by troubles, that I need to “Behold my God!”  He is the God of might, He will be my shepherd, He will gather me in His arms and carry me next to His heart and with tenderness lead me.

I am reminded to come back the God’s Word the the Author seems distant or uninterested.  The Word will clear up my stinkin’ thinkin’.  Who else can handle the troubles I face? Only One!  May I cast may cares on Him.  Let me invite you to do the same today.  (1 Peter 5:7)

A Minister: Sober, Suffering and Serving

July 26, 2010

Eddie Commitment, God is Sovereign, God's Word, Happiness, Obedience, Persecution, Perspective, Purpose, Service, Strength, Truth Leave a comment

As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.
(2 Timothy 4:5 ESV)

Second Timothy is part of what is called the Pastoral Epistles (1 Timothy, 2 Timothy and Titus).  Although it may be considered books to be read just for the preacher/pastor, one mest remember that all scripture is given to all of us and there will be some principles that we all can get from the teachings within these books.

Let’s begin considering the admonition Paul makes to Timothy to be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.

Consider ”sober-minded.”  The basic meaning is clear-headed.  It is an imperative.  Thus, we are commanded to be clear-headed.  The NIV translates it “keep your head in all situations.”  This subject could be elaborated on totally by itself, but think of how important it is that we remain clear-headed as we go through our daily lives.  We must have the mind of Christ in all things.  Keep His perspective on our situations, lest we get discouraged and overwhelmed.  Recently I had so many things building up on me, projects to complete, that I began to get foggy in my thinking and discouraged.  I contacted some close people to pray for me and that same day I became clear-headed and got the right perspective on all that needed to be accomplished.  Remember Romans 12:2.  We must be transformed in our *mind* so that we can be sober-minded.  We must make it a point to be in the Word daily so that we can see life’s situations through the eyes of Christ.

The next command is to endure suffering; another imperative.  We are commanded to endure affliction, suffering, evil.  Now remain sober-minded about this command!  We cannot do this in our own strength.  We must let God fight our battles and trust Him to get us through.

Then, do the work of an evangelist.  This is very much directed toward the pastor and his ongoing ministry.  But there is an application to all believers.  We should be ready to share the good news of Jesus Christ at every opportunity.  That is within the scope of the Great Commission and other Biblical teachings.

Finally, fulfill your ministry.  Dear reader, as Paul was commanding Timothy to fulfill his ministry, you and I have a ministry.  We have a purpose ordained and directed by God.  Maybe you have never considered it, but please do.  Consider the talents and gifts God has given you.  The greatest sense of fulfillment in our life is when we are seeking to fulfill our life’s potential for the One who gave us life.  He must be central in our life.  Our purpose must be coincident with His purpose. Purpose in your heart to fulfill your ministry.  Whatever line of work you are in, God has put you there, equipped you to minister — to serve Him.  Have you given that work to Him?  Have you declared, “Lord this work I am doing, I am doing for you!”  ?

Be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.

Great is the LORD! He is Most Worthy of Praise!

July 24, 2010

Eddie God as Creator, God is Sovereign, God's Power, Honor, Intimacy with God, Obedience, Perspective, Praise & Thankfulness, Protection, Purpose, Rescue, Salvation, Service, Sins, Truth, Worship Leave a comment

During the last two months I have meditated on five passages of Scripture.  Three centered around Scripture itself (Psalm 1; Psalm 19 and 2 Timothy 3:1-4:8).  Two focuses on God Himself (Psalm 145 and Isaiah 40).  Next week I have one more meditation from 2 Timothy 4:5-8, but otherwise I will be summarizing the lessons learned and impacts received in this series.  In this post, I want to summarize what I have learned in Psalm 145.  Read Psalm 145 and then reflect with me.  Please go back to previous posts and meditate with me the truths from God’s word about Scripture and Himself from these focus passages.

  • Psalm 145
    • Because of God’s greatness, our praise should be the richest that we can offer.
    • Meditation upon God’s greatness should raise the awareness of my sinfulness and my helplessness while at the same time knowing God is there and delights to help me.  I can turn to Him for forgiveness and deliverance.
    • God is the amazing Great I AM.  He is gracious and merciful; slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.  He is good to all and His mercy covers all that he has made.  And to think He wants to be with me for eternity!
    • Nature’s sounds may very well be the praise lifted up to the Most High God!  The praise of His saints, those who have accepted His Son as Lord of glory and salvation, should share with others the glory and power of God and His mighty deeds.
    • I’ve been reminded of the importance of calling upon the Lord in full honesty about myself and my circumstances.  Noting areas that are my fault. I’m also reminded about my fear and love of God.  Reverencing Him and living an obedient life.
    • I should praise Him for Who He is, not only for what He has done!

1 I will exalt you, my God and King,
and praise your name forever and ever.
2 I will praise you every day;
yes, I will praise you forever.
3 Great is the LORD! He is most worthy of praise!
No one can measure his greatness. (Psalm 145:1-3, NLT)

A Market for Myth

July 23, 2010

Eddie Forgiveness, God's Word, Guidance, Last Days, Truth Leave a comment

[16] All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, [17] that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.
[4:1] I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and his kingdom: [2] preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. [3] For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, [4] and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths. (2 Timothy 3:16-4:4 ESV)

Who is God’s messenger in your church?  Nearly every response will likely be “my preacher” or “my pastor.” Which is the correct response!  What does he think of the Bible?  Is it THE source of his messages from God?  Does he turn to it when offering counsel?  Does he use it when he teaches?  Is he a student of the Word?  If the answer to these questions is yes, thenbased on 1 Timothy 3:17 he is competent and equipped for every good work.
Consider the charge in 4:1-4:  Paul’s charge to Timothy and every messenger of God is to preach the word and be always ready.  Additionally he is charged to reprove, rebuke, and exhort — all with complete patience and teaching.
Paul told Timothy that the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching but will look to teachers (and preachers) to satisfy their own desires (what they want to hear).  So this note of prophecy is that these same people will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.
Over the last century we have seen the progression of this wandering off mentioned in verse 4. One can generate a large crowd of people with a message that is riddled with myth.  There are
the seekers of a message that will tickle their ears.  So we must be aware of the reality that a man or woman who can pack out large civic centers are not necessarily presenting a message of truth.  There is a market for myth today.  It was prophesied and we are seeing it fulfilled in our lifetime.
God’s messenger is charged to present the truth of the message which will include a message about sin (reprove and rebuke) as well as more positive messages of promise, hope and comfort (exhorting).
In our self-esteemed-bloated society, we want to avoid the discussion of sin.  Yet, friend, one cannot…I repeat…cannot come to God without dealing with the question of sin in one’s life.  It was the very reason Christ came to die!
But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness. (1 John 1:9)

May My Words and My Heart Be Acceptable

July 20, 2010

Eddie Intimacy with God, Prayer Leave a comment

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be acceptable in your sight,
O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.
(Psalm 19:14 ESV)

This is a favorite passage from the Book of Psalms.  At the end of a prayer meeting with fellow believers when I just could not add anything to what had already been petitioned of God, I have just closed the season of prayer by praying this verse.

I think on what it is saying.  Let’s work backward.

“O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.”   God’s name, LORD:  the I AM, ever-present  with me, His personal name.  He is two things here:  my rock and my redeemer.  He is my rock to stand on when the storms of life rage.  He is the refuge behind whom I can hide when the flaming darts of Satan are directed at me.  As my redeemer He bought me out of the slave-market of sin.  He paid the sin debt and set me free.  I would be in bondage and destined to hell without the work that He did on that old rugged cross.  He came up out of the grave giving me new life and setting me free.

“Words of my mouth”  and “meditation of my heart” are to be acceptable in His sight.

There is a connection between the mouth and the heart.  Jesus said,  “For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks” (Luke 6:45).  What my heart meditates on reflects what I am sincere about.  If it ponders a subject it is giving that subject serious consideration.  So the connection with the mouth and heart are clear here.  May they be acceptable in the sight of the Lord.  God endeavors to communicate to us that he is not as interested in actions (sacrifice) as he is heart devotion!  When I ask, “what is acceptable to God?”  I might try to come up with a list of “religious things” that I have done.  But the true answer is how single is my heart toward Him.  Do my words which proceed out of my lips come from a heart that matches with it?  So both are important.  The words (which come from the heart) and the heart itself and what it meditates on.  Lest I forget, the Lord knows my heart better than I. (Psalm 44:21; Luke 16:15; Acts 15:8; Romans 8:27; 1 John 3:20)

Be Deep Rooted!

July 19, 2010

Eddie Strength Leave a comment

He is like a tree
planted by streams of water
that yields its fruit in its season,
and its leaf does not wither.
In all that he does, he prospers.
(Psalm 1:3 ESV)

A reflection time on verse 3 and what principles can I apply to my life?  The strength of a tree will be in its deep root system.  I have seen some very beautiful trees which have a shallow root system easily topple in a strong wind that did not disturb other trees.  Those roots must go deep and tap into a great moisture source and not depend upon top soil moisture.  This tree described is beside a stream in a geographical area that is typically barren.  So it flourishes!  Its leaves maintain their appearance and do not wither for lack of moisture.

So the lesson to me?  Who do I need to have my roots deep into?  Not the counsel of the wicked.  Rather, the Water of Life, my Lord Jesus.  The storms will come, the droughts my set in and yet I will stand strong in Him and will produce fruit and will not wither!  It is not because of who I am, but in whom I am rooted!

What’s Right, What’s Wrong, How to Get Right, and How to Stay Right

July 17, 2010

Eddie God's Word, Guidance Leave a comment

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, - 2 Ti 3:16 (ESV)

I’ll never forget my experience in a New Testament religion class at Florida State University.  The year was 1975.  One of the requirements for the class was to write a paper on a topic which Paul addressed.  I chose to do a paper on the word and concept of “inspiration” (breathed out) from this text.  I have that paper tucked away in a file box somewhere.  I made a C- on it with plenty of comments in red from the professor.  That summer, under the Lord’s leadership I transfered to a small God-honoring Bible College in Mayfield, KY (now Mid-Continent University) where I presented the very same paper to a professor there and received an A+.  The difference? The professor’s own understanding, I believe.

God’s Word is God-breathed!  God insured that Scripture writers penned exactly what He wanted while maintaining the human author’s personality and style. That makes the Bible profitable in our daily lives.

Here,  the passage tells us that Scripture is profitable for teaching, reproof, correction, and for training in righteousness.  I heard it put this way several years ago and I don’t believe it can be improved upon:

The Bible is sufficient to:

  • Tell us what is right (for teaching).
  • Tell us what is wrong (reproof).
  • Tell us how to get right (correction).
  • Tell us how to stay right (training in righteousness).
“Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” –  Ps 119:105

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