October 30, 2013

It's a basic truth that many can attest to: God provides. Despite circumstances and resources, our Father provides for the needs of His people. And, there is one powerful passage that provides real life examples of amazing provision. 

"The word of the LORD came to him, saying, 'Go away from here and turn eastward, and hide yourself by the brook Cherith, which is east of the Jordan. It shall be that you will drink of the brook, and I have commanded the ravens to provide for you there.' So he went and did according to the word of the LORD, for he went and lived by the brook Cherith,which is east of the Jordan. The ravens brought him bread and meat in the morning and bread and meat in the evening, and he would drink from the brook." (1 Kings 17.2-6)

During an extreme drought, God graciously and miraculously provides daily food and water for His faithful servant, Elijah. But, the story gets even more interesting: "It happened after a while that the brook dried up, because there was no rain in the land. Then the word of the LORD came to him, saying,  'Arise, go to Zarephath, which belongs to Sidon, and stay there; behold, I have commanded a widow there to provide for you.' " (1 Kings 17.7-9)

As the story unfolds, we learn about this widow, who is down to her last bit of flour and oil. Faithful in following Elijah's instructions, the promise is made: "For thus says the LORD God of Israel, 'The bowl of flour shall not be exhausted, nor shall the jar of oil be empty, until the day that the LORD sends rain on the face of the earth.' " (1 Kings 17.14)

Were this whole narrative some allegorical story illustrating a truth, we might view it differently. Fact is, it's a factual account of real people and circumstances. It DID happen, and serves as a precedent for an unfolding miracle even to this day. Yahweh God continues to meet the needs of His people.

Rarely is there a time in which some form of hardship or crisis does not come to God's people. Gas prices escalate. Or food prices. Or insurance premiums. Wages are cut. Unemployment suddenly threatens. Yet, amidst an ever unrolling set of challenges, God's steady hand always provides. 

Perhaps we have taken for granted His provision. As those living amidst a prosperous culture, it's much too easy to view the provision and miss the Provider. That which we have is truly a gift, and should provoke profound gratitude for the Giver.

God provides. Whether in seemingly subtle ways in times of prosperity, or in dramatic ways in times of crisis, may we ever be aware, and eternally grateful.

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2013
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/ 

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October 29, 2013

We'll never discover the right answers if we don't begin by asking the right questions. Problem is, the right questions are rarely asked. 

Consider this key question: "What advantage does man have in all his work Which he does under the sun?" (Ecclesiastes 1.3) The question is well framed against the backdrop of life's routine. "A generation goes and a generation comes, But the earth remains forever. Also, the sun rises and the sun sets; And hastening to its place it rises there again. Blowing toward the south, Then turning toward the north, The wind continues swirling along; And on its circular courses the wind returns. All the rivers flow into the sea, Yet the sea is not full. To the place where the rivers flow, There they flow again." (Ecclesiastes 1.4-7)

There is a seemingly timeless cycle in nature, and we live out our finite lives within that cycle. Generations of people are born, live, and eventually die, and the cycle of nature continues. From all appearances, "That which has been is that which will be, And that which has been done is that which will be done. So there is nothing new under the sun." (Ecclesiastes 1.9). So, the pressing, urgent question is, WHAT'S THE POINT? What is the meaning of my limited life? What advantage do I have in what I do, which is little different from what others have done, and future generations will do?

Mindless routine is the enemy of a life of purpose. So many people jump into "the cycle of life", and never carefully consider their lives from an eternal perspective. We go to school, work, raise families, and plan for retirement. We then travel, enjoy a life of leisure, and eventually die. But, do we live life deliberately - investing in evangelism, and discipleship of others? Do we see the value of Christian service, discover our greatest area of effectiveness, and jump in wholeheartedly? Thankfully, my life has been immensely enriched by those who invested in me, and mentored me. But, am I faithful in doing the same? A key question for each of us to ask!

The writer of Ecclesiastes frames his own life against the larger backdrop of life's cycle. That perspective alone leads him to repeatedly conclude that "All is vanity" (i.e., Ecclesiastes 1.1) Such will be our conclusion as well, until we step even further away, and consider the Creator of life's cycle. Only then can we conclude that faithfulness to our Father, and partnership with Him in His work, is all that truly matters.

A wise man challenges us to ask key questions, such as: Why am I doing what I am doing? How can my life have the greatest purpose and impact in the limited time I have as a mortal being? Asking the right questions are key in discovering the right answers.

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2013
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

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Monday musings

He said "quickly", not necessarily "soon". There is a big difference.

"And behold, I am coming quickly ... Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to render to every man according to what he has done ... Yes, I am coming quickly." (Revelation 22.7, 12, 20)

It might be cause for doubt if the word, "soon", had been used by Jesus. After all, it's been over two thousand years, and He still hasn't returned (although our view of time is considerably different from His). But, He said, quickly" - with great suddenness. When the day and moment comes, it will be with the suddenness of "the twinkling of an eye" (1 Corinthians 15.52).

Based on Jesus' own teaching, there is indication of an extended period of time before His return (Matthew 24.42-51). But, the priority is always to be alert and expectant. Given our own mortality, His return could be much sooner than we realize.

A Second Coming people live their lives differently than other people do. They realize every moment really does matter. Decisions carry the weight of eternity. There is urgency to how we live, and what we do. For all we know, we could be a mere heartbeat from the grave, and then our next conscious moment would be that of the resurrection and His Second Coming. That thought frames the urgency of this day's needs and priorities. 

Students of Bible prophecy often point to a list of prophecies to be fulfilled before Christ can return. Regardless of what is understood of prophetic events, there is ambiguity even for the best of scholars. As someone has said, Bible prophecies are signposts pointing into a great fog - a general direction can be noticed, but details are obscured. 

Where do things stand between you and the Coming Christ? Have you conversed personally today? Have you - and are you daily - surrendered to Him as Savior and Lord? Are you about His business (Matthew 6.33)? This moment offers each of us the opportunity to reflect, and redirect. 

Jesus left a universal directive: "What I say to you I say to all, 'Be on the alert!' " (Mark 13.37) This is the day to be attentive to key spiritual priorities, and the prompting of our Coming Savior. Live expectantly. Live faithfully. Live for Him.

"Amen.Come, Lord Jesus. The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen." (Revelation 22.20-21)

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2013
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

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October 23, 2013

The reward for the difficult, uphill hike is the view from the top. Anyone who has ever hiked up a mountain trail can attest to this. In many ways, the journey through life is that challenging mountain hike, but here is the view from the top:

"Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth passed away, and there is no longer any sea. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne, saying, "Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He will dwell among them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them, and He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away." (Revelation 21:1-4)

Someone has said that God's promise is not new things, but all things made new. That's exactly what we see from the mountaintop, as revealed in the Book of Revelation - a renewed earth and heavens, renewal through resurrection life, renewed relationships with our Father, His Son, and each other. 

I've read those hopeful words at grave sites more times than I can count. My purpose in reading these words has always been to help those walking through the valley of the shadow of death to be able - amidst their grief - to ascend the mountain of hope, and catch of glimpse of this breathtaking scene. 

When we know how beautiful the view is from the top of the mountain, the more determined we are to overcome hardships on the trail to the top. And that's exactly what the closing pictures in Revelation do for us - provide the incentive to be an overcomer.

"He who overcomes will inherit these things, and I will be his God and he will be My son." (Revelation 21:7)

Keep climbing. The kingdom trail often twists and turns, and presents sudden challenges and difficulties. But, know where it is headed. Keep the mountaintop view in mind. Ultimately renewal awaits the overcomer. The reward is worth the rigors of the climb. 

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2013
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

Amazon ebook devotional - http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GW

October 23, 2013

The reward for the difficult, uphill hike is the view from the top. Anyone who has ever hiked up a mountain trail can attest to this. In many ways, the journey through life is that challenging mountain hike, but here is the view from the top:

"Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth passed away, and there is no longer any sea. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, made ready as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne, saying, "Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He will dwell among them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them, and He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away." (Revelation 21:1-4)

Someone has said that God's promise is not new things, but all things made new. That's exactly what we see from the mountaintop, as revealed in the Book of Revelation - a renewed earth and heavens, renewal through resurrection life, renewed relationships with our Father, His Son, and each other. 

I've read those hopeful words at grave sites more times than I can count. My purpose in reading these words has always been to help those walking through the valley of the shadow of death to be able - amidst their grief - to ascend the mountain of hope, and catch of glimpse of this breathtaking scene. 

When we know how beautiful the view is from the top of the mountain, the more determined we are to overcome hardships on the trail to the top. And that's exactly what the closing pictures in Revelation do for us - provide the incentive to be an overcomer.

"He who overcomes will inherit these things, and I will be his God and he will be My son." (Revelation 21:7)

Keep climbing. The kingdom trail often twists and turns, and presents sudden challenges and difficulties. But, know where it is headed. Keep the mountaintop view in mind. Ultimately renewal awaits the overcomer. The reward is worth the rigors of the climb. 

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2013
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

Amazon ebook devotional - http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GW

October 22, 2013

How will generations to come reflect on our lives and times? Will they consider that we were faithful to the faith we professed? Such questions are good motivation for today's priorities. 

"Blessed be the LORD, who has given rest to His people Israel, according to all that He promised; not one word has failed of all His good promise, which He promised through Moses His servant. May the LORD our God be with us, as He was with our fathers; may He not leave us or forsake us, that He may incline our hearts to Himself, to walk in all His ways and to keep His commandments and His statutes and His ordinances, which He commanded our fathers. And may these words of mine, with which I have made supplication before the LORD, be near to theLORD our God day and night, that He may maintain the cause of His servant and the cause of His people Israel, as each day requires, so that all the peoples of the earth may know that the LORD is God; there is no one else. Let your heart therefore be wholly devoted to the LORD our God, to walk in His statutes and to keep His commandments, as at this day." (1 Kings 8.56-61)

King Solomon, on the occasion of the dedication of the temple, recounted God's faithfulness to His people, and their past faithfulness to Him. He appealed to the present generation to be obedient and faithful, so that Yahweh God would maintain the cause of His people "as each day requires, so that all the peoples of the earth may know that the LORD is God; there is no one else." 

The baton has been passed to us from a previous generation, and the priorities remain: faithfulness to our Father, so that He might sustain us in our cause to demonstrate and declare that He alone is God. This important legacy is vital to our generation, and the ones to come. 

Just today I've been reminded afresh that faithfulness is to be cultivated in unseen ways. Waiting before the LORD in silence, with a sincere yearning to be attentive to His voice and impulses, is key to faithfulness. Mentally battling the noisy and distracting thoughts in our minds, in order to better know and hear the Father, is necessary if we are to be faithful. And then, seeking to "carry the conversation" throughout today's activities allows us to be more aware of His specific direction and prompting for how He would have us live for Him. 

How will the next generation speak of our generation? That is being determined by how we live today. May we be found faithful - by them, and by Him.

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2013
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

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Monday musings

The need and priority of the moment. Too much energy is exerted worrying about the future, and contemplating the past. The great need is to live in the moment.

"Two things I ask of you, O LORD; do not refuse me before I die: Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, 'Who is the LORD?' Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God. (Proverbs 30.7-9 NIV)

The writer of Proverbs had two pressing life priority requests of Yahweh God: keep him from deception, and provide what was needed in the moment. He wisely saw the danger of the extremes of poverty and wealth, and desired to avoid both. His appeal for daily provision is echoed in the model prayer, taught by Jesus to His disciples, to "give us this day our daily bread" (Matthew 6.11). Jesus further stated, "So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." (Matthew 6.34) Yesterday cannot be changed, and tomorrow cannot yet be lived. The priorities and needs of the moment are our important focus.

I, for one, easily borrow tomorrow's troubles. The future often appears uncertain and threatening, and commands too much of my attention. Ironically, too much focus on the future can overshadow important decisions today that will affect it. Better to live wisely in the moment - trusting in the daily provision of the LORD - than to be anxious about tomorrow. 

What opportunity and need is before you this very moment? What is your Father impressing upon you as to action and decisions to be made? This moment is the time to be responsive, and obedient. And, this is the moment to trust in the LORD's provision. The very fact that we are here today is testimony to His provision yesterday. He has been faithful every single day of our lives, or we would not exist or have our needs met today. His track record is tremendous cause for confidence and faith in the moment!

Deception can derail our lives, as well as the extremes of poverty and wealth. We do well to pray in harmony with the writer of Proverbs, and seek the needs and priorities of the moment.

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2013
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

Amazon ebook devotional - http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GW

October 15, 2013

We live each day as though it were THAT day. Factoring in the uncertainty of fully understanding Bible prophecy, and our own mortality, THAT day is always imminent. Knowing that a definite appointment exists on His divine calendar is enough to motivate us daily to a state of readiness and expectancy.

The fact of the event is well established in numerous Bible passages, but perhaps none so clear as this one: "This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven." (Acts 1.11)

The thrilling description of that event is best described in this powerful passage:

"And I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse, and He who sat on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and wages war. His eyes are a flame of fire, and on His head are many diadems; and He has a name written on Him which no one knows except Himself. He is clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God. And the armies which are in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean, were following Him on white horses. From His mouth comes a sharp sword, so that with it He may strike down the nations, and He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He treads the wine press of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty. And on His robe and on His thigh He has a name written, "KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS." (Revelation 19:11-16)

Few believers can read this amazing passage without becoming misty-eyed and emotional. This is the goal and dream we strain to see every day of our mortal existence. It is the event of events. It marks the end of all dark days, and the beginning of life we can scarcely imagine. It is our highest hope, and eager expectation. And, when seen most clearly through eyes of faith, it is the energizing force for purposeful daily living. This coming great event reminds us that this day and moment are pregnant with opportunity and potential. What we do and how we live right now is of immense value in light of what we confidently expect.

The coming victor offers victory today when we share in partnership with Him. The One who is The Word of God beckons to us to saturate our minds and thinking with the written Word of God so that the Spirit of God can best work within us. Tomorrow's ultimate victory can be today's triumph over that which would otherwise defeat us. 

With a watchful eye on the sky, live life today expectantly, faithfully, and fully through Him who is King of Kings, and Lord of Lords.

©Steve Taylor, 2013
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

Amazon ebook devotional - http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GW

Monday musings

Significant places and times. For some it was a special service at a camp. It happened for others at a Sunday worship service. Still others recall a breakthrough while driving to work, or sitting in a room in their home. A wide variety of settings and times, but they all had this in common: it was the exceptional moment when the LORD God became very real and personal. 

"It happened that when the priests came from the holy place, the cloud filled the house of the LORD, so that the priests could not stand to minister because of the cloud, for the glory of the LORD filled the house of the LORD." (1 Kings 8.10-11)

King Solomon built a magnificent temple, and dedicated it for the presence of Yahweh God. On the occasion of its dedication, God manifested His presence and glory in such a way that the temple priest were unable to serve. For all who were present, it truly was a life-changed encounter with the Eternal One.

The Maker of the universe is certainly not confined to buildings and places, but does choose to manifest His presence in certain places and times. Some have been blessed with such an encounter; others live in hope and anticipation of such. Whenever and wherever such encounters come, those present are made more keenly aware of the fact the a living God exists, and is active in lives and events.

In this era, no one will have a genuine encounter with the Father except through His Son ("no one comes to the Father but through Me." John 14.6) The opportunity continually exists for an encounter with the risen Christ, who will reveal His Father to us. 

I'm lately reminded of a need and desire for that encounter. And, I'm reminded that it will likely not happen unless I'm prepared for it. The Bible and prayer are the avenues through which such an encounter will come. Reading for relationship, instead of merely reading for information, can make a world of difference. And, dedicating time and place for quietness conducive to such an encounter, is also key. We can be sure that such an encounter will not come amidst the noise and news of this age, but rather in the quiet prayer closet. 

I'm convinced that the need of the hour is for the people of God to periodically and deliberately retreat from the cacophony of today's modern telecommunications in order to renew intimacy with our Messiah, and His Father. In the absence of such times, Spirit life will wither and eventually die.

My prayer for us today is that we take the necessary steps to best position ourselves for a life-changing encounter.

©Steve Taylor, 2013
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

October 9, 2013

More than one person has dreamed of being given a divine blank check. If the God of all possibilities offered anything, the choices would be mind-boggling. And, the temptation to choose selfishly would be tremendous. But, this is no hypothetical situation; it was a very real scenario for an ancient king.

"In Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream at night; and God said, 'Ask what you wish me to give you.' " (1 Kings 3:5)

I've always chosen to allow a night of sleep before making big decisions (much to the frustration of car salesmen). In Solomon's case, the biggest decision of all came during his sleep. Reasoning out this offer in his dream-like state (verses 6-9), Solomon concluded that discerning wisdom was his greatest need, and thus his request.

Borrowing an analogy from a modern game show, God gave him what was behind door number two and three, as well as door number one:

"Because you have asked this thing and have not asked for yourself long life, nor have asked riches for yourself, nor have you asked for the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself discernment to understand justice, behold, I have done according to your words ... I have also given you what you have not asked, both riches and honor, so that there will not be any among the kings like you all your days. If you walk in My ways, keeping My statutes and commandments, as your father David walked, then I will prolong your days." (1 Kings 3.11-14)

God's gracious and unexpected offer reminds me of a similar offer made by His Son: "seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." (Matthew 6.33). Make the main thing the priority, and secondary matters will be supplied.

Without question, our Father is well able to abundantly supply beyond our wildest imagination. The key is to make His priorities our priorities, in order for His abundant resources to follow. So, some challenging questions are before us today: If I partnered with my Father in work that unquestionably has His favor and blessing, what might result? What "kingdom project" that I were to involve myself with would prosper under His guiding hand? 

Carefully and prayerfully considering these important questions could very well redirect our lives, and place us at the very center of His most abundant blessings. May we imagine, dream, and commit to greater partnership in kingdom work, and reap His bountiful blessings in so doing.

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2013
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

October 8, 2013

It's a simple but important truth. Authentic partnership reaps great benefits, and nowhere is it better stated than here:

"Iron sharpens iron, So one man sharpens another." (Proverbs 27.17)

I am forever indebted to good friends and confidantes' who have been - and are - invaluable "sharpening steel". These are friends who care enough to challenge, clarify, and even confront. These are friends who unquestionably have my best interests at heart, and vice versa. We share in an unspoken covenant for the welfare of each other. 

Relationships can be risky. Who hasn't been betrayed or disappointed by someone close? But, the risks are well worth the rewards, when authentic sharing takes place. 

Sadly, we live in an age of superficial relationships, and I suspect God's family are not immune. There is a general expectation that we all should be living "the victorious life", and to admit anything less isn't "spiritual". Well, it's time we faced the fact that we all are fellow strugglers, and desperately need the "sharpening" of someone willing to be equally honest. There is no value in living behind the facade' of "victorious living", when true help is available in an authentic relationship.

If you have a "sharpening steel" relationship(s), than you are greatly blessed. If not, seek to initiate one. We'll never be the sharpest knife in the drawer without one. The Christian life was never meant to be a solo act.

May we rejoice today in the "sharpening steel" relationship(s) we have, or be led to one we truly need.

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2013
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

Monday musings

It's news no one wants to hear. Military aggression. War. Famine. Disease. Persecution. Natural disasters. The unleashing of such horrendous calamities is enough to terrorize even the bravest soul. But, it's not pain without a purpose. Consider:

"Then the kings of the earth and the great men and the commanders and the rich and the strong and every slave and free man hid themselves in the caves and among the rocks of the mountains; and they said to the mountains and to the rocks, 'Fall on us and hide us from the presence of Him who sits on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb; for the great day of their wrath has come, and who is able to stand?' " (Revelation 6.15-17)

The worst of calamities at least invoke an acknowledgement from the world's powerful elite. Apparently, there is recognition that these events are under the jurisdiction of Yahweh God, and His Son, the Lamb ("the day of THEIR wrath"). Sadly, that acknowledgement does not appear to come with saving belief.

Unfolding tragic and disastrous events easily dishearten many. The daily news is almost more than one can bear if not framed against the backdrop of true reality. For those willing to see and hear, the true story behind the news is that God ever reigns sovereign, and has destined the events of this age to climax in the appearing of His Son, and His kingdom. To lose sight of the ultimate outcome is a sure recipe for depression and pessimism!

A seven-sealed scroll - representing the future - in the hands of the Lamb of God, is a reassuring picture (Revelation 6.1). As each seal is broken, and the ominous events unfold, we are drawn to remember that they unfold under the power and authority of God's Son. As those who know His Son, our focus is not so much on what unfolds, as on the One who directs their unfolding. 

This day will not be without tragedy, disaster, and suffering. But, through eyes of faith, we see this day overshadowed by That Day.

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2013
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

October 3, 2013

There is book smarts, and there is street smarts, goes the saying. Some lessons are learned in the classroom; others are learned through life experiences. And, wise is the person who learns the value of integrity in dealing with others. From the vantage point of God-given wisdom, the writer of Proverbs sees the foolishness of dishonest words:

"He cuts off his own feet and drinks violence Who sends a message by the hand of a fool ... Like a madman who throws Firebrands, arrows and death, So is the man who deceives his neighbor, And says, 'Was I not joking?' For lack of wood the fire goes out, And where there is no whisperer, contention quiets down. Like charcoal to hot embers and wood to fire, So is a contentious man to kindle strife ... He who hates disguises it with his lips, But he lays up deceit in his heart. When he speaks graciously, do not believe him, For there are seven abominations in his heart."  (Proverbs 26.6,18-21,24-25)

In many ways, we are our words. We are assessed by others according to how accurately and lovingly we convey information and opinions. More is written in Proverbs about words and speech than any other topic. A wise person knows that his/her character is built upon the use of words. 

We live in an age of diminished word value. Business transactions done by a handshake and verbal commitment were long ago replaced by reams of legal documents. Truth in advertising is more slogan than reality. Solemn verbal vows are easily undone in the courtroom. 

Proverbs 18.21 says it well: "Death and life are in the power of the tongue". Wise is the person who sees the power of speech, and wisely wields that power in conversation and business transactions. May we today be more aware of the tremendous power of speech, and seek God's Holy Spirit to guide our speech so as to be a blessing to all we encounter today.

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2013
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

October 2, 2013

What a tragedy, if definitive information about the future was available, but inaccessible. We would react as one man did: "Then I began to weep greatly because no one was found worthy to open the book or to look into it" (Revelation 5.4)

The invaluable information about the future was contained in the form of a seven-sealed scroll, and that was someone able to access it:

"Worthy are You to take the book and to break its seals; for You were slain, and purchased for God with Your blood men from every tribe and tongue and people and nation. You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to our God; and they will reign upon the earth." (Revelation 5.9,10)

On the day this vital information was accessed by none other than the resurrected Christ, a heavenly chorus struck up the band, so to speak, and sang this brand new song. This was followed by a song sung by a massive angelic choir:

" 'Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and riches and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing.' And every created thing which is in heaven and on the earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all things in them, I heard saying, 'To Him who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb, be blessing and honor and glory and dominion forever and ever.' " (Revelation 5.12-13)

Knowledge of what is to come is securely in the hand of our risen, ascended, and victorious Savior. He is worthy, as is our matchless Creator and Father. All is settled, and all is secure with our matchless Father and Son team. As such, grateful praise and song should resound from the people of God.

Music comes in a wide variety of forms and styles. What matters, ultimately, is not the style, but the substance. A "new song" ought to ring out daily from God's people who are daily grateful for unfathomable grace and blessings. That "song" can take the form of testimony, prayer, poem, or actual music. What matters is not the medium, but the message expressed.

Cliche' as it sounds, it is ultimately true: I don't know what the future holds, but I know Who holds the future. The risen Christ has received the future from His Father, and holds it securely. He is entrusted with its oversight. As His child, He holds you and your future. Whatever may come, it a comfort and encouragement to know whose we are, and where we are - securely held in His strong right hand. That's good enough for me.

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2013
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/