June 30, 2014

If we could clearly glimpse what will be, we could be and do so much more today. That’s always been the theme of these regular writings: experiencing tomorrow’s reality today. 

“Truly I say to you, there are some of those who are standing here who will not taste death until they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom.  Six days later Jesus took with Him Peter and James and John his brother, and led them up on a high mountain by themselves. And He was transfigured before them; and His face shone like the sun, and His garments became as white as light.” (Matthew 16.28-17.2)

Many have been puzzled by this mysterious event called the Transfiguration. Essentially, it was a moment in time in which the coming kingdom broke through for just a moment. This glimpse of future glory, prior to Jesus’ suffering, would encourage and bolster His disciples after they had undergone severe testing. Seeing what would be helped them during the trials of what was. And that is our encouragement and help as well. If we only look at the suffering, heartache, and dissapointment that is life today, we will grow cynical and disallusioned. But, we must lift our eyes beyond that which is, and look closely at that which will be. It is only when we “see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom” that we see life in its truest reality. And, it is then that we are most ready to hear the words, “This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well-pleased; listen to Him!” (Matthew 17.5)

Today will not be perfect for any of us. While some days are better than others, all fall short of the reality to come. The best way to navigate through life’s obstacles today is to better see “the Son of Man coming in His kingdom”. Let this important narrative of His transfiguration capture your imagination. Envision what will be. Sharpen your focus on the King and the kingdom, and attune your hearing to the voice of the Father. May you truly experience tomorrow’s reality today.

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2014
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

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June 25, 2014

We take for granted its value. Nearly every day we are involved with some financial transition, whether great or small. We assume the money we spend, save, and receive has certain value, because its value is an accepted norm in our society. Truth is, it only has worth because of the confidence people place in it. 

Trust should be founded upon that which is trustworthy. Would you trust an aircraft to safely transport you to your destination that appears to be leaking fuel and oil on the tarmac, and has been repaired with multiple rolls of duct tape? Of course not. Trust should be placed in that which is trustworthy.

"My soul waits in silence for God only; From Him is my salvation. He only is my rock and my salvation, My stronghold; I shall not be greatly shaken.” (Psalm 62.1-2)

The Psalmist found his Father to be truly trustworthy, and trusted fully in Him. His trust was resolute; it was God ONLY whom he trusted, and ran to as his stronghold. He concluded, “Once God has spoken; Twice I have heard this: That power belongs to God; And lovingkindness is Yours, O Lord, For You recompense a man according to his work.” (Psalm 62.11-12) The message had been both spoken and verified: God our Father is both powerful and loving, and will deal with each person according to their lifestyle. This is trustworthy truth you can “go to the bank” on.

Where is your trust truly placed? We can quickly and easily say we trust God, as did the Psalmist. But, before we make that hasty assertion, we do well to evaluate the evidence for it. It’s far too easy to misplace trust in other things and people. And, if we honestly can say our trust is misguided and misplaced, there is no better time than now to come to Him who truly is trustworthy. May our confidence and trust be in Him so that we will “not be greatly shaken”.

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2014
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

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June 24, 2014

Philosopher George Santayana is credited for the famous statement, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” While some live a bit too nostalgically for “the good old days”, many press on with life today and disregard the past with its important lessons.

“This is now, beloved, the second letter I am writing to you in which I am stirring up your sincere mind by way of reminder, that you should remember the words spoken beforehand by the holy prophets and the commandment of the Lord and Savior spoken by your apostles.” (2 Peter 3.1-2)

Remember. Return to the authoritative word of God spoken in the past. And, in remembering, avoid serious miscalculations about the present, and future. 

“Know this first of all, that in the last days mockers will come with their mocking, following after their own lusts, and saying, 'Where is the promise of His coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all continues just as it was from the beginning of creation.’ ” (2 Peter 3.3-4)

Remembering will remind us how foolish it is to mock the truth of Christ’s Second Coming, and coming judgement. Peter continues be recounting an important lesson from history: past judgement by water; the flood of Noah’s day (2 Peter 3.5-6). This past cataclysm is precedent for a future one of fire (2 Peter 3.7). The lesson? We do well to remember, and live our lives wisely in light of this future reality. “Since all these things are to be destroyed in this way, what sort of people ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be destroyed by burning, and the elements will melt with intense heat!” (2 Peter 3.11-12)

We cannot live in the past, but we do well to learn from it. Amidst pleasant nostalgic memories are important and sobering lessons and reminders. The routine of the present ought not to lull us into lethargy that ignores God’s coming dramatic intervention. A day is fixed in which He will send His Son back. Are you preparing today for this important coming reality?

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2014
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

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June 23, 2014

Repetition is the surest way to learn and remember that which is important. Athletes continually practice their sport to train themselves, mentally and physically, so they can excel. They same applies to the follower of Christ.

“Therefore, brethren, be all the more diligent to make certain about His calling and choosing you; for as long as you practice these things, you will never stumble; for in this way the entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will be abundantly supplied to you. Therefore, I will always be ready to remind you of these things, even though you already know them, and have been established in the truth which is present with you.” (2 Peter 1.10-12)

Just because we know it doesn’t mean we don’t need to be reminded. Peter, in the previous verses, elaborates on key qualities that need to be incorporated into lifestyle. By making these our focus, we guard against stumbling, and “make certain” His calling us to Himself and the coming kingdom. As Peter says, “ I will always be ready to remind you of these things, even though you already know them, and have been established in the truth which is present with you.” These are issues too important not to repeatedly stress.  

It occurs to me that I’ve been writing these devotional thoughts for over ten years. I’ve covered many of the same scripture passages multiple times. I’ve also served as a pastor for over thirty years, and have preached and taught on texts and topics multiple times. The temptation is to look for the new and the novel, because the rest has been said before; perhaps better and clearer by others. But, like baseball players returning year after year to spring training, repetition is essential to stay sharp on the essentials. And such as it is for the believer: we may have heard it before, but have we come to practice it with such excellence that there isn’t room for improvement? Of course not. Repetition is essential if we are to stay focused on necessary progress.

My personal priority remains the same as Peter’s: “I will always be ready to remind you of these things, even though you already know them”. Scripture truth and directives are far too important to mention and emphasize only a few times. It must be our ongoing focus and passion to return again and again to that which truly builds a life that is set on course for the kingdom of God. 

Repetitively yours for Christ and the kingdom,

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2014
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

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June 17, 2014

Belief determines behavior. Core values dictate how we live. And, it is not until our lifestyle is affected that we can say we truly believe something. 

“Finally then, brethren, we request and exhort you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us instruction as to how you ought to walk and please God (just as you actually do walk), that you excel still more.” (1 Thessalonians 4.1)

Morality and work ethic (verses 3-7, 11-12) are the main lifestyle instruction in view here. Proper sexual behavior, and honest, diligent work characterize the people of God. The proof of belief is how we live; especially in these areas. 

At least as challenging is our lifestyle in response to death. “But we do not want you to be uninformed, brethren, about those who are asleep, so that you will not grieve as do the rest who have no hope.” (1 Thessalonians 4.13) In the darkest hour, our grief is limited and constrained by hope. Tears flow and heartache exists, but hope establishes boundaries that those without it do not know. And, our hope belief becomes a very real help to those in the family of God who are grieving: “Therefore comfort one another with these words.” (1 Thessalonians 4.18)

These lifestyle issues take on greater importance in the “adversarial culture”, as one writer puts it, we live in now. A cynical and even hostile culture is far less concerned with what we say unless there is compelling evidence in how we live. “Show me how you live, and then I’ll consider what you say” is today’s unspoken code. Important as lifestyle has always been in validating faith and belief, it has never been more important in modern times than it is now.

Our culture is not hanging on to every word we say, but it is looking carefully at how we live. May those around us see a consistent lifestyle, and a compelling witness. May how we live open up great opportunities to speak of the truth that drives how we live.

©Steve Taylor, 2014
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

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June 17, 2014

Belief determines behavior. Core values dictate how we live. And, it is not until our lifestyle is affected that we can say we truly believe something. 

“Finally then, brethren, we request and exhort you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us instruction as to how you ought to walk and please God (just as you actually do walk), that you excel still more.” (1 Thessalonians 4.1)

Morality and work ethic (verses 3-7, 11-12) are the main lifestyle instruction in view here. Proper sexual behavior, and honest, diligent work characterize the people of God. The proof of belief is how we live; especially in these areas. 

At least as challenging is our lifestyle in response to death. “But we do not want you to be uninformed, brethren, about those who are asleep, so that you will not grieve as do the rest who have no hope.” (1 Thessalonians 4.13) In the darkest hour, our grief is limited and constrained by hope. Tears flow and heartache exists, but hope establishes boundaries that those without it do not know. And, our hope belief becomes a very real help to those in the family of God who are grieving: “Therefore comfort one another with these words.” (1 Thessalonians 4.18)

These lifestyle issues take on greater importance in the “adversarial culture”, as one writer puts it, we live in now. A cynical and even hostile culture is far less concerned with what we say unless there is compelling evidence in how we live. “Show me how you live, and then I’ll consider what you say” is today’s unspoken code. Important as lifestyle has always been in validating faith and belief, it has never been more important in modern times than it is now.

Our culture is not hanging on to every word we say, but it is looking carefully at how we live. May those around us see a consistent lifestyle, and a compelling witness. May how we live open up great opportunities to speak of the truth that drives how we live.

©Steve Taylor, 2014
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

Amazon ebook & print devotional -http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GW
paperback print copy of book — https://www.createspace.com/4500045

June 17, 2014

Belief determines behavior. Core values dictate how we live. And, it is not until our lifestyle is affected that we can say we truly believe something. 

“Finally then, brethren, we request and exhort you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us instruction as to how you ought to walk and please God (just as you actually do walk), that you excel still more.” (1 Thessalonians 4.1)

Morality and work ethic (verses 3-7, 11-12) are the main lifestyle instruction in view here. Proper sexual behavior, and honest, diligent work characterize the people of God. The proof of belief is how we live; especially in these areas. 

At least as challenging is our lifestyle in response to death. “But we do not want you to be uninformed, brethren, about those who are asleep, so that you will not grieve as do the rest who have no hope.” (1 Thessalonians 4.13) In the darkest hour, our grief is limited and constrained by hope. Tears flow and heartache exists, but hope establishes boundaries that those without it do not know. And, our hope belief becomes a very real help to those in the family of God who are grieving: “Therefore comfort one another with these words.” (1 Thessalonians 4.18)

These lifestyle issues take on greater importance in the “adversarial culture”, as one writer puts it, we live in now. A cynical and even hostile culture is far less concerned with what we say unless there is compelling evidence in how we live. “Show me how you live, and then I’ll consider what you say” is today’s unspoken code. Important as lifestyle has always been in validating faith and belief, it has never been more important in modern times than it is now.

Our culture is not hanging on to every word we say, but it is looking carefully at how we live. May those around us see a consistent lifestyle, and a compelling witness. May how we live open up great opportunities to speak of the truth that drives how we live.

©Steve Taylor, 2014
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

Amazon ebook & print devotional -http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GW
paperback print copy of book — https://www.createspace.com/4500045

June 16, 2014

It is the ultimate this-changes-everything moment. With abrupt suddenness, a new norm replaces all that has been common. A new reality ushers in an entirely new existence, and nothing will be the same from that moment on. And, there will not be the slightest longing for the old order of things, because the new reality will vastly overshadow what has been.

“Behold, I tell you a mystery; we will not all sleep, but we will all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet; for the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.” (1 Corinthians 15.51-52)

The precise moment of this amazing transformation is uncertain, but its reality is not. Almost two thousands years since these words were penned, it has not yet happened, and it might even be another two millennia until its fulfillment. But, the passing of time does not diminish the reality of the event. The fact remains that it WILL occur, and with great suddenness. Faster than you can blink an eye, every dead and living believer will be transformed from a body of dust to one of unimaginable perfection. 

The uncertainty as to the time of this great event is the ever-present motivation for lifestyle. “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 15.58) The fickle and ever changing circumstances of life ought not to greatly shake or disturb us. We adapt and adjust to the next economic crisis, change in health condition, job change, and family challenge. Never losing sight of this greatest of all events that overshadows all, we “stay the course”, and serve gratefully and generously. We live and serve knowing that a great trumpet blast can suddenly transform today into a bright tomorrow. 

With the passing of time, it is easy for a certain degree of cynicism and skepticism to cloud hope. This seemingly too-good-to-be-true notion of resurrection and immortality can appear more like fantasy than reality. Can dead people truly live again? Can this decaying body really be supplanted by one of superior perfection? Outrageous as it all may seem, it really is true. 

We may live all our days without seeing the fulfillment of this great hope. But, we might also be a mere moment away. Live expectantly and faithfully, knowing that the change of changes could far closer and sooner than we realize.

©Steve Taylor, 2014
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

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June 11, 2014

A famous airline disaster resulted when a distracted flight crew focused their attention on a fifty-cent light bulb rather than flying the plane. Focused on whether or not a landing gear indicator bulb was working properly, someone bumped the autopilot, putting the plane in a slow descent. Realizing much too late their low altitude, the plane slammed into the ground, resulting in tragic loss of life. This tragic airline disaster parallels a similar disaster than can befall us spiritually.

"For this reason we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away from it." (Hebrews 2:1)

Familiarity easily leads to lack of vigilance. Those who work with machinery on a daily basis can take safety precautions for granted. But, machinery is completely unforgiving of even one instance of carelessness.

Familiarity with God’s truth is similarly perilous. Passion cools, and talking, teaching, and preaching drifts to other secondary things. It’s not so much that we blatantly deny truth; we simply diminish it through lack of focus and attention. It’s like bumping the autopilot on an aircraft, and slowly deviating from the correct flight path. Unless one is extremely vigilant, the slight variation from the course will be imperceptible. 

With the passing of time, I’ve come to realize I don’t know what I think I know. The fundamentals of God’s truth have far more depth than I’ve previously realized. These are precious gems in a jewelry store that have many facets to discover and explore; more than enough for a lifetime. If I’m not careful to see their intrinsic value, I’ll easily look for other lesser-value jewels rather than exploring the precious ones God has graciously already placed in my hands.

There is no quick and simple fix to the danger of spiritual drifting. If it were so, it wouldn’t be a hazard. The subtle danger of drifting is that it takes time to see the deviation, and then only to the keenly perceptive person. A hunger for God’s word and truth seems to be the best preventative measure. Rather than being casually dismissive of what we’ve learned, we need to carefully consider what else there is to know and apply of it. Assuming there is far more to discover, rather than that we’ve learned it and are ready to move on to other things, seems to be a key perspective.

Evaluating where we are, and where we’ve been, factor in to avoiding the danger of drifting. A nostalgic look to the past can be detrimental, but an objective look back to evaluate past passion and priorities is vital. Has passion cooled, and priorities changed? Is the direction of my life now the result of growth, or drifting? And, if I’ve drifted and deviated in a detrimental way, how can I get back to the better pathway? These questions can go far in helping us avoid the danger of drifting.

Praying today that we each pay much closer attention so as to avoid the danger of drifting.

©Steve Taylor, 2014
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

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June 10, 2014

One of my favorite scenes from a classic movie is a child solemnly telling his mother to be careful on her first day of work because, “It's a jungle out there.” It’s more of a jungle out there than most people realize.

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6.12)

Few Bible passages are as sobering as this one. There is a battle that rages, and the enemy is unseen and well organized; thus making the situation more threatening. It’s the ultimate of guerrilla warfare. But, it’s also imperative that two extremes be avoided concerning the great cosmic battle believers are locked in. The first is to overemphasize the enemy. Formidable as our foes are, believers are not pawns in the hands of omnipotent forces. Far too many people have shirked personal responsibility under the guise of “the devil made me do it”. But, the other extreme seems equally dangerous. To deny or diminish the enemy is to make ourselves more vulnerable to his schemes. 

If there truly is an unseen battle, orchestrated and carried out by an intelligent enemy, then it is of the utmost priority to be vigilant and battle-ready. Thus the directive to “take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.” (Ephesians 6.13) There is little point to battle readiness if an enemy does not exist, but extreme peril awaits those who are unprepared if an enemy does exist.

An important battle perspective is readiness, while avoiding the fanaticism of either marginalizing or overemphasizing our enemy. Jesus’ admonition to “be shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves” (Matthew 10.16) seems especially applicable to the cosmic battle. 

It may be “a jungle out there”, but “greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world.” (1 John 4.4), and; “take courage; I have overcome the world.” (John 16.33) The battle is real, and the enemy strong; but the victory is readily available to those who wisely wage war with the full armor of God. Having done so today, my prayer and desire for us is the same as Paul’s: to “stand firm”

©Steve Taylor, 2014
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

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June 9, 2014

It is a date established long ago. Although it cannot be seen on anyone’s calendar, it is the surest of events. It is an event you can - and should - carefully plan around. The most deliberate and detailed plans will be impacted by this one event, so do not dare plan anything without taking this key event into consideration.

"BEHOLD, HE IS COMING WITH THE CLOUDS, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him; and all the tribes of the earth will mourn over Him. So it is to be. Amen." (Revelation 1:7)

The Second Coming of Jesus. Many mock and dismiss it as an absurd notion; delusional hope by deceived followers. Such sentiments are accurately echoed in this passage: "Know this first of all, that in the last days mockers will come with their mocking, following after their own lusts, and saying, 'Where is the promise of His coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all continues just as it was from the beginning of creation.’ ” (2 Peter 3.3-4)

The continuity of creation provides evidence for Second Coming mockers, and can easily lull followers of Christ into lethargy. But, creation itself teaches us that calamities often come with abrupt suddenness; overwhelming the unprepared. Such will it be on the day of Christ’s return.

Mockers ought to beware; the sense of finality and certainty concerning this key evident is well validated in these words: "So it is to be. Amen.” Is there the slightest hint of uncertainty in God’s authoritative word? 

A phrase in an old hymn reflects the most regrettable position for anyone on the day of Christ’s return: almost persuaded. To know and fail to act is the most precarious position of all eternity. There are plenty of people with more than enough biblical information to reach a verdict, but have failed to do so. Their confidence is based on what they know rather than what they have done. And nothing will be more regrettable on that great and certain day than a failure to act: “Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter. (Matthew 7.21)

Believer and cynic alike needs to come to terms with the implications of the greatest event in all history. Regardless of plans, dreams, and hopes, this event will override everything. It WILL happen, and it WILL impact every living soul. Have you made every necessary preparation? Are you living today in full anticipation of this great event? Is it cause for excitement or dread? 

Know that Christ is coming again. Live and serve as if it will happen today. Endure faithfully - motivated by this great hope - if death comes before hope is realized. 

He IS coming again. You have His word on it. Come, Lord Jesus!

©Steve Taylor, 2014
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

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June 5, 2014

It is a done deal. And, it’s better than an honest handshake, or a ream of signed legal papers. It’s signed, sealed, and delivered once and for all.

“For Christ did not enter a holy place made with hands, a mere copy of the true one, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us; nor was it that He would offer Himself often, as the high priest enters the holy place year by year with blood that is not his own. Otherwise, He would have needed to suffer often since the foundation of the world; but now once at the consummation of the ages He has been manifested to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself. And inasmuch as it is appointed for men to die once and after this comes judgment, so Christ also, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time for salvation without reference to sin, to those who eagerly await Him.” (Hebrews 9.24-28)

Under the old Law covenant, a priest was required to continually offer animal sacrifices for human sin. But, the perfect Son of God offered His life as a sacrifice once and for all, at the right time, according to the perfect plan of God. It’s the ultimate done deal. As such, it frees is from the endless cycle of offering animal sacrifices for the ongoing sin problem we all have. We’ve been set free for higher priorities. Our focus is on the fact that He will “appear a second time for salvation without reference to sin, to those who eagerly await Him.” Freed from the problem of sin, we can focus on eagerly awaiting His return.

Lest we think we are liberated to twiddle our thumbs with an eye on the sky, this eager awaiting involves deliberate effort and focus. It means we take discipline seriously. Prayer and Bible study are pressing priorities. Compassion and love for the lost move us in evangelism and disciple-making. Spiritual battle against our enemy and his forces are not taken lightly. 

I love the story of the little girl who had heard about Jesus’ Second Coming. She asked her mother if He could possibly return that day. Probing further her mother’s affirmative answer, she wondered if He could return within the hour, and even within the next minute. Convinced of the possibility of His imminent return, she asked her mother to comb her hair in preparation. If we believe, in childlike innocence, that Jesus’ return is imminent, then we make important preparations. The uncertainty of life factors in to the sense of immanency, and so thus important preparation is imperative. We have this moment to prepare. Are you living your life in such a way that His return is cause for excitement and eager expectation? Or, is there unfinished business that causes you fear and hesitation? This is the moment to take action, while you can.

©Steve Taylor, 2014
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

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