February 17, 2016

It's a fundamentally important truth in understanding who and what we are. If we misunderstand this, there are implications for how we live our lives, and what we hope for. 

"Then the LORD God formed man of dust from the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being." (Genesis 2.7) 

Our Creator Father took the lowly elements of the earth in His hands, and fashioned His highest creation. After "fearfully and wonderfully" (Psalm 139.14) molding our earliest ancestor, He animated him with life-giving breath. Thus, he became a living soul. He didn't receive an immortal soul from our Father, but rather became one. Death, then, would be the exact reversal of this: "when you take away their breath, they die and return to the dust." (Psalm 104.29) 

Why this creation truth is important is that it provides an important definition of what life really is, as well as death. And, that has implications for what happens when we die. 

The fact that God took hands and formed the first man, and bent down to breathe the breath of life into his body, says something of our value. He could have spoken a word and brought him into full being. Rather, He meticulously formed him. Surely we are immensely valuable to Him.

Knowing the truth of Genesis 2.7 impacts understanding of the end of life. If the breath returns to God, and on that day I "do not know anything" (Ecclesiastes 9.5), I can be comforted in knowing that all life function is suspended until the moment of resurrection. From the perspective of the deceased, time will be irrelevant. Whether a minute or a millennium, I will not know how long I have slept in death. It will be as though I went instantly from mortality to immortality. 

The truth of our origins, as revealed in Genesis 2.7, is important for understanding. It leaves us in awe of our importance, and at peace concerning our destiny.

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2016
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February 16, 2016

Ominous reports from the Middle East of military exercises and massive troup build ups may portend the start of World War Three. At least that's what some sources speculate. It's disturbing news if true, but it must not overshadow a greater truth and reality. This description of Christ is basis for hope and confidence: "Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth." (Revelation 1.5) 

Many government leaders and dignitaries would scoff at the notion that Jesus is their superior governmental leader, but He is destined to make this truth abundantly clear. Powerful and ruthless dictators, as well as benevolent kings and rulers, are no match for the King of Kings. By the might of none other than Almighty Yahweh He will rule the domain currently occupied by earthly rulers. 

It's probably not within the mindset of Christ to sit back and gloat as we ponder His inevitable triumph, but it certainly is basis for confidence and optimism today. Knowing the true conclusion to human history makes all the difference in how we live today. We can pray with confidence. Know that obstacles and set backs are temporary at best. Be assured that aging, illness, and death are not final. Realize that service, faithfulness, and holy living are truly worthwhile. 

A sit-back-and-wait-for-it-to-all-unfold isn't the most responsible response to what we know of the future. Instead, everything that we actively do is framed by the great reality of what is to come. 

So, we live confidently and optimistically, amidst dismal prospects of human solutions. We don't lose sight of the true government and leader to which we belong. We live today as though tomorrow's reality exists now. Because, by faith, it's as good as accomplished.

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2016
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

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February 10, 2016

I'm pleased to announce my candidacy. No, I'm not seeking the highest office in the land, but I'm volunteering to serve on the cabinet of a new government. "Your people will volunteer freely in the day of your power." (Psalm 110.3) 

A day is coming when sweeping reform and change will take place. No more government corruption. Or gross injustice. Or financial misappropriation. A perfect system will replace the imperfect one of this country, and every country on earth. It's a literal government in preparation and waiting. 

"Yahweh says to my Lord, 'Sit at My right hand Until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feel.' " (Psalm 110.1) Not everyone is thrilled at the prospect of a new government, headed by Jesus. The enemy has empowered world leaders to do his bidding, and these positions will not be given up without a fight. A monumental conflict has been underway for a very long time, but its outcome is clearly determined. 

As those preparing now to share in the government of Christ, we will "volunteer freely" in the day when He comes to establish that government in power. As such, today is a day of preparation and anticipation. Your life activities have a direct bearing on what you will be doing then. Specific experience and abilities will be wisely used by the King in His coming government. 

Live and serve faithfully and humbly today. Don't be discouraged, but rather live optimistically and expectantly at the absolute prospect of what is to come, and your destiny. He is coming back soon in power!

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2016
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

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February 9, 2016

Life is seasonal. "There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven." (Ecclesiastes 3.1) Just as the seasons of the year change, so do the seasons of our life. Planting and reaping. Destruction and construction. Weeping and laughter. Finding and losing. Keeping and throwing away. Tearing and repairing. Silence and expression.  

For many people, all they see is the seemingly ongoing cycle of seasons between life and death. But, God has also "set eternity in their heart." (Ecclesiastes 3.11) There is something within all of us that yearns to look beyond life's cycles. Some respond to that yearning, and make wise spiritual choices. Many mask or suppress the eternal longing and occupy their lives with trivial pursuits.

Whatever season of life you may be in today, know that it is exactly that: a season. This too shall pass; another season will follow. So, amidst life's seasons it is wise to "rejoice and do good in one's lifetime." (Ecclesiastes 3.12) Our heart yearning for eternity gives causes to rejoice in what He has prepared, and to respond in active benevolence. "preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction." (2 Timothy 4.2)

Life truly is seasonal, between birth and death. We are given a moment within a season today. Treasure it. Maximize its potential. Make it count for yourself, and others. Seize it as an opportunity. For yourself. For others. For God and Christ. For the kingdom. 

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2016
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

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February 3, 2016

Few things are as encouraging and heartwarming as learning that someone said something really nice about you. 

"As for the saints who are in the earth, They are the majestic ones in whom is all my delight." (Psalm 16.3)

Psalm 16 is considered to be a Messianic Psalm. It is as though Christ spoke many years in advance of His actual birth and life. From these words, there is little doubt as to how He feels about us, His people. He describes us as "the majestic ones." Perhaps you are thinking He may have a case of mistaken identity. I'm just a plain, ordinary individual of no great importance. But, "the majestic ones" is an apt description. We are those who will be elevated to share in the leadership of Christ's coming government when He returns to set it up. We are destined to be crowned with immortality and honor. The Majestic One has truly made us His majestic ones! 

We are those "in whom is all My delight." What goes for Jesus Messiah also goes for our heavenly Father. They both take delight in us, their people. 

So, if you are feeling down and discouraged, and could use a good word today, here it is. No matter what others may say or think about you, your truest evaluation is summed up in these wonderful words. These true words, if taken to heart, can help rescue us from an identity crisis, or inferiority complex.  

As a reminder of our identity and destiny, we do well to print and display verse 3 prominently so as to remind ourselves of the great truth expressed in these words.

You are a treasured and valued member of the family of God, with a marvelous destiny!

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2016
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

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February 2, 2016

Given the opportunity, what would you say? If you were invited to address a crowd of people concerning spiritual matters, would you know what to say? "Brethren, if you have any word of exhortation for the people, say it" (Acts 13.15) 

An excellent example is found in the apostle Paul's words in Acts 13.16-41. He explained God's actions in the past. How He chose the people of Israel. How He led them to the land of promise. How He set up kings, and took them down. How He worked and spoke through King David. How Jesus is the promised descendant of David, and how His death was no accident. How God raised Him from the dead, fulfilling ancient prophesies. How forgiveness of sins, and the promise of immortality in the coming kingdom can be had through faith in Christ. 

This presentation of the gospel was well-received ("The next Sabbath nearly the whole city assembled to hear the word of the Lord" Acts 13.44), and was strongly opposed (Acts 13.45). But, "as many as had been appointed to eternal life believed" (Acts 13.48)

And so it was, and always is. A clear and thorough presentation of the gospel will be both well received, and strongly opposed. But, there are always those who are receptive; those "appointed to eternal life." 

It behooves us to know the message, so that we are ready when there is opportunity (1 Peter 3.15). And, there is every reason to believe there will be an opportunity today. Whether before a crowd, or with one person, the opportunity is precious and fleeting. 

May we be faithful to share, and blessed through those who respond. 

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2016
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

Amazon ebook & print devotional http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GW
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https://www.createspace.com/4500045