SOAP 12/11/2016; Jeremiah 38:19

Today's reading: Philemon 1; Hebrews 1, 2, 3, 4*

S) "¹⁹ Then King Zedekiah said to Jeremiah, 'I dread the Jews who have gone over to the Chaldeans, for they may give me over into their hand and they will abuse me.'"

Jeremiah 38:19 (NASB)
*This verse was highlighted before I kept these entries online, so I wrote a new entry

O) Zedekiah, like many kings before him, heard the truth of God from a prophet, but he still rejected it. Unlike some of those other kings, however, he almost seemed reluctant. In many ways, he seemed like he was almost on the fence about whether or not to heed the warnings of the prophet before him. He even sought Jeremiah's counsel, although his motives were certainly questionable. In this verse, we see the summation of his real problem. In the end, King Zedekiah feared men more than he feared the LORD, and that was his undoing.

A) I cannot think of very many instances in the Bible, where the fear of men so clearly trumped the fear of God, like in this verse. I think that is because, like in most of my own experiences, this conflict of fears is more subtle than that. I am not really a fearful person, and I don't generally care too much what other people think about me (or what they think at all). However, I was recently confronted with the realization that, under a certain type of circumstance, this is exactly what was happening. I was being tempted when I was alone, and I had the striking awareness of the presence of God. In itself, that was His grace at its most beautiful, because God was trying to rescue me in that moment of weakness (and He truly did). At that time, I realized that the temptation to sin while no other people were around, was unique to my loneliness, because if there were any people around at all, my fear of their judgment would have been enough to cut through any temptation. I'll say that again, I wouldn't feel tempted because I'd be too afraid of what people would say and think and do in reaction. However, with only God watching, I was not afraid enough of what He would say and think and do. That sickened me that day, and it opened my eyes to the reality that any time I am sinning, I am clearly not fearing God as I should. On the other hand, anytime I would be tempted to sin, if only there were no watchful eyes, then I am clearly fearing people more than I should. The truth is, my very own sins will abuse me. The wages of sin is death. My sins will be the death of me, unless there is intervention. Thankfully, there is divine intervention, the only kind that could ever work. God intervenes, repeatedly, to rescue me from myself. In Christ, His perfect love casts out all fears, and I have no fear of punishment, and no fear of death. I must walk in that mercy every day, and acknowledge the holy perfection of my God. I must fearfully acknowledge His sovereignty to rule my life according to His authority and judgment. That is the only way I can live free of the fear of punishment, and death.

P) Father, open my eyes and ears, to be more aware of Your sovereignty, might, judgment, and authority. Let me fear You as I ought. Show me where my fears are maligned. I never want to be motivated by a fear of men, because I know that is such dangerous ground to walk. That is the same misguided fear that led King Zedekiah astray. Instead, let me fear You, and only You. Let my fear of You alone, motivate and guide my decisions. Let my heart be fully submitted to You, that You would then keep me from sin. Let Your will be done in my life, on earth as it is in heaven. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 12/10/2016; Jeremiah 36:23-24

Today's reading: 2 Timothy 1, 2, 3, 4*
S) "²³ When Jehudi had read three or four columns, the king cut it with a scribe's knife and threw it into the fire that was in the brazier, until all the scroll was consumed in the fire that was in the brazier. ²⁴ Yet the king and all his servants who heard all these words were not afraid, nor did the rend their garments."

Jeremiah 36:23-24 (NASB)
*This verse was highlighted before I kept these entries online, so I wrote a new entry

O) God had directed Jeremiah to write down everything He had told the prophet, from the time of King Josiah until this time (the fourth year of Jehoiakim, son of Josiah). When the scribe wrote it all down, because Jeremiah was still under a sort of political house arrest, he told the scribe to take the scroll and read it in the temple of the LORD. Then, in v.9, we see the narrative skip forward as much as a year, but we don't know if Baruch the scribe had been reading the scroll repeatedly that whole span. However, at this later time some officials heard the words, and they were appropriately alarmed, and carried word to the king. Despite trying to hide the actual scroll, the king fetched it (although Baruch and Jeremiah were hidden). When the king heard the words of the scroll, not only was he unafraid, but he didn't even seem exactly angry. His action to destroy the scroll (and trying to seize the scribe and prophet) almost seems like an afterthought. What this really came down to, was that this king wanted to continue in his own sovereignty. Rather than rending his clothes in repentance, he chose to rend the scroll which condemned him. Obviously, though, this was not like the edict of an earthly king. Destroying the physical message wouldn't eliminate the danger, any more than killing the messenger would.

A) This is a strong reminder for me. When confronted with the truth and sovereignty of God, my choice is to submit or rebel. There is no middle ground, there. God requires obedience and submission to His lordship. The instinct, though, is to just tear up the message and try to ignore the things God says when they don't align with my own will. Like a little kid with a note from the teacher, I want to destroy the evidence of my guilt, rather than confess it and submit to the authorities over me. But, this is the beauty of the gospel. I don't have to be afraid of the punishment, if I am truly repentant when I confess my sins. God has already promised to justify me in the blood of Christ, when I repent and submit myself under His sovereign authority again. So, when I read the Bible, and there are Scriptures which convict me of a sinful behavior or attitude, my reaction must be to accept the truth and authority of my King, as well as His mercy and grace. Something's gotta give, and I will either rend my heart in repentance, or rend His words in denial.

P) Father God, the grace You have shown Your servant is overwhelming. Indeed, You had overwhelmed me with Your mercy and grace, Your lovingkindness in pursuit of my heart, even when I was in denial of Your words. I am so thankful, Lord, that You never give up on me. Even when I choose to rend Your words, rather than rend my heart, You are always willing to receive me again. Let me walk in an attitude of willing and quick repentance. I invite the convictions of the Holy Spirit in my life. Open my eyes and ears, to recognize the sinful areas of my heart that need to be submitted to Your authority, God. May I choose to rend my heart, and never Your words, because I am so aware of Your grace and mercy, Your lovingkindness and compassion, which saved me from my self-inflicted ruin. Let Your praise be ever on my lips, and be glorified in my life. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 12/07/2016; Jeremiah 8:10b-11

Today's reading: Colossians 1, 2, 3, 4*

S) "¹⁰ '... From the prophet even to the priest
Everyone practices deceit.
¹¹ 'They heal the brokenness of the daughter of My people superficially,
Saying, "Peace, peace,"
But there is no peace.'"

Jeremiah 8:10b-11 (NASB)
*This verse was highlighted before I kept these entries online, so I wrote a new entry

O) This chapter is part of a long discourse, where the LORD is exposing just how far His people have gone away from His ways. In a sense, these two verses really summarize the depth of their fall. Of all of God's people, the prophets and priests had always remained the most faithful. From the very beginning, Moses (himself a prophet) and Aaron (the first of the Levitical priests) were clearly the most faithful of that generation (although they themselves were disqualified from entering the promised land). Then into the judges, we see the prophetess Deborah rebuking the judge Barak (Judges 4). Even with the very first king of Israel, Samuel had to rebuke Saul. Nathan had to rebuke King David. Even after the split of the kingdom, when Jeroboam erected golden calves in Israel, all the Levites left their lands behind, to go to Judah so they could remain faithful to the LORD (2 Chronicles 11:14-16). So, we see example after example, throughout the checkered history of Israel, and even Judah, that the priests and prophets had, for the most part, remained faithful to God even if the kings and people had become unfaithful. However, here in the final days of Judah, after the kingdom of Israel had already been taken into exile for their unfaithfulness, even the priests and prophets (Jeremiah excluded, I think) had become deceitful. They were charged with ministering to the people, with speaking the truth of God to them, and bringing reconciliation between God and His people, but they weren't doing it. They were saying there is peace, but there was no peace. They were saying that the people were healed (spiritually, that is), but they were not.

A) There is a sense in which all believers are called into the royal priesthood (1 Peter 2), because we are ministering to the world, trying to share the gospel and facilitate that reconciliation between God and His creation. And, in a smaller scale, there is a sense in which I operate as a priest over my family, in that I am leading them to serve God, to worship Him. In that role, I have a responsibility to lead them in truth. I cannot call something acceptable that is not acceptable to God. I cannot mislead them into a false sense of security. I must hold firmly to the truth of God's standard for righteousness, carefully observing His holiness, and openly leading by example in confession and repentance. I have a duty to lovingly care for my family when I see there is sin or brokenness. It is not up to me to heal them, though. That is the role of God alone. But, I should be leading them back to the presence of Jesus, that He may do what He does as our merciful and faithful high priest.

P) Father God, thank You for the mercy and healing that You are so quick to give. Thank You for the promise to sanctify me in Christ Jesus. Thank You for leading me, to conform to the truth as You have declared it, and for opening my eyes and ears to know Your standard of righteousness. I know that the culture of this world would rather redefine what is good, than to submit to the only One who is good, but that is not what I want. I don't want the false promises of the world, I want peace with You. Help me to lead my family in truth. Help me to be bold, in confessing the truth according to Scripture. Let me be unwavering in my commitment to this. I know that this must be done in love, or else it will become a fruitless endeavor, so please keep my heart soft. Let me always seek the good of my wife and children, according to what You define as good. I know that You can, and will, heal every spiritual hurt that we have. Every wound we endure can be healed when we are reconciled in peace with You. Even our physical hurts are only temporary, until we are raised in glory with Jesus. So, let me lead my family in love, so they may be healed in truth, and have peace with You. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 10/16/2016; Psalm 119:71-72

Today's reading: Malachi 3, 4; Psalm 148; Acts 5

S) "⁷¹ It is good for me that I was afflicted,
That I may learn Your statutes.
⁷² The law of Your mouth is better to me
Than thousands of gold and silver pieces."

Psalm 119:71-72 (NASB)
*This verse was highlighted before I kept these entries online, so I wrote a new entry

O) This is the end of the "Teth" portion of this psalm (because Psalm 119 has a sort of verse for each letter in the Hebrew alphabet, almost like an acrostic poem). Because these verses are sort of a conclusion for vv.65-70, working backward through them helps shed some light on the context. David concludes that the law of God is better than gold and silver to the extreme. Gold and silver, obviously being some of the most valuable things available for him to compare, he is essentially saying that God's law, His very words (because it says, "of Your mouth") is priceless, invaluable, irreplaceable. He wouldn't trade them for anything. With that attitude as a starting point, when reflecting on v.71, it's easier to see how he concluded that his afflictions were good. If the most valuable thing in the world to him is the law of God's mouth, then anything that brings him more awareness, more knowledge, a deeper understanding of that same thing, that law of God's mouth, anything to bring that more to light, that would also be valued by David. His ability to see his circumstances this way, though, was predicated on the value he placed on the law of God's mouth. If he didn't have such a high regard for God's words, then he probably would not have seen his affliction as anything so good, either.

A) The very direct application for me, is first for me to determine the value of God's words, the law of His mouth, in my life. That is really just a determination I have to make (and, I have been making it over the last several years). Values are always defined internally. If I had a baseball signed by my favorite player, and someone wanted to trade me a baseball signed by Babe Ruth, I might not want to do it because my favorite is still my favorite. Even though I could sell the Babe Ruth for more (because other people would value it more), that doesn't mean that I value it more. In the same way, I can make the determination that God's words, the law of His mouth, are indeed more valuable to me than thousands of gold and silver pieces. That's the price I can set on it, by my own valuation. Once I'm there, once I've determined that knowing God's words is so valuable to me, then I will begin to see circumstances differently, especially afflictions. If financial stresses are causing me to dive into Scriptures for hope and trust in God, then my financial stress will be seen as a good thing - because I so value God's words. If relationship issues, difficulties with my kids, problems at work, failing health; if anything causes me to learn God's statues better, to learn what He has said more, then those afflictions will be seen as good, when I value the law of God's mouth so much. I'll be able to say it's a good thing I went through X, Y, and Z, because it brought me closer to God, and I understand Him better, having gone through that while leaning into Him. Because of this view, and seeing my afflictions as a discipline rather than a punishment, I should be warned that in a way that could be inviting God to allow afflictions in my life, though. I'll pray that I deliberately value God's words more, but at the same time, I'll expect afflictions may help me prove my prayers.

P) Father God, the law of Your mouth is better to me than thousands of gold and silver pieces. I declare that, I confess it. Help me to live that out, and prove it by my actions and lifestyle. Let me hunger and thirst for Your words, each day. When I face afflictions, when I am tested in this, let those circumstances drive me into communion with You, Father God. Let me run to the refuge of Your words. Let me spend more and more time in the Scriptures, that I would know Your words better and better, and know You more and more. In every thing, on earth as it is in heaven, let Your will be done. Be glorified in my afflictions. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 09/17/2016; Revelation 22:8-9

Today's reading: Ezekiel 42, 43, 44; Revelation 22

 S) "⁸ I, John, am the one who heard and saw these things. And when I heard and saw, I fell down to worship at the feet of the angel who showed me these things. ⁹ But he *said to me, 'Do not do that. I am a fellow servant of yours and of your brethren the prophets and of those who heed the words of this book. Worship God.'"

Revelation 22:8-9 (NASB)

O) John, by the end of the visions he had seen, must have been fairly overwhelmed. With all of the supernatural activities, the swing from plagues to promises, it's not really that hard to understand why he would have been tempted to worship at the feet of this angel. In fact, this wasn't even the first time he was tempted in this way (see Revelation 19:10). However, this angel was quick to rebuke John, reminding him to worship God alone. The angel also gives some definition to his role as an angel (that he is a fellow servant), and also some definition to what it means to be of the brethren (that we heed the words of God, and also that we serve one another).

A) First, this is a warning to me to not exalt fellow servants of God. I must be careful not to take an attitude of admiration beyond those bounds, where I may actually be closer to worshiping a fellow servant. Second, and equally important, is that I must never allow others to esteem me to such a degree, either, that it would become sin for them and me, both. The best way for me to really keep this kind of humility and right-minded view, is for me to be committed to worshiping God alone, and doing so often. That's the only safeguard against idolatry, and the only safeguard against pride.

P) Father, You alone are to be praised. I confess that I have wrongfully worshiped things and people. This can still be a temptation, still be a struggle for me, when I let my guard down. When I take my eyes off of You, I am woefully prone to exalting things in my heart that have no place there. But, I want to worship You alone. I want to redirect others, too. I don't just want to deflect compliments, but I want to reflect Your glory. Help me to be bold, and vocal, about praising You when others see anything good in me. Help me to plainly refer them to Your goodness, so that anything resembling admiration for me, might become worship of You. All of this to Your glory alone, Lord God. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 09/15/2016; Revelation 20:14-15

Today's reading: Ezekiel 38, 39; Psalm 145; Revelation 20

S) "¹⁴ Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire. ¹⁵ And if anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire."

Revelation 20:14-15 (NASB)

O) Similar to the end of the beast and the false prophet, and then the end of their army that followed them, these verses are at once a promise and a warning. The promise, is that one day death and Hades will be ended, thrown into the lake of fire. The struggle of human existence as we know it, will be over. No longer will we wonder about the after life. No longer will we deal with mortality. The mystery will be over. That is a promise. The warning, is that those whose names are not found in the book of life, they will also be thrown into the lake of fire. Just as I mentioned yesterday, regarding Revelation 19:20-21, the passage above (combined w/vv.5-6), may support the idea of utter annihilation for those doomed to the lake of fire. A little earlier in this chapter (v.10), the devil is certainly said to be tormented for eternity, and it seems likely that the beast and false prophet also share that fate. However, this mention of the second death, and the comparison to those who will not suffer the second death being the followers of Christ, this does leave it open to the possibility that if their names are not found in the book of life, they are destroyed in the lake of fire. After all, this chapter is very clear that the devil (and probably the beast and false prophet) will suffer eternally. It does not include that description for those people who are cast in. Likewise, the people are said to suffer the second death, but the devil, false prophet, and beast, are not said to suffer a second death when they are thrown into it.

A) Like my conclusion yesterday, I still don't want people to be thrown into the lake of fire, regardless of what happens to them when they hit the flames. I don't want them to suffer, I don't want them to be annihilated. This is because I would much rather see them live eternally with Jesus! If people come to submission under the lordship of Christ, because they are afraid of suffering in hell, or being annihilated, then I suppose that is still a victory and reason to celebrate. However, if a person continues in their walk with Jesus only because they are afraid of hell, then I don't think that is really sustainable. Fear, as a motivation, doesn't last very long (in the big picture). It is much more important to submit to King Jesus because we love Him, and we understand His love for us. Love is a perfect motivator. The verses above are cause for me to celebrate, in that I know with certainty that there is an end to come. I know that there will be a time when the struggle of humanity will be past us. There will be a time when I no longer wonder about eternity. That is a comfort to me, because it lets me let go. I don't have to debate it. Similarly, I don't have to know exactly what happens in hell, because I'm certainly not going there. I can be certain of that because of the love I share with Jesus. He loves me, and I love Him. That love will not change, even if I am not always good at acting out my love. I want my life to glorify God, not only because I fear and revere Him as my Creator, but because of the love in my life. Love is a much more appealing attribute in me, as a Christian, than any fear I might express.

P) Father, thank You for these promises, Lord God. Thank You for revealing the end of the story. Thank You for promises, that death and Hades will be ended. Thank You for the promises that the devil will be permanently judged and ended. Thank You for promising that I will live forever in eternity with You. Help me to heed this warning, even though my own salvation is secure in my relationship with Jesus. Help me to heed the warning, that it would affect how I share the gospel, and why I share the gospel. Not only that I want no one to go to hell, whether it's eternal torment or annihilation, but let this contrast be motivation to share the gospel that others would receive an eternity of love, and an eternity of relationship with You. Open my eyes and ears, that I would be more and more obedient to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Let me boldly share the gospel, and Your love in my life. Let Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 09/14/2016; Revelation 19:20-21

Today's reading: Ezekiel 36, 37; Psalm 110; Revelation 19

S) "²⁰ And the beast was seized, and with him the false prophet who performed the signs in his presence, by which he deceived those who had received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped his image; these two were thrown alive into the lake of fire which burns with brimstone. ²¹ And the rest were killed with the sword which came from the mouth of Him who sat on the horse, and all the birds were filled with their flesh."

Revelation 19:20-21 (NASB)

O) The bigger picture of the Bible should never be lost. The bigger message of any particular book within the Bible should always be kept in focus. The running theme and context of any specific passage should always be protected. With that in mind, this chapter is closing with the victory of the Lamb, God's victory over the beast and the false prophet, and the army which they commanded. God is victorious, not only over the carnal humans who oppose Him, and oppose His people, but He is also victorious over His spiritual enemies. Now, in the particulars of these verses, I did find it notable, that the beast and the false prophet, who may not actually be people (but possibly institutions, nations, or spiritual beings), are the two who are said to be thrown into the lake of fire. The people, the army of followers who were still opposing God, are simply said to be slain. They are killed, and their bodies are then food for the birds (which is fairly common language in prophetic judgments). That is to say, the people are not said to be thrown alive into the lake of fire. It may be that they still end up there, but this is one of many passage that suggests the possibility that those who die apart from Christ simply die, that they are extinguished, that they do not suffer eternally but are instead destroyed utterly. This is by no means definitive; there are many passages that suggest eternal suffering for those who reject Christ, but there are as many passages (maybe more) that suggest the annihilation of those who reject Christ. In either case, the sovereignty and victory of God are certain.

A) Regardless of the details (or even the duration), I don't want anyone to go to hell. More exactly, I want everyone to live forever in communion with Jesus! There is no sweeter peace, joy, fulfillment, and love, than to be in relationship with Jesus. So, I don't want to become too distracted by debating the nature, characteristics, or details of hell. I know that God will end the problem of sin. I know that God will be victorious over all His enemies. This passage is a promise of His ultimate victory over the beast and false prophet, and it's a warning to the people who would oppose God. It's not about what happens or doesn't happen in hell. This passage is to remind me of the awesome power of my God. This passage is to remind me that He wins, and I win with Him when I am in Christ. This passage humbles me, reminding me to be thankful for my place with Him.

P) Father, thank You for victory. Thank You for revealing the end of the story, that You will one day put an end to Your enemies, and mine. I pray for Your will to be done, that every opportunity is given for every person in the world to accept You as King. Let Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Father God. You are sovereign and good. You are just and merciful. You are full of grace and love. Thank You for bringing me into a right relationship with You, through the gospel. Be glorified in my life, and let me boldly share Your love with others. Let me evangelize, not because hell is bad, but because You are good. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 09/12/2016; Daniel 4:37

Today's reading: Daniel 3, 4; Psalm 81; Revelation 17

S) "³⁷ Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise, exalt and honor the King of heaven, for all His works are true and His ways just, and He is able to humble those who walk in pride."

Daniel 4:37 (NASB)

O) The king had a vision of a tree being cut down, and he could not understand what it meant. When he finally consulted Daniel, he was warned that his pride would bring the judgment of God, and that he would be driven mad for seven years. Daniel warned the king to humble himself, that perhaps he would not be made like the beasts of the earth. The actual judgment didn't happen until a year later, but it's not really explained why. Perhaps Nebuchadnezzar had humbled himself enough, or for a while, and that postponed his judgment. Perhaps God was simply being patient, trying to give him time to repent in the first place. In either case, the king vocalized his arrogant heart from the rooftop of his palace, God heard it and pronounced sentence against Nebuchadnezzar, and he went insane for seven years. He was eating grass and was wetted by the dew, and apparently his appearance was like a wild beast, with his hair like feathers and his hands like claws. Eventually, he did repent, and the verse above is his conclusion on the matter after it was over.

A) Nebuchadnezzar is a prime example of a man whose life should probably not be emulated, but he still had a profound, accurate, challenging thing to say about God. There are many things in my life that are so far beyond my control, that I never even consider defying them. I can't control how much money I make. I can't control who my neighbors are. But, the power wielded by this King was, by earthly standards, limitless. Even so, God humbled him by directly turning his life upside down. God didn't use circumstances like an uprising rebellion, or a conquering empire. He didn't even use natural disasters, or famine, or plagues. Instead, to reveal His absolute sovereignty, God simply reduced this king to an animal. Thankfully, God has never resorted to such devastating methods in my life. He could, and as Nebuchadnezzar said, His decision would be justified. Having said that, He certainly has used circumstances to do it. Much more desirable would be to humble myself, then God won't have to humble me. Even so, I'd rather God humble me, even as He did to Nebuchadnezzar, than for me to be obstinate before Him. I'd rather be humbled by God's ways, than destroyed by His wrath.

P) Father, You are the King of heaven. All Your works are true and Your ways just. You have humbled this proud servant, and I know You will again. In fact, today in my clearheaded and humble thinking, I invite Yiu to keep me humble, Lord. You are sovereign and I am not. You are wise and I have no understanding. I need Your righteousness, judgment, protection, and goodness. I depend on Your grace and mercy. I never want my pride to stand between us, Lord. So, if I am ever failing to humble myself before my Lord, then please, by all means, humble me. You are worth my humiliation, Father God. Thank You for Your compassion and lovingkindness. Thank You for the patience Yoh show me everyday. Be glorified in my life, and let Your will alone be done. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 09/08/2016; Ezekiel 28:16

Today's reading: Jeremiah 42, 43, 44; Psalm 48; Revelation 13

S) "¹⁶ By the abundance of your trade
You were internally filled with violence,
And you sinned;
Therefore I have cast you as profane
From the mountain of God.
And I have destroyed you, O covering cherub,
From the midst of the stones of fire."

Ezekiel 28:16 (NASB)

O) This verse was already highlighted in my Bible, as a warning, but when I looked for an entry for it I couldn't find one (although it certainly seems familiar). Since I can't exactly erase a highlight, I decided I would go ahead and write a(nother) entry for it. This comes as part of a judgment and then lamentation for the king of Tyre, although he is not named. While the imagery and some of the descriptions certainly carry with them some spirituality, I do believe this is still talking about a mortal man. Throughout the first half of the chapter, there are several references to the king making himself out to be like God, and the supernatural elements to vv.15-16 may be a reference to that, almost like the LORD is using the arrogance of the king to make His point, that the king is no match for God at all. I suppose, because it is not explicitly said so in the Bible, and even because this king is unnamed, that there is some possibility that he could have been an actual cherub, but that seems unlikely. However, whichever is the case has no bearing on the warning itself. Clearly, the hubris of this king brought about the judgment of God.

A) Because I know with certainty that I am not a cherub, the last half of the verse isn't directly applicable. Even metaphorically, this is a judgment I will avoid by keeping myself humble before my God. He is God and I am not. Unfortunately, there are still ways in which I act as if I am God - by this I mean I am tempted and sometimes sin, with things like arrogant pride, and making decisions as if I am sovereign over my life. In a sense, every time I sin, it could be said that I am making myself out to be the god of my own life, that I am making myself the god of my own heart. There are many, many passages in the Bible, warning against this kind of pride. However, this verse did strike me as a little unique, in that it connects the materialism of the king's desires to the violence of his hands. While this passage may be a little more descriptive than prescriptive, I also see a sort of parallel in the beginning of James 4, which talks about the connection between unsatisfied desires and violence. While the root of any sin is certainly pride, it should be noted that there are other - progressions I suppose I could say - that trace sinful behaviors back to their roots. If violence really is the end result of materialism, then addressing the unchecked desires in my life will certainly help prevent some of that violence (although I am sure other things can lead to violence). Materialism isn't something too obvious in my life; that is to say, I don't think it's a regular stumbling block for me. Having said that, I know that I have sometimes been surprised by desires that have taken root in my heart, for things that I don't really need, or even that I should certainly not even have. Even materialism has a root, and tracing it back to the pride that says I'm in charge of my life, and I'm entitled to my desires, is certainly where I need to put to death my own desires.

P) Father, thank You for the patience You show Your servant every single day. I confess that materialism still creeps into my heart at times. I don't always notice it, because it doesn't seem like a particularly regular struggle for me. Because of that, I pray that You would help me see the temptations for what they are, help me see them even more clearly. Tracing that back further, Lord, I lay down my own desires. Help me put to death, the desires that do not honor You. I am not my own, Lord. I confess that I am Yours, because You have purchased me - and at an incalculable cost. I am indebted to You. However, even more than that, I just love You. Father God, I want to be obedient, and to please You. I want to live for You, and not fleshly lusts which are passing away, anyway. Help me to exercise more self-control today than I did yesterday. Help me to grow in this daily. Help me to walk in the Spirit, so I am not gratifying the desires of my flesh, and instead I am pursuing and gratifying the desires of my spirit. It is the desire of my spirit to honor and glorify You, my Lord. Let Your will be done in this. Have Your way with me, Your humble servant. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 09/07/2016; Revelation 12:17

Today's reading: 2 Kings 25; 2 Chronicles 36; Jeremiah 40, 41; Revelation 12

S) "¹⁷ So the dragon was enraged with the woman, and went off to make war with the rest of her children, who keep the commandments of God and hold to the testimony of Jesus."

Revelation 12:17 (NASB)

O) This chapter seems to take a break from the future events, inasmuch as it seems pretty clear that it is depicting the birth of Jesus, and the opposition from satan. The ensuing war, I think, probably takes place over a long course of time, but that's where it gets a little bit more than speculative. Eschatology being what it is, and apocalyptic prophecy adding to the mystery, there's no way to know what all of this means. Anyone claiming to have all of the knowledge, all of the secrets revealed, should probably be avoided. However, taking the chapter together as a whole, the sovereignty and victory of God come through very clearly (especially from v.11). Just as important, to take from this chapter and this last verse especially, is that there is a very real war happening. The church, and every citizen of the Kingdom of God, has a very real, very active, very angry enemy. The enemy of Christianity, of Christians, of Christ, it is not the far left-wing politics of America. The enemy is not the liberality of Europe. The enemy is not Islam, or even the militant tyranny of ISIS (or ISOL). The real enemy we have is the dragon, the ancient serpent, the devil, satan (v.9). Everything else is a ploy. We do not battle against flesh and blood. There is a much bigger, much more important war raging around the globe. It's the only war that matters, the only war that has ever mattered. The war for souls to be rescued from the hatred of the devil. This battle is fought without carnal weapons, but instead with the spiritual weapons of prayer and fasting, learning the truth of God through Scripture, and the boots on the ground are the same ones that bring the gospel to those who are held captive.

A) Nothing frustrates me like wanting to fight, feeling the adrenaline and zeal, but having no actual target. Nothing makes me want to fight, like spiritual issues. Things like, when someone has been believing a lie for a long time. Things like, when someone has been struggling with a temptation for a long time and I didn't know it. It didn't take long as a Christian, for me to realize that those are spiritual issues, because I never wanted to fight a person, per se. It's just that it felt the same as wanting to fight. I learned that the fight really is in prayer. It's also in speaking the truth against those lies, and fasting for freedom, and just loving people like Jesus. Verses like the one above remind me that there is an enemy to fight, and the real issue for me, is to remember that there is a war going on even if the battlefront hasn't hit home. The devil is making war, even if I am not. He has been enraged for more than two thousand years. He hasn't stopped making war, and he won't stop until Jesus comes back to end it once and for all. In the meantime, I know that I will not end his fight, but I for sure won't let him end mine, either. I won't let him end the fight for anyone I love. The hardest thing about spiritual warfare, is that it is so hard to keep focus. It is so hard, because it's easy to be out-of-sight and out-of-mind. I don't want to be reactive, I want to be active. I want to be actively praying for my own clarity of mind, victory over temptation, faithfulness to my Lord, and devout in my obedience. I want to be actively praying for my marriage, for my wife. I want to be actively praying for her through her weaknesses, that she would find strength in the Lord. I want to be actively praying for my kids, and my unsaved loved ones, and my friends, and my town, and my country, and the world. I just need to keep my eye on the prize, remember that I have a real enemy, and then stand up and fight.

P) Father, You have already given me the victory. I know that with the blood of the Lamb and the word of my testimony, I will overcome. However, I confess that I am easily distracted. I am easily fooled, lulled into a false sense of security. There is a very real war raging through the world, and my house is not immune to those perils, either. But, I don't want to wait for a bombardment for me to take up arms and join the fray. I want to be more active. Father, I must keep my mind on the battle; this is not a game. Open my eyes to see this fight; open my ears to hear the war. Help me be a disciplined soldier for You, my King. Please forgive my apathy and ignorance. Give me Your sword and point me in the direction to start swinging, God. I want to fight for You. I want to fight for myself, and for my wife and marriage, and for my kids. I want to fight for the souls who are in danger, the people I love who are not yet citizens in the Kingdom with me. Let Your will be done here, Lord, on earth as it is in heaven. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 09/06/2016; Ezekiel 29:7

Today's reading: Ezekiel 29, 30, 31, 32; Revelation 11

S) "⁷ When they took hold of you with the hand,
You broke and tore all their hands;
And when they leaned on you,
You broke and made all their loins quake."

Ezekiel 29:7 (NASB)

O) There are three main things to take into consideration about this verse. First, is that this concept is not original with Ezekiel. When Jerusalem was besieged by Rabshakeh while Hezekiah reigned, he said that Judah should have no confidence in Egypt, calling them a staff of crushed reed, that if they leaned on Egypt they'd be pierced in the hand. Now, the literal recording from above suggests it might say "shoulder" but the point is the same. The significance between these two analogies, is that the earlier were the words of an Assyrian commander, while the words recorded above were given to Ezekiel by the LORD. We could take this to mean that the words of Rabshakeh informed the opinion of God (i.e., Assyria said it and God was confirming it as true). Or, more likely, God had informed the opinion of Assyria regarding Egypt. After all, Assyria had conquered Israel (the northern kingdom) before coming against Jerusalem; they were used as God's agent of purging the northern kingdom, who had rebelled against Him. Rabshakeh even claimed that the LORD actually told him to go conquer (see Isaiah 36:10). Although he obviously could have been lying, we know God spoke to Nebuchadnezzar, but he simply exalted himself beyond God's purposes. The same could have happened with Sennacherib sending Rabshakeh against Jerusalem. The second notable thing between these two analogies, are that in the earlier case, it was a warning to Judah (and likely a warning from God through an unlikely vessel). However, this later warning is directed at Egypt, who is the subject of this unflattering verse. God's people were still likely to hear of God's judgment against Egypt, as Ezekiel was a prophet sent to them, but this is still God humbling a country that thought more highly of themselves than they ought to have. The last notable difference, is the addition of the second portion, "And when they leaned..." Because the reality is, a lot of countries did rely on Egypt for support in conquests, in defense, and for food in times of famine, and even for shelter when they were fleeing political oppression or even assassination. But, how the world viewed Egypt didn't matter, because God knew them better. He saw through their reputation, and saw how weak, splintered, and vulnerable they really were. Lastly, there is a peculiarity with the last word. It is literally translated "stand" and it makes for a somewhat ambiguous sentence. Some of the older translations (KJV, ASV) say, "... loins to be at a stand." But the general idea seems to be the same, that it shocks, wrenches, quakes... it's not good.

A) These kinds of warnings must always be seen two ways. First, I must not be the Egypt in this judgment. God knows me better than the people who see me. They might have a very high opinion of my abilities, qualities, or character. But, they only have their perception. I also may think highly of myself, which might even be informed by te praises of others, to some degree. However, God knows my weaknesses. God knows my limitations, my shortcomings, my failures. As much as I value genuine and loving encouragement, which is good in itself, I must always humble myself before my God, and ask Him for a reality check. Second, I must also not be fooled by the Egypts around me. I must only look to Jesus for my help, for my support, for my security. Obviously, God will use Christians in my life to support, love, and care for me - He'll even use some unbelievers for His glory in this - but that's just it, always His glory must be central to this all.

P) Father God, thank You for direct discipline. Thank You for admonishing Your children, and loving me enough to warn me about dangers I can't see. Thank You for being utterly reliable, and stronger than I can ever fully know. You are holy and good to Your servant. I confess that I have mistaking let placed my trust in broken reeds. I have foolishly looked elsewhere for help and support. But, I know the truth now. I know that there is no other support but You, God. There is no other, on whom I can lean, except You. You are my Rock, my sure foundation. Thank You for grace and love. Let Your glory be plain by my complete trust in You, Father God. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 09/04/2016; Ezekiel 22:28

Today's reading: Ezekiel 22, 23, 24; Revelation 9

S) "²⁸ Her prophets have smeared whitewash for them, seeing false visions and divining lies for them, saying, 'Thus says the Lord God,' when the Lord has not spoken."

Ezekiel 22:28 (NASB)

O) Few things anger the LORD, quite like speaking for Him falsely. When I think about the kind of harm that could befall my kids, if someone lied to them about things I never said, convincing them I did, it makes me furious. Yet, these prophets, who were supposed to be the protectors of the people, shepherding the flock of God in His ways, they were doing exactly that. They were corrupted, using their station to deceive God's people. The reference to whitewashing goes back to Ezekiel 13, when the prophets were already condemned for falsely presenting a peace for the people, when indeed there was only the illusion of security. People want hope, they want to know what's happening around them has some kind of purpose, or that it won't last forever. People want security. When wicked people see that need, they will attempt to fill it for their own sordid gain, not because they actually love the people. That's what was happening here.

A) People, as a species, do not change. Our basic needs have always been the same, our desires remain consistent through the ages. One of those, is that desire for security, and to know everything is going to be alright. In our world today, there are still billions of people who seek supernatural answers to these existential questions. Then, there are the others who seek the answers in the scientific and tangible world. Some bounce back and forth. What I have come to learn, though, is that the only reliable, cohesive, thorough answer is found in Jesus Christ. There are huge markets for psychology, financial independence, business success, and physical exercise. That reveals the desires of people, to be healed, secure, and powerful. Ultimately, though, all of those are whitewashing cracked walls. All of those attempts are only going to make things appear good for a little while. Ultimately, what I need is Jesus. I need Him to heal me, protect me, secure my future, and overcome my enemy. I only need Him. Anyone who says otherwise is selling something.

P) Father, thank You for our relationship, Lord God. Help me to continue growing in our relationship, to know You better and better. Let me remain firmly rooted in the Scriptures, to know what You have actually said, so that I can never be fooled into trusting a whitewashed wall. Give me discernment to recognize Your voice, when others speak on what You have said, or when they are speaking of their own mind and only claiming falsely to speak on Your behalf. Open my eyes and ears, and let me receive Your truth alone. Thank You for securing my future, for healing my brokenness. Thank You for protecting me, and for the victory I receive in Jesus Christ my King. Let me be bold to speak the truth, Lord. Let me be bold to expose false teachers, who are preying on the spiritual needs of desperate and endangered people. Help me to be bold with the gospel, the truth hope of Jesus Christ. Let all this be done only for Your glory, and let Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 08/25/2016; 2 John 10-11

Today's reading: Jeremiah 37, 38, 39; Psalm 79; 2 John

S) "¹⁰ If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your house, and do not give him a greeting; ¹¹ for the one who gives him a greeting participates in his evil deeds."

2 John 10-11 (NASB)

O) John was warning about false teachers, antichrist people who deny that Jesus came in the flesh. More broadly, he says in the previous verse that these are those who go too far and do not abide in the teaching of Jesus. Then he immediately followed with a warning not to allow these false teachers to enter your home and not even to greet them, or else we would participate in their evil deeds. These are strong words, but it's hard to misunderstand them because they are fairly plain. There does seem to be something almost spiritual, about having people into the home. When Jesus sent out the seventy disciples, He said to bless and heal the households that received them. However, he said to proclaim against the cities where no one would receive them, that they would even wipe off the dust of the city; but that the kingdom of God is close. Jesus said it will be better for Sodom, than for a city that rejects His disciples. So we see a very strong difference of instruction, based on who allowed the disciples into their homes. Similarly, John is telling us to be very discerning about what kinds of teaching we allow into our homes.

A) There is a part of me that almost laments this warning, because I'm probably too fond of conflict. When Mormons or Jehovah's Witnesses come to my door, I want to have them come inside so I can debate them. It doesn't usually last long, and everywhere I've lived, they only come once and never return. So, I can't even say that my discussions with them have been particularly fruitful. Also, those were pretty much before any of my kids were old enough to understand any teaching, let alone Godly things. I don't worry too much about my kids overhearing false teaching (or my wife for that matter), if it's something I can discuss with them and we can keep everything straight according to what the Bible actually says. Then again, there's no reason to let seeds be planted that must be dug out again. Furthermore, I simply am not privy to all of their unspoken doubts or misconceptions. Beyond those kinds of risks, I think John is simply saying, that by allowing false teaching, or a false teacher, into my home, I am endorsing his teaching. That is certainly something I must avoid. So, a new determination I make, that if anyone comes to my door, preaching a different Jesus than the Bible teaches, I must politely but firmly send them on their way.

P) Father, thank You for giving me the truth. Thank You for opening my eyes and ears, to know Your words even as well as I do, but I pray that I continue to learn them better. Help me to be bold and firm, against false teachers. Please protect my family, my wife, my children and their children, against false teaching and deceptive false-gospels. Let Your will be done, in who we invite into our home. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 08/22/2016; 1 John 3:1

Today's reading: Jeremiah 28, 29, 30; 1 John 3

S) "¹ See how great a love the Father has bestowed on us, that we would be called children of God; and such we are. For this reason the world does not know us, because it did not know Him."

1 John 3:1 (NASB)

O) John was called the disciple whom Jesus loved, or the beloved disciple, and it's no wonder that so much of his letters focuses on the love of Christ. He really understood the reality of the love of God. To be sure, this is a wonderful promise! It is wondrous, the love God has for us. John himself, wrote the words that God loved the world so much, He sent His only Son to die for us. For a long time, I held a particular appreciation that I am saved, since I was not Jewish, but even the Jews didn't consider themselves sons of God, but sons of Abraham. This is more, though. Being a son of God is the assertion Jesus made, which goes beyond being of Israel. In Christ, we are made fellow heirs of the promises in Christ. He is the firstborn, and we are made His brethren. That is so great a love! That is why John finishes that verse with a reminder, a warning of sorts, that the world didn't know Christ, so they won't know us.

A) As great a promise as this is, and that itself cannot really be overstated, I also noticed that this is in part, an instruction. John says, "See..." Like so many songs from Kids Praise, Psalty the singing psalm book taught me this verse in the KJV. In that song/version, the word is translated "Behold..." I think that word especially, conveys that this is an imperative statement. I need to see it, to set my eyes on it, to behold it. God loves me so, so much, that He has made me His son. How great a love, indeed.

P) Father, my words will never correctly thank You for so great a love. In a way, I know that even that inability is a testament to Your grace. Even if I had the comprehension to fully see this grace, and even if I had the perfect words, it still wouldn't be enough to thank You. The only response, is that I would completely submit my life to You. Help me keep this beautiful promise in mind today. Let me heed the imperative word of John, that I would see the truth of Your love, that I would behold it, that I would keep my eyes focused on the reality, power, and purpose of Your love, in all the grace You have given it. Thank You, Father God. When the world turns against me, let me remember that they were first against Jesus. If I am treated like Him, then I am all the more thankful to walk as He walked, and suffer as He suffered, as long as You are glorified as He glorified You. Let Your will be done. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 08/17/2016; John 19:10-11

Today's reading: Jeremiah 23, 24, 25; John 19

S) "¹⁰ So Pilate *said to Him, 'You do not speak to me? Do You not know that I have authority to release You, and I have authority to crucify You?' ¹¹ Jesus answered, 'You would have no authority over Me, unless it had been given to you from above; for this reason he who delivered Me to you has the greater sin.'"

John 19:10-11 (NASB)

O) By his own admission, Pilate had the authority to release Jesus. Regardless of what the mob outside was crying, he held the authority. The thing about authority is, that person bears responsibility for their actions done with that authority. Jesus confirms the culpability of Pilate, when he said the "one who delivered" (referring to Judas, or else possibly Caiaphas) had the greater sin. That is to say, Pilate would indeed be guilty of a sin in his refusal to release Jesus, even if it was a lesser sin by comparison. Now, about the authority given to Pilate, it is a little unclear exactly who Jesus means had given that to Pilate. On the one hand, God is certainly above, and He sets rulers over people (see Romans 13:1). On the other hand Pilate was a kind of regent of Caesar, given political authority of the area by a higher ruler, with others above him in a heirarchy. In either case, I think Jesus was humbling Pilate, asserting that he wasn't as able as he maybe thought himself to be.

A) While I'm surely never going to have a hand such a dramatic display of authority or power, the temptation to think I am more able than I truly am, creeps up more often than I like. Specific to authority, I must remember that I am not sovereign in any arena. In my family, my authority is given, really, solely by God's ordination of family. I am the head of my wife, and I have authority over my children. That authority is not mine to wield however it pleases me. I am still an agent of Jesus Christ, who is my head, to lead, serve, protect, teach, and love my family. My authority is not something that allows me to make choices on my whim, but it puts me at crossroads to take responsibility in leading them, and to some degree as testing me. In virtually any other area where I may have authority, it would first of all still be from God, but also with other people involved. In those instances, my authority is very much like over my family, in that it's still not about me or my achieving. Authority at work, or in ministry, or any other way, is still going to be about glorifying Jesus Christ as my Lord. I've often said about work, that I want to make my boss look good. That has never been more true, than it is about my Authority, Jesus Christ. I want to exercise any authority I have, to make my Superior, my Savior, look good.

P) Father, You are mighty and wise. You alone are truly sovereign, God. Whatever authority I am ever given, let me fill that role with proper respect to the responsibility I bear. Above all else, let me be focused on my responsibility to glorify my Lord, Jesus Christ. Let Your will be done in me, and through me. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 08/16/2016; John 18:36-38

Today's reading: 2 Kings 24; Jeremiah 22; Psalm 112; John 18

S) "³⁶ Jesus answered, 'My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants would be fighting so that I would not be handed over to the Jews; but as it is, My kingdom is not of this realm.' ³⁷ Therefore Pilate said to Him, 'So You are a king?' Jesus answered, 'You say correctly that I am a king. For this I have been born, and for this I have come into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice.' ³⁸ Pilate *said to Him, 'What is truth?'
And when he had said this, he went out again to the Jews and *said to them, 'I find no guilt in Him.'"

John 18:36-38 (NASB)

O) Pilate had asked Jesus if He was king of the Jews, and Jesus asked if this was something Pilate wondered himself, or if he was asking on behalf of someone else (vv.33-34). After this, the response Pilate gave (v.35), almost gives the impression that he is already trying to keep himself out of this conflict. We know that his wife actually warned him not to get involved (see Matthew 27:19), and at the end of his involvement, Pilate tried to claim no fault of his own (see Matthew 27:24). However, Pilate certainly had the authority to release Jesus (see John 19:10), and yet his fear of men overwhelmed his better judgment. What really compels me about this particular section of verses, though, is the veiled confession of Pilate, when he voiced his, seemingly, rhetorical question, "What is truth?" This is a confession, at its core, that Pilate is struggling to understand life at its most basic level. When confronted with an absolute claim about truth, he is utterly lost. This is a deeply tragic glimpse into a man, whose confusion about truth has become all too familiar to my culture, today. And ultimately, Pilate was experiencing exactly what Jesus warned, that if we do not build upon the solid foundation, then when the storms of life come, our house will wash away.

A) Jesus is the Rock, the foundation that was laid, and Jesus is the Truth. If I am not built on Him, if I do not know Him, if I do not hear His voice, if I am not of His truth, then I will crumble in the face the storms of life, and I certainly will not be able to resist the crowds yelling at me to have their way with the things, for which, I am myself responsible. God has given me a sphere of responsibility, talents, authority. He expects me to do His will with those things, within that sphere. Contrastly, the world wants their way with my responsibilities. If I am not able to recognize the absolute truth, as God describes it, then I will be hopeless in my desire to fulfill God's purposes in my life. Without purpose, life loses meaning. Without meaning, life loses value. Without value, life loses life. It must begin somewhere, and in order to make sense of anything,  it must start with truth itself. I must acknowledge that truth, by definition, can never be relative or subjective. More than anything else, the deepest, most dependable, solid, and unchanging truth, is found in the holy Bible. What He had done, what He has said, and who He is. Starting with that, and using Jesus as my foundation for what is true, unalterable, and firm, only then will I be able to move outward to view the rest of the world with a frame of reference that keeps making sense, because I hold certain truths to be absolute.

P) Father, I know that my understanding, my ability to reason, my eyes being opened to the truth, this is only because of Your grace. Thank You, Lord God, for the dependable, unchanging, and absolute truth of who You are, and for revealing Yourself to creation. Help me, God, to better understand truth. Give me wisdom, to answer the question I hear unspoken in the words of people around me, when they are pleading to know, "What is truth?" Let me be compassionate and loving, and bold and firm, to explain that Jesus Christ is Truth. In Him alone, will they find the way and light, and the truth they so desperately seek. To You be all glory and praise and power, forever. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 08/13/2016; John 15:20

Today's reading: Jeremiah 13, 14, 15; John 15

S) "²⁰ Remember the word that I said to you, 'A slave is not greater than his master.' If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they kept My word, they will keep yours also."

John 15:20 (NASB)

O) Jesus was in the middle of a warning, that was also an encouragement. He was reminding the disciples that, if they are truly His and therefore like Him, the world will hate them, too. This in itself is a warning that continuing in His name would bring persecution. However, in this same passage He again promises the Holy Spirit to them, but also just in the verse above, He is assuring the apostles that their persecution for His sake is a sign that they are His, that they are unified with Him. If they are really His followers, the world will treat them like they treated Jesus.

A) To be clear, this warning still applies to millions of Christians very directly, whose faith in Jesus Christ puts them in harm's way. That's not the case in my country (and I thank God for that), although the culture has certainly turned from where it was, even just when I was a kid 25 years ago. I'll take some comfort in knowing that doing the right thing isn't going to be popular with the world, but if it's what Jesus would do, then it's popular with Him and I am in the same company as the apostles of Jesus. Remembering this warning is good, however, there is one more applicable part to this verse. The last line of the verse is still primarily about the world that hates Jesus, but it has a sort of inverted instruction in it. That is to say, Jesus is saying that if I want to keep His words (obey, respect, and honor His words), then I must also keep the words of His apostles. This is further evidence that the writings of the New Testament, beyond just the gospels, is authoritative.

P) Father, holy and great is Your name. You are my Protector, my Healer, my Provider, and my God. I want to worship, honor, and praise You better, God. I want to glorify You with my whole being, more consistently. I confess that I am still prone to distraction and self-worship. Help me do a better job keeping all of Your word, Lord. Help me keep the words of the Bible in mind, the instructions, the warnings, the displays of who You are. Let me focus myself more on You, even while I am doing other things. Help me to be mindful of You. Please forgive me for my sins, and let my repentance glorify Your mercy and grace. Let Your will be done. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 08/05/2016; John 7:47-49

Today's reading: 2 Kings 23; 2 Chronicles 35; John 7

S) "⁴⁷ The Pharisees then answered them, 'You have not also been led astray, have you? ⁴⁸ No one of the rulers or Pharisees has believed in Him, has he? ⁴⁹ But this crowd which does not know the Law is accursed.'"

John 7:47-49 (NASB)

O) The Pharisees had sent officers to arrest Jesus, but they were unable (v.30). When they came and reported to the Pharisees, and they noted that no one had ever spoken like Jesus, they responded with the above words. It is noteworthy, not just the words they replied, but the tone, the attitude, the posture of their reply. These were leaders in their community, religious men who were supposed to shepherd their people, in a difficult social and political time. Yet, they had completely missed the Christ. Not only had they, themselves missed Him, but they were trying to prevent others from recognizing Him as well.

A) It is a very difficult thing, to realize we can't trust the wisdom, discernment, or motives of a person who should be leading us. I've never experienced this firsthand in the church, but I know it happens. The most notable thing about the response from the Pharisees, I think, is the unadulterated venom in their words. When an untrustworthy leader is afraid, as they were, they don't just defend their own view, they attack all others. The Pharisees here attacked the character of both, the men reporting to them, and everyone else in the crowds, while appealing to their own self-righteous standing. Those are red flags that I must beware, if I am ever bringing up a topic with a leader in the church. As Christians, we should not operate in fear, in anyway. Most especially, though, we should never fear of truth is being questioned, because we are confident that truth will prevail. In just the same way, if anyone I'm leading, whether that's my family or anyone else, if they have questions about an unpopular view possibly being true, I must be willing to hear them out. If it is a false doctrine, or bad teaching, I must address it with love and compassion, not vitriol and animosity.

P) Father, thank You for the reliable, unchanging, authoritative truth of Scripture. Please continue to open my eyes and ears, that I may discern between truth and lies. Help me to recognize false teaching, to address it with gentleness and empathy. Help me to also recognize bad leadership, if it is ever unwilling to hear me out or if leaders respond combative let. Help me to always desire truth in humility. I want to honor You as Your servant, as I seek to know You more and better. Let Uour will be done. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 07/29/2016; 2 Peter 3:15-16

Today's reading: Isaiah 57, 58, 59; Psalm 103; 2 Peter 3

S) "¹⁵ and regard the patience of our Lord as salvation; just as also our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given him, wrote to you, ¹⁶ as also in all his letters, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which the untaught and unstable distort, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures, to their own destruction."

2 Peter 3:15-16 (NASB)

O) There are a few things going on with this passage. For one thing, context is showing us that Peter is again warning against false teaching. This time, he's addressing concerns about when exactly Jess will return. He advises us in the previous verse, that if we're looking forward to a reconciliation with Christ, and the new heavens and new earth, then we should be living a holy life. There is no delay with God, only His patience with humanity, for the sake of salvation (that's where we come in with thee passage above). Next, we see Peter affirming the teachings of Paul, while also warning against those who distort his teaching because it is apparently too difficult for them. This is then, both a warning about those who might deceive us (see also v.17), and a warning not to be one of the untaught and unstable. Part 2b of this, if we could call it that, is the possibility that Peter is even asserting that the letters Paul wrote are themselves Scripture. That is, that they have the same weight, status, or authority as the Old Testament, itself being God-breathed (see 2 Timothy 3:16). This last point could certainly be contested, but it is certainly a notable possibility.

A) The last observation might have the least application. It's no hill to die on. For years, I simply took it for granted that the Nee Testament was as God-breathed as the Old Testament, although the term "Scripture" used in the NT is never self-referential. Because the NT carries the authority of the apostles of Jesus, who themselves carry His authority, they are no less authoritative. This is really a semantic argument, and because of my personality, I must be careful not to be too distracted by such a thing. The much more important part, is that Peter is warning me to be holy as I wait for the return of my Lord (just as Jesus taught). He is warning me that some of the Bible is difficult to understand, and I must gain education about it (although it doesn't need to be of a formal type), and I must not be an unstable man. That term, "unstable," only appears a few places in the Bible. James warned that a man who doubts is double-minded and unstable, being tossed about by winds. That calls to mind the warning Jesus gave, that He must be my foundation, if I am to withstand the storms of life. The more I am standing firmly on Him as my foundation, the stronger my faith, the better I will understand Scripture (both OT and NT). This is really another example of the wholistic nature of my faith in Christ. It really must encompass every part of my life, of my thinking, of my practices. The more I am completely His, the more I am found in Him, the more strength and security I have.

P) Father, thank You for the Scriptures. Thank You for preserving and providing the recorded words of the prophets and apostles of Jesus. Thank You for confirming for us, Your will and words, that I may know You better. Thank You for Your Spirit, to increase my understanding of who You are, and who I am to be in Christ. Help me to be careful with Your word, God. Let me approach it humbly. Help me to not be distracted by petty arguments or debates about semantics. Let Your word feed my soul. Let Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 07/28/2016; 2 Peter 2:1-3

Today's reading: Isaiah 53, 54, 55, 56; 2 Peter 2

S) "¹ But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will also be false teachers among you, who will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing swift destruction upon themselves. ² Many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of the truth will be maligned; ³ and in their greed they will exploit you with false words; their judgment from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep."

2 Peter 2:1-3 (NASB)

O) Peter comes with some very strong words against false teachers in this chapter. The whole of this chapter is all but dedicated to this topic alone. When read all together, he leaves no room for doubt, that false teachers will incur some very strong judgment. Much of what he describes in these opening verses, alarmingly, I hear happening in churches right now. There are movements of people actually denying the lordship of Jesus Christ. There are groups who deny that we should confess our sins. Leadership in churches seem inevitably prone to falling into some kind of sexual sin, which becomes public, and invariably calls the attention of skeptics. Not only sexual sensuality, but other forms are tearing their sinful heads, as well. There are churches in the Charismatic Movement, chasing spirituality, which makes a mockery of the Holy Spirit, with things like being "drunk" in the Spirit, or even recently claiming to be "high" in the Spirit. Finally, but not at all most newly, there are those who use the gospel as a means of gaining money. There are things like the "seed faith" movement, claiming that if you send money to their organization, God will send you more money back. Or people asking for donations, and in return they promise to send "manna" or "heavenly gold dust" or other such unverifiable, temporal, and ultimately idolatrous items. Peter promises that God is not ignorant, and their judgment will indeed come to them.

A) The question for me, then, is what to do with this. What do I do in the face of false teaching. I really think there are three main things to do. First and foremost, I must leave their judgment to God alone. It is not up to me at all, to bring about the demise or downfall of a false teacher or a false prophet. Certainly, my heart is like my Father's, that I want everyone to be reconciled to Him, and that none should perish. I will pray that they experience a swift destruction (however that might look) that will bring them to the truth and to repentance. Second, and this is really seen in v.2, I think, I want to realign the way of the truth. One of the biggest problems that is presented when the gospel is perverted, is that it makes it harder to talk about the gospel with skeptics. The antidote to such poisoned thinking, is for me to show people the truth of the gospel at work in my own life. For me to live with moral integrity, and for me to walk in the fruit of the Spirit, this is a matter of glorifying the name of Jesus Christ, and showing people who He actually is with the reality my life in His life. Third, as Peter does in this entire chapter, I must warn other Christians. As much damage as can be done to the those outside the church, when false teachers introduce destructive heresies, it is the church that is at the most risk. After all, v.2 warns that it will be some in the church who follow the sensuality of those false teachers, and because of that failing, the way of truth will be maligned. My brothers and sisters must be warned against false doctrine, that can severely damage them as much as it can malign the gospel in the eyes of the skeptic. This is a critical element to this third point, though: just as Peter is apparently reluctant to name names, I must also be careful not to condemn specific people for what they teach. This is a delicate balance with the first response in this application. If there is a preacher, proclaiming a false view of the gospel, I must be careful not to warn people to be against that man, but to be diligent about recognizing the false doctrine he is presenting. I do not have to name names, which really gets dangerously close to gossip, for me to be able to warn people about false teaching. That can really start with pointing people back to what the Bible says in itself, about false teachers and false doctrines. False prophets and evil religious leadership has virtually always existed. The Bible talks about this systemic problem, going well back into the Old Testament. Referring people to these passages, and imploring my brothers and sisters to align themselves with the truth of Scripture, and to feed on it daily, that is the absolute best way to protect against false teaching. Second to that, I should absolutely warn against the specific, contemporary, popular lies that I hear permeating churches across the globe, and certainly more locally (in the country, or even my own city, as it happens). In all of this, my goal must be firmly set on glorifying God. I want people to know Him for who He truly is.

P) Father, thank You for giving me wisdom, some amount of wisdom. Thank You for softening my heart to the gospel, and opening my eyes and ears to the truth. I pray that my heart is ever after Your truth, and nothing less. May I never be deceived by false teachers and bad doctrine. Help me to lead my wife and kids well, to protect them from such evil influences. Let me teach my children to be wary of such insidious leaders. Help me to be bold about speaking truth in these situations, but also protect my heart that I am doing so humbly. Let me always leave room for Your grace, and Your vengeance, according to Your will and timing. Let me live a life that honors You, and brings people to the truth of the gospel. Help me to speak against false teaching, instead of against people. Let Your will be done in my life, and in the world. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.