Christmas Treasures – 1. Mary’s Treasures

But Mary treasured up all these things,
pondering them in her heart.  Luke 2: 19  

Those who study the life of Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ by the Holy Spirit, have discovered that she possessed many qualities worthy of our attention and emulation.  One of her qualities in particular was that she apparently treasured God’s Word in her heart.  Our own recent devotional meditations have revealed several of Mary’s character qualities.  What follows are six meditations that we hope will encourage you during these final days of Advent leading to Christmas:

Day 1:  Holiness: Pure in Heart
Scripture:  Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph – Luke 1: 26-27a 
Read:  Read Psalm 24: 3-5
Consider:
After the angelic announcement to her, Mary received the news of Joseph’s dream; then, the visit of the shepherds, and the prophetic claims from Simeon and the prophetess Anna.  Mary certainly had many “things” to “treasure in her heart”--more than any mother in all of human history.   But, as we celebrate the treasured revelations and experiences surrounding Mary, we must not forget what may have been her greatest treasure—her purity.  Having kept herself a virgin in a worldly culture suggests that Mary also cherished many other godly virtues deep in her heart.  She was a young woman “pure in heart.”  All indications are that she was sincere, honest, free from deceit, and single-mindedly devoted in her love for God.  Her Son would later speak a Beatitude in keeping with today’s Scripture reading (above): Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God (Matthew 5: 8).  
Application:
Have you ever wished that God would speak to you clearly as He did to Mary and Joseph?  Generally, God does not speak to us audibly or through angels.  But God has given us His Son, Jesus our Savior, who died on a Roman cross to pay the penalty for our sin; then, rose again so that whoever believes in Him will have Eternal Life (John 3: 16).  By personal faith that Jesus is who He claimed to be, we receive the Life of His Holy Spirit to abide in us, to teach us, and to speak to us as we read from the pages of the Bible, God’s Holy Word.  Are you seeking the privilege of intimately abiding in God’s holy sanctuary through the blood of Christ?  We hope these devotional meditations will increase your desire to pursue holiness and intimacy with God as expressed in Psalm 24: 3-5.

Day 2:  Reverence for God
Scripture:  And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one! The Lord is with you.”  But she was greatly troubled…” – Luke 1: 28-29a
Read:  Luke 1: 5-12; 26-29
Consider: 
Both the Zacharias, father of John the Baptist, and Mary, virgin mother of Jesus experienced great fear when the angel appeared to them (Luke 1: 12 and Luke 1: 29).  Their fear was typical of Bible personalities who encountered the glory of God directly or through His messengers (e.g. Isaiah 6: 1-5; Daniel 10: 7).  Likely, their fear was stirred by their sudden encounter with something unknown, glorious, and holy.  Their immediate response was to recognize their own unholiness.  Only God is holy.  He is altogether unique and “other” compared to our human, imperfect natures.  I am the LORD, and there is no other; Besides Me there is no God (Isaiah 45: 5).  Although Scripture portrays Mary as a godly young woman, it is clear that God’s choice of Mary was not because she had earned His grace by her good works.  Instead, because of God’s sovereign choice to favor Mary with His gift of grace that was already at work in her life, she was considered “highly favored" as God's chosen one to bear His Son into this world. 
Application:
Have you ever received a gift or blessing which you clearly recognized as undeserved and beyond your ability to earn?  Likely, you felt an overwhelming sense of joy and thankfulness. In like manner, we ought to respond in reverent joy and praise for the Gift of God’s redemption which makes us “favored in His sight.”  Salvation and New Life in Christ is the greatest Christmas Gift ever!  Mary’s reverent response began as one who “was greatly troubled…” and “she pondered” what Gabriel had said (Luke 1: 29).  But then, in her humble awareness of God’s greatness, Mary exclaimed, “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord.  And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior (Luke 1: 46-47).  Isn’t God worthy of our worship?  The Apostle Paul exclaimed:  ...having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved [Son] (Ephesians 1: 5-6).  Praise Him today!

Day 3:  Courage and Submission
Scripture:  And Mary said to the angel, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?” – Luke 1: 34
Read:  Luke 1: 30-38
Consider:
Fathers and mothers reading this sentence will remember your response upon learning that you were about to have a child.  We experienced a flood of emotions.  First, we were in denial, then excited, but humbled and a bit fearful.  But, can any of us imagine how Mary must have felt?  As a young virgin girl, she is approached by a glorious angel who exclaims that she is “highly favored;” and then Gabriel informs her that, without any sexual union with a man, she will bear a Son whom she must name “the Lord is salvation” (i.e. Jesus).  What’s more, said Gabriel, this Son will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High (Jesus’s divine nature); and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David (Jesus’s human genealogy); and…His kingdom will have no end (Jesus, Emmanuel, “Eternal God with us”)(Luke 1: 32-33).

Application:
Perhaps while Mary’s head was still spinning from this amazing revelation, she returned to her own reality and asked the angel, How can this be, since I am a virgin (v. 34)?   After the angelic announcement of her supernatural conception, fear and confusion enveloped Mary as she would try to understand, let alone explain to her peers, what would appear to be a miraculous pregnancy--one without an earthly father of her child!  Unwed pregnancies still remain a scourge today.  How would you have responded?  How do you suppose Mary was able to say, Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word (v. 38).  What might God be asking you to do that requires that you trust in His Word?  Reread Luke 1: 30-38 and respond as God’s Spirit leads you.  

Day 4:  Treasuring Family
Scripture:  Now at this time Mary arose and went in a hurry to the hill country, to a city of Judah...and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth – Luke 1: 39-40
Read:  Luke 1: 39-45

Consider:
Mary had just received an angelic announcement and prophecy that would forever change her life.  What would Mary do now as she wrestled with the emotions of joy, fear, wonder, and confusion?  Some of us might have gone into hiding until we could gain composure.  But Mary had learned to treasure her family.  Now bearing her Savior and King within her womb, Mary needed her family more than ever.  So, she immediately traveled south to the hill country of Judea to stay with her relative, Elizabeth.  There, she was greeted by Elizabeth, by Elizabeth’s unborn baby John who “leaped in [her] womb for joy,” and by the Spirit of God who assured Mary through a joyous greeting and affirmation from Spirit-filled Elizabeth.
Application:
Mary chose the path of submission to God by the faith He provided to help her face an uncertain future.  Wisely, she also chose to not to walk alone, but with the support of her family.  Our Scripture passage for today illustrates clearly the benefit of shared faith and mutual encouragement between Mary and Elizabeth.  How much do you rely on your biological family and spiritual family, God's church, to strengthen you in your spiritual walk?  How will you try to enhance these relationships during this Advent season?

Day 5:  Treasuring God’s Word
Scripture:  For the Mighty One has done great things for me; And holy is His name. “AND HIS MERCY IS UPON GENERATION AFTER GENERATION TOWARD THOSE WHO FEAR HIM. – Luke 1: 49-50
Read:  Luke 1: 39-55

Consider: 
In our Scripture for today, Luke describes for us Elizabeth’s Spirit-filled greeting to Mary upon her arrival (v. 39-45).  Immediately, Mary bursts into reverent praise to God, “the Mighty One [who had] done great things for [her].”  Mary’s expressions of worship and praise to God, recorded in verses 46-55, compose what we now call “the Magnificat” (i.e. "[My soul] magnifies [the Lord].").  According to Ryrie, the Magnificat contains no less than 15 discernable quotations from the Old Testament!  This wonderful, Spirit-filled outpouring of praise by Mary tells us that she had become very familiar with God’s Word, likely not from learning in the Jewish synagogue, but from teaching in her home and in community gatherings.  Secondly, Mary was accustomed to prayer and praise in communion with God through His Holy Spirit.
Application:
How have you responded while reading and meditating upon Mary’s “Magnificat?”  Is your relationship to God such that you personally know the joy that overflows from within you when you lift praises to God as He speaks to you through His Word and Spirit?  Can you identify steps you ought to take to grow in your personal knowledge of God and submission to His will for you?  Maybe we can all follow the example of Mary and the psalmist in “treasuring God’s Word” as expressed below:
Your word I have treasured in my heart,
That I may not sin against You. - Psalm 119: 11

Day 6:  Sharing His Treasures
Scripture:  And when the days for their purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him up to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord ...and to offer a sacrifice according to what was said in the Law of the Lord, “A PAIR OF TURTLEDOVES OR TWO YOUNG PIGEONS.”– Luke 2: 22-24 
Read:  Read Leviticus 5: 7
Consider:
Thank you for investing time already in our five days of devotional meditations.  Our original intention was to present only those five, and we published them two days ago.  But one of us awakened this morning with a clear conviction from God's Spirit who pointed to the Scriptures now included in this "Day 6."  Let us explain why.  Mary and Joseph became the earthly parents of Jesus during a cold night in a smelly stable, and they laid the Christ child in a manger.  We know that Mary and Joseph possessed little in terms of "earthly treasures."  We know this because when they obeyed what God had instructed in the Scripture for today from Leviticus, they chose to purchase two young pigeons which is the offering of those who "cannot afford a lamb." 
Application:
Herein lies the reason we were stirred from a warm, comfortable bed this morning:  We were confronted with the realization that we need to "ponder" what we are treasuring.  To "treasure" means to value greatly, even value it most --above all else!  Although Mary was a virtuous woman who treasured and pondered things that truly mattered--i.e.  her purity, reverent worship of God, submission to Him and to His Word, and loving her family-- still, she and Joseph had very little in terms of material or earthly treasures.  Granted, neither their justification in God's spiritual economy, nor ours, requires that we "give all our possessions to feed the poor, or surrender our bodies to be burned (1 Corinthians 13: 3).  But Mary and Joseph demonstrated their willingness to sacrifice everything God required of them and they did so quietly, humbly, and without calling attention to their sacrifices.

And so, we have added this "Day 6" meditation not to lay a guilt trip on you this Christmas. But instead, to confess that Abby and I have some pondering to do about where our true treasures lie in this world.  Not that we are confusing "rich" and "poor" simply on an earthly, material scale; but instead, to reconsider whether, by our stewardship of earthly time, earthly treasures, and talents, we are missing opportunities to share and experience the kind of love and compassion that caused God to give His greatest treasure--the One who became poor on every scale of measure so that we might become rich as He defines "richness" (2 Corinthians 8: 9).  

We Thank You with a hope that our devotional meditations have been an encouragement to you.  We ask that you pray for us as you also prayerfully ponder our 6 meditations.  The number "6" in  Scripture signifies human incompleteness without God.  Truly, our work is not done, and our lives remain incomplete when we mistake or misplace our true treasures.  

Care to Respond?  If you have questions or wish to leave a “Comment,” either publicly (see link below), or privately (E-mail:  silviusj@gmail.com) please do so.  If you’d like to catch up on our family experiences in 2025, go to “Christmas Treasures – 2. Our Family Treasures” by clicking HERE.
May God bless and keep you and yours and give you a joyous Christmas and New Year.

A Winsome Witness: 1. Proper Salting

“Yummy!  This is very tasty!”
“However, it may need just a pinch of salt.”

Most of us have a favorite dish, one that we find enjoyable, especially when it is seasoned to our liking.  But can we agree, there is something even more enjoyable than well prepared food?  We love the blessing of “fitly spoken words”-- a warm cheerful greeting, an assuring facial expression, or gracious words of comfort.  Savoring the joy of such warm encounters encourages our faith and renews our purpose for living.

On the other hand, many of us find it enjoyable to be givers of timely words of encouragement.  What a blessing it is to us when we can lift up a troubled soul and serve them with a taste of hope from God’s Word.

You ARE “the Salt of the Earth”
Jesus gave a choice title for those of us who, by faith, have become members of His Body, the Church.  He said, “You are the salt of the Earth (Matthew 5: 13).”  Notice that Jesus didn’t command His Church to BE “the salt of the Earth.”  Instead, when we obey Christ’s call as members of His Body, we ARE the salt of the Earth.  But what did Jesus mean by calling His disciples “the salt of the Earth?”

Surprising Properties of Salt:  By examining the physical properties and chemical nature of common “table salt,” we can appreciate why Jesus chose to call His Church “the salt of the Earth.”  Although chemists list many different kinds of salts, for our purposes, we will use the term “salt” to mean common “table salt,” or sodium chloride, symbolized by “NaCl.”  This form of salt is very abundant on Earth where it is often mined from salt deposits.  In addition, our vast oceans contain an average of 3.5% sodium chloride.  In fact, evaporation of ocean water also helps meet our demands for salt.

We usually think of salt as a safe and tame crystalline substance that, when added to our food in appropriate amounts, amazingly enhances the flavor.  But there is absolutely nothing safe and tame about the chemical formation of sodium chloride!

Sodium chloride is formed when atoms of sodium (Na) chemically react with chlorine gas (Cl₂) as shown in the photo of the reaction in progress.  Sodium is a soft, silvery-white metal that can explode into flame, especially when it comes into contact with reactive substances like chlorine gas.  And, chlorine gas is a poisonous, yellowish gas with an odor similar to Chlorox®.  Think of it!  Our edible table salt is formed through a violent chemical reaction between two very reactive substances—metallic sodium and poisonous chlorine gas.  The chemical shorthand of the reaction does not show that bursts of light and heat energy are given off when sodium chloride is formed.  To watch a video of the explosive reaction, click HERE.

Amazingly, all of this “fireworks” involves the transfer of one tiny electron (negative charge) from each sodium atom (Na) to a chlorine atom (Cl), resulting in a sodium ion (Na⁺) and a chloride ion (Cl^-).  These two oppositely charged ions can combine like opposite poles of a bar magnet to form NaCl.  When these ions combine with many other Na⁺ and Cl^- ions, they form a very orderly lattice work, visible as the white crystalline nature of table salt as it appears in our salt shakers.

As we noted earlier, Jesus calls His Church “the salt of the earth” (Matthew 5: 13).  By this He meant that those who are committed to follow His teachings in the power of His Holy Spirit could not help but add a pleasant “seasoning” both within the assembly of believers and toward the surrounding culture.  But Jesus may have had more benefits in mind when He gave this title.  Although we will risk going beyond what Jesus intended, what follows are several applications that we hope are consistent with the biblical narrative:

Proper seasoning with salt during cooking enhances the flavor.  But too much salt can make our food inedible.  Our speech ought to be timely and appropriate, and if possible, reflect the character of Christ.  Just as properly seasoned food should not taste like salt, so also when our speech is “seasoned with salt” we should not be elevating ourselves; but instead, we ought to be “adorning the Gospel” of Christ. by the manner in which we speak and act (Titus 2: 10). 

Proverbs 25: 11 says, “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver.”  According to the Berean Study Bible, the writer is teaching us that when we speak words that are timely and appropriate (“fitly spoken”), they are precious because they promote peace, healing, and beauty.  Such words are pleasing to the ears just as well-crafted gold ornaments placed in silver are a delight to our eyes. 
Prayer:  Father God, help me to love your Word and to allow its living, powerful action within me to produce words spoken fitly in time and place like salt adding flavor to well prepared food.   Help me to image the character of Christ so that others will want to taste and see that the Lord is good (Psalm 34: 8). Amen.

“Blessed are the gentle (meek),” Jesus said (Matthew 5: 5).  Recall that sodium metal is dangerous to handle; and, breathing chlorine can endanger our skin and destroy our respiratory systems.  And when they react chemically to form salt (NaCl), considerable “fireworks” are produced.  Jesus, the Creator of the universe, knows all about the violent chemistry that forms salt.  He also knows what is in the heart of every man and woman, boy and girl; namely, a sin nature that can be very explosive and toxic. 

Jesus called two sons of Zebedee, James and John, to be among His twelve disciples.  Both men grew to love Jesus; especially John who became known as “the disciple whom Jesus loved” (John 13: 23).  Yet, Jesus had to restrain both James and John when they wanted to call down fire upon several Samaritans who had shown disrespect toward Jesus (Luke 9: 51-56).  After this, Jesus called James and John “the sons of thunder.”  We too, may have strong convictions that can explode into harsh words and behavior.  We can only be the salt of the Earth if we exercise the spiritual fruit of peace, patience, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5: 22-23).  Like sodium chloride, we have a violent history and a tendency to explode.  Only when we yield to the Spirit in us can we be the salt Jesus desires as we produce the fruit of His gentleness. 
Prayer:  Lord Jesus, you are my meek and gentle example as shown by your behavior.  Help me to respond like you did, even when you were mistreated verbally and physically.  Help me to yield to your Spirit, the Spirit of Christ who lives within me, to produce the fruit of your gentleness and self-control.  Amen.

The Church is a Preservative.  Before the days of refrigeration, meat and other foods could be preserved by salt curing.  Salt curing applies the principle of osmosis to draw water out of the meat and the cells of any microbes that would otherwise grow on the meat and cause spoilage.  Likewise, Christ-followers are “salt of the Earth” when their speech and actions present a purifying and preserving effect on those around them.  In a culture beset by moral and spiritual decay, Christ calls and equips His followers to be a preservative against cultural decay. 
Prayer:  Father, help me to pursue your holiness and purity lest I be like “salt that becomes tasteless… [and is] no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men (Matthew 5: 13b).”

Peacemakers dissolve tension between people.  This truth reminds us of another amazing property of salt.  We have all seen salt crystals disappear when they dissolve in water.  Water molecules dislodge and separate the Na⁺ and Cl^- ions from the salt crystal lattice. This is an amazing feat considering that salt crystals will not melt unless heated to 1474^oF (801^oC)!  Like an obstinate, hard-hearted person who is combative or difficult to befriend, NaCl cannot be “melted” without a great expenditure of heat energy.  Meanwhile, simply adding water to salt can easily dissolve the hard crystals. Water molecules surround each Na+ and Cl- ion to form hydration shells that coat the ions and keep them from precipitating out.

No doubt you have used a saline solution of dilute sodium chloride in water for dry eyes, to store your contact lenses, or for nasal irrigation.  Saline is also given by injection or intravenously and is used to clean wounds.  Again, given the dangerous properties of sodium and chlorine, it is interesting that a sodium chloride solution is used in contact with our most delicate tissues to bring soothing relief. 
Prayer:   Jesus, Prince of Peace, help me to be a peacemaker.  When I encounter a head-hearted person who is brash and impolite, help me to avoid speech that “raises the temperature” of our conversation.  Instead, help my words to dissolve the tension just as water melts and dissolves the hard salt crystals and creates a soothing saline solution.

Being “Salt” from the Heart
It is obvious that even our favorite dish must be properly seasoned to be pleasant to our taste.  The human tongue has been created with an amazing capacity for precise detection of various tastes.  According to researchers, the human tongue can detect at least five different tastes.  In addition to salt and sweet, we can taste sour, bitter, and savory (umami).

Our tongues contain tiny bumps on the surface called papillae.  Within each papilla are hundreds of taste buds.  And, within each taste bud, there are from 50 to 100 chemoreceptor cells that help us taste food and beverages.  The chemoreceptor cells detect and translate chemical stimuli into neurological signals that convey the type of taste and intensity to the brain.  Initially, scientists believed that each of the five tastes were detected by a specific region of the tongue which they carefully mapped (see diagram on right).  However, more recently there is evidence that each of the five tastes are detected by multiple locations on the tongue.

In addition to enabling us to taste and enjoy food, our tongues also aid in chewing and swallowing food.  And, relevant to this blog, our tongues enable us to speak in words and sentences.  According to the Word of God, the quality of our speech determines the degree to which we can be “salt of the Earth.”  The Apostle Paul gave us a description of a major part of our function as “salt of the Earth:” 

Let your speech always be with grace,
as though seasoned with salt,
so that you will know
how you should respond to each person.
                                    -- Colossians 4: 6

Just think about this for a moment.  Do we realize that Jesus Christ, the Creator of our tongues, our sense of taste, and our ability to swallow food, and our ability to speak in words and sentences also calls us “the salt of the Earth.” Indeed, we are the salt when we “speak with grace” so that our words will be as food well-seasoned with salt.  Amazing!  With our tongue we can taste and enjoy food that is well seasoned with salt; and, with our tongue we can also speak words that bless others like food well-seasoned with salt.

But how can we “speak with grace” when we all know from experience that our tongue can be as James describes it, untamable and “a restless evil and full of deadly poison” (James 3: 8).  James continues:  Does a fountain send out from the same opening both fresh and bitter water? Can a fig tree, my brethren, produce olives, or a vine produce figs?  Nor can salt water produce fresh (vv. 11-12).  Each of these contrasts suggest that the words from our tongue, whether gracious or otherwise, are determined by something deeper than the tongue per se.  Jesus explained how it is our heart, or our character, that governs our words and actions (see text box above).

Responding to Our Calling
If you are a Christ-follower, having been born again by faith in His deity, death, and resurrection to defeat sin and death, you too have a high calling.  “You are the salt of the Earth,” said Jesus (Matthew 5: 13).  As Christ-followers, we are called to be witnesses to the Gospel (“Good News”) by our well-seasoned conversation and acts of kindness.  Such a witness will have a purifying, preserving, and soothing effect as appropriate on our morally decaying culture. 

But we will only retain proper saltiness and the purity of it if we continually surrender our hearts and “present our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God…and do not allow ourselves to be conformed to this world [system of thought], but allow ourselves to be transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12: 1-2).”

I hope it has become apparent from this blog that I sense a continual need to submit to God so that He can work in my heart and in my speech.  I want my words and my actions to be the right seasoning of salt for a “yummy experience” so others will want to “taste and see that the Lord is good (Psalm 34: 8).”  It’s all about Him, not about me, even if it takes a long time during which my saltiness is rejected.  Hopefully, this blog has provided valuable salt in the right number of “pinches” to make it worthy and helpful for God’s Spirit to use it in your life. 

Read More on "A Winsome Witness"
Read Part 2, "Being Salt in Controversy," click HERE.

Helpmates Can Help or Hinder Their Husbands

Do you remember the last time you went “all-out” to join family and friends in an enthusiastic celebration of an event or perhaps an exciting sports competition?  In 2 Samuel 6:12-19 we read the account of King David leading his nation in extravagant, corporate worship of God.  The focus of the occasion was a joyous procession in which the ark of the covenant was being brought up to Jerusalem.  King David, apparently caught up in a spirit of humility and worship of God, took off his royal robe and … wearing only a linen cloth around his waist, danced with all his might to honor the LORD. (v. 14, Good News Translation).

Immediately following this joyous experience of worship, David returns to his home and family.  What we learn from this brief account from Scripture are important lessons God may have for both husbands and wives.  From 2 Samuel 6: 20, we read: 

When David returned home to bless his household, Michal, daughter of Saul came out to meet him and said, “How the king of Israel has distinguished himself today, going around half-naked in full view of the slave girls of his servants as any vulgar fellow would! 

What a let-down for David to hear her accusation from his helpmate, suggesting that he was being prideful, selfish, and even immoral.  Michal’s accusation hurled at David must have been particularly hurtful to him considering that he had returned home to bless his household (v. 20) and to invite her to share in the rich blessing he had experienced. 

But there is even more evidence that David was Spirit-filled and held pure motives in all of his actions.  Scholars believe that prior to this occasion, David had devoted his time in personal worship of God to compose an inspiring song especially for the processional—possibly the song now recorded as Psalm 24.  When you read Psalm 24, perhaps you will realize the enthusiasm David possessed-- an enthusiasm that may well have still been lifting his spirit upon his return to Michal.

Although David's motives and behavior were pure before the Lord, Michal’s were not.  Second Samuel 6: 16 records for us that Michal saw king David leaping and dancing before the LORD; and she despised him in her heart.  Michal’s sin of regarding her husband as unworthy of her respect had been first conceived in her heart (James 1: 15) as she watched him worshiping from her window.  By the time David arrived to share his enthusiasm and blessing upon her, Michal’s sin was ready to be birthed.  As we read above, she expressed her loathing by attacking her husband unjustly.  Here is the account of her stunned husband’s response in defense of his motives and behavior:

David said to Michal, 'It was before the Lord , who chose me rather than your father or anyone from his house when he appointed me ruler over the Lord ’s people Israel—I will celebrate before the Lord . I will become even more undignified than this, and I will be humiliated in my own eyes.  But by these slave girls you spoke of, I will be held in honor.'  And Michal daughter of Saul had no children to the day of her death (2 Samuel 6: 21-23).

What can we learn from this Scriptural account that began in a “spiritual mountaintop” for a husband named David and ended with a very disappointing reception at home by his wife, Michal?  First, if we consider God’s plan that a wife is to serve as a helpmate to her husband, and the husband is to love his wife as Christ loves the church, then we can conclude that David and Michal’s conversation was not in sync with God’s plan first revealed in Genesis 2. 

In Genesis 2: 19-20, we learn about one of Adam’s first responsibilities as a steward of the creation God had prepared for him.  God assigned Adam to study the animal creatures of the garden and to name them according to his understanding of each kind:

The man gave names to all the cattle, and to the birds of the sky, and to every beast of the field, but for Adam there was not found a helper suitable for him.  

The significance of God’s homework assignment to Adam goes far beyond simply labeling the animals with names, or even developing an understanding of how each creature related to Adam ecologically, important as that lesson is.  According to the Pulpit Commentary, Adam’s ‘assignment’ to name the animals …was meant to reveal his loneliness. The longing for a partner was already deeply seated in his nature, and the survey of the animals, coming to him probably in pairs, could not fail to intensify that secret hunger of his soul, and perhaps evoke it into conscious operation.

Ellicott’s Commentary provides additional insight on God’s provision of a helpmate for the man.  Referring to Adam’s “naming exercise,” Ellicott’s Commentary adds, But while thus he could tame many, and make them share his dwelling, he found among them no counterpart of himself, capable of answering his thoughts and of holding with him rational discourse.

From these commentators on Genesis 2: 19-20, we can grasp a sense of God's intention for the supportive and complementary role of the wife as a helpmate to the husband.  One implied role of the helpmate is to serve as a spiritual accountability partner for the husband. There are times when our wives observe and discern by observation more than we as husbands can discern.  Therefore, our wives can have a valuable role in cautioning us about behavior that could allow us to fall victim to pride, selfishness, and even immoral behavior toward another person.

However, as we have seen, that was not the case in the situation of David's behavior and how Michal responded.  Her own heart became jealous and vengeful toward her husband, thus allowing Satan to gain a foothold in an otherwise valuable accountability relationship between husband and wife.  Thus, we can see the importance of developing and maintaining a relationship of unconditional love, trust, and humility between husband and wife.

Although the Bible does shy away from including accounts of troubled marriages, it also provides several examples of good marriages.  Joseph and Mary (Luke 1-2) were able to overcome numerous difficulties, especially developing trust in each other and facing public scorn over Mary’s supposed immorality.  Priscilla and Aquila were tremendous examples as Christ-like partners in the ministry of the Gospel with the Apostle Paul (e.g. Acts 18:26).  In the Old Testament, the story of Ruth shows the great redemptive love of God at work as Boaz becomes a kinsman redeemer by arranging to marry the poor, alien widow named Ruth.

Personally, my wisdom and intelligence are no match for that of most experts on Christian marriage, including biblical counselors with whom Abby and I have conferred on several occasions.  So, I will simply write from my own personal experience of having been blessed for nearly 50 years of life with the helpmate God has provided for me.  She has been a wonderful wife and helpmate.  Together with God’s provision, we have enjoyed a “resonance of soul and spirit.”  When we submit together to the love and will of God, His Spirit produces in us a resonance of mind, body, spirit, and soul.  This “resonance” is like that which is produced with a musical tuning fork.  When the fork strikes a solid object, its vibrations can be passed on to another object and the two will “hum together” with the same frequency.   In contrast, when a tuning fork is struck against a cardboard box, there will be little or no resonance--no sense of oneness or correspondence between the two.

During the times that Abby and I have relied together upon the love of God and have been committed together to abide in His Word, the Bible; and have sought together the regular filling of His Holy Spirit according to Ephesians 5: 18-20, we have been able to submit one to another out of reverence for Christ (v. 21).  Admittedly, there are other times when our relationship has resembled that of King David and Michal.  In those times, we do not experience a Spirit-filled oneness and “resonance” but rather, a spirit of discord like a tuning fork striking cardboard or a lifeless mass of clay.

It is likely that some husbands and wives who read this article will, like Abby and I, relate to instances like the one reported here from the life of David and Michal. Thankfully, as we face the blessings and trials of life, with God’s help we can choose to rely on the same spiritual wisdom and strength from Him that formed and matured our marriage in the first place.  Just as communication is important between spouses so we know the blessing of keeping communication with our Creator--hearing daily from Him through time in His Word and conversing with Him as our Friend through prayer. 

Recently, we encountered an online message by Dwight Mason, Newpointe Community Church, entitled Simple Yet Difficult in which Pastor Mason offers “Ten Steps to Resolving Conflict” with direct application to dating and marriage.  We have also begun to use daily prayers provided by "Today's Marriage Prayer" and recommend that you check out this valuable guide to your daily prayer and devotional life.  See www.marriageprayers.today.  I have included “Today’s Marriage Prayer” for May 24 which happens to fit well with the theme of this article.

Digging Deeper -- Here are two invitations for further study:

1.  The popular misconception by many who have not read the Scriptures is that “husbands are to rule and wives are to submit!”  On the contrary, God’s instruction through Paul is that the husband is to submit by loving his wife as Christ loved the church, loving her as much as he loves himself (Ephesians 5: 25-33).  The wife is to submit to her husband by seeing to it that she shows respect toward him (Ephesians 5: 22-24, 33).  Knowing what God has revealed in these New Testament verses (unavailable to David and Michal), I have three questions for further consideration:  Husbands, how would you have responded differently in David's situation?  Wives, how would you advise Michal to be a better helpmate?  And for all of us, how would we “grade” our marriages in light of Ephesians 5?

2.  Compare the lives of two Old Testament husbands—Abraham and David.  Then, compare their wives, Sarah and Michal, respectively.  For your study, in addition to the account of 2 Samuel 6, see Genesis 17 and 18; and 1 Peter 3: 1-7.

Faith and Football: Staying in the Pocket

Last night, my 6^th ranked, West Virginia University Mountaineer football team was greatly humbled in defeat by the Iowa State Cyclones in Big 12 action.  After watching the 30-14 loss, I went to bed very disappointed.  My sadness returned when I awakened this morning and realized that it wasn’t a bad dream.  However, very soon, my thoughts became Spirit-directed as I realized how thankful I ought to be to begin another day of life.

Instead of a painful memory, the loss of the football game by WVU became a metaphor and a lesson for my own life.  Although I am far from an expert football analyst, it seemed clear to me that the 5-0 Mountaineer football team lost miserably to a 2-3 team because the Cyclones were successful in moving WVU away from their game plan in three ways.

Will Grier has nearly 2,000 offensive yards and 22 TD passes.

First, they forced our quarterback, Will Grier, to have to act under pressure, resulting in some poor executions.  As a Heisman Trophy candidate, Grier had come to Ames, Iowa to play like a winner.  But, instead of a sixth game in which Grier attained his average of over 300 offensive yards and 4 or 5 touchdown passes per game, he was limited by the Iowa State defense to 1 TD pass and 100 yards.  

A good quarterback leads because he comes prepared, exudes confidence, and demonstrates command of his offence in the face of the opposition. It is not for me to judge what caused Will's poor performance, but I am confident that he will bounce back next week.  As I try to imagine how painful it must be for Grier to watch the videos of the game, I know from experience how many times I have buckled under the pressures of life.  Maybe I was unprepared for the situation, or insensitive to others, or too proud to act or react in a humble way. I may have tried to protect my own interests or reputation rather than humbly giving honor to God or another person.  I cannot judge Will Grier, but in many of my cases, the source of problems is my pride.  Proverbs repeatedly warns us against a proud heart.  Proverbs 29: 23 states, A man's pride shall bring him low; But he that is of a lowly spirit shall obtain honor.

Second, the Cyclone defense forced our quarterback to move “out of the pocket.” Will Grier, like many quarterbacks, execute their best passing game when they stay in the pocket, a wall of protection that is formed around him by the offensive line.  The pocket is a safe place where the quarterback can stand, get a good read on the field, choose the best receiver, and deliver a pass that is on target.  However, in last night’s game, the Iowa State defense repeatedly attacked the offensive line so that Grier was forced to move out of the pocket where he was less effective in throwing, having to avoid being sacked. 

Quarterback Will Grier during one of too many sacks by ISU.

This morning, as I replayed in my mind the numerous offensive efforts in which Will Grier chose to leave the pocket, I began to see the spiritual application to my life.  Though I am not a quarterback, I have been a leader in my own home and in my family.  Reflecting back on my leadership, there have been many times that I reacted poorly under pressure “within the pocket” where God had placed me.  But, even worse, there have been times when I have “left the pocket” of God’s order for me as a husband and father, and have sought to “run the play” my own way.  But there is more to learn here.

Usually, the decisions of a quarterback are subject to input from a coach on the sidelines with occasional input from leaders in his offense.  All of his decisions must be made with respect to the rules of the game and situation at hand.  He is not free to operate as a “Lone Ranger” who takes matters into his own hands.  Likewise, when I see an opportunity to encourage or otherwise minister God’s truth and love to another person, I must be careful not to run ahead of God’s plan and purposes.  However, I have sometimes “left the pocket” of God’s protection, a pocket formed by biblical principles and people whom God has provided to help me.  When I have done this, I cannot “execute” in a way that honors God or that shows responsibility to my wife, family, friends, and others.  Then, it is time for "replaying the videos" of my actions, and where necessary, to repent and  make confession of my sin, and pursue forgiveness from God and the one(s) I have wronged.

For example, during my “retirement” chapter of life, I have been afforded more opportunities communicate with family and friends.  Some of my family are in situations brought on by poor decisions in earlier years.  I have watched some who have encountered illness and then died, not knowing what their eternal future will be.  Lest I act in disrespect of another person or seek to influence anyone in my own power, I have offered up many prayers for myself and for them. Yet, I still find it difficult to strike a balance between desiring to share my faith and the principles of life God reveals in Scripture while at the same time not being so zealous that I move “out of the pocket” of God’s order and timing for me.  The Apostle Paul writes (emphasis mine),

For the love of Christ compels us, since we have reached this conclusion: If one died for all, then all died.  And he died for all so that those who live should no longer live for themselves, but for the one who died for them and was raised (2 Corinthians 5: 14-15).

Although I believe my “compulsion” is a genuine derivative of God’s Spirit at work in me, I must learn to be a “team player” with Him while listening to the counsel of others.  Just as a successful quarterback earns the respect of his teammates, so I must remember my first responsibility is to God and to my wife and family.  Without their respect and without wise leadership in my home, my usefulness in God’s plan is in jeopardy.   

Finally, I realized a third lesson from offensive football.   West Virginia quarterback Grier must do even more than stay cool under pressure while he depends on his offensive line to protect the pocket.  He must also be discerning as he looks for eligible receivers.  Last night, the Cyclone defense neutralized our receivers by exerting tremendous coverage.  Hence, Grier was delayed in releasing his passes; and, this delay allowed the pocket to collapse, leaving him open to being sacked.

Again, the Apostle Paul expresses his zeal for sharing the love of Christ, in 1 Corinthians 9: 22 (NLT):

When I am with those who are weak, I share their weakness, for I want to bring the weak to Christ. Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone, doing everything I can to save some.

Like a quarterback, my zeal must show a proper balance between “passing” the Gospel message to family and friends while recognizing that not all loved ones are necessarily “eligible receivers,” at least at this point in time.  Like a quarterback, I may want to yell to receivers, “get open,” but I must remember that only God’s Spirit can open the hearts of others to receive.  As Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 4: 6 (NASB),

For God, who said, "Light shall shine out of darkness," is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the Light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.

I must remember not to be a “little God” or “little Providence” in the lives of others.  As the psalmist realized, only God can change the heart of a person:

No man can by any means redeem his brother,
Or give to God a ransom for him—
For the redemption of his soul is costly,
And he should cease trying forever— (Psalm 49: 7-8)

In summary, my alma mater’s football loss will have some redeeming value for me, and maybe also for you the reader, if we are able to remember and apply several lessons from football strategies.  First, we must realize our total dependence on God if we are to have respected leadership in our homes and among family and friends.  We must spend time with God through prayer and reading of His Word so that we will be calm and poised under day-to-day pressures.  We must also put on the armor God provides (e.g. belt of truth, breastplate of God’s righteousness, helmet of salvation) so that His “pocket of protection” is secured around us against the fiery darts of Satan, the passions of our flesh, and the deceitfulness of our mind.  Finally, we must discern eligible receivers lest we run ahead of God’s Spirit, rely on our own power and plans, and end up disrespecting those who are not ready or yet called unto salvation.  The Apostle Peter’s charge is a fitting end to these lessons learned from a football team on their night of a disappointing loss:

Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3: 14b-15 ESV).

Life as It Ought to Be - Part 2: Set Free…to Renew Our Minds

Tomorrow is Inauguration Day and many Americans will be watching as Donald John Trump is sworn in as the 45^th President of the United States.  But indications are that America has never been more divided at any time since the inauguration of Abraham Lincoln, in 1861, near the beginning of the Civil War.  Voices of opposition and distain for Trump are heard from people representing the sciences, politics, human rights groups, and the entertainment industry.  Here is a sampling:

America was also divided in 1861 at Lincoln's first inauguration.

I am literally on a remote tropical island and I, even I, don't feel safe. – Hollie Smith (singer-songwriter) 

Having a person in the position of U.S. President who does not acknowledge scientific facts establishing the clear reality of human-caused climate change is a disgrace. -- Dr. Twila Moon, (University of Bristol)

We will fight to make sure that Planned Parenthood health center doors stay open, and that people in this country can get access to basic reproductive health care…   Cecile Richards (president, Planned Parenthood)

The world will never be the same.  – Cher (singer-actress)

Winning the electoral college does not absolve Trump of the grave sins he committed against millions of Americans.  If Trump wants to roll back the tide of hate he unleashed, he has a tremendous amount of work to do and he must begin immediately.  -- Harry Reid (U.S. Senate, (D) Nev.)

We've let a hatemonger lead our great nation.  We've let a bully set our course.  I'm devastated.  -- Chris Evans (actor—“Captain America”)

The battle of angry words and rude behavior between Election 2016 winners and losers has continued right up to Inauguration Day.  Thanks to the internet, these angry expressions are broadcasted far and wide.  Occasionally, President-elect Trump throws fuel into the fire with angry tweets of his own.

What makes us act this way?  The cause is not Donald Trump.  Nor is it the two-party system; or, the internet.  The cause is not even fear of “losing our rights”—e.g. reproductive rights, gender rights, voting rights, health benefits, welfare entitlements, government job security, etc.  The ultimate cause lies deep within the human heart—i.e. the mental frameworks of logic and values each person has constructed with their mind.
 

When we are honest with ourselves, we admit we have personal struggles with pride, lust, and deceit.  These in turn influence our moral beliefs and hence how we think about the social and economic issues listed above.  Regardless of our stand on these issues, many of us experience fear and angst over how the new administration will influence our future.  When we reflect on the violence and destruction throughout human history we realize that humans are not naturally “good-at-heart,” or should I say, “good-at-mind.”  The Bible states, there is none righteous, not even one (Romans 3: 10).  And, the Apostle James asks (James 4: 1), What is the source of quarrels and conflicts among you?  Scripture answers immediately-- Because of your lusts that war in your members.
   
All of us have to deal with lust, an intense desire for something that is not rightfully ours to have.  Although many including Google mistakenly limit lust to “sexual desire,” it applies more broadly to any inordinate desire. We may lust for things like food, wealth, fame, intellectual prowess, or power.  The root of the problem is not that sex, food, guns, or fame are bad.  Instead, it is the way we think about these gifts of God.  What’s worse, we can use our minds and thought processes to deceive ourselves into believing that we don’t lust, or at least not very much.  As the prophet Jeremiah explains (Jeremiah 17: 9 NET), the human mind is more deceitful than anything else.  It is incurably bad.  Who can understand it?

Thankfully, God’s moral revelation in Scripture comes to us with the Spirit and power to help us attack the root of the problem within our minds.  In Part 1 of “Life as It Ought to Be,” we emphasized how God has power to “set us free….to serve Him.”  As the Apostle Peter writes (1 Peter 3:18), For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit…  Sin, is rebellion against God as a result of the prideful, lustful, and deceitful ways of thinking in our minds.  But sin does not need to have dominion over us.  Paul writes in Romans 8: 10, If Christ is in you, though the body is dead because of sin, yet the spirit is alive because of righteousness.

In Part 1, we explained how God sets the sinner free from sin’s mastery and gives the person of faith His Holy Spirit to reside within as a “New Master.” The “old master,” representing sin, selfishness, and Satan can now be brought under the righteous authority of God’s Spirit.  But, as a believer, I must submit to God’s Spirit as His Word tells me to …consider yourself dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus…[not allowing] sin [to] reign in your mortal body so that you obey its lusts...(Romans 6: 11-12).  Specifically, I must recognize that I cannot serve two masters.  My “death to the old master” representing sin, as expressed in pride, lust, and deceit becomes reality as I submit to my New Master, Jesus Christ.  Romans 12: 1-2 describes what God asks me to do daily (emphasis mine):   

…present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.  And do not [let your mind and thinking] be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.

Notice that our responsibility is to continually allow God’s Spirit through His Word to renew our minds so that our wills are attuned to God’s will.  Dr. Caroline Leaf, a communication pathologist and audiologist has conducted research for years in the field of cognitive neuroscience.  She believes that God created our minds in His image and has given us the “free will” to choose how we will think and react to our circumstances.  Dr. Leaf writes in her book entitled Switch on Your Brain (Baker Books, 2013):   

Your mind is the most powerful thing in the universe after God, and indeed fashioned after God.  Free will and choice are real, spiritual, and scientific facts. Your mind (soul) has one foot in the door of the spirit and one foot in the door of the body; you can change your brain with your mind and essentially renew your mind.

Dr. Leaf rejects the view that the human brain is hard-wired and unchangeable, a view that gained popularity in the 1980’s.  She has based her research on her insights gained from the Scriptures such as Romans 12: 2 in which God commands us to be transformed by the renewing of your mind and Deuteronomy 30: 19 in which God lovingly invites us to choose life in order that you may live….  Dr. Leaf reasons correctly that God would not ask His image bearers to exercise choice if He had not created us with brains that have the neurological capacity to change, and with the free will to make right choices that in turn help build healthy brains.  

In a future article, we will address more specifically how our mind can affect the status of our brain and in turn how we think when we use our God-given free will to make right decisions through the power of His Spirit and the guidance of His Word.   But for now, notice how James 4: 5-10 reveals the blessed benefit of submitting our minds to God’s will.  When we submit to God, we realize that His Spirit is actually longing for relationship with us.  What’s more God wants us to turn our longings back to Him as our Creator.  Listen to God’s loving mind speaking out to our minds (emphasis mine):

Or do you think the Scripture means nothing when it says, “The spirit that God caused to live within us has an envious yearning”?  But he gives greater grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud, but he gives grace to the humble.”  So submit to God.  But resist the devil and he will flee from you.  Draw near to God and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and make your hearts pure, you double-minded.   Grieve, mourn, and weep.  Turn your laughter into mourning and your joy into despair.  Humble yourselves before the Lord and he will exalt you.

How does a God Who created mankind explain the current division in America, and the divisions and strife around the world?  As we have explained, God’s Word tells us that our minds are naturally prideful, corrupt, and prone to lust or desire that which we do not have.  Therefore, God’s Spirit desires that each person submit to Him and allow their minds to be transformed by the renewing of their minds so that each will know what God’s will is for them.  The above challenge from the Apostle James seems very pertinent to this year’s politics.  It is the prideful, lustful, deceitful mind that causes the outpouring of prideful speech and actions.  Our only remedy is to allow God’s Spirit through His Word to go deep into our system of thought, causing repentance (change of heart/mind), submission to God, and confession of sin.  These actions bring New Life in Christ for the unbeliever, and they bring regular renewal and spiritual growth to the Christ-follower. 

If all goes as planned, tomorrow Donald J. Trump will be our new president.  Life will not immediately be “as it ought to be.”  But, if we take to heart the instructions of the Apostle James to submit to God Who will help us resist the devil, God will enable us to replace our own tendency toward divisiveness, anger, and rudeness with the virtues like patience, kindness, and self-control.   We can then be a much-needed, fresh aroma in our struggling homes, schools, workplaces, and churches.  The inspired Word written in a letter by the Apostle Paul to Titus during harsh times of the Roman Empire ought to encourage us to be thankful for the privilege of watching the inauguration and then praying for the Trump family and his new administration (emphasis mine):

Remind them to be subject to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good deed, to malign no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing every consideration for all men.  For we also once were foolish ourselves, disobedient, deceived, enslaved to various lusts and pleasures, spending our life in malice and envy, hateful, hating one another.  But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior so that being justified by His grace we would be mad heirs according to the hope of eternal life. – Titus 3:1-7

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How about You?   If after reading this article, you sense that you need to do some mind and soul searching, here is a suggestion.  Read Part 1 of this series and prayerfully consider and apply the “four disciplines” outlined there to assure our daily submission to the “New Master.”  They were (1) forging ahead for God while confessing and forgetting past failings; and, being disciplined to (2) feed on God’s Word, (3) adopt a lifestyle of prayer and repentance, and (4) seek fellowship regularly with fellow believers.  If you have particular questions or comments, please use the “Comment” box below or e-mail me at silviusj@gmail.com