Back to the Future (Part 6)

Heaven has always been described as a place of peace and rest. Even in the teachings of many other religions, heaven is usually described as a place of escape from all the fear, pain, conflict, and hurt that this world holds for humanity. The Bible speaks a lot about heaven, and this is clearly seen in the book of Revelation. In chapter 4, John gets a glimpse of the center of the universe - the Throne Room of Almighty God. In this chapter, John experiences three situations that are both a source of great joy and comfort; which if taken to heart can also bring a Christan great comfort and joy even in this stressed and sin-filled life.

First, John gets an invitation to heaven's throne (4:1-2). No one dare approach the gates of heaven without an invitation from it's King. How foolish are men who think that they can get to heaven any way they deem possible. This mentality does not even make sense when trying to get into the White House, Buckingham Palace, or even the Vatican. All men must have an invitation to heaven, and the pass is clear from Scripture, Only those who accept the Son, Jesus Christ and His work on the cross may enter heaven (John 14:6). Second, John experiences the person of Jesus Christ (4:2-3). The one who is greater than the greatest light, more precious the the rarest jewel, the Lover and yet Savior of the Redeemed, now is seated in His proper place, the throne in heaven. What a source of comfort to know that Jesus rules and reigns over all. Third, John experiences the praise before the throne (4:4-11). All the creatures and all the saints in heaven behold the throne and worship He who reigns. The one who died for the sins of the world, is now declared by all creatures as holy, eternal, and the only one worthy to receive all glory, honor, and thanks. When you read these verses, and put yourself in John's shoes, how can you keep from having a less stressed life, as you constantly remember the end of the story for all those who are children of the King - HEAVEN. Until next time, keep walking close to Christ.

Back to the Future (Part 5)

I have entitled my blog "Walking with God relieves stress." Note, I did not say that walking with God guarantees that you will be problem free. Stress is mainly a problem brought on with the idea of "not having control" of life's circumstances. Stress is greatly removed from the life of a Christian who daily realizes that their life is not their own, but rather gives total control to Jesus Christ to pilot their life as long as they are given breath to live. With Christ in the driver's seat, why should I fear or get stressed out with life's surprises? This mindset can be illustrated with two of the seven churches found in Revelation chapters 2 & 3, Smyrna and Philadelphia. These two are the only churches found in John's seven letters that only hear a good report from Jesus. There is nothing negative to be said about these two churches. These churches were not perfect, but rather they were walking with Christ so closely, that they were doing everything that God has called the New Testament church to do in a lost and hostile world.

Yet take a closer look at both churches and their environment of ministry. Both congregations are experiencing great persecution and even death. It is said of Smyrna that these believers are suffering, some are in prison, and some will even be killed for the faith (2:10). In Philadelphia, the believers here are poor, weak, and under great pressure from Jewish persecution (3:8-9). Walking close to Christ will in fact bring more opposition your way and my way. But there is no amount of persecution and suffering that can over shadow the love and faithfulness of the churches one, true, and only foundation - Jesus Christ. As I heard from the lips of one persecuted Christian church leader from Somalia, "You may kill me once, but you will never touch me again, for I belong to Jesus Christ." This should give us great incentive to continue faithfully in the work that God as called us to. Until next time, continue walking closely with Christ.

Back to the Future (Part 4)

Do you like awards, trophies, medals, certificates of appreciation, or gifts? I have never met anyone who would say no to that question. In fact, it seems that deep in the human spirit, there rest an overwhelming desire to be recognized and even honored. In fact, humans beings in general are always striving for their "fifteen minutes of fame." Shows like "Fear Factor", "Survivor", and yes even "Toddlers and Tiaras". Usually, when someone takes their own life, it is not after they won a million dollars on a game show, or sign a contract with a record deal after a you-tube video went viral, or even after staring on a reality TV show. Suicide rates are highest among those who are lonely, bullied, and even those who are overlooked for a moment of honor.

When we look at Scripture we see that Christians should not seek honor and recognition for the attention alone (Matthew 23), but that does not mean we have nothing to work for in this life.
Jesus and Paul speak often of awards that will be given to God's children at the end of this age. This promise is clearly seen in Revelations 2 & 3 at the end of each letter to the church, Jesus concludes by reminding His persecuted children of the awards that will be theirs when they overcome this life through their faithfulness to Jesus Christ. Here are the awards: access to the tree of life (2:7), crown of life (2:10), manna and a new name (2:17), authority over the nations (2:26), permanent name (3:5), permanent residence in New Jerusalem (3:12), to reign with Jesus (3:21). Jesus Himself has personally promised to honor and award those in heaven who are faithful to the very end of their life here on earth. And if you look closely at each award, they all speak to the same priceless honor - "Eternal salvation and life with Jesus in a new heaven and new earth." When you think about the greatness of this award, then our outlook on this life as Christians should take on more purpose and less stress. Until next time, keep walking close to Christ.

Back to the Future (Part 3)

It is often that we hear the following statement said of many people we know, "So and so over came ___________." (a particular obstacle in one's life) We can fill in the blank with a variety of situations: alcohol addiction, cancer, depression, loss of job, debt... It is a wonderful feeling to be able to celebrate with those who were facing such great, negative odds in life, only to come out of the other side as victors, as overcomers. The same idea can be clearly seen in the pages of Scripture, in Revelation chapters 2 & 3. In each letter that John is commanded to write to the seven different churches is Asia Minor, Jesus uses these words when speaking to each church, "He who overcomes." (2:7,11,17,26:3:5,12,21)

First, to better understand those who overcome, we must define the overcomers in the eyes of God. 1 John 5:4 gives us that definition, "For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world - our faith." Simply, those who overcome the world are those who know and acknowledge Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. Second, what is the hardship that a Christian must overcome? The quick answer would be sin and death that all men are bound to in this life. Yet the seven letters were sent to churches, distinct body of believers who overcame the persecution of their faith in Christ. They overcame the assault of false teachers and doctrine upon their congregations. They overcame the desires of the fresh with the spiritual desires of the Spirit of God. It is the true believer that will overcome the spiritual attack of one's faith and growth in this life. The overcomers are those who stand firm in the spiritual battle against the wicked assault of the enemy. The overcomers are those who stand under the blood of the Lamb in the face of mounting opposition. Are you an overcomer? An overcomer will not have an easy life on earth, but it will be less stressful as you stand with Christ. Until next time, keep walking close to Christ.

Timeout!

It frustrates me when I am watching a game on TV, and by the time I get settled in, one of the coaches calls a time out, or even worse, the referees call a time out for a media break. Well, let me take a time out during our walk through the book of Revelations. I was reading a verse today that spoke to my heart that I decided to write about it in this weeks blog. Proverbs 28:26 states: "He who trusts in his own heart is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom will be delivered." The book of Proverbs is all about the benefits of walking in wisdom verses living as a fool. Let me define both key words in order to have a better understanding of what the writer is saying. A "fool" is one who lives their life as if there is no God (Ps. 14:1). In other words, a fool does not invite God into any decision he or she may make. They live as if they are the lone boss of their life. On the other side, "wisdom" has been described as "the voice of God." Proverbs 1:7 says, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; but fools despise wisdom and instruction."

Proverbs 28:26 simply warns the human race not to conduct their life outside of God's rulebook, the Bible. Only those who listen to God's voice, a voice that speaks through the pages of God's Holy Word, will find refuge and safety in this life. How many times have you heard this advice from the world or even from behind some pulpits? "Just listen to your heart." This verse in Proverbs commands us not to follow the desires of our heart. Our heart will only lead us astray, it will seek to remove God from His rightful place in our lives. Discipline your heart to hear the voice of God (1 Kings 19:13). Then discipline your life to obey His commands. When this verse becomes our life's goal and focus, then you will have a less stressed life. Until next time, keep walking close to Christ.

Back to the Future (Part 2)

Someone has said that true living is in who you know. I have had the experience of doing many different things in life, but some of my "dreams" have not turned out as I would have thought. I have always felt that I was at a disadvantage to most because I truly do not have any "connections" in life. We hear all the time of people getting their dream job, or getting that promotion, or called to participate in a prestigious event simply because of the person that they were friends with. A friend who made one call, and that call guaranteed action. But during those times I find myself having a pity party about my life, and bemoaning the fact that I have little to no connections with anyone of any power and authority in this life, the Holy Spirit quickly asks me one question, "If you have no one of any authority in your life, then who is Christ to you?" When hearing that question/reprimand, I repent and find comfort that Christ Jesus is enough. He opens and closes any door that no one can close or open. (Rev. 3:9)

As Jesus commissions John to write the book of Revelation to the persecuted church, He does so by clearly expressing how powerful He truly is in this world. Not only does John take Jesus seriously, but the King behind this book ought to be listened to and obeyed without delay. He is clothed as a priest, full of maturity and wisdom. His eyes are all knowing and penetrate the very hearts of men. His feet are stable, pure, and cannot be moved. His voice speaks and the whole creation trembles. His hands hold the very pastor of each church. His tongue is the very Word of God that protects the church. He is so radiant that no one dare stand upright in His presence. (1:12-20) This is the God who has commission this book of hope, comfort, and warning to all men. If you personally know this God, Jesus Christ, then your life will be less stressful than those who choose to reject His Word. Until next time, keep walking close to Christ.

Back to the Future (Part 1)

One of the most stressful questions we humans ask ourselves is, "What will my future be like?" Every civilization has tried to paint a picture of what human history will be like twenty, fifty, a hundred, or even a thousand years from now. The uncertainty of man's future has caused many ulcers to form in many stomachs. The afterlife is a subject every religion tries to answer. Most religions paint a more positive life than negative when describing man's future. Some try to ignore the future and just focus on the here and now. The Christian faith does not try to minimize the future, in fact the Bible clearly describes the future of humanity and is clear about man's final destination. The Book of Revelation has been embraced by many (and has been misunderstand and misapplied by just as many) as a book of hope, comfort, optimism, and even fear. The closer we look at this book it is clear that every man's destination will end in one of two locations: heaven or the lake of fire. Heaven is the very definition of peace and love, while Hell will be a real place whose environment is the opposite of peace and love.

In Revelation 1:1-8, we see two very important facts about humanities future: First, there is only one who is in our our past, present, and future, and He is Jesus Christ, the the subject line of human history. And the second fact is man's promise of deliverance from this sinful world. Many people read the book of Revelation, and focus on angels, wars, plagues, death, tribulation, and even heaven. But the main subject of this book is Jesus. The very first words in this book make this clear: "The Revelation of Jesus Christ..." Jesus is described as the true witness, the one who has risen from the dead, the ruler of all the earth, and the one who has died for man's sins (vs.5). It is Jesus who has not abandoned this world, but He is coming back to take back what is rightfully His, and to make all things perfect and right. His coming is as sure as His existence. It may seem that the world is too chaotic to be saved, but there is coming a day when "He is coming in the clouds and every eye will see Him..." (vs. 7) When you allow Christ to be in control of your future, then no matter what comes your way, you can rest knowing that you are in good hands; hands that guarantee a less stressful life. Until next time, keep walking close to Christ.