God Is a Patient Father...Craig Denison Ministries

 God Is a Patient Father

Craig Denison Ministries

Weekly Overview: 

It’s vital to the Christian life that we as sons and daughters of the most high God allow our affections to be stirred by the loving, powerful nature of our heavenly Father. Too often we feel that God is distant or separated from us. Too often we allow misconceptions or lies to place a rift between us and experiencing God. It’s in reminding ourselves of God’s character that lies are broken and a pathway is laid for us to encounter his tangible love. Open your heart and mind and receive fresh revelation of the goodness of God this week. Allow your affections to be stirred and your heart to be filled with desire to seek the face of your heavenly Father.

Scripture:“The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9

Devotional:    

1 Corinthians 13:4 tells us, “Love is patient.” Patience is a part of love that doesn’t feel fun at the beginning. It feels like an act of self-control rather than passion, as if the two aren’t perfectly connected. And it often comes across as a sign of weakness rather than an attribute of the bold and powerful we so often admire. But Scripture teaches us a different view of patience. 2 Peter 3:8-9 says, “But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.” God, in his passionate desire for restored relationship with all his children, has perfect patience toward us. His passion leads him to patience. And it is in his desire to see us grow in all manner of holiness and godliness that he waits to bring about the restoration of all things to him with the coming of the new heavens and earth. Let’s open our hearts today to become more like our heavenly Father and allow him to create in us a heart worthy of him who has so patiently loved us.

I fear that much of the bride of Christ is living day-to-day, getting by until Jesus returns. And I fear that in our complacency we are not engaging in the purposes for which Christ came. God’s intention here is to use us to bring about a saving knowledge to all those around us. His plan was for restoration of relationship here, not just biding our time while suffering from a lack of his reality working in our lives. 2 Peter 3:14 says, “Therefore, beloved, since you are waiting for [new heavens and a new earth], be diligent to be found by him without spot or blemish, and at peace.” And Hebrews 12:3-11 says,

It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.

Because God loves us he does not desire for us to remain as we were or as we are. His plan is to do such a work in us that we live on this earth as Jesus did. But he is entirely patient to accomplish this work. He is entirely patient with our sanctification.

When I began engaging in the process of sanctification I was filled with frustration. For the first time I began to see all the dirt and muck covering up this beautiful gift of a new nature God had given me. I felt like I was never going to be able to get through all the sin that seemed to so entangle me to my old nature, and I was right. Scripture teaches us that it is God, in his patience, who produces holiness and godliness. In my own strength I have no ability to change my heart. My only job is to engage with him and allow him to work in and through me. Philippians 2:13 says, “For it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.” The NLT version says it this way: “For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.” God’s desire isn’t for us to engage in works that have the appearance of morality but aren’t flowing from the true desire of our hearts. His longing is to mold and shape our hearts by his love into a perfect reflection of his heart so that we might live true lives of holiness out of the overflow of what he has done in us. Only he can accomplish such a work. Only he can fill us with the ability to truly love. And as 2 Peter 3:9 tells us, he is patient to do so.

Spend time in prayer discovering the patient heart of your heavenly Father. Spend time allowing his love to draw you into the process of sanctification. And allow the Holy Spirit to do a mighty work in you today, bringing about holiness and godliness where it seemed only sin and worldliness could dwell.

Guided Prayer:

1. Meditate on the patient heart of your heavenly Father. Reflect on how his patience comes from his passionate love for us.

“The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9

“The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.” Psalm 103:8

2. Now meditate on God’s desire to produce holiness and godliness in you. Allow this truth to grow in connection to God’s love. His love leads him to discipline and work in us.

“Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness, waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be set on fire and dissolved, and the heavenly bodies will melt as they burn!” 2 Peter 3:11

“It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.” Hebrews 12:3-11

3. Now engage in the process of sanctification with the Holy Spirit. Allow him to reveal to you places in your life that do not align with your new nature. Ask him to take you to the source of your sin and correct your understanding so that you might walk in holiness today. Allow your desire to live like Jesus be stirred up in his presence. Do not work in your own strength but with the power and love of the Spirit who dwells within you.

“For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Philippians 2:13 (NLT)

“We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin.” Romans 6:6

“May grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire.” 2 Peter 1:2-4

God has promised to deliver us from this world. We have hope that the trials and tribulations of this world will not be forever. Jesus is coming again to restore all things to be as they should. Find peace and joy in the fact that God is both working now and will work then. He is both healing, transforming, and freeing us now as he will then. In his patience he is passionately waiting for more to come to know him. May your life be a reflection of his perfect love to all those around you, that Jesus might gain the due reward of his suffering through you.

Extended Reading: Romans 6

A Godly Response to Criticism...Dr. Charles Stanley

 A Godly Response to Criticism

Dr. Charles Stanley

Proverbs 15:31-33

No one likes criticism, but encountering some is inevitable, so we need to learn how to respond in a godly way. Although you might be tempted to become defensive or angry, remain calm and listen. The words may hurt, but great benefits come to those who carefully consider what is said.

If we refuse to accept reproof, we'll limit our potential for Christlike character development and spiritual growth. Some of life's best lessons come through difficult experiences. If God allowed the situation, you can be sure that He wants to use it in transforming you into His Son's image. Whether the criticism is valid or not, whether it's delivered with kindness or harshness, your goal should always be to respond in a way that glorifies the Lord. Remember that you are responsible only for how you handle yourself, not for how the other person is acting.

When a criticism comes your way, be quiet and listen until the other person has finished. Make direct eye contact to show attentiveness and respect. When your critic finishes, thank him for bringing his concerns to your attention, and tell him that you will consider what he's said. Ask the Lord if the accusation is valid. Let Him search your heart and either affirm your innocence or convict you.

Every rebuke is an opportunity from God. It's a chance to let your Christian character shine by showing love to your critic. If he is angrily attacking you, your respect and kindness become a powerful testimony. Criticism is also an occasion to humble yourself and accept the Lord's correction.

What Melchizedek Can Teach Us About Jesus...By Chara Donahue

 What Melchizedek Can Teach Us About Jesus

By Chara Donahue

“The LORD has sworn and will not change his mind: "You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek..." Psalm 110:4.

Genesis introduces Melchizedek – a “priest of God most High,” as he blesses Abram. He is mentioned again in Psalms, but we aren’t alerted to how much attention we should give him until we see his name again in the book of Hebrews (Hebrews 7:1-28). For as much mention the author of Hebrews gives to Melchizedek we know it is worth our time to discover who he is and what he was about.

So who is this man who was an imperfect foreshadow to Jesus and why should we care?

Psalm 110: is talking about Jesus, “’You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.’” The Matthew Henry Concise Commentary said this about the Psalm:

“[Jesus] is the Priest of the order of Melchizedek, which was before that of Aaron, and on many accounts superior to it, and a more lively representation of Christ's priesthood.”

Melchizedek is important. Any glimpse in scripture which offers a more complete view of Jesus is beauty and truth that we cannot set aside.

The author of Hebrews repeatedly contrasts Old Testament heroes and practices and then profoundly reveals how Jesus is the better and truer fulfillment of the Hebrew’s beloved traditions and patriarchs. In chapters 5 through the beginning of chapter 8, the author focuses on the superior priesthood of Jesus over the Levitical Priesthood as the eternal, perfected priest of the order of Melchizedek.

The Levitical priests would represent the people of Israel before God. They became priests by lineage, which didn’t guarantee righteous living; see Aaron’s son’s unauthorized fire or Eli’s wicked sons for example.  Melchizedek was a priest in an order that had no beginning; because Jesus is the order’s greatest priest, it will also never end. The great news found here is that Jesus is not a Levitical priest for the Israelites, but a priest of the order of Melchizedek – meaning he is a priest for all. Though the Jew and the Gentile were once separated by promise and law, through Christ all of humanity was extended the opportunity to be drawn near.

Psalm 110 foresaw that the Messiah would hold the Melchizedekian priesthood forever, and our Lord’s overcoming death means He will never set aside His priesthood. If we come to God through the priestly ministry of Jesus, we can be sure that like His priesthood, our lives will be eternal. Knowing that Christ holds an eternal priesthood, we are confident that we are secure in Him forever.

A Prayer to Trust God for the Harvest... Victoria Riollano

A Prayer to Trust God for the Harvest
By Victoria Riollano

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” - Galatians 6:9

Only 3 months in, it was clear we had run out of money.

Years ago, my family and I decided to make a bold move and follow God’s call to be church planters. It was exciting to build a team of believers to win souls in our local community. With so few church options in our town, we were enthusiastic about how God could build His church from the ground up. Yet, we realized very quickly that none of this could be done without finances. From filing paperwork with the state to be a legitimate business to securing a location, to microphones, to supplies for children’s ministry, we would need to come up with the finances to launch the church. Fortunately, those on the team and a few ministries came together and we were able to have everything we needed. Although our set up was simple and inexpensive, it was exactly enough. However, with few members giving and no large organization providing monthly support, it was clear we couldn’t sustain the cost of rent, let alone the other supplies. Only three months in, it was clear the church was set to close. 

My husband and I were heartbroken as we shared the news with our freshly started congregation and the facility we were renting from. Years of dreaming and planning had culminated into what felt like a failure. Yet, over and over again, I couldn’t help but remember my favorite verse that says, “do not grow weary in doing good, for in due season you will reap a harvest if you do not give up.” So, we continued to run the ministry as best we could knowing the end was in sight. But God, in true fashion showed up. Days before the church was set to close, the rental facility cut the price in half and we received a large unexpected donation that covered the rental fee for four months. In a matter of hours, we went from a closing church to one that had an excess of resources. Hallelujah!

The Lord reminded me that He was still a provider. He was still faithful. He was still able to do exceedingly and abundantly above all we could ask or think.

You see, when Paul wrote the words, “Let us not become weary” he had already been ministering the gospel for over a decade. He had already taken several journeys where he had proclaimed the gospel and helped to establish regions of believers to come together as the Church. Thus, this word of not growing weary was real to him. He didn’t have the privilege of pressing Facebook “live” to preach to the masses or traveling by car or plane to minister. Many scholars believe he would have had to travel 10,000 miles by foot in his lifetime. But, he was willing to do it because he knew that the harvest would be worth it. He knew that he had to follow the calling of the Lord with all his heart, soul, and strength, even when it was difficult. Clearly, believers are still reaping the benefits of Paul not giving up! With over half of the New Testament being written by him, we are reminded that God rewards our ability to show up with grit for His glory.

Today, I want to encourage you, let’s not grow weary! May we trust God in every area of our lives. He will certainly show up for us right when we need it. He is a promise keeper and one who still blesses his people. May we trust God for the harvest of our work.

Let’s pray:

Lord, I thank you for who you are. I praise you for remaining with me through it all. There are times when giving up feels like my only option. I thank you for sending people and even reminding me in your word of the great reward of staying faithful. Help me to be resilient and trust in you. Show me how to trust you and expect a great harvest. I thank you that you are good, and you are using every hard trial as a testimony. Thank you for writing my story. I praise you for your presence in my life. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

 

Recognizing God’s Love For You...By Aaron Brown

 Recognizing God’s Love For You

By Aaron Brown

“When I observe your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you set in place, what is a human being that you remember him, a son of man that you look after him?” (Psalm 8:3-4)

Doubting God’s Love
The moon. The stars. The sun. Earth, its animals, and the sea. God created all of these things and set them in motion. Within the first chapter of Genesis, God also created something more valuable, His image-bearers, mankind.

As David writes, God remembers us and He looks after us. When we read other stories in the Bible we see this same love reflected.

Despite their sin, God looked after the Israelites. Despite committing murder, God still had a plan for Moses. And though he ran away from his task, God pursued Jonah. God loves us too, despite our sinful nature.

That’s one quality that makes us different from God’s other creations - rebellion. And it’s this same quality that makes us doubt God’s love.

Whether a one-time offense or a habit, sin causes us to feel separated from God. Yet, in spite of our sinful tendencies, God’s love remains. Moreover, His love for us remains greater than His care for anything else. Nothing can change this truth (Romans 8:38-39).

The question is, do you believe that God loves you?

And if not, what causes you to doubt?

After the Israelites fled Egypt, there came a time when they doubted God’s care. They doubted because they encountered hardship (Exodus 16:3). Jonah fled from God after the Lord wanted to use him (Jonah 1:1-2). He lacked trust in God’s plan.

Hardship, illness, loss, or any type of suffering can tempt us to do the same. And as we step away from God, we step into sin.

Life did improve, however, for the Israelites and for Jonah, after a change in perspective. They learned to recognize God’s love for them. We would benefit from learning the same lesson.

Recognizing God’s Love
Jesus highlighted God’s love for man when He made a comparison between the humans and the birds of the sky (Matthew 6:26). In this comparison, we see an everyday truth that we take for granted. God looks after the animals. He provides for them though they have no means of storage like we do.

How often do we fret about the squirrels or birds in our neighborhood finding food? Yet, how often do we question God’s provision in our own lives?

If the birds don’t have to worry about what they’ll eat, why would we? God cares more for us than He does for them.

After doubting his ability to carry out God’s will, Moses needed a shift in perspective. God reassured Moses that He would be there for guidance (Exodus 3:11-12). From there Moses had his ups and downs, but every time he did well in life, he had trust in God. Or in other words, he recognized God’s love for him.

The same is true for us. Life is easier when we recognize God’s presence in our lives and put trust in Him.

Recognizing God’s love on a daily basis is no easy feat, but when we can do so, the proper perspective brings plenty of benefits. Doubt turns into faith. Despair becomes hope. And indifference makes way for love.

Intersecting Faith and Life:
We not only bear God’s image, but we have an ability to worship unlike any of God’s other creations. We sing songs, offer sacrifices, and make the conscious choice to praise. Is there any surprise then that God loves us so much?

Sometimes believing in God’s love comes naturally, but sometimes we enter seasons of life where unconditional love seems unbelievable. Even if we find ourselves in this position, there is a way out. The solution is revealed through the Israelites, Moses, and Jonah. We change our perspective by remembering what the Lord has done (Jonah 2:7).

Unlike these Bible figures, we have Scripture to look back on. We can read about God’s marvelous works and quote Scripture to remind ourselves of truth. In addition, we can do what they did, and simply reflect on our own lives.

God has blessed us and He does so every day. We just have to take the time to spot those blessings. When you recognize God’s love on display, write down what you realize, share with a friend. The more we remember God’s love in the present, the less we’ll doubt in the future.

Further Reading:
Romans 8:38-39
Exodus 16:3

Jonah 1:1-2
Matthew 6:26

Exodus 3:11-12
Jonah 2:7