Asides

Why doesn’t God intervene?

Are you disappointed? Has God not answered your prayer? Are you asking, “Why?” Here’s a thought from John 11. Though Jesus loved Lazarus (John 11:3, 5, 11), He intentionally waited, not intervening to heal him (John 11:6, 21), which resulted in Lazarus’ death (John 11:14, 32) and his sisters’ grief (John 11:19, 33). This inevitably provoked the age-old question: why would an all-powerful, loving God allow bad things to happen to good people? Specifically, why didn’t Jesus intervene and prevent this situation if He had the power to heal (John 11:37). Thankfully, God gave us the answer in the rest of the story: Jesus allowed Lazarus to die to orchestrate a far greater story than just a healing; it’s a story about a RESURRECTION that conquers death (John 11:23, 25, 44); it’s a story that brought many to believe in Christ (John 11:42, 45); it’s a story that brought tremendous glory to God (John 11:4, 40).

What disappointment are you facing? In what way has God refrained His almighty power from intervening? Possibly it’s about health, relationships, elections, or ministry. Take comfort:

  • God is orchestrating a far greater story – ultimately leading to a resurrection that conquers death (1 Thessalonians 4; 1 Corinthians 15).
  • He is working a greater work – that many would believe in Christ.
  • He is fulfilling a greater purpose – to bring glory to Himself.

So dear Christian, walk by faith, believing that God works all things together for your good (Romans 8:28) and that He’s able to do exceeding abundantly above all that you ask or think (Ephesians 3:20-21). Take a few moments to ponder how that greater story may unfold.

Abortion is sometimes humane… right?

“Abortion for a fetus with congenital disease or abnormality is the responsible and humane option.” Is this view consistent POST-birth? Is it humane to murder an infant diagnosed with Down’s Syndrome, a toddler with Multiple Sclerosis, or child with Muscular Dystrophy? Can God not heal? Can God not give grace? Does God not have a purpose?

If God takes special interest in the weak & helpless people of the world (Exodus 22:21-24; Psalm 68:5; 82:3-4; 94:6-7,23), shouldn’t we stand up for those who cannot protect or even speak for themselves?

Welcome to the family

Yesterday my son attended church for the first time. He didn’t understand any of it then, and he won’t remember any of it later. But it was a special day. I saw David surrounded by a church family who had been praying for him before he was even born. It gives me peace to know that in David’s future, he’ll see examples of people serving the Lord, hear caring adults teach Him God’s Word, receive encouragement from people who love him, and have a place to serve others. 

Everyday I pray that like the David of the Bible, my son will have sure mercies, be a man after God’s heart, and be a vivid portrayal of Jesus Christ. His church family will play a critical role in how God answers that prayer, and I’m so thankful for their willingness to play that role. I don’t want to imagine living life without the support of my church family. 

What about you?

What do you enjoy most about your church?
What are top ways that your church family provides support for families?

Is paddling children moral?

The Immoral Accusation

“Striking a child is always wrong” Or, “How can you expect to teach children to refrain from violence by exercising violence on them?” The allegation of psychologists & social workers is that paddling children is immoral.

This contemporary view stands in opposition to every major world religion (except New Age): Buddhism, Confucianism, Hinduism, Judaism, Islam, Christianity – all endorse corporal discipline as a good & essential way to raise & build character in children. The detractors of paddling accuse every major religion of being immoral.

 

The Underlying Premise

Why New Age? It’s necessary to acknowledge the link between New Age religion and modern psychology. While diverse in its details, the central tenet of New Age is that self is god. Therefore its ultimate worship is pleasing self, and its chief sin is displeasing self. This doctrine (and more) of New Age permeate modern psychology, where the primary pursuit is the happiness.

 

See a previous post concerning the alleged inefficacy of paddling

Restart

I used to blog. Four years ago we planted Connect Church, and I chronicled the journey – the successes, failures, and lessons I had learned. What happened?

Here’s what happened – I didn’t backup, and I lost it all. A lot of memories, a lot of stories, a lot of lessons… lost.  So after a long while, I’m starting again, and I guess the first lesson documented is BACKUP YOUR CONTENT.

You can expect to see post about Bible doctrine, moral & social issues, family, and church planting.