Review: "Go: Returning Discipleship to the Front Lines of Faith"

I have to be up front and let you know I received this book free from Tyndale for the purpose of reading and reviewing it.

Discipleship is something that should be fairly straightforward. Jesus said, "Go and make disciples." Going never seems to be the issue, it's in the making of disciples where we get tripped up. What does it mean to "make disciples"? What does a disciple look like? How do we go about it? Do I need training in order to do it the right way? Who determines the right way and the not-so-right way? Is anyone else doing this and how can I tell if they are? Preston Sprinkle answers many similar questions in his book Go: Returning Discipleship to the Front Lines of Faith. 

Using the compiled data from a recent Barna Group study commissioned by The Navigators, Preston Sprinkle tackles the problem of missing and/or weak disciples within the church. According to the data the church universal is not making disciples and is instead producing congregations with weak faith, a lack of commitment, and astounding Bible illiteracy. This book seeks to provide answers geared toward changing the statistics through practical solutions and relevant disciple-making tactics.

Overall it was an easy read with lots and lots of statistical evidence confirming what many suspected about the state of the church. I can certainly appreciate the work done by the Barna Group and found it eye-opening. However, the book felt more like a promo for the report than a biblical analysis and solution for "fixing" the problem. It was jam-packed with great information, but I came away wanting something with more "meat" to it. All in all, it is worth the read.

You can check out the first chapter by clicking HERE.

Review: 365 Pocket Morning Prayers

My daily quiet time consists almost exclusively of reading the Bible and spending time in prayer. I admit I am not big on adding other books to this routine mainly because they often focus on things about the Bible, general opinions, or self. I simply want the Word of God because in it is the power of life. I received a complimentary copy of this little book, "365 Pocket Morning Prayers" from Tyndale Publishing and was pleasantly surprised.

Each day has a simple prayer that focuses on a specific topic or issue. They may range from personal struggles to people. Included with the prayer is a short Bible passage that supports the theme of each prayer. I would never recommend this little book as a replacement for reading the Bible on a daily basis, but it can be a helpful supplement. Where the Bible is the main course for breakfast this book can be a vitamin to go with it.

You can view a sample chapter at this LINK.

Review: "Gratitude: A Prayer and Praise Coloring Journal"

Let me start by saying I am not someone who journals or colors on a regular basis (in fact, not much at all). However, I received a copy of "Gratitude: A Prayer and Praise Journal" free from Tyndale Publishing for the purpose of reviewing it. The book has thick, brightly illustrated covers and heavier stock paper to make easier the task of writing and coloring in it. Aesthetically it is very appealing.

I thumbed through the pages, reading the prayers for each day and found them to light-hearted and simple yet guiding the heart toward gratitude. It is refreshing to find something that points to the Lord and serves as a daily reminder of all He has done for us. So many of these kinds of books are more self-centered than God-centered. This one, all though light and airy, points to Him.

Personally, I would not purchase this book for myself. It is more suitable for my teenage daughters than me. It would make a good gift book, but doesn't seem to be made for the serious journaler.

Downloadable samplers and sharable coloring pages can be found at Tyndale's Inspire Creativity board on Pinterest.

Game Review: The Aetherlight: Chronicles of the Resistance

In today's world, electronic devices are a fixture in our lives. Gaming has moved from being anchored to the family tv in the den to a rectangle of plastic and glass anywhere a cell or wi-fi signal exists. The mobility of games has increased their accessibility and drained more time from already busy lives. As a dad I try to strike a balance with my kids when it comes to video games. My wife and I monitor what they play and set limits on how long they can go at it. The majority of games are mindless or mindless with violence/crudeness/crassness/etc. I was glad to receive the opportunity to play and review "The Aetherlight: Chronicles of the Resistance" from Tyndale House Publishing and Scarlet City Studios.

I'll be honest, when I first played the game I thought it was kind of clunky in that there were no instructions on how to play the game. After several minutes I was able to figure it out and endeavored to get as far as I could on my own before calling in the experts...my two sons. I knew the game was designed to teach and bring the biblical narrative to life, but I must admit I did not readily see it in the time I played the game.

Enter the boys. They are eleven and sixteen and, needless to say, have out mastered me in the realm of video games. My youngest enjoyed the challenge of figuring out the "hows" of playing the game, while his brother didn't seem to be phased by the lack of instructions. They both excelled in the game, completing the missions and advancing as far as they could during the trial period they had access to it. As a game they found it engaging, challenging and yet fun.

The best part came when they began to explain to me how the game (as far as they were able to play it) was an allegory of the biblical account of Abraham and his son Isaac. It excited them to be able to "play out" biblical truth in a video game. It excited me to know that the time spent playing the game wasn't wasted, but actually reinforced what they already knew of the bible. It seemed to help them think through the events found in the bible.

I, and my sons, recommend "The Aetherlight: Chronicles of the Resistance" for the following reasons: it is clean, challenging and fun as a game; it reinforces what my kids have already learned from reading the bible. Please watch the trailer below to find out more.

You can also check out the YouVersion reading plan by clicking this LINK and be sure to "like" the Aetherlight Facebook page by going HERE.

I received a free three day trial of this game for the purpose of review.

Book Review: God & Churchill

I received this book from Tyndale Publishing free for review purposes.

Winston Churchill is perhaps one of the most popular figures in recent world history. Countless biographies have been written about him and many other histories of WW2 hold him as a central figure. His performance as a leader of men under some of the most difficult circumstances in history has also spawned numerous books on leadership, some having explored the spiritual side of this great man. This book, "God & Churchill" by Johnathan Sandys takes the exploration of Churchill's Christianity a step further than others.

Sandys begins with a young Churchill chronicling the influence of his parents and governess. He tells of experiences he had as a young soldier, a military leader and then Prime Minister. Each story serves as a stepping stone in Churchill's life that drew him closer to God. These anecdotes reveal a man who understood from an early age his destiny as a leader during dark days of his beloved Britain. It was a challenge he embraced and felt prepared by God for.

The book is an interesting read if for no other reason than to catch a glimpse into this great man's thinking and understanding the influences that prepared him. It isn't obvious to me that Churchill was a Christian, but there is clear evidence he recognized the God of the Bible and believed Him to be the orchestrator of his life. This book helps to fill in some of the gaps of history and is recommended for those who enjoy reading about such men and times as Churchill and WW2.

You can read the first chapter HERE.

Book Review: Agents of Babylon by David Jeremiah

Daniel is one of the most often misunderstood books of the Bible. The visions Daniel receives and recounts are often bizarre and difficult to grasp. It is also a key piece to understanding and interpretation end times prophecies found in other OT books as well as the NT book of Revelation. To the casual Bible student grasping the fullness of the book of Daniel can be daunting. Even among scholars there is debate.

Dr. Jeremiah's book is an attempt to make the book of Daniel more accessible to the average reader. He combines creative prose, retelling the story, with careful exposition to give its meaning. It is part novel and part commentary and it works. I have been a student of Scripture for years and found this book useful. It isn't overly in-depth, but provides a solid start for understanding Daniel, especially for those who are new students of the Bible.

I received this book free from Tyndale Publishing for review purposes.

Book Review: "Visits to Heaven and Back: Are They Real?" by Mark Hitchcock

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale Publishers for the purpose of review.

The afterlife is a subject most of the world is interested in. It transcends religion, economics, politics, and ethnicity. People are driven by curiosity in what happens after we die and there are countless books available that feed the hunger. They contain story after story of visits to heaven and hell without sparing details. So many of the details are contradictory from one tale to another. Which ones are accurate and which aren't? Can we know what is true? Where is truth about heaven and the afterlife found? These are all valid questions that have equally valid answers. Unfortunately, most of the stories of visitations to the afterlife do not tell the truth.

Mark Hitchcock fairly examines the "heaven" books, comparing and contrasting their details and ideas about heaven (and hell). In his examination there are numerous discrepancies discovered and must be accounted for. The author doesn't build a case based upon human experience, but takes the reader to the Bible. It does reveal the reality of a world beyond this one we live in and provides some details of what it is like. Mr. Hitchcock uses the Bible as a source book for details on the place called Hell and shares with the reader the warnings about it. 

I will recommend this book to those who are curious as well as those who have jumped headlong into the "heaven" book phenomenon. It is written in a clear manner that is easily understood. The afterlife is a matter of eternity and we should rely solely upon the one book that can give us the truth about Heaven and Hell.

You can read the first chapter by clicking on this LINK.

Book Review: "Stealing From God: Why atheists need God to make their case" by Frank Turek

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale Publishers for the purpose of review.

It wouldn't make sense for anyone to deny the existence of eyes, but then use them to read a list of reasons why they don't exist. The very act would prove their existence. Frank Turek points out the same inconsistency of atheists in their arguments against the existence of God. The arguments atheists hold to disprove God's existence instead speak volumes in proof of His existence. Using the acrostic C.R.I.M.E.S., Turek exposes the inability of atheists to form a case against God without first "stealing" from God.

This type of book can often be difficult to read or follow because of the style and language. The author presents deep thought and logic in a very accessible manner. He has "moved the cookies to the lower shelf" for the benefit of readers like me. Turek writes with humor and a razor sharp wit without sacrificing substance. He never comes across as arrogant or bitter, but seems to write from genuine humility and care. I appreciate that he didn't simply debunk the arguments of atheists or make a case for God, but pressed on in stressing the evidence for the God of the Bible.

I would recommend this to any Christian reader who is wanting to be equipped to provide an answer for their faith. I would also recommend it to any friend or family member who is looking for answers to life's questions. Lastly, I would recommend it to any atheist or skeptic who has a genuine desire to learn truth.

You can read the first chapter using this LINK.

Uncommon Wisdom for an Uncommon Adventure

I received this book free of charge from Tyndale House Publishers for review purposes.

I have admired Tony Dungy as a coach, a commentator, and a person for years. He has always struck me as humble and firm in his faith with a commitment to excellence. Although it is a devotional, this book has only solidified my opinion of him as a man and a Christian. The book is written for married couples in celebration of the marriage commitment as well as for guidance in day-to-day living for husbands and wives. The core practices described are grounded in Scripture and designed to support eight core principles that will enhance a person's marriage. It is clear that marriage is something they have worked hard at and invested a great deal of time in.

The daily readings aren't going to "fix" problems, but will open the door to developing a greater understanding your spouse. This book is practical and challenging as it calls for husbands and wives to "live out" their commitment to one another. It is an encouragement to not give up hope for those who are struggling as well as a refresher for those who are in a good place, but want to fine tune their relationship with their spouse. Marriage is an adventure that is worth it, make the commitment and take the journey. Take this book along for guidance.

Review of "Son of Hamas" by Mosab Hassan Yousef

As a Bible-believing Christian I have a genuine love for the nation of Israel. This love stems from a greater love for the God of Israel and His Son Jesus Christ. This love is not blind and I fully realize it is not a perfect nation nor are its people perfect. When it comes to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict I admittedly lean more to the Israeli side of the issue. This book has given me a greater understanding and a broader perspective. It provides a glimpse behind the veil of media coverage into the reality of the struggle.

The story of Mosab Hassan Yousef is unique in that, not only is a Palestinian, he is the son of one of the founding members of Hamas. He writes with candidness realizing the weight of what he shares in his story. His is intertwined with the history of the decades old conflict. He provides the reader with the vantage point of a family inextricably caught up in the story struggle, corruption, sorrow, poverty, power, anger, love, hate, and so much more.

The greatest part of the story is the discovery and acceptance of the truth about Jesus Christ. In the midst of a war of hate between two peoples, the Author of love and peace came to dwell in the heart of a confused, bitter young man. His story is one that transcends the chaos he grew up in. The story within the story is how the God of Israel reached out to a hater of the Jews and saved him. I highly recommend reading this book and continuing to follow the story of Mosab Hassan Yousef.

I received this book for free from Tyndale Publishing for the purpose of review.

A Book Review: "The Israeli Solution" by Caroline Glick

When watching, listening to, or reading news, it doesn't take long for the subject of Middle East peace to come up. Opinion pieces, blogs, news sites, magazine and newspaper stories all cover the ongoing saga of the Israeli and Palestinian people. Most are brief and overtly biased offering nothing more than opinion. Caroline Glick provides something of substance regarding this difficult issue in her book "The Israeli Solution". 

The premise of her book is to offer a different perspective and solution to the decades old issue of peace in the Holy Land. In order to do this she provides a well researched and honest history of the events and people connected to the "peace process". The backstory alone is eye opening to say the least. She also spends several chapters outlining the policies of Western powers who have tried to solve the conflict. In this she demonstrates the evolution of foreign policy in its being "dumbed down" and the reasons behind it. 

Perhaps the most compelling support for her proposed solution is in the people themselves. The historical, legal, and religious right of the Jews as well as the social and political betterment of the Palestinian situation is at the heart of her "one-state plan" for peace. She contrasts the conditions of Jews and Israeli Arabs in a free society to those of Palestinian Arabs under the rule of a terrorist regime to make her case.

"The Israeli Solution" is definitely worth the time and should be required reading for politicians connected to the peace process. It is an informative, enlightening gut punch to the modern "peace process". 

I received this book free from the publisher for review purposes.

keeping the charge

"But the priests, the Levites, the sons of Zadok, who kept charge of My sanctuary when the children of Israel went astray from Me, they shall come near Me to minister to Me" - Ezekiel 44.15

Ezekiel prophesied to the Israelites held captive in the land of Babylon who had turned from God, rejecting His Word, and refused to obey His Law. Sadly, the masses were helped along in their rebellion by the religious and spiritual leaders, the priestly line of Levi. These were supposed to be a wall of protection, a preserving agent, against straying from the one true God to follow after the many false gods worshiped by Israel's pagan neighbors. Instead, most forsook the heart and substance of worshipping God in exchange for a hollowed out form of godliness stuffed with the perverse pagan worship of idols, which often involved sexual immorality. To these "who went far from Me when Israel went astray, who strayed away from Me after their idols, they" God said, "shall bear their iniquity" (Ezekiel 44.10). 

In His letter to the church of Thyatira, Jesus called them out for allowing "that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, to teach and seduce My servants to commit sexual immorality and eat things sacrificed to idols" (Revelation 2.20). Much like the priests of Ezekiel's time, the spiritual leaders of the church of Thyatira were guilty of allowing heretical doctrine and a form of worship within the church that pushed physical, as well as spiritual, fornication. Without repentance, these in the church of Thyatira would be held accountable for their wrongdoing and enter the Great Tribulation.

Much like Israel and the church of Thyatira, the Church today is turning away from the one true God to chase after false gods. Among them are the gods of sex and pleasure. And like the days of Israel's fall and Thyatira's corruption, the Church today is being helped along by many of its religious and spiritual leaders. Sexual immorality is being taught from pulpits by men who deny God's word while contorting it to justify their own wicked and perverse fantasies. Wrapped in the paper of God's design for marriage is a package that holds a rotting carcass of fleshly lust, lies, and bondage. Although wildly popular and often respected, these men, too "shall bear their iniquity".

God's word is clear when it comes to the purity and holiness of the Church. We must first understand the relationship the Church has with Jesus Christ as His Bride (Revelation 21.9). To introduce and promote sexual immorality and sexual deviance in the Church is to defile and corrupt Jesus' Bride. Woe to the person who does so! Paul warned the Ephesian believers to not let fornication, uncleanness, filthiness, foolish talking, or coarse jesting even be named among them (Ephesians 5.1-7) because it is "not fitting" for His holy people. To the Philippians he wrote, "whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy - meditate on these things" (Philippians 4.8-9). Peter, quoting Leviticus, said, "but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written 'Be holy, for I am holy'" (1 Peter 1.15,16). 

Here is the believer's charge to keep: "walk worthy of the calling with which you were called" (Ephesians 4.1).

As members of the body and Bride of Christ we have been called to holiness, purity, and righteousness because He who has called us is all of these. In Ezekiel's day the sons of Zadok, also priests of the Levitical line, were faithful and "kept the charge", watching and guarding the sanctuary of the temple to keep it pure. The sanctuary was the place where God's presence dwelt. We are told that our bodies are now the temple of God, His holy sanctuary (1 Corinthians 3.16; 6.19; 2 Corinthians 6.16), and we are to keep charge, watching and guarding it. Zadok's sons were rewarded with closeness to God Himself. Their promised ministry was unto God Himself. As mentioned, we have been given a similar charge and the reward for our faithfulness to keep this charge is intimacy with Him and crowns of righteousness, life, and glory. In these last days "watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong" (1 Corinthians 16.13). 

Book Review: "The Holy Land Key"

As a pastor I often look for books as a resource for personal study as well as those I can recommend to others for their spiritual growth. Pastor Ray Bentley has written such a book. The understanding of the prophecies of Scripture concerning the end times can often be daunting. Bentley's approach provides insights to the study of these ancient prophecies.
He begins with key precepts to studying prophecy so that each student of Scripture begins at a common starting point. He introduces the reader to a modern day prophet, a foundation stone of modern day Israel, and a people straight out of the pages of Bible prophecy. Bentley helps the reader to understand that the "key" to prophecy is Israel and the importance of reading the words of the ancient prophets through the lives of God's people in Israel.
It is clear that Pastor Bentley has the heart of a teacher. His writing is casual and clear in order to bring the reader to a better understanding of his topic. This is a book I will keep in my personal study library as well as recommend to others.
I received this book for free fromBlogging for Books for this review. 
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separated by sin

"But your iniquities have separated you from your God; And your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He will not hear." ~ Isaiah 59.2

In Isaiah's day the Israelites complained that God could not hear their prayers and petitions. They faced adversaries from without and troubles from within, but God did nothing to help them. Fasting was ordered and fervent prayers were offered in an unsuccessful attempt to stir Him. Grumbling and complaint rose ever louder against the Lord in those days. They cried out "Why have we fasted and You have not seen? Why have we afflicted our souls, and You take no notice?" (58.3) The perception was that He could not respond to their demands. The reality was that He would not.

For the believer, sin undealt with is a barrier in the relationship with God. Whether it is willful negligence or unknown oversight, sin that has yet to be repented of hinders the prayers and worship of the believer. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus made the point that a person should press the pause button when offering a sacrifice if he remembers an issue between himself and a brother (Matthew 5.23-26). In other words, if they sinned against another they were to make that relationship right by confessing their sin and asking forgiveness from the brother sinned against. Why? so the sacrifice would be accepted. The psalmist wrote, "If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear" (Psalm 66.18). Although it is not an issue of salvation for the believer, sin can separate us from the blessing, benefit, and protection of God as well as the relationship with God; however, the believer will never be separated from God Himself.

The unbeliever who refuses to acknowledge sin, repent and receive forgiveness will not only miss out on the blessing, benefit, and protection of God, but will be separated from God Himself! The only prayer the Lord will hear from the unbeliever is one of broken surrender in repentance and seeking the forgiveness He offers through Jesus Christ.

Believer, ask God to reveal any unknown and/or unrepented of sin. When the light of the Holy Spirit shines in the dark recesses of your soul be willing to confess, repent and ask forgiveness from God and anyone you might have sinned against. Then walk by faith in the joy of a restored relationship with your Father in heaven.

Unbeliever, confess, repent of, and ask forgiveness for your sin. Receive from Jesus Christ the cleansing that comes by faith through His shed blood and experience the new life given by the Holy Spirit. You, too, will then experience the joy of a relationship with the One who made and purchased you at His greatest expense.

Interesting Article on the Current Church Growth Movement

Why I Oppose The Church Growth Movement

This is an interesting opinion piece that is worth the read.

mighty preparation

"Now for the house of my God I have prepared with all my might" - 1 Chronicles 29.2

David was nearing the end of his life and he knew it. Earlier David brought the ark of God from the house of Obed-Edom to Jerusalem where he had prepared a tabernacle for it. David's desire was to build a house for the ark of the covenant of the Lord. He was a worshiper who loved the Lord with all that he was. His motive was not selfish, but flowed from a heart that was set on and sought after the Lord's own heart.

Although his motive was pure God did not allow him to follow through. The Lord sent the prophet Nathan to David with these words, "You shall not build Me a house to dwell in. And it shall be when your days are fulfilled, when you must go to be with your fathers, that I will set up your seed after you, who will be of your sons; and I will establish his kingdom. He shall build Me a house, and I will establish his throne forever" (1 Chronicles 17.4, 11-12). David was humbled and greatly rejoiced at the words of God's promise to him. 

God forbade him from building a place for the ark of God, but David did not simply rest and take it easy. Chapters 22-28 of 1 Chronicles are an account of the preparations David made for the building of the temple. He gathered the materials, ordered the divisions of the Levites, the priests, the musicians, the gatekeepers, and the treasuries. He gave specific instructions to his son, Solomon, and charged him to build the temple. He set everything in place for the construction of the temple and he did it with all his might.

David was not allowed by God to build the house of his God; however, he continued with all his might to make preparations so that someone else could. To what work has God closed the door to you that you have simply ignored in frustration? Is it possible that He would have you and I to continue to prepare for it with "all my might" so that someone else could complete the work? Consider that continued prayer for the work goes much farther in preparing the work for completion than the mere gathering of materials. Dedicate yourself to this even though you have been forbidden from doing the work yourself.

the first step

"When he turned his back to leave Samuel, God gave him another heart. And all these signs came to pass that day." - 1 Samuel 10.9 (ESV)

Saul, on a mission to find his missing donkeys, was met by the seer, Samuel, with a message from God. Israel wanted a king and he was the one chosen for the job. Of course, the news was received with disbelief as Saul politely protested that he was the least of his family which was least in the least tribe of Israel. He, like Moses, had many excuses as to why this plan wouldn't work. 

Nevertheless, Samuel stuck with God's word and anointed Saul king of Israel. He gave Saul a series of signs that he should expect in order to prove that God had chosen him as the "prince over His heritage". Notice that  when he turned to leave then God touched him and changed his heart.

The first step is the most important one. Nothing happened until Saul turned to go and then God touched him. If you continued to read the story you would discover that all of the signs that Samuel spoke of came to pass and Saul did eventually concede the fact that he was king. Unfortunately, Saul's life cannot be used as a good example of a godly man because it ended in tragedy due to his disobedience and unfaithfulness to the Lord. However, his first step can be a source of encouragement.

Has the Lord spoken to you and given specific direction for your life, but nothing has happened yet? It's possible that you have doubts and fears that cause you to make excuses as to why it won't work. Here's the solution: turn and take the first step. It's the first step that signifies faith and obedience. It's the first step, no matter how small, that opens wide the door for God to come in and accomplish His will in you.

face to face with God

Moses had no end of trouble from the children of Israel as he led them through the wilderness. They were complainers, gripers, grumblers, malcontents, etc. Nothing was good enough for them - not even the presence of God Himself. He went before them in a pillar of cloud by day and fire by night yet they failed to trust Him. 
Moses faced opposition from the general mass of people as well as from his own family. The day came when Aaron and Miriam, the brother and sister of Moses, challenged his position as God's chosen leader. Their complaint stemmed from jealousy causing them to defy God's order as they questioned, "Has the LORD indeed spoken only through Moses? Has He not spoken through us also?" God had indeed spoken through them and they made the mistake of assuming that God spoke through Moses in the same manner as He spoke through them.

Ultimately God shut them down with a warning, in the form of leprosy, to never go there again. The part that interests me most about this episode is how God described Moses when rebuking the siblings. Read on:

"Hear now My words:

If there is a prophet among you, 

I, the LORD, make Myself

known to him in a vision;

I speak to him in a dream.

Not so with My servant Moses;

He is faithful in all My house.

I speak with him face to face.

Even plainly, and not in

dark sayings;

And he sees the form of the LORD.

Why then were you not afraid

to speak against My servant Moses?"

Numbers 12.6-8 (NKJV)

He spoke to others through dreams and visions, but with Moses He met face to face. He spoke plainly with Him as with a friend and Moses saw "the form of the LORD", which was most likely a pre-incarnate appearance of Christ. God had a close and personal relationship with Moses. Go back for a  moment to the years in Egypt and the decades in the backside of the desert herding goats. During those years this intimacy did not exist and yet it was through those years that God was working to bring Moses to this point. 

God used the early struggles of Moses: the murder of the Egyptian, his rejection by the Israelites, fleeing in fear of the justice of Pharaoh, loneliness and futility herding the flocks of another. Each experience, each event, each year served as a test or trial. As the trials piled up Moses' character was being shaped under the pressure. He came through the other side formed into the meekest man to live and a friend of God whom God met with face to face.

flesh pots or bread from heaven?

The children of Israel were, at times, complainers. As they traversed the wilderness between Egypt and the Promised Land of Canaan they griped and grumbled while asking why Moses brought them out to this barren place to die. In the eleventh chapter of Numbers we read of their tiring of manna and an intense craving for meat. Once again they cried out against God, complaining about the food He faithfully provided them in the barren wasteland. They began to focus on the menu that was available to them back in Egypt, showing contempt for God's provision.

Moses grew angry with them and ultimately asked the Lord to kill him rather than burden him with this people any longer. God's response was to send to Moses seventy men anointed by the Spirit to assist him in bearing the burden of this troublesome and whiny people. He also sent quail, lots and lots of quail, to the discontented people of Israel.  There were so many that they stacked up three feet deep a days journey in any direction from the camp. 

The people worked quickly to gather up as many quail as they could. It would seem that they tore into the uncooked flesh of the quail in order to satiate their ravenous lust for meat. In doing so they brought the anger of the Lord upon themselves in the form of a plague that destroyed a great number of them.

Ultimately the failure of the Israelites was their failure to trust God. Their complaints were a symptom of faithlessness. They did not trust God which led to an inability to appreciate God and be thankful for what He had already given them. In their lust for the things of Egypt they neglected to honor the One who brought them out of bondage.

As a child of God I have been delivered from the chains the world held me in for the first twenty years of my life. The Lord's faithfulness to me has been nothing short of amazing as He provides for me physically, materially, spiritually, and in every other way. However, He doesn't simply provide for me. That is not His intent. Instead He is the provision.

There are seasons in my life when I find myself in the wilderness. The temptation I face most often while there is that of the Israelites...to complain because of fleshly desires. I take for granted the provision of the Lord, rejecting what He has given in my unthankfulness and hungering for the "flesh pots of Egypt". In reality I am rejecting Him.

Guard your heart against the lusts of the flesh. Trust the Lord and be thankful for His provision - Him - in wilderness journeys and every other season of life.

it's been a while

I have been away from this for too long. I apologize to anyone and everyone who has come back to this page wanting to read something new. It's been a dry season, but I look forward to posting regularly again.