Epic Failure

One of the most beloved Bible stories for people of all ages is Daniel in the Lion's Den. We are inspired by the great faithfulness Daniel showed to prayer and to God, and by God's response of deliverance by sending an angel to be with Daniel.

Often overlooked is the other key player in the story—King Darius. The sixth chapter of Daniel contains his example as a biblical outline for resolution of epic failure.

1. Snare

So these governors and satraps thronged before the king: "King Darius, live forever! … establish a royal statute and to make a firm decree, that whoever petitions any god or man for thirty days, except you, O king, shall be cast into the den of lions." … Therefore King Darius signed the written decree. (v. 6-7, 9)

Fear or lust can be the snare that sets us up for an epic failure. But they are rooted in what is surely the number one reason we fail: pride.

2. Disaster

"That Daniel, who is one of the captives from Judah, does not show due regard for you, O king, or for the decree that you have signed, but makes his petition [to his God] three times a day." (v. 13)

Do we ever see them coming—the consequences of those failures that rise to being called "epic"?

3. Acceptance of Responsibility

And the king, when he heard these words, was greatly displeased with himself … (v. 14)

When faced with epic failure, our first temptation may be to deflect blame. Accepting appropriate responsibility and repenting of the sinful action that set up the disaster isn't just the right thing to do. It also puts us in the best position to seek solution.

4. Immediate Remedy

… and set his heart on Daniel to deliver him; and he labored till the going down of the sun to deliver him. (v. 14)

Our failures affect those around us. Honest repentance will immediately look for a way to remedy the injury we've done to another.

5. Adherence to Righteousness

"Know, O king, that it is the law of the Medes and Persians that no decree or statute which the king establishes may be changed." So the king gave the command, and they brought Daniel and cast him into the den of lions. (v. 15-16)

The temptation may arise to obtain remedy by any means possible. We may rationalize that a new sin remedies the greater evil of the first. To plot the course away from sin and all its evil consequences, we must adhere to paths of righteousness.

6. Release to God in Faith

But the king spoke, saying to Daniel, "Your God, whom you serve continually, He will deliver you." (v. 16)

Whatever remedy we are able to effect, we are completely inadequate to restore the damage that results from sin. But we serve the Lord YHWH, our Deliverer from death and sin. We can turn to Him for remedy and restoration of anything.

7. Persistence in Prayer

Now the king went to his palace and spent the night fasting; and no musicians were brought before him. Also his sleep went from him. (v. 18)

Perhaps King Darius did not spend the night praying. And our prayers need not include fasting from food and sleep. But when we are desperate, emptying ourselves is one way of inviting God to step into a situation in a much bigger way than He might otherwise.

8. Expectation for Good Outcome

And when he came to the den, he cried out with a lamenting voice … "Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God, whom you serve continually, been able to deliver you from the lions?" (v. 20)

God works all for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28), even their own failures. No matter how "epic" our failure, God's ability to effect good through it is greater yet.

9. Action to Prevent Future Failure

And the king gave the command, and they brought those men who had accused Daniel, and they cast them into the den of lions … (v. 24)

King Darius held the position to rightly execute those who conspired to use him in the effort to murder Daniel. We should be as ruthless in rooting out of our lives all evil that leads to sin.

10. Glory to God

Then King Darius wrote:
To all peoples, nations, and languages that dwell in all the earth:
Peace be multiplied to you. I make a decree that in every dominion of my kingdom men must tremble and fear before the God of Daniel.
For He is the living God,
And steadfast forever;
His kingdom is the one which shall not be destroyed,
And His dominion shall endure to the end.
He delivers and rescues,
And He works signs and wonders In heaven and on earth,
Who has delivered Daniel from the power of the lions. (v. 25-27)

May we never fail to give thanks and glory to our Lord, Deliverer from epic failure!

~ ~ ~

"And some of those of understanding shall fall, to refine them, purify them, and make them white, until the time of the end."
~ Daniel 11:35 (NKJV)

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Copyright 2013, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

Confessions

This post is part of a blog carnival hosted by Bridget Chumbley at her site "One Word at a Time." You're invited to see what others are saying about today's theme: Reconciliation.

"Find the Lord before you need Him."
~ Randy Travis

Please don't hold it against me if I confess that I genuinely like math. It is objective, absolute, and reliable. In a fallen world, math holds true. I notice symmetry in art and architecture, in poetry and even prose, whether overt, subtle, or hidden. I had to quit Sudoku when it became addictive.

And I enjoy old-fashioned checkbook reconciliation, neatly reconciling my manual entries with the bank to the penny.

Years ago we had fewer dollars, so account balances were closely watched. But now, unless a large expense necessitates knowing our exact balance, I simply stay aware of roughly how much money is available rather than keep a running balance. So checkbook reconciliation done every month or two also determines if we have as much money as I think we do.

It is quite rare, but I also confess to occasionally receiving a Transfer Notice from the bank, when I've become distracted and had a skewed perception of our balance. I'm seriously annoyed with myself if that happens. But we've never had problems (thank You thank You THANK YOU, Lord!) because we maintain a savings cushion, however thin it gets.

"Why do you spend money for what is not bread,
And your wages for what does not satisfy?
Listen carefully to Me, and eat what is good,
And let your soul delight itself in abundance..."
Seek the LORD while He may be found,
Call upon Him while He is near.
~ Isaiah 55:2,6 (NKJV)

I don't like making this next confession: I reached a point of trying to get away with roughing it in my spiritual life. Jesus and I connected 25 years ago, and I've stayed faithful to maintain my spiritual life, replenishing my cushion of spiritual strength so that it rarely got anywhere close to beaten down. I attached myself to my Father's leg like a toddler in a crowd or a storm.

Then I got sloppy. I'd like to think I didn't take my Father for granted. Perhaps asking for conviction and then repenting became routine, and I wasn't going as deep. I know I got distracted. I started out by holding onto my Father, then gradually started to just maintain an awareness of His whereabouts to grab onto Him if something big necessitated it.

When the big storm did hit, I realized I wasn't exactly where I thought. My Father hadn't moved, and I managed to grab onto the solid, absolute, and reliable Rock which has always supported me. But I hadn't adequately replenished the spiritual cushion I'd been drawing from. I landed on that Rock with a painful thud. I hadn't accurately perceived my spiritual condition.

You will keep in perfect peace,
The one fixed upon You,
Because he trusts in You.
Trust in the LORD forever,
For YAH, the LORD, is the Rock of Ages.
~ Isaiah 26:3-4 (author)

Jesus reconciled us to the Father with His blood. Reconciliation is also a matter of being fixed upon the Lord, daily taking account of our closeness to Him, and asking how His assessment compares. Getting distracted or sloppy results in skewed perceptions of our spiritual condition. The time to find the right place with the Lord is most definitely before you most need Him.

Lord, I love You more than I can express and less than is adequate. I shudder to think of how I've taken You for granted. Please let me not grow complacent. Please give me strength and desire to follow hard after You every day of my life, without growing weary.

I appreciate hearing from you. Questions are welcome. Reply to BuildingHisBody.com comments or e-mail me—my address is
buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com.
Copyright 2010, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
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Hour of His Judgment

Then I saw another angel flying in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach to those who dwell on the earth to every nation, tribe, tongue, and people, saying with a loud voice,
"Fear God and give glory to Him,
for the hour of His judgment has come;
and worship Him who made heaven and earth,
the sea and springs of water."
~ Revelation 14:6-7 (NKJV)

... and they blasphemed the name of God who has power over these plagues; and they did not repent and give Him glory.
~ Revelation 16:9 (NKJV)

Hour of His Judgment

Genesis 1:1 opens the Bible with a simple introduction of the Creator as "Elohim," a Hebrew word which also denotes a judge's authority.

The book of Revelation closes the Bible with a depiction of the last days of human dominion on our planet. Over and over, praise for the Lord God Almighty and His sovereignty is abundantly manifest.

God's angel commands in chapter 14 that the Creator be feared and glorified by His creation in the hour of His judgment. The Maker wrote upon the conscience of humanity His judgments of all that is right and wrong. He now demands an account.

To blaspheme one's Maker at any other time would merit sound rebuke. To blaspheme Him in the hour of His judgment when His wrath climaxes might be compared to a convicted felon giving an angry human justice the finger and maligning his reputation as he pronounces sentence. Such resolve proves the righteousness of God's wrath against Evil.

In our limited view of spiritual matters, we sometimes question an everyday hour of His judgment, whether of right and wrong, of what He asks from us, or as He acts in our lives. Faith believes that He has the wisdom, authority and love of perfect justice, saying, "Lord God Almighty, true and righteous are Your judgments."

Sovereign Lord, give us patience for the day when we will see all from Your perspective. Please increase our faith to fully trust You in matters yet unseen.

I appreciate hearing from you. Questions are welcome. Reply to BuildingHisBody.com comments or e-mail me—my address is
buildingHisbody [plus] @gmail.com.
Copyright 2010, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
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Question of the Week: Is Self-Defense Biblical?

"All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing."
~ Edmund Burke (1729-1797),
Irish statesman who supported American revolutionaries

: : :

"Is self-defense biblical?"
~ Abbey S., Michigan


The question implies use of deadly weapons. The Bible provides interesting contrasts about "the sword." Consider two directives from Jesus on the night He was arrested:

"But now, he who has a money bag, let him take it, and likewise a knapsack; and he who has no sword, let him sell his garment and buy one." (Luke 22:36 NKJV)

"Put your sword in its place, for all who take the sword will perish by the sword. Or do you think that I cannot now pray to My Father, and He will provide Me with more than twelve legions of angels?" (Matthew 26:52-53 NKJV)

Contrast brings balanced perspective. Context is critical.

In the second passage, Jesus asserts the adequacy of defense from God and the peril of living with reliance on weaponry.

Yet weapons can serve godly purposes. In the first passage, Jesus gives new marching orders for going out into the world with the Gospel, instructing self-sufficiency which prepares for hazards. One way to avert violence—whether on a personal or national level—is to display strength and ability of defense with refusal to use it offensively.

Weapons serve other purposes of God's will. Governing authorities are called ministers of God, entrusted with use of force to suppress evil (Romans 13:1-4). Soldiers who accepted the Gospel were instructed to not intimidate others rather than to shun use of force altogether (Luke 3:14).

God also employs human weaponry as His own sword (Deuteronomy 32:39-42; Isaiah 34:5; Ezekiel 30:25). This same principle is evident throughout the book of Revelation.

"You have heard that it was said, 'an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.' But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also."
~ Matthew 5:38-39 (NKJV)

These words of Jesus are sometimes used to argue against self-defense. The context is examples of how to bless others. Jesus observes that a directive for equity in payment of damages had become justification for retaliation. Scripture condemns vengeance and exhorts tolerance of insult, teaching there is blessing in suffering for the sake of righteousness (Matthew 5:10; 1 Peter 3:14). The early church set an example of enduring violence, but they also took measures to avoid being victims of violence.

Every person must apply these passages as faith and conscience dictate. There is room in Christianity for both pacifists and warriors. I'll share my personal application.

As a former police officer, and now the wife of a police officer, I know anarchy would result if government did not provide civilian and military defense. I also know the danger of displaying a firearm unless one is prepared to use it. Bluffing is more dangerous than being unarmed.

As a student of history, I know that oppression results when citizenry's ownership of arms is abolished by government. I support the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

If I were in a position to defend the lives of others from criminal violence, my preferred weapon is a pump action shotgun, which unequivocally communicates strength of defense so it might not be necessary to use deadly force.

But if my life alone was threatened, I'd guess my offender is less prepared than me to meet our Maker. As my King's ambassador, I'm less inclined to use a weapon of steel as I am to take up the sword of the Spirit for my defense.

© 2010 Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
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: : :

This post originally appeared at Bullets & Butterflies. To see additional comments containing ongoing dialogue, click here.

Sharp Two-edged Sword

"Most people are bothered by those passages in Scripture that they cannot understand; but as for me, I always noticed that the passages in Scripture that trouble me most are those that I do understand."
~ Mark Twain

Sharp Two-edged Sword

These things says He who has the sharp two-edged sword:
"I know your works ... And you hold fast to My name ... But I have a few things against you, because you have there those who hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught ... to eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit sexual immorality... Repent, or else I will come to you quickly and will fight against them with the sword of My mouth."
~ Revelation 2:12-16 (NKJV)

"And that servant who knew his master's will, and did not prepare himself or do according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. But he who did not know, yet committed things deserving of stripes, shall be beaten with few. For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required ..."
~ Luke 12:47-48 (NKJV)

To the church at Pergamos Jesus portrays Himself with a sword. The sword of the Spirit is the Word of God. The Word alone was powerful enough to create the universe. When He was tempted Jesus used Scripture to defeat the devil. Jesus is named both Bread of Life and Word of God.

He is prepared to use this sword against whom? Those in the church with bad doctrine, who give a nod to what is immoral.

Good and bad religion will be addressed in the next post from Revelation, in examining Jesus' words to the church in Thyatira. For now it's sufficient to point out the words of Jesus from Luke. While knowing His will and disregarding it shall certainly be dealt with, even failing to heed His will out of ignorance brings consequences.

Before thinking "unfair," consider that God gives us consciences. His moral law is written on hearts that can remain ignorant of His Word and still be guilty. How much more so might He expect those of us with abundant access to the Bible to understand our Master's will and do it?

Our most wealthy nation's greatest treasure are the Bibles available everywhere. We are stewards not only of the material riches entrusted to us, but especially of God's Word.

Bread of Life, we live not on bread alone but upon every word from Your mouth. You give our souls the sustenance of eternal life. Please increase our desire for and understand of the Bible that we might learn it, love it, and live it.

Contrasting points-of-view, questions and feedback are invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2010, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
#Bible
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Good Investment Return

"Try not to become a man of success
but rather to become a man of value."
~ Albert Einstein

Good Investment Return
#discipleship

Not unto us, O LORD, not unto us,
But to Your name give glory,
Because of Your mercy,
Because of Your truth.
Why should the Gentiles say,
"So where is their God?"
~ Psalms 115:1-2 (NKJV)

"But his lord answered and said to him, 'You wicked and lazy servant ... you ought to have deposited my money with the bankers, and at my coming I would have received back my own with interest."
~ Matthew 25:26-27 (NKJV)

"You are the light of the world... Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."
~ Matthew 5:14-16 (NKJV)

Ever hear just a portion of a sermon and that's really all you need? I recently caught part of a message which asked the rhetorical question, "What do you expect when you make an investment?" Obviously, we want a good return.

The Lord does not simply hope for, but expects a good return on the time, treasure and talents He's invested in us. The parable of the talents stresses that the Lord considers the servant who gives no return to His master not merely lazy but also wicked.

For what return does the Lord look? The Word of God planted as seed and watered by the Spirit should produce the fruit of love, joy, peace, patient longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Yet all of these qualities are not to build up a good name for ourselves, but so that whatever name we have exalts our sole Investor—our soul Investor.

It is not good Christians the world must see, but a good God.

Lord, I pray today especially for those of us who use social media to speak through the internet. Please make us ever mindful that we represent You, Who has entrusted to us access to the world. May our words make manifest to the world Your mercy and truth and glory.

Contrasting points-of-view, questions and feedback are invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.
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Numbers

"What is many men's business is nobody's business.
The greatest things are accomplished by individual men."
~ Charles H. Spurgeon

Numbers

#biblestudy

Those who were numbered of the tribe of Dan were sixty-two thousand seven hundred.
~ Numbers 1:39 (NKJV)

Dan shall be a serpent by the way,
A viper by the path,
That bites the horse's heels
So that its rider shall fall backward.
~ Genesis 49:17 (NKJV)

No passage of the Bible is boring. Today's passage is Numbers 1-2. It is a detailed account of ... numbers; the numbers and names and camp assignments of the twelve tribes of Israel. On their face, the two chapters look like read-when-you're-trying to fall asleep material.

But look! The nondescript tribe of Dan is prominent. It is the second largest of all the tribes, and is given a curious position of leadership in the encampment layout. This is especially interesting because Revelation 7:5-8 omits the tribe of Dan from the 144,000 of Israel who are sealed in end times. What caused Dan go from prominent leader to forsaken?

The tribe of Dan is otherwise noteworthy only for the precedence it set as idolatrous and rebellious in the account of Judges 17-18. One woman led her Danite son into idolatry. He led a Levite priest into idolatry, and they together influenced five other Danites. The tribe then forsook the central land allotted to them by God to instead obtain their territory in the farthermost north—by their own strength.

No man or woman is without the potential to wield influence which will endure for even thousands of years. No act of disobedience is without its consequences as we fall backward.

Oh Lord, thank You for the value You place on every human life. Thank You for seeing and loving and gifting each of us as individuals. Please let us live up to all the potential You give us. Please let us see no act of obedience or act of turning away from You as insignificant. Please let us see no person as insignificant.

Contrasting points-of-view, questions and feedback are invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

Response to Unrighteous Authority

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal,
that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights,
that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.
~ Declaration of Independence

For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil... But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God's minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil.
~ Romans 13:3-4 (NKJV)

Peter and the other apostles replied: "We must obey God rather than men!"
~ Acts 5:29 (NIV)

"The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat. Therefore whatever they tell you to observe, that observe and do, but do not do according to their works ... For they bind heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on men's shoulders ..."
~ Matthew 23:2-4 (NKJV)

With the authority entrusted to rulers comes the power to execute authority, and the responsibility to use that power righteously. Failure to do so inevitably leads to an authority's demise. (Biblical examples abound.)

The founding fathers of the United States unequivocally affirmed in the Declaration of Independence their belief that Great Britain's "absolute Tyranny" compelled a "duty to throw off such government." But they first stated their belief "that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes."

Defiance of authority comes with a cost, and perhaps a penalty. We are wise if when we consider defiance we consider its penalty. Departure is another option, whether departure from a spouse, a local church, an employer—or even government, if one is willing to go into exile. If we prefer departure to defiance, we do well to evaluate not only the cost of broken relationship, but also if the alternative relationship (or lack thereof) really offers greater advantage than escaping whatever we suffer in the present relationship.

When does an authority's abuse of power rise to a level which warrants defiance?

Years ago, before he was my pastor, I heard Dean Stewart teach: "Civil disobedience is justified when government commands what God forbids, or forbids what God commands." He spoke of government authority. I would apply the principle to any authority.

I've observed Christians challenge authority for trivial matters, whether a wife resisting husband, citizen defying civil ordinance, or Church member scoffing at the leadership ordained to shepherd Christ's flock. (Anyone who belongs to Christ is a member of His Church.) Submission can be inconvenient, annoying, and costly. But the Bible says submit to authority, without qualifying "if it suits you to do so."

The other extreme is the belief that you submit to authority at any price. I've known of women taught to allow a husband's abuse in the name of submission. I've observed church elders (none of my present ones) lay heavy burdens upon others which simply could not be borne. We are all witnesses to a government which projects itself as god of provision, protection, and programmed thought—to the point of oppressing the unalienable rights upon which our nation was built.

When does oppression justify opposition? When should a Christian defy authority?

My answer is, "When authority commands what God forbids, or forbids what God commands."

But there is also a trump card to be played. Come back tomorrow.

Lord Jesus, my heart is heavy to think of all the abuse of authority I've witnessed. You've seen infinitely more, and have borne far more grief for it—borne it all the way to the cross. Please enlighten us in how to defend the oppressed, as well as how to uphold authority, and thus honor You.

Contrasting points-of-view, questions and feedback are invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

Destroying Enemies

"Am I not destroying my enemies when I make friends of them?"
~ Abraham Lincoln

If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.
Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath;
for it is written, "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," says the Lord.
Therefore "If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
If he is thirsty, give him a drink;
For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head."
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
~ Romans 12:18-21 (NKJV)

Who is the man who desires life,
And loves many days, that he may see good? ...
Depart from evil and do good;
Seek peace and pursue it.
~ Psalms 34:12,14 (NKJV)

Whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.
~ Galatians 6:7 (NKJV)

Ask yourself: how often have you thought life would be easier if any particular person didn't exist? For a person to stop existing (around us) requires death. Wishing a person gone really amounts to wishing them dead. Is this not murder in the heart?

The Lord provides far better ways to destroy enemies.

First, if retribution seems appropriate, consider that the Lord sees the full extent of evil in a person's heart, has all rights of vengeance, and can exact punishment more effectively than we can. Stay out of His way.

Secondly, if we wish to overcome an enemy, the superior force against evil is not evil, but good. If enemy becomes friend by the force of good, is he or she not defeated as an enemy?

Last, we do well to remember that not only does the Bible admonish us that we reap what we sow, but that the good life is found in making peace—if it is possible, as much as depends on us. Not every enemy will make peace. But in the very pursuit of peace we capture the good life.

Father God, we were once Your enemies. You have overcome us with Your love and goodness, poured out upon us with the blood of Your Son. He supplies peace beyond understanding. We thank You for such peace and ask that You enable us to bring it to others.

[Note: I have spoken here concerning individuals. I am neither a pacifist, nor do I condemn pacifists acting according to conscience. I support righteous government's duty to preserve our security, with force when necessary. I also support the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution. More about government next week from Romans 13.]

Your questions and feedback are invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

Friends

"When the character of a man is not clear to you, look at his friends."
~ Japanese Proverb

1 Corinthians 5:9-11 (GW):
In my letter to you I told you not to associate with people who continue to commit sexual sins. I didn't tell you that you could not have any contact with unbelievers who commit sexual sins, are greedy, are dishonest, or worship false gods. If that were the case, you would have to leave this world. Now, what I meant was that you should not associate with people who call themselves brothers or sisters in the Christian faith but live in sexual sin, are greedy, worship false gods, use abusive language, get drunk, or are dishonest. Don't [have fellowship] with such people.

Perhaps it seems ironic, but Paul instructs that while we may associate with immoral unbelievers, we should not maintain friendships with those who identify themselves as Christians yet behave otherwise.

It's a matter of how much influence they're positioned to have in our lives.

Do not be deceived: "Bad company ruins good morals."
~ 1 Corinthians 15:33 (ESV)

Feedback appreciated! Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

Exhibit D: Commandment

Therefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy and just and good.
~ Romans 7:12 (NKJV)

You are near, O LORD,
And all Your commandments are truth.
~ Psalms 119:151 (NKJV)

"Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy... For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it."
~ Exodus 20:8-11 (NKJV)

Paul continues to build his case for Christ in Romans 7, and brings forth God's commandment as "holy and just and good." C.S. Lewis in Mere Christianity also argued that logically, humans could not inherently know good from evil unless a Creator had so defined them first.

Across all cultures, things such as murder, theft, adultery, and lying have long been understood as wrong. In this era of relativism, however, truth is no longer seen as absolute. So permit me to use the commandment as proof of God on something yet considered absolute: numbers.

Solar and lunar cycles define years and months. But how did the day become established on two twelve-hour cycles (as in the Bible)? Why is counting ordered on the number ten (as in the Bible)? I suppose an argument might be made that those numbers easily suited themselves to mathematical equations—but then why aren't both systems the same?

And if mankind evolved, how did cultures which span language and distance and religion all come up with a week measured with the oddball number seven—apart from God and His commandment?

Reason demands that these things could only be defined by God. It also says that if numbers are still rational and real and absolute, so is the immorality of murder, theft, adultery, and lying.

Almighty God, Creator and Redeemer, Your commandment is indeed holy and just and good. It reveals Your Person. It reveals Your promises. It reveals Your plan for our lives if we will but heed You. Please break our resolve wherever we wander from the commandment with which You bless us.

Feedback appreciated! Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

Exhibit B: Conscience

Exhibit B: Conscience

For when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do the things in the law, these ... show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and between themselves their thoughts accusing or else excusing them ...
~ Romans 2:14-15 (NKJV)

When I kept silent, my bones grew old
Through my groaning all the day long.
For day and night Your hand was heavy upon me;
My vitality was turned into the drought of summer.
~ Psalms 32:3-4 (NKJV)

"And when He [the Holy Spirit] has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: of sin, because they do not believe in Me ..."
~ John 16:8-9 (NKJV)

Paul lays out in the book of Romans a methodical case for Christianity. In chapter one, he establishes the existence of the Creator, and the Creator's denial of true atheism (see Without Excuse, Tuesday's post).

In chapter two of Romans, Paul establishes the existence of moral law, and therefore a Lawgiver. In a preemptive strike, he declares "inexcusable" any attempt for one person to use the law for condemnation of another (Grace, yesterday's post).

At the same time, Paul uses the existence of law to condemn us all in the sight of God. The proof of moral law's existence lies in conscience. Even a child understands the suffering of a soul which has chosen to do what it knows to be wrong. The psalmist's lament to God, "Your hand was heavy upon me" testifies to the voice of conscience, which some call the voice of God in the soul. One can indeed argue that the voice of conscience is the voice of the Holy Spirit, speaking conviction for sin. To blaspheme the Holy Spirit's testimony is to commit the unpardonable sin.

There are numerous and far more educated scholars who have elaborated upon this point at great length, C.S. Lewis foremost among them. Here I simply present to you Paul's exhibit B in His case for Christianity, an item familiar to us all. He names it conscience.

Our Father God and Creator, You are our Lawgiver. You show us clearly, "This is the way—walk in it." Please make our hearts tender to hear You, and our souls strong to heed You. Please lead us to repent quickly when we've been wrong.

Feedback appreciated! Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

Without Excuse

For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened.
~ Romans 1:18-21 (NKJV)

Oh come, let us worship and bow down; Let us kneel before the LORD our Maker.
~ Psalms 95:6 (NKJV)

God doesn't believe in atheists.

He says that they are among those who knew Him, but suppressed the truth, became futile in thought, and their foolish hearts became dark. They may deny His existence, but God's Word says they in fact know otherwise.

Whatever argument a person may use to dispute that a Creator owns the world and has a right to judge it as He wishes, God Himself says men are without excuse for whatever point they have turned away from their Creator.

Countering the assertion that a loving God wouldn't send anyone to hell is the logic that a loving God does not allow sin into heaven and make it the same hell that earth has become; a loving God does not ignore justice for those who have been wronged; a loving God does not allow men to slip into hell in ignorance, but exhibits Himself in creation so that He may be known before He is rejected.

It is far less amazing that a loving God would allow men who have chosen hell to go into hell than it is that a righteous God would allow an innocent Man to die so that unrighteous men might avoid condemnation.

Oh Lord, our Creator, You have manifested Yourself in the stars, the mighty mountains, and the universe contained in the DNA of a single cell. We ourselves are fearfully and wonderfully made. You own all creation and You own us. Please give us hearts to yield to Your continuing work of creation in making us new.

Feedback appreciated! Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

Pilgrimage

Blessed are those who dwell in Your house;
They will still be praising You.
Selah
Blessed is the man whose strength is in You,
Whose heart is set on pilgrimage.
~ Psalms 84:4-5 (NKJV)

"His lord said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.' "
~ Matthew 25:23 (NKJV)

From 24-years-ago Colorado, vacations were 150-250 miles per day on two-lanes for a couple of leisurely weeks to enjoy vistas as far north and west as Jasper and Vancouver. From Michigan, vacation is now 1300 freeway miles in 24 hours before enjoying a lively two-week visit in Colorado—or a quick skip by plane or car for a whirlwind long-weekend.

Clichés abound about life being a journey not a destination. Yet we still allow packed-to-the-brim days to deny us appreciation for the pilgrimage of life. Our eternal destination lies in one of two places. How we journey there is a test to determine eternal destiny.

Kingdom life will one day be a glorious and leisurely pleasure of praise amid people we love in a place to exceed any earthly locale. For now the kingdom is a pilgrimage, often to unexpected places. Wherever life takes us, before our eyes is a panorama of opportunities to seek God, love people, and appreciate the experience.

Good Shepherd, You lead us to green pasture and beside still waters. You carry us through the land that is plentiful and the desert place, and show us the beauty in each. Open our eyes to see the beauty and goodness You wait to reveal in even our lowest hours.

Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

The Wrath of Man

Surely the wrath of man shall praise thee:
the remainder of wrath shalt thou restrain.
~ Psalms 76:10 (KJV)

The LORD has made all for Himself,
Yes, even the wicked for the day of doom.
~ Proverbs 16:4 (NKJV)

For if God ... delivered righteous Lot, who was oppressed by the filthy conduct of the wicked (for that righteous man, dwelling among them, tormented his righteous soul from day to day by seeing and hearing their lawless deeds)—then the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations and to reserve the unjust under punishment for the day of judgment.

~ 2 Peter 2:4-9 (NKJV)

~ ~ ~
Having concluded Leviticus, I pick up Psalms again. The below words of Charles Haddon Spurgeon (1834-1892) on Psalm 76:10 excel whatever I might otherwise offer, and I present him here as a "guest blogger."
~ ~ ~

"Surely the wrath of man shall praise thee." It shall not only be overcome but rendered subservient to thy glory. Man with his breath of threatening is but blowing the trumpet of the Lord's eternal fame. Furious winds often drive vessels the more swiftly into port. The devil blows the fire and melts the iron, and then the Lord fashions it for his own purposes. Let men and devils rage as they may, they cannot do otherwise than subserve the divine purposes.

"The remainder of wrath shalt thou restrain." ... Some read it "thou shalt gird," as if the Lord girded on the wrath of man as a sword to be used for his own designs, and certainly men of the world are often a sword in the hand of God, to scourge others.... Even the most rampant evil is under the control of the Lord, and will in the end be overruled for his praise.

Lord, You see how we are tormented in our righteous souls and oppressed by the filthy conduct of the wicked, who rage against You, our holy God. We trust You to set all in order in Your perfect timing. We wait upon You to raise us up.

Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

An Eye For An Eye

Then they put him in custody ... And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, "... as he has done, so shall it be done to him—fracture for fracture, eye for eye, tooth for tooth ... whoever [murders] a man shall be put to death."
~ Leviticus 24:12-13,19-21 (NKJV)

"You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.' But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also."
~ Matthew 5:38-39 (NKJV)

Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities.... If you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God's minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil.
~ Romans 13:1,4 (NKJV)

So what does the New Testament teach—allow the evil person to do as they wish or execute wrath upon them?

There is no conflict between the passages in Matthew in Romans, nor even between Old Testament and New Testament. We are not to seek vengeance on our own against those who wrong us; those in authority are charged with holding a wrongdoer accountable and executing justice—with fairness: an eye for an eye, a life for a life.

There is no conflict between accountability and forgiveness. Ideally, one who belongs to Christ is willing to support accountability while also expressing love and forgiveness; we are willing to forgo retaliation, but need not stand still and allow ourselves to be abused. To love neighbor as self treats both neighbor and self appropriately.

Father, You know well we do not behave ideally. In the power of Your Spirit we can do all You ask. Please enable us to release to authority all that is not right in our lives, all that is not right in the world. We trust You to execute perfect justice. We trust You to dispense mercy as is fitting.

Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

Those Who Come Near

Then the glory of the LORD appeared to all the people, and ... they shouted and fell on their faces.... Then Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron ... offered [wayward] fire before the LORD.... So fire went out from the LORD and devoured them ... And Moses said to Aaron, "This is what the LORD spoke, saying:
'By those who come near Me
I must be regarded as holy;
And before all the people
I must be glorified.' "
~ Leviticus 9:23-10:3 (NKJV)

Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.... Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.... To him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.
~ James 4:8,10,17 (NKJV)

We who know the amazing grace of God have a tendency to become too comfortable with Him. Assured that no sin is too great to receive forgiveness through the blood of Jesus, those who come near to the Lord's throne of grace may forget to fear Him.

Not only does the person still condemned by sin face the wrath of God, but the child of God also faces His loving discipline. If anyone dares to commit sin asserting God does not care, it would be better to stand afar off than presume to draw near and throw sin in God's face.

When I witness someone who understands the cost of God's forgiveness, and who demands to sin in willful defiance of God's Word, my soul cannot help but be deeply troubled.

Almighty and Gracious Father, we are blessed who know the grace of Your great forgiveness. Please let us keep fear in our hearts for Your holiness, and never count the blood of our salvation so cheap that we choose sin. Thank You for the love which does not allow Your children to languish in sin.

Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

Falling Into Sin

"If anyone of the common people sins unintentionally ... and realizes his guilt, or the sin which he has committed is made known to him, he shall bring for his offering a goat ... for his sin which he has committed."
~ Leviticus 4:27-28 (ESV)

Give praise to the One who is able to keep you from falling into sin. He will bring you into his heavenly glory without any fault. He will bring you there with great joy.
~ Jude 24 (NIrV)

I've put my foot in my mouth enough times to make an art of it, and well understand giving unintentional offense. I also know the hurt from a careless word or action. The real pain comes when the offense is made known and the offender expresses neither guilt nor remorse.

Falling into sin can be unintentional. It still offends God, it is still sin, it still begs repentance. Few of us relate to unintentional sin costing us a goat. What if the cost was your dog or your cat? Forfeiting laptop/cell phone/Blackberry? Suffering high blood pressure/headache/stomach distress? For what price would the cost of unintentional sin motivate one to become more careful?

Praise God that He can prevent us from falling into sin and suffering its many consequences. Praise God that His thorough sanctification enables us to joyfully enter His presence without fault.

Lord and Father, we've caused You much and great sorrow with our sin. How much more so with the sin of which we're ignorant! Thank You for Your forgiveness by the blood of Jesus. Thank You for the power from Your Holy Spirit to keep from falling into sin which grieves You.

Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, Anne Lang Bundy, all rights reserved.

The Lord Will Repay

"But God was with [Joseph] and delivered him out of all his troubles, and gave him favor and wisdom ... "
~ Acts 7:9-10 (NKJV)

And David said ... "Let him alone, and let him curse; for so the LORD has ordered him. It may be that the LORD will look on my affliction, and that the LORD will repay me with good for his cursing this day."
~ 2 Samuel 16:11-12 (NKJV)

Many are the afflictions of the righteous,
But the LORD delivers him out of them all.
~ Psalms 34:19 (NKJV)

We are facing tough times that are likely to get worse before they get better. God always uses afflictions to work good in the lives of His children, and all deliverance comes from Him, regardless of who or what it comes through.

Unscrupulous people will use hard times to take advantage of the weak, whether they are weak of body or resources. If the righteous suffer at the hands of the unrighteous, it is unfruitful to become angry or bitter. The Lord will repay both the righteous and the unrighteous in due time.

Father, You are our Protector, Provider and Deliverer. In all circumstances, You work good for those who love You. Please help us to keep our eyes and hearts on You, and to respond in all circumstances as honors and glorifies You. Help us to patiently trust in You.

Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, Anne Lang Bundy

Justice

Behold, the LORD's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save,
or his ear dull, that it cannot hear ...
Justice is turned back ...
truth has stumbled in the public squares ...
he who departs from evil makes himself a prey.
The LORD saw it, and it displeased him that there was no justice.
Isaiah 59:1,14-15 (ESV)

But brother goes to law against brother, and that before unbelievers! ... Why do you not rather accept wrong? Why do you not rather let yourselves be cheated? ~ 1 Corinthians 6:6-7 (NKJV)

If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, "Vengeance is Mine, I will repay," says the Lord.
Romans 12:18-19 (NKJV)

Should the innocent make himself prey for the wicked? Should Christians always turn the other cheek? When and how may we seek justice?

Paul clearly frowns on Christians taking one another to court, seeing it preferable to be cheated. He teaches us to live peaceably with "all men"—which includes the unpleasant, the unreasonable, and the unrepentant.

Jesus established well-defined steps in Matthew 18:15-17 for Christians to deal with sin among themselves. Those who call themselves believers but are unwilling to be accountable to the church may be treated as unbelievers.

When accountability is rightfully requested at court, we are to have absence of malice, and seek not vengeance but only the justice pleasing to God. And regardless of what happens inside or outside any human court, the Lord's hand is not shortened. He is the final Arbiter of justice, in this world and the next.

Judge of all the earth, You will surely do what is right and execute perfect justice and perfect mercy for each of us. Thank You that the blood of Jesus Christ has paid the just penalty for my sin. Please give us love of justice and mercy. Please enable us to live peaceable lives.

"When a man's ways please the LORD, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him." ~ Proverbs 16:7 (NKJV)

Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2009, Anne Lang Bundy