An American Missionary

Are all men dogs? Do we all consider women objects to be used for our own pleasure then wadded up and thrown away like used tissue paper? It sure seems that way sometimes, especially among politicians who can’t seem to get away from it, especially since they seem to get away with it. The ongoing Clinton scandal involves his travels with an accused abuser of young women, Jeff Epstein, along with Prince Andrew and others. Whether the story is accurate or not, plenty of folk will believe it because of Bill’s history. The same thing with the latest harassment claim against President Trump. 
 
Fortunately not all men are like Clinton or Trump, or the many others we could name. In fact we’ve recently read about two very strong male figures who were real men in the way they treated women – Boaz and Elkanah. That means it is possible for men to exercise self-discipline and treat women with the dignity and respect that all fellow human beings deserve. 
 
It’s likely that the majority of men are more like Boaz and Elkanah than Clinton and Trump precisely because the latter get the headlines and news attention. If it really was that common then it wouldn’t be newsworthy. That certainly was true during the days of Elkanah because while his son Samuel was serving faithfully in the temple, Hophni and Phinehas, the sons of Eli the High Priest, were making the news because of their mistreatment of women who served in The Tabernacle. 
 
As priests they used their position to abuse women. It’s bad enough for politicians to use their power to abuse women, it’s far worse when religious leaders do so. Not only were they disrespecting the women they abused they doubled their disrespect for God. First by engaging in sexual immorality, and second by doing so in the Tabernacle. 
 
This was the place where God was being worshiped and they were polluting his worship with their sin (1 Sam 2:23-29). Such conduct begins with a disregard for God. 1 Samuel 2:12 calls them “worthless men” who “did not know the Lord”, meaning they disregarded him entirely. And in the case of those two men it eventually ended with their death (1 Sam 2:30-34). God demanded pure men as priests and got putrid ones instead. Of course God knew what they were doing and they didn’t escape His judgment. 
 
Fellows, whether we make the news or not God knows our hearts so let’s keep them pure – don’t bring lust and sexual immorality into our lives, much less our worship. Don’t pollute your body, or the Lord’s body – the church.

Are all men dogs? Do we all consider women objects to be used for our own pleasure then wadded up and thrown away like used tissue paper? It sure seems that way sometimes, especially among politicians who can’t seem to get away from it, especially since they seem to get away with it. The ongoing Clinton scandal involves his travels with an accused abuser of young women, Jeff Epstein, along with Prince Andrew and others. Whether the story is accurate or not, plenty of folk will believe it because of Bill’s history. The same thing with the latest harassment claim against President Trump.

Fortunately not all men are like Clinton or Trump, or the many others we could name. In fact we’ve recently read about two very strong male figures who were real men in the way they treated women – Boaz and Elkanah. That means it is possible for men to exercise self-discipline and treat women with the dignity and respect that all fellow human beings deserve.

It’s likely that the majority of men are mor

Keep Our Hearts And Worship Pure: 1 Samuel 2:12-36

How much would you pay for a genuine Shakespeare autograph? The going price seems to be around $5,000,000 since there are only six originals known to exist. The price would be ten times that if it was attached to one of his plays. Who knows, perhaps tucked away in an old chest of papers in a London basement someone unwittingly has that $50,000,000 document. After all with the number of plays he wrote during his days in London it’s likely one got put away among other papers of the day. 
 
Unfortunately most were thrown away. Just like many of our old papers they were tossed out with the trash. Sadly there have always been throw away people too; folk considered useless or valueless to society. Two such groups are widows and prostitutes, of which there were plenty during Shakespeare’s day. Throughout time most people have been unconcerned about their plight and easily ignored them. Fortunately there was one person who was very concerned about them – God. A demand that His people protect widows was written into the Law of Moses. “You shall not afflict any widow or orphan. If you afflict him at all, and if he does cry out to Me, I will surely hear his cry; and My anger will be kindled,” (Ex 22:22-24). Do you think watching out for widows and orphans comes within the meaning of the Lord's command to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31)? 
 
Just to show that these “throw away” people were more valuable than a Shakespeare autograph look how many show up in the lineage of Jesus. Matthew lists four in his genealogy of Jesus. First there was the widow Tamar, who tricked her father-in-law Judah into making her a mother. Then there was the Jericho harlot Rahab. Third was the Moabite widow Ruth who married a descendant of Tamar and Rahab named Boaz. From that marriage came a boy named Obed, who had a son named Jesse, who had a son named David, who had a son named Solomon by an adulterous woman named Bathsheba, and he had a son named Jesus (Ruth 4:17, Matthew 1:1). 
 
Only God could write that story and his signature is a priceless treasure! How much are we willing to give for the precious word of God? It's worth everything we have and are, so hold nothing back.

How much would you pay for a genuine Shakespeare autograph? The going price seems to be around $5,000,000 since there are only six originals known to exist. The price would be ten times that if it was attached to one of his plays. Who knows, perhaps tucked away in an old chest of papers in a London basement someone unwittingly has that $50,000,000 document. After all with the number of plays he wrote during his days in London it’s likely one got put away among other papers of the day.

Unfortunately most were thrown away. Just like many of our old papers they were tossed out with the trash. Sadly there have always been throw away people too; folk considered useless or valueless to society. Two such groups are widows and prostitutes, of which there were plenty during Shakespeare’s day. Throughout time most people have been unconcerned about their plight and easily ignored them. Fortunately there was one person who was very concerned about them – God. A demand that His people protect wid

No Throwaway People: Ruth 4:17; Matthew 1:1

“What Goes Around Comes Around” is a 2006 hit song for Justin Timberlake about how betrayal was repaid by betrayal. His girl left him for another man who left her for another girl. As the song says “I heard you found out that he's doing to you what you did to me. Ain't that the way it goes.” Of course the phrase was around long before Justin made it into a hit song. And, since it‘s about how our actions come back to impact us, it’s a principle that existed long before that phrase was coined. 
 
The Bible has a different phrase for it: “You reap what you sow” (Galatians 6:7). While that applies to negative consequences, just like in Justin's song, it also includes reaping good things. Galatians made that distinction in verse 8. Usually people who do good things have it returned to them in some unexpected way. 
 
A few days ago we saw how Ruth refused to leave her mother-in-law even though they both were homeless, broke, widows (Ruth 1:15-18). While their trip to Bethlehem was only described in one sentence (Ruth 1:19) it must have been difficult and, since they were carrying all their earthly possessions, Ruth would have needed to shoulder most of the load on the road. Plus when they got home Ruth went straight to work gathering grain for their food (Ruth 2:2). 
 
For clarification she wasn't working in their own field, or for wages. Instead she was picking up grain left in the field for the poor under Mosaic Law. Anyway the land owner noticed her, asked about her, and then told her to stay in his fields and share some of his provisions. When she asked why the favor his answer was a lengthy version of “what goes around comes around”. He respected what she had done for Naomi and offered God’s blessings on her (Ruth 2:11-12). 
 
So, let's ask the important question: “What’s coming around for you and me?”

“What Goes Around Comes Around” is a 2006 hit song for Justin Timberlake about how betrayal was repaid by betrayal. His girl left him for another man who left her for another girl. As the song says “I heard you found out that he's doing to you what you did to me. Ain't that the way it goes.” Of course the phrase was around long before Justin made it into a hit song. And, since it‘s about how our actions come back to impact us, it’s a principle that existed long before that phrase was coined.

The Bible has a different phrase for it: “You reap what you sow” (Galatians 6:7). While that applies to negative consequences, just like in Justin's song, it also includes reaping good things. Galatians made that distinction in verse 8. Usually people who do good things have it returned to them in some unexpected way.

A few days ago we saw how Ruth refused to leave her mother-in-law even though they both were homeless, broke, widows (Ruth 1:15-18). While their trip to Bethlehem was only described

What Goes Around Comes Around: Ruth 2:11-12

“You didn't hold your mouth just so, and that’s why it didn't open.” “You have to tilt your head to the left and make a face to lift it.” Jokingly we pretend that the expression on our face, the one we often make when exerting force to open or move something, is the active cause of the lid opening or the couch moving, rather than the pressure of our hands or the leverage of our legs and back. We know there's no connection so we make the joke. 
 
It’s not funny when we begin to think that way about some of our traditional church activities. Throughout time God’s people have taken His specific instructions, found acceptable means to accomplish the authorized task, and then bound that specific means of accomplishment on others. 
 
For example the Jews of Jesus’ day took the OT instructions to bind the law to their hands and forehead recorded in Deuteronomy 6:6-9 so literally that they tied scrolls with Bible passages to their hands and foreheads. This became a symbol of obedience for everyone who thought himself a true servant of God. Those who wore the scrolls judged everyone who didn't as unfaithful, despite their own complete failure to believe and obey the words written on those scrolls. It had become such a farce that Jesus rebuked them for their hypocrisy in Matthew 23:5. 
 
Think carefully about some of the things that are merely means of accomplishing God’s requirements that we've turned into requirements. The saints met on the first day of the week, Acts 17:20; 1 Corinthians 16:1-2. We've been meeting twice on Sundays for as long as we can remember. So we bind those two services and wear them as our badge of honor, and woe be to any church that has only one Sunday assembly. Why? We know one Sunday service is perfectly scriptural, but we have two, so if you don't something must be wrong with you. There may, or may not, be a problem with your reason for choosing to have just one Sunday service, but there's certainly something wrong with me binding my tradition of two services on you. 
 
Now this isn't a call for one Sunday service, I happen to like two. It's just some thoughts for your consideration on today's Morning Minutes in the Bible on Traditional Tuesday.

“You didn't hold your mouth just so, and that’s why it didn't open.” “You have to tilt your head to the left and make a face to lift it.” Jokingly we pretend that the expression on our face, the one we often make when exerting force to open or move something, is the active cause of the lid opening or the couch moving, rather than the pressure of our hands or the leverage of our legs and back. We know there's no connection so we make the joke.

It’s not funny when we begin to think that way about some of our traditional church activities. Throughout time God’s people have taken His specific instructions, found acceptable means to accomplish the authorized task, and then bound that specific means of accomplishment on others.

For example the Jews of Jesus’ day took the OT instructions to bind the law to their hands and forehead recorded in Deuteronomy 6:6-9 so literally that they tied scrolls with Bible passages to their hands and foreheads. This became a symbol of obedience for everyone

Binding Our Traditions – Literally: Deuteronomy 6:6-9; Matthew 23:5

“He looks like he was weaned on a sour pickle.” “She must have been sucking on a lemon.” We all know people like that, don’t we? Folk who carry a grudge against life and are so bitter that being around them gives us the flavor of sour pickles or lemons. And, some of the most bitter are people who don't appear to have that many problems. On the other hand we all know people who seem to have gotten a rotten deal in life, had many things go wrong, many hurdles in their path, and yet press on with a smile and joyful heart. 
 
When we look at Naomi in the book of Ruth we see someone who had a lot of pain in her life. First she had to leave her home because of a famine. Then her husband died, and shortly after that her two sons as well. That left her a widow indeed, a woman with no means of support living in a land that was not her home. So it is not surprising to read that she returned home to Bethlehem with a lot of bitterness. So much so that she insisted on changing her name from Naomi, which means pleasant, to Mara, which means bitter, and blamed God for treating her so bitterly (Ruth 1:20-21). Little did she know the great glory God had planned for her, and when it came in the form of a grandson through Ruth and Boaz she embraced the new found blessing with joy (Ruth 4:16-17). 
 
What about us? Do we approach life with a sour lemon look or with a smile on our face and joy in our heart? Everyone has heartache and pain, some more than others, and a PMA (positive mental attitude) won’t make it go away. However, we have the ability to choose whether or not we’ll let the pain poison us in bitterness or push us into the arms of Jesus. And, since this is Sensual Service Saturday, let's ask one last question. How do we approach worship? Do we drag in as if church is the last place we want to be? Do we think or say, “Do I have to go to church today?” Or do we skip in with a cheerful smile filled with exuberant joy? Let go of the bitterness and choose joy, and be sure to spread it all around with a spirit of generosity. After all isn’t that what Jesus did for us on the cross?

“He looks like he was weaned on a sour pickle.” “She must have been sucking on a lemon.” We all know people like that, don’t we? Folk who carry a grudge against life and are so bitter that being around them gives us the flavor of sour pickles or lemons. And, some of the most bitter are people who don't appear to have that many problems. On the other hand we all know people who seem to have gotten a rotten deal in life, had many things go wrong, many hurdles in their path, and yet press on with a smile and joyful heart.

When we look at Naomi in the book of Ruth we see someone who had a lot of pain in her life. First she had to leave her home because of a famine. Then her husband died, and shortly after that her two sons as well. That left her a widow indeed, a woman with no means of support living in a land that was not her home. So it is not surprising to read that she returned home to Bethlehem with a lot of bitterness. So much so that she insisted on changing her name from Naomi, wh

From Bitterness To Joy: Ruth 1:20-21 & 4:16-17

"Money, it's a crime. Share it fairly, but don't take a slice of my pie." The song "Money" by Pink Floyd starts out with the sound of coins clinking as a lead in to the song that's a semi cynical look at money. Lines like "Money, it's a gas. Grab that cash with both hands and make a stash" and "Money, get back, I'm all right Jack keep your hands off of my stack" primarily highlight the selfish uses of money, but also look at the efforts to acquire it. It even refers to the passage about money being the root of evil in 1 Timothy 6:10. 
 
When it comes to churches and money It really is a crime how so many have turned from serving God to raising money. Many will do so with no concern for God or man. They'll do just about anything to get a "stash" or "stack" without any concern about God's instructions on the subject. So today's Morning Minutes in the Bible on Traditional Tuesday is going to look at the collection methods found in the NT. 
 
The first noted method of contribution in the NT, other than generically sharing as all had need (Acts 2:44-45), was by members bringing their money to the Apostles (Acts 4:35-37). The text makes it clear that those were free will contributions, but more about that in a later video. 
 
The next specific example was because of a famine in Judea and the Christians in Antioch of Syria took up a collection according to each person's ability and sent relief for the poor Christians in Judea. There it was delivered to the elders of the church (Acts 11:27-30). The details of how it was collected weren't revealed, but it was clearly collected into a common treasury. 
 
We also know that the church in Philippi created a treasury and sent funds from it to Paul, not once, but several times. Read Philippians 4:10-19 very carefully. 
 
The last example of a specific collection method was Paul's instruction to the church in Corinth to "put aside and save," or to be more precise in the Greek language, “treasuring up”, on Sunday (1 Corinthians 16:1-2). Yes it is literally treasury in Greek. Paul was instructing them, and other churches, to have individuals make free will contributions to be collected in a common treasury when they met on the first day of the week so there wouldn't have to be a collection when he came. Whether they passed a plate, as most churches do today, or set out a box is not stated so either way works. 
 
Don't make collecting money and creating a church treasury a crime, but don't forget His church isn't a fund raising organization either.

"Money, it's a crime. Share it fairly, but don't take a slice of my pie." The song "Money" by Pink Floyd starts out with the sound of coins clinking as a lead in to the song that's a semi cynical look at money. Lines like "Money, it's a gas. Grab that cash with both hands and make a stash" and "Money, get back, I'm all right Jack keep your hands off of my stack" primarily highlight the selfish uses of money, but also look at the efforts to acquire it. It even refers to the passage about money being the root of evil in 1 Timothy 6:10.

When it comes to churches and money It really is a crime how so many have turned from serving God to raising money. Many will do so with no concern for God or man. They'll do just about anything to get a "stash" or "stack" without any concern about God's instructions on the subject. So today's Morning Minutes in the Bible on Traditional Tuesday is going to look at the collection methods found in the NT.

The first noted method of contribution in the NT, o

The Church Treasury: 1 Corinthians 16:1-2

"Why should I keep my word?” spoke Thorin Oakenshield while in the thrall of dragon fever. In the movie “The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies” Thorin lost his mind for a while because of the taint of evil surrounding the gold treasure that became his after the dragon was killed. When the villagers and elves arrived to claim what he had promised them for their help he went back on his word and refused to give them their share. His honor was lost to the seductive power of the wealth under his control. 
 
How many of us always keep our word? That’s part of what makes the account of Jephthah’s vow so difficult to deal with – he was going to keep it. In Judges 11:30-31 he made an oath to God to sacrifice the first thing that came out his door when returning home - if God would grant him victory over the Ammonites. To his horror it was a person - his only daughter (Judges 11:34-35). Yet, even as he cried in dismay there was no hint of breaking his word; “for I have given my word to the Lord, and I cannot take it back.” 
 
Today we have such a cavalier attitude about the truth and our promises that we’re offended that he would even consider keeping his promise and even more that he actually went through with it. At least Thorin had the excuse of dragon fever clouding his mind and keeping him from thinking clearly. What’s ours? We have no excuse whatsoever. Seriously, we may be offended by Thorin’s actions, but let's be honest with ourselves we do the same thing for far less. And, whatever we may think about Jephthah’s vow, we have to acknowledge that on top of his bravery in battle he was committed to keeping his word. Both put us to shame. No matter how much it pained him he wouldn't go back on his oath. 
 
The lesson for all of us is first to develop the wisdom to be careful with our promises and commitments, and second, to build the strength of character to keep them.

"Why should I keep my word?” spoke Thorin Oakenshield while in the thrall of dragon fever. In the movie “The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies” Thorin lost his mind for a while because of the taint of evil surrounding the gold treasure that became his after the dragon was killed. When the villagers and elves arrived to claim what he had promised them for their help he went back on his word and refused to give them their share. His honor was lost to the seductive power of the wealth under his control.

How many of us always keep our word? That’s part of what makes the account of Jephthah’s vow so difficult to deal with – he was going to keep it. In Judges 11:30-31 he made an oath to God to sacrifice the first thing that came out his door when returning home - if God would grant him victory over the Ammonites. To his horror it was a person - his only daughter (Judges 11:34-35). Yet, even as he cried in dismay there was no hint of breaking his word; “for I have given my word to the Lo

Let’s Keep Our Word – It’s The Right Thing To Do: Judges 11:30-40

While I'm a fan of robust discussions I prefer to stay out of the fray, particularly on Facebook. Rather than participate in the debates, even those on Bible topics, I typically read and analyze the discussions because the way people think is fascinating. It’s particularly interesting to see how that’s revealed as others write out their thoughts to make their case. Agree or disagree there is always something to learn from how people say what they think. 
 
Another reason I stay out of the online debates is that too often they turn into unpleasant arguments to no real benefit, especially when people begin calling names. Even if it doesn't go there many arguments aren't about genuine doctrinal differences, but about wanting everyone to say the same thing the same way. In other words, too many online debates are not about true differences of fundamental belief; rather we end up saying, in effect, “I wouldn't say it that way,” because we’re really just saying the same things in different words. The real problems arise when that becomes, “You can’t say it that way” because “We've always said it this way.” 
 
Fortunately Facebook facedowns aren't usually a matter of life or death - we just think they are. There was, however, an occasion in the OT when not saying “it” the right way was a matter of life or death. After Jephthah defeated the Ammonites a rival Israelite tribe (Ephraim) picked a fight because they felt slighted. They should have stayed out of the fray because it didn't go well. Thousands lost their lives because they couldn't pronounce “shibboleth” with the “shh” sound. Instead they were exposed because they said “sibboleth” (Judges 12:1-6). If an Ephraimite wanted to live he needed to heed the warning, “I wouldn't say it that way.” 
 
The next time we want to challenge someone for what they wrote let’s make sure it’s about truth and not about our preferred (or traditional) wording. Lives may not be at stake, but our souls might. Because the real truth is our pride gets in the way of obedience to God's revealed truth that condemns fighting and wrangling over words (2 Timothy 2:14).

While I'm a fan of robust discussions I prefer to stay out of the fray, particularly on Facebook. Rather than participate in the debates, even those on Bible topics, I typically read and analyze the discussions because the way people think is fascinating. It’s particularly interesting to see how that’s revealed as others write out their thoughts to make their case. Agree or disagree there is always something to learn from how people say what they think. 

Another reason I stay out of the online debates is that too often they turn into unpleasant arguments to no real benefit, especially when people begin calling names. Even if it doesn't go there many arguments aren't about genuine doctrinal differences, but about wanting everyone to say the same thing the same way. In other words, too many online debates are not about true differences of fundamental belief; rather we end up saying, in effect, “I wouldn't say it that way,” because we’re really just saying the same things in different wo

“I wouldn't say it that way.” Judges 12:1-6y

“A Boy Named Sue” is an old country song by Johnny Cash that tells the story of a boy who grew up having to fight his way through life because of his name. His father had named him Sue and then left the family. As the boy grew, and fought, he became determined to find his dad and get revenge for having to fight all his life. One day he found him and they commenced to fighting. Well, his old dad was tough and mean and put up a good fight, but finally Sue got the upper hand. When the dad knew that he had lost he explained to his son why he had given him that awful name. Knowing he wasn't going to hang around to teach the boy how to be a man he gave him that name knowing he would have to fight and become tough. His reasoning was seemingly justified by having been bested in a hard fought brawl. 
 
Believe it or not there’s a Bible story that’s similar to that idea, or at least had a similar ending. Two days ago we began looking at the account of Jephthah, Gilead’s illegitimate son, who was run out of town by his brothers. One thing we didn't spend any time on was his initial description: “Now Jephthah the Gileadite was a mighty man of valor” (Judges 11:1). After that the text adds “but he was the son of a harlot” and verse 2 reveals his broken relationship with his brothers and home town and social status as an exiled outcast, which could lead to the conclusion that the social status produced the man – a genuine “Boy Named Sue”. 
 
Now does that mean we men should abandon our children to fend for themselves so they will become real men? Absolutely not, it destroys the boys and the society that tolerates it. Just look around at the all too obvious cultural decay that is the direct result of too many among us having abandoned their boys. The result is absolute devastation to the boys, their moms, and their siblings, and to society as a whole. 
 
Instead let’s be real men who stick around and show them how to live a life of love and support. Ephesian 5:25-33 tells the husband how to love his wife. Chapter 6:1-4 follows by telling him how to love his sons (and daughters) by raising them to respect their parents – and God. That kind of manliness, which is the only real kind, requires us to commit ourselves to serving our wife and children. Oh, and like the song says at the end, “name him Bill or George anything but Sue.”

“A Boy Named Sue” is an old country song by Johnny Cash that tells the story of a boy who grew up having to fight his way through life because of his name. His father had named him Sue and then left the family. As the boy grew, and fought, he became determined to find his dad and get revenge for having to fight all his life. One day he found him and they commenced to fighting. Well, his old dad was tough and mean and put up a good fight, but finally Sue got the upper hand. When the dad knew that he had lost he explained to his son why he had given him that awful name. Knowing he wasn't going to hang around to teach the boy how to be a man he gave him that name knowing he would have to fight and become tough. His reasoning was seemingly justified by having been bested in a hard fought brawl.

Believe it or not there’s a Bible story that’s similar to that idea, or at least had a similar ending. Two days ago we began looking at the account of Jephthah, Gilead’s illegitimate son, who was r

A Boy Named Jephthah: Judges 11:1-3

“Speak softly so you don’t choke” is good advice to go with the centuries old proverbial warning about having to “eat your words.” It's also one most, if not all of us have ignored to our shame and embarrassment. Probably every single one of us has made bold declarations about what we would or wouldn't do only to fail glaringly. How we handle our failure (or failures) is an indicator of the strength of our character. We should choke them down even when they're tough, but sometimes the boldness of our initial declaration leaves us feeling backed into a corner with no way out but to fight. That’s just foolish pride. An angry excuse laden defense of our indefensible conduct proclaims a weak prideful heart while admission and submission to the humiliation indicates a strong humble heart. 
 
During the period of the Judges the sons of Gilead had made a bold declaration about an illegitimate brother named Jephthah. It appears he was the firstborn son, but his mother was a harlot. So when the legitimate sons grew up they joined together and drove him away from the family. They ran him out of town boldly declaring; “You will not inherit in our father’s house. You’re the son of another woman.” (Judges 11:1-2). They told him didn’t they? Sometime later they were served a heaping plate of their own words to eat. The city was under threat of war by the Ammonites and to whom did they turn for leadership – Jephthah (Judges 11:4-11) 
 
Perhaps some of those brothers were in the delegation that asked him for help. That might explain the sharpness of his answer (Judges 11:7). However they may have felt about him personally they knew they needed him because he had grown up on his own and had become a fighter and a battle leader (Judges 11:3). So they swallowed their pride, and their words, and choked out an admission that they needed him to lead in battle and agreed to serve him (Judges 11:8-11). 
 
When it comes to serving God who among us needs to swallow our prideful words and ask God to forgive and lead us? Simple – all of us. In other words, anyone who wants to be a Christian! Do you want to know where to start? It begins with repentance and baptism. And please don't say “I don't have to be baptized, I'm already saved.” It would be awful to choke on those words of rebellion at judgment.

“Speak softly so you don’t choke” is good advice to go with the centuries old proverbial warning about having to “eat your words.” It's also one most, if not all of us have ignored to our shame and embarrassment. Probably every single one of us has made bold declarations about what we would or wouldn't do only to fail glaringly. How we handle our failure (or failures) is an indicator of the strength of our character. We should choke them down even when they're tough, but sometimes the boldness of our initial declaration leaves us feeling backed into a corner with no way out but to fight. That’s just foolish pride. An angry excuse laden defense of our indefensible conduct proclaims a weak prideful heart while admission and submission to the humiliation indicates a strong humble heart.

During the period of the Judges the sons of Gilead had made a bold declaration about an illegitimate brother named Jephthah. It appears he was the firstborn son, but his mother was a harlot. So when the l

Words We Choke On: Judges 11:1-11

You made your own bed, now you have to lie in it." Most of us have heard that expression at some time or other, and in some form or fashion. Usually after we messed up and then complained about the consequences, because consequences can be cruel teachers. We heard it when we complain about uncomfortable results because of decisions that were obviously bad, or made against specific advice; times when we should have, or actually did, know better, and needed to learn to accept the consequences of our own choices. 
 
After Abimelech’s short reign Israel obeyed God under a couple of other judges, Tola and Jair (Judges 10:1-5), but eventually they made their own bed by choosing to serve idols – again (Judges 10:6). It’s always that way when we sin – we think we’re free, doing our own thing, dancing to the beat of our own drum. What we don’t realize is that we’re enslaved by the same passions and pride as everyone else. We’re not unique and creative when it comes to sin, we’re just following a different crowd. 
 
Usually when they got into trouble Israel would call on God and he would rescue them, but this time was different. When they called on God for help His answer was blunt – “cry to your new gods…let them save you” (Judges 10:11-14). Realizing the futility of that option they repented, put away the idols, and returned to God (Judges 10:15-16). Their repentance was genuine because they returned to God with no promise of deliverance – and He forgave them. They realized that serving God wasn’t a market exchange. Handing over the cash of faith and obedience to purchase divine rescue doesn't work. Serving God for his sake is a choice to trust and obey him no matter what. 
 
God is waiting for us to do that today. He's waiting for us to trust and obey, to come to Him on His terms and He will forgive and cure our biggest problem – sin. Faith, repentance, and baptism are necessary before salvation is given. Not because he owes us anything, but because he is willing to save those of us who want to serve him. He will save you, if you will serve him. That's his demand, and your decision. Will you come to him or call on your idols?

You made your own bed, now you have to lie in it." Most of us have heard that expression at some time or other, and in some form ...

Trust And Obey No Matter What: Judges 10:1-16

Politicians and scandals go together like peas and carrots as Forrest said of himself and Jenny in the movie “Forrest Gump”. The only thing as common as politicians embroiled in scandal could be religious leaders embroiled in scandal. Hardly any TV show or movie today portrays a preacher as a genuinely positive uplifting faithful man. They’re generally portrayed as cold and harsh, or faithless hypocrites, or sexual predators using their positions to prey on the weak. Even the best only has to make one mistake and his reputation can be ruined forever. 
 
Gideon the reluctant warrior is one of those who made a huge mistake that ruined his reputation and overshadowed his faith. Most people today know about his faith, while few know about his mistake that became a scandal to his house. However, the nation in his day knew, and most importantly God knew. 
 
The scandal recorded in Judges 8:24-27 arose out his power and authority from the phenomenal victory over Midian and his refusal to accept their offer to become king. Instead he asked for a small gift offering, a tax if you will. It was an earring from each person taken from the enemy they had defeated. The people were happy to do so, and it turned out to be a huge amount of gold, about 70 lbs. At today's price that's about $2,250,000. 
 
That wasn't his mistake though. It's what he did next that became a scandal (Judges 8:27). He made an ephod like the priestly garment used in worshiping Yahweh. No matter what he intended it was directly in conflict with God's revealed way of worship, which alone was enough to make it wrong. But the sin was compounded by how it became an idol that led people away from God. 
 
The same principle applies to us today. Creating our own way of worship is a scandal. God revealed a pattern of worship in the Bible. But, just like Gideon we constantly create our own ways of worship that not only conflict with God's will, but become a trap or scandal for others who choose to worship God their way instead of His way. We should follow his pattern instead of our own to avoid the scandal of self-determined worship that rebels against God.

Politicians and scandals go together like peas and carrots as Forrest said of himself and Jenny in the movie “Forrest Gump”. The only thing as common as politicians embroiled in scandal could be religious leaders embroiled in scandal. Hardly any TV show or movie today portrays a preacher as a genuinely positive uplifting faithful man. They’re generally portrayed as cold and harsh, or faithless hypocrites, or sexual predators using their positions to prey on the weak. Even the best only has to make one mistake and his reputation can be ruined forever.

Gideon the reluctant warrior is one of those who made a huge mistake that ruined his reputation and overshadowed his faith. Most people today know about his faith, while few know about his mistake that became a scandal to his house. However, the nation in his day knew, and most importantly God knew.

The scandal recorded in Judges 8:24-27 arose out his power and authority from the phenomenal victory over Midian and his refusal to accept t

Godly Worship Or Self-Worship? Judges 8:27

“Some legends are told 
Some turn to dust or to gold 
But you will remember me 
Remember me for centuries" 
 
The song “Centuries” by Fall Out Boy is a pleasant song, though the phrase “REMEMBER ME” is a bit redundant. The appeal of the song, beyond the sound, is it’s recognition of the never ending pursuit of immortality. In our world today the pressure to be known and remembered, even if it’s for a mistake, or for doing something disgusting in front of a camera is amplified by social media. The chorus quoted above, with its heavy emphasis on the repetition of “REMEMBER ME”, captures that pursuit quite well. 
 
The desire to be remembered isn’t new and there’s Biblical precedent for this mindset that was demonstrated in perhaps one of the oddest incidents in the Bible. After Gideon’s death an illegitimate son, the truly evil Abimelech, murdered all his other sons and was declared king in Shechem. Just three years later Shechem rebelled under the leadership of another evil man, but they all ended up dead when Abimelech set their refuge on fire. 
 
Unfortunately murder and deceit is all too common so that’s not enough to make us “remember” him, but how he died is memorable. Apparently his greed and blood lust were insatiable so Abimelech attacked a nearby town and, like Shechem, the people took refuge in a tower. However, when Abimelech approached the base of the tower a smart lady dropped a rock on his head. It didn’t immediately kill him so he had his assistant stab him to death so he wouldn’t be remembered for being killed by a woman (Judges 9:50-54). 
 
The song may not be remembered in a year, but Abimelech’s death has gone down in history and will be remembered for centuries. What will we be remembered for? Serving God I hope.

“Some legends are told
Some turn to dust or to gold
But you will remember me
Remember me for centuries"

The song “Centuries” by Fall Out Boy is a pleasant song, though the phrase “REMEMBER ME” is a bit redundant. The appeal of the song, beyond the sound, is it’s recognition of the never ending pursuit of immortality. In our world today the pressure to be known and remembered, even if it’s for a mistake, or for doing something disgusting in front of a camera is amplified by social media. The chorus quoted above, with its heavy emphasis on the repetition of “REMEMBER ME”, captures that pursuit quite well.

The desire to be remembered isn’t new and there’s Biblical precedent for this mindset that was demonstrated in perhaps one of the oddest incidents in the Bible. After Gideon’s death an illegitimate son, the truly evil Abimelech, murdered all his other sons and was declared king in Shechem. Just three years later Shechem rebelled under the leadership of another evil man, but they all e

Will You Be Remembered For Serving God? Judges 9:50-54

"I will not accept if nominated and will not serve if elected." With that short statement General William T. Sherman cut off all discussion of his standing for election as U.S. president in 1884. America has a history of electing war heroes to that office, beginning with George Washington and including Sherman’s boss Ulysses S. Grant. Famous for his march across the South that helped end the Civil War, Sherman had no intention of following the path to more power and prestige, and was clear and unequivocal in his declaration. A habit we would like to see today’s political leaders develop. 
 
America isn't the first country to place war leaders in positions of power. In fact the history of the world is dominated by that practice. Most famous, and not so famous, rulers came to power as military leaders; primarily because of the need to defend their people against attackers, but sometimes to conquer. Most Roman rulers, including Julius Caesar, earned their power risking their lives in battle. After surviving so many battles Caesar must have been shocked when he was murdered by a bunch of politicians in a meeting. 
 
The Biblical book of Judges is filled with accounts of Israelites rising up to defeat and drive off oppressing nations and becoming the leader of Israel for the rest of his life. One glaring exception was Gideon. A reluctant warrior, visions of glory were not dancing in his head. God had to persuade him to lead and as soon as it was over he rejected their call to rule with a Shermanesque statement. “I will not rule over you, neither will my son rule over you: Jehovah will rule over you” (Jud 8:23). Gideon was never in it for his own power and glorification; complying with and relying on God instead. Perhaps we should call Sherman’s statement a Gideonesque statement!

"I will not accept if nominated and will not serve if elected." With that short statement General William T. Sherman cut off all discussion of his standing for election as U.S. president in 1884. America has a history of electing war heroes to that office, beginning with George Washington and including Sherman’s boss Ulysses S. Grant. Famous for his march across the South that helped end the Civil War, Sherman had no intention of following the path to more power and prestige, and was clear and unequivocal in his declaration. A habit we would like to see today’s political leaders develop.

America isn't the first country to place war leaders in positions of power. In fact the history of the world is dominated by that practice. Most famous, and not so famous, rulers came to power as military leaders; primarily because of the need to defend their people against attackers, but sometimes to conquer. Most Roman rulers, including Julius Caesar, earned their power risking their lives in battle

Gideon Refused To Rule: Judges 8:23

Why do some people always have to complain? No matter what they get or how well things are going in their lives they're always griping about something. Such thinking grows out of an inner selfishness where everything revolves around the self. Here in the U.S. it's fueled by an aggressive consumerism that tells us we should be able to have anything we want, whenever we want. 
 
But we don’t have to live in a consumer society like America to be plagued by the type of selfishness that leads to constant complaining. In the days of Gideon Israel was barely surviving on the little they could hide from Midian. So it would seem they all would be ecstatic at his success in overthrowing the oppressors. 
 
But, as the battle unfolded, Gideon called for the tribe of Ephraim to block the Jordan River so the enemy army couldn’t escape. They caught the two enemy leaders, but griped about being called in so late (Judges 8:1). Gideon was barely able to appease them by reminding them of the greatness of what they had done (8:2-3). In other words, “Look at what you have instead of what you don’t.” 
 
Later, Gideon ran into the opposite version of selfishness at two Israelite cities. As they pursued the remainder of the army they were hungry and, passing these two cities, asked for food. But both cities mocked and turned them down, apparently out of fear that Gideon may lose and Midian’s army might take away what they had (8:4-9). They were too focused on what they had and complained about being asked to give some of it away. 
 
Where are we on the scale of selfishness? Do we complain about the stuff we don’t have because we think we deserve more? Or, do we complain about being asked to share any of our stuff with others? Let's reject both sides of that selfishness and thank God for everything we do have and be willing to happily “let it go” and share with others.

Why do some people always have to complain? No matter what they get or how well things are going in their lives they're always griping about something. Such thinking grows out of an inner selfishness where everything revolves around the self. Here in the U.S. it's fueled by an aggressive consumerism that tells us we should be able to have anything we want, whenever we want. 

But we don’t have to live in a consumer society like America to be plagued by the type of selfishness that leads to constant complaining. In the days of Gideon Israel was barely surviving on the little they could hide from Midian. So it would seem they all would be ecstatic at his success in overthrowing the oppressors.

But, as the battle unfolded, Gideon called for the tribe of Ephraim to block the Jordan River so the enemy army couldn’t escape. They caught the two enemy leaders, but griped about being called in so late (Judges 8:1). Gideon was barely able to appease them by reminding them of the greatness of wh

Selfishness Always Complains: Judges 8:1-9

“300” is an extremely graphic historical fantasy movie released in 2007 depicting the battle of Thermopylae fought in 480 BC. Sadly today’s audiences expect the sex and graphic battle scenes instead of the story, which was truly heroic and history changing. The Spartans, who stood in the face of an overwhelming Persian force, didn't stop the invasion (they all died) but their heroic stand slowed it down and provided a rallying cry for the rest of Greece to rise up and defeat Persia a year later. Their stand was crucial in preventing the fall of Greece into the darkness of a Persian occupation and fulfilling God’s plan to use Greece to take down the Persians 150 years later. 
 
That wasn't the first time God used 300 soldiers for His purpose and glory. We've been looking at Gideon the reluctant warrior and on Monday saw that God reduced his army to 300 before letting him attack the Midianite army. Like the Persians invading Greece the opposing army invading Israel was, “like locust for multitude; and their camels without number” (Judges 7:12). Unlike the Greek battle this one led to immediate victory in one decisive attack, and this 300 survived. 
 
Besides their survival there was a significant difference between Gideon’s 300 and the Spartan 300 – God. The Spartans were Greek pagans and, while I believe God used them for His purpose in that battle, they relied on their superior training and tactics instead of Jehovah and they died. With Gideon’s 300 it was simple trust in God that won by His unconventional tactic. They surrounded the army and made so much noise the Midianite army fled in fear and confusion (Judges 7:21-22). 
 
How many of us face seemingly insurmountable difficulties? God is the difference for believers. We need to be like the 300 and trust God to see us through to victory in Jesus.

“300” is an extremely graphic historical fantasy movie released in 2007 depicting the battle of Thermopylae fought in 480 BC. Sadly today’s audiences expect the sex and graphic battle scenes instead of the story, which was truly heroic and history changing. The Spartans, who stood in the face of an overwhelming Persian force, didn't stop the invasion (they all died) but their heroic stand slowed it down and provided a rallying cry for the rest of Greece to rise up and defeat Persia a year later. Their stand was crucial in preventing the fall of Greece into the darkness of a Persian occupation and fulfilling God’s plan to use Greece to take down the Persians 150 years later.

That wasn't the first time God used 300 soldiers for His purpose and glory. We've been looking at Gideon the reluctant warrior and on Monday saw that God reduced his army to 300 before letting him attack the Midianite army. Like the Persians invading Greece the opposing army invading Israel was, “like locust for mu

Trust God Like Gideon’s 300: Judges 7:21-22

“Let it go, let it go. Can't hold it back anymore.” Having lived so long in hiding with such tight control over her power Elsa’s song was an emotional burst of relief as she finally "let it go". Feeling herself freed from the constraints by her distance from the city she unleashed her strength high in the mountain. Besides being an immensely popular movie, song and character it was a beautiful portrayal of the pain of loss and fear that traps far too many people in chains of their own making; though sometimes those chains are started by others (such as her parents in the movie). 
 
Gideon, the reluctant warrior, needed to “let it go” because he was living in chains of his own making due to his lack of trust in God. Of course those chains were started by his parents and others who had rejected God for Baal worship and become oppressed by the Midianites. So when God told him it was time to “let it go” it shouldn't surprise us that his sense of fear kept holding him back. First he had to see the angel’s miracle (Judges 6:21), then he needed to see the miracle of the fleece (Judges 6:36-40) and before he could “let it go” and lead the 300 against the Midianite host he needed one more reassurance. 
 
Previously God’s grace was shown by His gentle response to Gideon’s distrust, but God proposed the third test to Gideon because he needed further proof that victory was imminent. He had Gideon sneak down into the Midian camp and hear a soldier talking about God giving them into Gideon’s hand (Judges 7:9-14). After hearing that Gideon was prepared to “let it go” and follow God’s command (Judges 7:15). How many of us need to let go of the fear that binds us and serve God with our whole heart?

“Let it go, let it go. Can't hold it back anymore.” Having lived so long in hiding with such tight control over her power Elsa’s song was an emotional burst of relief as she finally "let it go". Feeling herself freed from the constraints by her distance from the city she unleashed her strength high in the mountain. Besides being an immensely popular movie, song and character it was a beautiful portrayal of the pain of loss and fear that traps far too many people in chains of their own making; though sometimes those chains are started by others (such as her parents in the movie).

Gideon, the reluctant warrior, needed to “let it go” because he was living in chains of his own making due to his lack of trust in God. Of course those chains were started by his parents and others who had rejected God for Baal worship and become oppressed by the Midianites. So when God told him it was time to “let it go” it shouldn't surprise us that his sense of fear kept holding him back. First he had to se

Letting Go Of Fear Like Gideon: Judges 7:9-15

Trust is like a beautiful butterfly: born in transformative struggle it is strong yet fragile requiring careful handling at all times. But, once earned, carefully handled trust can produce beautiful things. 
 
The life of Gideon the reluctant warrior is a great example. At first he was vocally distrustful of God when an angel came with a divine message, but after confirmation Gideon trusted God enough to break down the village idol. God protected Gideon from the wrath of his village so the trust was strengthened. It was needed because God had even greater risk planned for Gideon that would require even greater trust. 
 
Once Gideon was convinced the instruction was from God he was ready to lead the army into battle as ordered (Judges 7:1). However, God had a test for Gideon that would stretch the limits of his faith in the fight against the enemy army described as being like the sand on the seashore (7:12). God wanted to reduce the army so it was clear the victory was from Him rather than them. First He had Gideon dismiss the frightened (7:3) then by an arbitrary drinking test reduced the army to just 300 men (7:4-6). Because Gideon had come to trust God he believed His promise to give him victory with just those 300 (7:7-8). 
 
Victory in God doesn't require an army just a butterfly’s worth of trust. Do you have that kind of trust?

Trust is like a beautiful butterfly: born in transformative struggle it is strong yet fragile requiring careful handling at all times. But, once earned, carefully handled trust can produce beautiful things. 

The life of Gideon the reluctant warrior is a great example. At first he was vocally distrustful of God when an angel came with a divine message, but after confirmation Gideon trusted God enough to break down the village idol. God protected Gideon from the wrath of his village so the trust was strengthened. It was needed because God had even greater risk planned for Gideon that would require even greater trust.

Once Gideon was convinced the instruction was from God he was ready to lead the army into battle as ordered (Judges 7:1). However, God had a test for Gideon that would stretch the limits of his faith in the fight against the enemy army described as being like the sand on the seashore (7:12). God wanted to reduce the army so it was clear the victory was from Him rather than

Trust Is Like A Butterfly: Judges 7:1-8

Have you ever tried a Gideon’s fleece test for God whenever you needed to make a big decision? For instance if you’re facing a life altering decision such as a job change, or a move, or a marriage, did you ask God for some sign to confirm you were making the right decision? 
 
The concept is based on the two tests Gideon devised to determine if God had really called him to save Israel. For the first test he left some wool outside overnight and asked God to leave the ground dry but let the fleece absorb the moisture of the dew, and God did (Judges 6:36-38). But Gideon still wasn't sure so he reversed it for a second test. The next morning the fleece was completely dry, but the ground was covered in dew (Judges 6:39-40). 
 
Just three observations about the problem of trying to replicate Gideon’s fleece test. The first is that all of us lack the most important ingredient for such a test – direct communication from God. The second problem is that we’re misled by the Augustinian/Calvinist pagan concept of a god who has sovereignly willed every detail of our lives, but requires us to find some way to determine if our choices “line up with His perfect plan”. Third, it crosses into pure subjective choice on our part that allows us to blame God for our bad decisions. 
 
All of those add up to a rejection of God! If we want to know God’s will it’s in the Bible not in our made up subjective Gideon’s fleece tests.

Have you ever tried a Gideon’s fleece test for God whenever you needed to make a big decision? For instance if you’re facing a life altering decision such as a job change, or a move, or a marriage, did you ask God for some sign to confirm you were making the right decision?

The concept is based on the two tests Gideon devised to determine if God had really called him to save Israel. For the first test he left some wool outside overnight and asked God to leave the ground dry but let the fleece absorb the moisture of the dew, and God did (Judges 6:36-38). But Gideon still wasn't sure so he reversed it for a second test. The next morning the fleece was completely dry, but the ground was covered in dew (Judges 6:39-40).

Just three observations about the problem of trying to replicate Gideon’s fleece test. The first is that all of us lack the most important ingredient for such a test – direct communication from God. The second problem is that we’re misled by the Augustinian/Calvinist paga

Gideon’s Fleece Tests: Judges 6:36-40

“We didn't start the fire” is a 1989 song by Billy Joel that sprang out of argument over who had a harder childhood; 40 year old Joel or his 21 year old friend. They both made the same mistake that almost everyone makes. They thought history started when they were born. Joel turned the argument into a list of headlines about the challenges he faced growing up. Besides being a simplistic expression of his (and our own) narcissism it wasn’t a very good song and spawned many funny parodies. Joel, and his friend, were foolish to think that their lives were harder than others, or that events during their lifetimes were like a fire burning down their world. We would do well to avoid that trap, especially as we watch many of our cities burn during this long hot summer. 
 
Billy Joel didn't start any fire, but Gideon did. 1300 years before Christ Gideon started a fire that burned down his world. Today's Morning Minutes in the Bible on Sensual Service Saturday is a look at the fire started by the reluctant warrior Gideon that would fit right in with today's headlines as he attacked his home town's traditions and institutions. 
 
Yesterday we noted his vocal distrust of Jehovah, but that God was patient and lead him to trust God, to have faith in Yahweh. Fire was involved in that process in two ways. 
 
First was when Gideon prepared a sacrifice for God and, at the angel's command, set it on a rock. The angel touched it with his staff and it was consumed by fire. Then the angel disappeared before his eyes and Gideon finally believed (Judges 6:19-24). 
 
Second, God called on Gideon to trust him even more by cutting down the Asherah (a wooden idol), tearing down its altar, and using the wood for another sacrifice to God. For Gideon, this added to the pressure of hiding from the Midianites because he was starting a fire that could have burned down his own house since the idol was his own father’s. However, his father stood by him and renounced the idol (Judges 6:25-31). 
 
God does not ask or instruct us to literally burn down idols. Mobs and ungodly people do that, as we see on the nightly news. But for those who claim to worship God he does ask us to examine our hearts and burn out any idols we've set up there. Since this is Sensual Service Saturday the main idol I want us all to consider is the one of worshiping God in a way that pleases us instead of him. That's what the people of Gideon's village had done and he had to burn it down for them. And it's what many of us do. I can't burn it down for you so are you willing to start the fire by burning down your worship idols?

“We didn't start the fire” is a 1989 song by Billy Joel that sprang out of argument over who had a harder childhood; 40 year old Joel or his 21 year old friend. They both made the same mistake that almost everyone makes. They thought history started when they were born. Joel turned the argument into a list of headlines about the challenges he faced growing up. Besides being a simplistic expression of his (and our own) narcissism it wasn’t a very good song and spawned many funny parodies. Joel, and his friend, were foolish to think that their lives were harder than others, or that events during their lifetimes were like a fire burning down their world. We would do well to avoid that trap, especially as we watch many of our cities burn during this long hot summer.

Billy Joel didn't start any fire, but Gideon did. 1300 years before Christ Gideon started a fire that burned down his world. Today's Morning Minutes in the Bible on Sensual Service Saturday is a look at the fire started by the

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