This entry is part 4 of 4 in the series The BeatitudesBlessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. (Matthew 5:6, ESV) What do you hunger and thirst for? What do you desire? These questions come to mind as we consider the verse before us. There may be a multitude of responses to the questions that have just been brought forward. Perhaps you’re really looking forward to dinner this...
This entry is part 3 of 4 in the series The BeatitudesBlessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. (Matthew 5:5, ESV) Blessedness has always looked different in the eyes of God. Many of us would not immediately think of the word “meek” when considering those who will “inherit the earth.” We probably think of bold, boastful, brutish men who have drive and determination. A cunning general or a ruthless dictator. History shows...
This entry is part [part not set] of 6 in the series Contemplating and Studying GodPsalm 77 contains many “thought” words such as “remember,” “selah,” “meditate,” “ponder,” and “muse.” Asaph was certainly a thinker, perhaps a little too much for his own good in that his thinking often drove him to fear (see Psalm 73). Yet, he sanctified his much thinking and struggled within himself and the sanctuary until he gained the victory and ascended...
This entry is part 5 of 6 in the series Contemplating and Studying GodJ. I. Packer gives a rich definition of meditation: Meditation is the activity of calling to mind, and thinking over, and dwelling on, and applying to oneself, the various things that one knows about the works and ways and purposes and promises of God. It is an activity of holy thought, consciously performed in the presence of God, under the eye of...
This entry is part [part not set] of 6 in the series The Cost and Call of Shepherding - Jeremiah 23I will also raise up shepherds over them and they will tend them; and they will not be afraid any longer, nor be terrified, nor will any be missing,” declares the Lord. The shepherds will be active in their shepherding. It seems obvious that shepherds would tend a flock; that is their job. Yet many take the title without...
