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Thus says the LORD of hosts: "Do not listen to the words of the prophets who prophesy to you. They make you worthless; They speak a vision of their own heart, Not from the mouth of the LORD. (Jeremiah 23:16)

One of man's greatest needs is the wisdom that comes from God. There seems to be a yeaning in the hearts of all human beings for something better than what is offered in this fleshly world. Unfortunately, man seems to look in all of the wrong places, and Satan is willing to fill the void.

Such was true in the days of Jeremiah. The people looked for answers and false prophets were willing to peddle their wares. Their foolish counsel gave the people a false sense of security. There are two characteristics of these false teachers that parallel those of the 21^st Century: 1) they received their counsel from the wrong source, and 2) they offered a false hope.

Jeremiah says: They speak a vision of their own heart, Not from the mouth of the LORD. Their teachings came from private speculations and personal intuition. Such subjective counsel us attractive to the masses. In 2007 it is popular to be "spiritual". However, "spiritual" is loosely defined as whatever pleases the individual. The modern "come as you are", "live as you please" religion focuses on what pleases man rather than God. It we intend to truly be spiritual we must acknowledge the commandments of the Lord. (I Corinthians 14:37)

Jeremiah then added: They continually say to those who despise Me, 'The LORD has said, "You shall have peace"'. (Jeremiah 23:17) Modern religions are designed to make one feel good about themselves. The counsel that comes from God offers peace only to those who painfully acknowledge their faults. Truth can be painful, but beneficial.

Thus, we must "test the spirits" (I John 3:1), For who has stood in the counsel of the LORD, And has perceived and heard His word? Who has marked His word and heard it? (Jeremiah 23:18)

The Parable of the Prodigal

Sat, 15 Sep 2007 22:59:54 -0700

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Prisoner or Free

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 23:27:06 -0700

But I want you to know, brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel, so that it has become evident to the whole palace guard, and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ; and most of the brethren in the Lord, having become confident by my chains, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. (Philippians 1:12-14)

Most of us know that when Paul wrote his letter to Philippi, he was a prisoner in Rome. The recent misfortunes of those close to me have caused me to reflect on the hardships of Paul. Paul's remarkable attitude and wonderful optimism is impressive. He is not really a prisoner, but free. How is that possible?

First, he does not allow circumstances to rule his life. His life is subject to God, not men. Paul had prayed for opportunities to come to Rome.

(Romans 15:30-32) Though it seems a strange way to answer his prayer, as a prisoner Paul had arrived in Rome. For this Paul was grateful no matter what the circumstances. He never allowed occasions or surroundings to rule his life. Only God rules, only his fellowship really counts. What a great attitude!

Second, that which seems evil presents him with opportunities for good. We all have a plan about how life should turn out. Some have the fortune of making dreams and fulfilling those dreams. However, many are not afforded such an opportunity. Sudden tragedy turns their world upside down. For Paul, imprisonment gave opportunity to preach to the Praetorian Guard. These soldiers were drawn to this suffering servant and his remarkable faith. For two whole years he preached the kingdom of God. We should never think that we could serve God better, if circumstances were better than they are.

Third, his example of courage inspired others to boldness in proclaiming the gospel. Tragedies, if handled properly, can embolden others who find themselves in a similar dilemma. An example is better than a command. The sight of a suffering saint, patient, contented, happy, does more to encourage the brethren than a hundred sermons! Such is visible proof of the power of Christ!

Unfortunately, I find myself enslaved to the circumstances of life. If I could just learn to bask in God's sweet fellowship, seek opportunities for good in the midst of evil, then like Paul, I will no longer be enslaved, but free in Christ!

Why Are There So Many Churches

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 09:20:33 -0700