So I'm kind of happy right now. I mean I am just absolutely content and at peace, right now, in this moment. I just breathed a sigh of relief. What a truly amazing feeling.
Actually, 'happy' might be poor word choice. Reason being is 'happy' has to do with circumstance. Joy - that's it. So let me rephrase... So I'm kind of full of joy right now. See, joy has little to do with circumstance and everything to do with the goodness and trust of God. A more descriptive way to express this would be to say that I have a deep Joy welled up in my soul, and the reason for this is directly related to the goodness of God. Again, I am not referrring to goodness reflected by my current life circumcstances, though I certainly have nothing to complain about! I am, however, referring to the goodness of knowing that regardless of what may happen in my life, God is sovereign and always has my best interests at the forefront of His plan for me. And I can truly say I have full trust and confidence in that, in giving the control to Him, having Him be the ONE who sits on the throne of my life. Amen. And believe it or not that evokes an incredible feeling of freedom and abundance that only life in Jesus can bring.
A significant part of this deep joy has to do with what I have been recently reading in the Bible. The Word of God speaks and gives Life and Faith if the reader is willing and open. This is a biblical truth in itself, "Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ" (Romans 10:17). Furthermore, I am learning daily another biblical truth, "Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God" (Matthew 4:4). This is seriously how much we need the Bible if we are to pursue Christ with all our hearts.
So my last blog was about Judges. After that I read Nehemiah, and now I'm in the middle of Numbers. Considering what I just shared in the above paragraph, I'm going to share some of the testimonies that I have found to be the most compelling as of late. First, Nehemiah... After Nehemiah asked King Artaxerxes for permission to rebuild the wall of Jerusalem (2:1-6), he did not expose this vision to those living in Jerusalem until the appropriate time. From the text we can tell that this was at period of at least 3.5 days (2:11-18). The situation warranted that Nehemiah harbor this vision, as he had to inspect the current situation in the city once he got there to consider how he could best accomplish this seemingly monumental task. 2:17-18 show that when he finally did cast this vision to the Israelites, after waiting the appropriate time, they responded in unison, "Let us start rebuilding" (v.18). Moral of the story, be aware/conscious of the appropriate time and place to cast your vision. Furthermore, when you do finally cast it, see it through to the end and realize where your help comes from. For example, when Nehemiah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem face opposition to rebuidling the wall, Nehemiah prays a simple, humble, yet heartfelt and fervent prayer to Almighty God, "Now strengthen my hands" (6:9). What a significant lesson on approach to leadership in the face of adversity. By the way, if you've never read the story the wall gets completely rebuilt (6:16) because God is awesome. Way to go Nehemiah and God.
Now, Numbers... The testimony that captured me in the most significant way was from the 13th chapter, when the Israelites go explore the Promised Land. Ten of the twelve men who went to spy-out the land said the people there were too powerful, the cities too large and fortified to be able to take possession of it (13:27-29). But Caleb, who speaks on behalf of Joshua as well, says, "We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it" (v.30). These two men, in Faith, see beyond the current circumstances. They see with the perspective of the promise of God, that He has said this is the land He would give to the Israelites. So regardless of who owns/inhabits it now, God will surely give it to them! They have vision seasoned with that invaluable Faith perspective, which has full trust and confidence in the promises that God makes to His people - and rightfully so! These men who were willing to go out on a limb and voice a risky and unpopular position are the only two from this bunch God lets into the promised land (14:30). Amen to that. Not that this faith journey is about getting rewards because we seek God, but surely God DOES gives rewards to those who believe in Him so strongly, in the face of opposition or unopularity. Sidenote - if I get to have a son some day I want to name them one of these names, Caleb or Joshua. That is motivating.
I am about to get on a boat and go to South Korea. That is also motivating.
Living the Dream.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Saturday, February 2, 2008
Any difference?
I'm reading the book of Judges right now. I'm only through the first 6 chapters, but the unmistakable cycle of the Israelites turning from God, then being redeemed by Him once again, can be clearly seen. I've often wondered, when reading the Old Testament, how the Israelites, after being blessed by God soo much and redeemed by His great Strength and Power soo many times, can simply turn from Him to worship other gods. They make a habit of it, and it is easy to criticize them for being so short-sighted and having such little faith in the ONE True God who has revealed Himself to them on numerous occassions. Thankfully, because God will not let His name be slandered or mocked, His mighty right hand always comes through to save this chosen people of His.
The Lord made it clear when He gave Moses the 10 Commandments that first and foremost, "You shall have no other gods before me" (Exodus 20:3). Secondly He said, "You shall not make for yourself an idol... You shall not bow down to [the idols] or worship them..." (Exodus 20:4-5). Besides clearly stating it, don't forget when the Lord saved Israel and displayed his love, mercy, compassion, for His chosen people. He brought them out of Egypt, out of their slavery and bondage; He parted the sea so that they could make a successful escape! This is just one of the many examples of God showing these qualities with respect to His chosen people, the Israelites. Despite these facts, they turn to worthless idols and heathen behavior time and again.
As stated before, it is easy to be the critic as we read these testimonies of old, after all, hindsight is 20/20. But herein lies my question and challenge... how is the short-sighted behavior of the Israelites any different than the children of God (the "New Israel" as we are called) today? Even committed Christ followers, those chosen of God (because "we did not chose Him but He chose us" John 15:16), have problems with chronic sin - habits or behaviors that they just can't seem to kick, even though they know full well that the acts/thoughts are sinful. It is like the Apostle Paul says in Romans 7:14-25. I guess it comforts me to know that even the greatest missionary in the history of the church had this problem - that his sinful nature won at times, regardless of how many times he had tasted in the heavenly Gift (and we know that Paul tasted this Gift full well, as He actually saw the Resurrected Christ when he got knocked from his horse on his way to Damascus and became a Christian because of it - see Acts 9 or Acts 22). I would contend, therefore, that my behavior is no different than the nature of the Israelites of old. And as disgusting as it makes me feel, I am just like the Israelites of old except for one REALLY IMPORTANT FACT. That being: I have had the perfect sacrifice made on my behalf, that of Jesus Christ (Hebrews 7:27, 9:26-28). This is actually a REALLY BIG DEAL, because no matter how disgusting I may feel or think I am like the Israelites of old, it simply isn't true! I am a NEW creation in Christ! "The old is gone, behold, the new has come!" (2 Corinthians 5:17). The blood of Jesus' sacrifice covers me and cleanses me from all sin! This is a mystery and nothing short of an ABSOLUTE MIRACLE. So, rather than ending this blog post on a negative note like I thought I was going to, I will rejoice, as Paul does at the end of his passage in Romans 7, "Thanks be to God - through Jesus Christ our Lord!" Because, "If we confess our sins [Jesus] is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteouness" (1 John 1:9). I swear that if the Bible didn't say that in black and white I probably wouldn't believe it since it is soo difficult to comprehend. But dang it; it's the Truth because the Bible does say it, so Hallelujah and Amen!
Do not think that this means as a follower of Jesus you are free to sin. "...do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature" (Galatians 5:13), and be aware of the fact that, "It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age, if they fall away, to be brought back to repentance, because to their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace" (Hebrews 6:4-6).... That is a whole other message, which I'll write about once I wrap my head around it (which I won't ever completely be able to do obviously, though my feeble attempts do produce fruit on occassion).
The Lord made it clear when He gave Moses the 10 Commandments that first and foremost, "You shall have no other gods before me" (Exodus 20:3). Secondly He said, "You shall not make for yourself an idol... You shall not bow down to [the idols] or worship them..." (Exodus 20:4-5). Besides clearly stating it, don't forget when the Lord saved Israel and displayed his love, mercy, compassion, for His chosen people. He brought them out of Egypt, out of their slavery and bondage; He parted the sea so that they could make a successful escape! This is just one of the many examples of God showing these qualities with respect to His chosen people, the Israelites. Despite these facts, they turn to worthless idols and heathen behavior time and again.
As stated before, it is easy to be the critic as we read these testimonies of old, after all, hindsight is 20/20. But herein lies my question and challenge... how is the short-sighted behavior of the Israelites any different than the children of God (the "New Israel" as we are called) today? Even committed Christ followers, those chosen of God (because "we did not chose Him but He chose us" John 15:16), have problems with chronic sin - habits or behaviors that they just can't seem to kick, even though they know full well that the acts/thoughts are sinful. It is like the Apostle Paul says in Romans 7:14-25. I guess it comforts me to know that even the greatest missionary in the history of the church had this problem - that his sinful nature won at times, regardless of how many times he had tasted in the heavenly Gift (and we know that Paul tasted this Gift full well, as He actually saw the Resurrected Christ when he got knocked from his horse on his way to Damascus and became a Christian because of it - see Acts 9 or Acts 22). I would contend, therefore, that my behavior is no different than the nature of the Israelites of old. And as disgusting as it makes me feel, I am just like the Israelites of old except for one REALLY IMPORTANT FACT. That being: I have had the perfect sacrifice made on my behalf, that of Jesus Christ (Hebrews 7:27, 9:26-28). This is actually a REALLY BIG DEAL, because no matter how disgusting I may feel or think I am like the Israelites of old, it simply isn't true! I am a NEW creation in Christ! "The old is gone, behold, the new has come!" (2 Corinthians 5:17). The blood of Jesus' sacrifice covers me and cleanses me from all sin! This is a mystery and nothing short of an ABSOLUTE MIRACLE. So, rather than ending this blog post on a negative note like I thought I was going to, I will rejoice, as Paul does at the end of his passage in Romans 7, "Thanks be to God - through Jesus Christ our Lord!" Because, "If we confess our sins [Jesus] is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteouness" (1 John 1:9). I swear that if the Bible didn't say that in black and white I probably wouldn't believe it since it is soo difficult to comprehend. But dang it; it's the Truth because the Bible does say it, so Hallelujah and Amen!Do not think that this means as a follower of Jesus you are free to sin. "...do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature" (Galatians 5:13), and be aware of the fact that, "It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, who have shared in the Holy Spirit, who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age, if they fall away, to be brought back to repentance, because to their loss they are crucifying the Son of God all over again and subjecting him to public disgrace" (Hebrews 6:4-6).... That is a whole other message, which I'll write about once I wrap my head around it (which I won't ever completely be able to do obviously, though my feeble attempts do produce fruit on occassion).
ONE Lord, ONE faith - 30 January 2008
Dear Friends:
I have some great news for you... our God reigns! He is sovereign, and He cares, and He is faithful.
I have been so encouraged as I've stayed in touch with some of you, since I last wrote in November, to learn about the testimonies that God is giving you as you walk with Him. Hearing about people growing in faith, sharing the Gospel with friends and family, committing to mission work/ministry, being challenged by God in current life circumstances, coming to know Jesus and His redeeming power in a deeper way.... it all points me in ONE direction that can be summed up by Ephesians 4:4-6: "There is one body and one Spirit - just as you were called to one hope when you were called - one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.
When I hear from you with respect to what I mentioned above, I can feel it in the deepest part of my heart that the Jesus you know in whatever part of the world you are in, is the exact same Jesus that I know over here in Japan. While each of us may be more aware of different specific parts of His character, which we have learned through our respective experiences and challenges, I am convinced of this Truth from Ephesians... it is the same God and Father "who is over all and through all and in all." This is part of the mystery of the Gospel and the Faith which we profess. Amen. And it is nothing short of an ABSOLUTE MIRACLE!
Let me share a quick testimony of my own before I conclude, of which some of you I'm sure were catalysts of/a part of... the unit that I am part of just got a new company commander (my direct boss). At the change of command ceremony his first words to the Marines were him thanking God for this opportunity; this got me wondering if he was a Believer. I had to drive him and his family somewhere today since they don't have vehicles yet since they just got here (actually I was driving them to go pick up their new cars) and I had worship music on in my car. He asked me if I "went to church around here." Since he
asked, I dove right in to telling him my testimony since being on the island and what Jesus is doing in my life currently. I quickly learned that he too went to a small Christian college (Covenant College), and his wife grew up in different parts of Africa because her parents are missionaries, and that they are thinking about starting a Bible study for international people that are on the island, which is directly related to their heart for missions and reaching into all the world. How amazing is that! Here is how some of you were involved... as we were conversing in the car I was so FULL of the joy of the Holy Spirit. I knew, so much so that I could literally almost hear the prayers, that some people must have been praying for me to be surrounded by Christ followers, both above me and below me. I know that prayer had to have been said for a circumstance like this to have arose. So... your prayers are being answered. Amen. Thanks be to God. And thank you too.
I will conclude by asking you to pray for me to have an outlet to teach - Bible study, Sunday school, anything... I just feel compelled that I need to be doing that. I will also say that I would love to hear from you about what is going on in your life and how I can pray for you. I have started a blog http://okinawaone.blogspot.com/ if you want to check out my other, more frequent thoughts. I am going to Korea again in late February, but this time I am the only officer going with a detachment of 35 Marines. This is a great opportunity to have as a lieutenant, being the OIC (officer-in-charge) of a deploying detachment, and I can't wait. Finally, I will be promoted to 1st Lieutenant Haack in about a week. Motivating.
In Him who is able to do immeasurably more,
2ndLt Steven R. Haack
I have some great news for you... our God reigns! He is sovereign, and He cares, and He is faithful.
I have been so encouraged as I've stayed in touch with some of you, since I last wrote in November, to learn about the testimonies that God is giving you as you walk with Him. Hearing about people growing in faith, sharing the Gospel with friends and family, committing to mission work/ministry, being challenged by God in current life circumstances, coming to know Jesus and His redeeming power in a deeper way.... it all points me in ONE direction that can be summed up by Ephesians 4:4-6: "There is one body and one Spirit - just as you were called to one hope when you were called - one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.
When I hear from you with respect to what I mentioned above, I can feel it in the deepest part of my heart that the Jesus you know in whatever part of the world you are in, is the exact same Jesus that I know over here in Japan. While each of us may be more aware of different specific parts of His character, which we have learned through our respective experiences and challenges, I am convinced of this Truth from Ephesians... it is the same God and Father "who is over all and through all and in all." This is part of the mystery of the Gospel and the Faith which we profess. Amen. And it is nothing short of an ABSOLUTE MIRACLE!Let me share a quick testimony of my own before I conclude, of which some of you I'm sure were catalysts of/a part of... the unit that I am part of just got a new company commander (my direct boss). At the change of command ceremony his first words to the Marines were him thanking God for this opportunity; this got me wondering if he was a Believer. I had to drive him and his family somewhere today since they don't have vehicles yet since they just got here (actually I was driving them to go pick up their new cars) and I had worship music on in my car. He asked me if I "went to church around here." Since he
asked, I dove right in to telling him my testimony since being on the island and what Jesus is doing in my life currently. I quickly learned that he too went to a small Christian college (Covenant College), and his wife grew up in different parts of Africa because her parents are missionaries, and that they are thinking about starting a Bible study for international people that are on the island, which is directly related to their heart for missions and reaching into all the world. How amazing is that! Here is how some of you were involved... as we were conversing in the car I was so FULL of the joy of the Holy Spirit. I knew, so much so that I could literally almost hear the prayers, that some people must have been praying for me to be surrounded by Christ followers, both above me and below me. I know that prayer had to have been said for a circumstance like this to have arose. So... your prayers are being answered. Amen. Thanks be to God. And thank you too.
I will conclude by asking you to pray for me to have an outlet to teach - Bible study, Sunday school, anything... I just feel compelled that I need to be doing that. I will also say that I would love to hear from you about what is going on in your life and how I can pray for you. I have started a blog http://okinawaone.blogspot.com/ if you want to check out my other, more frequent thoughts. I am going to Korea again in late February, but this time I am the only officer going with a detachment of 35 Marines. This is a great opportunity to have as a lieutenant, being the OIC (officer-in-charge) of a deploying detachment, and I can't wait. Finally, I will be promoted to 1st Lieutenant Haack in about a week. Motivating.
In Him who is able to do immeasurably more,
2ndLt Steven R. Haack
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