Blog Archives - Jethro TOOLS

Watching Water Boil.... Boring

3/31/2020

Colossians 1:9-12
There is an old saying, “A watched pot never boils.” It is attributed to Benjamin Franklin who recorded it in his writings between 1732 and 1758. He used this word picture to describe the feeling of being anxious while waiting for the slow process of change to be completed. The idea is pictured in filling a pot with water, placing it on the stove, then impatiently watching and waiting for the water temperature to change and boil. Paul prays for his audience that they would be filled with the knowledge of God’s will. This is a prayer for the knowledge of God’s will to fill them so they would understand and make the right decisions by living out God’s daily direction for their lives. Paul is thankful for the changes that God bringing (11-12) while praying for their spiritual growth (10) and spiritual strength (11) in the process. Perhaps you are looking at your life and right now and are frustrated with the way things are going. Paul’s solution is applicable to us. He joyful gives thanks to God for bringing change and making it possible for us to be part of His family. We can easily become frustrated with the process of spiritual change in our lives. Pause and thank God that He is working at this very moment, it is just may be taking a bit to bring the water to a boil.

Thanks for Change

3/30/2020

Colossians 1:1-8
Thanks for the change. Most people do not like change. We get set in certain patterns, good or bad, and have a difficult time doing something different. The community changes and a new neighbor moves next door. Your favorite store remodels and now you go to the shelf and what you wanted is no longer there. Physical changes in life are difficult, but internal spiritual changes are the topic of conversation for Paul’s letter to the Colossians. Paul is thankful for the changes that God has made in him and in the church in Colossae. Paul is also thankful for the way that their faith has changed the way they live in relation to others by truly loving them. How is God changing you? Change may not be easy but God makes it good.

Power for a Purpose

3/29/2020

Romans 12:1-8
There was a man who had lived in the woods for many years and did not understand all the changes that had taken place in the world. His friend who had kept up with the changes brought him into town so they could do some business. The friend tried to tell the man about all the new inventions and ways of doing things but the man just could not understand. They arrived at the hotel where they had rooms reserved for the night and the friend tried to explain how the electricity works with power from a generator, to the hotel, to the light switch and then to the light. The man still did not understand. Getting a bit frustrated the friend took off his boots, climbed on the bed and unscrewed the light bulb. He got down and told the man to stand on the bed and stick his thumb in the socket while he turned on the switch. With a quick ZAP the electricity jolted his arm. Hollering and screaming he fell to the bed. His friend turned off the light switch and screwed the light bulb back in. The poor guy on the bed looked at his thumb, then he looked at the light and said, “You will be delighted to know that I now understand electricity! It is powerful and it is very useful in helping me get into bed at night!”

We all have been raised to understand the power and usefulness of electricity. We enjoy the benefits of electricity that come right into our homes. There is real power in those lines that feed into your light switches and outlet plugs. But, if you never use the power you will never experience the benefits of having that power in your house. The same is true spiritually. God has has shown His power by making a way to save us. God has given us His power that will transform our lives. We need to plug into Him and humbly use His power to serve and transform the lives of others around us for God’s honor.

Honk if You Want Peace

3/27/2020

Philippians 4:1-7
Spring is a great time to be out doors and see the grass begin to green, trees begin to bud and geese begin to raise a ruckus. Well, they do not make much noise as long as their nesting area is avoided. But watch out, if anything gets too close to the nest the nice peaceful looking bird instantly turns into a screaming villain. Head down with wings spread the protective goose will charge the intruder while making a loudest racket possible. All they want is peace. In Philippians 4:1-7 we are reminded how to practice a life of peace in the midst of problems. In order to persevere through a problem we must learn how to stand in the problem. That begins by finding our joy in the Lord. Conflicts have a habit of distracting us from the joy that God gives. The challenge is to simply be thrilled with God so much that the focus is taken off the problem and placed on God. Once the attitude is right we can then take all of the problems to God in prayer. The admonition is not to be anxious but pray knowing that God is greater than the problems. With the attitude and action properly aligned God’s peace will rule the heart and mind. You see we have a choice to anxiously charge and honk or rest in the peace that God gives through Jesus Christ.

How are you?

3/26/2020

Psalm 34
How are you doing? That is a simple question that can lead to a long conversation. In the course of our daily schedule we may hear that question and respond with the simple answer of, “good” or “fine.” Those answers do not accurately describe what is really going on deep inside. It is easy to use those words to avoid pain and an honest conversation. But, on the other side it is way too easy for some one to ask the question and keep walking while not waiting for our response. In Psalm 34:15-18 we see that the LORD is attentive when we call out to Him. He does hear and He will save. He is concerned about the broken pieces of our life and He delivers from discouragement. Right now, if you feel isolated and alone call a friend or perhaps be the friend who makes the call. Talk about how you are doing and what God is doing to help you through this time. So… How are you doing?

Music in the Air

3/26/2020

Psalm 34
Take a walk and what do you hear? I happened to take a walk and heard frogs singing their chorus, geese and ducks and their boisterous communication plus many other small birds and a slow moving egret. In all of that natural harmony the wind whistled through the tree branches rustling the grass and the sun peeked out from behind a rain cloud in a perfect crescendo of God’s masterful musical arrangement. It was a good walk. Then there was a bike rider that zoomed by listening to his own music while ignoring the symphony around him. Psalm 34:8 highlights the use of human senses to know the goodness of God. When we are able to turn off our noise we can then discover our refuge in God and the orchestra that He has created for us. Just listen and you will hear His music for you. Find your rest and refuge in God alone.

Pandemic Cure

3/25/2020

Ephesians 2:1-10
Recently we have been watching a pandemic virus sweep across the globe. People are trying anything from isolation to hygiene and medical solutions, yet the virus continues to spread with no cure in sight. As the infection rate climbs so does the death rate as does the level of concern. The physical toll of this virus is deadly and serious. However, what if I told you that there is a spiritual pandemic that is even more serious? There is nothing that people can do to contain or overcome this spiritual virus. Its destruction is worldwide. This spiritual pandemic is sin. Although it may seem hopeless from a human standpoint, there is hope because God has offered the solution. The cure is that God in His grace offered the perfect and only redemption for the sin of all humanity. This undeserved favor is gained by faith, believing that Jesus took our place thus paying our debt of sin. If that is true for you you are now a servant with a new purpose. Do you know others dealing with the pandemic of sin? Tell them that there is a cure.

For more see Ephesians

Pause... Do This

3/24/2020

Psalm 84
The word SELAH… Do you know what it means? This word is used 71 times in the Psalms and three times in Habakkuk chapter 3. Selah is a musical term, but not much is known or understood about it. The best understanding is that this word means to play this part louder, sing louder or pause the instruments at this point. It is important to practice this for the simple reason that our life often becomes way too busy. We need to pause and we need to praise God. Slowing down is not just ceasing from activity or work. That is an important part but often our mind is still in overdrive with worries or plans. God has His own way of working to bring us as people to the point where we realize that we are not in control like we believe we are. Try reading through Psalm 84 and pause each time you see the word Selah. As you pause and reflect on what has been written about God stop and praise God. This might be why God has you where you are right now. Selah

O Deer... Understanding

3/24/2020

Job 39
The other day I saw a deer charging in my front yard. No, I do not have a credit card reader for access to cross my property. What I did see was was the old mother of the herd lowering her head to the ground and charging one of the younger yearlings of the herd. I did not give them permission to fight in my yard, but deer are different than me. While I may not understand all of the reasons for the mothers action I do know that the young males are chased away shortly before the babies of the new year are born. With much observation we may understand some of the actions of deer. In Job 39 we see God respond to Job’s previous penetrating questions. God in turn responds to Job with a series of His own questions. This chapter is a simple reminder of God’s grace at work to bring about His good design and ultimate blessing. God allowed Job to walk through the difficulties that He did so He could show His grace and blessing in the end. We may just focus on the good and the blessing, but God is intent on showing His grace and displaying His greatness. God will use any situation to to remind us of His sustaining grace. The problem is that like the young buck being chased out of the herd we may not see or understand the ultimate purpose and become bewildered and frightened. Through this chapter God reminds Job that He knows what is going on, He is in control and that He has everything planned out to display His greatness.

Compromise or Cure

3/23/2020

Nehemiah 13
Compromise is a simple action that can lead to disastrous consequences. This is true in the spread of disease or poor personal choices. The cure for compromise is found in the clear eyed perception of the problem, being disturbed by the problem and taking clear action steps to correct the problem. In the beginning chapter of Nehemiah we see that Nehemiah heard about the problems in Jerusalem and was personally moved to the point of his involvement to do something about the problem. Again, in chapter 13 we see that God has placed Nehemiah in the midst of a problem to help solve the problem. All along, God was the one guiding, directing and providing for Nehemiah. What problems and needs has God made clear to you? Don’t give in or go along. True spiritual leaders will seek to please God alone by working to restore people to a pure relationship with Him alone. Three times in chapter 13 (verse 14, 22 & 31) Nehemiah asks God to remember him for his faithfulness as he sought to bring about God honoring solutions. Remember that compromise spreads easily like a disease while the cure may be painful and slow. Allow God to direct your actions to be part of the cure that honors to Him and not the compromise that pulls people away from honoring Him.

Location Dedication

3/23/2020

Nehemiah 12:31-43
Location, location, location; these three words are a realtor’s dream and a business owner’s hope. The dream is to find the right house in the right location and place the business where the most people will see it. But, what about all of the other locations? In a way, this question is similar to what we see in Nehemiah 11-12. Some of the people were assigned to live in the city and others were living outside in the surrounding towns. Everyone had a job to do even though the wall was completed. There were ongoing jobs that were needed to support the economy and the temple but everyone was involved in the one job of worship and praise of God as the wall was dedicated. Together they raised their voices and made their joy heard by all. Like the people of Israel, together let us raise our voices and joyfully proclaim the greatness of our God to all who will hear. Just like the people of Nehemiah’s day, we are here for God’s purpose in this location.

I Promise

3/23/2020

Nehemiah 10
Promises are made to be broken. That is a common phrase that we hear today in many circles. There is an underlying belief that if one says the right words someone else will do what I wish or want. Often today the intent of a promise is just to create peace with selfish motives. In the book of Nehemiah we have seen the wall finished and now begins the process of rebuilding the people. The people have responded to the leaders with a desire to hear God’s word and in this chapter they make a covenant or promise to God. God has always been faithful and the people finally come to the point of realizing that they must value their relationship with God, practice a trusting rest in God, and commit to invest in God’s work. A promise is made to be kept. God is always faithful to keep His promises. Are we faithful in keeping our promises to Him?

Prayer

3/23/2020

Nehemiah 9
Prayer is such a small word yet it is one that seems to be so powerful. Often it is believed that if a prayer is said then God will magically act in some way for our good. In believing and acting this way prayer becomes a way to get what we want rather than hear and respond to what God wants. In Nehemiah 9 we see that there are several aspects to this prayer. First is a recognition of personal sin and helplessness to deal with it (1-4). Second, we see the greatness of God and a turning to Him (5-37). Finally, there is worship of God (38). From this passage we see that prayer is not a formula for life but a recipe for a proper relationship with God. God wanted Nehemiah to record this prayer to be a guide to all that read it. Our purpose when we come to God in prayer should be having heart desire for a right relationship with Him and a desire to worship Him for what He does that we can not. So how is your prayer life?

Joy in God Alone

3/23/2020

Nehemiah 8:1-12
Happiness and joy… We all want it and look for ways to get it. However there are the dark days when we look around at the reality of our life. The situation that we live in seems hopeless and then we see the condition of our own lives and the desire for joy turns into desperation and sorrow. The people of Nehemiah’s day faced the same situation. They saw the need for more work in the city and then they came to realize the condition of their own lives as they heard God’s Word. Their response was one of sorrow, but Nehemiah encouraged them to focus on God and find their joy in Him not in the circumstance of life. Joy is found in resting confidently in God, listening to His Word and responding to Him not the fears and sorrows. Nehemiah shows us how to listen to and obey God.

Three lessons from Nehemiah:
1. God is the only One who can save
2. Credit God for His work
3. Without God our effort is futile

Perspective for Discouragement

3/23/2020

Nehemiah 4:7-23
Problems, we all have them. If we think someone is without problems then we do not know them. The cure for discouragements that distract us from following God is to pray and seek God’s face, see His perspective and follow His plan. In Nehemiah 4 we begin to see the rise of opposition to the work that God has called the people to do. Those that struggled, sacrificed and overcame are the ones that are remembered in history and through the book of Nehemiah. What job has God called you to do? Be faithful and persist even in the difficulties. God will provide all that is needed to accomplish His task.

Three simple action steps practiced by Nehemiah:
1. Pray - address the fear(s) and uncertainties with God
2. Perspective - remember that God is greater than the problem
3. Plan - see what can be done to work toward God’s goals

Sovereign Service Shoveling Snow

3/22/2020

Romans 9:1-7
It is snowing! Yes, as I look out my window fresh snow is falling and more is on the way. Some may not enjoy it, but I do enjoy the feeling of cold on my face, hands and even toes. It is refreshing and invigorating. My first real job involved shoveling snow off the sidewalks circling a business complex. Most of it was not too hard but when the wind blew, one side of each of the four buildings collected a large snow drift. My job was to faithfully shovel so others could access the businesses. Out of my relationship with my employer I was able to help others. I remember being able to give money at Christmas time to people working in other countries to tell others of Jesus. I was blessed so I could be a blessing. Paul uses his own life as an example in Romans 9:1-5. He understands how God has blessed him through salvation in Christ. Paul also sees that others are not experiencing this blessing because of their rejection of Jesus. His desire is to simply see others know the saving grace found only through trusting Jesus to save them. Paul wanted others to know God’s great salvation so they could be a blessing and tell other of Jesus. Let others see your confidence in Jesus as your Savior as you serve like your savior, telling others of the savior, so they can know the savior. Our sovereign God will reward your faithful service even though at times it may feel like you are shoveling snow drifts.

O Deer... a life of trust

3/21/2020

Matthew 6:25-34
The other day I went for a good long walk. It was one of those cool windy days with a bit of rain when hardly anyone else was out. As I was lost in my own thoughts I did not notice what was around me. All of a sudden I saw a deer that I could almost touch. Then as I looked around I realized that I was literally surrounded by deer. In total during the walk I saw 17 deer, all kinds of birds including robins, a woodpecker, ducks and geese, plus two rabbits. I marveled at the fact that they were not the least bit concerned with the weather, much less the traffic that could be heard on the highway. You could say they were at peace while they were surrounded with wind, rain and noise. The animals understood that all their possessions were provided by the Father who feeds them. They were not anxious but faithfully trusted God to provide for them. As the birds sang their songs and the deer nibbled branches they went about doing exactly what they were created to do. By simply living they were bringing praise to the One who created them. They were not anxious or preoccupied with gathering things to survive, instead they had a very simple understanding that all they needed would be provided by God. Matthew 6:25-34 has a repeated idea of worry in contrast to trusting God. Regardless of where we are we do have a heavenly Father who watches over His children. You can rest in Him and trust Him to provide all that you need. Do you?

Pain in the Sole

3/20/2020

Romans 3:22-24
Ouch! One small pebble in our shoe causes us to stop, take the shoe off and dump out the pain causing offender. The other day I could not understand why the sole of my foot was hurting. I felt a consistent sharp pain with every step that I took. I just happened to stick my hand inside the old shoe and guess what I found? Not one but two sharp unmoving objects. Upon further investigation I discovered that I had stepped on a staple some time back and worn off the staple so it was not visible from the bottom of the shoe. Sin is like that in that it is corruption causing pain on the inside which makes us walk with a spiritual limp on the outside. We all need God’s grace to cleanse us from sin and make us right with Him. I had to grab a pair of pliers that my father had given me to pull out the corroded barbs of the staple. What I could not do personally the pliers was able to do easily. Like using the pliers we are made right with God through the redemptive work of Jesus on our behalf. I needed the gift that my father had given me to fix the shoe. I believed that what he gave was the only solution. I also need the gift of a right standing with God that God the Father offers through Jesus. By faith we accept His gift of grace to deal with our dilemma of sin. Jesus offers salvation that will remedy the pain in your soul.

Faith in the Sufficiency of God

3/19/2020

Habakkuk 3:3-19
Growing up in our house there was never a lack for one thing…food. Mom always made sure there was enough to eat at the table regardless if it was a regular family meal, a picnic or a huge feast with many people invited and the table extended. On Mother’s Day we pause to praise our mother’s for what they have done but also who they are. Habakkuk has come to the same place. After questioning God and understanding God’s plan of action, Habakkuk praises God for who He is not just for what He has done. Habakkuk realizes that God alone is sufficient even if everything else is taken away. He encourages others too praise God even in times of uncertainty because God is trustworthy.

Faith in God

3/19/2020

Habakkuk 3:1-2
Confidence is something that employers look for in a new hire. Our confidence in the ability of someone else is often doubted. Confidence in God … well we struggle with that because we as people desire an outcome that is acceptable, understandable, and comfortable. Habakkuk desired to see God change his world. However, the test of his confidence and faith in God came to a climax when God revealed what He was about to do. God would judge and punish sin in a dramatic way. Habakkuk was stunned, yet he was confident that God would work out His perfect plan just as He had done in the past. When life seems to fall apart hang on to God through persistent prayer and with an unwavering trust in what He is doing.

Living by Faith

3/19/2020

Habakkuk 1:12-2:20
Babies are cute when they are born. They don’t do much other than eat and sleep… Well, OK, they do some other things but we won’t talk about that. As children grow they go through stages of growth physically and mentally. One way you might see a mental change is when they start to use the word “why.” Frustrated parents will hear the word repeated, at times, with out end. Although Habakkuk is not a child he questions God regarding His actions (1:12-17). God patiently provides the answers in chapter 2. However, do you see how God responds in Habakkuk 2:1-5? The answer is redirected away from what others are doing to an emphasis on being righteous. Those who are righteous will live by faith. A life of faith is lived even though God’s actions are not understood. Habakkuk is to believe in God alone and act on that belief by living faithfully for God. We never possess faith in God when we in our pride have a better way. Living by faith is the daily practice of confidence in God.

Questions of Faith

3/19/2020

Habakkuk 1:1-11
Life is not fair! Have you ever thought that? Have you ever said that? We may attempt all kinds of solutions on our own or we may cry out to God pleading for His involvement. The Old Testament prophet, Habakkuk did just that. He cried out in prayer to God wondering why God had not done anything about the problems that he saw every day. God responded, assuring that He is at work but not through what is normal or expected ways. Like Habakkuk we need to be looking for God to work and be amazed at the way He chooses to work in our lifetime. Habakkuk looked around and all he could see was a hopeless situation. Life may seem that way for you but there is hope because God does answer prayer and He is at work. When life seems to fall apart hang on to God through persistent prayer and with an unwavering trust in what He is doing.

Light for the Path

3/19/2020

Psalm 119:105-112
A screech and a howl pierced the still night air as I sat alone writing. I set the computer aside and moved quickly to the back window that looks into the woods. It may have been two cats having a conversation or two raccoons squabbling over food. What ever it was quit. I briefly considered going outside but was unsure where the flashlight was. Without the flashlight I could easily slip going down the steps or stumble over an unknown fallen tree branch. In Psalm 119 we see that God’s Word is like a lamp that lights the way for where we walk (105). Like a flashlight God’s Word is a personal guide that keeps us (106), revives us (107) and teaches us (108). God’s Word is a practical guide that is useful in all of life (109-110) and a permanent guide as it brings joy to the heart (111-112). I could have walked out without being able to see where I was going or see what was in my pathway. More than likely it would have ended up with me tripping or stubbing my foot. I would have been hollering and the animals would have been laughing. In walking through life we need God’s Word to light our way. Each day ask God to use the Bible verses you read to keep you from stumbling spiritually.

For more see Psalm 119

Mountain Top Perspective... While in the Valley

3/19/2020

Psalm 121
Where do you turn when life is long, hot, dry and hard? Where do you go for protection and security? In a battle situation the position with the greatest advantage is always the high ground. If you are above your enemy then you will have greater visibility and an easier position to defend. As we think about this picture let’s review the background of Psalm 121. Most likely this Psalm was written for travelers to sing as they travelled to Jerusalem. Yes they sang as they walked in much the same way as we might sing on a long car ride to pass the time and drudgery.

The Question of Hope, Help and Security
Imagine David walking on a winding road through a valley on the way up to Jerusalem which geographically sits on top a mountain in the hill country. He begins with a question about where his help comes from (1). As a military leader he was seeing the best position on top of the hill. He realized that he was in a vulnerable position and his eyes confirmed what he saw. What do you eyes see? Do you only see the present difficulties and the difficult position that you are in? David’s view was beyond the mountains to God who is above the mountains. He had eyes of faith to see what others might not see. He wanted help and he knew that he had to look above and beyond his present situation to God who is greater than the present situation.

God is Helper
In verses 2-8 David is reminded about five key actions of God. The first is that God is a helper (2). David is certain of who his helper is. There is no one else who helps like God. He also sees that creation reminds him of the one who is helping Him. David sees that the all-powerful God who made the heavens and earth is helping him. That alone gives hope for today. David was trusting God alone to help him. Are you trusting in God to help and save you?

God is Guarding
Next, David sees God as the one who guards him (3). He states that God will not allow your foot to slip. The path of life is always filled with uncertain slippery situations. David finds his confidence in God to guard his steps and keep him from slipping. But notice what he says in verse three. This guarding that God does is not just a one time event. David sees that God is always attentive and watching over his life. God is always faithful and will not doze or even take a short nap or rest. God sees your situation, God knows the difficulties of your situation and God is certainly attentive to your situation. David knows that God cares about the events of his life and you can know that God cares about you and the events of your life.

God is Watchful
Thirdly, David sees that God is watchful (4). He understands God’s care in verse three but moves to a greater understanding of God’s overall knowledge over all of life in verse four. God does not sleep or slumber and because this is true God knows all that is going on. He is always watchful and thus always knowing. Remember how David started this Psalm with a reference to the hills and the high ground? David in a way sees life from God’s perspective on high and realizes that always aware and always watching all the events of life. There is nothing that surprises Him. People may question and challenge why certain things happen, but David realizes that God wants him to trust in Him because He knows and is watching over all things.

God is Protector
Next, David sees God as more than just passively watching, but being active in protecting and sustaining (5-6). The best place to be on a very hot day is not out in the open but in the shade of a large tree or building. The only way to find protection from the burning heat is to step into the shade. Rest in the shade is found as one sits down and leans back on the tree as the sun beats down. Protection from the heat of life’s problems is only found as we rest in the shade of God’s presence at this present moment. The sun’s position may change but David is confident that God will keep and protect those who seek shelter in His presence. However, David does not just end with one event during one day. He sees God protecting all day and all night. David’s view of God’s power is not limited to one event or situation. He trusts God for all of life’s events during the day or the night.

God is Preserver
Finally, David sees God as the one who protects and preserves his life (7-8). God is not limited in time or power because David states that God will protect from all evil. This powerful God will not just protect life but also preserve the soul of those who trust Him to save or preserve them. God is faithful and unchanging and He will protect and preserve when you go out to start the day and when you come in to end the day. David says that the LORD will always be the one who saves from now and forever. David is confident that God will save forever. I hope that is true for you. God wants to not only save from the problems but also for all time. Will you trust Him like David?

Where do you turn when the difficulties of life are as high as the mountains? When we trust in God alone as the only one who helps, guards, watches, protects and preserves we can find rest in His presence when the problems in life heat up.

Purified by God

3/17/2020

Romans 8:26-30
This past week has been interesting in many ways. We all have seen the news about the spread of the corona virus and then how governments around the world are trying to protect their citizens. To me what is even more interesting is the general response of fear that seems to highlight many conversations. However, have you noticed the few people on the news that have survived the virus? They openly share their experience in order to provide hope and encouragement to the rest of us. That is a picture of what God wants to do through our lives. He wants to change us through our life experiences and use us to communicate the cure and hope that we have found in Jesus. God uses all of our life situations to challenge, change and conform us to be more like Christ. This process is called sanctification and God wants us to trust Him to work out all things according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). He is there to help us pray when we can’t pray (26-27) and work out the process of our growth and conformity (28-30). This week let the world see Jesus in you not the fear of a virus in you.