Stand out and be distinctive

After the Beatitudes, these words of Jesus are recorded. I wonder if they are said as an encouragement to bolster faith and enthusiasm to keep going in doing the hard things Jesus has been teaching. To show the purpose of developing the kind of character that Jesus has been encouraging the disciples to develop. 

Matthew 5:13–16 (ESV): 

You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet. 

14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. 

Disciples of Jesus are meant to stand out, not be hidden. The verses just before this are Jesus explaining the benefits of being; hungry for faith, mourning, being meek, humble, kind, merciful, forgiving, not giving payback, being honest and having integrity. These are the character traits that God rewards, they take time and effort to develop and they also cause people to stand out. How many people do you know who are meek or merciful, or any of the other characteristics? Probably not many, but i would expect that those you do know are people that you admire and respect because of these attributes. Those who believe in and follow Jesus should display these characteristics as they are salt and light to the world - they are born to stand out and be distinctive.

Jesus says, “You are the salt of the earth….You are the light of the world”. It is not an option. This is what disciples of Jesus are. This is your identity when you trust and believe in Jesus, you become salt and light. So what does Jesus mean when he says this?

"You are the salt of the earth" - Salt preserves and gives taste, improving the eating experience and keeping things fresh and usable. It can also be used to promote healing. Salt has good properties that are used and appreciated by everyone. It is commonly used, and nowadays is used in many products from food items to cleaning and gardening products. Salt is effective. As people of God you are called to be effective too. Not by doing lots of incredible, mighty deeds, but by standing out as different where you are and in what you are doing. You can tell when salt is present. People should be able to detect that there is something different about you and that you are present because of the goodness and freshness you bring due to your character developed in faith. Also, you are to remain salty. It is not enough to have a go at being meek or honest, but you are to keep on being so, the same for being forgiving and kind and being passionate for God. Do not let the concerns and distractions around you prevent you from being who God created you to be and displaying righteousness. The world needs salt, so keep being salty. This is what Jesus has said you are. Keep demonstrating godliness, meekness, integrity, forgiveness and mercy even when people do not like or want it. Salt in a wound stings, but it also heals, so trust that God will heal the hurting through the character being developed in you. Do not try to tone down who you are in God, you can't tone down salt - you either have salt or you don’t, and if you lose your flavour Jesus says you become good for nothing, fit to be “thrown out and trampled under people’s feet”. You don't want that, so keep being salty! Sometimes fear and despondency cause people to lose their distinctiveness. So make sure you remind yourself of the goodness of God and avoid the fear of man’s disapproval. Later on in the book of Matthew Jesus is recorded as saying, “do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” (Matthew 10:28). Do not be put off by hardship or persecution, not everyone likes salt. If something is too salty for them, they spit it out. Let them do that without it upsetting or offending you. For they are rejecting Christ in you, but they cannot take away your love and reverence for Him unless you let them. People have not got power to defeat you, but God has the the power to determine your eternal future. So live a life of saltiness.

As a follower of Jesus, you are also the light of the world. You can illuminate the world - what a great privilege and responsibility! Do not dull the personality that God has formed in you, dumb down your faith, or fail to shine in dark situations. Instead allow the Holy Spirit show you how to bring your light in every situation. By displaying the character Jesus has outlined, you can show people what the Kingdom of God is like. You shed light onto the fact that God is real, living and active today. People see that you are different, they see goodness and beauty in who you are and what you are doing because you are the light of the world. This also means that even in the darkest times and places you can see - you have hope. You know in difficult situations that there is an eternal future, so you can keep shining and keep trusting.  Sometimes it may be that you can keep smiling at times when others aren't, that you trust a situation is going to work out or that you are not panicking when bad things happen. Do not be afraid to be that light, and do not hide it. Continue to be the light of the world, how will people know there is a God otherwise?  A light does not choose when it comes on. Once the switch is pressed, it shines. Your light is turned on when you turn and believe in Jesus and choose to follow him.You cannot turn the light within you off, do not try to dim it or cover it up either. Remember that when you are around people ‘see your good works and give glory glory to your Father in heaven’. As you continue in good, godly character, and persist in situations others cannot stand, you are displaying something of God. So, make sure you are pointing out that it is your Father in heaven that equips and inspires you to be the light.

You are salt - you are different and you stand out. Plus you are light - you can see and illuminate the darkness. Do not hide who you are. Thank God that he has made you to be salt and light to the world. By being so, you are showing the world that there is a God who loves and cares for them and can give them a life that is different too - a life of distinctiveness.

Are you blessed?

Matthew 5:1–12 (ESV): 

5 Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him. 

The Beatitudes

2 And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying: 

3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 

4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. 

5 “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. 

6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. 

7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. 

8 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. 

9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. 

10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 

11 “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. 

Jesus had something particular that he wanted the disciples to know, so he drew them close to him, making sure that they could see and hear him. Through this teaching, Jesus helped to reframe their thinking by showing them that God sees, cares about, and honours different things than what the average human does. 

God cares about not just the poor in a financial sense, but the poor in spirit. Those who recognise their need of God and live in humility before him - they are blessed. Those who mourn, grieve, are sad for a time (mourning should not last forever), are promised comfort. A sad demeanour should not be constant for anyone. The promise is that ‘they shall be comforted’. God will bring comfort, and when He does, accept it. 

The meek - gentle, humble and submissive, ‘shall inherit the earth’! Those who will not put themselves forward, who recognise their limits, who allow others to go first and treat them with kindness, these are the ones who get everything. Meekness is not admired, fostered or appreciated by the majority of the world, but God admires it. It is a quality that is rare, but is valued when it is seen. Can you develop meekness in your own life? 

Hungering and thirsting for righteousness promises satisfaction. There are many things you can hunger and thirst for; food, money, possessions, promotion, a particular standard of life. These things do not offer satisfaction, only hungering and thirsting for God does. If you want to be really fulfilled, seek God. he provides all you need, and more. 

The merciful shall receive mercy - that makes sense. We like to feel that you get what you deserve. This promise is that you do by not treating others as they deserve! When you show forgiveness and leniency to those who have wronged you, you too are dealt with leniently and can know forgiveness as you are afforded mercy by God. 

‘Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God’ - being sincere and living with integrity means that you shall see God - how incredible! Are your motives and thoughts pure? Are you concerned about material matters or spiritual ones? Only one kingdom will last forever, so make sure you are aligning your thoughts, motives and behaviour with what God desires, then you shall see Him.

The peacemakers, those who strive to bring peaceful resolution and not riots, fall-outs, complications or arguments, are living like sons of God. It is easy to argue with someone, or cause strife between people, harder to get different people with different opinions, perspectives, and desires working together. Yet, is that not exactly what God does? He calls everyone to be part of His family, from every class, situation and nation. So, by drawing others into unity of purpose, you can demonstrate that you are indeed acting like God’s child. 

These are the things Jesus taught his disciples as he went up the mountain. These lessons were for the disciples, those closest to him, those he had called to himself. Yet others would have heard as it mentions that there were crowds. The real cost of discipleship is not what job you have, where you live, how much you do or give, but it is developing the character that displays the Kingdom of God. I am sure you admire and appreciate people who demonstrate these attributes, but do you also have them? 

The character of Joseph

Having set the genealogy of Jesus, Matthew goes onto speak about his conception and birth. For the circumstances of the pregnancy and birth of this child were most unusual and miraculous:

Matthew 1:18–25 (ESV):

Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. 19 And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. 20 But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” 22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: 

 23  “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, 

and they shall call his name Immanuel” 

(which means, God with us). 24 When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife, 25 but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus. 

This passage of Scripture shows a humble and righteous man in Joseph. He had probably waited for quite some time before getting to officially marry Mary, the betrothal process taking up to 2 years. In Israel at this time betrothal was a long period to allow for negotiations about bride price and arrangements for the marriage to be made. It was not a private agreement between two people either, families and the wider community would be aware when a man and woman were joined together in this way. During betrothal the couple were considered legally bound to one another already, it is much more than what we may understand an engagement to be. Betrothal is an official agreement, already binding two people together that can only be broken through divorce. It is a serious commitment, and this is what Joseph and Mary had entered into. This makes the circumstances of Mary becoming pregnant so serious and devastating for them both.

During this process of betrothal Joseph finds that his promised wife is pregnant. Not only that, but she has a most unusual story as to how! No wonder he initially thought about divorcing her, she not only has been unfaithful, but is lying about it. However, Joseph did not act rashly, he considered what to do. He clearly loved Mary as he was ‘unwilling to put her to shame’, he knew what treatment would befall her as an unmarried mother. Joseph, simply referred to as a ‘just man’ acted in a respectful and honourable manner towards Mary when he did not need to. Society would likely have responded in a very different way. If she wasn’t stoned to death, Mary would at least have been ostracised. Joseph did not want that for her. Instead, he chose to love her even in the way he ‘resolved’ what action to take. He could have humiliated and shamed Mary in front of her family and the whole community, yet he honours her instead. Even though Joseph must have been heartbroken; the promise of a wife, the awaited union, the hope of family to come, all shattered as he finds out his betrothed is pregnant and he had nothing to do with it. Yet Joseph did not act out of anger or fear, or even in concern for his reputation. Instead he considered and determined his course of action. This shows he was an honourable and considerate man, sensible, not prone to anger, and he didn’t just go along with cultural norms. Joseph desired to do the right thing by himself, Mary, and his community. Even before the angel appeared to him, we can see Joseph is a kind, generous and considered man who is slow to anger. He would make a good husband and father with those qualities, no wonder God chose him.

Then, the angel comes. The circumstances of the pregnancy are revealed, and Joseph, despite his own reservations, concerns and the likely whisperings of society, is obedient to God. He did as the angel told him as soon as he woke up! He had considered and delayed his course of action before then, but as soon as he knew God had spoken, he acted. What faith and faithfulness! He did the unthinkable really, he married a pregnant young woman who was not carrying his child! Yet he did it because God said so. It would not have been easy for Joseph. He would have had awkward conversations as Mary’s pregnancy became more obvious, there would be rumours, his reputation would be called into question as well as Mary’s. It must have been difficult for them both. However, both Joseph and Mary knew what had happened and were obedient to God, even though it was scary and they didn’t know who would believe them. 

Not only was Joseph obedient in marrying Mary, but even after the official wedding ceremony is complete, Joseph chooses not to consummate their marriage until after Jesus is born. He respects God so much that he puts aside himself, his rights and desires, in order to honour both God and Mary. What a humble, sacrificial man. Joseph shows himself to be a man committed to God and doing the right thing, even at his own expense. Kind, generous and faith-filled, obedient, slow to anger, considered and considerate. It is not surprising that God chose him to be the earthly father to His son. Out of painful and difficult circumstances, Joseph got to help mould and develop the Son of God. We can see that as a great privilege, which i am sure it was, but it did not come without pain and difficulty. Joseph was willing to deny himself in order to honour God and others. If you want to make an impact in the World for God’s Kingdom, are you willing to do the same; to be obedient to God even when it is inconvenient, painful and cross-cultural? God can call you to do some amazing things, but do you have the right character for it? Joseph did.

Wondrous works

 Psalm 111:1–10 (ESV): 

1 Praise the Lord! 

 I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart, 

in the company of the upright, in the congregation. 

 2  Great are the works of the Lord, 

studied by all who delight in them. 

 3  Full of splendour and majesty is his work, 

and his righteousness endures forever. 

 4  He has caused his wondrous works to be remembered; 

the Lord is gracious and merciful. 

 5  He provides food for those who fear him; 

he remembers his covenant forever. 

 6  He has shown his people the power of his works, 

in giving them the inheritance of the nations. 

 7  The works of his hands are faithful and just; 

all his precepts are trustworthy; 

 8  they are established forever and ever, 

to be performed with faithfulness and uprightness. 

 9  He sent redemption to his people; 

he has commanded his covenant forever. 

Holy and awesome is his name! 

10  The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; 

all those who practice it have a good understanding. 

His praise endures forever! 

If you find it too much to consider God and His character, why not start by considering His works? This psalmist repeats the fact that God has performed works which demonstrate who He is and what He cares about. For the things that you; do, give your time to, and put effort into, show what you care about, and something of who you are. If someone were to study what you do and how you do it, they would get a good sense of who you are and what you value. The same is true for the works of God. If you study them, then you will get a good idea of who God is and what He is concerned about. 

This psalm shows us that the things God does are wonderful, great, and are sources of delight for those who consider them. The works of God are ‘full of splendour and majesty’, ‘faithful and just’. When you think about them you cannot fail to see power, love, consideration and perfection in them. Consider; healings, breakthroughs, miraculous provision, overthrowing of evil practices, unmasking of deception, defeated powers that quash the people of God, both in the past and in the present. What do these things show of who God is? For me, it shows that God is powerful, He can overrule any power of nature, interrupt any process and perform incredible, mighty acts of restoration and destruction that no-one could foresee. It shows me that I can trust God with the big and small things because He has influence and can do greater things than i can imagine. God is reliable, kind, and cares about the long-term for His people. He is not interested in short-term gains like we often are. God is not concerned with our comfort but our faith and the benefit of His people as a whole.  These are just some of the conclusions i can draw from the works of God that i have seen and read about. What do you see of God from what you have seen or heard Him do?

When we contemplate and talk about the deeds of God, they inspire praise and awe of Him amongst His people for ‘He has shown his people the power of his works’. It is important that we remind ourselves and others of His works, even sharing the same stories as they help us see God’s nature. By so doing we can help others realise that God is trustworthy, faithful, good, wise, noble, fair, righteous, caring and has great foresight. So, when was the last time you shared a joyful story about what God has done? It can be your story or someone else's or one from scripture that has inspired you. God, 'has caused his wondrous works to be remembered', these stories and experiences are not just for you, but to be shared in order to encourage and build up other brothers and sisters of faith. Recalling what God has done will build faith, joy, hope and bring a natural overflow of praise. It does us good to look at and consider His works. This psalmist tells us that God’s works cause His people delight so that they overflow with gratitude - are you thankful today for the things God has done? For His works are; great, splendid, incredible, majestic, righteous, wonderful, powerful, faithful, just and upright!

This psalm concludes, ‘The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding. His praise endures forever!’ Considering the works of God should fill you with awe of Him. The fear of the Lord is a wonder at how great and mighty He is. So as you consider God and the things He does, allow awe and wonder build, as you see and share His wondrous works. Then you will begin to taste what wisdom is.

Living in humility

 Psalm 103:1–22 (ESV): 

Bless the Lord, O my soul, 

and all that is within me, 

bless his holy name! 

 2  Bless the Lord, O my soul, 

and forget not all his benefits, 

 3  who forgives all your iniquity, 

who heals all your diseases, 

 4  who redeems your life from the pit, 

who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, 

 5  who satisfies you with good 

so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. 

 6  The Lord works righteousness 

and justice for all who are oppressed. 

 7  He made known his ways to Moses, 

his acts to the people of Israel. 

 8  The Lord is merciful and gracious, 

slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. 

 9  He will not always chide, 

nor will he keep his anger forever. 

 10  He does not deal with us according to our sins, 

nor repay us according to our iniquities. 

 11  For as high as the heavens are above the earth, 

so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him; 

 12  as far as the east is from the west, 

so far does he remove our transgressions from us. 

 13  As a father shows compassion to his children, 

so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him. 

 14  For he knows our frame; 

he remembers that we are dust. 

 15  As for man, his days are like grass; 

he flourishes like a flower of the field; 

 16  for the wind passes over it, and it is gone, 

and its place knows it no more. 

 17  But the steadfast love of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear him, 

and his righteousness to children’s children, 

 18  to those who keep his covenant 

and remember to do his commandments. 

 19  The Lord has established his throne in the heavens, 

and his kingdom rules over all. 

 20  Bless the Lord, O you his angels, 

you mighty ones who do his word, 

obeying the voice of his word! 

 21  Bless the Lord, all his hosts, 

his ministers, who do his will! 

 22  Bless the Lord, all his works, 

in all places of his dominion. 

  Bless the Lord, O my soul! 

This psalm starts and ends with the same phrase, ‘Bless the Lord’, and the Hebrew word used for bless in this passage is בָּרֲכִ֣י (ba·ra·chi) which translates to kneel. Kneeling demonstrates humility, so when people kneel before God they are recognising Him as the Higher one, and themselves as lowly. Blessing God can only be done through humbling oneself before Him, and then giving Him praise, gratitude and love. The humility comes first, otherwise how can you truly worship God, unless you can recognise how great He is above all things, even yourself?

David seems to be writing this psalm to encourage himself to show humility to God in every area of his life, not just some of it, not just on a Sunday or just outside the home or just when i am not at a sports event. David wants to live with integrity and in humility to God always, to live his life in recognition that there is an awesome, mighty Lord who is above even him, the king of Israel. David, a strong, powerful king and warrior wants to humble himself before the Lord his God. He is not bothered by his own status, because no matter his rank in society, there is One who deserves being knelt before even by the highest worldly authority. Therefore David calls to mind the magnitude of what God has done and continues to do, things that only He can do:

‘forgives all your iniquity’

‘heals all your disease’

‘redeems your life from the pit’

‘crowns you with steadfast love and mercy’

‘satisfies you with good’

‘works righteousness and justice for all who are oppressed.’

‘made know his ways’

‘abounding in steadfast love’

‘shows compassion to those who fear him’

‘he knows our frame’

‘everlasting to everlasting’

‘established his throne in the heavens’

‘his kingdom rules over all’

What a list! All absolute truths about Our God. So, even when you are feeling flustered, overwhelmed, annoyed, hurt, disappointed or bored, all of this is still absolutely true about God! He has been and always will be; forgiving, healer, steadfast, desiring to come close, good, compassionate, understanding, eternal and in charge! David also comments within this psalm, ‘forget not all his benefits'. The list above is not exhaustive, it does not fully describe God, His character of deeds, they are not ALL of his benefits. Have you ever made a list of God's attributes? What would your list look like? Maybe you would have some of the same things on it, maybe you’d have some different ones. It doesn’t really matter, the important thing is that you do recall who God is, and recognise that He is worthy to bless. He is worthy of all of the angels, hosts and all of creation to bow before Him. Are you living in humility to God today?

Are you the kind of person God wants to spend time with?

Psalm 15:1–5 (ESV):  

1  O Lord, who shall sojourn in your tent? 

Who shall dwell on your holy hill? 

2  He who walks blamelessly and does what is right 

and speaks truth in his heart; 

3  who does not slander with his tongue 

and does no evil to his neighbour, 

nor takes up a reproach against his friend; 

4  in whose eyes a vile person is despised, 

but who honours those who fear the Lord; 

who swears to his own hurt and does not change; 

5  who does not put out his money at interest 

and does not take a bribe against the innocent. 

He who does these things shall never be moved. 

This psalm shows us the type of person God wishes to spend time with. There are specific characteristics that God is looking for in those he invites into His tent. These attributes demonstrate the character and integrity of a person and the morals that they live by. 

So, who does God want being involved in His life - what kind of person does He invite into His town and even His tent?

From this psalm we can see that God values and desires to have time with those who;

• Do the right thing. Both openly and in secret. (V2)
• Are honest. Even about how they are really feeling. They say what they mean and mean what they say (v2)
• Do not speak badly of others - no gossip, accusing, or going along with what everyone else says (even if you think it is true) (v3)
• Do not cause harm to others, or do/say things that will only benefit themselves but not anyone else. (v3)
• Respects and honours his friends even when he disagrees with them and their actions. Someone who does not express criticism, disapproval or disappointment in those they care about with other people. (v3)
• Is mindful of whom they admire. (v4) Someone who does not extol or promote a person who does not follow God. Who in fact hates the evil within them, no matter what they have achieved. Yet always speaks well of and honours those who follow God. Even when they go awry or do not seem impressive. (v4)
• Admit it when they are in pain - whether that's emotional, mental or physical, and still keep following God. They remember who they are and who they belong to and so do not allow disappointment or discomfort change their behaviour. These people are genuine. No matter what life throws at them they keep going in faith with no pretence. (v4)
• Do not make a profit out of people less fortunate than themselves.
• Accepts no bribery.

Are you this kind of person? Do you have the characteristics of someone God wants to spend time with?

Overall, it seems that God is looking for genuine people. Not perfect ones. This psalm, interestingly, does not say anything about being free from sin, it is all about how you treat others and how honest you are with them (and yourself). Although, a perfect God cannot tolerate sin and anyone who would want this invite into God's presence would be aware and conscious of that. That is why Jesus lived and died - to mend the brokenness and clean the sin that gets in the way of us having a relationship with God. This psalm is written for those who accept God's forgiveness and want to get closer to God. The purpose then of this psalm is to show those who wish to be more intimate with God what He is looking for. 

God is looking for; genuine, honest, open, kind people of integrity. When He looks at you, what will he find? Are you living as someone God wants to spend time with? 

an excellent spirit

As we consider Daniel’s life, we can see that he had times when he was valued and revered, and times when he was forgotten and overlooked. We first met Daniel when he was a young teenage exile thrust into leadership in the Babylonian empire. Over time he was promoted and trusted with solving king Nebuchadnezzar’s problems, Daniel also had responsibility in the kingdom. Then, years later, during Belshazzar’s reign, Daniel is unknown. Daniel went from a position of prominence to oblivion. The influence and responsibility he once had disappeared, and the Belshazzar does not even know who Daniel is. He is only informed about Daniel in his last hours on earth, yet Daniel is still introduced to him as someone of excellent character and capability, and proves his God-given ability to continue to solve dilemma, he has not changed. Next comes Darius, (the conqueror of Babylon), and we find out in the following verses his impression of Daniel; 

It pleased Darius to set over the kingdom 120 satraps, to be throughout the whole kingdom; *2*and over them three high officials, of whom Daniel was one, to whom these satraps should give account, so that the king might suffer no loss. *3*Then this Daniel became distinguished above all the other high officials and satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him. And the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom.

Daniel 6:1–6:3.

Darius again discovers the 'excellent spirit' that is in Daniel that Belshazzar was ignorant of, and Darius commends and elevates Daniel's position once again. From prominence in his youth, to a substantial time of oblivion from public servitude, to again a period of recognition and responsibility when he is approaching 90 years old! 

Yet, Daniel’s character and faith had not changed. He is a man of God from chapter 1 throughout his life, even during the overlooked years he remains faithful to God, as when he is introduced to Belshazzar, it is as a man with ‘an excellent spirit, knowledge and understanding’, so clearly his reputation and character had not changed, just the position that he was given by men had. 

We see from this account of Daniel’s life that wherever Daniel was, and whatever job role he had, he was still a man who had ‘an excellent spirit’. Is that how you are known wherever you are, whatever you are doing?

How we behave, how we regard God should not change even when situations in life do. God does not change, but man's opinion and esteem of us can, just like it did with Daniel. Some people will appreciate the God-given abilities we have, others will reject and hate it.

Daniel stood out because he was a follower of God. No matter where he was or what he was doing, he was faithful and committed to serving God from his youth through to old age. This made him different in how he handled himself and other people. It was something outstanding and undefinable to the rest of the world, so some accepted it and others rejected it. Nebuchadnezzar did not understand it, but he made use of the wisdom and insight of Daniel, Belshazzar rejected and ignored it, and Darius put to work the ‘excellent spirit’ within him. It is the same for you. People will either accept you for who you are, or they will reject you. If you are living a God-fueled life, do not be surprised by it, but remain faithful. Jesus tells us we will be rejected by some on account of our faith (Luke 10:16 ‘the one who rejects you rejects me’). It is not really us that is accepted or rejected, but the one whom we accept as the Living God. Daniel experienced it, and if you are serious about your faith you will experience it too. When we live our lives for God, it is acceptable to some and repugnant to others. It is the Jesus in you that they are accepting or rejecting. So do not despair if you are being overlooked or rejected. Take comfort in the fact that this happens for the glory of God, because you are displaying Jesus to people and not everyone can handle it, and take inspiration from the life of Daniel also lived unnoticed and unappreciated - but he did not fail to continue following God, to continue to be the man of ‘excellent spirit’ that he was. 

The truth is that when we live for God, we cease to live for mankind, or even for ourselves. When we truly have ‘an excellent spirit’, it does not matter which opportunities come or go, we will still have our character, and our God. We take that wherever we are and whatever we do, are you a person of excellent spirit?

The king, the chief guard and the exile

 

Then Arioch brought in Daniel before the king in haste and said thus to him: “I have found among the exiles from Judah a man who will make known to the king the interpretation.” *26*The king declared to Daniel, whose name was Belteshazzar, “Are you able to make known to me the dream that I have seen and its interpretation?” *27*Daniel answered the king and said, “No wise men, enchanters, magicians, or astrologers can show to the king the mystery that the king has asked, *28*but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries, and he has made known to King Nebuchadnezzar what will be in the latter days. Your dream and the visions of your head as you lay in bed are these: *29*To you, O king, as you lay in bed came thoughts of what would be after this, and he who reveals mysteries made known to you what is to be. *30*But as for me, this mystery has been revealed to me, not because of any wisdom that I have more than all the living, but in order that the interpretation may be made known to the king, and that you may know the thoughts of your mind. 

Daniel 2:25–30.

In the book of Daniel, we have already met these three characters, but not all in the same place at the same time. It is interesting to see how they interact, as it reveals the content of their characters when we see them together. So, today we are going to see what we notice about each of them;

First up we have the Captain of the king’s guard, Arioch. He is mentioned a few verses previously as he rushes to carry out the kings command to kill all the wise men, and now he is rushing to bring in Daniel. It seems this man knows the importance of his position, and he is anxious to fulfil it. The role Arioch has, has become who he is rather than just a job. He rushes around in self-importance as if it all depends on him, the kings problems are his problems, and he feels responsible for sorting it all out. Probably for good reason, as he recognises the reality that if he doesn’t do what the king wants, he will join the fate of the ‘wise men’ he’s had to do away with already. 

Arioch clearly finds his value in how well he completes his job. It has become who he is rather than a part of his identity. Now, don’t get me wrong, being in charge of the kings bodyguard is an important role, but have you ever met someone who seems to take their job a bit too seriously? As in their job becomes their life, rather than just a part of it? Someone who defines themselves by their success or failure? This is how Arioch is portrayed. He is dedicated to his role and to the king, and he rushes about trying to do his best for his boss, without really thinking through if it is the best idea or if the decisions are morally right.

It takes someone like Daniel to slow him down and consider what is actually in the best interests of those involved, including the king.

We also see the self-importance and pride that Arioch has, for in the introduction he gives he says, “I have found from among the exiles  from Judah a man who will make known to the king the interpretation”. I don’t remember reading that Arioch was on the look out to solve the mystery of the kings dream, do you? The last I recall was that Arioch was following the murderous plan to slaughter all the wise men who may have been able to help! It was only when Daniel challenged Arioch in the urgency that Arioch slowed down a bit. In fact, Daniel approached him, and asked for time., offering a solution.  Arioch didn’t go out searching for an answer to the king’s problem, instead he went out searching for those to kill. However, now, he is quite happy to take the credit for ‘finding’ Daniel and being a part of the solution! In order to look good in the kings eyes he’s quite happy to take the credit. I am sure we can all probably think of those who take credit where it is not due. Maybe that’s you, and you need a Daniel to pick you up on it.

The next person who speaks is the King, Nebuchadnezzar. Before this interaction we have already deducted how he is feeling; the king is sleep-deprived, angry, feels distrust towards the other ‘wise men’ and is concerned about being deceived. I doubt his condition has improved since he spoke with the enchanters, astrologers and astronomers. Yet, he gives Daniel a chance. Eventhough he has ordered the murder of all the people society considers wise (and Daniel is among them), he still allows Daniel to have a go. Perhaps because he is so desperate for a solution that he has just the smallest amount of hope that this troublesome dream can be solved. So he asks, “Are you able to make known to me the dream that I have seen and its interpretation?”. 

I would like to know the tone in which this is asked, wouldn’t you?  Is the king asking if Daniel can do this thing because he is astonished that this young man before him claims to have more understanding than the well seasoned ‘wise men’ he has already called upon? Is he asking through disappointment and annoyance? Or even in an exhausted, exasperated manner? We do not know how Nebuchadnezzar asked this question, and we are not meant to know, because actually it does not matter. Daniel does not rise to the manner in which the question is posed, but simply answers it. 

Next, we shall consider the final character in this scene, the young man, the ‘exile’, Daniel (Belteshazzar) . He comes into the king’s presence, without any ceremony. In fact, he comes in great humility. He is the only one out of the three that demonstrates humility - and he’s the one with the answers!

From the start of this interaction, Daniel acknowledges, that he is, like the others the king has called upon, merely human and that no human being can help with the king’s ‘mystery’.  (I am sure that didn’t improve the kings mood!) However he also acknowledges that there is a God in heaven capable of revealing mysteries, and Daniel has accepted his part in being a messenger from God to the king in order for Nebuchadnezzar to better understand himself. 

Daniel is aware and unashamed of his usefulness as a messenger and is content to be the go-between. He makes it clear that he is merely a messenger from God to the king, that he has no understanding of these things themselves, but that God has used him so that the king can have better understanding. He takes no credit. He gives all responsibility and honour to God - How different to how Arioch enters the room! 

Really, after Daniel’s admission, it is kind of surprising that the king carries on listening! Yet, Daniel continues, in confidence, and assures the king that God has imparted to him, ‘the thoughts of your mind’. Daniel recognises that this has been revealed to himself and his friends, not because they are more intelligent or respected or powerful than anyone else, but because the have sought God for the solution. They asked for the impossible, and got it, and it was not for them to keep to themselves, but the revelation that was received was to hep soothe a troubled mind and reveal something of what was to come.  

So, what can we learn from these three people? Has anything stood out to you in the way they bear themselves? Have you been inspired by how Daniel responds under pressure, amongst those deemed ‘greater’ than himself?

Can you detect any of the characteristics of these three men in your own life? If so, pray. Whether it is in gratitude or repentance. 

For me - I see that God needs those who are willing to step up and step out. No matter who they, or anyone else, considers them to be. We all have a purpose and we are all created with a piece of God inside of us, so we should not be ashamed of that. We also should not be ashamed of admitting that this is how God has made us - of giving the glory and credit to God like Daniel does. I shall endeavour to be more intentional in that.

Who is Jesus?

Just from the opening lines of Hebrews, we can see the richness of who Jesus is. It is by no means an exhaustive list, but here are the things we can pick out from the very start of this book in Hebrews 1:1-4:

Jesus is;
God’s son
Appointed
Heir of all things
Creator
Radiant
Glory of God
Exact imprint
Upholder of the universe
Powerful
Purifier
Majestic
Superior to angels
Excellent

Number 1, Jesus is God’s son. A son has a duty to follow his father, to reflect who his father is and carry out the father’s work and continue his reputation. It carries a responsibility and expectation that seeing the son means you see aspects of the father. As a result of Jesus’ sonship, many of the following attributes listed can be ascribed - like the fact that Jesus has been appointed by the father.

The appointment Jesus received means he has been; given authority, entrusted and ordained. Jesus not only carries the Father’s attributes, as the consequence of being God’s son, but he has also been commissioned. Jesus has work to do.

For Jesus, the job he was commissioned with was no easy task. His duty was to draw God and people together again. To bridge the gap between divinity and unsacred man. To breach the wide chasm of the holy, pure God, and sinful mankind. What a job! His father entrusted him to carry out this task, knowing that Jesus is the only one able to do it. No-one else bears the; characteristics, capabilities or commission to achieve this task. No-one can work hard enough, try hard enough or be enough to reach God without Jesus. God knew Jesus could and would do what was required. He knew Jesus carried the weight of sonship and his appointment. Only Jesus could bridge the gap, even if it would result in torture, abandonment and death.

Doesn’t that sound strange?
The fact that although Jesus is, ‘the heir of all things’, he suffered. He bled, he died, he felt pain and loneliness. Jesus -  the one who deserves complete honour, respect and adoration, the one who owns all of creation, the one who has unlimited power - was still living under duty and obedience!

Jesus has all power and authority, possession of the whole universe, yet he acknowledges and accepts the will of the father. Jesus still did things he didn’t want to do, he still acted in obedience even though all of creation can’t exist without him - What a contrast! A powerful, mighty, creator, and an obedient, loving, sacrificial son.
Jesus not only demonstrates his power through mighty works, miracles or creation, but he also displays incredible power through his obedience, sacrifice and forgiveness. No wonder that God’s glory is demonstrated in him!
God’s presence is perceived and felt when Jesus is present - the beauty, perfection, wonder and magnificence of God is shown through Jesus. Many people who met him know he was different, the people, the outsiders, those in power and authority, even the religious people realised Jesus was different - there was no denying it. No-one could quite pinpoint his ‘otherness’, but it was clear that he was different to all other people. That must of been because he showed the glory of God - no-one had seen or experienced it before. It was weird and different, inspiring and scary. Jesus could show the glory of God because he is, ‘the exact imprint’ of God. Jesus is an exact reflection of God, not a fake or a cheap alternative, but the genuine article - 100% God. Total holiness, power, goodness and righteousness walking the Earth. Jesus showed who God is all the time. He, as the; son, anointed, heir, creator, imprint and glory of God, is also the one who, ‘upholds the universe by the word of his power’. Wow! Not only was Jesus involved in creation, but this phrase shows that Jesus is continually sustaining creation. Jesus is interested and invested the continuance of what He has made, and still works to uphold his creation. He is just as interested and invested in your life now as he ever was - are you as interested and invested in him?

So, to recap - Jesus is God’s son, 100%, He has authority and power. He was around at the beginning of the universe, and he is still involved in it’s functioning. So how does this effect us?
The very next phrase answers this as Jesus has made, ‘purification for sins’. Not through some ritual, but this obedient son of God, this 100% God-man, the anointed creator made it possible for us to be cleansed and restored relationship with God. He did this through love. He loves God and us more than himself, so this powerful and majestic Jesus gave up all he had in order to give you the chance to know freedom from all you’ve done wrong. Jesus is not a distant eternal entity, but completely invested in all that he has made, and that includes you. He is so invested in fact that he willingly gave himself over to be beaten, tortured, disowned and separated from his Father in order to give you the opportunity to see his Father. Jesus was killed because he wanted you to know something of the purity he knows. To give you the chance to know the Father he knows. You don’t have to live anymore with the stigma or reputation of your wrongs if you accept that Jesus has got it covered. He took all your punishment to allow you to walk free. Are you?

Then, after Jesus had completed the job, just to make sure that we realise the awesomeness of who Jesus is - he goes and sits on the heavenly royal throne, right next to his Father!
Jesus now sits in heaven, in his rightful place. Surrounded by heavenly beings and angels whom he is greater than.
People can have an awe about angels, we hear accounts of people meeting them, both past and present and we are impressed and probably a little jealous! Yet, these heavenly creatures, these messengers, protectors who sit in the presence of God are much less than Jesus. Jesus is, ‘much superior’ and ‘more excellent’ than they. Let us treat with reverence and awe the name of Jesus as those in heaven do. Let us be more inspired by Jesus than we are by anything else.

So, today, consider the power of the name of Jesus, what does he mean to you? What should he mean to you? How does your acknowledgment of who he is effect your life?

who to trust?

Throughout Esther, we see the king give his trust to three people; Haman, Mordecai and Esther. Yet, how do these people gain this position and influence in the king’s life?

Haman won favour by being a good, ruthless warrior. He was a successful soldier. A king doesn't notice everyone in his army, so there must of been something about Haman that stood out. He must of achieved fantastic feats in order for the king to even know his name let alone put him into a position of honour and trust. Haman’s succession to second-in-command seems to be purely based on his strategic advances and battlefield skills. The king probably considered that as this Haman is fighting so hard for the kingdom, he must really care about it and it’s leader - a logical summation. Haman was championed and rewarded for his success, so he gained greater favour and greater trust with the king, until he became the right-hand man. Haman then had the king’s ear and could influence decisions that effected the whole kingdom. Haman, to the king seemed trustworthy, he worked and fought hard, why would he do that unless he was really invested? He grew in confidence and in favour with the king as he worked his way up, and he worked his way into the king's trust.

Then there’s Mordecai. Once overlooked, he gradually becomes noticed when his previous deeds are suddenly recalled. It is then that the true status of the man as a loyal defender of the throne is revealed. He has, for years, continued living in obscurity as a loyal scribe. All the while he has maintained his character and continued to faithfully live and work, unknown by name to the majority within the palace. Then he is propelled into centre-stage of palace life! Suddenly he is remembered from some past effort, and accelerated into the place of greatest trust with the king. The king comes to recognise that this man has demonstrated confidence, loyalty and patience in his kingdom. He has faithfully served the kingdom without a murmur of discontent, even though he’s been overlooked. The king comes to understand that this is man worthy of great trust. Haman had worked hard for years obtain it, yet Mordecai had just worked faithfully for years, unseen and unknown by many, when suddenly the king discovers the commitment of this very man to his kingdom, and his very life. The king turns from not knowing his name, to propelling Mordecai into second-in-command, the position of greatest trust in the kingdom. Mordecai was a faithful fellow, minding his own business, doing his best in life to do the right things although often overlooked, he was respected by the people (so don't be afraid if your acts of kindness or faithfulness are overlooked, the King above sees them all.)

Lastly, we consider Esther. She gained her position of trust with the king through a type of beauty contest. She had to compete with many women to satisfy the king and be noticed by him. It was then she was chosen as a wife, a position of some trust, but she had to depend on the king’s desire to see her before she could even speak to him. She had to depend on his satisfaction in her in order to win any opportunity to even approach him. We may think the value and position of a wife is one of great trust, but Esther had to use all her feminine wiles in order to even get to speak to the king. She had to prepare feasts and wine, entertainment and conversation in order to even be heard. Yet, at the time of Haman’s deception becoming revealed, she too is propelled into a position of trust, just like Mordecai. The king realises his own regard for her, his desire to protect her, and she gains trust to equally share the task of protecting the Jews alongside Mordecai. She is moved from merely existing in the palace to a place of prominence. She gains the king’s trust, because she is wise in how she approaches the king. She worked towards his interests and worked to win his favour. She put the desires of the king before she presented her own.

So, how does the king determine whom he trusts? It must be hard to decipher who is genuine when you’re royalty. Many will just ‘suck up’ because they want the power, influence and gifts of being in your favour. It must of been hard for Ahasuerus. How could he determine if Haman or Mordecai, or even Esther weren’t after their own agendas rather than his interest? He must of  been swamped with do-gooders, with those that seemed keen to please him, but many probably did it out of fear, or for their own promotion. Who is genuinely interested in the king?

I would imagine many reading this would wonder about the relevance to their own lives, as how many of you are kings and queens?!
Yet, it does challenge unto look at those we place in positions of trust in our lives. Who occupies your time and who do you speak to about the condition of your heart and circumstances? Who are you in relationship with that you can trust?Are there unseen, faithful people that you overlook? Are their Mordecai's that you barely pay attention to but are always there for you? who have stood the test of time and have shown their faithfulness time and again? Maybe this year is a time to start to show your appreciation of them. Are there any Haman's that are about their own thing that maybe you need to draw away from? Do you have any Esther's that show genuine friendship by really knowing how to put a smile on your face? Maybe this New Year is a time to reflect on your relationships. Who are those you should be appreciating? Who is worthy of your trust?

Banish the Haman's, Appreiate the Mordecais and enjoy the Esthers.

Be more Mordecai

Last week we looked at the character of Haman who we meet in the book of Esther, a man who seems to be a product of his environment - consumed by his own selfish desires, just like the king, Ahasuerus. There is another man that is involved in life at Susa, and within the palace, this man is known as Mordecai, and as we shall see, he displays different characteristics to Ahasuerus and Haman.

All of these men are surrounded by the opulence available in Susa, where even the palace walls and floor sparkle with riches. Mordecai and Haman have both witnessed how this kingdom works; that selfishness and ruthlessness are an acceptable means to an end, and wealth and authority are treasured above all things.
Both men also work in and around the palace and seem yo have some kind of authority, they have the same work colleagues and the same boss. They are within the same environment, with the same culture encompassing them, and the same people surrounding them - that’s a lot of ‘sameness’! So, why are these two men so different?

They are both surrounded by the same influences yet their desires and character are very different. Haman is concerned with his own affairs, and his desire is to get as much as he can however he can. Mordecai, on the other hand, is concerned with the affairs of others - he has helped bring up Esther, encourages and advises her even as an adult, and he protects the king’s life. Unlike Haman, Mordecai’s desires are not for himself, but for the welfare of others.

Mordecai demonstrates kindness to all, even to people that do not seem to deserve it. He is an upright man in a wonky society. He has not become enticed or corrupted by his environment - how is that possible?
He has maintained a consistency of character and a contentment in his position, whatever that may be. He does not seem to have a lust for money or power. In fact, he is the first person we meet in this book that has shown some loyalty and compassion.
He maintains his loyalty to his kindred, the Jews, yet also displays loyalty to the Persian king, even to the point of saving his life (Esther 2:21-23).
Then, despite the fact that Mordecai has saved the king’s life, he gets no recognition for it. He remains relatively unnoticed and unrecognised. Have you ever felt like that? He went unnoticed even when he’d uncovered an assassination plot! Yet, what was Mordecai’s response? He did not complain, he did not become bitter or disheartened - He simply carried on with life. He went to work as normal, went around the city as normal and remained loyal, as normal.
Is that your response when you’ve been unnoticed or overlooked?
It is so easy for us to become angry, resentful and bitter especially when we put ourselves out and receive nothing in return, yet doesn’t that show a lack of contentment within ourselves? A need for approval from others, a need for recognition? Mordecai displayed an assurance in who he is rather than what he can do, simply by dong nothing different, he remained consistent and contented. Can you imagine the difference if you acted the same in similar circumstances?

Then, as we read on in Esther into chapter 3; we see that Mordecai admits his heritage - he is a Jew. He acknowledges in that admission, that there is one true God, and that He is the one he bows down to.
Then, of course, he comes up again some kind of prejudice at work as his workmates tell their boss Haman about Mordecai’s faith. His faith means there’s a limit to his actions, there’s a manner in which he lives and works that has clearly stood out to them because they’ve mentioned it - they wouldn’t bother if Mordecai did the same as them. They recognised something different about him and weren’t sure how to handle it, so they told their boss. They realised that Mordecai had limitations to his work, they realised he wasn’t going to do what was expected if it meant compromise.
That’s an easy situation for us to be in, a position of prejudice or compromise in our workplaces - what do you do in those situations? Do you go along with everyone else? Do you allow your workmates to question your motives? Do you make deliberate faith-choices even when it gets a bit scary in the workplace for you?
This was Mordecai’s situation. He’d come face to face with compromise, and he put his faith first even though it meant he would come up against some kind of prejudice. It would of been easier in the moment to just go along with what everyone else was doing, but he knew it would go against what he believes and values. It’s easy to dismiss our faith when we come under pressure or feel we have to go against the crowd at work. We often think it is easier to compromise, to prevent rocking the boat, but, as Mordecai realised, there is no point compromising your integrity - you have to live with that for the rest of your life. I know I’ve compromised before - I thought it was expected and the easier way out. However, the feelings of guilt and that I’m not a ‘good enough’ christian have plagued me. Don’t live like that. It’s ok to be more like Mordecai. It’s ok to stand out for what you believe, yes criticism will come, temptation will arise, but what will your response be? Will you compromise your integrity like Haman, or continue to be consistent and content like Mordecai?

Haman had learned to compromise his character, everyone else was doing the same and he was influenced by others and their expectations as well as his lust for greater wealth and power. He went along the majority, and he didn’t become the man who plans an extermination of a whole race overnight, it probably started with something silly like stealing a pen. The thought process can be that everyone does it, so it’s ok, it’s budgetted for, and does anyone really care or notice. Maybe, or maybe not, but what’s the cost to your integrity?

Mordecai, on the other hand, worked hard, worked well, was loyal and relatively unnoticed until he started not to compromise, not to go along with the flow. He decided to stand up, to not allow others expectations to influence his ideals of right or wrong. His faith ruled his decisions, not the culture or other people, or even concern for his own safety or employment.

Are you overwhelmed by the concerns of the crowd?
Does your faith influence your decisions and actions at work?
Is there some way you need to be more like Mordecai?

There is greater freedom in being like Mordecai, Haman’s life choices led to death - where are your choices leading you?

Are you favoured?

When we consider the story of Esther, we usually consider it a triumphant story, a story of a heroine, a story of triumph and freedom. Yet here, at the beginning of the book, we hear that Esther is an orphan, she’s been taken in by her cousin as a daughter (he’s clearly much older than her).  We also discover that Mordecai and Esther are Jews historically means that their family in generations past were once exiled to this place. Therefore they are not exactly welcomed or appreciated where they live, hence they are wary of telling others their true heritage.
Do you ever feel like that? Like an outsider? Like you don’t belong? A bit of an underdog? Maybe you are. Maybe your family heritage is questionable, perhaps your upbringing wasn’t conventional, or the opportunities presented to you are few. What we can learn from Esther is that it’s ok to have a bit of a disadvantage, because that doesn’t effect who you are or who you can be.

As we read further on into chapter 2, we see this strange competition to become the queen. Quite a strange affair we may think according to our society today, but not so strange in these times in Persia. Every beautiful young virgin is brought into the king’s living area, beautified and then presented to the king for one night only in order to impress him, they are then put into another area to live the rest of their days unless the king calls upon them again. I can’t even imagine what that would be like - No family or friends around, only the other discarded women of the king that didn’t impress him enough, having to live the whole of the rest of your life in this place. No chance of escape, marriage or family of your own, just living a life ‘on hold’ for the king in case he should want to see you again, but he probably won’t. It’s sad isn’t it, most of us probably see it as quite demoralising. Yet it is into this environment we find Esther entering. She, along with any others, are selected as potential wives for the king.
What a degrading position to be put into as a beautiful young woman, basically prepped and prepared to sleep with a man who most probably will never speak to you again, yet I doubt these women had any choice. It was a nation-wide selection process and these women had been chosen and were brought to live in the confines of the king’s harem.

Then we see Esther, having entered into this situation that seems desperate, immoral and lonely, gaining favour with the man in charge. There is something about Esther that stands out, that rises above those around her and something in her character that establishes her as a favoured one in the harem. How does she do that?
Well, we know from Chapter 2 that she was a Jew - a believer in God. Was it her dependence on God that enabled her to gain favour?
Esther was honoured and appreciated even in this debauched environment, and maybe that is exactly why she won favour because she was someone who had faith in God amongst a whole lot of immorality.

Are you honoured and favoured by those around you no matter the circumstances you are in? Are you one that’s noticed? Are you someone that stands out because of your character?

Prosperity and Adversity

'In the day of prosperity be joyful, and in the day of adversity consider: God has made the one as well as the other, so that man may not find out anything that will be after him.' 
Ecclesiastes 7:14.

Solomon seems to like to make comparisons with opposing ideas. We have had death and life, mourning and celebration, now we have prosperity and adversity. Times of celebration and success versus times of trouble and struggle.

Solomon points out that prosperity and adversity BOTH come from God. We don’t really like to think of it like that do we? We quite happily accept that prosperity - all the good things, come from God, but adversity, all the bad things, too? God is good, right? So why would He allow the struggle and strife?

How do you feel about the fact that God brings success and calamity? Prosperity AND adversity?

We can see this demonstrated in the book of Job. Job, a faithful follower of God, devoted to Him even, suffers great calamity as his whole family dies, he loses all of his material possessions and then suffers physically too.
We see a conversation occurring about Job where the devil and God chat about him, and God gives permission for the devil to carry out these adverse times for Job. God has given authority for these things to happen. Why?
Why does God do that?

God ordains success and failure. He allows adversity as well as prosperity.
How does that fit with your perception of who God is?

Does your perception of God change whether you are in times of adversity or prosperity?
We tend to thank God for one and pray to get out of the other. We all want a relatively easy, happy and successful life.  We don’t want to suffer like Job, we don’t want to be alone, abandoned by friends, poor and hurting.
Yet, if you are, does it mean you have any less faith than anyone else? Does it mean that God has abandoned you? Doesn’t love or care for you?

The road to prosperity can often come through adversity.

How do we become prosperous? Is it by receiving the good things all the time? Getting our own way? Living the dream? Isn’t there some suffering that usually comes along before a breakthrough?

Well, let’s go back to Job, he had more than his fair share of adversity don’t you think? Yet, he held on, he kept his faith, I don’t know if I would of come through as assured of my own integrity and God’s existence as Job did. He truly held on to faith through the most appalling times. We can read the whole book in a matter of hours, but the whole season of life must of spanned years. Maybe you read this today and can relate to Job - years of strife and struggle with you holding on. If that is you - WELL DONE. You have achieved faith in greater measures than some of us will ever know. Like Job, you have endured and overcome great trials, and you have stuck with it.
Your time of prosperity will come - Job had all things restored in greater measure than he had before. God increased Job and his ministry because of his faithfulness. Yes, Job had a wobble and questioned God - he had a moan - who wouldn’t in that situation?! I admire Job. He endured, he questioned himself and his faith, yet he always knew the goodness of God was a reality. He grew in his understanding of who he was and who God is through it all. We know the end story of Job, but we don’t now the end story of our adversity. So, how will you handle it?
Will you hold on even if suffering lasts for years and you lose all you have? Will you trust in God even when He doesn’t seem to answer? Will you continue to believe in Him if God makes you go through it rather than escape it?

Times of prosperity are great, they are enjoyable and feel fulfilling, yet it’s the times of adversity that show the true colours of our character. There are areas in which we all need to grow and we know it, adversity is a great time to be stretched and grown even if we don’t like it. Adversity teaches us things, and can develop our faith if we set our heart to depend on God no matter what. Job did. He did not give up believing, he held firm and he was rewarded. Times of adversity can strengthen our faith, yes we have to persevere, we have to trust, we have to make the difficult decisions sometimes, but the end will be worth it for we DO serve a good God. He does want what s best for you, and sometimes that’s not having everything that you want. Sometimes that’s you being stretched, torn apart and rebuilt again. It’s painful, yet it is also a time of great richness. A richness of growth and dependence not on our own self, but on the One who sees the beginning and the end.

God brings prosperity and adversity, He knows what He is doing. We need prosperity, times of success, achievement and joy - we can turn our happiness into praise and gratitude, and we also need times of dependence and being at the end of ourselves otherwise what is our faith?

So in, ‘prosperity be joyful’ - appreciate the goodness, success, wealth given to you, be grateful for it and acknowledge it. It is nothing to be ashamed of, but it is to be enjoyed.
In, ‘adversity consider’ - contemplate the purpose of this time, your responsibility in it, what you should do. What part of your character is being reshaped right now? Is there something you are learning about yourself or God?

A Good Name

‘A good name is better than precious ointment’ 
Ecclesiastes 7:1

A 'good name' - what does that mean?
A name is more than an identifier - a tag or label to set you apart from others.
For the Jews, in the time of Solomon, a name signified something of who they are and what they will be. In 1 Samuel 25:25 it says, ‘as his name is, so is he’ - a name is about the essence of who you are, not just what you are called. It is more than an identifier, it depicts elements of character, personality and potential.

So, to be of ‘good name’ is not just about having a nice name with a meaning or story. It is far more foundational. Being of ‘good name’ is connected with the basis of who we are - our character, reputation and potential. Our name emanates meaning beyond a title. It is not just a tag but a fundamental exhibitiion of who we are.

Your name carries significance. 

Not just because your parents chose it, or because it has a a sweet story attached, but because your character, reputation and potential are attached to it. It may be that you’re not sure about the meaning of your name.
My name, ‘Natalie’  is attached to the words birth and Christmas Day (I was born in April!). So, I may be excused from thinking that my name is irrelevant, as I clearly wasn’t born on Christmas and I have never given birth! Maybe I was just given the name because my parents’ thought it sounded nice.
Yet, this verse tells us there is more to it than that, as does the verse in Samuel. We have our names for a purpose. They are intended to demonstrate something of who we are and what we can become. I do not know how I will live up to my name, but I have been given it and maybe there are things that will be given birth to through my life (I hope so).

It’s not all about the actual name definitions found in every baby book, but to have a good name includes having a good, moral, upright, and admired character. Solomon is saying a good name is highly valued, precious, significant, they are ‘precious ointment’ - something valuable and curative. Our names should do people good when they hear them, they should leave others with a pleasant aroma.

What does your name say about you? Have you ever considered the connotations people will have to your name after meeting you? Does your name seem precious to those who utter it?