Bless others and bless God

 Psalm 134:1–3 (ESV):  

1  Come, bless the Lord, all you servants of the Lord, 

who stand by night in the house of the Lord! 

 2  Lift up your hands to the holy place 

and bless the Lord! 

 3  May the Lord bless you from Zion, 

he who made heaven and earth! 

This is a call for those who love, follow, and dedicate their lives in service to God to continue to do so. To carry on worshipping and praying, to keep on meeting together and blessing God in what they do. There are those who, even of a night, when no-one else is around or notices, are seeking God. These are true believers and worshippers, they live as servants of God, and bless Him in how they live. They bless God through their actions and the things they do not say and do because their hearts, minds and souls are His. Are you a servant of the Lord like this?

An invitation is how this psalm begins. An invitation for the servants of God to ‘Come, bless the Lord’. How do you ‘bless’ God? The word interpreted as ‘bless’ in this psalm means to bow the knee. To really bless and honour God, you have to; submit to, follow, and obey God. Not just sometimes, or when you gather with other believers, but all of the time, even in the dark hours when no-one else is around. This is what ‘servants of the Lord’, the committed and obedient believers, do. It is interesting that the psalmist acknowledges that even these dedicated people still require an invite to ‘come, bless the Lord’. You would have thought that they already are! Yet, have you ever thought that even the most dedicated God-follower that you know, needs a bit of encouragement sometimes? Even the most committed, kind, god-fearing and obedient people need spurring on. You do not know what happens behind the closed doors of others lives, or in their hearts and minds, so it never hurts to encourage or invite even those you admire in faith to continue to worship, pray and gather. We all need inspiration, reminding, inviting and spurring on at times in order to continue worshipping, and keep the good, godly patterns in our lives. Those who are wholeheartedly committed to following God need inspiration and encouragement too. Even those responsible for; oversight, maintenance, pastoral care, worship leading, and hospitality, in fact anyone who serves God can do with the inspiration to keep their passion for God and their commitment to Him. Life can wear believers down sometimes and people can become despondent or distracted. So do not be afraid to encourage passion and obedience in others, even the leaders and servants of God. It will do them good, even if you think they are doing alright. Keep encouraging them, let them know how their service is appreciated, that you admire their obedience, perseverance or whatever else it is. Let them know their service to God is building the Kingdom of God, and they are valued, and that they are invited to enjoy God's presence and the company of God's people. Leadership is hard, it is a great responsibility, and there is an enemy that will do his best to take the leaders and servants of God down, so do what you can to inspire and encourage them, to let them know that they are not just leading the family, but they are a part of it too. Is there someone that springs to your mind whom you could invite to 'Come, bless the Lord' today? It may be by doing so that you do or say just the right thing to inspire them, encourage them, re-awaken them, stop them from walking away from God, or help them keep going in their God-given mission. You do not know the power your care, support and noticing can have on fellow believers. It doesn’t have to be complicated, it may look like; reminding them to come to a House group, inviting them to the prayer meeting, a worship night, or to dinner, sending a card, gift, a kind word, even challenging them on their actions or attitude, checking how they are doing. Not things that are big and complex. Yet through these small acts you have the opportunity to inspire others and encourage them in their journey of faith, are you doing that? 

If someone is on your mind, it may be that God has put them there so that you can pray for them and care for them. As people of God we are to watch out and care for each other, and spur one another on to love and serve God wholeheartedly. Are you doing that for anyone? There are people that need inspiration and invitation to continue to live bowing the knee to Him. It could be that you are the one who says to them, ‘Come, bless the Lord’, and so change their lives by inviting them into His presence. Through inspiring and encouraging other believers, you may save someone from wandering away from the faith. Just because you reached out to bless them. So, inspire those who inspire you, encourage and challenge those who do the same for you, and honour those who are living for God. By so doing you may be helping them to keep obedient and keep serving. This includes the ‘servants of the Lord’ who work for the church, whether paid or voluntary. They do so much that is unknown to you. Make sure to encourage them and show gratitude, and inspire them to continue to worship, work for, and bless God. They are blessing you in the work they perform for you before God. From the emails to the sermons, the pastoral visits to the celebrations, maintenance to making cups of tea. The men and women of God who serve the church do so because they love God and His people. They have committed their life, finances, family and livelihood into building and maintaining a faithful gathering of believers. So show your gratitude, bless them, and ask God to bless them too. Be their inspiration and encouragement, for they need it too.

It is a marvellous thing that as you bless God and His people, your own spirit is lifted up. In this psalm you see this pattern; God’s servants are called to bless Him, those who approach Him are blessed, and a blessing is asked of God for those who are His people. It is always God first, but as you put Him first and His people, God will pour out His divine love, power and favour upon you as well. So, what are you waiting for, who will you bless God today?

Is God your Master?

 Psalm 123:1–4 (ESV):   

To you I lift up my eyes, 

O you who are enthroned in the heavens! 

 2  Behold, as the eyes of servants 

look to the hand of their master, 

  as the eyes of a maidservant 

to the hand of her mistress, 

  so our eyes look to the Lord our God, 

till he has mercy upon us. 

 3  Have mercy upon us, O Lord, have mercy upon us, 

for we have had more than enough of contempt. 

 4  Our soul has had more than enough 

of the scorn of those who are at ease, 

of the contempt of the proud. 

How do you look at God? 

Do you look at Him as your Master? 

There are many terms which can be used to refer to God, which demonstrate aspects of His character and His role in our lives such as; Lord, Father, King, Master, Almighty, I am. Which titles of God do you use? Think about how that develops your understanding and expectations of Him. For all of the titles used are helpful and significant in helping you relate to God. He is so different, and so much more perfect than any of your experiences of what a good version of these titles are. The beauty, love, majesty and power of who God is can be displayed through using all of these titles as they profile specific attributes. Yet, sometimes it is easier or more comfortable to just lean into one or two of these, and so you miss the whole beauty of who God is.

I know that in Western society we are comfortable with referring to God as being Father and King. The problem with this is that most of us live in societies where fatherhood and kingship are not admired or respected in the way they once were. The king seems to have little power compared to the government in the UK or the kings of the past, and fathers are often unknown or absent. So, relating to God from this lens can be detrimental, as God could be seen as removed from your circumstances and with little influence. This is not a fair or true reflection of the love, might and presence that God has. Therefore it is good that God has many titles. You can then relate specific aspects of those roles to highlight the different virutes of God's character, and so receive a fuller picture of who He is. This psalm focuses on one such title, Master, which is one that i have observed seems to be rather overlooked in our society.

Regarding God as Master can be hard for us to relate to in the West, as we no longer live in a society where servants and masters are commonplace. It seems old fashioned, removed and irrelevant when we live in a society where equality is strived for. Yet it is a powerful truth that God is Master, so you need to somehow be able to comprehend the virtues of this role, in order to gain a greater understanding of who God is. The writer of this psalm helps us by showing us the beautiful interaction between master/mistress and servant. The servants ‘look to the hand of their master’ and ‘lift up my eyes’ to them. This clearly demonstrates that the servants live in submission to, and under the authority of their master or mistress. The servant awaits direction, even just the movement of the hand (v2) to know what they should do. They closely watch the movements and anticipate the needs of their master as they know it will go well for them when they respond rightly, and who knows what punishment will befall them if they do not?

Relating to God as Master acknowledges that you are a servant. That's not something that most of us like to think ourselves as, yet you are under the authority of the perfect Master when you live in submission to God. He is the One you need to look up to, observe carefully, and await direction from. If you are a follower of God, then you have a duty to be obedient to Him and serve Him. Believing in and loving God carry responsibility. Is this how you see God, and yourself? 

God is not a terrifying or terrible master, but a merciful one (v3). He will take care of you and treat you well, for He is the perfect Master. Therefore He makes sure the needs of His servants are met, and provides them with a shelter and an occupation. He will not harm you, disrespect you, embarrass you, forget you or let you down. He is perfectly good and trustworthy, and He is in charge and He knows best. You can trust Him to lead you well. 

Do you accept God as your Master? And will you respond to Him as His willing, watchful and waiting servant? 

Truth and Trust

 Psalm 119:113–120 (ESV): 

Samekh

 113  I hate the double-minded, 

but I love your law. 

 114  You are my hiding place and my shield; 

I hope in your word. 

 115  Depart from me, you evildoers, 

that I may keep the commandments of my God. 

 116  Uphold me according to your promise, that I may live, 

and let me not be put to shame in my hope! 

 117  Hold me up, that I may be safe 

and have regard for your statutes continually! 

 118  You spurn all who go astray from your statutes, 

for their cunning is in vain. 

 119  All the wicked of the earth you discard like dross, 

therefore I love your testimonies. 

 120  My flesh trembles for fear of you, 

and I am afraid of your judgments. 

'I hate the double-minded, but I love your law.' People can twist the truth, manipulate words, seem to say one thing but mean something else. God doesn't. God doesn’t lie, He is not ambiguous, manipulative or deceptive. God and His every word are true and genuine. Therefore when you rely on Him and His Word, you are basing your decisions on truth, and so you get protection, hope and clear direction. Not so when you rely on the words of others. Whose words do you trust in most? Do you completely trust in what God has spoken? 

You can have confidence that as you believe in and abide by Scripture, God will protect, comfort, save, and refresh you. When tough times come, i find strength and hope when i pray God’s words back at Him. For His promises are true and steadfast. God doesn’t change his mind or go back on what He has said like people do. Praying God’s words can help remind you of what God has said, and help you hold onto the personal and scriptural promises over your life. This has certainly refreshed my faith and provided comfort when i have been struggling and petitioning God for breakthrough.

Think of Jesus and his time in the wilderness when the devil challenged him (Matthew 4:1-11). Jesus overcame temptation through using Scripture. He recalled it and stood firm on what he knew God has said, and in the end the enemy fled! It was hard for Jesus to resist those temptations, and he didn’t have to recall and stand on The Truth just once for the enemy came several times. Jesus had to repeatedly recall Scripture and fight with God’s promises before he saw the breakthrough. You too will need to continue to fight with The Truth. Don’t let the devil wear you out or convince you, he never tells the full truth, only God does. Therefore it is only God’s Word that can be your hope in hopeless situations, your peace in times of chaos, and your protection in times of conflict. It is an effective weapon, are you using it? 

Psalm 119:120–128 (ESV): 

Ayin

 121  I have done what is just and right; 

do not leave me to my oppressors. 

 122  Give your servant a pledge of good; 

let not the insolent oppress me. 

 123  My eyes long for your salvation 

and for the fulfillment of your righteous promise. 

 124  Deal with your servant according to your steadfast love, 

and teach me your statutes. 

 125  I am your servant; give me understanding, 

that I may know your testimonies! 

 126  It is time for the Lord to act, 

for your law has been broken. 

 127  Therefore I love your commandments 

above gold, above fine gold. 

 128  Therefore I consider all your precepts to be right; 

I hate every false way. 

In this section the writer seems to plead for salvation. He seems worn out yet has hope, and is holding on, even though he sees evil seeming to win. This person is experiencing a time when they have faith and trust in God, but are afraid of being in the hands of ‘my oppressors’. It appears that this situation has been going on for a while as they say they ‘my eyes long for your salvation’, so the implication is that they have been looking out for God to act for some time, and they are still wearily waiting and watching for the circumstances to change. Yet, although they seem despondent, they are not hopeless. 

This writer also recognises their rightful position as one who is NOT in charge. They do not tell God what He should do, but ask, ‘i am your servant, give me understanding’. I think that is a powerful mindset! Although this person is being oppressed and is patiently waiting, they are ontinuing to live life in a godly manner. They are not yet seeing breakthrough but are suffering, and they know God can change things, yet they humbly accept that He has not done that so far. The writer realises that they have no right, as a servant, to boss God around, although they probably wish they could! 

Instead of this psalmist responding in anger or frustration to this continued plight, they continue to pray and live faithfully following God. They are not giving up. For they know and trust that God is good, just and righteous. They are not seeing the change they are hoping for, so they continue to trust that God will do something as His ‘law has been broken’. This person knows they need the strength to wait, and to keep watching out for their salvation. Is that not a powerful witness of genuine faith? To humbly accept the oppression, and to humbly hope and trust The Lord for salvation?! The author does not try to rush the solution and find other ways to get free, but waits, prays and continues to follow God’s instructions. 

How do you respond to God in times of pressure, or when God does not do things the way you think He should, or in your timing? 

Reciprocating Father God's love

 Psalm 119:65–72 (ESV): 

Teth

 65  You have dealt well with your servant, 

O Lord, according to your word. 

 66  Teach me good judgment and knowledge, 

for I believe in your commandments. 

 67  Before I was afflicted I went astray, 

but now I keep your word. 

 68  You are good and do good; 

teach me your statutes. 

 69  The insolent smear me with lies, 

but with my whole heart I keep your precepts; 

 70  their heart is unfeeling like fat, 

but I delight in your law. 

 71  It is good for me that I was afflicted, 

that I might learn your statutes. 

 72  The law of your mouth is better to me 

than thousands of gold and silver pieces. 

God treats us in accordance with Scripture, 'You have dealt well with your servant, O Lord, according to your word.' If you follow God’s Word, then you receive a blessing from Him, if you disobey, then you will receive discipline. You can be assured that God will deal well with you and always uphold His Word. He will reward you and bless you when you are faithful to Him, plus He will give you opportunity to correct your behaviour and be led into righteousness and forgiveness when you err, because He is good.. The psalmist confesses, ‘Before i was afflicted i went astray, but now i keep your word.’ Sometimes when you encounter difficulty, do you assess your heart and mind to see if there is some error or sin on your part? This writer did, and as he evaluated his motivation and actions, he realised that they were not in alignment with God's Law. Therefore he acknowledged the source of the affliction, changed his heart, mind and actions and concluded that following God's direction is best. To avoid the; shame, heartache, guilt and suffering that disobedience brings, it is better to read God's ways and follow them. Save yourself from affliction.

It is important to note that not all suffering is due to disobedience, sin or error, but sometimes it is. The sense in this psalm seems to be that the author knows they have messed up and deserved the discipline, and they have learnt from it. Sometimes, do you suffer because you know you are disobeying the Word of God? Or is the suffering due to the fact that their is brokenness and sin in the world? Be sure to check your own heart and motives to see if there is any ungodly way in you. David did, in psalm 139 he says, 'see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!' (v24). Are you of the same mindset? It should not be a shameful thing for you to assess your heart and actions. Jesus died for a reason - to forgive you of ALL sin and free you from affliction. So, admitting that you have gone wrong gives you the opportunity to appreciate Jesus; his life, death and resurrection and learn to live different empowered by the Holy Spirit.

God can show you how to live a faithful life - He has given His Word to instruct you, and His Son to show you. As a good parent, God highlights where you are going wrong, and champions your right living. Good parents want to train you to have a good, healthy life, and to be kind and considerate of others. When it is noticed that you are not doing so, it is good and loving of a parent to let you know. God is that loving Father for you. So, don't be worried or afraid if he points out things to you that He wants you to change, it is not judgement, it is love. Other people do not love or care about you in the same way. Even if they end up trying to ‘smear me with lies’ that this behaviour or manner of life is ok, remember that, 'their heart is unfeeling like fat'! Whereas God will always love you and tell you the truth. Therefore, be more concerned about what He says through the Bible than what others say. Like this writer, learn to love the Word of God for it never changes. Yet, it will challenge and change you because God loves you, and wants you to live the best life you can. Learn to be happy when God disciplines you, for it shows that He cares about you and loves your life. Remind yourself that, ‘it is good for me that i was afflicted, that i might learn your statutes’. 

Psalm 119:73 -80 (ESV): 

Yodh

 73  Your hands have made and fashioned me; 

give me understanding that I may learn your commandments. 

 74  Those who fear you shall see me and rejoice, 

because I have hoped in your word. 

 75  I know, O Lord, that your rules are righteous, 

and that in faithfulness you have afflicted me. 

 76  Let your steadfast love comfort me 

according to your promise to your servant. 

 77  Let your mercy come to me, that I may live; 

for your law is my delight. 

 78  Let the insolent be put to shame, 

because they have wronged me with falsehood; 

as for me, I will meditate on your precepts. 

 79  Let those who fear you turn to me, 

that they may know your testimonies. 

 80  May my heart be blameless in your statutes, 

that I may not be put to shame! 

No-one else has such a claim on your life than God does! He is your Father who made and fashioned you - he hand-crafted your outer and innermost being. Therefore He has a greater right to guide you and should be permitted to have greater influence in your life than anyone else. Do you let Him?

Learn to live for the One who made you, who knows you and loves you unconditionally. Then you will be loved and rejoiced in by those who also know and acknowledge Him. You have a beautiful family through faith in God that will help, lead and guide you in His ways. They will support you in righteousness and lead you to the Word of God. Plus, you will be able to guide and guard others as they see your righteous living, they will come to you ‘that they may know your testimonies’. What a privilege and a responsibility you have within God’s family! The privilege of many who love and invest in you, and the responsibility to lead, love and guide others into the ways of God.

This passage of psalm 119 repeats the word ‘let’ from verse 77. It seems almost a plea, a request that God helps the author to allow; God’s steadfast love become a comfort, mercy to be exciting, sinful people to become unattractive because they lie, growing relationships among other God-fearing people. Do these things echo your prayers? Are you more concerned about learning to be obedient and faithful to God than pleasing yourself and those who disregard Him? If you are not sure how to do this, then learn to understand and apply scripture to your life. Search God's Word so that you can learn what is right and wrong that you ‘may not be put to shame’. Plead with God to connect you well, to build your godly relationships and to reveal His way to you. 

I am poor and needy

 Psalm 86:1–17 (ESV):  

1  Incline your ear, O Lord, and answer me, 

for I am poor and needy. 

 2  Preserve my life, for I am godly; 

save your servant, who trusts in you—you are my God. 

 3  Be gracious to me, O Lord, 

for to you do I cry all the day. 

 4  Gladden the soul of your servant, 

for to you, O Lord, do I lift up my soul. 

 5  For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, 

abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you. 

 6  Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer; 

listen to my plea for grace. 

 7  In the day of my trouble I call upon you, 

for you answer me. 

 8  There is none like you among the gods, O Lord, 

nor are there any works like yours. 

 9  All the nations you have made shall come 

and worship before you, O Lord, 

and shall glorify your name. 

 10  For you are great and do wondrous things; 

you alone are God. 

 11  Teach me your way, O Lord, 

that I may walk in your truth; 

unite my heart to fear your name. 

 12  I give thanks to you, O Lord my God, with my whole heart, 

and I will glorify your name forever. 

 13  For great is your steadfast love toward me; 

you have delivered my soul from the depths of Sheol. 

 14  O God, insolent men have risen up against me; 

a band of ruthless men seeks my life, 

and they do not set you before them. 

 15  But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, 

slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness. 

 16  Turn to me and be gracious to me; 

give your strength to your servant, 

and save the son of your maidservant. 

 17  Show me a sign of your favour, 

that those who hate me may see and be put to shame 

because you, Lord, have helped me and comforted me. 

This psalm written by David shows his humility. Even though he is a strong, powerful, blessed king, he describes himself as, ‘poor and needy….your servant’. As a young man in his father’s house we can see how this would relate to David, but when he wrote this psalm as the anointed king of the nation of God, it can seem odd to try to comprehend. Yet, ‘poor and needy’ is how David describes himself in several of the psalms. As David considers and praises God, i think he recognises how poor and needy he is in comparison with Him. No matter the earthly riches, authority and reputation he has on Earth, what is it when you compare it to God? It is ‘poor’ and insignificant in comparison, and the level of capacity and capability is ‘needy’ indeed. David acknowledged this in a way many of us miss. 

It is not encouraged or desired by society to be known as ‘poor and needy’. In fact, those who are can be looked down upon and pitied so David does not go to people in his poverty or neediness. The only one David wishes to show his lack to is God, for what could man do? God can get to the heart of the deprivation that David feels. It must have been hard for him to relate to being king. From the lowly, overlooked position of a shepherd to a throne, it is not surprising that David felt like he didn't belong, that he wasn't prepared and that he didn't have enough within himself to perform his duties. Yet he was king because he went to the place we all need to when we feel insufficient for the task ahead of us - he went to God. The only one who can give life, salvation, grace, forgiveness, love, courage, hope and joy. These are the things you really need when you feel ‘poor and needy'.

As well as acknowledging the poverty and need in his own life, this psalm also glorifies God. In fact, most of it is a psalm of recognition of how wonderful God is. David recalls how God is good and forgiving, and always loves him - you can see the genuine relationship and delight David has with God. Yet he does not, even as king, consider himself at all powerful or in control in comparison to God, when he thinks about God, he realises how poor and needy he is! As much authority as David has, or as much influence, as many people or wealth he has at his fingers, when you match it up to the wealth, authority, power and capacity God has it truly is ‘poor and needy'. David honours God as the Almighty King. The One who can change any circumstance, the only truly God because no-one and nothing else can compare with what God can do (v8-10). 

In his humility, David asks God to show him what His ‘way’ is. Sometimes we can be so confused and distressed that we do not know what way to go, or what God wants from us in a particular situation. So even in this time where David is in need, he seeks God to show him how to live right to, ‘unite my heart to fear your name’. David knew that his emotions were all over the place, but even so he wanted to honour and serve God well in this season. So he asked God to help unite his heart with obedience to God. What is your response when you are in distress? To you accept your feelings and allow yourself to be mastered by them or do you, even then, in the midst of overwhelming disappointment and sadness decide to subject your emotions to God? This is what David did, and this is powerful. In an age when people do what they feel and follow their emotions, the people of God are not to do that but instead to seek God first. Above thoughts, desires and feelings, they are to invite God to restructure their hearts so that they can live their lives in truth. Is your heart's cry to God in times of difficulty;  'Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name'?

You are poor and needy. You will encounter disappointment and heartache, but you are not to be led by those experiences or emotions. For in your need you have an Almighty God, and Everlasting Father and a Faithful Friend you can call upon to uphold, strengthen, love and guide you. Will you call upon God in your times of need? At the end of this outpouring of love, praise and recognition of the greatness of God David declares, 'Lord, have helped me and comforted me'. Just through spending quality time with God, David has felt comforted, listened to and helped. The situation has not radically changed in the moments of this prayer, but offloading to God and showing that you are willing to do things God's way, not your own, allows God to minister to you. Relying on God gives strength, purpose and unites your heart. I wonder what His way is for you. Are you prepared to ask God to show you, and trust God to unite your heart?

Servant of God

As we commence the book of James, the first question many have is; who is this James, the writer of this letter? I have no answers for you. It is widely believed that this James is the brother of Jesus, but that idea can be contested. In all honesty I do not think it matters. I say this because it clearly was not of upmost importance to the James that wrote this letter. James writes this letter introducing himself as, 'a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ'. This is how he commends himself to his readers, so this is how he wishes to be known. Therefore we will take it that this James, whoever he was, was first and foremost a man that desired to serve and honour God with his life by understanding who Jesus really is whether or not he was the biological brother of Jesus. The first verse of James reads thus;

‘James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes in the Dispersion: Greetings.’ James 1:1

We may read this and think that this is really a humbling introduction James calling himself a servant, especially if he actually is Jesus' brother! Yet, in one way or another we are all servants. 

We can be servants of: our faith, work, desires or passions. It is, in fact, human nature to be a servant to something - we were created to be under authority but also to have it. It was God’s design right at the beginning when He created everything. We were designed to have authority by taking responsibility to look after God's creation under His supervision. So it should not be a shocking thing for us to realise that we are all servants, but what are you serving? 

Being a servant to something is about putting that thing first. Having it as the focus of your money, time, energy and talent. For James, he makes it clear that first and foremost, he is God’s servant. This is what he has put his time, energy, money and talents into. He has chosen to serve God and Jesus. This is what he is invested in. It effects his whole life, it influences where he lives, works, rests, spends his time and money and what he focuses his energy on. James is fully invested in the kingdom of God, and he is not ashamed of it. Considering himself a servant is no minor thing for James. It is a career choice, a job role he is satisfied with and has given his life for. 

If you think about it, James is in good company as a servant of God as; David, Moses, Peter and Paul are also identified as servants of God. These men are renowned for their faith-filled lives and were all quite different in their roles and responsibilities, but they still had the same title - servants of God. Even though these men were very different, they still sacrificed and invested into the same cause. They had the authority and recognition of those with responsibility and they all humbly served God. Yet by being subservient to God, they had great influence and authority as they led significant amounts of people by publicly putting God first. When we consider the lives of these men, David, Moses, Peter, Paul and James, all considered God’s servants, we can struggle to comprehend that such a subservient role can also one of great power and responsibility. We are unused to servants having such influence. However when someone decides to live their lives as a servant of God - look what can happen! An overlooked shepherd boy becomes a king, a runaway murderer becomes the leader of a nation, uneducated men become instigators of a new faith adventure that has influenced millions over thousands of years! Being a servant of God means that you recognise God's authority and put yourself in His hands to do His will. In return, He will lead you to be the man or woman of God you can be and will give you responsibility for some things. Who knows what you could achieve by being a fellow servant of God?

Do you want to have a life that impacts others like these men? Do you want a life that can inspire others for a lifetime? The feats of faith, knowledge, miracles and strength these servants of God experienced are engaging, exciting and admirable. You too can have a life like that - a life that makes a difference and looks different. When you are serving God, a servant life is adventurous and powerful. 

what is your reputation?

 The satraps and officials got their way. There was no loophole in the king’s edict, no matter how much the king fretted and tried to find one, so Daniel was punished for breaking it by being thrown into the den of lions;

‘Then, at break of day, the king arose and went in haste to the den of lions. *20*As he came near to the den where Daniel was, he cried out in a tone of anguish. The king declared to Daniel, “O Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God, whom you serve continually, been able to deliver you from the lions?” *21*Then Daniel said to the king, “O king, live forever! *22*My God sent his angel and shut the lions’ mouths, and they have not harmed me, because I was found blameless before him; and also before you, O king, I have done no harm.” *23*Then the king was exceedingly glad, and commanded that Daniel be taken up out of the den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no kind of harm was found on him, because he had trusted in his God. .’

Daniel 6:19–23.

As soon as he can, after an anguished, sleep-deprived night, the king rushes to the den to find out Daniel’s fate. He addresses Daniel, ‘O Daniel, servant of the living God’. Still gripped by fear, the king doesn't forget Daniel's reputation. It is quite an unusual greeting, certainly not how I have ever heard someone addressed. Yet, what a powerful greeting, what a way to be known!

Daniel’s name has become synonymous with being a servant of God and everyone knows him that way; the satraps, officials, king and the community know that Daniel is a servant of the living God, he is not ashamed of it, he has not hidden it, in fact Daniel has intentionally made his trust in God known through the way he lives his life. 

What are you known for? What is your reputation amongst the people?

Daniel has purposefully been open about the God he serves. He has not kept his private life, his work life or his faith separate. In fact he ensures that everything stems from the faith he has in the Living God. His God is his foundation. Daniel; is obedient, prays multiple times a day, trusts God through the many trials, and he recognises his service to this world is through serving God. Daniel’s faith is not a byproduct of his life or an add on like attending a group, but his identity flows from being a ‘servant of the living God’. Daniel naturally, obviously and openly lives for God. He is patient and perseveres when troubles come, not denying or hiding his faith, but boldly walking in it despite persecution. It is not easy for him, in fact his faith could have cost his life several times.  

Are you living a life of faith as openly and boldly?

This is a challenge for us - how do we build a reputation like Daniel? How do we live so boldly for God? If we look at Daniel, we see that he was open and honest. He never hid his beliefs and values, instead he demonstrated and spoke about them. He made the effort to make God known through his life wherever he was, whoever he was with and in whatever he was doing. He did it when things were going well, and he did it when they weren't. Daniel lived consciously and conscientiously for God. He sought a close relationship with his God through prayer and obedience. This is where Daniel’s reputation came from - a trusting relationship with God. Through this he was secure in God’s goodness and faithfulness. As a result, Daniel realised that he did not need to fight for salvation, his reputation or deliverance. He trusted God. There have been times when Daniel could have made his own plans to save himself, instead, every time, he prayed to ‘the living God’. He did not run away or fight back. As a result he sometimes got answers, revelation and miraculous deliverance, and sometimes, he had to face the terrifying reality in the face so that he and others could see God’s miraculous salvation. Every time Daniel trusts in God. Not himself, or a clever plan, but he seeks God and is rewarded with deliverance and a restored reputation. 

If you want to have a reputation like Daniel’s, what are you doing about it? 

Are you inviting God to make a difference to your character so that you can demonstrate unwavering faith in Him in your lifestyle, your work place and in your community? Daniel's reputation was built upon the foundation of a relationship with God. what is yours built on?

Come, let us build

I have started reading through Nehemiah, and it really struck me anew that there really was a marvellous mix of people that worked together to build up the city wall of Jerusalem. 

The city had been destroyed by battles; the walls burnt and broken, and the pieces left to lie in ruins for years. It was a war-torn, abandoned city. Once the pride and joy of its inhabitants, now it was a place with a few stragglers left or a few returning Jews released from exile amidst a pile of rubble.

Then Nehemiah turned up. Before that though he was in a totally different city, serving a foreign king as a cupbearer. Yet he had a heart for Jerusalem. He was heartbroken by the state of the city of God that had been reported to him. This city, Jerusalem, was the home of his ancestors, the place where the temple of God had been, where festivals had been held by the gatherings of God’s people, now a place of desolation. 

So, he prayed. After all, what could he do? He himself was an exile, and a servant of the king. He prayed. Then God gave him the opportunity to return to Jerusalem, so he took it and went to see what was going on and what he could do.

After prayer and secretly checking out the condition of the city, Nehemiah rallied the people together and became the instigator for the vision to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. Nehemiah told the people what he felt God directing him to do - rebuild and repair the the city wall, he then extended the invite to everyone, ‘Come, let us build the wall of Jerusalem’. Nehemiah knew it was a big task, but that didn't deter him, instead he asked others to join in and help. It wasn’t a mandate, or a law; it was an invitation, an inspired call to action. Nehemiah told the people what he had seen, what he felt and asked them to be a part of it. Many responded. Many did not. 

The overall corporate voice seems to have been, ‘Let us rise up and build. So they strengthened their hands for the good work’. Amazing response! People were willing. They hadn't quite seen things the way they were, or what they could do, until they were inspired and gathered by Nehemiah. Then they wanted tog et involved to make whatever difference they could. That's how a great marvellous mix of people came together to build.

The first mentioned in Nehemiah was the High Priest - the top religious man of the time, along with his family. It seems like they set the precedent; they set aside their robes and status and began the work of builders. This religious family took up Nehemiah’s call to do the dirty, hard lifting work, and they toiled til they had completed and consecrated their section. Many others did the same; men and women from different areas, tribes, vocations and ages. They all did their bit. There were; leaders, goldsmiths, perfumers, rulers, levites, priests, servants and merchants all involved, yet not one mention of a carpenter or builder, isn’t that interesting? You don’t have to be a skilled expert to faithfully do what God has called you to do, you just need to be willing. This story in Nehemiah proves it.

This people were compelled and committed to realising the vision Nehemiah cast to rebuild the city. They heard the call, and signed up to the task. Not an easy one either, they had to work really hard, ‘from the break of dawn until the stars came out’. This was no half-hearted effort, it was all consuming, difficult, labouring. There would have been times when they were; tired, fed up, worn out, grumpy, aching and scared, but they were not put off. They knew the call was to build, and each person dedicated their time, effort and energy to the reconstruction of that city wall. They didn’t focus on the everyday inconvenience, discomfort or danger, but on the promise of a fulfilled mission, the commitment of a people working together to complete a work of God. The city wall of Jerusalem was rebuilt by families and individuals working diligently. Everyone did what they could despite the hard work, late hours and threats. They strengthened one another and look what they achieved - The city wall was built in 52 days! That is impressive! A people willingly working together to build God's kingdom can do incredible things.

So, how can we apply this to our lives? Consider these questions:

What is it that your church is rallying people to build where you live? 

Where is the gap in the wall that you can faithfully build? 

God is calling you, asking you if you would join in the reconstruction work that is going on where you are, ‘Come, let us build'. He invites you to join in, are you going to take up the call, or be like those that didn't? because there is an alternative response to this call. Looking back at the verses in Nehemiah 3, there are those that did not rally, that did not get involved. They were notable in their absence, ’their nobles would not stoop to serve the Lord’. I think that is very sad, don't you? There were, and there are, those that profess to be God’s people, but they won’t get stuck in. When it comes down to the nitty gritty, there are people that will opt out of the hard work of building because it is difficult and inconvenient and maybe because they feel inadequate. Are you one of those? 

If so, look at what you’re missing out on. As we read the book of Nehemiah it is not always fun, in fact it is hard and it will challenge and stretch you, plus you will probably get outside influences and distractions trying to halt you. Yet those that respond to the call to build are part of something bigger than themselves. They see the miracle of completion, the joy of relationship and protection. They see answers to prayer and enemies defeated, they see how God has had a massive hand in their lives and achievements. They see themselves and where they live transformed. So, really, are you willing to miss out on that? 

Today, you have a chance to respond to the call of God to build. 

Are you going to be like the faithful men and women that responded, who could quite rightly have said, “I’m not a builder, I am a perfumer/priest/servant/etc……. What can I do?” Yet they didn’t. They did not regard their experience level, skill or status as a hindrance, instead their response was a willing, ‘Let us rise up and build’!

With the little or the much you have, are you willing to see what God will do with it and how He will use you to build His kingdom? It won't be easy, it will challenge you and stretch you, but will you obey the call?

It could be that God is inviting you to help an existing team, join a prayer initiative, serve refreshments, be part of a community service team, or maybe even start building a part of the wall that hasn't even been started yet, a new initiative that will build the kingdom of God where you are.

If you're not sure what to do, then ask God - He will show you, probably several times if you're anything like me! God has invited me, many times, to do things I have been ill equipped to do. Like; join the welcome team when I was too shy to speak to anyone (I would be the quiet one hiding in the corner or putting away the chairs to avoid conversation), or be part of the prayer team when I never prayed aloud, then to start a Sunday morning youth work when there were no young people in the church at the time. I was weak, incapable and unskilled in all of these things, but I was willing.  And do you know what?! I grew and changed, learnt new skills and abilities and I have seen God do great things. I am not the same person I was, because my attitude was like those willing builders Nehemiah inspired.

Regardless of capacity, status or skill, are you willing to ask God what it is He wants you to build? 

‘Let us rise up and build’? 

Shaky Servant

 

The faith of Abraham’s servant is quite astounding. He is faithful to Abraham, and totally respects the faith Abraham has, acknowledging something significant about ‘the God of my master Abraham’. 

Although, at the beginning of Genesis chapter 24 the servant seems overwhelmed by the task his master is giving him, the servant has trust enough in Abraham and God to do as Abraham asks. 

The servant even prays a bit of an outrageous prayer (ever done that?!). Then he sits there, I believe, in awe-struck silence, as his prayer is answered straight away right in front of his eyes. 

We can see from the text that he was clearly stunned, he and questioned whether it was really that easy the task he had been sent on. He knew it shouldn’t be. He had started the journey with many questions and concerns. Yet he still stepped out in nervous faith, more carried along by the faith of Abraham and his obedience to him. It was then that his own faith grew. 

As we read more about the unravelling of this story, the servant honestly retells the events to those listening, and they acknowledge, “the thing has come from the Lord”. 

As the servant sees that God indeed is with him, he worships, he recognises that it’s not anything of his own self that deserves this situation to work out as it has. He knows he has been sent by a God-filled man, and he humbly continues with his mission having seen what God has already achieved through his obedience. 

I love this story because I see the humility of this servant whose name isn’t even mentioned.  He doesn’t know if he really believes in this God, as he refers to Him as, ‘the God of my master Abraham’. The servant is obedient even though the task set before him stretches him and demands something unusual. His obedience to the faith-filled Abraham is ultimately what leads him to begin to understand that there really is a God, and that this God is significant. This God makes things happen, even those things that seem ridiculous, this God is present, this God listens, this God fulfils His purposes, this God is awesome and is worthy of worship. 

Yet, the servant would not have grown in faith in this way unless Abraham had challenged him to go on this journey. The servant had seen Abraham make decisions in faith, but had not had to do it on his own before. Abraham sent him, and look at the increase of faith this produced in that man, and the blessing it brought to Abraham’s family. 

Are you willing to be sent on a faith journey? 

Is there someone who’s faith you admire that is setting a challenge for you to move and grow in faith? If so, be obedient, take the risk - what’s the worse that can happen? 

When you step out in faith, it is terrifying, it is different, and people may think you’re a bit crazy, but be ready, like the servant, to pray outrageous prayers and see outrageous answers. It won’t just change your life, but the lives those around you too. The task of Abraham's servant seemed ridiculous really, yet he trusted in the faith of his master, someone who had seen God working in so many ways in his life, the servant took stock of the success and faith of this man, and realised that eventhough he did not share the faith of Abraham, he could trust that Abraham knew what he was asking of him and expecting of God. So, the servant stepped froward with trepidation. He by no means was certain of success, or of what would happen, but he had confidence in Abraham, even if he didn't have the same confidence in God yet. 

Are you willing to go like Abraham’s servant was? It is ok to have questions, it’s ok to not be sure, it’s ok to be nervous and excited. It’s great to pray and trust. So, are you willing to take the first shaky steps into a new future as you trust in the faith of others when they call you to step out?

servant or son?

At the beginning of Hebrews 3 we see a great comparison of two great men of faith - Moses and Jesus.

The writer shows that both of these highly thought of religious figures were faithful in the house of God.
They were both obedient and faithful. Both are worthy of glory, they are honoured and revered by others. They both conversed with God and had a significant relationship with Him. They both have been essential in building up the household of God through their service and unending faith in God. They both knew who they were, their roles and responsibilities and they recognised the privilege they had in the household. Both Moses and Jesus were all in.

With so much similarity - what actually differentiates these two men?

One is a servant, the other a son. 

Moses knew who he was, he knew he was a servant, and he accepted the role and lived it well. He enjoyed the benefits of the household but realised the limits of his capacity. He served whole-heartedly and enjoyed a close confidential relationship with the master.
Moses was a great precursor to Jesus. He showed as best he could, how to be a part of the household of God. He was faithful and worthy, a honoured member of God’s house, but no matter how great and magnificent a servant he was, he could never own the house or gain the recognition a son does. Moses earned his position through faithful service, obedience and bravery. A servant earns their recognition and authority through acts of service whereas a son is born with it.

The son of God, Jesus, is not only born with authority, but he carries the very DNA of God and shares the same characteristics. The son carries the essence of the father inherently. As the son of the master, he is born to govern and serve and so carries a different authority and standing in the household than a servant.

However this in no way diminishes the role of the servant. A faithful servant is still a revered, loved and trusted servant. It is just that the role and responsibility of a servant and a son differ. Moses could in no way attain the glory of son-hood. Yet, those who trust and believe in Jesus can.

If you know Jesus is the son of God, and you place your life in his hands, as he placed his own life into the hands of the human race, and you know that he died as an innocent man with the weight of your sin on his shoulders, then rose again to prove that he truly is God, and he truly can absolve you of every nasty thing you’ve ever done - if you believe in all of that, then you have the blessed privilege of being in God’s household, not as a servant, but a son.

Are you living in the knowledge that you are no longer a servant but a son?
Do you take seriously the responsibility you have for God's household?
Are you accessing the privilege of access and relationship you are entitled to?