"Feeling Safe"

 

“Feeling Safe”

 

Early this past summer I saw a news story about a bride who withdrew an uncle’s invitation to her marriage ceremony because he had different political views from hers and she said (using her own words), “I don’t feel safe!” She then was offended when he didn’t send a generous monetary gift as was his practice when he attended family weddings. An advice columnist responded to her that her uncle was under no obligation to send a gift once he was excluded and told the bride to “Get over it!” This serves as a prime example of the “culture of entitlement” in which we’re now living.

“I don’t feel safe” seems to have become culturespeak for “I don’t want to talk about it!” Rather than backing off sometimes our response might be, “Why don’t you feel safe talking about ___?” “I just don’t!” is a common response. I can think of some reasons one might want to avoid a given topic: a reluctance to hear a viewpoint different from one’s own, resistance to changing one’s mind, fear of being challenged or they’re simply repeating what they’ve heard rather than investigating the source or facts. Solomon may have had such thoughts in mind when he wrote, “A fool finds no pleasure in understanding but delights in airing his own opinions.” (Proverbs 18:2).

The late news commentator Paul Harvey published many anecdotes under the theme “The Rest of the Story”. (See the early posting, “Never Too Late”, for my attempt at this technique.) Again we turn to Solomon’s counsel: “The first to present his case seems right, till another comes forward and questions him.” (Proverbs 18:17). The “rest of the story” can make a big difference—don’t overlook it!

There are circumstances in our lives in which we may not feel safe or secure. How do we handle these times of stress and uncertainty? Again let’s listen to Solomon: “Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but to trust the Lord means safety.” (Proverbs 29:25, NLT). If our thinking is grounded in our faith as found in the truth of God’s Word He has our back. In the words of a yesteryear chorus, “Safe am I in the hollow of His hand.” What better place could I be?

 

Grace and Blessings!

Jim McMillan

 

"The Lot Syndrome"

 

“The Lot Syndrome”

 

One of Scripture’s most tragic figures is Lot, whom we first read of in Genesis 11. His father Haran died while Lot was still young and his Uncle Abram took him under his wing. When God called Abram to move to Canaan Lot went along and over the next few years became very wealthy. This caused conflict with his uncle leading to Abram’s suggestion that they each go their own way and Lot chose the more appealing of the two options (Genesis 13). It was the beginning of a downward spiral which we might call The Lot Syndrome.

After choosing “…the whole plain of the Jordan (that) was well watered….” (Genesis 13:10-11) Lot went east and “…pitched his tents near Sodom.” (Genesis 13:12), an early-on decision which led to his moving into Sodom several years later (Genesis 14:12) and becoming so caught up in its wicked life that he became a city official about 15 years later (“…{he sat} in the gateway of the city.”—Genesis 19:1). He, his wife and two daughters were so attached to the pagan culture around them that God’s angels had to drag them out when judgment was immanent (Genesis 19:16-17). God then destroyed Sodom and its sister city Gomorrah.

According to 2 Peter 2:7 Lot was “…a righteous man, who was distressed by the filthy lives of lawless men….” but who had lost his godly influence on those around him (see Genesis 19:14). If we allow ourselves to be unduly affected by the culture in which we live we run the risk of seeing our impact compromised. To show this danger Paul cited the Greek dramatist Menander: “Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character,’” (1 Corinthians 15:33). This is exactly what happened to Lot as a result of his youthful decision and serves as a warning to each of us (“…Everything that was  written in the past was written to teach us….”—Romans 15:4).

If we get our eyes off God and His purposes for us we can easily become distracted and walk on ungodly and dangerous paths. Many of Israel’s kings fell into this trap as have many of God’s people even today. A psalmist states the choice he made: “I have chosen the way of truth; I have set my heart on your laws.” (Psalm 119:30). May I do likewise and avoid The Lot Syndrome.

 

Grace and Blessings!

Jim McMillan

(For another look at the impact of early decisions see “A Divide Creek Moment”.)

"Answered Prayer"

 

“Answered Prayer”

 

In the Thompson Chain Reference Bible, my primary study tool for over 60 years, only God and Christ have more “sub-subjects” than prayer. There are many promises of answers and specific examples of God’s responses to the requests brought to Him by His people. In His words of encouragement to His disciples the night of His arrest Jesus assured them that “You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.” (John 14:14, emphasis added). Decades later His friend wrote, “…If we ask anything according to his will, he heard us.” (1 John 5:14, emphasis added). Years ago I heard a preacher say that if God’s conditions are met He’ll answer with yes, no or not now. Here are three incidents from my recent past that I’ve seen this up close and personal.

My brother Dave and his wife Jean were in a horrendous car wreck in May 2022. Jean wasn’t seriously hurt but we almost lost Dave—his two kids were told to get his affairs in order by hospital personnel. But God’s people prayed, God touched him directly and through the skills He gave medical personnel and after seven weeks in ICU and three more in rehab he returned home. Today he’s functioning normally and rejoicing in God’s goodness as are many others.

I keep in touch with a retired Army chaplain and his wife who divide their post-military time with ministry in Korea and the U.S. Several months ago he asked me to pray for his wife’s eye issue which threatened her sight and for financial provision as the treatment wasn’t covered by insurance. Many prayed, God brought healing and the financial need was met. As I write this they’re in Korea ministering to God’s people there.

In late April I began experiencing muscle stiffness and fatigue which worsened over a three week period. Karen and I prayed and she did some internet research and found an autoimmune condition which checked the boxes. My primary care doctor took it seriously and referred me to a rheumatologist who confirmed the diagnosis and prescribed treatment. Today I’m moving about normally thanks to God’s working through prayer, people and medications.

As the Jewish people made their way to Jerusalem for their annual celebrations they sang “Songs of Ascents” (Psalms 120-134). I and others impacted by the incidents cited above echo the words of Psalm 126:3: “The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.” Please rejoice and praise God with us for the (in the words of hymn writer Fanny Crosby) “…great things He hath done….”

 

Grace and Blessings!

Jim McMillan

"Assumptions"

 

“Assumptions”

 

A small business owner in one of the churches we served had a sign on his desk which said “Never Assume”. Undoubtedly this grew out of his many years of dealing with customers and vendors who were looking for an “edge” so he learned to ask questions to come to mutual understandings. The fact that his family-owned company is now led by the fourth generation shows the wisdom of his actions.

What’s true about assumptions in the corporate world can be carried into our ministry and witness, One of the big dangers in both is using the same terminology but with different meanings. For example, in a discussion I once had with a cultist he said he believed in the resurrection of Christ but as I probed further I discovered he meant restoration of Jesus’ influence, not the resurrection of His body. In another case a church’s Search Team interviewed and recommended a pastoral candidate who was called to the church. It wasn’t until questions began to arise that it was discovered that the team and the pastor had used the same terms but they were understood differently (the pastor had served in another region of the country). There was no intention to mislead but unfortunate assumptions led to struggles and division.

Scripture makes two significant assumptions which are distinct from ours: they come from God. In Genesis 1:1 we read, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” His eternal existence and unlimited power aren’t defended but simply stated (dare I say assumed) as fact. Then just before returning to Heaven Jesus said to His disciples, “…As you are going make disciples of all nations….” (Matthew 28:19, my literal translation, emphasis added). Our Lord assumes we’ll obey His one command (‘…make disciples….”) by meeting people where they are and sharing His message of salvation and hope with them. The fact that He anticipates our doing so shows He’s trusting us to be His ambassadors. How trustworthy am I in being His witness and representative?

We ought to “never assume” on a human level but “always assume” God will keep His word. So let’s keep our assumptions in order.

 

Grace and Blessings!

Jim McMillan

"Provision for Obedience"

 

“Provision for Obedience”

 

This past July I began a new method of journaling (see the previous article by this title). I read a chapter in Scripture, pick out a key word or two (or phrase) and jot down the thoughts God brings to mind. Today I was in Genesis 8 which tells of the great flood’s coming to an end. I chose “recede” and “dried up” which describe God’s preparing the earth for rehabitation by humans and animals. In my reflections I saw a truth that needed to be reinforced in my mind and another I hadn’t noticed before.

The first thing Noah did when he and his family emerged from the ark was build an altar and likely lead his family in a time of worship and thanksgiving (Genesis 8:20-22). God used this to remind me that my first response to His blessings in my life ought to be acknowledging His goodness. How often have I been the recipient of His gifts and not taken time to honor Him. Paul admonishes me to “…give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Just as the thankful leper received a word of encouragement from Jesus (Luke 17:17-19) we’re enriched by our gratitude (“Blessed be the Lord, Who daily loads us with benefits….” (Psalm 68:19, NKJV).

The first of the 613 commands in the Old Testament is in Genesis 1:28: “Be fruitful and increase in number: fill the earth and subdue it.” This began with Cain’s birth (Genesis 4:1) and continued until human wickedness led to God’s destroying life on earth except for Noah’s family and the animals in the ark. When the rain stopped the flood waters receded and the earth became dry, a process that took about 220 days. God then commanded the eight people to leave the ark and let the animals loose. So He made provision for His command to be followed in the reestablishing of life on the land (Genesis 8:16-19). In all my reading of God’s Word I never before made this connection. I’m thankful that even at 80 years young God’s still showing me “…great and unsearchable things….” (to take some liberties with Jeremiah 33:3)—and I pray I’ll never stop learning.

God never gives commands without providing resources for us to do what He says (“…God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.”—2 Corinthians 9:8, emphasis added). So before I say, “I can’t” to a command I must say, “I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13, emphasis added) and move ahead with Him in faith.

 

Grace and Blessings!

Jim McMillan

 

"'Necessary' Words?"

 

“’Necessary’ Words?”

 

After a series of events some years ago I made a difficult decision which didn’t please a woman who was known for her frequent complaints. She told me she had to say something about it to which I responded that she chose to do so—no one had forced her to. Later on by God’s grace the situation had a positive outcome showing that “…all things work together for good to those who love God….” (Romans 8:28, NKJV, emphasis added).

One of the leaders in a church we served would sometimes say, “To be brutally honest….” or an equivalent phrase. While Scripture calls for us to “…put off falsehood and speak truthfully….” (Ephesians 4:25) it further states that we’re to do so with kindness (“Be gracious in your speech.”—Colossians 4:6, TM) and in love (“…{speak} the truth in love….”—Ephesians 4:15). Centuries before Solomon had warned, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” (Proverbs 15:1). I shudder to think of how many times I’ve failed to follow this sage counsel leading to some ugly results when I should have prayed as David did: “Take control of what I say, O Lord, and keep my lips sealed.” (Psalm 141:3, NLT).

Our Lord’s brother calls on us to be “…quick to listen, slow to speak….” (James 1:19, emphasis added) and Solomon reminds us that there’s “…a time to keep silent and a time to speak….” (Ecclesiastes 3:7, emphasis added). So how can I know if I should open my mouth or keep it shut? Maybe I ought to start by asking myself (and God), “Is it necessary to say this?” If I’m not sure here are a few guidelines to follow:

*Is it true? If not that ends the dilemma right there (Exodus 20:16).

*What’s my motivation? To make me feel or look superior (Psalm 12:3)? To have others conform to my personal standards (Matthew 7:1-2)? To help a brother or sister in Christ grow in their faith (Romans 15:2)? Or help bring the church to maturity in faith (Ephesians 4:11-13)?

*When God’s given me His answer may I speak and act with loving concern from Him to His people (“Whoever loves God must also love his {brother or sister}.”—1 John 4:21). Then “…(I’ll) pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another,” (Romans 14:19, NASB).

 

Grace and Blessings!

Jim McMillan

"From 'Stinkin' Thinkin' to 'Raisin' Praisin'"

 

“From ‘Stinkin’ Thinkin’ to ‘Raisin’ Praisin’”

 

While living in South Carolina we heard a message in which the pastor referred to “stinkin’ thinkin’”, which often plagues us on this journey we call life. The phrase, generally thought to have been coined by psychologist Albert Ellis and known in professional circles as Cognitive Distortions, describes negative perceptions of oneself or circumstances. Perhaps the best biblical example is the prophet Habakkuk. He ministered around 605 BC at the time of the Battle of Carchemish in which the Chaldeans (aka Babylonians) under Nebuchadnezzar defeated the Egyptians and became the dominant power in the then-known world. Judah had been under Egyptian control but became subject to this ruthless new master. Habakkuk couldn’t understand how God could allow this and fell into the “stinkin’ thinkin’” trap. He expressed his frustration in this way: “How long, O Lord, must I call for help, but you do not listen?...The wicked hem in the righteous, so that justice is perverted…O Rock, you have ordained them to punish. Your eyes are too pure to look on evil; you cannot tolerate wrong…Why are you silent while the wicked swallow up those more righteous than themselves?” (Habakkuk 1:2,4,12-13). But God encouraged His confused servant: “Because you (i.e. Babylon) have plundered many nations, the peoples who are left will plunder you…The violence you have done…will overwhelm you….” (2:8,17). (In other words, “I’ve {i.e. God’s} got this!”) With this assurance Habakkuk’s “stinkin’ thinkin’” became “raisin’ praisin’”: “I stand in awe of your deeds. O Lord…in your wrath remember mercy…Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines; though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior. The Sovereign Lord is my strength….” (3:2,17-19, emphasis added). What transforming words!

I had a “stinkin’ thinkin’” time 30+ years ago when I felt much like Habakkuk did. But through Karen’s love and support, prayers and encouragement from friends and God’s Word (especially Jeremiah 29 and Psalm 73) my “stinkin’ thinkin’” became “raisin’ praisin’”. It took time—I had a lot to learn—but in the end I could look back and see God’s hand in my journey and exalt Him as Habakkuk had centuries before,

“Raisin’ praisin’” will beat “stinkin’ thinkin’” every time. So let’s say with Paul, “Rejoice in the Lord always.” (Philippians 4:4, emphasis added).

 

Grace and Blessings!

Jim McMillan

"A Blended Family"

 

“A Blended Family”

 

In my research I found that the term “blended family” was first used in 1972. Since then it has largely replaced “step family” to describe two family groups which come together to form a new and (hopefully) united family. With the cultural changes over the past half century this household arrangement has become increasingly commonplace. Virtually all of us are familiar with one or more “blended families” (a gentler term than “step family”) in our own families as well as in our neighborhoods, churches and other relationships.

Perhaps the most well-known example of a blended family was portrayed on the 1969-1974 sitcom “The Brady Bunch”. The classic show features a widowed mother with three daughters and a widowed father and three sons marrying and, in the words of the theme song, “That this group should somehow form a family, that’s the way we all became The Brady Bunch.” The series depicts the struggles of blended family life but in the end everything works out in mutual love and respect. If only this were the case in all real-life situations!

A key phrase in Ecclesiastes is, “There is nothing new under the sun.” (1:9). While the modern usage of “blended family” goes back only 50 years God introduced the idea in the first century to describe the church. In Galatians 3:28 Paul writes, “In Christ’s family there can be no divisions into Jew and non-Jew, slave and free, male and female. Among us you are all equal. That is, we are all in a common relationship with Jesus Christ.” (TM, emphasis added)—in other words, we’re a blended family based on our faith in Christ.

A 21^st century example might look like this: “There’s no division over family of origin, national heritage, economic status, sports team preferences, likes and dislikes or any other peripheral issue. We’re joined together in fellowship through the common bond of our salvation in Christ.” In the further words of Paul, “…In Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.” (Romans 12:5, emphasis added). Dare we call ourselves “The Jesus Bunch” as His blended family? May this be true to His glory!

 

Grace and Blessings!

Jim McMillan

 

(For another take on this topic see “Undivided”.)