Sermon Nuggets Mon April 20
Theme- Unpredictability of Life
Verses- Eccl 9:1 So I reflected on all this and concluded that the righteous and the wise and what they do are in God's hands, but no man knows whether love or hate awaits him.
The Unpredictability of Life
Last week we reflected on the predictability of death. Because we all die it makes a difference how we should live. But this week is another side of the argument. Life on this earth has no guarantees. There are principles to live by but as far as this world is concerned those principles do not always produce predictable results. We are constantly surprised as to what happens in our world.
The works that we accomplish in this life is the basis of our rewards in the next. We cannot earn our rewards after the grave.
There are some ditties- "Now I get me up to work, I pray the Lord I may not shirk. If I should die before tonight, I pray the Lord my works' all right." Another said, “When my life on earth is past only the work for Christ will last.” What are you doing for Him?
We do not know how long our life will be on this earth. We do not know what will happen tomorrow. We have no guarantees of health or wealth, or poverty or illness.
The hedonist philosophy of old says, "Eat drink and be merry for tomorrow you die." Live it up while you can for this is as good as it gets. Friends let me say something I hope you do not miss. If you are outside of faith in Jesus Christ this life is as good as it gets. It will not get any better than this. You might as well make life as fun as you want fulfilling any and all desires, for after this life is over there is the judgment and eternal hell. But likewise, for those who have faith in Jesus Christ as their Savior and seek to live for him this life on earth is as worse as it will every get. All the problem and troubles of this earth is the worse hell you will ever experience, for He has prepared a place for eternity that in his presence will be joy everlasting. Are you prepared? Either this life is the best heaven you will enjoy or the worse hell you will enjoy. And when this life is ended it will be too late to repent. There will be no other chance.
Making our choices of preparing for the predictable and living in a world of unpredictability must rely on faith. Faith is trusting in Gods’ work and His promises that He will carry out what He has promised.
When Solomon sought to experience all he could on life he passed on all that he observed. The first verse was the theme of the rest of the chapter. As we look more closely at verese 11-18 this week the emphasis I want us to think about is how to live in an unpredictable world. There is one thing we experience since Jesus Christ that no one else experienced up to 33 AD. We who have believed in Christ and sought to make Him Lord over our lives have the power and presence of the Holy Spirit to be our guide and our comfort in the unpredictable world. For that give praise this day.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Tues April 21
Verses-Eccl 9: 11 I have seen something else under the sun: The race is not to the swift or the battle to the strong, nor does food come to the wise or wealth to the brilliant or favor to the learned; but time and chance happen to them all.
Unpredictability Attacks Self Confidence.
Solomon started this chapter reminding us that even the wise and the righteous do not know whether love or hate awaits him. Now in this verse his observations lead to humbly say all man's plans and dreams are unpredictable. We try so hard to prepare for the future and to make sense of life by applying certain principles to get blessings but somehow it just doesn't always work. We can do every thing right and have things turn out wrong. And some can do everything wrong and have things turn out right as far as this world is concerned. Life is more complex than 10 easy principles of this or 7 easy lessons of that. I realize that I too can be guilty of oversimplifying the principles presented.
I went to a seminar on how to understand you wife. Guess what? I applied every principle the teacher gave me and it didn't work. Wives are more complex than a 3 hour seminar. We cannot be self confident in our achievements. Whatever we have experienced for good is a gift from God. We too often take credit for our works instead of His grace. Difficulties and circumstances keep us dependent on Him.
Injustice has always been a problem for believers. Why do folks who seek to be faithful, suffer? Why do those who seem to have no regard for God or His ways seems to have an easy and rich life? Why do the evil prosper? Why do the faithful fall?
Friends in life, even in the Christian life, there are no pat answers. We need the continual reminder that faith in God is believing and knowing He is in control and He knows best. God has said He will never leave us nor forsake us. Just because you cannot understand all the answers doesn't mean we give up on the one who does know all the answers.
If there is one constant complaint against church people by outsiders it is “self righteousness.” Instead of witnessing compassion and humility there is a perception of people who are holier and more judgmental toward others. There are people who think they have God all figured out. If they say a prayer a certain way, or follow a particular path then their wanted results always follow. Solomon says that just isn't so in this life. I feel so small and ignorant when complexities come. I ask "Why Lord, I do not understand.” I find that real Christian maturity isn't being able to answer the questions; it is to trust even in the midst of questions. Sometimes a satisfying answer never comes. As we humbly walk with trust in the Lord we accept by faith that some things are not for us to understand and are beyond our ability humanly to understand. But we will understand it by and by.
Oswald Chambers, said, "God disciplines us by disappointments. Life may have been going on like a torrent, then suddenly down comes a barrier of disappointment, until slowly we learn that the disappointment was His appointment. God hides His treasures in darkness, and many a radiant star that was not seen before comes out. In some lives you can see the treasure. There is sweetness and beauty about them, the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit and you wonder where the wisdom power of God came from. It came from the dark places where God revealed His sovereign will in unexpected issues. ‘Thou hast enlarged me when I was in distress.’ the psalmist says. Isn't it in those dark days that we lean most on God?”
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Weds April 22, 2009
Verse- Eccl 9: 12 Moreover, no man knows when his hour will come: As fish are caught in a cruel net, or birds are taken in a snare, so men are trapped by evil times that fall unexpectedly upon them.
Unpredictability Results in False Confidence
It's not the fastest that wins the race, nor the strongest than wins battle, nor the wisest farmer that necessarily gets the best crop, nor the brilliant that gets the most money. And still no one knows when death will occur.
Eric Clapton, a noted rock star, wrote a ballad called tears in heaven, "Would you know my name, if I saw you in heaven? Would it be the same, if I saw you in heaven? I must be strong and carry on. 'Cause I know I don't belong, here in heaven."
During his career Clapton had faced heroin addiction and the pain of shattered relationships with wives and women. Finally he seemed to have found peace and maturity as a parent. But he wrote ‘Tears in Heaven’ after the accidental death of his 4 year old son who fell from a 53rd floor NYC apartment in 1991. His song was named record of the year and song of the year at 35th annual Grammy Awards. He sang, "Time can bring you down. Time can bend your knees. Time can break your heart, have you beggin' please. Beyond the door there's peace, I'm sure. And I know, there'll be no more tears in heaven."
Pop-culture expect Bob DeMoss said, "Clapton knows that there's peace on the other side, if only he could bring himself to ask for forgiveness..It's evident that he's so close, yet so far."
There are times when people say, I do not understand this world. I cannot make sense out of my life. Things don't always turn out they way we think they should.
We live in a world where too often dreams are shattered, but that doesn’t mean we can’t dream. We live in a world where people we love disappoint us, but that doesn’t mean we don’t love. We live in a world where our jobs may not be secure, but that doesn’t mean we don’t do our best in our work. We live in an unsecure world but that does not mean we quit or give up.
I applaud those whose homes have been devastated by tornados or floods and in tears say, I have lost everything, but will build again. We have not lost lives and things can be replaced.
There are both warnings in the Bible to not put too much stock in things over which we have no control. Yet it also teaches we make wiser decisions as we assess as carefully as we can our present plans to make decisions that affect our future. The wise man who built bigger barns was anticipating living a long life. Retirement is not a bad thing to plan. But all his riches were placed in those dreams to the neglect of his eternal and spiritual life. The man who was going to build a house was wise if he first considered all he needed before the house was build and the type of foundation needed to withstand future storms.
It is wise to plan for the future, but not put all our trust in things that pass away. If your whole life and love is devoted to anything of this world we will lose it some day and then what will you do?
Pastor Dale.
Sermon Nuggets Thur April 23, 2009
Verses- Eccl 9: 13-15 I also saw under the sun this example of wisdom that greatly impressed me: There was once a small city with only a few people in it. And a powerful king came against it, surrounded it and built huge siegeworks against it.
Now there lived in that city a man poor but wise, and he saved the city by his wisdom. But nobody remembered that poor man.
Unpredictability Produces Surprises.
Underdogs win sometimes. It is frustrating in sports when millions of dollars are paid to the best players making the lower paid teams and coaches’ automatic losers. We live in a world where prejudice abounds against those less talented, less rich, less popular.
If you haven’t been one of the 30 plus million who saw a replay of Susan Boyle’s performance in Britain’s Got Talent contest you should see it at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=luRmM1J1sfg (copy and paste in your address line).
What makes her one of the overnight successes is that she was such a surprise to Simon Cowell and the rest of the judges and audience when this timid church volunteer at 47 years of age brought the house down with the beauty of her voice. The cheers were not just for her talent, but for the surprise of someone who did not impress others with her looks, dress, or personality shocked the world with her talent.
We see played over and again the autistic but enthusiastic basket ball manager, 17-year-old Jason McElwain from Greece Athena High School. Just to honor him in his senior year they coach let him play in the last home game. He delighted the home crowd by shooting a surprising 3 point long shot. But it didn’t stop there- he did it again, and again and again and again and again. In a few minutes he gained for his team 20 points. They carried him off the court on the shoulders of his teammates.
These stories are surprising in a couple of ways. The underdog wins. The least popular surpasses the favorites. The forgotten outshine the heroes. There is something within us that touches the heart of our own feelings of feeling unworthy. For once the weakest link becomes the strongest. Those expected to lose win in the last seconds. We feel good about that and say talent deserves to be honored above those who flaunt it.
But what is equally surprising is that Susan Boyle was ever allowed to sing in the first place, or Jason McElwain was allowed to play, or people would be given the chance of participating. Prejudice of all sorts stops people off at the pass.
In this short illustration Solomon acknowledges a poor man who stands up with his wisdom against the advances of a king and his army and is able to save the city. The results are the city is spared. Wisdom wins over might. What isn’t surprising is that no one could come up with his name and there was no banquet given in his honor. He remained in the shadows and forgotten. It might be likely the mayor of the city got the honors. It might be true the notoriety goes to the boss instead of the secretary who prepared his presentation. It seems typical the bonus payments go to those in supervisory positions while the employee who originally presented the winning idea is transferred to another department or laid off.
Man's plans do not always work. It was Goliath who had strength; it was David that had faith. It was Ahab that had power; it was Elijah that had God. It was the wise men of Egypt that had education; it was Namaan's servant girl that was the tool for cleansing. Friends, God keeps intervening man's plans to prove our life is humanly unpredictable.
Wisdom was better than strength. Brains beat brawn. But this poor man didn't get the prize, or reward- that seemed so unfair. He didn't get the credit for his wisdom or work.
But God knows. Many forgotten people who did right are known by God and that's enough. More than that, God often chooses to work through clay vessels so that He might receive the glory. He is the giver of talent, wisdom, strength, voice, and life. Jesus chose to come among the poor and be ridiculed, ignored, and rejected. He understands our world. He knows our hearts. He keeps the final score in the end.
So keep singing, keep shooting, keep sharing, keep giving and do it for Him knowing He is delighted even if no one else notices.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Fri April 24, 2009
Verses- Eccl 9:16-18 So I said, "Wisdom is better than strength." But the poor man's wisdom is despised, and his words are no longer heeded.
The quiet words of the wise are more to be heeded than the shouts of a ruler of fools.
Wisdom is better than weapons of war, but one sinner destroys much good.
Unpredictability Needs Stability
We can try to prepare for the unexpected. As Solomon stated so well that is not always possible. We do not know the future. Some people live paranoid lives thinking bad things will happen to them and their worries overwhelm them. They do not have peace. There are so many things in life over which we have no control. However, there are wise ways to live. To ignore good advice is to risk greater peril. God gives wisdom sometimes through people we least expect. Those who shout the loudest are not always the wisest. One sinner can destroy much good.
Giving good advice and applying wisdom was the purpose of Solomon’s other book- the book of Proverbs. Wisdom will guide us in making better decisions that in the long run protects us from major disappointments and allows for greater security.
A person can save for a rainy day and find that savings destroyed. But it is still wiser to have some savings. A person can prevent lots of health problems by eating properly, and exercising. But so far the mortality rate is 100%. Even healthy people die young.
I read a parable of a man who was going on a journey. He traveled light. Along the way he met various people who warned him of things he could experience. Each concern resulted in carrying more things he might need to prepare him for the unexpected, until he was burdened down with much weight. As he walked across a bridge over the river all his extra weight caused the bridge to break and he fell into the water and drowned.
There is one thing for sure- we do not know what the future can hold as far as this world is concerned. Only what God's word reveals will happen. Do you know it predicts our world will be destroyed? There will be a new heaven and a new earth. Do you know it predicts a world-wide economic crisis? There are treasures in heaven than cannot be taken away. Do you know Jesus is coming again? Some will be taken and others will be left behind. We know how to prepare for that.
I do not know why Peter was miraculously released from prison and Stephen was stoned to death as a martyr. I don't know why some person can be spared death from an accident but another is killed in one. I do not know what God answers the prayer of family member in his 70s to come out of a coma and a young couple has a still born child. I do not know why some missionaries are slaughtered and others miraculously released. I do not know why evil people are sometimes rewarded in their dishonesty and honest people suffer because of their commitment to Godly morals. But in spite of what this world calls success, if you are out of God's will there is no true success and happiness, and if you are in the center of God will there is no true failure. Can you walk by faith and not by sight and ask "though, I do not understand, yet will I trust in the one who died for me?"
Solomon raises very significant questions and observations. There is a predictability of death. It will come to you and to me. When it does all our decisions and work on this life is over. Until then there is the unpredictability of our days and the future. But there came one, Jesus Christ, who gave us hope. He said, “in this world you will have tribulation but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."
Can you believe that even when the days are dark? Do you know that Christ is your hope in our uncertain world and in our certain death? Faith in Him will lead us down paths we have not traveled before but there are no surprises to Him. Let Him be your stability in these unpredictable days.
Pastor Dale
Friday, April 24, 2009
Friday, April 17, 2009
Preparing for Death Ecclesiastes 9:1-10
Sermon Nuggets Mon April 13, 2009
Theme PREPARING FOR DEATH
Verses-Ecc 9:3 This is the evil in everything that happens under the sun: The same destiny overtakes all. The hearts of men, moreover, are full of evil and there is madness in their hearts while they live, and afterward they join the dead.
The Predictability of Death
Edith A Reuss wrote article on “Time for the Lord.”
"Today our pastor preached on time for the Lord, but I'm just a kid, still in high school. I think he meant that for grown-ups; I'm in college now and I love it! So many new ideas! Every day I find myself passing the campus chapel and somehow it nags at me but I have so much studying to do I'm sure the Lord understands;
I'm' married now, and I love him so much! We've talked about taking time to pray together but with our jobs and housework and trying to get adjusted to each other..I don't push it just now; Three pre-schoolers! They keep me going all day and when they are finally in bed. I'm exhausted. We should have family devotions, but they're too little to understand now. I'll wait until they are older;
They're finally all in school. Now its PTA piano lesson and little league. Each day slips away from me before I know it. We never seem to be home at the same time;
Now My teens are so independent sometimes I feel I'm running a boarding house instead of a family. I suggested family prayer once and they all gave me that "Oh, Mother" look. I can't push them I guess;
The last one is married It's so quiet being just the two of us again. Now I have a job and I'm busier than ever adjusting to the business world again. When I get used to the new life then I'll have time for daily prayer and time for God;
Cancer is an ugly word no matter how kindly it is put. the hospital is a bustling place and I a steady stream of roommates, but I feel walled off and alone. I have time now . Nothing but time. I sit with my Bible open before me by my tears blur the words so I cannot read. I cannot pray! God seems so far away now. I wonder why?"
In his sermon in Ecclesiastes Solomon looks at all his accomplishments and concludes it is all for nothing. Without God life is vanity. All things that Solomon wanted were ultimately are in God's hands. All wisdom, knowledge, money, politics, authority all of it is meaningless when life lacks meaning and purpose.
When Solomon looked at the problems of the world and the injustices, the abuse of power and money life is so short lived and futile. There are two simple but often overlooked truths that Solomon talks about in Chapter 9. Death is Predictable and Life is Unpredictable. So my question is, what are we doing about it?
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Tues April 14, 2009
Verses- Eccl 9:1-3 1 So I reflected on all this and concluded that the righteous and the wise and what they do are in God's hands, but no man knows whether love or hate awaits him.
2 All share a common destiny-- the righteous and the wicked, the good and the bad, the clean and the unclean, those who offer sacrifices and those who do not. As it is with the good man, so with the sinner; as it is with those who take oaths, so with those who are afraid to take them.
3 This is the evil in everything that happens under the sun: The same destiny overtakes all. The hearts of men, moreover, are full of evil and there is madness in their hearts while they live, and afterward they join the dead.
Facing the Inevitable
Although death is not a popular subject to discuss it is a reality we cannot deny. Since Ecclesiastes addresses all subjects under the sun Solomon reflects on the inevitable. He tells us it doesn't make any different what you do, or how good or bad you are, you are going to die. It really doesn't make any different how rich, or important or unimportant you are you are, all go to the grave.
Statistically do you know what age most people die? The answer is by far the first year of life. In fact more die in the first year of life than any other combined up to 55 years of age. Yet we live in a culture that has been reluctant to face its reality makes jokes of it. The Bible calls it an enemy, for death is the price of sin in our world and all will die.
I have lead and participated in many funerals. I have found with the rise of Hospice care increasingly more study and attention has been given to addressing the needs of those with terminal illness. When I started as a chaplain in the health care field I was asked to speak on the spiritual needs of the elderly and infirmed at the Minnesota Association of Nursing Homes in the 70s. It was very well attended due to the fact very few years had such a seminar been offered in a non Christian setting. My statistics showed that the older population have an increased openness to discuss death and dying and the importance of spiritual resources than those who take care of them. Since that time the connection of health and spiritual concerns is addressed.
There are also practical matters when it comes to the inevitable. My aunt was married to a mortician. He talked with many people about preparing their funeral arrangements. He contacted leukemia. The doctors told him it was terminal. He had a prepaid burial. He purchased his wife a new car so she wouldn’t have to make those decisions when he was gone. He paid off debts and set up trusts with a lawyer. He took care of many practical matter, but with that did not provide my Aunt with his wishes regarding funeral home, services, or preferences of details of inheritances. He was better prepared than most, but there were many unanswered questions that my Aunt wished she would have asked him before he died. I had the new responsibility of taking over the planning of my Aunt’s burial and taking care of her affairs. Even though many things were in order, many things were not. Was she prepared to die?
There is lots more to being prepared than making sure you have a plot and what you want sung at your funeral. There is more to being prepared than having insurance or telling relatives where your important papers are located.
We all live under a spiritual judgment for all of us have a terminal disease-it is sin. The wages of sin is death. Solomon says it doesn't make a bit of difference if you are wicked or righteous, rich or poor, hard working or lazy, we all come to the final resting place. The reason is that no matter how good you are you are still a sinner in God's eyes. Mortality rate is still 100% We die because we are sinners. There is no one who is not.
Now some have looked at this chapter and claimed that it supports a humanistic viewpoint of death. When you're dead you're dead and there isn't anything more. That is not the theme of this book. Solomon is writing about the things under the sun. As far as this life is concerned under the sun means when our life is gone the things of this earth are all over. That is what he is saying. We are dead to this world and there is nothing more that can be done.
The reason things look bleak to Solomon is because all of his accomplishments which were great among men, lost their joy when he fell under the judgment of God. Joy comes not by what we do, but by the gift and grace of God and being in a right relationship with Him. This physical world does not offer to meet our needs in the next world. All throughout the New Testament the teaching of death and eternal life is very clear and repeated. Jesus said, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me shall never die. "
Facing the inevitable makes us sort out priorities, and to have a right relationship with Jesus Christ should be top on the list. To live for Him and for eternity seems obvious, but still many close their eyes to that which is most important.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Weds April 15, 2009
Verses Eccl 9:4-6 Anyone who is among the living has hope-- even a live dog is better off than a dead lion!
5 For the living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing; they have no further reward, and even the memory of them is forgotten.
6 Their love, their hate and their jealousy have long since vanished; never again will they have a part in anything that happens under the sun.
Work for the Night is Coming
I remember the old hymn that was sung often in a small church I attended growing up. “Work for the Night is Coming”. The three verses speaks of the importance of working “through the morning hours..through the sunny noon….under the sunset skies. The challenge is clear- “Work, when the day grows brighter, Work, in the glowing sun, Work, for the night is coming, When man's work is done.”
It was written by a farm girl of 18 years before the Civil War. It was inspired by John 9:4 when Jesus said, “I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work."
Solomon was not looking so much at the importance of work in this passage as he was the futility of life when all our work is done. He gives us a better perspective later in his writing, but if all we work for are the things of this earth it can be very futile. But with faith and hope of eternal life we need not fear death. The teachings of Jesus remind us of the value to be faithful to Christ unto death.
Whatever you're going to do, do it now, for when you die it will be too late. Hope exists as long as there is life. Just as it is predicted that all will die, so it is true that at death all decisions are completed. It is too late to do anything about eternity after the grave. This life is the time we make our peace with God or live unto our own desires. But as long as there is life there is hope.
I remember one night a college aged young person came to my door. He was full of tears. I let him cry for awhile and finally he told the story of his grandfather who had a stoke and was unconscious and not expected to live. He had a strong sense from God that he should share his faith with his grandfather, but kept putting it off. Now it was too late. After awhile I said to my friend, “Let’s pray that as long as there is life there is hope. Let's pray that somehow God might arouse you grandfather enough that he might hear the message at least for the last time.”
This man came to me a couple of days later and said, "God answered our prayer. I don't know if he understood or not, but he opened his eyes and watched me as I gave him my testimony. He answered our prayer.”
We don't know when it will be too late to tell a fiend, or loved one, neighbor or enemy, of God's saving grace. There is a possibility to respond to God; however the older one gets the more difficult it is. The more you say no to God and keep putting off a decision for Christ the less will be the desire to say yes. Resisting the Spirit of God is serious. Some people falsely think that when they get older and lived their lives they way they wanted, then they will give themselves to God. It doesn't work very often that way. Instead people become hardened to spiritual things and lose their interest because God has stopped convicting them of their need.
Are you prepared for death? For after that there is no opportunity to change what is done in this life. All the rewards that you will be acquiring in eternity will be based on what you do now. We are not saved by our works. But the Scriptures are clear about two things. When the door to the ark was shut it was too late. When the door to the wedding banquet was closed those foolish virgins could not enter. And secondly, there are rewards for the works God calls us to do as Christians. IF we are faithful to what he gives us then comes the reward when he says, "Well done thou good and faithful servant.”
Use the time we have to let God be glorified in your life while it is day, for the night comes when our work is done.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Thurs April 16, 2009
Verses- Eccl 9:7-9
7 Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart, for it is now that God favors what you do.
8 Always be clothed in white, and always anoint your head with oil.
9 Enjoy life with your wife, whom you love, all the days of this meaningless life that God has given you under the sun-- all your meaningless days. For this is your lot in life and in your toilsome labor under the sun.
Prioritize your life.
When I was a chaplain in the nursing homes I decided to be creative and put together a Thanksgiving multi media program. I interviewed residents taking their pictures in different scenes. The interview was easy. I went around asking what they were thankful for. I included some music and patriotic scenes along with their comments.
It wasn’t long before I realized the three main themes of the responses from the people. After living a long life- (most were in their 90s) what mattered most were health they did have, family, and faith. Their basic needs were met in the home. They had a shelter. They had food. They had clothes. So after those needs were met they thought on what they could enjoy as long as they had life on this earth.
1 Tim 6:8 “But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.” In light of our present economy we tend to forget the basics and concentrate of all the stuff we lost or can’t have. After awhile we are miserable. When we think of what we do have we realize we are blessed.
With death in mind Solomon concentrates on enjoying the essentials while we have them. In these three verses he is thankful for food, clothes and family. Isn’t that worth praising God today for those gifts? Enjoy them. Life might be a struggle, but there are small blessings today you might miss.
When you are spiritually prepared to enter eternity you can enjoy the time you have while on earth as gifts from God. We will speak more about this next week. Now is the time to enjoy life that God has given you to enjoy and look upon the peace and joy with Him. Some Christian think life is no fun.
I have enjoyed food too much. But when I have enjoyed food the most are usually when I have been very hungry. The longer it has been before I had eaten the better the food tastes. After I had to fast before a surgical procedure, peanut butter on toast in my post operation room never tasted as good! I was starved. It was a blessing to eat again.
A couple of weeks ago I was able to celebrate with my friend who entered retirement. We went to a fancy restaurant. The food was plentiful and delicious. I enjoyed the company and the various foods properly prepared and options that I did not have before. Feasting times at holidays, birthdays, and special occasion can be enjoyed as blessing from the Lord. I never envied the very rich who work themselves up with such stress it results in ulcers. Their food was reduced to a diet of Maalox and milk toast all the time.
Contentment with something to eat and something to wear allows anyone to thank the Lord for today. There are some who go to bed hungry and naked. Enjoy these gifts. If you can get out of bed, get dressed, comb your hair, brush your teeth, get dressed and thank the Lord. Begin your day with Him and think on the gifts He has given you today to enjoy.
Thirdly, if you have a family, love them. Appreciate them. Realize they deserve your attention and your priority next to the Lord. They are also a gift from God to you. You have a part you play in this mini-organization whether you are a son, daughter, mom, dad, sibling or in law. Recognize that no one is perfect. All need forgiveness. If God gives you a spouse, enjoy him/her while we have life, for the day will come when we will be parted. Tell them you love them today while there is time.
I asked one man how he could live with his nagging wife. His answer surprised me. “If you get a lemon, learn to make lemonade.” Put some sugar in the relationship and be the one to give love. The movie, “Fireproof” has changed relationships when we see love is a choice. Enjoy your family.
Pastor Dale
Sermon nuggets Fri April 17
Verses- Eccl 9:10 Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the grave, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.
Do it Now
This was one of the verses my Mother quoted often in the house. It was to encourage her lazy son to become more Biblical. Although, I will say she practiced what she preached. She wasn’t ADHD where she always had to be on the go, but my grandmother also would quote this verse to her. To be idle is to waste time when things could be accomplished.
Mom took up many hobbies and helped many people. She was a working mother in and out of the home. Ruth was somewhat of a perfectionist in her work and took pride in doing it right even if it meant doing it over. She didn’t comprehend my philosophy of “if you don’t see it, it doesn’t exit.” I am not talking about Spiritual things. I was talking about dirt.
Why would she move the refrigerator to regularly clean underneath? I tried to convince her no one would know it. She would retort, “I would know it. Now move that refrigerator for me.” If she was watching TV she would be crocheting, knitting, darning socks, or her favorite- doing a crossword puzzle. “That isn’t wasting time it is improving one’s mind.” She would say.
I can’t help but think of Mom when I read this verse for this is how she lived. She also loved to entertain. Fixing meals, doing dishes, or giving a hot dish to a neighbor was not work. It was serving the Lord with busy hands.
Mom was more of a Martha than a Mary. God creates them both. But like Solomon said in Chapter 3 there is a time for everything under heaven. Although he did not use this contrast, it was true in Jesus’ life. There was a time to work and a time to rest. He accomplished all he needed to accomplish in the three years of his public ministry.
I think we excuse ourselves from faithfulness by thinking we have little or no talent. But God takes what we have and uses it if we are obedient and faithful. Moses continued to shepherd for 40 years until God took that rod in his hand and it became the power rod of God. Samson took the jawbone of an ass and it became a weapon that destroyed the Philistines. Gideon took the lamp and bowl and with the power of God destroyed the Midianites.
The faithful worker is not found sleeping but working with what God has given him or her. There are many excuses for poor work. Some have a quitter’s spirit—quick to start, but have no endurance. Some are content to be mediocre—never give their best at anything, the church included. Unfortunately, some have lost their first love. The spark, enthusiasm of new birth is gone.
Most are not called to lead armies or free people from slavery, but we all are to be a witness for the Lord. We are being watched in the quality of work we do. We do what we do as unto the Lord with our work and with our rest. Col 3:23 "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward."
Pastor Dale
Theme PREPARING FOR DEATH
Verses-Ecc 9:3 This is the evil in everything that happens under the sun: The same destiny overtakes all. The hearts of men, moreover, are full of evil and there is madness in their hearts while they live, and afterward they join the dead.
The Predictability of Death
Edith A Reuss wrote article on “Time for the Lord.”
"Today our pastor preached on time for the Lord, but I'm just a kid, still in high school. I think he meant that for grown-ups; I'm in college now and I love it! So many new ideas! Every day I find myself passing the campus chapel and somehow it nags at me but I have so much studying to do I'm sure the Lord understands;
I'm' married now, and I love him so much! We've talked about taking time to pray together but with our jobs and housework and trying to get adjusted to each other..I don't push it just now; Three pre-schoolers! They keep me going all day and when they are finally in bed. I'm exhausted. We should have family devotions, but they're too little to understand now. I'll wait until they are older;
They're finally all in school. Now its PTA piano lesson and little league. Each day slips away from me before I know it. We never seem to be home at the same time;
Now My teens are so independent sometimes I feel I'm running a boarding house instead of a family. I suggested family prayer once and they all gave me that "Oh, Mother" look. I can't push them I guess;
The last one is married It's so quiet being just the two of us again. Now I have a job and I'm busier than ever adjusting to the business world again. When I get used to the new life then I'll have time for daily prayer and time for God;
Cancer is an ugly word no matter how kindly it is put. the hospital is a bustling place and I a steady stream of roommates, but I feel walled off and alone. I have time now . Nothing but time. I sit with my Bible open before me by my tears blur the words so I cannot read. I cannot pray! God seems so far away now. I wonder why?"
In his sermon in Ecclesiastes Solomon looks at all his accomplishments and concludes it is all for nothing. Without God life is vanity. All things that Solomon wanted were ultimately are in God's hands. All wisdom, knowledge, money, politics, authority all of it is meaningless when life lacks meaning and purpose.
When Solomon looked at the problems of the world and the injustices, the abuse of power and money life is so short lived and futile. There are two simple but often overlooked truths that Solomon talks about in Chapter 9. Death is Predictable and Life is Unpredictable. So my question is, what are we doing about it?
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Tues April 14, 2009
Verses- Eccl 9:1-3 1 So I reflected on all this and concluded that the righteous and the wise and what they do are in God's hands, but no man knows whether love or hate awaits him.
2 All share a common destiny-- the righteous and the wicked, the good and the bad, the clean and the unclean, those who offer sacrifices and those who do not. As it is with the good man, so with the sinner; as it is with those who take oaths, so with those who are afraid to take them.
3 This is the evil in everything that happens under the sun: The same destiny overtakes all. The hearts of men, moreover, are full of evil and there is madness in their hearts while they live, and afterward they join the dead.
Facing the Inevitable
Although death is not a popular subject to discuss it is a reality we cannot deny. Since Ecclesiastes addresses all subjects under the sun Solomon reflects on the inevitable. He tells us it doesn't make any different what you do, or how good or bad you are, you are going to die. It really doesn't make any different how rich, or important or unimportant you are you are, all go to the grave.
Statistically do you know what age most people die? The answer is by far the first year of life. In fact more die in the first year of life than any other combined up to 55 years of age. Yet we live in a culture that has been reluctant to face its reality makes jokes of it. The Bible calls it an enemy, for death is the price of sin in our world and all will die.
I have lead and participated in many funerals. I have found with the rise of Hospice care increasingly more study and attention has been given to addressing the needs of those with terminal illness. When I started as a chaplain in the health care field I was asked to speak on the spiritual needs of the elderly and infirmed at the Minnesota Association of Nursing Homes in the 70s. It was very well attended due to the fact very few years had such a seminar been offered in a non Christian setting. My statistics showed that the older population have an increased openness to discuss death and dying and the importance of spiritual resources than those who take care of them. Since that time the connection of health and spiritual concerns is addressed.
There are also practical matters when it comes to the inevitable. My aunt was married to a mortician. He talked with many people about preparing their funeral arrangements. He contacted leukemia. The doctors told him it was terminal. He had a prepaid burial. He purchased his wife a new car so she wouldn’t have to make those decisions when he was gone. He paid off debts and set up trusts with a lawyer. He took care of many practical matter, but with that did not provide my Aunt with his wishes regarding funeral home, services, or preferences of details of inheritances. He was better prepared than most, but there were many unanswered questions that my Aunt wished she would have asked him before he died. I had the new responsibility of taking over the planning of my Aunt’s burial and taking care of her affairs. Even though many things were in order, many things were not. Was she prepared to die?
There is lots more to being prepared than making sure you have a plot and what you want sung at your funeral. There is more to being prepared than having insurance or telling relatives where your important papers are located.
We all live under a spiritual judgment for all of us have a terminal disease-it is sin. The wages of sin is death. Solomon says it doesn't make a bit of difference if you are wicked or righteous, rich or poor, hard working or lazy, we all come to the final resting place. The reason is that no matter how good you are you are still a sinner in God's eyes. Mortality rate is still 100% We die because we are sinners. There is no one who is not.
Now some have looked at this chapter and claimed that it supports a humanistic viewpoint of death. When you're dead you're dead and there isn't anything more. That is not the theme of this book. Solomon is writing about the things under the sun. As far as this life is concerned under the sun means when our life is gone the things of this earth are all over. That is what he is saying. We are dead to this world and there is nothing more that can be done.
The reason things look bleak to Solomon is because all of his accomplishments which were great among men, lost their joy when he fell under the judgment of God. Joy comes not by what we do, but by the gift and grace of God and being in a right relationship with Him. This physical world does not offer to meet our needs in the next world. All throughout the New Testament the teaching of death and eternal life is very clear and repeated. Jesus said, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me shall never die. "
Facing the inevitable makes us sort out priorities, and to have a right relationship with Jesus Christ should be top on the list. To live for Him and for eternity seems obvious, but still many close their eyes to that which is most important.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Weds April 15, 2009
Verses Eccl 9:4-6 Anyone who is among the living has hope-- even a live dog is better off than a dead lion!
5 For the living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing; they have no further reward, and even the memory of them is forgotten.
6 Their love, their hate and their jealousy have long since vanished; never again will they have a part in anything that happens under the sun.
Work for the Night is Coming
I remember the old hymn that was sung often in a small church I attended growing up. “Work for the Night is Coming”. The three verses speaks of the importance of working “through the morning hours..through the sunny noon….under the sunset skies. The challenge is clear- “Work, when the day grows brighter, Work, in the glowing sun, Work, for the night is coming, When man's work is done.”
It was written by a farm girl of 18 years before the Civil War. It was inspired by John 9:4 when Jesus said, “I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work."
Solomon was not looking so much at the importance of work in this passage as he was the futility of life when all our work is done. He gives us a better perspective later in his writing, but if all we work for are the things of this earth it can be very futile. But with faith and hope of eternal life we need not fear death. The teachings of Jesus remind us of the value to be faithful to Christ unto death.
Whatever you're going to do, do it now, for when you die it will be too late. Hope exists as long as there is life. Just as it is predicted that all will die, so it is true that at death all decisions are completed. It is too late to do anything about eternity after the grave. This life is the time we make our peace with God or live unto our own desires. But as long as there is life there is hope.
I remember one night a college aged young person came to my door. He was full of tears. I let him cry for awhile and finally he told the story of his grandfather who had a stoke and was unconscious and not expected to live. He had a strong sense from God that he should share his faith with his grandfather, but kept putting it off. Now it was too late. After awhile I said to my friend, “Let’s pray that as long as there is life there is hope. Let's pray that somehow God might arouse you grandfather enough that he might hear the message at least for the last time.”
This man came to me a couple of days later and said, "God answered our prayer. I don't know if he understood or not, but he opened his eyes and watched me as I gave him my testimony. He answered our prayer.”
We don't know when it will be too late to tell a fiend, or loved one, neighbor or enemy, of God's saving grace. There is a possibility to respond to God; however the older one gets the more difficult it is. The more you say no to God and keep putting off a decision for Christ the less will be the desire to say yes. Resisting the Spirit of God is serious. Some people falsely think that when they get older and lived their lives they way they wanted, then they will give themselves to God. It doesn't work very often that way. Instead people become hardened to spiritual things and lose their interest because God has stopped convicting them of their need.
Are you prepared for death? For after that there is no opportunity to change what is done in this life. All the rewards that you will be acquiring in eternity will be based on what you do now. We are not saved by our works. But the Scriptures are clear about two things. When the door to the ark was shut it was too late. When the door to the wedding banquet was closed those foolish virgins could not enter. And secondly, there are rewards for the works God calls us to do as Christians. IF we are faithful to what he gives us then comes the reward when he says, "Well done thou good and faithful servant.”
Use the time we have to let God be glorified in your life while it is day, for the night comes when our work is done.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Thurs April 16, 2009
Verses- Eccl 9:7-9
7 Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart, for it is now that God favors what you do.
8 Always be clothed in white, and always anoint your head with oil.
9 Enjoy life with your wife, whom you love, all the days of this meaningless life that God has given you under the sun-- all your meaningless days. For this is your lot in life and in your toilsome labor under the sun.
Prioritize your life.
When I was a chaplain in the nursing homes I decided to be creative and put together a Thanksgiving multi media program. I interviewed residents taking their pictures in different scenes. The interview was easy. I went around asking what they were thankful for. I included some music and patriotic scenes along with their comments.
It wasn’t long before I realized the three main themes of the responses from the people. After living a long life- (most were in their 90s) what mattered most were health they did have, family, and faith. Their basic needs were met in the home. They had a shelter. They had food. They had clothes. So after those needs were met they thought on what they could enjoy as long as they had life on this earth.
1 Tim 6:8 “But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.” In light of our present economy we tend to forget the basics and concentrate of all the stuff we lost or can’t have. After awhile we are miserable. When we think of what we do have we realize we are blessed.
With death in mind Solomon concentrates on enjoying the essentials while we have them. In these three verses he is thankful for food, clothes and family. Isn’t that worth praising God today for those gifts? Enjoy them. Life might be a struggle, but there are small blessings today you might miss.
When you are spiritually prepared to enter eternity you can enjoy the time you have while on earth as gifts from God. We will speak more about this next week. Now is the time to enjoy life that God has given you to enjoy and look upon the peace and joy with Him. Some Christian think life is no fun.
I have enjoyed food too much. But when I have enjoyed food the most are usually when I have been very hungry. The longer it has been before I had eaten the better the food tastes. After I had to fast before a surgical procedure, peanut butter on toast in my post operation room never tasted as good! I was starved. It was a blessing to eat again.
A couple of weeks ago I was able to celebrate with my friend who entered retirement. We went to a fancy restaurant. The food was plentiful and delicious. I enjoyed the company and the various foods properly prepared and options that I did not have before. Feasting times at holidays, birthdays, and special occasion can be enjoyed as blessing from the Lord. I never envied the very rich who work themselves up with such stress it results in ulcers. Their food was reduced to a diet of Maalox and milk toast all the time.
Contentment with something to eat and something to wear allows anyone to thank the Lord for today. There are some who go to bed hungry and naked. Enjoy these gifts. If you can get out of bed, get dressed, comb your hair, brush your teeth, get dressed and thank the Lord. Begin your day with Him and think on the gifts He has given you today to enjoy.
Thirdly, if you have a family, love them. Appreciate them. Realize they deserve your attention and your priority next to the Lord. They are also a gift from God to you. You have a part you play in this mini-organization whether you are a son, daughter, mom, dad, sibling or in law. Recognize that no one is perfect. All need forgiveness. If God gives you a spouse, enjoy him/her while we have life, for the day will come when we will be parted. Tell them you love them today while there is time.
I asked one man how he could live with his nagging wife. His answer surprised me. “If you get a lemon, learn to make lemonade.” Put some sugar in the relationship and be the one to give love. The movie, “Fireproof” has changed relationships when we see love is a choice. Enjoy your family.
Pastor Dale
Sermon nuggets Fri April 17
Verses- Eccl 9:10 Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the grave, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.
Do it Now
This was one of the verses my Mother quoted often in the house. It was to encourage her lazy son to become more Biblical. Although, I will say she practiced what she preached. She wasn’t ADHD where she always had to be on the go, but my grandmother also would quote this verse to her. To be idle is to waste time when things could be accomplished.
Mom took up many hobbies and helped many people. She was a working mother in and out of the home. Ruth was somewhat of a perfectionist in her work and took pride in doing it right even if it meant doing it over. She didn’t comprehend my philosophy of “if you don’t see it, it doesn’t exit.” I am not talking about Spiritual things. I was talking about dirt.
Why would she move the refrigerator to regularly clean underneath? I tried to convince her no one would know it. She would retort, “I would know it. Now move that refrigerator for me.” If she was watching TV she would be crocheting, knitting, darning socks, or her favorite- doing a crossword puzzle. “That isn’t wasting time it is improving one’s mind.” She would say.
I can’t help but think of Mom when I read this verse for this is how she lived. She also loved to entertain. Fixing meals, doing dishes, or giving a hot dish to a neighbor was not work. It was serving the Lord with busy hands.
Mom was more of a Martha than a Mary. God creates them both. But like Solomon said in Chapter 3 there is a time for everything under heaven. Although he did not use this contrast, it was true in Jesus’ life. There was a time to work and a time to rest. He accomplished all he needed to accomplish in the three years of his public ministry.
I think we excuse ourselves from faithfulness by thinking we have little or no talent. But God takes what we have and uses it if we are obedient and faithful. Moses continued to shepherd for 40 years until God took that rod in his hand and it became the power rod of God. Samson took the jawbone of an ass and it became a weapon that destroyed the Philistines. Gideon took the lamp and bowl and with the power of God destroyed the Midianites.
The faithful worker is not found sleeping but working with what God has given him or her. There are many excuses for poor work. Some have a quitter’s spirit—quick to start, but have no endurance. Some are content to be mediocre—never give their best at anything, the church included. Unfortunately, some have lost their first love. The spark, enthusiasm of new birth is gone.
Most are not called to lead armies or free people from slavery, but we all are to be a witness for the Lord. We are being watched in the quality of work we do. We do what we do as unto the Lord with our work and with our rest. Col 3:23 "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward."
Pastor Dale
Friday, April 10, 2009
Authority and Wisdom Ecclesastes 8
Sermon nuggets Week of April 6 Ecclesiastes 8
Eccl 8:1-17
Sermon Nuggets Mon April 6
Verses Eccl 8:1,2 Who is like the wise man? Who knows the explanation of things? Wisdom brightens a man's face and changes its hard appearance.
Obey the king's command, I say, because you took an oath before God.
Authority and Wisdom
One little girl was told by her mother at their kitchen table to be seated. She didn't want to sit. The mother explained she needed to sit at the table and not stand. The daughter continued to stand. Finally the mother gave her a choice of being seated, or getting a swat. Disgusted the child sat and said firmly, "I might be seated on the outside, but I'm standing in the inside."
This morning the subject is authority and submission. There are many things we do out of compulsion, not out of desire. If there was one word many would like to remove from the Bible it might be the word, submission. Typically we do not like to submit to any authority, but that is the basis by which society can operate without chaos. In our individualist mindset we want to grant authority to those we deem worthy to receive it and not to those whom we feel do not deserve it. But let’s face it, from the moment we are born until we die there are people in authority over us. Parents and babysitters have responsibility for our care and our discipline as children. Teachers must have authority in the classroom of learning. We have laws and rules to govern our communities and they are established by procedures that govern the legislature and leaders.
But just because someone might have the position of authority doesn’t mean we grant them that authority in our lives. People continually defy rules and laws. We do not always obey those in charge. We might be convinced to do so if it seems to be for our good. But there is this streak within where we think, “No one is going to tell me what to do.”
We resent it if a policeman stops us for going a few miles over the speed limit, but are grateful when there is a disturbance and we want his protection. Young people resent parents authority when they put limitations on their activities, but are happy to partake of their benefits of food, laundry, money and a place to sleep. The Armed Forces provide security and defense but with it comes polished shoes short hair, boot camp and undo hassles from the drill sergeant. We pay them with our tax money.
But what rules and laws ought to govern our morals? There is a growing trend society that each does what is right in his own eyes. This is nothing new, of course. This was the way life was in the days of the Judges from the Old Testament. The philosophy of relativism and pluralism sets up personal opinion guiding our choices and actions.
All throughout our existence we are going to be in conflict with the benefits and the limitation of authority. Yet, we cannot begin to experience spiritual growth until we learn the lesson of submission.
God's word has important instructions- "Children obey your parents, slaves be submission to your masters, wives to subject to your husbands. Be subject to the rulers and authorities, submit yourselves one unto another.” The church is subject to Christ. And in the end the Bible teaches “every knee shall bow and every tongue declare that Jesus is Lord to the glory of God the Father"
Solomon teaches wisdom about authority. We will look more closely at that this week.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Tues April 7, 2009
Verses Eccl 8:1-6 Who is like the wise man? Who knows the explanation of things? Wisdom brightens a man's face and changes its hard appearance.
Obey the king's command, I say, because you took an oath before God. Do not be in a hurry to leave the king's presence. Do not stand up for a bad cause, for he will do whatever he pleases.
Since a king's word is supreme, who can say to him, "What are you doing?"
Whoever obeys his command will come to no harm, and the wise heart will know the proper time and procedure. For there is a proper time and procedure for every matter, though a man's misery weighs heavily upon him.
Proper Authority
Because God is a God of order He ordained people to be used to maintain order. But the Bible is clear. All authority comes from God. The concept of leadership and submission comes from our Creator. Solomon is sharing facts. There is a king; like him or not. He does what he wants; like it or not. It will go best if you obey him.
I had read about a new TV program called “Kings” inspired by the stories of King Saul and King David. It is put in a modern day setting and certainly veers far from the Biblical account. But I did watch a few episodes. It illustrates the power of a king who does what he wants. To the credit of the producer the character also acknowledges that God is the power that allowed the king to have his position. When power goes to his head his authority may continue for awhile, but the steps of the future are in the hands of God.
There is a God; like Him or not. He does what He wants; like it or not. And it will go best if you learn to obey Him. Human government is inaugurated by God. Having civil authority is an absolutely necessary because of fallen, deprived and sinful mankind. We must have a restraint on our evil tendencies. God has therefore authorized human ruling powers in countries, kingdoms and nations to make and enforce laws for the sake of order and public welfare. If any society is going to exist it needs to have rules and someone to enforce those rules or there is chaos and anarchy.
Romans 13:1-3 says, “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.
Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.
For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you.”(NIV)
When the newspaper speaks of increased burglaries in Cambridge, and vandalism in Braham, I am glad we have laws and civil authorities that can investigate and arrest the guilty parties. Others in authority to create laws and judge whose who brake laws help us making it a punishable crime when peole steal and vandalize and rape, and abuse others. We must not kill and pollute, and speed that might endanger other lives. We must stop at red lights, and keep the noise down after a certain time in the evening, so we might better live in peace. God ordained government to protect, prosecute and execute civil justice for the peace and welfare of its citizens. To the degree they seek to carry out that divine purpose we must submit.
Verses 5& 6 remind us it is wise to obey. We will have an easier time of it. We see this not only in civil government, but also in school, on the job, in all organizations. If you have a boss and she is in authority over you. When you are submissive to her wishes that are appropriate to the job, you will be more blessed as an employee. A good worker seeks the best interest by generally doing her work conscientiously, honestly, and quickly.
Now there are ways that labor and management can negotiate. Employees do have rights. We do not live in slavery like in Solomon’s day without any rights or recourse to stand against injustice. That is true in many countries today. Too often we receive goods from third world countries that have slave labor, or as close to it as possible.
When a youngster obeys his parents, what do you think his parents’ response will be? When an employee is cooperative he or she is honored.
v. 6 reminds us there are also wise citizens who learn the right time and place to provide proper influence on those in authority. Seldom is it in confrontation, but in seeking solutions to make it go easy for all parties involved. Many wise employees learn to reason with their bosses when they are in calmer moods. Most know the times and places for negotiations in respectful and polite manners.
Daniel was just such a man of wisdom who humbly and respectfully submitted the authority King of Babylon and palace guards and made friends while demonstrating allegiance to God. Joseph did the same thing. The kings saw honest character, humble spirit, effective work, loyalty and God used them to influence those in authority for Godly ways.
As Christian citizens, make your views known. Since we are allowed the opportunity for voice, write congressmen, attend local meetings, even protest with respect and reason. But it is wise to obey the laws, unless those laws come in conflict with the laws of God.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Weds April 8, 2009
Verses-Eccl 8: 7-9 Since no man knows the future, who can tell him what is to come?
8 No man has power over the wind to contain it; so no one has power over the day of his death. As no one is discharged in time of war, so wickedness will not release those who practice it.
9 All this I saw, as I applied my mind to everything done under the sun. There is a time when a man lords it over others to his own hurt.
Limited Authority
We discussed proper authority ordained by God yesterday- government has the right to collect taxes, protect citizens, take care of fire emergencies, build and maintain roads, maintain military and assist in welfare and social services; but no authority in this world is all knowing. All the promises of politicians are just wishful thinking. Our wisest economists are not all that wise. There are things constantly occurring especially today that just do not fit the economic rules.
There are no easy answers to complex questions. There is no president, senator, or political leader that is right all the time, because none of us are omniscient. There is no pastor who doesn't make mistakes; there is no boss who makes decisions that are right all the time. We do not know the future and furthermore there are areas leaders stick their noses in where frankly it does not belong.
Authority is for a prescribed purpose, but it does not extend beyond what is God's intent. There will be mistakes, so learn to forgive and learn to be humble.
The danger of proper authority is that it often does not recognize when their authority is limited. The policeman who has authority is also under authority. He cannot be judge and jury to a criminal he is arresting. The problem with congressmen is the have authority but cannot take their authority to areas beyond their jurisdiction. But their authority is also subjected to certain laws and rules. A democracy states that the common citizen has rights under the law that the president himself cannot overrule. The court systems are provided so laws can be followed and prescribed ways can be accomplished to determine guilt and innocence. It does not always work.
We must be aware of limited authority. 1) Limited in wisdom, they don't know everything so don't always make the best decisions
2) Limited in power; even though they have authority they may not have the power. Someone said the rebel with the gun may have power, but not authority. Jesus told Pilate that when he was being judged falsely.
3) Authority is limited in that is it also under authority if no one else, at least to God, for He alone has all power and all wisdom and is the final authority.
Solomon is reminding us only God knows all things. Only God controls the winds and the storms and all power is in his hands. Only God can forgive sin. That is why we can look to Jesus and call him our Lord first and foremost. He knows the future. Jesus alone could call the winds and the waves and they would obey. He did have power of the day of his own death and conquered death and arose victorious over the grave. Jesus alone could say to people "thy sins are forgiven you"
Now when it comes to earthly activity how do we respond to limited authority?
I think we need to recognize it. I think we need to pray. I Tim 2:2 “Pray for those in authority over you.” Pray for all people and for our rulers and not just criticize. I've heard lots of complaints concerning our president, concerning our senators, concerning our governor, concerning our representatives, but for all officials, you need to pray.
There are complaints about your boss, about your teacher, about your parents, about your spouse, about your school, about your pastor and church, about any in leadership positions. Recognize their authority is limited. God is in charge, and pray for them.
Thank you so much for those of you who continue to pray for your pastors, keep doing do. Recognize we are so limited and needy and dependent on the true one who has all authority. Our tasks is to point each other to Him.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets April 9 2009
Verses- Eccl 8:9-11,14
9 All this I saw, as I applied my mind to everything done under the sun. There is a time when a man lords it over others to his own hurt.
10 Then too, I saw the wicked buried-- those who used to come and go from the holy place and receive praise in the city where they did this. This too is meaningless.
11 When the sentence for a crime is not quickly carried out, the hearts of the people are filled with schemes to do wrong.
14 There is something else meaningless that occurs on earth: righteous men who get what the wicked deserve, and wicked men who get what the righteous deserve. This too, I say, is meaningless.
Abused Authority
Unfortunately with authority comes abuse. Power goes to one’s head when he inflicts injustice an another. It may not be for profit, but just the fact of power. There is the constant temptation of leaders to misuse their position for selfish purposes or pride. It is easy for public servants to become public masters. That is another reason why leaders need our prayers.
I read a story of one of the hired hands working on Teddy Roosevelt’s ranch in North Dakota. He captured a maverick, wild animal on another man's land. According to the law it belonged to the neighbor. Roosevelt’s cowhand was about to put his boss’s brand on. Teddy Roosevelt stopped him and fired him on the spot. He explained "Any man who will steal for me, will steal from me."
I don't understand companies who try to get sales representatives misrepresent the product for they are encouraging liars and dishonest persons as employees and will fail one way or the other sooner or later.
We are troubled when some congressmen think their position is above the law and have the liberty to write bad checks without consequences, using expense accounts for personal use, billing telephones for private use, taking personal trips at government expense. Some are seeking sexual favors with employees. It is horrible abuse of authority when police can beat up people they arrest unmercifully, when doctors change their medical records to cover up their errors. It is an abuse of authority when the wicked are rewarded for their actions and the righteous are punished.
When government exceeds God's authority and promotes ungodly results then it ceases to be legitimate authority and must be corrected, or disobeyed, if contrary to Gods laws. When those in authority fail to see they are under the greater heavenly authority the apostle Peter stated, “We must obey God rather than man.” It is the same principle when your employer asks you to do dishonest things, or when parents abuse their children and instead of protecting them and caring for them. Sexual and physical abuse results when empowered people seek to get their way.
Solomon says he sees cruelty done and lording it over others to their own hurt. He's seen wicked buried and then listened to their eulogy. Many wicked are praised at death, but they will be facing the one who has final authority and then it's too late to change.
If all authority is granted by God, that doesn’t mean all things a person in that position is allowed by God. Some day there will be an accounting of how each does his or her work.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Fri April 10, 2009
Eccl 8:12-17 Although a wicked man commits a hundred crimes and still lives a long time, I know that it will go better with God-fearing men, who are reverent before God.
13 Yet because the wicked do not fear God, it will not go well with them, and their days will not lengthen like a shadow.
15 So I commend the enjoyment of life, because nothing is better for a man under the sun than to eat and drink and be glad. Then joy will accompany him in his work all the days of the life God has given him under the sun.
16 When I applied my mind to know wisdom and to observe man's labor on earth-- his eyes not seeing sleep day or night--then I saw all that God has done. No one can comprehend what goes on under the sun. Despite all his efforts to search it out, man cannot discover its meaning. Even if a wise man claims he knows, he cannot really comprehend it.
Divine Authority
Lastly, the writer reminds us there is divine authority. The preacher realizes that God ordained proper human authority, which makes that indirectly divine authority. We observed all those in authority have limited authority. That is why leaders need prayer. We also see many in power will abuse their leadership. But ultimately God will hold into account all who are in authority as well as those under authority. We need to strongly support people that will carry out justice, help those who are in need, have a just tax, and not abuse power. We need responsible leadership. But never to forget that ultimately our submission and authority is to God. But also remember all humans will fall short of the ideal. All of us will make mistakes.
Who of us as parents at times fall short of the authority granted to us by God? We do not always make wise decisions for the benefit of our family or children. This is a reminder that we are not only under Gods’ authority but need to evaluate our position and responsibility with humility and confession.
Yes, it is true there are people who can get away with crime and sin and do things that are not right. But never forget, God has the last word. Solomon knows it will go better also on this earth with God fearing men, for they have the spirit of God within them, even during the difficulties of our days. King Solomon is mindful that when people do not fear God it will not go well with them and “their days will not lengthen like a shadow" You cannot fool God. He is just.
Those who have been declared righteous, regardless what has happened in their lives, will be rewarded by God, our great and holy judge. Wisdom comes from the fear of the Lord.
Look at vs. 15 Solomon says since there are many things we are blind to, and since God is ultimately in charge, live a life of faith and truth and trust in God. When we seek to live for Christ then joy will come and blessings with the provisions we know comes as a gift from above. Our food and our drink are provisions from God. Enjoy them.
Our Lord gives us this world to enjoy. It is best enjoyed when we put Him as the final authority in our lives, in our work, in our church, in our country. All that we receive are gifts from above. Be glad and full of joy in this life. Thank Him for your daily provisions. Thank Him for your family, friends, air, spring, clothes, and cars. Thank Him for He has given Himself to you and is the Divine Authority that operates out of glory for Him and love for you.
Do you have that peace? Because of the authority of heaven, Jesus bought us unto Himself. He is our Lord and King. We have a Lord whose authority is over all of nature, heaven, hell, principalities above and below. All human authority is in his hand. He seeks to work out good if we submit and obey our king Jesus. Our wisdom is so limited (16-17) When we see all God has done, who can understand or comprehend it all?
Isn't it a curious thing that Jesus, who has all authority, humbled himself into the position of a servant? Isn't it a bit odd that the Lord of the universe took on the form of a man and became servant of all? Why is it that Jesus would say, "He would be first shall be last, and the last shall be first." Why when Jesus was teaching his disciples on leadership say in Mark 10:43 You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you, Instead whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whosoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
Because Jesus understood the plan, and the future, He was able to be under authority and carry out our salvation. He who is the best authority is one who has learned to be under authority. The kind of leader we are instructed to be is the leader who is concerned for those for whom he is responsible, their task, their lord, and in humility draw upon the wisdom from the one his is the divine authority. The best leaders are those who model Jesus Christ. The best leader is Jesus Christ.
As we conclude as yourself this question, "Is he Lord over your life?"
Pastor Dale
Eccl 8:1-17
Sermon Nuggets Mon April 6
Verses Eccl 8:1,2 Who is like the wise man? Who knows the explanation of things? Wisdom brightens a man's face and changes its hard appearance.
Obey the king's command, I say, because you took an oath before God.
Authority and Wisdom
One little girl was told by her mother at their kitchen table to be seated. She didn't want to sit. The mother explained she needed to sit at the table and not stand. The daughter continued to stand. Finally the mother gave her a choice of being seated, or getting a swat. Disgusted the child sat and said firmly, "I might be seated on the outside, but I'm standing in the inside."
This morning the subject is authority and submission. There are many things we do out of compulsion, not out of desire. If there was one word many would like to remove from the Bible it might be the word, submission. Typically we do not like to submit to any authority, but that is the basis by which society can operate without chaos. In our individualist mindset we want to grant authority to those we deem worthy to receive it and not to those whom we feel do not deserve it. But let’s face it, from the moment we are born until we die there are people in authority over us. Parents and babysitters have responsibility for our care and our discipline as children. Teachers must have authority in the classroom of learning. We have laws and rules to govern our communities and they are established by procedures that govern the legislature and leaders.
But just because someone might have the position of authority doesn’t mean we grant them that authority in our lives. People continually defy rules and laws. We do not always obey those in charge. We might be convinced to do so if it seems to be for our good. But there is this streak within where we think, “No one is going to tell me what to do.”
We resent it if a policeman stops us for going a few miles over the speed limit, but are grateful when there is a disturbance and we want his protection. Young people resent parents authority when they put limitations on their activities, but are happy to partake of their benefits of food, laundry, money and a place to sleep. The Armed Forces provide security and defense but with it comes polished shoes short hair, boot camp and undo hassles from the drill sergeant. We pay them with our tax money.
But what rules and laws ought to govern our morals? There is a growing trend society that each does what is right in his own eyes. This is nothing new, of course. This was the way life was in the days of the Judges from the Old Testament. The philosophy of relativism and pluralism sets up personal opinion guiding our choices and actions.
All throughout our existence we are going to be in conflict with the benefits and the limitation of authority. Yet, we cannot begin to experience spiritual growth until we learn the lesson of submission.
God's word has important instructions- "Children obey your parents, slaves be submission to your masters, wives to subject to your husbands. Be subject to the rulers and authorities, submit yourselves one unto another.” The church is subject to Christ. And in the end the Bible teaches “every knee shall bow and every tongue declare that Jesus is Lord to the glory of God the Father"
Solomon teaches wisdom about authority. We will look more closely at that this week.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Tues April 7, 2009
Verses Eccl 8:1-6 Who is like the wise man? Who knows the explanation of things? Wisdom brightens a man's face and changes its hard appearance.
Obey the king's command, I say, because you took an oath before God. Do not be in a hurry to leave the king's presence. Do not stand up for a bad cause, for he will do whatever he pleases.
Since a king's word is supreme, who can say to him, "What are you doing?"
Whoever obeys his command will come to no harm, and the wise heart will know the proper time and procedure. For there is a proper time and procedure for every matter, though a man's misery weighs heavily upon him.
Proper Authority
Because God is a God of order He ordained people to be used to maintain order. But the Bible is clear. All authority comes from God. The concept of leadership and submission comes from our Creator. Solomon is sharing facts. There is a king; like him or not. He does what he wants; like it or not. It will go best if you obey him.
I had read about a new TV program called “Kings” inspired by the stories of King Saul and King David. It is put in a modern day setting and certainly veers far from the Biblical account. But I did watch a few episodes. It illustrates the power of a king who does what he wants. To the credit of the producer the character also acknowledges that God is the power that allowed the king to have his position. When power goes to his head his authority may continue for awhile, but the steps of the future are in the hands of God.
There is a God; like Him or not. He does what He wants; like it or not. And it will go best if you learn to obey Him. Human government is inaugurated by God. Having civil authority is an absolutely necessary because of fallen, deprived and sinful mankind. We must have a restraint on our evil tendencies. God has therefore authorized human ruling powers in countries, kingdoms and nations to make and enforce laws for the sake of order and public welfare. If any society is going to exist it needs to have rules and someone to enforce those rules or there is chaos and anarchy.
Romans 13:1-3 says, “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.
Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.
For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you.”(NIV)
When the newspaper speaks of increased burglaries in Cambridge, and vandalism in Braham, I am glad we have laws and civil authorities that can investigate and arrest the guilty parties. Others in authority to create laws and judge whose who brake laws help us making it a punishable crime when peole steal and vandalize and rape, and abuse others. We must not kill and pollute, and speed that might endanger other lives. We must stop at red lights, and keep the noise down after a certain time in the evening, so we might better live in peace. God ordained government to protect, prosecute and execute civil justice for the peace and welfare of its citizens. To the degree they seek to carry out that divine purpose we must submit.
Verses 5& 6 remind us it is wise to obey. We will have an easier time of it. We see this not only in civil government, but also in school, on the job, in all organizations. If you have a boss and she is in authority over you. When you are submissive to her wishes that are appropriate to the job, you will be more blessed as an employee. A good worker seeks the best interest by generally doing her work conscientiously, honestly, and quickly.
Now there are ways that labor and management can negotiate. Employees do have rights. We do not live in slavery like in Solomon’s day without any rights or recourse to stand against injustice. That is true in many countries today. Too often we receive goods from third world countries that have slave labor, or as close to it as possible.
When a youngster obeys his parents, what do you think his parents’ response will be? When an employee is cooperative he or she is honored.
v. 6 reminds us there are also wise citizens who learn the right time and place to provide proper influence on those in authority. Seldom is it in confrontation, but in seeking solutions to make it go easy for all parties involved. Many wise employees learn to reason with their bosses when they are in calmer moods. Most know the times and places for negotiations in respectful and polite manners.
Daniel was just such a man of wisdom who humbly and respectfully submitted the authority King of Babylon and palace guards and made friends while demonstrating allegiance to God. Joseph did the same thing. The kings saw honest character, humble spirit, effective work, loyalty and God used them to influence those in authority for Godly ways.
As Christian citizens, make your views known. Since we are allowed the opportunity for voice, write congressmen, attend local meetings, even protest with respect and reason. But it is wise to obey the laws, unless those laws come in conflict with the laws of God.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Weds April 8, 2009
Verses-Eccl 8: 7-9 Since no man knows the future, who can tell him what is to come?
8 No man has power over the wind to contain it; so no one has power over the day of his death. As no one is discharged in time of war, so wickedness will not release those who practice it.
9 All this I saw, as I applied my mind to everything done under the sun. There is a time when a man lords it over others to his own hurt.
Limited Authority
We discussed proper authority ordained by God yesterday- government has the right to collect taxes, protect citizens, take care of fire emergencies, build and maintain roads, maintain military and assist in welfare and social services; but no authority in this world is all knowing. All the promises of politicians are just wishful thinking. Our wisest economists are not all that wise. There are things constantly occurring especially today that just do not fit the economic rules.
There are no easy answers to complex questions. There is no president, senator, or political leader that is right all the time, because none of us are omniscient. There is no pastor who doesn't make mistakes; there is no boss who makes decisions that are right all the time. We do not know the future and furthermore there are areas leaders stick their noses in where frankly it does not belong.
Authority is for a prescribed purpose, but it does not extend beyond what is God's intent. There will be mistakes, so learn to forgive and learn to be humble.
The danger of proper authority is that it often does not recognize when their authority is limited. The policeman who has authority is also under authority. He cannot be judge and jury to a criminal he is arresting. The problem with congressmen is the have authority but cannot take their authority to areas beyond their jurisdiction. But their authority is also subjected to certain laws and rules. A democracy states that the common citizen has rights under the law that the president himself cannot overrule. The court systems are provided so laws can be followed and prescribed ways can be accomplished to determine guilt and innocence. It does not always work.
We must be aware of limited authority. 1) Limited in wisdom, they don't know everything so don't always make the best decisions
2) Limited in power; even though they have authority they may not have the power. Someone said the rebel with the gun may have power, but not authority. Jesus told Pilate that when he was being judged falsely.
3) Authority is limited in that is it also under authority if no one else, at least to God, for He alone has all power and all wisdom and is the final authority.
Solomon is reminding us only God knows all things. Only God controls the winds and the storms and all power is in his hands. Only God can forgive sin. That is why we can look to Jesus and call him our Lord first and foremost. He knows the future. Jesus alone could call the winds and the waves and they would obey. He did have power of the day of his own death and conquered death and arose victorious over the grave. Jesus alone could say to people "thy sins are forgiven you"
Now when it comes to earthly activity how do we respond to limited authority?
I think we need to recognize it. I think we need to pray. I Tim 2:2 “Pray for those in authority over you.” Pray for all people and for our rulers and not just criticize. I've heard lots of complaints concerning our president, concerning our senators, concerning our governor, concerning our representatives, but for all officials, you need to pray.
There are complaints about your boss, about your teacher, about your parents, about your spouse, about your school, about your pastor and church, about any in leadership positions. Recognize their authority is limited. God is in charge, and pray for them.
Thank you so much for those of you who continue to pray for your pastors, keep doing do. Recognize we are so limited and needy and dependent on the true one who has all authority. Our tasks is to point each other to Him.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets April 9 2009
Verses- Eccl 8:9-11,14
9 All this I saw, as I applied my mind to everything done under the sun. There is a time when a man lords it over others to his own hurt.
10 Then too, I saw the wicked buried-- those who used to come and go from the holy place and receive praise in the city where they did this. This too is meaningless.
11 When the sentence for a crime is not quickly carried out, the hearts of the people are filled with schemes to do wrong.
14 There is something else meaningless that occurs on earth: righteous men who get what the wicked deserve, and wicked men who get what the righteous deserve. This too, I say, is meaningless.
Abused Authority
Unfortunately with authority comes abuse. Power goes to one’s head when he inflicts injustice an another. It may not be for profit, but just the fact of power. There is the constant temptation of leaders to misuse their position for selfish purposes or pride. It is easy for public servants to become public masters. That is another reason why leaders need our prayers.
I read a story of one of the hired hands working on Teddy Roosevelt’s ranch in North Dakota. He captured a maverick, wild animal on another man's land. According to the law it belonged to the neighbor. Roosevelt’s cowhand was about to put his boss’s brand on. Teddy Roosevelt stopped him and fired him on the spot. He explained "Any man who will steal for me, will steal from me."
I don't understand companies who try to get sales representatives misrepresent the product for they are encouraging liars and dishonest persons as employees and will fail one way or the other sooner or later.
We are troubled when some congressmen think their position is above the law and have the liberty to write bad checks without consequences, using expense accounts for personal use, billing telephones for private use, taking personal trips at government expense. Some are seeking sexual favors with employees. It is horrible abuse of authority when police can beat up people they arrest unmercifully, when doctors change their medical records to cover up their errors. It is an abuse of authority when the wicked are rewarded for their actions and the righteous are punished.
When government exceeds God's authority and promotes ungodly results then it ceases to be legitimate authority and must be corrected, or disobeyed, if contrary to Gods laws. When those in authority fail to see they are under the greater heavenly authority the apostle Peter stated, “We must obey God rather than man.” It is the same principle when your employer asks you to do dishonest things, or when parents abuse their children and instead of protecting them and caring for them. Sexual and physical abuse results when empowered people seek to get their way.
Solomon says he sees cruelty done and lording it over others to their own hurt. He's seen wicked buried and then listened to their eulogy. Many wicked are praised at death, but they will be facing the one who has final authority and then it's too late to change.
If all authority is granted by God, that doesn’t mean all things a person in that position is allowed by God. Some day there will be an accounting of how each does his or her work.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Fri April 10, 2009
Eccl 8:12-17 Although a wicked man commits a hundred crimes and still lives a long time, I know that it will go better with God-fearing men, who are reverent before God.
13 Yet because the wicked do not fear God, it will not go well with them, and their days will not lengthen like a shadow.
15 So I commend the enjoyment of life, because nothing is better for a man under the sun than to eat and drink and be glad. Then joy will accompany him in his work all the days of the life God has given him under the sun.
16 When I applied my mind to know wisdom and to observe man's labor on earth-- his eyes not seeing sleep day or night--then I saw all that God has done. No one can comprehend what goes on under the sun. Despite all his efforts to search it out, man cannot discover its meaning. Even if a wise man claims he knows, he cannot really comprehend it.
Divine Authority
Lastly, the writer reminds us there is divine authority. The preacher realizes that God ordained proper human authority, which makes that indirectly divine authority. We observed all those in authority have limited authority. That is why leaders need prayer. We also see many in power will abuse their leadership. But ultimately God will hold into account all who are in authority as well as those under authority. We need to strongly support people that will carry out justice, help those who are in need, have a just tax, and not abuse power. We need responsible leadership. But never to forget that ultimately our submission and authority is to God. But also remember all humans will fall short of the ideal. All of us will make mistakes.
Who of us as parents at times fall short of the authority granted to us by God? We do not always make wise decisions for the benefit of our family or children. This is a reminder that we are not only under Gods’ authority but need to evaluate our position and responsibility with humility and confession.
Yes, it is true there are people who can get away with crime and sin and do things that are not right. But never forget, God has the last word. Solomon knows it will go better also on this earth with God fearing men, for they have the spirit of God within them, even during the difficulties of our days. King Solomon is mindful that when people do not fear God it will not go well with them and “their days will not lengthen like a shadow" You cannot fool God. He is just.
Those who have been declared righteous, regardless what has happened in their lives, will be rewarded by God, our great and holy judge. Wisdom comes from the fear of the Lord.
Look at vs. 15 Solomon says since there are many things we are blind to, and since God is ultimately in charge, live a life of faith and truth and trust in God. When we seek to live for Christ then joy will come and blessings with the provisions we know comes as a gift from above. Our food and our drink are provisions from God. Enjoy them.
Our Lord gives us this world to enjoy. It is best enjoyed when we put Him as the final authority in our lives, in our work, in our church, in our country. All that we receive are gifts from above. Be glad and full of joy in this life. Thank Him for your daily provisions. Thank Him for your family, friends, air, spring, clothes, and cars. Thank Him for He has given Himself to you and is the Divine Authority that operates out of glory for Him and love for you.
Do you have that peace? Because of the authority of heaven, Jesus bought us unto Himself. He is our Lord and King. We have a Lord whose authority is over all of nature, heaven, hell, principalities above and below. All human authority is in his hand. He seeks to work out good if we submit and obey our king Jesus. Our wisdom is so limited (16-17) When we see all God has done, who can understand or comprehend it all?
Isn't it a curious thing that Jesus, who has all authority, humbled himself into the position of a servant? Isn't it a bit odd that the Lord of the universe took on the form of a man and became servant of all? Why is it that Jesus would say, "He would be first shall be last, and the last shall be first." Why when Jesus was teaching his disciples on leadership say in Mark 10:43 You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you, Instead whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whosoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
Because Jesus understood the plan, and the future, He was able to be under authority and carry out our salvation. He who is the best authority is one who has learned to be under authority. The kind of leader we are instructed to be is the leader who is concerned for those for whom he is responsible, their task, their lord, and in humility draw upon the wisdom from the one his is the divine authority. The best leaders are those who model Jesus Christ. The best leader is Jesus Christ.
As we conclude as yourself this question, "Is he Lord over your life?"
Pastor Dale
Friday, April 3, 2009
Ways of Wisdom- Ecclesiastes 7
Sermon Nuggets Mon March 30, 2009
Theme- WORDS OF WISDOM
Verses- Eccl 7:1-4
A good name is better than fine perfume, and the day of death better than the day of birth.
2 It is better to go to a house of mourning than to go to a house of feasting, for death is the destiny of every man; the living should take this to heart.
3 Sorrow is better than laughter, because a sad face is good for the heart.
4 The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning, but the heart of fools is in the house of pleasure.
Be Prepared
Wisdom is the most important theme of King Solomon’s writing in Ecclesiastes. He is so full of proverbs that collections of his wise sayings were compiled into a separate book of Scripture. But a lot of secular advice we receive is hot air. It may be the wisdom from man, but not from God. However, God does allow us to look at every day life in practical ways to help make decisions.
Solomon writes, “Vanity of vanity, all is vanity.” There are good things, there are better things, but most things are just absolutely meaningless when it comes to the important things in this world.
The story is told of one lady during the time of the sinking of the Titanic left her spot on the life boat while many were going to drown. She asked to be given 3 minutes as she ran through the gambling room with all the money that had rolled on the floor ankle deep. She came to her stateroom and pushed aside her diamond rings and expensive bracelets and necklaces and grabbed 3 small oranges.
Thirty minutes earlier she would not have chosen a crate of oranges over the smallest diamond. But death had boarded the Titanic. Her view of valuables were transformed. Instantaneously priceless things had become worthless. Worthless things like oranges now had become priceless. And in that moment she preferred 3 small oranges to a crate of diamonds.
Solomon had seen the misplaced philosophies and the worthless energies people waste on thing that have no value. Now he shares insights of wisdom for this life that we all need to heed.
Be prepared is the slogan of the Boy Scouts. Solomon says, “a good name is better than fine perfume.” That makes sense. When I leave for the day I usually slap on some cologne. My wife puts on perfume. However it doesn't last long. It fades away.
Being prepared isn't what is on the outside, but what is on the inside. We can smell nice, but if we don't have a good reputation, we aren't prepared for what counts. Honesty, righteousness, and positive reputation reveals our inner character. Prepare your inward beauty, more than your outward beauty. For soon comes death.
But what does Solomon mean when he says the day of death is better than the day of birth? Are funerals better than birthdays? Who would agree with that?
Solomon is saying what might be better said in N.T. terms, "Better never to have been born at all, than never to have been born again." If one is not prepared to die, then one's birth is not worth celebrating. If all we seek in this world is worldly gain and pleasure and then die, shouldn't that cause us to focus on spiritual preparation for death?
We live in a culture that frankly ignores death. Church is one of the few institutions that keep calling people to look at mortality.
Hospitals are geared for recovery. Doctors, on the whole, seek to improve your health. Mortuaries dress people painted and dressed to make one look like they are sleeping.
Being prepared means one is ready to die. It is a celebration service when there is confidence that a saint is going home to the Lord. Do you know for sure you are going to heaven and not hell? The Bible teaches you can be prepared. We can trust Christ alone and confess and turn from our sin and ask God's forgiveness.
Solomon says wisdom is not pursuing primarily the fun times and laughter and entertainment, but be ready to meet God. Booze, money, drugs, pleasures, work might keep us from facing the reality of death for awhile, but sooner or later we must all die. Are you prepared for death today? If you are not and die outside of Jesus Christ then it would be better if you were not born. However if you are prepared and ready to leave this world it is a great to know you walk with God.
Pastor Dale
Sermon nuggets Tues March 31, 2009
Verses Eccl 7:5-6 It is better to heed a wise man's rebuke than to listen to the song of fools.
6 Like the crackling of thorns under the pot, so is the laughter of fools. This too is meaningless.
Be Discerning
Theodore Geisel (better known as Dr. Seuss) wrote these words:
“My uncle ordered popovers from the restaurant’s bill of fare.
And when they were served, he regarded them with a penetrating stare.
Then he spoke great Words of Wisdom as he sat there on his chair:
"To eat these things," said my uncle, "you must exercise great care.
You may swallow down what's solid, BUT ..you must spit out the air!"
And as you partake of the world's bill of fare, that's darned good advice to follow.
Do a lot of spitting out the hot air. And be careful what you swallow."
There is lots of advice to be heard. Some of it is wise. Other advice is quite foolish. A discerning person will not accept what is being said without some evaluation of which is full of hot air.
The increase of bad information and misguided advice is only a click of a finger on the internet. Emails are full of forwards that are frankly hoaxes. Unscrupulous con artists learn they can sell their products by making unsubstantiated claims and have a false testimony circulate among emails that they could not do under government regulation for truth in selling. I have giving up counting how many millionaire widows want to transfer all their money into my bank account because their country is persecuting them or going to steal their money.
Why do such con artists use Christians language and plead for help from brothers and sister in the Lord? Because it works. They get 1,000s every day from people gullible enough to want to help and soon the scam spreads. Be discerning. If it is too good to be true is almost always is. Don’t just come to conclusions because there is an ad or email in your box. Most jobs at home are false. Most sure-bet investments are only benefiting the receiver of your money. Scam artists abound.
But on the other side there are people who are wise and need to be listened to. I have gained much from people helping people sharing their stories on the internet. Some people who have gone through various circumstance become excellent teachers. Caring Bridge is a comforting website to support families whose loved ones are in critical condition in a hospital. It is a means of keeping the larger family of friends informed as to what is going on with the patient. Facing health issues allows for information to be shared at no or low cost to people who want to help one another.
If we are open to God's teaching it come in many ways and through many experiences. The greatest way sometime to grow in our faith is through the difficult times. We can learn from praise, but you know as much as I hate to admit this, I learn more from criticism. I learn more by facing things in my life that I don't particularly want to face. What I need to do however is to distinguish the source of criticism whether it be from someone wise or foolish. Criticism from any source hurts. But for one who is open learns from wise words of someone who tells us something for our own good. Ask yourself if there is some truth to what is being said. Instead of being defensive, or insisting on building up your ego, or condemning others who might criticize you another more helpful alternative is to look at yourself as less than perfect.
I think most of you already know that when you hear the criticism consider the source. If comments are from a fool, forget it. If it is from one who is always complaining about something, don't take it too seriously. If it is someone who has a grudge on their shoulder consider that.
Those who truly love you are well meaning in advice they give. Some of the advice still needs to be judged an often checked out by those who have greater knowledge in some area. It is easy to become defensive instead of carefully listening to what is said and evaluate it. Be discerning and figure what is solid and what is air that should be spit out.
Unpleasant words will come. If we choose the paths of wisdom we can find growth in those situations. Reprimands are not pleasant, but sometimes needed. Learn from them. Be open to learn from them. Judge if what is said might be applicable. Pray about it, and then change where you can, and where you can't then turn that area over to God. If it is untrue or said in a spirit that is not helpful then turn that over to God as well. Be discerning through prayer and the reading of the Word of God. That is always the best advice.
Pastor Dale.
Sermon nuggets Weds, April 1
Verses- Eccl 7:7-12
7 Extortion turns a wise man into a fool, and a bribe corrupts the heart.
8 The end of a matter is better than its beginning, and patience is better than pride.
9 Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools.
10 Do not say, "Why were the old days better than these?" For it is not wise to ask such questions.
11 Wisdom, like an inheritance, is a good thing and benefits those who see the sun.
12 Wisdom is a shelter as money is a shelter, but the advantage of knowledge is this: that wisdom preserves the life of its possessor.
Be Self-controlled
Have you ever noticed how much wisdom is tied into self control? Foolishness is too often tied into our words and actions that get us into trouble. Self control is mentioned with the fruit of the Spirit.
Solomon mentioned 5 areas where self control is exhibiting wisdom. First is to control your desire for money. Money and greed tempt us as we talked about last time when thinking about materialism. The preacher warns us against lust for money that can even lead to bribes and extortion. Look at all the perks politicians get from companies that expect favors. Look at the debacle in the Chicago mayor this year and bidding off the Senate seat. Many countries are confused that we make a deal of bribery when that is just the way business and government is run. Resist the temptations of money and unfair dealings, even if it means getting less money. Be warned also when deals seem to be so sweet.
Secondly, we need self-control in patience. Everybody wishes there was a patient pill that could be taken. When you need to model Christ to those around you, do they see someone who is so impatient, impulsive, and wanting their own way? Aren't you glad that God is loving, merciful, gracious, kind, long-suffering, but also holy, righteous, just and patient? Learn to leave results to God even in your waiting and in your praying as you learn patience.
Thirdly, be self controlled when it comes to pride. I heard a story about a frog who wanted to go south with the geese for the winter. The birds kept talking about how lovely it was and how nice it would be for the frog to go there, but they couldn't think of a way to make that happen. He was too heavy for any goose to carry him for any distance. Then the frog came up with a suggestion. "Two of you could hold sticks between your legs, and then I'll hang on with my mouth. You can stop periodically for rests."
Things were going along fine. The frog was looking at all the scenery when other geese flew by.
"My, my isn't that a cleaver idea? I wonder who thought of it." The problem with the frog was pride, for he told them and fell to his death.
Fourthly, be self controlled with your anger. It is not a pleasant home where kids have to walk around on eggs because dad or mom had a bad day. Nor is it good when kids cannot control their temper. As believers in Jesus we need to learn to control anger and passions. If it is a problem in your life, then it is a spiritual problem. I'm not saying there isn't a time and place to be angry, but there is also an acceptable manner to handle anger in effective ways and not destructive ways. If you are a victim of physical or emotional abuse or an abuser when anger overtakes you or a loved one, intervention is necessary. Jesus needs to do some healing in your life. Find help while you can.
Lastly, be self controlled in your attitude. I like the way Solomon puts it. “Don't keep complaining about the present and rising up how things used to be in the good old days. The reciting of history that is used to criticize and show displeasure with the present just as well not be said. "Ah let me tell you how it was when I was a kid.. Let me tell you about the church in the good old days.”
I had never ceased to be amazed working at nursing homes when people would talk with fondness of how great life was 50-70-90 years ago, but are the first to complain when the air conditioner isn't working right or there is a burned out light bulb, or they're the last to get served their food.
Frankly we quickly forget the reality and instead lean on sentimentality with the untrue picture of how it was. God made the present as well as the past. When we complain we are miserable and so are others. Be what God wants you to be today. Make the most of today. If something needs changing, help bring change for the better of all. If you can't help build things up, then don't tear things down. Learn that wisdom leads to satisfaction. Satisfaction is learned through self-control of our temptations, emotions, tongues, attitude and action.
Pastor Dale
Sermon nuggets Thurs April 2, 2009
Verses- Eccl 7:13-19
13 Consider what God has done: Who can straighten what he has made crooked?
14 When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider: God has made the one as well as the other. Therefore, a man cannot discover anything about his future.
15 In this meaningless life of mine I have seen both of these: a righteous man perishing in his righteousness, and a wicked man living long in his wickedness.
16 Do not be over righteous, neither be over wise-- why destroy yourself?
17 Do not be over wicked, and do not be a fool-- why die before your time?
18 It is good to grasp the one and not let go of the other. The man who fears God will avoid all.
19 Wisdom makes one wise man more powerful than ten rulers in a city.
Be Dependable
Do you know what it means to be a dependable person? Such people are believable. They can be trusted. They are solid. They are persons of integrity. They have common sense. They are reliable. They usually are not extremists. They are consistent people not following fads. They are not wishy-washy. They are not full of pretense. They know their faults and can admit them. They know their sins and desires to change. They know they are not holy and they know they do not want to be defeated sinners. They don't live with real highs and lows. This seems to be what Solomon saw is acting with wisdom.
Among the various proverbs of wisdom Solomon continues with ways of wisdom telling us that when times are good be happy; when times are bad, consider that God has made the one a well as the other.
Man cannot be secure in human future events, only in the security and sovereignty of God. We recall lessons God teaches us in both good and the bad situations. We become perfected through the experiences of life and death, joy and sorrow, prosperity and adversity.
He gives a few illustrations of the dependable life. We discussed injustice in the past devotions from Ecclesiastes, but the writer reminds us of the facts. Life is not fair. Sometimes the good suffer and the wicked live long and prosperous lives. That is not justice from our point of view. But fairness will never be completed on this earth, not until we get to heaven. Being dependable is not throwing away your faith because bad things happen. It is the confidence that in time God’s word works out according to His promises. Many are fooled by worldly success and find it empty. The consistent follower find being in the will of God there is success not known to the world. God gives contentment if we focus on Him and not stuff.
The illustration mentioned in Verses 16,17 seems to go contrary to the other plain scriptural passages, particularly in Rev 3:15-16 when Jesus said, “if you are lukewarm I will spew you out of my mouth.” Some follow this advice by thinking it is better not be too good or too bad. You have heard some say, “He is so heavenly minded that he is no earthly good”. But they fail to quote the rest that says, “he is so earthly minded he is no heavenly good."
What is Solomon saying? That the reaction of some people is to act so religious but that is not real righteousness. The Pharisees were overly righteous, meaning they were trusting their good works to save them. They compared their good acts with one another and judged who was better and best. They thought the ones who memorized the most Scripture were the more righteous. They thought those who were cloistered in a religious community were being better than the tradesmen. Those with superior knowledge of the Scriptures would win them favor with God.
As we are reminding studying Romans on Sunday mornings, righteousness comes only through the grace given by God. It is not of ourselves, it is a gift from God. God looks upon the heart. The legalist and the libertine both concentrate on their performances. What does it mean to please the Lord? Getting our heart right with Him lead us to desire to honor Him. As we allow the Spirit of God to work through us, we desire to do that which is well pleasing unto Him.
vs 18 reminds us that the man who fears God will avoid all extremes by his own effort. That means we ought to be dependable people of faith. We're sinners saved by grace and it is by grace that we live in the freedom and joy of the Lord. It is the consistent, and dependable Christian trusting daily in God and loving Him that finds meaning and blessing in life from the long perspective.
Do others say of you, “She is dependable? He is trustworthy? They are consistent in what they say and what they do?” That is wise.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Fri April 3, 2009
Verses- Eccl 7:20-29
There is not a righteous man on earth who does what is right and never sins.
Do not pay attention to every word people say, or you may hear your servant cursing you-- for you know in your heart that many times you yourself have cursed others.
All this I tested by wisdom and I said, "I am determined to be wise"-- but this was beyond me. Whatever wisdom may be, it is far off and most profound-- who can discover it?
So I turned my mind to understand, to investigate and to search out wisdom and the scheme of things and to understand the stupidity of wickedness and the madness of folly.
I find more bitter than death the woman who is a snare, whose heart is a trap and whose hands are chains. The man who pleases God will escape her, but the sinner she will ensnare.
"Look," says the Teacher, "this is what I have discovered: "Adding one thing to another to discover the scheme of things- while I was still searching but not finding-- I found one man among a thousand, but not one woman among them all.
This only have I found: God made mankind upright, but men have gone in search of many schemes."
Be Warned
Today we look at some of the warnings of Solomon. What to avoid also are the ways of wisdom. We are all sinners and there is no one that is righteous. “There is none that does good, no not one.” Until we come to that understanding there is no salvation. But knowing allows us the power to face it, admit it, and confess it. We are wise when we stop comparing ourselves with anyone else than Jesus Christ. When we compare ourselves with others we can justify our behavior and actions. But when compared with Jesus we are unholy and full of selfishness and sin and disobedience, which requires confession.
Many have the worldview that mankind is basically good. The Scriptures teach a different view of mankind. We live in a sin filled world. In the conclusion of this week’s thoughts Solomon warns us against our tongues and our lusts.
People will be tearing others down through gossip and malice and slander. Be warned of the damage that our words can do. Christians particularly need to watch what we say. We get caught up in cursing others by tearing them down and seeking to build ourselves up in our minds and in the minds of our listeners. Be warned to not repeat gossip.
One young man said to his mother, “Mom your already telling more of the story than you heard." Recently I was in a conversation with someone who wanted to find out more details of a situation that I knew and kept coming up with alternatives as to what might have surrounded a circumstance. They wanted me to agree with them. We can make up all types of things, or admit that we don’t know.
As Solomon looked all around and investigated people he wanted to also warn folks against lusts. Look at the extreme damage pornography plays in our lives and on the internet. We warned of sexual urges and also the temptations there are widely available today. Even children’s magazines have pictures of ladies whose breasts were half showing. Many young people see nothing wrong with wearing some of the clothing that is highly sexual in nature in school, and in church. Many do not recognize how it affects young men around them. And many boys and men feed on pornography so readily available that their lusts and desires become obsessions.
If God is the Lord of your body dress as to please the Lord, not lewdly to attract those who are easily sexually tempted. Be warned that sex before marriage is common but goes against God’s laws. It is damaging in many ways to our psyche when we are in sin. People claiming to want to follow Jesus Christ are convincing themselves it is ok to live together with boy friends and girl friends. Solomon paid the consequences and his sexual desires became his spiritual downfall. Be warned of sexual immorality and be warned of lusts.
Many celebrities and people of power or influence find themselves targets of others who are attracted to them and tempt them in many ways. That is why our guard needs to be up since there will be opportunities for people wanted to lure us into sexual sins of all kind. Being a king he could have any woman he wanted and found many women wanting to lure him into his unleashed passions. That was his downfall.
Determine in your heart that you will not let the world mold you into its thinking even as Solomon was molded by his lusts and hence left the Lord. Most of Solomon's wives were foreign wives and not devoted to God lest we forget the context, he is out to prove that all people are sinners and that is true men and women alike.
This weekend try to be alert how often the temptation presents itself to talk negatively about others, and how sexual temptations try to capture your attention and thoughts.
There are many wise proverbs of Solomon. He learned wisdom the hard way, through mistakes of sin. It hurt. He wanted to warn others to stay away from sin. We can learn through the inspired word of Scripture. God has a path of righteousness and protection for us. But like Adam and Eve in the Garden that which attracts us is our downfall when we take our eyes off of Christ. Take what is real and chew on it, and spit out the air. Be wise in the Lord and in his word and in your life and in your witness. Learn the ways of wisdom through those who needed to learn the hard way.
Pastor Dale
Theme- WORDS OF WISDOM
Verses- Eccl 7:1-4
A good name is better than fine perfume, and the day of death better than the day of birth.
2 It is better to go to a house of mourning than to go to a house of feasting, for death is the destiny of every man; the living should take this to heart.
3 Sorrow is better than laughter, because a sad face is good for the heart.
4 The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning, but the heart of fools is in the house of pleasure.
Be Prepared
Wisdom is the most important theme of King Solomon’s writing in Ecclesiastes. He is so full of proverbs that collections of his wise sayings were compiled into a separate book of Scripture. But a lot of secular advice we receive is hot air. It may be the wisdom from man, but not from God. However, God does allow us to look at every day life in practical ways to help make decisions.
Solomon writes, “Vanity of vanity, all is vanity.” There are good things, there are better things, but most things are just absolutely meaningless when it comes to the important things in this world.
The story is told of one lady during the time of the sinking of the Titanic left her spot on the life boat while many were going to drown. She asked to be given 3 minutes as she ran through the gambling room with all the money that had rolled on the floor ankle deep. She came to her stateroom and pushed aside her diamond rings and expensive bracelets and necklaces and grabbed 3 small oranges.
Thirty minutes earlier she would not have chosen a crate of oranges over the smallest diamond. But death had boarded the Titanic. Her view of valuables were transformed. Instantaneously priceless things had become worthless. Worthless things like oranges now had become priceless. And in that moment she preferred 3 small oranges to a crate of diamonds.
Solomon had seen the misplaced philosophies and the worthless energies people waste on thing that have no value. Now he shares insights of wisdom for this life that we all need to heed.
Be prepared is the slogan of the Boy Scouts. Solomon says, “a good name is better than fine perfume.” That makes sense. When I leave for the day I usually slap on some cologne. My wife puts on perfume. However it doesn't last long. It fades away.
Being prepared isn't what is on the outside, but what is on the inside. We can smell nice, but if we don't have a good reputation, we aren't prepared for what counts. Honesty, righteousness, and positive reputation reveals our inner character. Prepare your inward beauty, more than your outward beauty. For soon comes death.
But what does Solomon mean when he says the day of death is better than the day of birth? Are funerals better than birthdays? Who would agree with that?
Solomon is saying what might be better said in N.T. terms, "Better never to have been born at all, than never to have been born again." If one is not prepared to die, then one's birth is not worth celebrating. If all we seek in this world is worldly gain and pleasure and then die, shouldn't that cause us to focus on spiritual preparation for death?
We live in a culture that frankly ignores death. Church is one of the few institutions that keep calling people to look at mortality.
Hospitals are geared for recovery. Doctors, on the whole, seek to improve your health. Mortuaries dress people painted and dressed to make one look like they are sleeping.
Being prepared means one is ready to die. It is a celebration service when there is confidence that a saint is going home to the Lord. Do you know for sure you are going to heaven and not hell? The Bible teaches you can be prepared. We can trust Christ alone and confess and turn from our sin and ask God's forgiveness.
Solomon says wisdom is not pursuing primarily the fun times and laughter and entertainment, but be ready to meet God. Booze, money, drugs, pleasures, work might keep us from facing the reality of death for awhile, but sooner or later we must all die. Are you prepared for death today? If you are not and die outside of Jesus Christ then it would be better if you were not born. However if you are prepared and ready to leave this world it is a great to know you walk with God.
Pastor Dale
Sermon nuggets Tues March 31, 2009
Verses Eccl 7:5-6 It is better to heed a wise man's rebuke than to listen to the song of fools.
6 Like the crackling of thorns under the pot, so is the laughter of fools. This too is meaningless.
Be Discerning
Theodore Geisel (better known as Dr. Seuss) wrote these words:
“My uncle ordered popovers from the restaurant’s bill of fare.
And when they were served, he regarded them with a penetrating stare.
Then he spoke great Words of Wisdom as he sat there on his chair:
"To eat these things," said my uncle, "you must exercise great care.
You may swallow down what's solid, BUT ..you must spit out the air!"
And as you partake of the world's bill of fare, that's darned good advice to follow.
Do a lot of spitting out the hot air. And be careful what you swallow."
There is lots of advice to be heard. Some of it is wise. Other advice is quite foolish. A discerning person will not accept what is being said without some evaluation of which is full of hot air.
The increase of bad information and misguided advice is only a click of a finger on the internet. Emails are full of forwards that are frankly hoaxes. Unscrupulous con artists learn they can sell their products by making unsubstantiated claims and have a false testimony circulate among emails that they could not do under government regulation for truth in selling. I have giving up counting how many millionaire widows want to transfer all their money into my bank account because their country is persecuting them or going to steal their money.
Why do such con artists use Christians language and plead for help from brothers and sister in the Lord? Because it works. They get 1,000s every day from people gullible enough to want to help and soon the scam spreads. Be discerning. If it is too good to be true is almost always is. Don’t just come to conclusions because there is an ad or email in your box. Most jobs at home are false. Most sure-bet investments are only benefiting the receiver of your money. Scam artists abound.
But on the other side there are people who are wise and need to be listened to. I have gained much from people helping people sharing their stories on the internet. Some people who have gone through various circumstance become excellent teachers. Caring Bridge is a comforting website to support families whose loved ones are in critical condition in a hospital. It is a means of keeping the larger family of friends informed as to what is going on with the patient. Facing health issues allows for information to be shared at no or low cost to people who want to help one another.
If we are open to God's teaching it come in many ways and through many experiences. The greatest way sometime to grow in our faith is through the difficult times. We can learn from praise, but you know as much as I hate to admit this, I learn more from criticism. I learn more by facing things in my life that I don't particularly want to face. What I need to do however is to distinguish the source of criticism whether it be from someone wise or foolish. Criticism from any source hurts. But for one who is open learns from wise words of someone who tells us something for our own good. Ask yourself if there is some truth to what is being said. Instead of being defensive, or insisting on building up your ego, or condemning others who might criticize you another more helpful alternative is to look at yourself as less than perfect.
I think most of you already know that when you hear the criticism consider the source. If comments are from a fool, forget it. If it is from one who is always complaining about something, don't take it too seriously. If it is someone who has a grudge on their shoulder consider that.
Those who truly love you are well meaning in advice they give. Some of the advice still needs to be judged an often checked out by those who have greater knowledge in some area. It is easy to become defensive instead of carefully listening to what is said and evaluate it. Be discerning and figure what is solid and what is air that should be spit out.
Unpleasant words will come. If we choose the paths of wisdom we can find growth in those situations. Reprimands are not pleasant, but sometimes needed. Learn from them. Be open to learn from them. Judge if what is said might be applicable. Pray about it, and then change where you can, and where you can't then turn that area over to God. If it is untrue or said in a spirit that is not helpful then turn that over to God as well. Be discerning through prayer and the reading of the Word of God. That is always the best advice.
Pastor Dale.
Sermon nuggets Weds, April 1
Verses- Eccl 7:7-12
7 Extortion turns a wise man into a fool, and a bribe corrupts the heart.
8 The end of a matter is better than its beginning, and patience is better than pride.
9 Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools.
10 Do not say, "Why were the old days better than these?" For it is not wise to ask such questions.
11 Wisdom, like an inheritance, is a good thing and benefits those who see the sun.
12 Wisdom is a shelter as money is a shelter, but the advantage of knowledge is this: that wisdom preserves the life of its possessor.
Be Self-controlled
Have you ever noticed how much wisdom is tied into self control? Foolishness is too often tied into our words and actions that get us into trouble. Self control is mentioned with the fruit of the Spirit.
Solomon mentioned 5 areas where self control is exhibiting wisdom. First is to control your desire for money. Money and greed tempt us as we talked about last time when thinking about materialism. The preacher warns us against lust for money that can even lead to bribes and extortion. Look at all the perks politicians get from companies that expect favors. Look at the debacle in the Chicago mayor this year and bidding off the Senate seat. Many countries are confused that we make a deal of bribery when that is just the way business and government is run. Resist the temptations of money and unfair dealings, even if it means getting less money. Be warned also when deals seem to be so sweet.
Secondly, we need self-control in patience. Everybody wishes there was a patient pill that could be taken. When you need to model Christ to those around you, do they see someone who is so impatient, impulsive, and wanting their own way? Aren't you glad that God is loving, merciful, gracious, kind, long-suffering, but also holy, righteous, just and patient? Learn to leave results to God even in your waiting and in your praying as you learn patience.
Thirdly, be self controlled when it comes to pride. I heard a story about a frog who wanted to go south with the geese for the winter. The birds kept talking about how lovely it was and how nice it would be for the frog to go there, but they couldn't think of a way to make that happen. He was too heavy for any goose to carry him for any distance. Then the frog came up with a suggestion. "Two of you could hold sticks between your legs, and then I'll hang on with my mouth. You can stop periodically for rests."
Things were going along fine. The frog was looking at all the scenery when other geese flew by.
"My, my isn't that a cleaver idea? I wonder who thought of it." The problem with the frog was pride, for he told them and fell to his death.
Fourthly, be self controlled with your anger. It is not a pleasant home where kids have to walk around on eggs because dad or mom had a bad day. Nor is it good when kids cannot control their temper. As believers in Jesus we need to learn to control anger and passions. If it is a problem in your life, then it is a spiritual problem. I'm not saying there isn't a time and place to be angry, but there is also an acceptable manner to handle anger in effective ways and not destructive ways. If you are a victim of physical or emotional abuse or an abuser when anger overtakes you or a loved one, intervention is necessary. Jesus needs to do some healing in your life. Find help while you can.
Lastly, be self controlled in your attitude. I like the way Solomon puts it. “Don't keep complaining about the present and rising up how things used to be in the good old days. The reciting of history that is used to criticize and show displeasure with the present just as well not be said. "Ah let me tell you how it was when I was a kid.. Let me tell you about the church in the good old days.”
I had never ceased to be amazed working at nursing homes when people would talk with fondness of how great life was 50-70-90 years ago, but are the first to complain when the air conditioner isn't working right or there is a burned out light bulb, or they're the last to get served their food.
Frankly we quickly forget the reality and instead lean on sentimentality with the untrue picture of how it was. God made the present as well as the past. When we complain we are miserable and so are others. Be what God wants you to be today. Make the most of today. If something needs changing, help bring change for the better of all. If you can't help build things up, then don't tear things down. Learn that wisdom leads to satisfaction. Satisfaction is learned through self-control of our temptations, emotions, tongues, attitude and action.
Pastor Dale
Sermon nuggets Thurs April 2, 2009
Verses- Eccl 7:13-19
13 Consider what God has done: Who can straighten what he has made crooked?
14 When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider: God has made the one as well as the other. Therefore, a man cannot discover anything about his future.
15 In this meaningless life of mine I have seen both of these: a righteous man perishing in his righteousness, and a wicked man living long in his wickedness.
16 Do not be over righteous, neither be over wise-- why destroy yourself?
17 Do not be over wicked, and do not be a fool-- why die before your time?
18 It is good to grasp the one and not let go of the other. The man who fears God will avoid all.
19 Wisdom makes one wise man more powerful than ten rulers in a city.
Be Dependable
Do you know what it means to be a dependable person? Such people are believable. They can be trusted. They are solid. They are persons of integrity. They have common sense. They are reliable. They usually are not extremists. They are consistent people not following fads. They are not wishy-washy. They are not full of pretense. They know their faults and can admit them. They know their sins and desires to change. They know they are not holy and they know they do not want to be defeated sinners. They don't live with real highs and lows. This seems to be what Solomon saw is acting with wisdom.
Among the various proverbs of wisdom Solomon continues with ways of wisdom telling us that when times are good be happy; when times are bad, consider that God has made the one a well as the other.
Man cannot be secure in human future events, only in the security and sovereignty of God. We recall lessons God teaches us in both good and the bad situations. We become perfected through the experiences of life and death, joy and sorrow, prosperity and adversity.
He gives a few illustrations of the dependable life. We discussed injustice in the past devotions from Ecclesiastes, but the writer reminds us of the facts. Life is not fair. Sometimes the good suffer and the wicked live long and prosperous lives. That is not justice from our point of view. But fairness will never be completed on this earth, not until we get to heaven. Being dependable is not throwing away your faith because bad things happen. It is the confidence that in time God’s word works out according to His promises. Many are fooled by worldly success and find it empty. The consistent follower find being in the will of God there is success not known to the world. God gives contentment if we focus on Him and not stuff.
The illustration mentioned in Verses 16,17 seems to go contrary to the other plain scriptural passages, particularly in Rev 3:15-16 when Jesus said, “if you are lukewarm I will spew you out of my mouth.” Some follow this advice by thinking it is better not be too good or too bad. You have heard some say, “He is so heavenly minded that he is no earthly good”. But they fail to quote the rest that says, “he is so earthly minded he is no heavenly good."
What is Solomon saying? That the reaction of some people is to act so religious but that is not real righteousness. The Pharisees were overly righteous, meaning they were trusting their good works to save them. They compared their good acts with one another and judged who was better and best. They thought the ones who memorized the most Scripture were the more righteous. They thought those who were cloistered in a religious community were being better than the tradesmen. Those with superior knowledge of the Scriptures would win them favor with God.
As we are reminding studying Romans on Sunday mornings, righteousness comes only through the grace given by God. It is not of ourselves, it is a gift from God. God looks upon the heart. The legalist and the libertine both concentrate on their performances. What does it mean to please the Lord? Getting our heart right with Him lead us to desire to honor Him. As we allow the Spirit of God to work through us, we desire to do that which is well pleasing unto Him.
vs 18 reminds us that the man who fears God will avoid all extremes by his own effort. That means we ought to be dependable people of faith. We're sinners saved by grace and it is by grace that we live in the freedom and joy of the Lord. It is the consistent, and dependable Christian trusting daily in God and loving Him that finds meaning and blessing in life from the long perspective.
Do others say of you, “She is dependable? He is trustworthy? They are consistent in what they say and what they do?” That is wise.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Fri April 3, 2009
Verses- Eccl 7:20-29
There is not a righteous man on earth who does what is right and never sins.
Do not pay attention to every word people say, or you may hear your servant cursing you-- for you know in your heart that many times you yourself have cursed others.
All this I tested by wisdom and I said, "I am determined to be wise"-- but this was beyond me. Whatever wisdom may be, it is far off and most profound-- who can discover it?
So I turned my mind to understand, to investigate and to search out wisdom and the scheme of things and to understand the stupidity of wickedness and the madness of folly.
I find more bitter than death the woman who is a snare, whose heart is a trap and whose hands are chains. The man who pleases God will escape her, but the sinner she will ensnare.
"Look," says the Teacher, "this is what I have discovered: "Adding one thing to another to discover the scheme of things- while I was still searching but not finding-- I found one man among a thousand, but not one woman among them all.
This only have I found: God made mankind upright, but men have gone in search of many schemes."
Be Warned
Today we look at some of the warnings of Solomon. What to avoid also are the ways of wisdom. We are all sinners and there is no one that is righteous. “There is none that does good, no not one.” Until we come to that understanding there is no salvation. But knowing allows us the power to face it, admit it, and confess it. We are wise when we stop comparing ourselves with anyone else than Jesus Christ. When we compare ourselves with others we can justify our behavior and actions. But when compared with Jesus we are unholy and full of selfishness and sin and disobedience, which requires confession.
Many have the worldview that mankind is basically good. The Scriptures teach a different view of mankind. We live in a sin filled world. In the conclusion of this week’s thoughts Solomon warns us against our tongues and our lusts.
People will be tearing others down through gossip and malice and slander. Be warned of the damage that our words can do. Christians particularly need to watch what we say. We get caught up in cursing others by tearing them down and seeking to build ourselves up in our minds and in the minds of our listeners. Be warned to not repeat gossip.
One young man said to his mother, “Mom your already telling more of the story than you heard." Recently I was in a conversation with someone who wanted to find out more details of a situation that I knew and kept coming up with alternatives as to what might have surrounded a circumstance. They wanted me to agree with them. We can make up all types of things, or admit that we don’t know.
As Solomon looked all around and investigated people he wanted to also warn folks against lusts. Look at the extreme damage pornography plays in our lives and on the internet. We warned of sexual urges and also the temptations there are widely available today. Even children’s magazines have pictures of ladies whose breasts were half showing. Many young people see nothing wrong with wearing some of the clothing that is highly sexual in nature in school, and in church. Many do not recognize how it affects young men around them. And many boys and men feed on pornography so readily available that their lusts and desires become obsessions.
If God is the Lord of your body dress as to please the Lord, not lewdly to attract those who are easily sexually tempted. Be warned that sex before marriage is common but goes against God’s laws. It is damaging in many ways to our psyche when we are in sin. People claiming to want to follow Jesus Christ are convincing themselves it is ok to live together with boy friends and girl friends. Solomon paid the consequences and his sexual desires became his spiritual downfall. Be warned of sexual immorality and be warned of lusts.
Many celebrities and people of power or influence find themselves targets of others who are attracted to them and tempt them in many ways. That is why our guard needs to be up since there will be opportunities for people wanted to lure us into sexual sins of all kind. Being a king he could have any woman he wanted and found many women wanting to lure him into his unleashed passions. That was his downfall.
Determine in your heart that you will not let the world mold you into its thinking even as Solomon was molded by his lusts and hence left the Lord. Most of Solomon's wives were foreign wives and not devoted to God lest we forget the context, he is out to prove that all people are sinners and that is true men and women alike.
This weekend try to be alert how often the temptation presents itself to talk negatively about others, and how sexual temptations try to capture your attention and thoughts.
There are many wise proverbs of Solomon. He learned wisdom the hard way, through mistakes of sin. It hurt. He wanted to warn others to stay away from sin. We can learn through the inspired word of Scripture. God has a path of righteousness and protection for us. But like Adam and Eve in the Garden that which attracts us is our downfall when we take our eyes off of Christ. Take what is real and chew on it, and spit out the air. Be wise in the Lord and in his word and in your life and in your witness. Learn the ways of wisdom through those who needed to learn the hard way.
Pastor Dale
Friday, March 27, 2009
Seeking Satisfaction Eccesiastes 6:1-12
Sermon Nuggets Mon March 23
Theme- Seeking Satisfaction
Verses: Eccl 6:1, 2 I have seen another evil under the sun, and it weighs heavily on men:
God gives a man wealth, possessions and honor, so that he lacks nothing his heart desires, but God does not enable him to enjoy them, and a stranger enjoys them instead. This is meaningless, a grievous evil.
Seeking Satisfaction in Things
As we have been going through Ecclesiastes I am reminded how often Solomon addresses the emptiness of materialism. Perhaps it is for a reason, since it has such a grip on our society. We do re-evaluations of things in our lives at economic downturns like what are experiencing, or end life issues when we reflect on what is really important.
When we used to take our kids to McDonalds they always wanted the same thing. There were not so interested in the food as the prize. The prize in those colorful boxes was worth maybe 20 cents but for the moment getting it was all that mattered. McDonalds called this a Happy meal. You were not just buying hamburgers fries, and a dinosaur stamp. You were buying happiness.
When they tore into the bag and ripped open their prize the happiness didn’t last very long. It was over in a matter of seconds. I thought of suing the company for false advertising. Happiness was an illusion. Not one child says, “Remember that Happy meal? What great joy I found there.”
I did the same thing when little prizes were put in cereal boxes. I told Mom how much I loved the cereal only to leave it on the shelf after the prize was obtained.
When you get older you don't get any smarter; your Happy Meals just get more expensive. All day long the advertising industry wants to highlight discontentment and lure us into buying their product that will change our lives and bring satisfaction. TV actors smile with renewed energy after they used the product. We seldom smile.
Last week as we studied about wealth the wise King concluded it does not bring satisfaction. All that people strive to accumulate in this world will eventually be taken away. We concluded chapter 5 by reminding ourselves happiness is a gift from God. All your money as well as your ability to enjoy it is a gift from God. But in chapter 6 he reflects on five other ways people continue the treadmill of seeking satisfaction.
Solomon was in the unique possession having anything he wanted. There was nothing that his heart desired that he couldn’t get. The lure of the lottery is that one can finally be rich enough to get whatever they wanted, cars, vacations, new homes, education, sex, clothes- then they will be satisfied.
Too often self esteem is wrapped up in things. But the more things people consume the more they are dissatisfied. Until our piles grow beyond our house and we build larger storage buildings to keep it all in.
The evil, Solomon says, is when you get all the things that you thought would make you happy and they don't. Even though he was wise enough to know the Lord allowed him to have these things, satisfaction was not found in those things. God did not give him that.
"Millionaires seldom smile" said Andrew Carnegie. John D. Rockefeller said, "Great wealth is a burden destroying the real zest of life and burnishing peace from the heart." Solomon said it thousands of years before. Satisfaction is not in things.
Pastor Dale
Sermon nuggets Tues March 24, 2009
Verses- Eccl 6:3-6 A man may have a hundred children and live many years; yet no matter how long he lives, if he cannot enjoy his prosperity and does not receive proper burial, I say that a stillborn child is better off than he.
It comes without meaning, it departs in darkness, and in darkness its name is shrouded.
Though it never saw the sun or knew anything, it has more rest than does that man--even if he lives a thousand years twice over but fails to enjoy his prosperity. Do not all go to the same place?
Seeking Satisfaction in Family and Retirement v.3-6
I wasn’t sure if I should highlight Retirement or Family. Prosperity seems to mean enjoying life as an older person.
When I wrote this sermon I was a younger man and enjoying my family at home. Now that I have turned a corner I think ahead of how to “finish well”. When the children leave it is an adjustment again to daily activities. Solomon had well over 100 kids. I wonder if he could keep all their names straight. But he reflects over what is must be like living 2,000 years on earth, that thought does not appeal to him. He is discovering these latter days are not that much fun. Death ends it all and at the time of burial what difference does it make how nice the casket looks or the beauty of a floral display except in the memories of the loved ones? Funerals are for the living, not for the dead. Rich and poor, family filled or by one’s self death ends all relationships and all we have is left behind. In his despairing thoughts someone never born or dying as an infant means he does not experience the pain of this fallen world.
Solomon certainly sees life from the dark side when his heart is troubled. He tells us that satisfaction is not always found in families. Family certainly is more satisfying than things. A man rich with family is blessed if there is love. But did you ever really stop to think that is a gift from God? It is not something we produce ourselves.
I feel frustrated when after all I try to do to warn Christian young people not to marry non Christians, and they still look at immediate emotional desires instead of God’s word which brings wisdom for the long view. An innocent relationship soon turns into something deeper and more involved. Faith in Jesus is the spiritual glue for bonding of hearts.
Another misconception is thinking a wife or a husband will make us fulfilled. “And they got married and lived happily ever after.” That is great for fairy tales, but all good marriages take a lot of work, patience, forgiveness, and learning to give, give and give some more. No spouse can meet all your needs. It is a wonderful thing to have a mate who helps you face the realities of work, kids, stress, tension and financial challenges. Love is an emotional support but must be based on long range commitment even when days are not so happy. Trust is earned when one proves trustworthy during the hard times as well as the fun ones.
But Solomon tried to make his family his way, not God's way and he was very unhappy. In his day the foreign nations around him showed their wealth by having lots of things, but they also showed off, by having lots of wives. So Solomon thought, “I'll show them, whose greater”, and took 1,000 wives as an object lesson to them of his extreme wealth and you can image how many children he had. He did not follow God's direction for marriage. He did not marry only one believer. He married for physical attraction; he married for sexual stimulation; he married for political alliances. He married to show his power and his greatness and found family life did not bring to him satisfaction.
I know there are many men who leave work and absolutely dread going home. There are many women who dread when their husbands come home. There are children whose worse times are when they have to be with their families.
Now let me say this. My family means more to me than anything in this world, next to Jesus Christ. There is nothing that can cause more joy but also more hurt and disappointment as one's family.
Many a young wife thinks having a baby will help regain the love of a husband, but find after a baby comes more stress is added to an unhappy relationship. As parents get older there are obligations and responsibilities that adult children take over. In-laws will also be affected with these life changes that can be draining in family relationships and resources. Love takes commitment in all stages of life.
As a couple looks forward to retirement there are unexpected events that are thrown their way. Retirement accounts are no longer there to enjoy the “good life”. Financial difficulties of adult children sometimes demand help which can drain a bank account. Many a grandparent finds the need to raise the grandchildren after they thought their child rearing days were over. There is no better robber of joy than ill health and unexpected disease. And there stark reality comes that no matter how much family means to us we must leave each and every one of them. Death comes to us all. Kids grow up and marry. Some get divorced, Some have broken relationships some move out of the area. But eventually all my family will leave me by death or I them. I cannot keep them here forever.
When we lay to rest our loved ones the greatest pain is the grief of sorrow of separation. Love is worth it. But the pain of death and adjustments will affect us all our days and the longing for heaven becomes stronger. The desires of this earth lose more of their meaning. Happiness here becomes a short lived illusion. That is why faith in an eternal God and knowing life is ours beyond the grave, give hope.
The only thing you can take to heaven with you is your children, if they know the Lord. There is a forever family that is also greater than our blood relatives. We find the rest of the story in the person of Jesus Christ. When one comes to faith in Jesus Christ life takes on a different purpose. One is part of a new family. There is a love that is beyond even family love. But outside of Jesus Christ we can say, It is better never to have been born at all than never to have been born again! Christ brings meaning to our relationships now and forever. Joy comes when He is at our center of families and prosperity.
Pastor Dale
Sermon nuggets Weds March 25, 2009
Verse- Eccl 6: All man's efforts are for his mouth, yet his appetite is never satisfied.
Seeking Satisfaction in Food
Now we come to some proverbs. We work to eat and eat to stay alive to work and the cycle continues. No matter how good or how much a meal we have, in just a short time we want to eat again. Hunger is only satisfied for a few hours at the most. We constantly need food. Satisfaction is short lived.
More times than I wish to admit I was so full I didn't want another bite. I had to take food home from restaurants. I skipped dinner because lunch was so much. But by 10 pm I was hunting around the refrigerator looking for morsels. I skipped and skimmed on some days when I knew that a pot luck is coming up or we were going out to eat, or having someone over for dessert.
I was watching the Biggest Loser program a week ago when some contestants were allowed 24 hours of luxury. They could go off their diets. But temptation was too strong. They not only ate some food they longed for they also binged in drinking and eating resulting in feelings of remorse afterwards when some gained wait and others didn’t lose anything in spite of all the work outs they did other days. The sin of gluttony is a temptation that gives in to the lusts of my stomach.
But God lets people like me discover in various degrees the consequences of thinking food will satisfy. Many who are grossly overweight eat to cover up troubles, or tension or worry or anxiety. If I have a particularly stressful day I want to eat more and reward myself with goodies that are only to be used sparingly. "I deserve it" I say to myself. I owe it to myself, I lie. Then instead of doing things according to the wisdom of my mind, one yields to gluttony.
Look at Prov 16:26 "The laborer's appetite works for him; his hunger drives him on." If one is hungry he learns to work. It is a great motivation against laziness.
Now in Hebrew poetry hunger and appetite probably means the hunger of the soul which is not satisfied, which may mean that work doesn't bring satisfaction to an empty life. Hard work doesn't bring relief from depression if there are conflicts that feed the soul with discouragement.
Food does not satisfy. It is pleasurable for a time but unless there are life changes, we pay the consequences for unhealthy eating habits.
Someone asked me an interesting question. “Pastor, is it wrong to ask God to bless the meal when you know it is unhealthy junk food?” What do you think?
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Thurs March 26
Verses- Eccl 6:8,9 What advantage has a wise man over a fool? What does a poor man gain by knowing how to conduct himself before others?
9 Better what the eye sees than the roving of the appetite. This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind.
Seeking Satisfaction in Ambition v. 8 & 9
I certainly am glad I don’t have to live those teen years over again. The insecurities of self doubt, seeking acceptance by others, and wanting to be liked is seeking too often to live up to others expectations. Ambition can be good, but how often what I want is influence on what others have. How to get what I want isn’t always the best for me.
It is naïve to think those days are over when we are older. We constantly compare ourselves with others looking for acceptance, and especially self acceptance. Our ambitions motivate us to do better. Our frustrations and depression come too often by situations over which we have no control or say. Fame and popularity don’t last. Embarrassments come when we don’t think we are accepted by what we say or do or wear or how far we come to meet the expectations of others and especially our own expectations.
The Lord knew what he was doing when he gave us that 10th commandment, “Thou shall not covet.” We compare ourselves and judge ourselves by what they have, their status, their positions, and their abilities. If we are poor we dream what it would be like to be rich. We might see someone who is smart and want to be like them. We listen to someone musical and dream about those talents. If we have a small house we envy those with bigger ones. Many times our dreams make us dissatisfied with the reality.
Soren Siebold wrote this parable: The Terribly, Tragically Sad Man. I am condensing it.
"Once there was a boy who lived in a big house on a hill. One day the boy said to God, "I've been thinking and I know what I want when I become a man." "What?" asked God.
"I want to live in a big house with a porch across the front and two St. Bernards and a garden out back. I want to marry a woman who is tall and very beautiful and kind, who has long, black hair and blue eyes and who plays the guitar and sings in a clear, high voice. I want three strong sons to play football with . When they grow up, one will be a great scientist, one will be a Senator and the youngest will be a quarterback for the 49ers. I want to be an adventurer who sails vast ocean and climbs tall mountains and rescues people.
"That sounds like a nice dream" said God. "I want you to be happy."
One day playing football the boy hurt his knees; he couldn't climb tall mountains or even tall tress, must less sail vast oceans. So he studied marketing and started a medical supplies business.
He married a girl who was very beautiful and very kind who had long black hair, but she was short, not tall and had brown eyes, not blue. She couldn't play the guitar or sing. But she prepared wonderful meals and painted magnificent pictures of birds.
Because of his business, he lived in a city near the top of a tall apartment building. He didn't have room for two Saint Bernards, but he had a fluffy cat. He had three daughters, all very beautiful. The youngest, who was in a wheelchair, was the loveliest. They loved their father very much. They didn't play football with him, but sometimes they went to the park and tossed a Frisbee-except for the youngest who sat under a tree strumming her guitar and singing lovely songs.
Then one morning the man awoke and remembered his dream. "I am very sad." He said to his best friend. "Why?" asked his friend.
"Because I once dreamed of marrying a tall woman with black hair, and blue eyes who would play the guitar, and could sing. My wife can't play the guitar and sing. She has brown eyes and she's not tall. "
"Oh But your wife is beautiful and very kind," said his friend. "She creates splendid pictures and delectable food." But the man wasn't listening.
"I am very sad.” The man confessed to his wife one day. Why?
“Because I once dreamed of living in a big house with a porch and having two St Bernards and a garden out back. Instead I live in an apartment building"
"Our apartment is comfortable. We have love, laughter, paintings of birds and a fluffy cat-not to mention three beautiful girls.” But the man wasn't listening.
"I am very sad," the man said to the therapist. "Why? "
“Because I once dreamed that I would grow up to be a great adventurer. Instead I'm a bald business man with a bad knee."
"The medical supplies you sell have saved many lives”. Said the therapist, but the man wasn't listening. So his therapist charged him
$110 and sent him home.
"I am very sad" the man said to his minister. "Why?"
Because I once dreamed of having three sons, a great scientist, a politician and a quarterback; instead I have 3 daughters and the youngest can't even walk."
“But your daughters are beautiful and intelligent.” Said the minster, “They love you very much and they've all done well. One is a nurse, the other an artist, and the youngest teaches music to children." But the man wasn't listening.
He was so sad that he became very sick. He lay in a hospital room. Tubes and wires connect his body to blinking machines that he once sold to the hospital. He was terribly, tragically sad.
Then one night when everyone except the nurse had gone home. The man said to God. "Remember when I was a boy and I told you all things I wanted? "
"It was lovely dream." said God.
"Why didn't you give me those things?" asked the man.
"I could have" said God, "But I wanted to surprise you with things you didn't dream of. I suppose you've notice what I've given you; a kind beautiful wife, a good business a nice place to live, three lovely daughters, one of best packages I've put together."
"Yes interrupted the man, "But I thought you were going to give me what I really wanted."
"And I thought you were going to give me what I really wanted.” Said God."
"What did you want?" asked the man. It had never occurred to him that God was in want of anything.
"I wanted to make you happy with what I'd give you." said God.
The man thought. Then he decided to dream that he wanted most were the very things he already had.
And the man got well and lived happily on the 47th floor, enjoying his children's beautiful voices, his wife's deep brown eyes and her glorious paintings of birds."
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Fri March 27
Verses- Eccl 6:10-12 10 Whatever exists has already been named, and what man is has been known; no man can contend with one who is stronger than he.
11 The more the words, the less the meaning, and how does that profit anyone?
12 For who knows what is good for a man in life, during the few and meaningless days he passes through like a shadow? Who can tell him what will happen under the sun after he is gone?
(NIV)
Seeking Satisfaction in Philosophy v. 10-12
There is value in all pursuits when one seeks meaning and satisfaction in who he is and what he does. It allows life to be examined and as the philosopher Socrates said to Plato, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” The search for meaning, some will say, is more important than the conclusion. Just to discover more of truth and expose falsehoods is of value, the philosophers will argue.
I minored in Philosophy at the University. I enjoyed listening to various arguments but I was more interested in the conclusions rather than the process of arguments. Yes, I learned the faulty reasoning when I studied logic. But I confess, I was frustrated reading volumes of writers and thinkers who were going down the wrong path. Of course, the bases of such education was there was no absolute truth. Find what people say makes sense and follow truth for you. It is all relative.
The value of it, I confess, was minimal. It did help me sort out thought process, and helped me to see how other people arrive at some conclusions in their dialogues and exploration of meaning. But since I experienced Jesus Christ and discovered truth didn't come from my conclusions but rather His revealtion, I decided to devote my life to answers, not just the questions which leave people floundering.
Solomon is wise. He brings people down the path of both experiencing life and thinking about it. As he presents the various answers to satisfaction, he reveals the inward emptiness when faced with death and no hope. If that is all there is, what is the meaning of all this endless search? Man left to himself is finite. He does not know the future, he cannot second guess God. He cannot make his life better doing things his own way.
I see a vast number of people running after meaning in man-made philosophies, spirituality, and political pursuits.
The nation is at a deadlock when various political powers are at odds to solve the world problems and financial principles that will bring us out of the economic crises. The reason they differ is their philosophy of financial recovery.
But Solomon argues that meaning for anything within ourselves is insufficient. We were made to have a relationship with God not a religion. Going through man made rituals to appease God don't work and even religion leaves us dissatisfied.
vs. 10 whatever exists has already been named. This observation tells us God is sovereign. One poet said it, "Not til the loom is silent and the shuttles cease to fly. Will God unroll his canvas and explain the reason why.. The dark threads are as needful in the weaver's skillful hands. As the thread of gold and scarlet in the pattern He has planned."
What is man? He is the clay. God is the potter. God is infinite; we are finite. God is all powerful; mankind is limited in strength and ability. God is faithful; we are unfaithful and inconsistent. The point is clear. (Ish 45:9-12) Clay pots don’t argue with their maker.
What about the future? Are you fearful? Who knows what the future
holds? The satisfied person is not the one who gets everything he or she wants. It is the person who has stopped wanting.
If you devote your life only to the pursuit of happiness you will be miserable; however if you devote your life to doing God's will you will find inner peace in the purpose for which He made you. The preacher reveals that satisfaction is a gift that comes by faith in Him.
The apostle Paul wrote, “I have learned the secret of being content”. It is learned behavior, an acquired skill. Satisfaction comes not in religion or philosophies of man, but in the relationship we can have with our creator. Faith points to Jesus who began his kingdom at his revelation the first time and promises that at His return it will be revealed to the entire world. That forever hope in the Almighty gives us the power to endure all things. That faith in truth from God is what allowed Abraham to be willing to offer his son Isaac. That hope allowed Paul to say while in chains, "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength" God allows us to hunger and thirst, to be discontented so we will be hungry enough and thirsty enough to search for one that can truly satisfy.
As we looked last week, Eccl 5:19 Moreover, when God gives any man wealth and possessions, and enables him to enjoy them, to accept his lot and be happy in his work-- this is a gift of God.”
This gift brings salvation, which we now know is by faith and trust in Jesus Christ as He was revealed to fulfill what Old Testament saints longed to understand.
Pastor Dale
Theme- Seeking Satisfaction
Verses: Eccl 6:1, 2 I have seen another evil under the sun, and it weighs heavily on men:
God gives a man wealth, possessions and honor, so that he lacks nothing his heart desires, but God does not enable him to enjoy them, and a stranger enjoys them instead. This is meaningless, a grievous evil.
Seeking Satisfaction in Things
As we have been going through Ecclesiastes I am reminded how often Solomon addresses the emptiness of materialism. Perhaps it is for a reason, since it has such a grip on our society. We do re-evaluations of things in our lives at economic downturns like what are experiencing, or end life issues when we reflect on what is really important.
When we used to take our kids to McDonalds they always wanted the same thing. There were not so interested in the food as the prize. The prize in those colorful boxes was worth maybe 20 cents but for the moment getting it was all that mattered. McDonalds called this a Happy meal. You were not just buying hamburgers fries, and a dinosaur stamp. You were buying happiness.
When they tore into the bag and ripped open their prize the happiness didn’t last very long. It was over in a matter of seconds. I thought of suing the company for false advertising. Happiness was an illusion. Not one child says, “Remember that Happy meal? What great joy I found there.”
I did the same thing when little prizes were put in cereal boxes. I told Mom how much I loved the cereal only to leave it on the shelf after the prize was obtained.
When you get older you don't get any smarter; your Happy Meals just get more expensive. All day long the advertising industry wants to highlight discontentment and lure us into buying their product that will change our lives and bring satisfaction. TV actors smile with renewed energy after they used the product. We seldom smile.
Last week as we studied about wealth the wise King concluded it does not bring satisfaction. All that people strive to accumulate in this world will eventually be taken away. We concluded chapter 5 by reminding ourselves happiness is a gift from God. All your money as well as your ability to enjoy it is a gift from God. But in chapter 6 he reflects on five other ways people continue the treadmill of seeking satisfaction.
Solomon was in the unique possession having anything he wanted. There was nothing that his heart desired that he couldn’t get. The lure of the lottery is that one can finally be rich enough to get whatever they wanted, cars, vacations, new homes, education, sex, clothes- then they will be satisfied.
Too often self esteem is wrapped up in things. But the more things people consume the more they are dissatisfied. Until our piles grow beyond our house and we build larger storage buildings to keep it all in.
The evil, Solomon says, is when you get all the things that you thought would make you happy and they don't. Even though he was wise enough to know the Lord allowed him to have these things, satisfaction was not found in those things. God did not give him that.
"Millionaires seldom smile" said Andrew Carnegie. John D. Rockefeller said, "Great wealth is a burden destroying the real zest of life and burnishing peace from the heart." Solomon said it thousands of years before. Satisfaction is not in things.
Pastor Dale
Sermon nuggets Tues March 24, 2009
Verses- Eccl 6:3-6 A man may have a hundred children and live many years; yet no matter how long he lives, if he cannot enjoy his prosperity and does not receive proper burial, I say that a stillborn child is better off than he.
It comes without meaning, it departs in darkness, and in darkness its name is shrouded.
Though it never saw the sun or knew anything, it has more rest than does that man--even if he lives a thousand years twice over but fails to enjoy his prosperity. Do not all go to the same place?
Seeking Satisfaction in Family and Retirement v.3-6
I wasn’t sure if I should highlight Retirement or Family. Prosperity seems to mean enjoying life as an older person.
When I wrote this sermon I was a younger man and enjoying my family at home. Now that I have turned a corner I think ahead of how to “finish well”. When the children leave it is an adjustment again to daily activities. Solomon had well over 100 kids. I wonder if he could keep all their names straight. But he reflects over what is must be like living 2,000 years on earth, that thought does not appeal to him. He is discovering these latter days are not that much fun. Death ends it all and at the time of burial what difference does it make how nice the casket looks or the beauty of a floral display except in the memories of the loved ones? Funerals are for the living, not for the dead. Rich and poor, family filled or by one’s self death ends all relationships and all we have is left behind. In his despairing thoughts someone never born or dying as an infant means he does not experience the pain of this fallen world.
Solomon certainly sees life from the dark side when his heart is troubled. He tells us that satisfaction is not always found in families. Family certainly is more satisfying than things. A man rich with family is blessed if there is love. But did you ever really stop to think that is a gift from God? It is not something we produce ourselves.
I feel frustrated when after all I try to do to warn Christian young people not to marry non Christians, and they still look at immediate emotional desires instead of God’s word which brings wisdom for the long view. An innocent relationship soon turns into something deeper and more involved. Faith in Jesus is the spiritual glue for bonding of hearts.
Another misconception is thinking a wife or a husband will make us fulfilled. “And they got married and lived happily ever after.” That is great for fairy tales, but all good marriages take a lot of work, patience, forgiveness, and learning to give, give and give some more. No spouse can meet all your needs. It is a wonderful thing to have a mate who helps you face the realities of work, kids, stress, tension and financial challenges. Love is an emotional support but must be based on long range commitment even when days are not so happy. Trust is earned when one proves trustworthy during the hard times as well as the fun ones.
But Solomon tried to make his family his way, not God's way and he was very unhappy. In his day the foreign nations around him showed their wealth by having lots of things, but they also showed off, by having lots of wives. So Solomon thought, “I'll show them, whose greater”, and took 1,000 wives as an object lesson to them of his extreme wealth and you can image how many children he had. He did not follow God's direction for marriage. He did not marry only one believer. He married for physical attraction; he married for sexual stimulation; he married for political alliances. He married to show his power and his greatness and found family life did not bring to him satisfaction.
I know there are many men who leave work and absolutely dread going home. There are many women who dread when their husbands come home. There are children whose worse times are when they have to be with their families.
Now let me say this. My family means more to me than anything in this world, next to Jesus Christ. There is nothing that can cause more joy but also more hurt and disappointment as one's family.
Many a young wife thinks having a baby will help regain the love of a husband, but find after a baby comes more stress is added to an unhappy relationship. As parents get older there are obligations and responsibilities that adult children take over. In-laws will also be affected with these life changes that can be draining in family relationships and resources. Love takes commitment in all stages of life.
As a couple looks forward to retirement there are unexpected events that are thrown their way. Retirement accounts are no longer there to enjoy the “good life”. Financial difficulties of adult children sometimes demand help which can drain a bank account. Many a grandparent finds the need to raise the grandchildren after they thought their child rearing days were over. There is no better robber of joy than ill health and unexpected disease. And there stark reality comes that no matter how much family means to us we must leave each and every one of them. Death comes to us all. Kids grow up and marry. Some get divorced, Some have broken relationships some move out of the area. But eventually all my family will leave me by death or I them. I cannot keep them here forever.
When we lay to rest our loved ones the greatest pain is the grief of sorrow of separation. Love is worth it. But the pain of death and adjustments will affect us all our days and the longing for heaven becomes stronger. The desires of this earth lose more of their meaning. Happiness here becomes a short lived illusion. That is why faith in an eternal God and knowing life is ours beyond the grave, give hope.
The only thing you can take to heaven with you is your children, if they know the Lord. There is a forever family that is also greater than our blood relatives. We find the rest of the story in the person of Jesus Christ. When one comes to faith in Jesus Christ life takes on a different purpose. One is part of a new family. There is a love that is beyond even family love. But outside of Jesus Christ we can say, It is better never to have been born at all than never to have been born again! Christ brings meaning to our relationships now and forever. Joy comes when He is at our center of families and prosperity.
Pastor Dale
Sermon nuggets Weds March 25, 2009
Verse- Eccl 6: All man's efforts are for his mouth, yet his appetite is never satisfied.
Seeking Satisfaction in Food
Now we come to some proverbs. We work to eat and eat to stay alive to work and the cycle continues. No matter how good or how much a meal we have, in just a short time we want to eat again. Hunger is only satisfied for a few hours at the most. We constantly need food. Satisfaction is short lived.
More times than I wish to admit I was so full I didn't want another bite. I had to take food home from restaurants. I skipped dinner because lunch was so much. But by 10 pm I was hunting around the refrigerator looking for morsels. I skipped and skimmed on some days when I knew that a pot luck is coming up or we were going out to eat, or having someone over for dessert.
I was watching the Biggest Loser program a week ago when some contestants were allowed 24 hours of luxury. They could go off their diets. But temptation was too strong. They not only ate some food they longed for they also binged in drinking and eating resulting in feelings of remorse afterwards when some gained wait and others didn’t lose anything in spite of all the work outs they did other days. The sin of gluttony is a temptation that gives in to the lusts of my stomach.
But God lets people like me discover in various degrees the consequences of thinking food will satisfy. Many who are grossly overweight eat to cover up troubles, or tension or worry or anxiety. If I have a particularly stressful day I want to eat more and reward myself with goodies that are only to be used sparingly. "I deserve it" I say to myself. I owe it to myself, I lie. Then instead of doing things according to the wisdom of my mind, one yields to gluttony.
Look at Prov 16:26 "The laborer's appetite works for him; his hunger drives him on." If one is hungry he learns to work. It is a great motivation against laziness.
Now in Hebrew poetry hunger and appetite probably means the hunger of the soul which is not satisfied, which may mean that work doesn't bring satisfaction to an empty life. Hard work doesn't bring relief from depression if there are conflicts that feed the soul with discouragement.
Food does not satisfy. It is pleasurable for a time but unless there are life changes, we pay the consequences for unhealthy eating habits.
Someone asked me an interesting question. “Pastor, is it wrong to ask God to bless the meal when you know it is unhealthy junk food?” What do you think?
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Thurs March 26
Verses- Eccl 6:8,9 What advantage has a wise man over a fool? What does a poor man gain by knowing how to conduct himself before others?
9 Better what the eye sees than the roving of the appetite. This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind.
Seeking Satisfaction in Ambition v. 8 & 9
I certainly am glad I don’t have to live those teen years over again. The insecurities of self doubt, seeking acceptance by others, and wanting to be liked is seeking too often to live up to others expectations. Ambition can be good, but how often what I want is influence on what others have. How to get what I want isn’t always the best for me.
It is naïve to think those days are over when we are older. We constantly compare ourselves with others looking for acceptance, and especially self acceptance. Our ambitions motivate us to do better. Our frustrations and depression come too often by situations over which we have no control or say. Fame and popularity don’t last. Embarrassments come when we don’t think we are accepted by what we say or do or wear or how far we come to meet the expectations of others and especially our own expectations.
The Lord knew what he was doing when he gave us that 10th commandment, “Thou shall not covet.” We compare ourselves and judge ourselves by what they have, their status, their positions, and their abilities. If we are poor we dream what it would be like to be rich. We might see someone who is smart and want to be like them. We listen to someone musical and dream about those talents. If we have a small house we envy those with bigger ones. Many times our dreams make us dissatisfied with the reality.
Soren Siebold wrote this parable: The Terribly, Tragically Sad Man. I am condensing it.
"Once there was a boy who lived in a big house on a hill. One day the boy said to God, "I've been thinking and I know what I want when I become a man." "What?" asked God.
"I want to live in a big house with a porch across the front and two St. Bernards and a garden out back. I want to marry a woman who is tall and very beautiful and kind, who has long, black hair and blue eyes and who plays the guitar and sings in a clear, high voice. I want three strong sons to play football with . When they grow up, one will be a great scientist, one will be a Senator and the youngest will be a quarterback for the 49ers. I want to be an adventurer who sails vast ocean and climbs tall mountains and rescues people.
"That sounds like a nice dream" said God. "I want you to be happy."
One day playing football the boy hurt his knees; he couldn't climb tall mountains or even tall tress, must less sail vast oceans. So he studied marketing and started a medical supplies business.
He married a girl who was very beautiful and very kind who had long black hair, but she was short, not tall and had brown eyes, not blue. She couldn't play the guitar or sing. But she prepared wonderful meals and painted magnificent pictures of birds.
Because of his business, he lived in a city near the top of a tall apartment building. He didn't have room for two Saint Bernards, but he had a fluffy cat. He had three daughters, all very beautiful. The youngest, who was in a wheelchair, was the loveliest. They loved their father very much. They didn't play football with him, but sometimes they went to the park and tossed a Frisbee-except for the youngest who sat under a tree strumming her guitar and singing lovely songs.
Then one morning the man awoke and remembered his dream. "I am very sad." He said to his best friend. "Why?" asked his friend.
"Because I once dreamed of marrying a tall woman with black hair, and blue eyes who would play the guitar, and could sing. My wife can't play the guitar and sing. She has brown eyes and she's not tall. "
"Oh But your wife is beautiful and very kind," said his friend. "She creates splendid pictures and delectable food." But the man wasn't listening.
"I am very sad.” The man confessed to his wife one day. Why?
“Because I once dreamed of living in a big house with a porch and having two St Bernards and a garden out back. Instead I live in an apartment building"
"Our apartment is comfortable. We have love, laughter, paintings of birds and a fluffy cat-not to mention three beautiful girls.” But the man wasn't listening.
"I am very sad," the man said to the therapist. "Why? "
“Because I once dreamed that I would grow up to be a great adventurer. Instead I'm a bald business man with a bad knee."
"The medical supplies you sell have saved many lives”. Said the therapist, but the man wasn't listening. So his therapist charged him
$110 and sent him home.
"I am very sad" the man said to his minister. "Why?"
Because I once dreamed of having three sons, a great scientist, a politician and a quarterback; instead I have 3 daughters and the youngest can't even walk."
“But your daughters are beautiful and intelligent.” Said the minster, “They love you very much and they've all done well. One is a nurse, the other an artist, and the youngest teaches music to children." But the man wasn't listening.
He was so sad that he became very sick. He lay in a hospital room. Tubes and wires connect his body to blinking machines that he once sold to the hospital. He was terribly, tragically sad.
Then one night when everyone except the nurse had gone home. The man said to God. "Remember when I was a boy and I told you all things I wanted? "
"It was lovely dream." said God.
"Why didn't you give me those things?" asked the man.
"I could have" said God, "But I wanted to surprise you with things you didn't dream of. I suppose you've notice what I've given you; a kind beautiful wife, a good business a nice place to live, three lovely daughters, one of best packages I've put together."
"Yes interrupted the man, "But I thought you were going to give me what I really wanted."
"And I thought you were going to give me what I really wanted.” Said God."
"What did you want?" asked the man. It had never occurred to him that God was in want of anything.
"I wanted to make you happy with what I'd give you." said God.
The man thought. Then he decided to dream that he wanted most were the very things he already had.
And the man got well and lived happily on the 47th floor, enjoying his children's beautiful voices, his wife's deep brown eyes and her glorious paintings of birds."
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Fri March 27
Verses- Eccl 6:10-12 10 Whatever exists has already been named, and what man is has been known; no man can contend with one who is stronger than he.
11 The more the words, the less the meaning, and how does that profit anyone?
12 For who knows what is good for a man in life, during the few and meaningless days he passes through like a shadow? Who can tell him what will happen under the sun after he is gone?
(NIV)
Seeking Satisfaction in Philosophy v. 10-12
There is value in all pursuits when one seeks meaning and satisfaction in who he is and what he does. It allows life to be examined and as the philosopher Socrates said to Plato, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” The search for meaning, some will say, is more important than the conclusion. Just to discover more of truth and expose falsehoods is of value, the philosophers will argue.
I minored in Philosophy at the University. I enjoyed listening to various arguments but I was more interested in the conclusions rather than the process of arguments. Yes, I learned the faulty reasoning when I studied logic. But I confess, I was frustrated reading volumes of writers and thinkers who were going down the wrong path. Of course, the bases of such education was there was no absolute truth. Find what people say makes sense and follow truth for you. It is all relative.
The value of it, I confess, was minimal. It did help me sort out thought process, and helped me to see how other people arrive at some conclusions in their dialogues and exploration of meaning. But since I experienced Jesus Christ and discovered truth didn't come from my conclusions but rather His revealtion, I decided to devote my life to answers, not just the questions which leave people floundering.
Solomon is wise. He brings people down the path of both experiencing life and thinking about it. As he presents the various answers to satisfaction, he reveals the inward emptiness when faced with death and no hope. If that is all there is, what is the meaning of all this endless search? Man left to himself is finite. He does not know the future, he cannot second guess God. He cannot make his life better doing things his own way.
I see a vast number of people running after meaning in man-made philosophies, spirituality, and political pursuits.
The nation is at a deadlock when various political powers are at odds to solve the world problems and financial principles that will bring us out of the economic crises. The reason they differ is their philosophy of financial recovery.
But Solomon argues that meaning for anything within ourselves is insufficient. We were made to have a relationship with God not a religion. Going through man made rituals to appease God don't work and even religion leaves us dissatisfied.
vs. 10 whatever exists has already been named. This observation tells us God is sovereign. One poet said it, "Not til the loom is silent and the shuttles cease to fly. Will God unroll his canvas and explain the reason why.. The dark threads are as needful in the weaver's skillful hands. As the thread of gold and scarlet in the pattern He has planned."
What is man? He is the clay. God is the potter. God is infinite; we are finite. God is all powerful; mankind is limited in strength and ability. God is faithful; we are unfaithful and inconsistent. The point is clear. (Ish 45:9-12) Clay pots don’t argue with their maker.
What about the future? Are you fearful? Who knows what the future
holds? The satisfied person is not the one who gets everything he or she wants. It is the person who has stopped wanting.
If you devote your life only to the pursuit of happiness you will be miserable; however if you devote your life to doing God's will you will find inner peace in the purpose for which He made you. The preacher reveals that satisfaction is a gift that comes by faith in Him.
The apostle Paul wrote, “I have learned the secret of being content”. It is learned behavior, an acquired skill. Satisfaction comes not in religion or philosophies of man, but in the relationship we can have with our creator. Faith points to Jesus who began his kingdom at his revelation the first time and promises that at His return it will be revealed to the entire world. That forever hope in the Almighty gives us the power to endure all things. That faith in truth from God is what allowed Abraham to be willing to offer his son Isaac. That hope allowed Paul to say while in chains, "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength" God allows us to hunger and thirst, to be discontented so we will be hungry enough and thirsty enough to search for one that can truly satisfy.
As we looked last week, Eccl 5:19 Moreover, when God gives any man wealth and possessions, and enables him to enjoy them, to accept his lot and be happy in his work-- this is a gift of God.”
This gift brings salvation, which we now know is by faith and trust in Jesus Christ as He was revealed to fulfill what Old Testament saints longed to understand.
Pastor Dale
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