9 Biblical Principles To Overcome Besetting Sins
Principles To Overcome Habitual Sin In Your Life…
Hebrews 12:1 – “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,”
For the SIH Bible Study On This Subject:
The Besetting Sins In Our Lives Part 2
Overcoming Habitual Sins
Hebrews 12:1 – “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,”
What is a “besetting sin”? In our previous study we saw that a “besetting sin” was a sin that will sneak up on us, work quickly to return and saturate our lives. Easily besetting sins totally encase the Christian giving no room for human escape to be had. It is as if they have become a permanent part of our life, and no matter what method we try to rid it from our lives, it returns and grows worse with time.
As Christians with besetting sin in our lives… what are we to do? In part 2 of our series we are going to look at some basic principles that will help us to oppose these habitual controlling sins in our lives…
We will look at these 9 principles in part #2 of our study.
THE SCRIPTURE:
Hebrews 12:1 – “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,”
THE STUDY:
Remember in our text we are told to “let us lay aside… and the sin which doth so easily beset us”. What a blessing it would be if we could easily lay aside these besetting sins! But keep in mind, the Lord did not say “easily lay aside…”, not at all instead He said that sin “easily beset(s)” us!
This is our lot in life as a part of fallen mankind. Sins will quite easily enter our lives. But laying aside those sins will only be accomplished through God’s divine intervention in this spiritual warfare that is taking place. What instructions does it give for the Christian to be successful in this war? The Bible gives us at least 9 truths we are to recognize and apply to our lives to give us the victory in this war…
1. Recognize The Seriousness Of The Sin It is A Sin Against Our Lord, The One Who Has Died For Us
Psa 51:4 –“Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight:…”
2. Recognize Our Inability To Lay This Sin Aside Due To Our Fallen Nature
Rom 7:25 – “I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.”
3. Recognize Christ’s Ability To Intervene And Give Us The Victory Over This Sin
1Co 15:55-57 – “O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
4. Recognize The Need To Commit Ourselves To God
Jas 4:7-8 – “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.”
5. Recognize The Need Of Swift Repentance When The Sin Appears In Our Lives
Psa 32:5 – “I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the LORD; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah.”
6. Recognize The Need To Ask Lord For Help
Mat 7:8 – “For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.”
7. Recognize Our Transformation… We Are No Longer Under Sins Bondage
Rom 6:11 – “Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
8. Recognize Need To God To Lengths To Avoid Temptation. Temptation Gives Entrance To These Sins
Mat 5:29-30 – “And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell. And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.”
Jas 1:13-15 – “Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.”
9. Recognize The Necessity Of Consistently Dwelling In God’s Word and Prayer
1Th 5:17 – “Pray without ceasing.”
Joh 17:17 – “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.”
Psa 37:31 – “The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide.”
May the Lord grant to us all the grace and strength needed to lay aside the besetting sins of our lives!
Rom 6:12 – “Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.”
Questions, Comments, or Suggestions? Email me at: rob.barkman@settledinheaven.org
http://www.settledinheaven.org
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Do We Stand In For Those Who Desire To Serve Others?
Php 2:22-24 – “But ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel. Him therefore I hope to send presently, so soon as I shall see how it will go with me. But I trust in the Lord that I also myself shall come shortly.”
For the SIH devotional on this subject:
Philippians 2:22-24: “Helping Others Through Friends”
INTRODUCTION TO OUR SERIES:
Background to Philippians…
The Apostle Paul wrote the epistle (personal letter) (1:1) to the Philippian church, probably during his imprisonment in Rome. The letter was written from a heart of love and concern for the Philippians. Due to Paul’s imprisonment, he could not personally visit with the church so he sent this letter with Timothy to encourage them and bring back news of their condition to Paul. (2:19).
Some of the main divisions of the book include:
1. Introduction to the book: 1:1-2
2. Paul’s thankfulness for the Philippians: 1:3-11
3. News of Paul’s imprisonment and dedication: 1:12-26
4. Following Christ’s example is our duty: 1:27-2:18
5. Paul’s representatives and the need to treat them kindly: 2:19-30
6. Paul’s example of living a joyous life: 3:1-11
7. The Christian’s heavenly calling: 3:12-21
8. The need for Godly living: 4:1-9
9. The love offerings of the Philippians: 4:10-20
10. Closing to the book of Philippians: 4:21-23
TODAY’S TEXT:
Php 2:22-24 – “But ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel. Him therefore I hope to send presently, so soon as I shall see how it will go with me. But I trust in the Lord that I also myself shall come shortly.”
TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL:
Paul now promises the Philippian believers that he will send Timothy to them soon…
But ye know the proof of him, that, as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the gospel.
The Philippians were familiar with Timothy and his life that has been proved to be faithful to the Lord. He had worked for Paul in spreading the gospel, much like a son would labor to meet the needs of his father. This would include loving Paul, respecting Paul, protecting Paul, and learning from Paul much like in a son’s relationship with his father.
Him therefore I hope to send presently, so soon as I shall see how it will go with me.
Paul hoped to send Timothy very quickly, just as soon as Paul knew his fate. This would help Paul to understand what his short-term needs for Timothy might be. As soon as Timothy was no longer an absolute necessity for Paul, he would be sending Timothy to them.
But I trust in the Lord that I also myself shall come shortly.
Paul’s hope was to also visit with the Philippians very soon. Again, this would also be based upon what Paul’s future would hold.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION:
Paul’s sending of Timothy to the Philippians is a good example of self-sacrifice for the good of others. Paul was willing to temporarily give up his “right hand man” for the sake of the believers at Philippi.
But also, we can learn a very important lesson about using other Christians to help those whom we cannot help. The Philippians needed to be encouraged and strengthened following them hearing of Paul’s imprisonment. Although Paul could not visit them and personally encourage them, he would be sending Timothy to fulfill that task.
There are times when we cannot help others who we see in need, whether due to a lack of opportunity, lack of talent talent, lack of experience or other reason. In those cases, we are to look for other Christians who will be more able to meet the need.
Likewise there are times, as Christians, when we are approached by another Christian about their inability to meet a need of another, we are to be willing to step in for them and seek to meet the need at hand.
Do we see those with needs around us? If so, are we willing and able to meet that need? If we are unable are we seeking others who can stand in our place to meet the need?
Has a Christian brother or sister asked us to step up and meet another’s needs? If so, are we willing to do so, even if the one in need is a total stranger to us?
May we all be used of the Lord in great ways to meet the needs of others and seek out help for those whom cannot help ourselves.
Questions, Comments, or Suggestions?
Email me at: rob.barkman@settledinheaven.org
Homepage… http://www.settledinheaven.org
Text Blog… http://www.settledinheaven.wordpress.com
Video Blog… http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven
Do We Care For Others Or Seek Our Own?
Php 2:19-21 – “But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state. For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state. For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ’s.”
For the SIH devotional on this subject:
Philippians 2:19-21: “Naturally Caring For Others”
INTRODUCTION TO OUR SERIES:
Background to Philippians…
The Apostle Paul wrote the epistle (personal letter) (1:1) to the Philippian church, probably during his imprisonment in Rome. The letter was written from a heart of love and concern for the Philippians. Due to Paul’s imprisonment, he could not personally visit with the church so he sent this letter with Timothy to encourage them and bring back news of their condition to Paul. (2:19).
Some of the main divisions of the book include:
1. Introduction to the book: 1:1-2
2. Paul’s thankfulness for the Philippians: 1:3-11
3. News of Paul’s imprisonment and dedication: 1:12-26
4. Following Christ’s example is our duty: 1:27-2:18
5. Paul’s representatives and the need to treat them kindly: 2:19-30
6. Paul’s example of living a joyous life: 3:1-11
7. The Christian’s heavenly calling: 3:12-21
8. The need for Godly living: 4:1-9
9. The love offerings of the Philippians: 4:10-20
10. Closing to the book of Philippians: 4:21-23
TODAY’S TEXT:
Php 2:19-21 – “But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state. For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state. For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ’s.”
TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL:
Paul voices his concern for the believers at Philippi. Because of his concern, Paul sent Timothy to them to deliver this letter, encourage them, and find out how they are doing….
But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you,
Paul was trusting the Lord to watch over Timothy and give him a safe arrival at Philippi.
that I also may be of good comfort, when I know your state.
Timothy’s return to Paul, with a good report of the Philippian’s condition, would encourage Paul and put him in good spirits.
For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state.
Paul knew he was the only one with the same care and concern for his Philippian brothers and sisters in Christ. It was only a natural set of feelings for Paul to have for them. After all, he was instrumental in their salvation, the founding of their local church, and the situation they faced there.
There was no one else who played this same role in the lives of the Philippian believers. He is ending them Timothy because he is the only one currently with Paul who shares in some of Paul’s concern for the Philippian believers.
For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ’s.
The prevailing attitude among Christians was an attitude of selfishness, possessing an attitude of care for their own self only. They did not have a servant’s heart towards Christ and others. They did not have a concern for the wellbeing of others, nor did they want to help others to serve Christ in greater ways.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION:
Stop and think about it. The heart of a Christian should be to place the Lord and others before self. Christ gave Himself for us. It should be only a “natural” thing to give of ourselves in return. We all were lost but now we are found. It should only be “natural” we want to give of ourselves for others so they can see Christ in us and come to a saving knowledge of Him as well.
Sadly the “norm” among Christians today, as in Paul’s day, is to possess a selfish attitude centering on our own needs, wants, and desires. This stands in stark opposition to the “natural” attitude for the Christian should be to possess a humble spirit placing the Lord and others above ourselves.
What personal sacrifices have made for Christ and others? This will help us to understand what is in our heart…
Do we have “naturally” a heart like Paul and Timothy or are we the “norm” among Christians?
Questions, Comments, or Suggestions?
Email me at: rob.barkman@settledinheaven.org
Homepage… http://www.settledinheaven.org
Text Blog… http://www.settledinheaven.wordpress.com
Video Blog… http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven
Do We Rejoice When We Sacrifice For The Cause Of Christ?
Php 2:17-18 – “Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all. For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me.”
For the SIH devotional on this subject:
Philippians 2:17-18: “Rejoice… You Are Called To Be A Sacrifice For Christ”
INTRODUCTION TO OUR SERIES:
Background to Philippians…
The Apostle Paul wrote the epistle (personal letter) (1:1) to the Philippian church, probably during his imprisonment in Rome. The letter was written from a heart of love and concern for the Philippians. Due to Paul’s imprisonment, he could not personally visit with the church so he sent this letter with Timothy to encourage them and bring back news of their condition to Paul. (2:19).
Some of the main divisions of the book include:
1. Introduction to the book: 1:1-2
2. Paul’s thankfulness for the Philippians: 1:3-11
3. News of Paul’s imprisonment and dedication: 1:12-26
4. Following Christ’s example is our duty: 1:27-2:18
5. Paul’s representatives and the need to treat them kindly: 2:19-30
6. Paul’s example of living a joyous life: 3:1-11
7. The Christian’s heavenly calling: 3:12-21
8. The need for Godly living: 4:1-9
9. The love offerings of the Philippians: 4:10-20
10. Closing to the book of Philippians: 4:21-23
TODAY’S TEXT:
Php 2:17-18 – “Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all. For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me.”
TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL:
Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith,
Here we find that Paul was willing to give his life for the sake of the salvation of those at Philippi. Paul is picturing the giving of his entire being (his body, wellbeing and physical life) by the pouring out of a drink offering. Just like a cup is emptied as the drink offering is poured out, so too Paul was willing to be emptied of all his physical strength, health, and even physical life, to see the Philippians come to a saving faith in Christ.
Paul is saying that he was called upon, and willing to, give his all in his service for Christ.
I joy, and rejoice with you all.
Not only was Paul willing to give his all during the course of service to Christ, but he actually counted it his joy, which would be shared by those who came to faith in Christ at Philippi.
“I joy” refers to Paul being joyous because he was given the opportunity to sacrificially give of himself for Christ.
“rejoice with you all” refers to Paul being joyous for the Philippians who had come to faith in Christ and were not eternally secure in Him.
For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me.”
Paul knew the Philippians shared in this reciprocal joy with Paul.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION:
Folks, are we willing to give our all for Christ?
Above that, are we thankful and joyous for the opportunity to empty ourselves for Him?
What a blessing and privilege for us to be able to give of ourselves for the cause of Christ, knowing our service will reap eternal rewards for us and make an eternal difference in the lives of those around us!
Questions, Comments, or Suggestions?
Email me at: rob.barkman@settledinheaven.org
Homepage… http://www.settledinheaven.org
Text Blog… http://www.settledinheaven.wordpress.com
Video Blog… http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven
Does The Light Of Christ Shine Brightly In Our Lives?
Php 2:14-16 – “Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.”
For the SIH devotional on this subject:
Philippians 2:14-16: “Shine As Lights In the World”
INTRODUCTION TO OUR SERIES:
Background to Philippians…
The Apostle Paul wrote the epistle (personal letter) (1:1) to the Philippian church, probably during his imprisonment in Rome. The letter was written from a heart of love and concern for the Philippians. Due to Paul’s imprisonment, he could not personally visit with the church so he sent this letter with Timothy to encourage them and bring back news of their condition to Paul. (2:19).
Some of the main divisions of the book include:
1. Introduction to the book: 1:1-2
2. Paul’s thankfulness for the Philippians: 1:3-11
3. News of Paul’s imprisonment and dedication: 1:12-26
4. Following Christ’s example is our duty: 1:27-2:18
5. Paul’s representatives and the need to treat them kindly: 2:19-30
6. Paul’s example of living a joyous life: 3:1-11
7. The Christian’s heavenly calling: 3:12-21
8. The need for Godly living: 4:1-9
9. The love offerings of the Philippians: 4:10-20
10. Closing to the book of Philippians: 4:21-23
TODAY’S TEXT:
Php 2:14-16 – “Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.”
TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL:
Paul now instructs the Philippians on how to have testimonies that will shine brightly in the midst of a fallen world….
Do all things without murmurings and disputings:
The Philippian believers were to do all things without complaining or arguing. These had to do with their willingness to be submissive to the authorities over them. They were to willingly submit to the will of their family leaders; church; government; masters; and, most importantly, their Lord.
That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; Holding forth the word of life;
This testimony of submission to higher authorities would result in them being seen as:
1. be blameless and harmless – unable to be accused and innocent
2. the sons of God – members of the family of God
3. without rebuke – without fault
4. among whom ye shine as lights in the world; – lights that shine brightly revealing Christ and His Word
This wonderful light-filled testimony would take place “in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation” in other words, in the midst of a twisted, corrupted world.
that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.”
The shining testimony of the Philippian believers would bring rejoicing to Paul’s when he stood before the Lord to give answer for his ministry. Their faithfulness would be proof that Paul’s service on their behalf was not worthless.
Paul pictures his service to Christ as a race and as working at a job. Both have an end goal, both take much effort and both are done according to guidelines that were given. So too, our service to the Lord. The Lord gives us specific opportunities to share Him with others, according to guidelines He has given to us, which will take effort on our part and enabling on His part.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION:
When we have are in submission to those who are placed over us, we find ourselves shining brightly, revealing Christ to others around us. One of the hallmarks of Christ’s ministry on the earth was His submission to His Father and the other authorities over Him. When we willfully submit to our authorities, we are placing before others a wonderful example of the submissive spirit of Christ.
May we all strive to live in submission to the authorities around us as we seek to show Christ to a lost and dying world.
Questions, Comments, or Suggestions?
Email me at: rob.barkman@settledinheaven.org
Homepage… http://www.settledinheaven.org
Text Blog… http://www.settledinheaven.wordpress.com
Video Blog… http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven
Do We Complete The Tasks The Lord Has Given To Us?
Php 2:12-13 – “Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.”
For the SIH devotional on this subject:
Philippians 2:12-13: “God Hath Highly Exalted Christ”
INTRODUCTION TO OUR SERIES:
Background to Philippians…
The Apostle Paul wrote the epistle (personal letter) (1:1) to the Philippian church, probably during his imprisonment in Rome. The letter was written from a heart of love and concern for the Philippians. Due to Paul’s imprisonment, he could not personally visit with the church so he sent this letter with Timothy to encourage them and bring back news of their condition to Paul. (2:19).
Some of the main divisions of the book include:
1. Introduction to the book: 1:1-2
2. Paul’s thankfulness for the Philippians: 1:3-11
3. News of Paul’s imprisonment and dedication: 1:12-26
4. Following Christ’s example is our duty: 1:27-2:18
5. Paul’s representatives and the need to treat them kindly: 2:19-30
6. Paul’s example of living a joyous life: 3:1-11
7. The Christian’s heavenly calling: 3:12-21
8. The need for Godly living: 4:1-9
9. The love offerings of the Philippians: 4:10-20
10. Closing to the book of Philippians: 4:21-23
TODAY’S TEXT:
Php 2:12-13 – “Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.”
TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL:
Wherefore, my beloved,
Before Paul gives the Philippian believers practical instruction, he reminds them of his great love for them. He was writing to them out of a heart of concern and care wanting only to help them and encourage then in the Lord. He was not instructing them out of a critical, fault-finding spirit, nor did he teach these things for his own personal gain.
as ye have always obeyed,
First, Paul commends them for their consistent service for Christ. He describes their service as “always obey(ing)” Christ. In other words, they served the Lord at every opportunity, without regard to the individual opposition or circumstance they may face.
The Greek word for “obeyed” is a very interesting word. It combines the ideas of listening, following and submitting. They obeyed the Lord consistently by SUBMITTING to His authority in their life which was shown by them LISTENING to His teachings and FOLLOWING His instructions and example.
not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence,
Paul also commends them for not hypocritically serving the Lord, just for appearance sake. Paul recognized they did not serve the lord only when Paul was present to receive his praise. On the contrary, Paul saw that they continued faithful in service even when he was not there to see them, encourage them, and praise them.
work out your own salvation
Paul is not telling the believers to work faithfully in an effort to gain, or retain their salvation. Paul is clear in many, many other places of Scripture that the initial salvation experience, the retention of that salvation, and the completion of that salvation are all entirely of God’s grace apart from the works of man.
“work out” – in other words, work to completion, do not stop before the task is accomplished
“your own salvation” – the change that has taken place in your life through the graces you have been given.
In other words, Paul instructs the Philippians to serve the Lord faithfully until each task is complete. They are to do this by exercising the graces given to them, as ones who are saved from their sins. This would include spiritual fruits, Holy Spirit empowering, etc etc. In that sense, they are to “work out”
their “own salvation”… ie “actively use the graces related to your salvation experience to bring the task at hand to completion”
This principle is brought out in Rom 6:18-22:
“Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness.
For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness. What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death. But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.”
with fear and trembling.
Two of the great motives that are to drive the believer to faithfully complete each task presented to them is “fear” and “trembling”…
1. “fear” – alarm, fright, dread. The Greek word for fear is the word “phobos” from which we get our word “phobia”
2. “trembling” – to shake, to quiver from fear.
The above words, when taken together, CANNOT simply mean to reverence the Lord. The basic meaning of “phobos” along with the idea of shaking in fright, clearly presents fear and dread as a motive in our faithful service to the Lord.
In what way are Christians to be in dread of the Lord? Are they to fear a loss of salvation or eternal condemnation? Of course not, the Bible makes it plain that the Lord will always bring to completion the work of salvation that He has begun in the heart of the believer…
Php 1:6 – “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:”
Rom 8:29-30 – “For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.”
If this is true, then in what way are Christians to fear their Lord? They are to fear, or dread, His chastening hand upon those who are willfully disobedient to Him. From experience the Christian knows that the chastening of the Lord can be very stern and painful, meted out in an effort to bring the rebellious Christian back to a close walk with Christ.
Christian’s are to be much like a child who fears the chastening hand of his father, though the child knows he is loved and will always be a part of the family. So too, Christians are to fear the results of the chastening hand of God, while still confident in His love, adoption, and eternal security. After all, God’s chastening hand, although harsh, is meted out from a heart of love, for the believer’s good.
Heb 12:5-11
“And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.
If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.
Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live? For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness.
Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.”
For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.”
The Philippian believers were to keep in mind that all of their labors for Him were, in actuality, the Lord working within them. In other words, the believer’s exercise of spiritual gifts as they served the Lord was actually an act of the Lord enabling and empowering them in their walk with Him.
This is why they should not faint. This is why they should not quit in the midst of hardships. The Lord was working in them enabling them to complete the task that has been placed before them.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION:
What is a Christian to do? Based upon these instructions by Paul, we are to faithfully serve the Lord and bring our tasks to completion, without hypocrisy. We are to serve Him out of a recognition of His chastening hand and his gracious enabling in our lives.
Questions, Comments, or Suggestions?
Email me at: rob.barkman@settledinheaven.org
Homepage… http://www.settledinheaven.org
Text Blog… http://www.settledinheaven.wordpress.com
Video Blog… http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven
What Is A “Besetting Sin”?
A Look At The Habitual Sins In Our Lives
Hebrews 12:1 – “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,”
For the SIH devotional on this subject:
The Besetting Sins In Our Life Part #1
What are “Besetting Sins”?
Hebrews 12:1 – “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,”
What is a “besetting sin”? A quick study of the words translated “sin”, “easily beset” helps to give us the Biblical meaning of the phrase:
1. “sin” – comes from a Greek word meaning “to miss the mark” in other words it is to fail to reach a goal that has been set for us. It describes an archer who aims at the bullseye but misses it. As Christians, we are called to represent Christ in every area of our lives, we can do this by living lives that imitate Christ, motivated by a desire to bring honor and glory to Christ. This is the life goal of every Christian.
For example: Christ’s lived a perfectly genuine life on earth. His words could be counted on 100 % of the time, He never acted out of deceitful motives, nor did He mislead others in anyway. Therefore, to present Christ to the world we are to live honest, transparent, non-hypocritical lives.
If we live deceitful lives we are not following the example of Christ; we have missed the goal for which we are aiming; and, therefore, we have sinned. Anytime our life does not perfectly represent the absolutely holy life of Christ we are missing the “target” (our life goal) and, therefore, committing sin.
2. “easily beset” – comes from a Greek word that means “to be well-surrounded”, “to be totally encased”, or “to be entangled”. Also implied by this word is the idea of the ease and quickness that the encasing takes place.
Perhaps an invading army surprises an enemy city. Because of the surprise nature of the invasion, they face little or no opposition. As a result, they quickly, efficiently, and entirely surround and lay siege to the city. Inside the city the panicked citizens of the city look to their right; to their left; straight ahead; and straight behind; they look to the north, south, east and west; but all they can see is the enemy army… they quickly realize, they have been overcome and have no human way of escape.
This is just like an easily besetting sin. We think it is out of our lives but they will sneak up on us, work quickly to return and saturate our lives. Easily besetting sins totally encase the Christian giving no room for human escape to be had. It is as if they have become a permanent part of our life, and no matter what method we try to rid it from our lives, it returns and grows worse with time.
Some of the greatest Christians who ever lived have suffered from the besetting sins of life. Paul, himself, perhaps the greatest Christian who ever lived, admitted to facing besetting sins in his life. In Romans 7:15, he made the statement…
“For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.”
When Paul recognized a sin in his life, opposed it, and yet failed to overcome it… that was his besetting sin. If you read through the entire chapter of Romans 7, Paul paints a very vivid portrait of besetting sin and how it can affect us.
As Christians with besetting sin in our lives… what are we to do? The Bible helps us to understand some basic principles that will help us to oppose these habitual controlling sins in our lives…
We will look at these 9 principles in part #2 of our study.
Questions, Comments, or Suggestions? Email me at: rob.barkman@settledinheaven.org
http://www.settledinheaven.org
http://www.settledinheaven.wordpress.com
http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven
Share Christ With Others On Ground Hog Day
The SIH Ground Hog Day Devotional:
Are We Spiritual Ground Hogs?
Joh 8:12 – “Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.”
For this SIH devotional:
Christ’s Exaltation Is Proof Of His Faithfulness To The Father
Php 2:9-11 – “Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
For the SIH devotional on this subject:
Philippians 2:9-11: “God Hath Highly Exalted Christ”
INTRODUCTION TO OUR SERIES:
Background to Philippians…
The Apostle Paul wrote the epistle (personal letter) (1:1) to the Philippian church, probably during his imprisonment in Rome. The letter was written from a heart of love and concern for the Philippians. Due to Paul’s imprisonment, he could not personally visit with the church so he sent this letter with Timothy to encourage them and bring back news of their condition to Paul. (2:19).
Some of the main divisions of the book include:
1. Introduction to the book: 1:1-2
2. Paul’s thankfulness for the Philippians: 1:3-11
3. News of Paul’s imprisonment and dedication: 1:12-26
4. Following Christ’s example is our duty: 1:27-2:18
5. Paul’s representatives and the need to treat them kindly: 2:19-30
6. Paul’s example of living a joyous life: 3:1-11
7. The Christian’s heavenly calling: 3:12-21
8. The need for Godly living: 4:1-9
9. The love offerings of the Philippians: 4:10-20
10. Closing to the book of Philippians: 4:21-23
TODAY’S TEXT:
Php 2:9-11 – “Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL:
Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:
Because of the humility, obedience and service of Christ towards His Father and others, God has placed Him in the highest possible position of authority. This took place at His ascension when Christ was seated at the right hand of God (Mark 16:19, Acts 2:32-36).
Christ’s accomplishments while on the earth would bring about the highest possible level of reverence for His name. His name Jesus, Jehovah is our Savior, is now placed above every other name on earth. Through His humility, obedience, and service (which led to His sacrificial death on the cross) Christ became the Savior of all mankind.
That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;
The recognition and reverence of Christ’s name results in complete universal worship. Beginning at Armageddon and continuing throughout eternity, Christ will be universally worshipped by human beings throughout God’s creation. The saved in heaven, whose living on the earth during Armageddon, and the lost in the Lake of Fire, will all bring honor and glory to Christ and Him alone.
And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
Not only will the name of Christ be honored above all others, but the Lordship of Jesus will be proclaimed by every tongue. This will not only bring praise to Christ but also to His Father who has rightfully exalted Him. The exaltation was deserved by Christ due to His obedience and sacrifice for the Father… the exaltation of Christ not only reveals the greatness of Christ, but it also cries out of the perfect justice of the Father.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION:
At least two great blessings can be had by us from these verses…
First of all, we are reminded of the greatness of the Lord that we serve. He is the One that is exalted above all others, He is the One whose name is held in reverence above all names; He is the One who is in control of all things in heaven, in earth, and under the earth. He is truly King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
Secondly, in this text we can easily see the greatness of the sacrifice that our Lord has made on behalf of His people. His sacrifice was so great that He deserved to be exalted above all, worshipped throughout all eternity. His sacrifice was so powerful His name will forever be held in the highest of esteem.
Wow, stop and think about it. We have the privilege of serving the Lord of this universe. This privilege comes to us through His sacrifice which he worked on our behalf. May we praise and honor Him throughout our lifetimes for what He has done for us and in recognition of His exalted position as lord and Savior of man.
Questions, Comments, or Suggestions?
Email me at: rob.barkman@settledinheaven.org
Homepage… http://www.settledinheaven.org
Text Blog… http://www.settledinheaven.wordpress.com
Video Blog… http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven
Do We Have The Mind Of Christ?
Php 2:5-8 – “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.”
For the SIH devotional on this subject:
Philippians 2:5-8: “The Mind Of Christ”
INTRODUCTION TO OUR SERIES:
Background to Philippians…
The Apostle Paul wrote the epistle (personal letter) (1:1) to the Philippian church, probably during his imprisonment in Rome. The letter was written from a heart of love and concern for the Philippians. Due to Paul’s imprisonment, he could not personally visit with the church so he sent this letter with Timothy to encourage them and bring back news of their condition to Paul. (2:19).
Some of the main divisions of the book include:
1. Introduction to the book: 1:1-2
2. Paul’s thankfulness for the Philippians: 1:3-11
3. News of Paul’s imprisonment and dedication: 1:12-26
4. Following Christ’s example is our duty: 1:27-2:18
5. Paul’s representatives and the need to treat them kindly: 2:19-30
6. Paul’s example of living a joyous life: 3:1-11
7. The Christian’s heavenly calling: 3:12-21
8. The need for Godly living: 4:1-9
9. The love offerings of the Philippians: 4:10-20
10. Closing to the book of Philippians: 4:21-23
TODAY’S TEXT:
Php 2:5-8 – “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.”
TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL:
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
Paul now encourages the Philippian believers to share in Christ’s attitude of humility and servanthood…
Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:
Christ was in the “form of God”. This does not mean Christ had the physical appearance of God. It is speaking more of Christ displaying God to man through His wisdom, grace, miracles, life, death, resurrection and glorification etc. Christ was constantly showing God to man through the many events of His life on earth.
However, Christ was not simply a man who displayed God throughout His lifetime on earth… He was also God Himself, coming to earth as a man. This is why, although Christ was on the earth as a man, He still did no injustice by claiming to be God Himself.
But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:
Although Christ was God Himself, He willingly humbled Himself. The humility of Christ is clearly shown to us as He:
1. “made himself of no reputation” – Christ, who retained His divinity while on earth, “emptied” himself of all His divine trappings and choose to not take His rightful place as Sovereign God over all. He did not come to the earth as Sovereign God but came as a baby born in a manger, who lived a simple life of servanthood on earth.
2. “took upon him the form of a servant” – Christ, who is King of Kings and Lord of Lords, choose to not exercise His ruling authority, but lived the life of a servant living to meeting the needs of others around Him.
Just like being in “the form of God” (vs 6) involved displaying God to man in His works, and lifestyle; so too, being in “the form of a servant” involved displaying His attitude of servanthood in all that He did. Everything Christ did during His life, was an act of servanthood to God and man. His life was filled with works that fulfilled His Father’s commands and met the needs of all mankind.
3. “and was made in the likeness of men” – Christ, as His first coming to the earth, appeared as a man, although He was God. His physical appearance was that of a man. His needs for sleep, food, oxygen etc was that of a man. When others saw Him both in appearance and lifestyle, they simply saw a man.
And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.”
Christ, who was God Himself, came to the earth in human form, living a life of humility and service. The greatest proof of these principles is found in the death of Christ:
1. Proof of Christ’s humanity – God cannot die, for Christ to be able to die on the cross He had to come as a man. When Christ died on the cross it was His human life that departed from Him, His Godly nature exists eternally with no end, unable to be touched by death.
2. Proof of Christ’s humble obedience – Christ’s death was an act of obedient service to His Father. His death was also an act of humility, love, grace and mercy as He made the ultimate sacrifice on the cross to meet all their spiritual needs. His people did not deserve for Him to die, on the contrary, they only deserved to be eternally punished for their sins. And yet, in spite of this, He gave His life for them. This is true humility… giving of ourselves to those who do not deserve our kindness.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION:
Christ’s humility and servanthood were on display consistently in every area of His life. Everything that He did was in submission to His Father’s will and for the benefit of His people. This is the attitude we are to share with Christ.
It is an attitude of desire to follow the will of our Lord, and in doing so, meeting the needs of those around us. This is why humility and servanthood go hand in hand. A humble spirit engenders acts of servanthood towards God and man. May we all share in this most wonderful attitude!
Questions, Comments, or Suggestions?
Email me at: rob.barkman@settledinheaven.org
Homepage… http://www.settledinheaven.org
Text Blog… http://www.settledinheaven.wordpress.com
Video Blog… http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven
Do We Selflessly Seek The Welfare of God’s People?
Php 2:3-4 – “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.”
For the SIH devotional on this subject:
Settled In Heaven Blog 