For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. (Romans 14:17 ESV) Over the last three weeks we’ve looked at these three eternal elements, so identified because they are not limited to this space-time continuum. The righteousness of God imputed to us by faith and the satisfaction of His holiness in the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus, His Christ. The peace of God, in which we live because of His supreme authority and right to rule. And, the Joy of God, which sustains us and infuses His and our everlasting life. When we begin to realize that heaven came down,…

After Ezra had read the Law of Moses, the word of God, to the people who had returned to Jerusalem, he and Nehamiah said to them, “And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” (Nehemiah 8) The people had been in exile under pagan rule because they had disobeyed God, and it is understandable that they should be grieved in their hearts at the realization of the part they had played in their own captivity. Yet, the heart of God for redemption was declared to them and a way of peaceful, righteous living opened in revelation to them. The joy of the Lord was indeed their…

There is peace which surpasses understanding. (Philippians 4:7) When your eyes and ears are proclaiming chaos, the peace of God seems to defy reason. It is not a human emotion. Born of God, acknowledged by the Spirit of God within, real peace is the result of His authority and governance. He has authority over darkness and wicked schemes, and His people thrive under His righteous rule. Looking back at the verse in Philippians, see it in context with the verses preceding: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.  Let your reasonableness (or gentleness) be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in…

This weekly offering has become a sacred rhythm of my life. Like keeping a travel journal or picture album re-marking the milestones of heart beats and soul rescues. As far as I can tell, it has not resulted in any far-reaching influence, and that is fine, since it remains a simple act of obedience. Father planted the idea and encouraged the machinations, and I told Him I would. Now I find that it is an elemental part of my relationship with Him, a sabbath expression of faith. I say “sabbath” because it is unique and set apart and only encountered every seventh day. I say “expression of faith” because it…