Forgiveness

What is forgiveness? Forgiveness means not to dwell on the sin that was forgiven to the offender. It is a promise not to raise the issue again to the offender, or to others or himself or herself. Even ‘brooding on the issue’ is a violation of the promise made in granting forgiveness to the offender.

A definition for forgiveness could be -- giving up my right to hurt you, for hurting me. It is impossible to live on this fallen planet without getting hurt, offended, misunderstood, lied to, and rejected. Learning how to respond properly is one of the basics of the Christian life.¹

The word “forgive” means to wipe the slate clean, to pardon, to cancel a debt. When we wrong someone, we seek his or her forgiveness in order for the relationship to be restored. It is important to remember that forgiveness is not granted because a person deserves to be forgiven. Instead, it is an act of love, mercy, and grace.²

Reconciliation is a complete change of relationships between persons; God and man; and man, and man and this involves three basic elements.

a.) Confessing our sins to God, and to any other offended party;

b.) Forgiveness by God and by the offended party;

c.) Establishing a new relationship between God and the offender; and the offender and the offended party.

Confession, forgiveness, and reconciliation are very much related and in reconciliation, the enmity and alienation are replaced by peace and fellowship.

God’s Mercy: “And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.” Jesus Christ taught His disciples the Lord’s Prayer for forgiveness, and we stand before God’s mercy and grace every day for the sins of commission and omission.

(Debt vs. Trespasses) Several Greek words are used to describe sin, and the Gospel of Matthew uses the word, ophelema, which is rendered ‘debt’ Matt 6:12; and paraptoma, which is rendered ‘trespass’ in Matt 6:14. God will forgive us only as much as we forgive those who have injured us, and in the Lord’s Prayer we ask God to be merciful and forgive our sins. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 Jn 1:9).  

Praying for forgiveness requires listening quietly in God’s presence so that He may reveal to us our own acts of disobedience, our resentments, and our unresolved issues in our hearts and even with our neighbors.  As Christians we inevitably continue to sin, but our lives need to be characterized by a reducing frequency of sin with an increasing sensitivity to sin.

When God forgives a sinner, He marks a new beginning, and the old has gone. He wanted that the matters which the repentance concerned must be cleared up, and bear fruit which is appropriate to true repentance. This leads to change in relationships, which leads to the abandonment of old ways (putting off) and the establishment of new ways (putting on).

In some difficult cases, for example if the offended party refuses to give forgiveness, then the Scriptures in Matthew 18, comes into effect. The first step is the repentant party approaches the person regarding the issue and if that fails, he takes one or two witnesses. Jesus Christ makes the forgiveness of the repentant brother very mandatory, (Lk. 17).

It is very understandable that the offended person is somewhat wary for a period especially when the offense is adultery, homosexuality, or incest. There may be a fear that the same transgression may be committed again. Forgiveness is not a shock treatment which instantly wipes away the hurtful memories of the recent past. The Biblical concept of forgiving and reconciling is a process and building a new relationship with the offender poses the following 2 questions.

a)  Has there been genuine repentance?

b) Has real forgiveness actually been granted? 

Very often the Biblical concept of forgiving and forgetting is misinterpreted; and the Scriptures speak of fruit appropriate to repentance. When one forgives the offender, forgetting is not possible immediately instead, the one, who forgives, remembers the offense, and looks for the fruit or the results that accompany the true repentance.

Let us look at the following illustration;

P -------à F₁ ---------àF₂ -------àF₃

P is the problem

F₁ is forgiveness

F₂ is fruit

F₃ is forgetting

When the fruit is fully discerned, then forgetting becomes possible slowly and it is a process, and the desire and the willingness of the forgiven offender to build a new relationship with the one who has forgiven becomes very evident.

While God in His providence, sometimes may wish to bring about the consequences of sin in the life of the offender, for His purposes; Ps. 99:8, the forgiver has no right to take the providence in to their hands. However, when the consequence of sin becomes evident in the life of the offender, God does not intend to make the forgiven sinner suffer. Christ suffered for the sinner, and neither man nor God may require further atonement.³

God reconciles us to Himself through Christ and counts our sins against us no more. “And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to Himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation” (2 Cori 5:18-19).

Websites:

1. Definition for Forgiveness ^1,2

www.allaboutgod.com › Forgiving Others - Learn More! - CachedSimilar

Definition for Forgiveness - Read a definition of forgiveness and thoughts about when to ... The Bible gives us much instruction when it comes to forgiveness. ...

►References:

1.The Matthew Henry Study Bible, ‘King James version’ The best of Matthew Henry’s Notes in a Handy One Volume Reference Bible, World Bible Publishers, Inc; 1994, Iowa Falls, U.S.A.

2. Beth Moore, David Seeking A Heart Like His, Life Way Christian resources, Nashville, Tennessee, 2010, pgs: 206-210.

3. Jay E. Adams, ‘Critical Stages of Biblical Counseling’ Finishing Well, Breaking Through, Getting Started, (New Jersey: Zondervan, 2002, p.6-7)

4. Jay E. Adams, ‘How to Help People Change’ The Four-step Biblical Process, (Grand rapids: Zondervan, 1986, p. 20-28)

5. John F. MacArthur, JR. Wayne A. Mack & The Master’s College Faculty, ‘Introduction To Biblical Counseling’, “A Basic Guide To The Principles And Practice Of Counseling”(Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers,1994, P. 76-77).

6. Jay E. Adams, ‘The Christian Counselor’s Manual, The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1973, p. 15-16, 21-23; 61-70³; 92-97).

7. Jay E. Adams, ‘Lectures on Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1978, p.192-203).

8.The Holy Bible, New King James version, Women of Destiny Bible, “Women Mentoring women Through the Scriptures” A Spirit Filled Life Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee, Copyright 1982. 

9. H. Michael Brewer, ‘Lessons from the Carpenter’ An Apprentice Learns from Jesus, Published by Water Brook Press, Colorado, 2006; pgs 50-59.

10. Jesus’ Teaching on Prayer, the Lord’s Prayer, ‘Know God’s Power and Forgiveness Through the Seven Petitions’ Rose Publishing, California.

11. Charles Price, Living Truth, Experiencing Christ in You, ‘Journey into the Heart of God’ Charles, Toronto. 

Into the Heart of God?

Prayer builds relationship with God and intensifies the communication with Him. Talking is the key ingredient in building any relationship and Jesus Christ while He was in the planet earth taught the Disciples how to talk to God. He taught them the Lord’s Prayer which is based on the attributes and characteristics of God.

Let us look at the Lord’s Prayer in Matthew 6:9-13;

“Our Father which art in Heaven,

Hallowed be Thy Name,

Thy Kingdome come.

Thy will be done in earth, as it is in Heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread.

And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:

For Thine is the Kingdom, and the power and the glory, for ever”: Amen.

The first part of the Lord’s Prayer centers on God, putting God in His rightful place, in our priorities. The second part focuses on our needs- body, soul and spirit and the needs of others. In the Lord’s Prayer Jesus targets all of human behavior and character and reminds us that we always need Him. God wants us to depend on Him moment by moment and experience the good things from Him which He wants to provide. It is an encouragement that we come to God, not as an unreconciled, avenging Judge, but as a loving gracious Father who understand and knows our needs.

God’s Fatherly love: “Our Father which art in heaven” God is compassionate, loving, and merciful, gives life, protects those who trust Him, and longs for a deep relationship with His children. Jesus Christ, God’s one and only Son, taught us the Lord’s Prayer and asked us to approach God as Father. “But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.” Jn 1:12-13.

God’s Holiness: “Hallowed be The Name” To hallow means to make holy, and “hallow” God’s Name means to honor and make it sacred. When we pray, we enter the presence of the ‘Living God’ with reverence, thanksgiving, worship and praise. Thanksgiving recognizes that everything we have belongs to God, our talents, gifts, possessions, jobs and our children. As children of our ‘Living God’ do we believe this? “Exalt the Lord our God, and worship at His holy hill: for the Lord our God is holy.” Psa 99:9. “The earth is the Lord’s, and the fullness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.” Psa 24:1.

God’s Sovereignty: “Thy Kingdom come” The Almighty God has supreme power and authority over all things in heaven and on earth, and when we acknowledge that we welcome His reign in our lives! The ministry of Jesus Christ in this earth was “to proclaim freedom for the prisoners, to recover sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, and to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor” Luk 4:18-19. His kingdom comes, and when Jesus reigns supreme, there will be no pain, sorrow, suffering, or evil again. “And in the days of these king, shall be the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever.” Dan 2:44.

God’s Authority: “Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.” On earth human free will results in selfishness, greed and all kinds of evil. When we pray this prayer, we are praying that all people submit to the will of God over their own desires, and faithfully love God and neighbors as themselves. “Teach me to do Thy will; for thou art my God: Thy spirit is good; lead me into the land of uprightness.” Psa 143:10. “And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed saying” O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless, not as I will, but as thou wilt.” Matt 26:39.

God’s Providence: “Give us this day our daily bread.” The Greek word for ‘bread’ not only represents food, but also every physical thing we need. When we ask God for our daily bread, it means asking God to provide for our material, physical, emotional, spiritual, volitional, and relational needs for that day. This could also include our daily needs of ministries, people, communities, leaders, family, friends and other personal needs and God commits Himself to provide for His children when we depend on His mercy. “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matt6:33. “And Jesus said to them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to Me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.” Jn 6:35.

God’s Mercy: “And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.” (Debt vs. Trespasses) Several Greek words are used to describe sin, and the Gospel of Matthew uses the word, ophelema, which is rendered ‘debt’ Matt 6:12; and paraptoma, which is rendered ‘trespass’ in Matt 6:14. God will forgive us only as much as we forgive those who have injured us, and in the Lord’s Prayer we ask God to be merciful and forgive our sins. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 Jn 1:9.

God’s Protection: “And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.” God provides us a good defense we need to protect ourselves against the weapons of Satan and that is by praying for protection, we prepare each day for battle against evil. “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.”1 Cori 10:13.

“When our Christian experience becomes dry, there’s very little praying going on.” – Charles Price.

Jesus Christ not only encourages that relationship of trust with the Father, but willingly died a horrible death to purchase the right of believers in Christ, to be called children of God. Jesus Christ made it clear that the church’s mission is to lead people to Himself, and he commissioned to all His disciples to proclaim that Jesus is King and Lord over all; Matt 28: 18-20. While we learn to trust in God’s Sovereignty, and His ability to do His good will for our lives, we learn to trust His commands to exercise the muscles of our wills in prayer. Because of God’s Providence, compared to rest of the people on earth we are wealthy Christians! It is very easy to forget that Jehovah Jireh is our Provider!

Praying for forgiveness requires listening quietly in God’s presence so that He may reveal to us our own acts of disobedience, our resentments, and our unresolved issues in our hearts and even with our neighbors. As Christians we inevitably continue to sin, but our lives need to be characterized by a reducing frequency of sin with an increasing sensitivity to sin. It is a great privilege for believers and we can trust our Father in heaven who has promised not to leave us unprotected from the enemy, but to protect, deliver and forgive. Jesus Christ taught us to use God’s Name in honorable ways and for purposes that deepen and endear our bonds to Him. The more we learn to talk with God, the more we learn to please Him and we touch His heart!

References:

1.The Matthew Henry Study Bible, ‘King James version’ The best of Matthew Henry’s Notes in a Handy One Volume Reference Bible, World Bible Publishers, Inc; 1994, Iowa Falls, U.S.A.

2. David Seeking A Heart Like His, ‘Beth Moore’ Life Way Christian resources, Nashville, Tennessee, 2010, pgs: 206-210.

3. Jay E. Adams, ‘Critical Stages of Biblical Counseling’ Finishing Well, Breaking Through, Getting Started, (New Jersey: Zondervan, 2002, p.6-7)

4. Jay E. Adams, ‘How to Help People Change’ The Four-step Biblical Process, (Grand rapids: Zondervan, 1986, p. 20-28)

5. John F. MacArthur, JR. Wayne A. Mack & The Master’s College Faculty, ‘Introduction To Biblical Counseling’, “A Basic Guide To The Principles And Practice Of Counseling”(Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers,1994, P. 76-77)

6. Jay E. Adams, ‘The Christian Counselor’s Manual, The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1973, p. 15-16, 21-23; 92-97)

7. Jay E. Adams, ‘Lectures on Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1978, p.192-203)

8.The Holy Bible, New King James version, Women of Destiny Bible, “Women Mentoring women Through the Scriptures” A Spirit Filled Life Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee, Copyright 1982.

9. H. Michael Brewer, ‘Lessons from the Carpenter’ An Apprentice Learns from Jesus, Published by Water Brook Press, Colorado, 2006; pgs 50-59.

10. Jesus’ Teaching on Prayer, the Lord’s Prayer, ‘Know God’s Power and Forgiveness Through the Seven Petitions’ Rose Publishing, California.

11. Living Truth, Experiencing Christ in You, ‘Journey into the Heart of God’ Charles Price, Toronto.

The Two Ways!

‘Blessed’ or ‘happy’ expresses a sense of joy and satisfaction in one’s circumstances or state of life. Very often it is the ultimate result of trusting God completely in all life situations, obeying His written Word; Ref: Psa: 34:8; 40:4. This also shows the faithfulness of those who trust in God fully, and not taking things into ones’ own hands, or going to another source for help. God (Yahweh) is the only source of help for those who trust in Him.

The Hebrew words:

The word for Psalms: ‘tehilim’ which means Praise.

Happy is ‘Blessed’; ‘Ashrey, an interjection frequent in Psalms, means ‘happy’; Psa 1:1. It is similar to ‘baruk’ which means ‘blessed’ and it is more often used in a secular term.

‘Torah’ is some times translated as ‘law’ and very often it is understood as ‘teaching’ or ‘instruction’.

‘Hgh’ is based on Josh 1:8; which means literally mumbling to one self; or closely related to concentrating on some thing in order to understand it well.

Book of Psalms are mainly ‘Lyrics’ and one can not but deeply be affected by the emotions, strengths, and petitions contained in the Psalm. Psalm 1 definitely talks about two ways of life: one leading to everlasting life; and the other one leading to everlasting death. This Psalm gives the revelation of God’s will for His people, and not a body of legislative material or a collection of judicial decisions often associated with the English word ‘law’. It brings out that God’s (Yahweh’s) instructions are a delight and not a burden to those who trust in Him. The image of the righteous (Ps 1; 3) as flourishing trees is a very common metaphor used through out Scriptures; Psa 92:12-14; Jer 17; 8. The tree bearing fruit is the extension of the metaphor, and is very much related to the individual giving spiritual fruit, and shows the spiritual status of the believer.

This Psalm talks about and focuses on the destiny of the two ways in verse 4. “The ungodly are not so, But are like the chaff which the wind drives away.” Psa 1:4. Chaff is in contrast to the fruit; but the fruit is the valuable product from the field whereas the ‘chaff’ is the useless byproduct which comes in threshing. The Word of God says that the wicked will be like the chaff, useless and will be carried away by the wind; and will be separated from the fruit which is useful and valuable.

“Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment; nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.” Psa 1:5. This verse definitely talks about the judgment. Some people argue that it is only the final judgment which is definite; but it is better to understand the judgment whether it is in this life or the life to come. It is very clear as sinners are not equated with the righteous they will be judged and removed from the scene.

“For the Lord knows the way of the righteous; but the way of the wicked shall perish.’ Psa1: 6. This verse shows the final summary of the ‘Two Ways’; The first way is the way of the righteous and God’s protection will be there and their way will be flourishing. The second way is for ruin and destruction and the wicked will follow that way and will be utterly destroyed.

Dear friends, it is a great blessedness to know and experience the love of Christ. Jesus’ death on the cross is the only the source of forgiveness of sin; Jn 3:16. “For this is what love of God is; to keep his commandments, now His commandments are not a burden, because whatever has been born of God conquers the world: our faith.”1 Jn 5:3. Love of God is not separate from keeping His commandments. God’s commands teach His people how to do what God accepts as pleasing; Rom12:1-2. Knowledge of God transforms the human will, making what was burden easy and light to carry; Matt 11:30.

Some have referred to the Psalms as Israel’s hymnbook; and more than one third of its collection contain prayers to God and were used in the context of Israel’s worship. My prayer as I write this would be as follows: ‘Lord I pray that whomever who reads this would delight in Your law and that they would meditate on it, pondering it day and night.’ Psa: 1:2.

References:

1.The Matthew Henry Study Bible, ‘King James version’ The best of Matthew Henry’s Notes in a Handy One Volume Reference Bible, World Bible Publishers, Inc; 1994, Iowa Falls, U.S.A.

2. David Seeking A Heart Like His, ‘Beth Moore’ Life Way Christian resources, Nashville, Tennessee, 2010, pgs: 149-157.

3. Jay E. Adams, ‘Critical Stages of Biblical Counseling’ Finishing Well, Breaking Through, Getting Started, (New Jersey: Zondervan, 2002, p.6-7)

4. Jay E. Adams, ‘How to Help People Change’ The Four-step Biblical Process, (Grand rapids: Zondervan, 1986, p. 20-28)

5. John F. MacArthur, JR. Wayne A. Mack & The Master’s College Faculty, ‘Introduction To Biblical Counseling’, “A Basic Guide To The Principles And Practice Of Counseling”(Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers,1994, P. 76-77)

6. Jay E. Adams, ‘The Christian Counselor’s Manual, The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1973, p. 15-16, 21-23; 92-97)

7. Jay E. Adams, ‘Lectures on Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1978, p.192-203)

8.The Holy Bible, New King James version, Women of Destiny Bible, “Women Mentoring women Through the Scriptures” A Spirit Filled Life Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee, Copyright 1982.

9. HCSB Study Bible, Holman Christian Standard Bible, ‘God’s Word for Life’ Nashville, Tennessee, 2010.

A Heart far Away from God?

Spring is a perfect time for Kings to march out to war, and the crops were growing and so men were not needed to work in the fields. David remained in Jerusalem and did not participate fully in some other battles; 2 Sam 10:7. The roof of the palace provides a good view to the King as Bathsheba was bathing. She was the daughter of Eliam one of David’s elite warriors, 2 Sam 23:34 and the wife of Uriah the Hittite, one of David’s faithful soldiers, 2 Sam 23; 39. There is also a possibility that she is the grand daughter of Ahithophel, who was David’s trusted counselor; 2 Sam 23:34. David slept with her 2 Sam 11:4; and the biblical writer placed the ultimate blame where it belonged and that is with the Israel’s King!

Hebrew word; ‘Kasah’ means “to cover, conceal, hide, to clothe … to forgive, to keep secret, to hide one self, wrap one self up.”

2 Samuel chapter 11 talks about how David committed adultery with Bathsheba and then manipulatively arranged Uriah’s death, in order to conceal his misbehavior. Let us observe carefully the progressive nature of sin in this story. David sent orders to Joab without revealing the reason he was summoning Uriah, 2 Sam 11:6. Israel’s King suggested a gentle time of relaxing to Uriah at his house, with a gift, where Bathsheba might arrange an intimate evening with her husband to make it appear that Uriah was the baby’s father, 2 Sam 11;8. David questioned Uriah about his refusal to go home in spite of his orders to him, yet being careful not to appear overly eager to make sure Uriah the Hittite went home; 2 Sam 11:10.

David did not stop here; he delayed Uriah’s return a few days while he contrived another plan; 2 Sam 11:12. David got Uriah drunk in an effort to get him home to Bathsheba, but Uriah did not go home, and David was getting very desperate to cover his misdeed; 2 Sam 11; 13. David sent an order for Uriah’s death to Joab, by Uriah’s own hand; 2 Sam 11:14. In the letter David wrote: “Put Uriah at the front of the fiercest fighting, then withdraw from him so that he is struck down and dies.”2 Sam 11:15. The scheme of David ends with Uriah the Hittites’ death in the battlefield; 2 Sam 11:17; but the finale of the story did not end here. However David did not repent of his sin and misdeed, and “So the Lord sent Nathan the prophet to David.”2 Sam 12:1a.

The Bible says, “But the thing David had done displeased the Lord.’ 2 Sam 11:27. David’s heart was further away from the Lord, which means it was characterized by selfishness and self-absorbency. We see David’s sin began in his thought life, and end up in the conception of an innocent child with another man’s wife. The news of Bathsheba’s pregnancy presented special problems for King David, because her husband Uriah had been fighting in the battlefield with the Ammonites and thus could not be the father of Bathsheba’s child. His heart went far away from the Lord and the evidence for this can be seen in how he reacted to Bathsheba’s pregnancy. Obviously David has quenched the Spirit of God to such a degree that he was able to resist the convicting power of God’s Spirit.

He sinned in thought, word and in deed. He was in the wrong place at the wrong time; failed to protect himself with a group of accountability partners; and was lonely. One has to be very careful about the God given responsibilities; and deliberately set up accountability figures around them, and avoid long isolation understanding the progressive nature of sin. He resisted many opportunities to repent of his sins; unmoved by Uriah’s integrity; tried to cover his own sins. Also, in his selfishness he involved a servant in his plans; invited Bathsheba to a season of guilt and grief; enticed Uriah to compromise his values; and involved Joab and killed Uriah the Hittite, the warrior who is a man of Integrity.

Intense selfishness accompanies a heart far away from the Lord, and we can measure this against the selflessness of Christ. David was a man after God’s own heart, and that is the caliber to which he has risen, and from that pinnacle he has fallen! Dear friends in Christ, we need not have to commit adultery for our hearts to move away from God; but what about any thing else in our lives which would make us self-absorbed in our selfishness? It could be the money, power, authority, pride, surfing the internet, friends, even ministry or anything else which takes our heart away from God and we may be worshipping it if unchecked! It is important for us to make sure whom we worship; self or God?

“Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the ages have come. Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.” 1 Cori 10” 11-12.

References:

1.The Matthew Henry Study Bible, ‘King James version’ The best of Matthew Henry’s Notes in a Handy One Volume Reference Bible, World Bible Publishers, Inc; 1994, Iowa Falls, U.S.A.

2. David Seeking A Heart Like His, ‘Beth Moore’ Life Way Christian resources, Nashville, Tennessee, 2010, pgs: 149-157.

3. Jay E. Adams, ‘Critical Stages of Biblical Counseling’ Finishing Well, Breaking Through, Getting Started, (New Jersey: Zondervan, 2002, p.6-7)

4. Jay E. Adams, ‘How to Help People Change’ The Four-step Biblical Process, (Grand rapids: Zondervan, 1986, p. 20-28)

5. John F. MacArthur, JR. Wayne A. Mack & The Master’s College Faculty, ‘Introduction To Biblical Counseling’, “A Basic Guide To The Principles And Practice Of Counseling”(Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers,1994, P. 76-77)

6. Jay E. Adams, ‘The Christian Counselor’s Manual, The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1973, p. 15-16, 21-23; 92-97)

7. Jay E. Adams, ‘Lectures on Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1978, p.192-203)

8.The Holy Bible, New King James version, Women of Destiny Bible, “Women Mentoring women Through the Scriptures” A Spirit Filled Life Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee, Copyright 1982.

9. HCSB Study Bible, Holman Christian Standard Bible, ‘God’s Word for Life’ Nashville, Tennessee, 2010.

My Times are in His Hand

“But as for me, I trust in You, O Lord; I say, “You are my God.” My times are in Your hand; Deliver me from the hand of my enemies, and from those who persecute me.” Psa: 31: 14-15.

Conflicts seem to be the package of King David’s life and it seemed they would never end. It seemed to sap his energy and caused him to rely on another’s strength.

2 Samuel 22:1-51, talks about the testimony of King David in Lyrics with a great passion.

King David presents these words to the Lord, because God has delivered him from the hand of his enemies in His time; from Absalom his own son, King Saul and also delivered him from the pit of despair. The pit of despair arose not only because of his enemies outside in his court and the battlefield but also of the enemy in his own heart. David’s enemies were too strong for him but not too strong for the Lord.

Any Christian who is attempting to live a life of self-sufficiency may not be able to relate to having a close personal relationship with God. Claiming God personally is the most precious right of any believer because of our Risen Savior Jesus Christ and blessed Calvary.

The circumstances one face may be completely different. May be the enemy has succeeded in pushing you into a corner, or being held in a small place with little hope of escape; and in all this one can be strengthened by God’s Word. “I will be glad and rejoice in Your mercy, for You have considered my trouble; You have known my soul in adversities; and have not shut me up into the hand of the enemy; You have set my feet in a wide place.” Psa 31: 7-8.

The One who delivered David from his enemies was the object of his deepest emotions, and he shared an authentic relationship with the living God. David deeply loved God and he is the man after God’s own heart because of his deep desire to please God and love Him.

Ecclesiastes 3: 1-8; talks about Times and seasons and to realize God’s promises in our lives we should set ourselves to God’s beat. When we talk about His beat, it is His rhythm, sequence, order, structure and timings of our lives. If we miss His timing by moving too fast or too slow we will fall out of step, and that will affect everything else in our lives. Can we say that everything in our lives must be in God’s predetermined time so that we can be effective and fruitful?

For every problem and situation in our lives there is a set time for its answer and God is very much involved in a believer’s situation. We may have to wait for God and step back because what He is going to do in our lives is a matter of timing and it is His timing. As we are anxiously asking God for an answer right now, He is thinking beyond our anxious heart about our requests or His purpose may be to fine-tune us through adversity. Out of our brokenness is coming something valuable – a man or a woman after His own heart!

With references to 2 Samuel 22 and Psalm 18, can we say; God is our strength when we are weak; He is our Rock when we are on a slippery slope; He is our Deliverer when we are fenced and trapped by our enemies; He is our strong Fortress when we are crumbling down to thousand pieces; He is our Refuge when our enemies chases us and conflicts seem to be part of our package of our life; He is our only shield when I am exposed to our enemies; and He is our Lord, our God when life spins out of control in all directions?

We all can say with one accord that focusing on God alone is hard when life issues spins on a down ward spiral and spins out of control. King David’s life continuously challenges each one of us about our walk with God. Are we becoming committed to God more and more? “For I have kept the ways of the Lord; and have not wickedly departed from my God?” 2 Sam 22; 22. 2 Samuel 22 shows the history of King David with God, and he has allowed God to reveal himself in many experiences of life.

Do we actively build a history with God? Have we done lots of living together with God ever since our salvation? Can we remember the various times and seasons we have experienced with the Living God as our Father? Can we genuinely say that our ‘Times are in His hand’? If we believe can we say, “Lord, teach me the timing and sequence You have set for my life so that I may dance to Your beat for me?”

References:

1.The Matthew Henry Study Bible, ‘King James version’ The best of Matthew Henry’s Notes in a Handy One Volume Reference Bible, World Bible Publishers, Inc; 1994, Iowa Falls, U.S.A.

2. David Seeking A Heart Like His, ‘Beth Moore’ Life Way Christian resources, Nashville, Tennessee, 2010, pgs: 206-210.

3. Jay E. Adams, ‘Critical Stages of Biblical Counseling’ Finishing Well, Breaking Through, Getting Started, (New Jersey: Zondervan, 2002, p.6-7)

4. Jay E. Adams, ‘How to Help People Change’ The Four-step Biblical Process, (Grand rapids: Zondervan, 1986, p. 20-28)

5. John F. MacArthur, JR. Wayne A. Mack & The Master’s College Faculty, ‘Introduction To Biblical Counseling’, “A Basic Guide To The Principles And Practice Of Counseling”(Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers,1994, P. 76-77)

6. Jay E. Adams, ‘The Christian Counselor’s Manual, The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1973, p. 15-16, 21-23; 92-97)

7. Jay E. Adams, ‘Lectures on Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1978, p.192-203)

8.The Holy Bible, New King James version, Women of Destiny Bible, “Women Mentoring women Through the Scriptures” A Spirit Filled Life Bible, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, Tennessee, Copyright 1982.

“Three Strand Friendship”

The Biblical figures David and Jonathan were ‘uncommon friends’ and were knit together by something more powerful than circumstances and situations. They spoke their minds without fear and Jonathan was willing to die for him and established his love to David by a generous gift. “Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as his soul. And Jonathan stripped himself of the robe that was upon him, and gave it to David, and his garments, even to his sword, and to his bow, and to his girdle.”1 Sam 18:3-4. This was certainly a great instance of the power of God’s grace in David that he was able to get respect and honor on a sudden.

Hebrew word ‘qashar’ means ‘knit’; knit is said in King James Version as ‘became one’. “And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking unto Saul, that the soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul.’ 1 Sam 18:1. Jonathan conceived an extraordinary kindness and affection for him, and God so ordering that David’s way might be the clearer and God honoring for future Kingly court’s services.

1 Sam 20: 1-4; is a narration and example of their priceless expressions of deep friendship. The ‘uncommon friends’ spoke their hearts and from the conversation above we can understand that Jonathan didn’t believe that his father King Saul was really trying to take David’s life, but he acknowledged that David’s feelings were genuine and authentic by saying, “Then said Jonathan unto David, Whatsoever thy soul desireth, I will even do it for thee.”1 Sam 20; 4. David appeals to Jonathan himself concerning his innocence and Saul’s desire to take David’s life. Jonathan as a dutiful son tried to cover his father’s shame as far as it was consistent with justice and fidelity to David. Jonathan did not agree immediately with David, but he realized that David needed his help and support at this point instead of his doubt. Jonathan’s willingness to listen and letting go of possible potential insults are his great strength and not his weakness. The bonds that strengthened Jonathan and David are much deeper than the width of their differences.

The seed of jealousy sown in the heart of Saul began to grow and fear, anger, bitterness fueled the jealousy which grew out of control; 1 Sam 20:30-33. Saul rages like a lion disappointed of his prey and calls Jonathan his son, a traitor, bastard and a fool and tried to kill him too. Saul failed to acknowledge his rage and jealousy as evil. The conclusion we derive from the above is that in any situation without God’s intervention, one can offer only a small bandage to some one hemorrhaging from uncontrolled emotions. The best recourse when negative emotions begin to control is to fall before the throne of grace and seek God, taking solace that Christ knows how it feels to be tempted; Heb 2:18; 4;15.

Again in1 Sam 20: 25-42; Jonathan tried to protect David from his father’s rage and anger and finally they parted. Jonathan went out into the field and to the place appointed within sight of which he knew David hid, and sent his foot boy to fetch the arrows, which he would shoot at random. Jonathan gave David the fatal signal by shooting an arrow beyond the lad and finally had a personal conversation with David after he had helped him to flee for life.

Jonathan and David were vulnerable with each other and yet retained their dignity and their friendship was a safe place to show feelings and trust. They had separate lives but inseparable bonds and their lives complemented each other. The ‘uncommon friends’ from two different families with different family values were unafraid to share their hearts with one another. “And as soon as the lad was gone, David arose out of a place toward the South, and fell on his face towards the ground, and bowed himself three times: and they kissed one another, and wept one with another, until David exceeded.”1 Sam 20:41.

“And Jonathan said to David, ‘ Go in peace, for as much as we have sworn both of us in the name of the Lord, saying, The Lord be between me and thee, and between my seed and thy seed for ever’. And he arose and departed: and Jonathan went into the city;”

1 Sam 20: 42. Jonathan and David took leave of each other with the greatest affection imaginable, with kisses and lots of tears! The separation of two faithful friends is extremely grievous to both of them. In this case for David it was very deplorable when Jonathan returned to his family and friends and to the comfort of his home, while David was out of his comfort Zone, and even out of God’s Sanctuary!

What do we learn here? If an enemy find a man alone, he is likely to prevail against him because with his own strength he may not make it. If he has a friend who would stand by him to fight against the enemy he may prevail. “And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken” Ecc 4:12. Two together are tied to God, and the three fold cord will not be broken because they are closely joined in holy love and fellowship. Christ will come in His Spirit and join with them, as He joined with the two Disciples going to Emmaus, and then there is a threefold cord. Also, it is very encouraging to know that the Spirit of God is more powerful than the spirit of wickedness and love is more powerful than jealousy. “Ye, are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.”1 Jn 4:4. The best laid plans of Kings and Queens crumble under the mighty Spirit of God. Greek word, ‘dunamis’; ‘dynamite’ the power, that is God’s power can burst and tear the walls of rage and jealousy within us.

The Spirit of God some times bridges people together to fulfill God’s purposes in the lives of His children. I am pretty sure that God would have never chosen David as the future King of Israel, if He had not plan to sustain him in his life and ultimately deliver him safely to his throne. Both of them were brought together by ‘spiritual ties’ and they had ‘sworn friendship with each other in the name of the Lord’; 1 Sam 20:42. Their friendship was a bond of three Jonathan, David and God. Jonathan was an important part of God’s whole Divine plan, who risked his own life in keeping the covenant with David and this is a beautiful story of ‘uncommon friends’ knitted by God’s Spirit, which became their common bond!

References:

1.The Matthew Henry Study Bible, ‘King James version’ The best of Matthew Henry’s Notes in a Handy One Volume Reference Bible, World Bible Publishers, Inc; 1994, Iowa Falls, U.S.A.

2. David Seeking A Heart Like His, ‘Beth Moore’ Life Way Christian resources, Nashville, Tennessee, 2010, pgs: 44-50.

3. Jay E. Adams, ‘Critical Stages of Biblical Counseling’ Finishing Well, Breaking Through, Getting Started, (New Jersey: Zondervan, 2002, p.6-7)

4. Jay E. Adams, ‘How to Help People Change’ The Four-step Biblical Process, (Grand rapids: Zondervan, 1986, p. 20-28)

5. John F. MacArthur, JR. Wayne A. Mack & The Master’s College Faculty, ‘Introduction To Biblical Counseling’, “A Basic Guide To The Principles And Practice Of Counseling”(Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers,1994, P. 76-77)

6. Jay E. Adams, ‘The Christian Counselor’s Manual, The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1973, p. 15-16, 21-23; 92-97)

7. Jay E. Adams, ‘Lectures on Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1978, p.192-203)

The Folly of the New Age!

The ‘Wiles of Satan’; wiles mean ‘ingenious trap’ or ‘snare’. The Bible portrays Satan as a master deceiver and a counterfeiter of truth and comes as ‘an angel of light’. “For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light”2 Cori 11:13-14. Hypocrisy is a thing not to be much wondered because in this world Satan has great influence on the minds of many, who rules in the hearts of the children of disobedience. He does anything in order to promote his kingdom of darkness, and his ministers and instruments do the very same. “Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers are also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.” 2 Cori 11:15. The story will be unfolded at the end confirming them as deceitful workers, and their work will end in ruin and destruction.

Very often, in today’s context the way Satan influences the minds of people are through New Age. Few people any more are not affected by New Age spirituality, and its influence is partly accelerated by internet, increased communication technology and its influence is found in all well established world systems, religion, business, education, medicine, holistic healing and alternate health , self-helps and not to forget arts and media. The sad thing about this is that these experiences seem so real and convincing and very often even the elect fall a prey to it. Does this sound ‘demonic’ or something not right? I am sure that those who do not believe God’s Word, and some may even believe but do not want to live by it, may say ‘no, there is something godly about the whole thing’.

The hurt one experience is not necessarily a bodily hurt, but a spiritual hurt. This is not talking about the persecution, but a secret poisoning and infection in their souls, which should rob them of their purity and afterwards their peace. Heresy is a poison in their soul, working slowly and secretly, but will be bitterness in the end. So many new translations in Bible, in today’s society do not help the above difficult ‘ingenious trap’ either. I am grieving as I write about an incident which happened to a friend of mine who is a Bible Scholar recently. She felt strongly that deception was creeping in through the multiple Bible versions now on display, was admonished by her Spiritual leader in her church, who even called her "satan to the church."

For the above deception to be very effective and influential ‘Satan’ has to come as ‘an angel of light’ and we have to know his claims and statements. Satan said, “I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the Most High.” Isa 14:14. He did not say that he will be the Most High, but he would be like the Most High. The same deception which occurred in the Garden of Eden “And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die; For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil” Gen 3:4-5, is happening today. It is the subtlety of Satan to blemish the reputation of the Divine Law as uncertain or unreasonable, and so to draw people to sin. The New Age Movement as a whole fits the above description and the alluring, that looks and feels like valid is the enemy’s strategy to move towards the kingdom of darkness in a slow and steady process.

The enemy denies that there was any danger in it, insisting, that it might be the transgressing of a precept, but not the incurring of a great penalty; “ye shall not surely die” Gen 3;4b. The enemy teaches men to doubt first and then to deny God’s Word, the Truth. He makes them skeptics first, and then on a sliding scale, on a slippery slope he makes them Atheists. King Saul is another prime example in the Old Testament who ignored God’s Word totally and went to mediums; “So Saul died for his transgression which he committed against the Lord, even against the Word of the Lord, which he kept not, and also for asking counsel of the one that had the familiar spirit, to enquire of it; and enquired not of the Lord: therefore he slew him, and turned the kingdom unto David the son of Jesse” 1 Croni 10:13-14.

When Christ comes with power into the soul, He begins to conquer these enemies, and He goes on conquering in the progressive work of sanctification till He has gained us a complete victory. Some how for those who fall a prey to this New Age influence, the power of the Cross, and the blood of Jesus Christ shed on the Cross 2000 years ago because of God’s dying love for this sinful world does not seem to be enough!

The reason that the New Age is wrong is simply because it takes the glory, devotion, trust and worship from the One who created us and it was given to man and the rebellious spirits who deceives men into self-glorification. Glory belongs to God alone who is wise and who gave His Son Jesus Christ for the world, and gave His Holy Spirit abundantly to His children. Every believer who has Christ’s Spirit abiding in them has a special royal privilege and calling to challenge the validity of the New Age message that ‘we are gods’!

References:

1. Warren B. Smith, “ A Wonderful Deception” The Further new Age Implications of the Emerging/ Purpose Driven Movement, Lighthouse Trails Publishing, Eureka, Montana, 2009; Pgs: 139-161.

2. The Shack, William P. Young; Amazon.ca.

3. Ray Yungen, “A Time of Departing” How Ancient Mystical Practices are uniting Christians with the World’s Religions, Lighthouse Trails Publishing, Eureka, Montana, U.S.A, 2002; pgs: 91-110.

4. The Matthew Henry Study Bible, ‘King James version’ The best of Matthew Henry’s Notes in a Handy One Volume Reference Bible, World Bible Publishers, Inc; 1994, Iowa Falls, U.S.A.

5. Ray Yungen, “For Many Shall Come in My Name” How the “Ancient Wisdom” is drawing millions of people into mystical experiences and preparing the world for the end of the age; 2^nd edition 2007, 3^rd printing 2008.

Websites:

1. Do not be deceived about the Restrainer - Last Days Mystery

Don't let anyone deceive you in any way, for that day will not come until the .... to deceive even the elect--if that were possible” (Matthew 24:24). ...
www.lastdaysmystery.info/restrainer.htm - Cached -

2 .Deceive Even the Elect by Dene McGriff

DECEIVE EVEN THE ELECT. Matthew 24:24b. By. Dene McGriff. The Bible tells us thatin the “last days” Christian will deliver up Christian, thinking they are ...
www.the-tribulation-network.com/.../deceive_even_the_elect.htm - Cached - Similar

3. Recognizing Deception and Apostasy Chapter 15 - Can Christians be ...

Do we think the great deception of the last days will be obvious? The Bible ...
www.the-tribulation-network.com/.../ch15_can_christians_be_deceived.htm -Cached - Similar

Show more results from the-tribulation-network.com

4. The Shack; The protagonist of author William P. Young's novel meets God in person. Features author's personal story, blog, online ordering, forum, and news.

The Missy Project - Get the latest news about The Shack - The Shack Interactive

www.theshackbook.com/ -

5. Oprah and her New Age mystics arise for end time deception

18 Apr 2008 ... Oprah and her New Age mystics arise for the great end time deception.
www.thepropheticyears.com/.../oprah-and-her-new-age-mystics-arise-for-end-time-deception.html

Other References:

1.John F. MacArthur, JR. Wayne A. Mack & The Master’s College Faculty, ‘Introduction To Biblical Counseling’, “A Basic Guide To The Principles And Practice Of Counseling”(Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers,1994, P. 76-77)

2. Jay E. Adams, ‘The Christian Counselor’s Manual, The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1973, p. 15-16, 21-23; 92-97)

3. Jay E. Adams, ‘Lectures on Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1978, p.192-203)

4. Lewis Sperry Chafer, ‘Systematic Theology’ Volume One, Abridged edition, John F. Walvoord, Editor, Donald K. Campbell, Roy B. Zuck, Consulting Editors, (Indiana: BMH Books, 1988, p. 94-95)

5. Wim Malgo, ‘Biblical Counseling’ From Twenty- Five Years of the International Ministry by Wim Malgo, (Columbia: The Mid Night Call, 1979, p.9-12; 20-21)

6. Gary L. Almy, M.D., ‘How Christian is Christian Counseling?’ The Dangerous Secular Influences That Keep Us From Caring For Souls, (Illinois: Crossway Books, Good News Publishers, 2000, p. 56-63)

7. J. I. Packer, Author of Knowing God, ‘Concise Theology’ A Guide To Historic Christian Beliefs, (Illinois: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc, 1993, p. 3-22)

8. Jay E. Adams, ‘Critical Stages of Biblical Counseling’ Finishing Well, Breaking Through, Getting Started, (New Jersey: Zondervan, 2002, p.6-7)

9. Jay E. Adams, ‘How to Help People Change’ The Four-step Biblical Process, (Grand rapids: Zondervan, 1986, p. 20-28)

10. David G. Benner & Peter C. Hill, ‘Baker Encyclopaedia of Psychology & Counseling’ Second Edition, (Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 1985, 1999, p.568-569)