JULY 2015
CHANGES &
The Unchanging
In this issue
6
What are the Keys to Answered Prayer?
8 3
What Lasts Forever? Only Two Things charles r. swindoll
6 Three Simple Ways to Deal with Change robyn roste
8
11
About Time phil callaway
11 30 Days to Making Your Life Count steve johnson 15 Beyond the Broadcast: What about Women in the Church?
Insights is published by Insight for Living Canada, the Bible-teaching ministry of Charles (Chuck) R. Swindoll. Chuck is the senior pastor-teacher of Stonebriar Community Church in Texas. His international radio program Insight for Living has aired for more than 35 years. We hope this publication will instruct, inspire, and encourage you in your walk with Christ. Copyright Š 2015 Insight for Living Canada. All rights reserved. No portion of this monthly publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from the publisher. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture passages are taken from the NLT. Unless otherwise noted, photography and illustration by Laura Vanderwel. IFLC is an autonomous ministry and cover photo Š shutterstock.com certified member of the Canadian Council of Christian Charities. Printed in Canada.
by charles r. swindoll
D
“ THE CRITICAL ISSUE—
your confidence in the Bible —IS DIRECTLY RELATED TO YOUR CONFIDENCE IN ITS INSPIRATION.”
o you realize there are only two eternal things on earth today? Only two: people and God’s Word. Everything else will ultimately be burned up—everything else. Kind of sets your priorities straight, doesn’t it? The stuff we place on the shelf, the things we put frames around, the trophies and whatnots we dust and shine and love to display, the things we’re so proud of—it’s all headed for the final bonfire (2 Peter 3:7, 10–12). But not God’s Book! Peter reminds us that the truth “endures forever” (1 Peter 1:25). Grass will grow and then it will wither; flowers will bloom and then they will die. But God’s written message, the truth, will abide forever. All His promises will be fulfilled. His redemptive truth cannot be annulled or changed. He will accomplish what His powerful Word proclaims, and He will achieve the purpose for which His Word was sent (Isaiah 55:10–11). His Word will endure! But wait. Doesn’t all this talk about the Bible lead to an important question? The question goes like this: How can anyone get so excited about something that was written by men? We have no problem with the Giver of truth. He gave it…but wasn’t the truth corrupted when He relayed it to earth through the hands and minds of sinful men?
God’s Word Is Inspired This is the perfect moment for you to become acquainted with three doctrinal terms: revelation, inspiration, and illumination. • Revelation occurred when God gave His truth • Inspiration occurred when the writers of Scripture received and recorded His truth • Illumination occurs today when we understand and apply His truth The critical issue—your confidence in the Bible—is directly related to your confidence in its inspiration. How then can we be sure that God’s Word is free from error or corruption, is absolutely true, and therefore, is deserving of our complete trust? Paul provides great help in answering this question: All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16–17) Second Peter 1:21 gives us further insight: “For no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will, but men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God.” The English phrase moved by is translated from an ancient Greek nautical term (phero) describing ships at sea. When a ship is at the mercy of the winds, waves, and currents of the sea, it is “moved by” a power apart from its own. That’s the word used here. The writers of Scripture raised, as it were, their sails, the Holy Spirit filled them, and they were “moved by” His desires.
Our Conclusion Is This In the Bible we have the preservation of a completely dependable, authoritative, inspired text. The question each of us must ask ourselves is this: Can I rely on it, especially when I go through those chaotic experiences in life? My answer, and I pray it is your answer, is absolutely and unreservedly YES! The wonderful thing about relying on God’s Book is that it gives you stability. It gives you that deep sense of purpose and meaning. No other counsel will get you through the long haul. No other truth will help you stand firm in the storms of doubt and uncertainty. No other reality will give you strength for each day and deep hope for tomorrow. No other instruction has the power to give new meaning to your life. Our Commitment to God’s Word As I said at the beginning of this article, only two things last forever: God’s Word and people. That’s why for 35 years at Insight for Living Ministries we have maintained our commitment to proclaim God’s Word to people. That’s why we are trusting God for the fulfilment of the Great Commission by making a way for us to minister to all 195 countries of the world—through the airwaves, the Internet, biblical resources, and training others to study and how to teach the Word of God! Only two things last forever—and I’m committed to both. How about you? Charles R. Swindoll serves as the senior pastor-teacher of Stonebriar Community Church in Frisco, Texas.
by robyn roste
F
aced with overwhelming decisions to make in an uncertain economy, young adults are forced to deal with stress and change like no other age group. First-time homebuyer. University graduate. New parent. These are labels attributed to young Canadians, who are transitioning from one stage of life to another. They are hopeful, proud words, indicating approval from older generations. However, other labels like divorced, downsized, and in debt are perhaps more accurate descriptions of the world 20-something's are discovering. The shock is enough to send these optimistic fresh faces back to the stability and structure of university. Or back to their parents' basement suites. Change is inevitable—and it can’t be controlled. How you choose to deal with change will determine your success in life.
Here are three ways to approach change at any age.
ATTITUDE
When transitioning from one stage of life to another, or when sudden change hits, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and alone. This is not the truth. Often an attitude adjustment will help you see life not as something to be endured but something to be lived. Caleb's model in Numbers 13 and 14 is a great example to follow. Twelve scouts were sent to explore Canaan, also known as the Promised Land. Upon their return, the spies reported although the land was magnificent, it was protected by massive, fortified cities and more than seven nationalities of sworn enemies who were settled throughout the country. Giving in to fear, the spies spread discouragement throughout the camp, saying the Israelites didn't stand a chance—the people were so
huge the Israelites were like grasshoppers in comparison (Numbers 13:33). Of the spies, only Caleb chose to rest in God's assurance—that this was the land promised to the Israelites. Caleb said, “Let's go at once to take the land…We can certainly conquer it!” (Numbers 13:30). Although the task was overwhelming and seemed impossible, Caleb chose to believe God was bigger than giants, was stronger than fortified cities, and would keep His promises.
PRAYER
Trials will certainly come. But just as certain, God will be with you. Once the worst has passed, you are left with a choice: mind over matter or vice versa? Hebrews 13:5 repeats the promise Moses gave to Israel when Joshua was appointed their leader. Moses said Joshua would be the one to take them into the Promised Land, where they would conquer their enemies. “Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid of them! The Lord your God will neither fail you nor forsake you,” (Deuteronomy 31:6). Trying to deal with life changes solo is wearing and can leave you feeling isolated and alone in your situation. But this is simply not true; you are never alone (John 16:32). Commit your problems, fears, and situations to the Lord and trust Him to give you what you need.
REACH OUT
Another way to deal with life change is by accessing the social networks you're already connected with. Social networks are a vital part of a young adult's online experience. However, they exist not only in the virtual world—neighbours, hobby groups and religious organizations are also valuable resources.
In 2008, Statistics Canada released a survey on change.1 It found 57 per cent of Canadian adults aged 20-29 experienced a major life change. Overall, these changes were seen as a positive experience and respondents said they used many parts of their social networks to deal with the change.
“Trying to deal with life changes solo is wearing and can leave you feeling isolated and alone in your situation.” Young adults typically access several networks when dealing with change finding they offer support, guidance, advice, and perspective. However, 47 per cent of young adults who are building careers and/or families prefer to use the Internet as a primary resource, turning to other people second. As for external resources, these same people said they're less likely to use neighbours or religious organizations than government resources while going through a transition. The report said the most frequent types of transition were financial, employment, health, parenting, child care, and caring for the sick or disabled. These statistics separate young adults from older generations, who are more likely to seek out the opposite resources when going through life changes. Although the way we reach out has shifted, young adults still rely on the help of others when dealing with change. The more we can be aware of how they are reaching out the better we can be in a position to support them in their time of need. Robyn Roste is the Media and Marketing manager at Insight for Living Canada.
1. Statistics Canada, “Social networks help Canadians deal with change.” Feb. 2009, 4 June 2015 <http://www.statcan.gc.ca/ pub/11-008-x/2009002/article/10891-eng.htm>.
by phil callaway
I
have officially reached middle age. How do I know? My children and my clothes are the same age. The thing about The Middle Ages is that if you have any brains left at all, you start to realize you’re running short on time to do things you vowed you’d do when you were 24. And so, one sunny Saturday, you find yourself behind a 16,000 horsepower ski boat being steered by a former high school friend named Bubba, trying to avoid fishing boats and beads of water that smack you in the eyes like buckshot. “What in the world am I doing?” You’re screaming, and Bubba thinks you want him to speed up. Every few weeks I get together with five other middle-aged guys for something we call the Circle of Six. It’s an eating group, really, though we founded it with grander plans. The group has been growing (pun intended) for a dozen years now, thanks to some incredible cheesecake of our own making, and lately I noticed that some of us are engaging in activities we wouldn’t have dreamed of back when we had our minds. For instance, one of the guys bought a high-powered motorcycle, then sold it when he came within a whisker of crashing. Another took up hang-gliding and limped to our meeting a few weeks ago, holding his lower back and making sounds like he was birthing triplets. Sitting around the fire, we talked of things we intended to do when we were younger but haven’t because we’ve been
“I guess we spend our early years wishing time would hurry up, our middle years trying to find more of it, and our latter years wondering where in the world it went.” held back by time. Or loving wives. Or insurance agents. “I’d like to cycle across the country,” said one. Everyone nodded. “Garden with my wife,” said another. Everyone gasped. One even confessed that he’d like to learn the ukulele and give concerts. I won’t tell you who it was, but we found this funny too. Then came stories of parents who had grand plans for an adventuresome retirement, who salted away money for travel only to discover that they’d run out of health once they got there; they’d run out of time. I guess we spend our early years wishing time would hurry up, our middle years trying to find more of it, and our latter years wondering where in the world it went. Time is one versatile guy. It flies. It heals wounds. Time will tell. Time marches on. Time runs out. Everywhere in the Western World are reminders of time. We have clocks on our wrists and our cell phones, our stereos and dashboards, on street signs and buildings. We dangle clocks around our necks,
in our pockets, and in every room of the house. One day archaeologists will dig up our stuff and say, “Hey, they must have worshipped these things. Stand back, this one’s still ticking.” To avoid the avalanche of time, middle-agers: • Buy juicers • Yogacize • Nip • Tuck • Wear spandex • Medicate • Diet • Visit 4.5 million “anti-aging” websites • Try another diet, one that “really works” We are constantly trying to make up for lost time. We rush about as if we’re going to find it somewhere, hoping all the while that time is on our side. We get so stressed out we start drinking Maalox like it’s gravy. We wonder, what would it be like to slow down? And if we slow down, will we have a nervous breakdown? “Teach us to number our days, so that we may be wise,” wrote the psalmist. And if we number them, we just may find that we don’t have enough time left for petty stuff like discussing someone else’s failures. We won’t have time to whine and
complain that the previous generation got it wrong and the next generation doesn’t get it at all. We won’t have time for things that are really ugly and disgusting, including much of what’s on tabloids and television. We won’t have time to sit around comparing what can’t be taken to the next world. Things like bank accounts, titles, and temporary achievements. If we find those matches and reignite that fire in our souls, we will discover that time is precious; that we should spend it brightening someone’s day, helping those less privileged, loving the forgotten, and gazing into the night sky. After all, no matter our age, we have less time than we think. Yesterday is a memory, tomorrow is an assumption, and this moment that we say we have…just passed. As a Christian, I believe we are stewards of whatever God gives us, including the days we have left. Because of Christ we are promised the riches of eternity where time will be extinct, but for now we are allowed the riches of today. As for me, I’d like to spend my remaining days spreading grace and joy around. Who knows? I might even sign up for those ukulele lessons, after all. Phil Callaway is the editor of Servant magazine.
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TO MAKING YOUR LIFE COUNT This article is designed to create a better understanding of Psalm 90. For the next 30 days read the questions and allow them to spark personal reflection and life change.
ver wonder how, with all the transitions of life, you can feel significant and have your life count for something? Moses wrote Psalm 90 as he and the Israelites wandered in the wilderness waiting for the rebellious older generation to die. For that generation their purpose for leaving Egypt and hope of settling in the new land was gone. In the midst of this wilderness experience Moses shares how we can make our lives count.
DAY 1
Read Psalm 90. Have you ever had a wilderness experience where hope and purpose vanished and which caused you to evaluate your life? Did it make a difference in the way you lived?
DAY 2
As a believer God is your true home (90:1). Where do you feel at home and what does it signify to you? If you do not feel at home in God what needs to change?
DAY 3
Israel was living between two worlds: Egypt and Canaan. God was their true home. Peter calls Christians “foreigners” in this world (1 Peter 2:11 NIV). In what sense are you living between two worlds?
DAY 4
God is eternal (Psalm 90:2). How does knowing God is eternal and the originator of everything help you deal with the wildernesses you experience in this life?
DAY 5
Although eternal, God does not change. How does that make Him a suitable dwelling place for you and all generations of His people?
DAY 6
In contrast to our eternal God, we are but living dust (90:3). We are breakable—subject to disease, misery, and death. How does knowing this affect your perspective on your life and on others’ lives?
DAY 7
God is like a potter who makes a vessel and then reduces it to back to dust (90:3). See Proverbs 27:1. What are you doing to prepare for that day?
DAY 8
A thousand years is a long time to us but insignificant to our eternal God (Psalm 90:4). He is not bound by time like we are. How does this affect your view of God? Of yourself?
DAY 9
Our life is short (90:5-6). In these verses, what imagery emphasizes the brevity of life? How does thinking of your life in these terms create a sense of urgency? (See Ephesians 5:16.)
DAY 10
The Israelites were dying off under the judgment of God because of their rebellion (Psalm 90:7-9). For believers death is our doorway to heaven. In view of heaven what meaning does your life have?
Making Your Life Count - Psalm 90
DAY 11
Sooner or later your life will be cut off (90:10). Your one shot at life will end. Then comes eternity. What have you done in life that will outlast you?
DAY 12
To “number our days” (90:12) is about considering the brevity of your life against its God-given purposes and choosing to live with eternity in view. What happens if you fail to number your days?
DAY 13
Are your daily choices made in light of heaven’s eternal rewards? Is your life eternity-driven?
DAY 14
In view of the previous reflections let’s evaluate: what is your life’s purpose?
DAY 15
What are your life’s priorities? (Hint: how you spend your time and money will tell you what they are.) What priorities need to change?
DAY 16 DAY 17
Moses chose God’s kingdom instead of earthly entanglements “because he saw him who is invisible” (Hebrews 11:23-28). Moses communed with the Lord. What can you do to strengthen your daily communion with the Lord? Read 1 Peter 4:7-11. What are some priorities you are to choose?
DAY 18
Read Hebrews 10:24-25. What three things do these verses say should be a priority in light of eternity?
DAY 19
How are your relationships with others? What do you need to make right but are avoiding? Who do you need to forgive?
DAY 20
Is the fruit of the Spirit growing in your life? Read Galatians 5:22-23; 1 John 3:2-3. What areas need more cultivation and feeding?
TIP: Keep your Bible handy and refer to it as you read the questions
DAY 21
What do you want to be remembered for? What steps are you taking today to make that happen?
DAY 22
Why is it significant that Moses prays, “Teach us”? Why do you need the Lord to teach you?
DAY 23
Pray for God’s priorities (Psalm 90:12). What are God’s priorities for your life? Today ask the Lord to help you clearly understand what He values.
DAY 24
Pray for God’s presence (90:13-15). From these verses what will you experience when the presence of God is in your daily life?
DAY 25 DAY 26 DAY 27 DAY 28
What ways is the presence of God in your life evident as joy?
Christian parents want their lives to help their descendants walk with the Lord. What do you pray for your family (90:16-17)? How can you better share God’s work in your life with them? What can you do to strengthen your family in the Lord?
How can you better trust God to establish your life and make it count as though it depends entirely on Him?
DAY 29
Moses’ prayer for the children to follow the Lord (90:16) was answered. They were the most devout of any Israelite generation. How did that then make their parent’s lives in the wilderness count?
DAY 30
When the favour and beauty of the Lord rest on a life it will count and make a difference. Pray God will graciously make your life and work count.
Making Your Life Count - Psalm 90
WHAT ABOUT WOMEN IN THE CHURCH?
“Sometimes it's tough for women in today's church to know where they fit. That really shouldn't be.” - CHARLES R. SWINDOLL
In May 2015 no broadcast was streamed more on insightforliving.ca than Chuck’s message on women’s roles in the Church. And it makes sense—what Scripture says and what culture says about a woman’s role is different! When we dig deeper into the issues it seems there are four main areas of separation. 1. In the world women have become liberated more than restrained 2. On the job women have become respected more than exploited 3. Around the home women have become assaulted more than supported 4. In the Church women have become confused about their roles more than informed and affirmed Few things are more countercultural than the Bible’s take on the role of women in
the Church. Chuck exposits 1 Timothy 2:915, pointing out when the Church takes its cues from the culture it becomes culturally irrelevant, losing its saltiness and light (Matthew 5:13-16). This topic will always be controversial and people will continue misinterpreting and misapplying the Bible’s teaching. Here are three clarifying remarks based on what 1 Timothy 2:9-15 says about women in the Church. 1. Men, these limitations on a woman’s role in the Church are to be respected— not exaggerated, expanded, or exploited 2. Women, your positive response to this teaching helps the Church maintain its distinctiveness 3. Those who take their cues from the world will neither accept nor appreciate this teaching
“What about Women in the Church?” is from Chuck Swindoll’s series: Excellence in Ministry: Starting Strong—Doing What’s Right in the Work of Ministry, A Study of 1 Timothy 1-3. You can stream this message online anytime at insightforliving.ca/audiolibrary.
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