The Letter from James: Part 1
James 1:2-8
The letter from the Apostle James is replete with very strong words,
Filled with compelling insights that strain, words not easily heard.
“Consider it pure joy, my friends, whenever you face life’s trials.”
A command as solemn as this one is tends not to elicit smiles.
It’s difficult to respond with joy when our faith encounters a test.
Tests of faith tend to annoy and sometimes make me depressed.
But reading my Bible this I know: through testing we persevere.
Then by perseverance we grow, for this is how we mature.
When perseverance completes its work, the believer is not deficient.
When duty calls he will not shirk, for God has made him sufficient.
We thank the Lord for yesterday’s trials; without them we’re incomplete.
We’re ready to face the devil’s guile without shrinking or retreat.
The second truth James brings to us concerns wisdom’s appropriate source.
If we don’t receive our wisdom from God, we soon will drift off course.
Three things we do to receive Godly wisdom: ask, believe, don’t doubt.
Trust in God instead of this world; it’s what believing is all about.
But if you ask in fear and doubt, you’re tossed like the waves of the sea.
You’ll be confused and do without. What a miserable way to be!
If this is the kind of believer you are, you sadly wear this label:
“Double minded, windblown and tossed, unbalanced and unstable.”
God would not tell us to seek His face if His wisdom He wouldn’t bestow.
The wisdom of God that comes from above is superior to that below.
You can trust Him; don’t live in fear, His thoughts about you are love.
Accept His trials, persevere; place your hand in the Father’s above.
© Copyright George M. Cuff, All Rights Reserved
Monday, December 14, 2009
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Onesimus, the Runaway Slave
Paul's Letter to Philemon
When Paul was old, a prisoner in Rome, to Philemon he wrote a letter.
He said was sending Onesimus home so all could see he was better.
This once worthless, runaway slave had experienced a transformation,
For while in Rome he was saved, responding to God’s invitation.
This man, Philemon, was close to Paul, a special friendship dear.
The circumstances were known to all, so Paul spoke frankly and clear.
“I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do,
But let the following story unfold and carefully think this through.
Onesimus is like a son to me. His faith is genuine and true.
All who know him clearly see that he would be useful to you.
Though still a slave in earthly terms, he’s a brother in the LORD.
Now, with all that he has learned, his usefulness is restored.
Personally, dear friend, if it were up to me, I’d keep him here in Rome.
He has been a blessing to me as I minister from my home.
If for some reason he returns, it must be with your consent.
We have committed this matter to God in whom we are content.
Since we are partners in the LORD receive him as you would me.
Whatever it is that he may owe, you know I’ll pay the fee.
Perhaps his departure in a mysterious way was part of a greater plan.
You can receive him not as a slave, but a new and better man.”
There is a truth that flows through this letter forming a powerful theme:
Those God calls are changed for the better the moment they are redeemed.
We are given these earthly years to faithfully live for His glory
Awaiting the day we give account, relating to Him our story.
What will I have to give to the Master when standing before His throne?
Will I have fruit to lay at His feet that moment when all is known?
Do I care about His kingdom? Have I responded to His call?
O Lord, I treasure your truth. Help me to give my all.
When Paul was old, a prisoner in Rome, to Philemon he wrote a letter.
He said was sending Onesimus home so all could see he was better.
This once worthless, runaway slave had experienced a transformation,
For while in Rome he was saved, responding to God’s invitation.
This man, Philemon, was close to Paul, a special friendship dear.
The circumstances were known to all, so Paul spoke frankly and clear.
“I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do,
But let the following story unfold and carefully think this through.
Onesimus is like a son to me. His faith is genuine and true.
All who know him clearly see that he would be useful to you.
Though still a slave in earthly terms, he’s a brother in the LORD.
Now, with all that he has learned, his usefulness is restored.
Personally, dear friend, if it were up to me, I’d keep him here in Rome.
He has been a blessing to me as I minister from my home.
If for some reason he returns, it must be with your consent.
We have committed this matter to God in whom we are content.
Since we are partners in the LORD receive him as you would me.
Whatever it is that he may owe, you know I’ll pay the fee.
Perhaps his departure in a mysterious way was part of a greater plan.
You can receive him not as a slave, but a new and better man.”
There is a truth that flows through this letter forming a powerful theme:
Those God calls are changed for the better the moment they are redeemed.
We are given these earthly years to faithfully live for His glory
Awaiting the day we give account, relating to Him our story.
What will I have to give to the Master when standing before His throne?
Will I have fruit to lay at His feet that moment when all is known?
Do I care about His kingdom? Have I responded to His call?
O Lord, I treasure your truth. Help me to give my all.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
The Coming Day of Judgment
Messages from Malachi: Part 4
Malcahi 4:1-6
Once again Malachi warns of a Day of Judgment to come.
True believers are safe in Christ, but there will be judgment for some.
God has provided a way of salvation to avoid His righteous ire,
But those who choose to reject His plan will burn like straw in a fire.
There is a remnant in the land—God calls them His treasured possession—
Who have trusted Christ as LORD, been forgiven all transgression.
This, His Church, will come with Christ to enter the millennial reign
Where they will serve the King of Kings ruling His vast domain.
The sun of righteousness will arise with healing in its wings,
As His servants light the world with the perfection Jesus brings.
Like the calf that leaps and jumps as it exits a crowded stall,
So godly rule brings joy and fulfillment not just for one, for all.
Before the Savior would be born, an Elijah-like prophet would come
To preach the message of repentance and identify God’s only Son. He said,
“The Fathers who turn and love their sons instead of the money purse
Will prepare them, with help from above, to survive the coming curse.”
Certainly our present immoral culture, weighed down by sin and greed,
Is plunging into spiritual despair unaware of its peril and need.
So we must shine as lamps in the dark, be salt in these difficult days.
We must live our lives in truth to the glory of His praise.
© Copyright George M. Cuff, All Rights Reserved
Malcahi 4:1-6
Once again Malachi warns of a Day of Judgment to come.
True believers are safe in Christ, but there will be judgment for some.
God has provided a way of salvation to avoid His righteous ire,
But those who choose to reject His plan will burn like straw in a fire.
There is a remnant in the land—God calls them His treasured possession—
Who have trusted Christ as LORD, been forgiven all transgression.
This, His Church, will come with Christ to enter the millennial reign
Where they will serve the King of Kings ruling His vast domain.
The sun of righteousness will arise with healing in its wings,
As His servants light the world with the perfection Jesus brings.
Like the calf that leaps and jumps as it exits a crowded stall,
So godly rule brings joy and fulfillment not just for one, for all.
Before the Savior would be born, an Elijah-like prophet would come
To preach the message of repentance and identify God’s only Son. He said,
“The Fathers who turn and love their sons instead of the money purse
Will prepare them, with help from above, to survive the coming curse.”
Certainly our present immoral culture, weighed down by sin and greed,
Is plunging into spiritual despair unaware of its peril and need.
So we must shine as lamps in the dark, be salt in these difficult days.
We must live our lives in truth to the glory of His praise.
© Copyright George M. Cuff, All Rights Reserved
Friday, December 11, 2009
Generous Giving and Prosperous Living
Messages from Malachi: Part Three
Malachi 3:1-17
God sent the Savior to His people, the messenger He had proclaimed
Who suddenly appeared and cleansed the temple, just as He had ordained.
But man’s greatest judgment lies in the future when Jesus comes again,
For then will the oppressors, sorcerers, and liars hear testimony against their sin.
“Return to Me and I will forgive you,” says the God of power.
“It’s only because of My covenant that you are here this hour.”
“What do you mean ‘Return to Me;’ what have we done to thee?”
“I mean that you are under a curse. You’ve got to stop robbing Me!”
“How have we robbed you? What’s your problem? What do you advise?”
“The whole nation is under a curse for failing to pay the tithe.”
“Bring the whole tithe and not just a part. To you, I offer this test:
See if I open the windows of heaven til you are exceedingly blessed.”
“I will protect your crops in the field. I’ll do this by My mighty hand.
Then all the nations will clearly see you live in a prosperous land.
For when the tithe is brought to God so that there is food in My house,
I, the Lord, will rain down blessings on you, your children, and spouse.”
“There’s one more thing you need to hear: You’ve spoken harsh words against Me.
You have said, ‘It’s futile to serve’ and grumbled against God Almighty.”
Then those who were wise and feared the Lord came together for consultation.
God saw their hearts; listened and heard and honored their consecration.
It’s so easy to groan and complain in troubled times of living,
But are you removed from God’s gracious care because of a lack of giving?
Are you in need of blessings today? Do you need God’s generous provision?
Perhaps it’s time to kneel and pray, to recant your previous decisions.
You can count on God to forgive, for He is a God of grace.
He will supply all your needs when He sees your repentant face.
He has not promised to grant all your wants, but if His Word you will heed,
God will provide fulfillment in life and all your material needs.
© Copyright George M. Cuff, All Rights Reserved
Malachi 3:1-17
God sent the Savior to His people, the messenger He had proclaimed
Who suddenly appeared and cleansed the temple, just as He had ordained.
But man’s greatest judgment lies in the future when Jesus comes again,
For then will the oppressors, sorcerers, and liars hear testimony against their sin.
“Return to Me and I will forgive you,” says the God of power.
“It’s only because of My covenant that you are here this hour.”
“What do you mean ‘Return to Me;’ what have we done to thee?”
“I mean that you are under a curse. You’ve got to stop robbing Me!”
“How have we robbed you? What’s your problem? What do you advise?”
“The whole nation is under a curse for failing to pay the tithe.”
“Bring the whole tithe and not just a part. To you, I offer this test:
See if I open the windows of heaven til you are exceedingly blessed.”
“I will protect your crops in the field. I’ll do this by My mighty hand.
Then all the nations will clearly see you live in a prosperous land.
For when the tithe is brought to God so that there is food in My house,
I, the Lord, will rain down blessings on you, your children, and spouse.”
“There’s one more thing you need to hear: You’ve spoken harsh words against Me.
You have said, ‘It’s futile to serve’ and grumbled against God Almighty.”
Then those who were wise and feared the Lord came together for consultation.
God saw their hearts; listened and heard and honored their consecration.
It’s so easy to groan and complain in troubled times of living,
But are you removed from God’s gracious care because of a lack of giving?
Are you in need of blessings today? Do you need God’s generous provision?
Perhaps it’s time to kneel and pray, to recant your previous decisions.
You can count on God to forgive, for He is a God of grace.
He will supply all your needs when He sees your repentant face.
He has not promised to grant all your wants, but if His Word you will heed,
God will provide fulfillment in life and all your material needs.
© Copyright George M. Cuff, All Rights Reserved
Thursday, December 10, 2009
God Hates Divorce
Messages from Malchi: Part Two
Malachi 2:1-16
Three sins are shared in Malachi two that were the focus of God’s attention.
He addressed them plainly as you can see to be sure of their comprehension.
Each of these issues chronicled departure from God’s commands in His law
When given by Moses to the tribes as they stood at Mount Sinai in awe.
The first was the curse upon the priests as their God they refused to revere.
The priests were the reason their worship of God was deficient and insincere.
The lips of a priest are to pour forth knowledge, from his mouth men seek instruction,
But by their example and dishonest hearts, they were messengers of destruction.
The second sin was their love for world and evil God had forbidden.
All were to marry within the faith. From within they should find their women.
By marrying pagans who worshipped false gods, they deeply offended their LORD.
Then within two or three generations His truth and light are ignored.
The third sin was the sin of divorce as they abandoned the wife of their youth.
Divorce is not a viable option for those who would live in the truth.
Guard your spirit; commit your heart, for life is a long-distance race.
Devote yourself fully to your spouse. God’s will is not to break faith.
These three sins the Lord condemned as He spoke through Malachi.
We would be wise to watch our ways and his message earnestly apply.
Let us sincerely follow the LORD; loyally walk in His truth,
And let us be faithful to the one who became the wife of our youth.
© Copyright George M. Cuff, All Rights Reserved
Malachi 2:1-16
Three sins are shared in Malachi two that were the focus of God’s attention.
He addressed them plainly as you can see to be sure of their comprehension.
Each of these issues chronicled departure from God’s commands in His law
When given by Moses to the tribes as they stood at Mount Sinai in awe.
The first was the curse upon the priests as their God they refused to revere.
The priests were the reason their worship of God was deficient and insincere.
The lips of a priest are to pour forth knowledge, from his mouth men seek instruction,
But by their example and dishonest hearts, they were messengers of destruction.
The second sin was their love for world and evil God had forbidden.
All were to marry within the faith. From within they should find their women.
By marrying pagans who worshipped false gods, they deeply offended their LORD.
Then within two or three generations His truth and light are ignored.
The third sin was the sin of divorce as they abandoned the wife of their youth.
Divorce is not a viable option for those who would live in the truth.
Guard your spirit; commit your heart, for life is a long-distance race.
Devote yourself fully to your spouse. God’s will is not to break faith.
These three sins the Lord condemned as He spoke through Malachi.
We would be wise to watch our ways and his message earnestly apply.
Let us sincerely follow the LORD; loyally walk in His truth,
And let us be faithful to the one who became the wife of our youth.
© Copyright George M. Cuff, All Rights Reserved
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Are You Serious about your Faith?
Messages from Malachi: Part One
Malachi 1:1-14
After Ezra and Nehemiah died, Judah allowed her devotion to slide.
There was one hundred years since Haggai before Malachi came forth to prophesy.
He spoke to a people whose priests were corrupt with words that were strong, sometimes abrupt.
They doubted God’s love, dishonored His name; exploited the priesthood for personal gain.
It was a hard message that Malachi spoke to a nation enslaved by sin’s cruel yoke.
All the same problems Malachi observed are present today among those who serve.
We approach His writings with attitude sincere; the sin that was there is also here.
So let’s not pretend we haven’t heard, but carefully examine the prophet’s word.
“A son honors his father and a slave his master, for life without order becomes a disaster.
I am your God deserving respect. Where is the honor I rightfully expect?
How can you keep your spiritual life fresh when the greatest among you live in the flesh?
Why light these fires and burn incense when your heart is filled with evil intent?
The priests are the ones who dishonor My name, whose conduct brings disgrace and shame.
Don’t pretend you’re not to blame when you sacrifice lambs that are blind and maimed.
Try offering them to the one in charge. Why don’t you give it to the governor at large?
You need to come humbly for forgiveness of sin. You need to be cleansed from vileness within.
I wish you would shut the temple door, for your sin is increasing more and more.
You light many fires on the altar true, but I will receive no offering from you.
My name is great among all the nations. I will not endorse your corrupt celebrations.
Such devious conduct will never be accepted. Your hearts are dark, your sacrifice rejected.”
I told you His message was for the serious, not for the faint or merely curious.
God is calling a people to claim, a body of believers who honor His name.
What kind of service have you been giving? Has He become your reason for living?
Time is short, the end is near. Be sure your devotion to Christ is sincere.
© Copyright George M. Cuff, All Rights Reserved
Malachi 1:1-14
After Ezra and Nehemiah died, Judah allowed her devotion to slide.
There was one hundred years since Haggai before Malachi came forth to prophesy.
He spoke to a people whose priests were corrupt with words that were strong, sometimes abrupt.
They doubted God’s love, dishonored His name; exploited the priesthood for personal gain.
It was a hard message that Malachi spoke to a nation enslaved by sin’s cruel yoke.
All the same problems Malachi observed are present today among those who serve.
We approach His writings with attitude sincere; the sin that was there is also here.
So let’s not pretend we haven’t heard, but carefully examine the prophet’s word.
“A son honors his father and a slave his master, for life without order becomes a disaster.
I am your God deserving respect. Where is the honor I rightfully expect?
How can you keep your spiritual life fresh when the greatest among you live in the flesh?
Why light these fires and burn incense when your heart is filled with evil intent?
The priests are the ones who dishonor My name, whose conduct brings disgrace and shame.
Don’t pretend you’re not to blame when you sacrifice lambs that are blind and maimed.
Try offering them to the one in charge. Why don’t you give it to the governor at large?
You need to come humbly for forgiveness of sin. You need to be cleansed from vileness within.
I wish you would shut the temple door, for your sin is increasing more and more.
You light many fires on the altar true, but I will receive no offering from you.
My name is great among all the nations. I will not endorse your corrupt celebrations.
Such devious conduct will never be accepted. Your hearts are dark, your sacrifice rejected.”
I told you His message was for the serious, not for the faint or merely curious.
God is calling a people to claim, a body of believers who honor His name.
What kind of service have you been giving? Has He become your reason for living?
Time is short, the end is near. Be sure your devotion to Christ is sincere.
© Copyright George M. Cuff, All Rights Reserved
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Dressed for Success
Insights from Ephesians: Part Nine
Ephesians 6:13-18
All true believers are in a war with an evil enemy we cannot ignore.
We must be alert every hour remaining strong in God’s mighty power
To defeat the flesh and demonic teams who carry out the devil’s schemes.
In order to triumph in this test, the Bible tells us how we should dress.
We buckle on the belt of truth. Works best if we wear it from our youth.
The Breastplate of Righteousness does its part giving protection to the heart.
Fitted with peace, our feet are ready to move in battle or stand steady.
The shield of faith provides protection when arrows are fired from every direction.
Our minds we protect from evil temptation by wearing the helmet of salvation.
We pick up the fearsome sword of the spirit so lethal to demons they won’t come near it.
This is how we dress each day, but before we head out, we stop to pray.
We exalt our God with prayers and praises trusting His guidance in all its phases.
There’s coming a day when we’ll battle no more, but until that day we fight in this war.
The armor, the weapons and giving of thanks help us defeat the enemy’s ranks.
So get up tomorrow; be ready to fight, put on the armor; go forth in God’s might.
Soon our Lord will call us up higher, but the devil will land in the Lake of Fire.
© Copyright George M. Cuff, All Rights Reserved
Ephesians 6:13-18
All true believers are in a war with an evil enemy we cannot ignore.
We must be alert every hour remaining strong in God’s mighty power
To defeat the flesh and demonic teams who carry out the devil’s schemes.
In order to triumph in this test, the Bible tells us how we should dress.
We buckle on the belt of truth. Works best if we wear it from our youth.
The Breastplate of Righteousness does its part giving protection to the heart.
Fitted with peace, our feet are ready to move in battle or stand steady.
The shield of faith provides protection when arrows are fired from every direction.
Our minds we protect from evil temptation by wearing the helmet of salvation.
We pick up the fearsome sword of the spirit so lethal to demons they won’t come near it.
This is how we dress each day, but before we head out, we stop to pray.
We exalt our God with prayers and praises trusting His guidance in all its phases.
There’s coming a day when we’ll battle no more, but until that day we fight in this war.
The armor, the weapons and giving of thanks help us defeat the enemy’s ranks.
So get up tomorrow; be ready to fight, put on the armor; go forth in God’s might.
Soon our Lord will call us up higher, but the devil will land in the Lake of Fire.
© Copyright George M. Cuff, All Rights Reserved
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