"I Am Dangerous To Myself!" (Proverbs 26:11)

“Dad, what did you do?”

My throbbing toe turned purple as the blood began to well up in the soft tissue.

“I stubbed my toe on a stool.”

“Dad! You have to be more careful!”

“I know, sweetheart!” nodding my head. “I am dangerous to myself!”

Indeed I am! Hardly a week goes by when I don’t end up scratching, cutting, or bruising myself. Most of the time, I am rushing, encouraging my careless and clumsy habits. It seems that it is very difficult to change this behavior. As I reflected upon my latest injury, a sad realization emerged, perhaps I didn’t want to break these bad habits? I like rushing. I like to accomplish in one hour what takes others an entire day to even attempt. So, in spite of my numerous injuries, why fix it, if ain’t broke?

Like a dog that returns to his vomit is a fool who repeats his folly.

Proverbs 26:11 (ESV)

My life emulates the Patriarch Jacob, always manipulating situations for my benefit, living by my own rules.  When things go the way I envision, I convince myself that it is God’s blessing when, in reality, I am simply exerting my will. I am stubborn and prideful and keep returning to my own vomit, wallowing in my own follies. My physical injuries may be visible but the emotional scars are deeper and searing. God wants to show me a better way but do I obey?

I am dangerous to myself. What hope is there for me? Thanks be to God that by confessing and repenting of my sins to Jesus Christ, He is faithful and just to forgive me. He makes me aware of my many shortcomings and is transforming me into the image of His Son, Jesus Christ.

Praise God that He rescues me from myself.

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

Epignosis (Philippians 1:9)

It was 1979 and I was sitting in my high school calculus class. My teacher was a formidable figure on campus, revered by generations of students who, because of his innovative teaching, excelled in their AP calculus exams. He was a strict disciplinarian and we always sat at attention in his class. On this afternoon, he was scribbling formulas on the chalkboard when he abruptly stopped and pointed to the complex patterns.

“I don’t want you to simply know this,” he began. “I want you to know epignosis this!”

He wrote on the chalkboard the Greek word gnosis.

γνωσις

“This means to know.” He then added a prefix, completing the word, epignosis.

Ἐπίγνωσις

“Epignosis means to have full knowledge or precise and correct knowledge. It means I want you to know this as part of your very soul!”

We all nodded, fearful that we would fail to learn this obviously important lesson. Little did I know that this was one of my earliest introductions to New Testament Greek! My teacher was a believer in Jesus Christ and studied the Bible as passionately as he taught calculus. Years later, after I became a Christian, this word re-appeared in my vocabulary. This word, epignosis, is used at least twenty times in the New Testament by the Apostle Paul and several other writers, inspired by the Holy Spirit.

And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment,

Philippians 1:9 (NKJV)

Like my high school calculus teacher lessons, it was not enough to simply know about God. I had to consume, live, and breathe it. God’s Word was to become part of my very soul. I had to epignosis Him! And with this knowledge, I will be able to discern God’s will in my life. I wil be able to love God more completely and freely so that He may bring me to completion in the image of His Son, Jesus Christ.

Epignosis.

Perfection and completion in life only comes with the precise and correct knowledge of God!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

Hello, Old Friend! (Psalms 119:140)

When I lead worship, I select an appropriate Bible verse that introduces the song I am about to perform. These verses are placed in a presentation software program and inserted as an electronic slide before each song. The other day, to introduce a song about the Bible, I perused my Bible-seeking appropriate verses. After a few minutes, I paused upon this one.

Your word is very pure; Therefore Your servant loves it.

Psalms 119:140 (NKJV)

“Hello, old friend!” I whispered, as I re-read this promise of God. This verse brought back a flood of warm memories. I first read it when I purchased a Bible in 1987 that outlined a plan to read the entire Bible in a year. At the top of the calendar index was this verse. It inspired me to keep to the reading plan, since every day, this verse greeted me as I turned to the calendar index that directed me to the Bible verses linked to the appropriate day. For one year, the verse became a trusted and familiar friend.

When I have not seen a friend for a while, every reunion inevitably recalls fond reminiscences of shared experiences. We spend time catching up on each other’s lives. We share our tears and fears. We confide in each other, deeply trusting in a way that only two close friends are able.

Like the comfort of an old friend, when I re-read this verse, God reminded me of how He brought me through difficult circumstances in my life through the comfort of His Word. I recalled one forlorn moment. I was completely dejected and decided to read the entire Psalms. Upon completion, God encouraged and strengthened me. With so many beautiful verses in the Psalms, God directed me back to this one familiar verse. I declared it loudly and clearly, claiming God’s promises.

Hello, old friend! Thank you for always being there for me!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

"They Didn't Teach This To You In Medical School?" (Revelation 22:18-19)

With the accessibility to the plethora of medical information on the internet, it seems that everyone has become an expert in some area of health care. Many times, lay people have approached me, knowing I am a doctor, and ask me to verify the information they have read or heard on the internet. I am happy to give my opinion knowing that, while the area of medicine may not be my area of expertise, I am probably more qualified to render an opinion on this topic. However, there have been a few individuals who are more belligerent in their questioning of me. One person was particularly agitated over my answer and blurted, “They didn’t teach this to you in medical school? You should read up on this!”

There is not much more I can do in a situation like this. I can agree to disagree and usually politely nod and leave the conversation. Unfortunately, this type of arrogance and self-assuredness carries over to spiritual discussions as well. Like medical information, the internet is replete with advice on how to live a spiritual life. Innumerable articles on prayer, fasting, worship, marriage, relationships, financial management, Bible reading and studies-all written by pundits with a myriad of educational backgrounds and experiences. And there are many well-meaning brothers and sisters who will tout this information as truth. If I was a pastor and unsure of the veracity of the articles, they would be questioning me, “They didn’t teach this to you in seminary?” For some, the Bible is not enough to answer all of the questions of life. They need to supplement the God’s Word with scholarly discussions from other sources.

For I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to these things, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book; and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the Book of Life, from the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.

Revelation 22:18-19 (NKJV)

Like medical information on the internet, there are also excellent articles that can assist the believer to deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ. But at the heart of any article or advice must be the Word of God and all discussions must exalt Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. On this point, I cannot agree to disagree. God’s Word is very pure and I love it. Nothing needs to be added or taken away from it.

Amen!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

"They Live, Breathe, and Eat Pathology!" (Hebrews 5:12)

During my pathology residency, one of my closest friends and colleagues had returned from a national pathology conference held in the mid-west. There was a visceral change in his attitude as he pulled me aside, anxious to update me with his experience.

“Paul!” he gushed. “You won't believe these other residents! They live, breathe, and eat pathology!”

“What do you mean?” I stammered.

“All they talk about is the latest journal articles, their research papers, and their future fellowship plans.They are 1000% committed to pathology!  We have to be like them!”

I was disturbed by my friend’s revelation. I thought I was diligent about my training but my friend clearly had an epiphany. Within a few months, I experienced, first hand, this passion and commitment that other pathology residents lived when I also attended a national conference. I returned, dejected over my sense of inadequacy and tepid enthusiasm and was inspired to improve. It was a wake up call and fortunately, it happened early in my training so that I could change my habits and re-dedicate my efforts.

For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food.

Hebrews 5:12 (NKJV)

When I attended my first Christian conference, I experienced a similar sense of inadequacy. I had the privilege of meeting brothers and sisters in Jesus Christ from all over the country. Many were on fire for Jesus. They truly lived, breathed, and ate the Word of God! I wanted to do the same but I was still being weaned on milk when I should have been desiring sold food.

I thought my Christian walk was strong but I was deluding myself because I was not seeking active fellowship with mature Christians nor was I spending quality time in God’s Word and prayer. Like my pathology training, my attitude changed and with time, God led me to a Bible believing church with mature Christians who faithfully mentored me.

I desire solid food but not to compare myself to other believers, but rather, to seek a closer relationship with my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

Four Times A Week (Luke 24:27)

When I was a resident in pathology at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, I attended a wonderful Baptist Church. The pastor loved the Word of God and taught it with a passion. I was so inspired to learn the Bible that I attended the church four times a week: Wednesday night Bible study, Sunday School before the main service, the Sunday morning service, and the Sunday evening service. And during the week, I would devour my Bible, often spending every free moment reading the Bible and memorizing verses. But I was not the only one. I was inspired by many faithful brothers and sisters in that church who shared the same passion for God’s Word as the pastor. Even casual conversations revolved around deep theological themes and the recitation of Bible passages that spoke to their hearts. My heart burned ever brighter for God’s Word with each encounter I had at that church.

And beginning at Moses and all the Prophets, He expounded to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself.

Luke 24:27 (NKJV)

On the road to Emmaus, two followers of Jesus had the privilege to meet and be taught by the glorified and resurrected Jesus Christ. As Jesus taught them how all of the Scriptures pointed to Him, they exclaimed,

...Did not our heart burn within us while He talked with us on the road, and while He opened the Scriptures to us?

Luke 24:32 (NKJV)

I craved the Word because Jesus was at the center of the teaching. I saw the result in the pastor, his associates, and in the members of the church family. I craved my times of learning about the Bible from my pastor in Colorado. But someday, in Heaven, Jesus Christ will be my teacher! How much more wonderful will that be?

Receiving a Bible study from God Incarnate! There is no better teacher!

May our hearts burn with desire to learn God’s Word!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

A Tool For Only One Job (Esther 4:14)

The microscopes I use for my dermatopathology practice are highly precise diagnostic instruments. Recently, the halogen light bulb burned out and I had to replace it. It had been nearly 10 years since I last did this so the protocol was unfamiliar to me. Through stumbling steps, I found a manual on the internet that explained the procedure for my microscope model. But the first step was vaguely worded-remove the cover for the light source. The only problem was how? The cover was held on by an unseen screw. As I pondered the situation, I remembered the salesperson showing me something about this microscope when he initially set it up for me.

“Now, do you see this tool?” He held up a slender piece of metal, about eight inches long. “This is the most important tool you will ever need. This tool only exists to open the cover of the light source. See!” He deftly maneuvered the tool into the small hole and loosened the unseen screw. In seconds, the cover lifted off, revealing the halogen bulb. “I am going to tape it on the body of your microscope so you will never lose it!”

Indeed, that tool was still taped to the side of my microscope nearly 10 years later. But through the years, I had nearly forgotten the reason why that tool was there...until now! It was a tool for only one job! While it seemed like a waste of material and effort, it certainly solved the problem I had with my microscope.

...Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?

Esther 4:14 (ESV)

Queen Esther was reminded by her Uncle Mordecai that her actions over the new few hours may be the entire reason God enabled her to become Queen of Persia. Her entire existence may have been prepared for this one action, to save her fellow Jews from annihilation by the hands of the evil Haman.

God uses all believers to accomplish His purpose in this world. For some, serving may be on a grand scale as an evangelist or preacher, speaking and ministering to thousands of people at a time. For others, it may be for quieter purposes, at the bedside of a parent with cancer or comforting a child heartbroken by the loss of their parent. And perhaps for a very special individual, like Esther, their entire purpose is realized in an instant of time. Like the tool for my microscope, God may sometimes use a person, only once, for a very specialized task.

Praise God for His sovereign goodness!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

Making Decisions Faster and Slower (Mark 1:35)

When I began my own laboratory, I was abruptly thrust into the world of business. I quickly learned that some decisions had to be made quickly. But I also learned that some decisions needed to be made at a slower pace. This become clear when I dealt with personnel issues within my office. My office is small, less than ten employees. Thus, all major human resource issues are funneled through me. When an issue arises, my first inclination is to react and do something. But recently, I have taken a different approach and pondered the issue, and, instead of issuing a company-wide email directive or calling a quick meeting, I did something that I had not been doing as often as I should-I took the time to pray. Not just a quick prayer. I prayed over this decision for an entire week. At the end of the week, God gave me wisdom to deal with the potentially thorny issue, to everyone’s satisfaction.

With many people, there is a fine line between taking the time to contemplate a situation and procrastination. For me, there is an even finer line between making a quick and decisive decision and impulsiveness. God gave me wisdom to approach some decisions by following His timing and making decisions at a slower than usual pace.

Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed.

Mark 1:35 (ESV)

In this passage from Mark, Jesus had spent an entire day and night healing the people of Galilee. Undoubtedly He was exhausted when He went to sleep, but the very next morning, He arose early and prayed to God. Even His time of prayer was interrupted by His disciples who clamored for Him to help other people. But Jesus did not respond with irritation, as I would have. He kept to His mission and informed His disciples.

But He said to them, “Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also, because for this purpose I have come forth.”

Mark 1:38 (ESV)

Jesus Christ was never rushed or delayed. He was on the time schedule of God, the Father, always in perfect timing with His Father’s will. And as busy as He was, He always found time for prayer. Others attempted to place Him on their time schedules but He was always in control.

Faster or slower. Jesus shows me that all decisions are only meaningful when it is done on God’s timing and by His direction.

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

"I Taught The President To Scoop Ice Cream!" (Philippians 2:5-8)

A high school classmate revels in recounting an incident that happened when he was in high school. After school, he worked part-time at a well known ice cream chain. One day, a new hire named Barry arrived and my friend was instructed to teach him the basics. My friend demonstrated the fine art of scooping ice cream and completing orders to the new employee, who quickly caught on.  It was a summer job and he never saw him again, until, perhaps 30 years later, when Barry became president. Yes, this was Barry...Barack Obama! This happened in Honolulu where President Obama grew up and attended high school. My friend laughs when he tells the story. “I taught the president to scoop ice cream!”

The most powerful man on this planet once scooped ice cream and worked under my friend. I love to read or hear about the humble origins of celebrities or leaders. It makes them more real, almost as if that they are human too, just like me!

But could someone from even humbler origins ever become great? What about a poor shepherd? What about a rejected prostitute? What about someone born in a manger to poor young parents, growing up in a backward town, working as a carpenter, and receiving no formal education? Could he ever become famous or a great leader? Ask the prophet Amos, the prostitute Rahab, or our Lord, Jesus Christ.

Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

Philippians 2:5-8 (ESV)

Jesus Christ is God. He held the power of the universe in the palm of His hand. But when He became a man and was born on this earth, He gave up everything. He put aside His glory, emptying Himself of His greatness, and became a servant of mankind. The greatness of Jesus is not found in His humble origins, it is found in His character, in His humility and willingness to be obedient and serve God, His Father.

Like a young future president scooping ice cream, do any of us have a chance for greatness? If we define greatness by worldly achievements, the likelihood is slim indeed. Thanks be to God that our true greatness is only defined by our relationship with God through Jesus Christ. If I am willing to humble myself, give up everything that I cling to in this life, and follow Jesus as my Lord and Savior, He will begin the transformation of my life and I will live the life I was created to live, in loving fellowship with God. And this is the greatest life anyone could ever aspire...a life serving the God who created me! This is true greatness!

Amen!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

"A Lot Of People Are Suspicious Of Me!" (John 7:15)

When I was in medical school, I attended a wonderful Bible-believing church in Honolulu, Hawaii. The pastor was a charismatic man with a kind heart and gentle demeanor. Before he became a Christian, he was a nightclub singer. Because of his musical background, he and I shared a kindred spirit. I spent many hours in fellowship with him, being discipled by him. One afternoon, he shared a startling revelation.

“You know, brother,” he began, with a measured tone, “A lot of people are suspicious of me!”

I was shocked. “What are you talking about? Who would think that?” I demanded to know.

He smiled and calmed me down. “There are some in the Christian community, pastors, teachers, who view me with suspicion. I am divorced. I am a former nightclub singer. I didn’t attend seminary. Through the years, some have tried to bring me down or have questioned my credentials.”

“And what did you do?”

“God is my teacher. I am only accountable only to Him. Everything I do is based upon God’s Word.”

I understood. One of the reasons I chose to become a member of that church was the sincerity and humility of the Pastor. He taught the entire truth of the Bible and didn’t sugarcoat or gloss over sin. We all need to confess and repent of our sins and accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. Although my pastor did not attend seminary, he was a gifted teacher and preacher and I am grateful for the years of teaching and fellowship I shared with him.

And the Jews marveled, saying, “How does this Man know letters, having never studied?”

John 7:15 (NKJV)

Jesus Christ was viewed with suspicion and disdain by His fellow Jews. In addition to questioning His credentials as a rabbi, they made snide comments about His seemingly illegitimate birth, instead of recognizing and believing in the truth of His virgin birth through the Holy Spirit. They chose to ignore the miracles that He did by the power of God. They turned a deaf ear to His teaching of God’s Word. All they chose to see was an illegitimate child of a carpenter and his unfaithful wife, who taught as if He was formally trained, and allegedly performed miracles by the power of Satan.

They judged Him based upon their criteria of success and ignored the words He spoke and the lives that were changed.

Formal training is important, but it is just the beginning. Good character, humility, and honesty before God is what has eternal significance.

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

Reproducibility (Acts 2:21)

Reproducibility in science means that other researchers are able to duplicate the same results that another group has proposed. Research papers are required to document the methodology used to arrive at their results. In theory, if another research group followed this same methodology, it should lead to the same conclusion. However, there is increasing evidence that this is not always the case.

Several investigators have published critical accounts documenting that published methodologies are not precise and do not lead to reproducibility. Upon intensive scrutiny, it was discovered that minor variations in the type of laboratory test animals, slight changes in reagents, even alterations in the statistical analysis, may lead to lack of reproducibility. After analyzing several published research papers, one investigator stated, “People make these flippant comments that science is not reproducible. These first five papers show there are layers of complexity here that make it hard to say that.”

The scientific method prides itself upon its precision. Thus, many scientists are understandably chagrined by these charges of lack of reproducibility within their own research. As I reflected upon this issue, I wondered if there is any spiritual event that is absolutely reproducible?

And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

Acts 2:21 (ESV)

Anyone who confesses and repents of their sins and accepts Jesus Christ as the Lord and Savior, are forever saved and indwelled by the Holy Spirit. This is absolutely reproducible. The pathway, the methodology that God uses to bring each believer to Him, may radically differ, but the outcome is always the same. Eternal salvation. And there is one more glorious note, once saved, someday, we will all be in the presence of Jesus Christ for eternity.

All praise to the Living God, Jesus Christ, who showers us with His grace and mercy! It is reproducible and the truth!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

"I Send My Family To Him!" (Matthew 16:26)

The medical director of a large and successful dermatology group in San Francisco called me the other day. My name had been given as a reference for one of my former dermatology residents who was seeking a job with their practice. Although the phone call began amicably, there was a notable hesitation in her voice as she asked questioned the depth of the relationship I had with her new applicant. She was concerned that as a dermatopathologist, I did not have enough direct exposure to his clinical skills. I knew how to remedy the situation.

“Dr. Smith, “ I began. “I want to reassure you that I have observed his clinical skills and they are excellent. In fact, he even treated me when I slammed my ring finger in my car door. All of the other residents gathered around him as he demonstrated how to use a hyfrecator to relieve the pressure of the blood building up below my nail. He performed a digital nerve block and expertly drained the blood. He has a vast amount of experience because he worked with a hand surgeon before he entered his dermatology residency. I have complete confidence in his clinical skills and his rapport with patients is superb. In fact, I send my family to him!”

That did it! She laughed and exclaimed, “Well, that is a great reference! You and your family!” She was relieved and shared, “We interviewed several people for this position but he is the leading candidate. I am sure your recommendation will seal the deal!”

When I am willing to trust my life and the welfare of my own family members with this physician, it sent a clear message about the degree of trust I placed in him. It was more than enough to convince this physician recruiter to trust my judgment and recommendation.

For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?

Matthew 16:26 (NKJV)

My relationship with Jesus Christ is no different. I can chose to place my confidence in my education, my diplomas, my awards, and my job. The world proclaims that these are all worthy endeavours and should be worthy objects of our desires. My patients and other physicians place their trust in my background and credentials to render a correct diagnosis. This is all very important. But the most important object of our trust should be the eternal destination of our souls.

I choose to place my trust in Jesus Christ. I acknowledge and appreciate the background I have to reach this point in my life. But what good is it if I gain the world but lose my soul? If my treasure is contained in worldly possessions and positions, my soul will also be submerged in these worldly pursuits.

I, and my family, place our trust in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. We seek to allow God to use our lives to point others to Jesus Christ.

I pray that our example may encourage everyone to place their trust in Him.

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

Soul Candy (Proverbs 6:20-22)

I spent a relaxing weekend in the Okanagan valley in Northern British Columbia with my wife and some of her family.The sweeping views of Lake Okanagan, surrounded by snow capped mountains, were spectacular. On our first full day there, the sun broke through and illuminated a blissful setting. And as we left the following morning, a light dusting of snow gently blanketed the valley.

It was pure eye candy.

As my eyes savored the views, I wondered, is there a soul candy?

My son, keep your father's command, and do not forsake the law of your mother.

Bind them continually upon your heart; tie them around your neck.

When you roam, they will lead you; when you sleep, they will keep you;

And when you awake, they will speak with you.

Proverbs 6:20-22 (NKJV)

God’s Word is the soul candy. It nourishes, refreshes, and delights. It is sweet to taste, delicious and filling when I consume it, and always satisfying. It leads me, keeps, me, and speaks to me. And I will never, ever, become full. The more I receive, the more I desire. Just like the beauty of the Okanagan valley, God wants me to delight in His Word and in Him, devouring His soul candy. And as He feeds me, He shall give me the desires of my heart.

Soul Candy.

God’s Creation is eye candy. But God’s Word is my soul candy!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

Somali Pirates and Sushi (Ecclesiastes 3:11)

During my recent visit to Japan, I dined at a well-known sushi restaurant. As I enjoyed the excellent meal, I was intrigued to learn about its flamboyant owner and founder and his relationship with Somali pirates.

A very successful businessman, this sushi owner was alarmed over the attacks by Somali pirates on passenger ships, including commercial fishing boats. Some of the waters where the pirates preyed overlapped with some of the prime fishing areas for his tuna fishing business. He decided to take matters into his own hands and through successive contacts, set up a series of meetings with several leaders of the Somali pirates. What he discovered surprised and motivated him to action. All of the pirates stated they turned to piracy because they had no other choices to make a living.  The Somali civil war had destroyed their homes. When he heard this, he pitched the idea to train them as commercial fisherman and work for him, fishing in the same waters that they had previously terrorized. The idea worked and this sushi owner’s efforts led to a dramatic reduction in the Somali pirating activities. The government of Djibouti even awarded him a medal for his efforts!

This inspiring story reminded me of our inherent need to find one’s self-worth and to be accepted by others and society. These pirates sought stability in their broken lives and were willing to go to extreme measures to achieve this. They felt there was no other option until this sushi owner showed them a better way.

He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also, He has put eternity into man's heart, yet so that He cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end.

Ecclesiastes 3:11 (ESV)

God understands our deepest needs and aspirations. He created us with a God-shaped hole within our very soul. Only He can fill it and only He can satisfy our cravings. Instead, we think we can fill this hole with pleasures and material possessions from the world. All this does is increase our frustrations, sometimes leading to desperate measures and solutions. Only by confessing and repenting of our sins and accepting Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior do we find our true self-worth and acceptance.

Amen!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

Five Years Is Not a Long Time (Psalms 90:10)

My medical residency was in pathology. At that time, the residency program was five years, one of the longer residency training periods. After my residency, I completed two additional fellowships. Given the broad and immense knowledge base of the field, five years does seem like an adequate length of time to assimilate and master the information. However, I did not take the long training period for granted. Every weekend, I spent all my free time in the hospital, reviewing study set slides of rare diseases and voraciously reading every textbook in pathology. Occasionally, other residents, who were on call, would stop by the office and ask me, “Are you on call?” assuming this would be the only reason why I would be at the hospital on a weekend. I would look up from my microscope and, smiling, say, “No, just here to look at study sets.” The response was always a quizzical, “Why?” And with equal confusion on my face, I would reply, “Five years is not a long time.”

Five years is not a long time.The five years provided a good foundation for my career but after my residency training was completed, the real learning began. I am still learning new things in pathology.

The years of our life are seventy, or even by reason of strength eighty…

Psalms 90:10 (ESV)

This Bible verse, written by the Holy Spirit thousands of years ago, is remarkable for its prescience. The World Health Organization states that the average life expectancy in the world is 71 years and in the United States, it is 79.3 years. My parents passed away at ages 78 and 82 years. In the past five years, numerous friends and relative have passed away, all around 80 years. It is a sobering reminder of God’s sovereign control over our lives and His Creation. Now, in my mid-fifties, I am keenly aware that I am entering the last third of the years of my life.

Five years is not a long time for pathology training but it did provide a good foundation for my career. Eighty years seems like a  long time for a life but is it enough time to provide a foundation for your eternity? For nearly twenty years, I lived in darkness, openly defiant to God, even doubting His existence. But one day in 1982, Jesus Christ became my Lord and Savior. I am forever grateful that He saved me by His grace and mercy. It took twenty years. God has given most of us about eighty years to confess and repent of our sins and accept His Son, Jesus Christ, as Lord and Savior. Is eighty years a long time? When compared to an eternity spent in loving fellowship with God or an eternity spent in everlasting tormenting separation from God, it a twinkle of an eye.

God is patient with all of us and gives us a lifetime to come to Him. The question all of us need to answer for ourselves is this-is eighty years enough time?

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

"We Are Very Happy!" (Matthew 3:16-17)

My nephew, my sister’s son, is a very talented mechanic. He grew up watching and working alongside his father, also a mechanic, who owns a very successful auto repair shop in Hawaii. It was always expected that he would become a mechanic, but he has more than exceeded everyone’s expectations.

Many friends, upon learning of my nephew’s great talent and ambition, were elated and told my sister and her husband. “You must be so happy that your son is following in his father’s footsteps. Now you can pass on the business to him and he will take care of it!”

My sister and her husband are always beaming. “Yes, we are very happy!”

The family business remains in the family. A father passes along all his wisdom and experience to his own son. A son seeks to please his father by learning from him and taking care of his loyal customers. Any family would be very proud.

And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; and behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”

Matthew 3:16-17 (ESV)

God, the Father, declared how pleased He was with His Son, Jesus Christ, living a life of obedience in faith by being baptized. With this action, Jesus identified with all believers who place their trust in Him as their Lord and Savior. He also showed His obedience to follow the teachings of His Father. Jesus did on earth, what was done in Heaven. He always sought to do the things that pleased His Father. And He did this to take care of God’s creation-us.

We have our earthly family. But if you are believer in Jesus Christ, you also belong to the family of God and are a co-heir and adopted son or daughter of God. God loves us so much that He gave His only Son to die for our sins and be resurrected, to conquer death and give all believers eternal salvation, to all those who place their trust and faith in Him.

Like my sister and her husband's joy in seeing their son follow in his father’s footsteps, God is pleased when we follow in His Son’s Jesus’ footsteps and do the same things that He did when He was on this earth. What greater joy can we have than to hear God the Father say that He is proud of us?

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

Discouragement (Matthew 11:3)

Selected before birth to be a prophet.

Raised by a high priest.

A cousin of Jesus Christ.

He is John the Baptist!

The angel Gabriel, prophesied to John’s father, Zechariah, that John would go in the power and spirit of Elijah and turn hearts toward the Messiah.  John, himself, preached a baptism of repentance for forgiveness of sins. With all these credentials, expectations ran very high amongst the Jews for John and his teachings. Some even thought he was the Messiah. John certainly believed his mission. Yet, within a short period of time after he baptized Jesus Christ, John was imprisoned, his ministry seemingly at an end.  During this time, he asked his disciples to inquire of Jesus,

"Are you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?"

Matthew 11:3 (ESV)

Discouragement.

What do we do when circumstances do not appear to be going the way we planned? What do we do when all of our preparations seem to be wasted? What do we do when all of our training and credentials cannot help us?

This is Jesus’ answer to John, his disciples, and us.

And Jesus answered them, "Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind receive their sight and the lame walk, lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear, and the dead are raised up, and the poor have good news preached to them.  And blessed is the one who is not offended by me."

Matthew 11:4-6 (ESV)

In times of discouragement, Jesus instructs us with the following:

-Remember what He has done for us.

-Remember what God’s Word teaches and the promises He keeps.

-Look to serve others first.

-Forget about what you think you should be doing or what the world expects of you and focus upon God.

-All birthrights, credentials, titles, and prior accomplishments only have meaning if they point others to Jesus.

John was discouraged. He may not have understood why everything was happening to him. But He trusted God and proclaimed to his followers:

He must increase, but I must decrease.

John 3:30 (ESV)

What is cure for discouragement? Take your focus off yourself and look to Jesus Christ and His promises. Serve Him and others first.

He must increase and we must decrease.

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

My Volume Is Off (Proverbs 30:32-33)

All performing musicians need to coordinate their performance with the sound board. Whether a live performance or a recording, continual communication is necessary to ensure that there is proper balance between the performing musicians and what is being heard by the audience.

In my past, I have led and have been a member of many worship teams in many different churches. On one of these teams, an incident occurred that disturbed and confused me. During a rehearsal session, several of my fellow musicians were complaining that I was playing too loudly. I attempted to remedy the problem by having the person on the soundboard make adjustments. However, unlike previous rehearsal sessions, it was to no avail. Gradually I began to lower the volume on my guitar until I could barely hear it from my own amplifier, less than 3 feet away from me. I became increasingly frustrated. If my guitar volume were so low that I could barely hear myself, would my fellow musicians be able to hear? And then it struck me, perhaps this is what they wanted? I immediately dialed my volume down to off and proceeded to play, knowing that my guitar could not be heard. I then asked my fellow musicians, “Is that better?” They all nodded in approval.

I left the rehearsal hurt, questioning everyone’s motives. If they didn’t want me to play, they could have simply asked me to sit out. My imagination ran wild as different permutations swirled through my mind. Perhaps they could not hear me through their monitors? Perhaps they were embarrassed to confront me and tell me they did not want me to play? How could I make sense of this?

If you have been foolish in exalting yourself, Or if you have devised evil, put your hand on your mouth. For as the churning of milk produces butter, And wringing the nose produces blood,

So the forcing of wrath produces strife.

Proverbs 30:32-33 (NKJV)

Proverbs 30 is replete with lists which the writer, through the Holy Spirit’s inspiration, desired to communicate his wonder and bewilderment over what he observed in the world. He recounted seemingly contradictory or irrational behaviors, such as the way of man when he is courting a woman! (Nothing irrational about that behavior!) But his conclusion was completely rational. If we continue to revisit our hurts, allowing the fomenting of anger, it will only produce more strife.  

This passage comforted me as I attempted to understand why God allowed different types of behaviors and actions to affect me in the way they do. After much time in prayer, meditation, and reflection upon this, I realized that, once again, it is my pride that is hindering me and setting up barriers to sweet fellowship with my fellow brothers and sisters in Jesus Christ. This incident, like so many others, poignantly illustrates how I first need to satisfy my ego and look inward, rather than always thanking God and looking upward.

I am thankful for an opportunity to serve God with the musical gifts He has given me. However, if others do not appreciate these gifts in the way I think they should, it is a reflection of my fallen state and my selfish motives.  I should remain focused upon serving God in gratitude rather than attempting to appease myself or others.

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

Samurai (John 15:13)

I love studying about the Japanese samurai. Being of Japanese ancestry, one might assume that I would naturally be interested in samurai. However, there are many aspects of Japanese culture that hold no interest for me. What is it about the samurai that I find so appealing?

My martial arts background drew me to the swordplay and weaponry expertise. My fascination with history drew me to the complex tales of warfare strategy and intrigue. My love of art led me to explore their skills with poetry, calligraphy, and the tea ceremony. But it was the discipline and singled minded devotion to their lords that continues to appeal and impress me.

Samurai literally means to serve the nobility. For centuries, they were the warrior class that protected the nobility. Their fierce loyalty is legendary as depicted in numerous historical accounts, novels, and movies. Above all, a samurai swore absolute loyalty to their lord, willing to die for him. I always marveled at the bravery of these men with unquestioning loyalty to the death.

Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

John 15:13 (KJV)

Is my loyalty to my Lord Jesus as unwavering as the samurai to their lords? I would like to think so but more often than not, I fail. I do not always obey the commands of Jesus. I lack the discipline to continually pray without ceasing. Would I even die for another person-a lord, a friend....what about for a total stranger or for someone who hates me?

I would not make a good samurai. Am I a good Christian? I will never be good enough. This is why God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to live and die on the Cross and be resurrected. When I became a Christian, Jesus Christ became my Lord and Savior. He died for me so that I would be saved from my sins. He showed the greatest love and devotion to me, not His Lord, but to someone He calls His friend.

Lord Jesus, help me to become more like You.

Praise be to God for His love and mercy to me.

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.

The Worst That God Gives is Better Than What The World Has To Offer (Psalms 84:10)

For a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness.

Psalms 84:10 (ESV)-Sons of Korah

If this be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of your hand, O king. But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up.

Daniel 3:17-18 (ESV)-Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego

But Ruth said, "Do not urge me to leave you or to return from following you. For where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge.Your people shall be my people, and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there will I be buried. May the LORD do so to me and more also if anything but death parts me from you."

Ruth 1:16-17 (ESV)-Ruth

Though he slay me, I will hope in him...

Job 13:15 (ESV)-Job

Do I believe the worst that God gives is better than what the world has to offer?

These great Saints of the Bible believed it. They chose to believe God’s promises of a better life in eternity rather than compromise their faith and principles and follow the lies of the world. The entire Bible points is centered upon our Lord, Jesus Christ. He made the ultimate sacrifice on our behalf.

Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

Philippians 2:5-8 (ESV)

Jesus humbled Himself, far beyond anything we can think or comprehend, and became a man. He set aside His glory for our sake and lived and died so that He could take the penalty for our sins. God raised Him from the dead and through faith in Him, we have salvation.

This is the worst that God has ever given. And it is better than anything that has ever been offered by the world.

Won’t you accept promise of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.