Dr H Reflections

You Cannot Find Yourself if Nobody is There ∙∙

You Cannot Find Yourself if Nobody is There ∙∙

You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. – Jeremiah 29:13

Isaiah 55:6-9

Seek the LORD while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near.

Let the wicked forsake his way and the unrighteous man his thoughts and let him return to the LORD. And He will have compassion on him, and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” declares the LORD.

“For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.”

The Pursuit of Peace and Identity

Dr. Wayne W. Dyer, a renowned counseling psychologist and bestselling author, sagely asserted, “Peace is the result of retraining your mind to see life as it really is, rather than as you think it should be.” This notion of mental retraining holds significant practical importance, prompting a critical inquiry: What should we be conditioning our minds to accept and believe?

The search for identity and purpose is a fundamental human endeavor. Over millennia, individuals have sought to understand the essence of who they are and the meaning of their lives. Numerous solutions have emerged, predominantly centered on the self, which positions the individual at the core of existence. As Dyer articulates, “The idea of finding yourself simply means accessing your confidence, natural and potential abilities, sense of self-worth, self-reliance, and independence.”

A Divine Perspective on Identity

In contrast, the Father offers a very different view. In His kingdom, the focus shifts from discovering ourselves to discovering Him. When we encounter Him, we find our true identity as His beloved, adopted children. It is this relationship with the Father that helps us understand who we truly are.

Usually, two separate paths are presented for self-discovery and achieving inner peace.

Man’s Way: The Self-Help Movement

The first path is man’s way, often reflected in the self-help movement. This approach centers on transforming oneself into an idealized version of oneself. It suggests that through dedication and self-reflection, individuals can unlock their hidden potential and achieve extraordinary success. In some cases, this philosophy even claims that people can reach a level of enlightenment, equating their existence with that of divine beings.

The Father’s Way: Sanctification

The Father’s approach sharply contrasts. It does not emphasize the pursuit of becoming a better version of ourselves. Instead, we concentrate on recognizing and accepting our renewed identity in Christ. Through spiritual rebirth, we receive this new identity at the moment of salvation. This process is called sanctification. Sanctification involves discovering our new identity and living it out. As we do, we become more like Christ and experience more of what it means to be children of the King.

John Newton, the well-known author of the hymn “Amazing Grace,” powerfully illustrates this transformation. Newton’s life changed radically after he accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior and Lord. His words capture the deep inner change produced by the Father.

Amazing grace! How sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found; was blind, but now I see.

‘Twas grace that taught my heart to fear, and grace my fears relieved.
How precious did that grace appear the hour I first believed!

Newton’s profession of faith echoes the universal human experience of feeling adrift, lacking direction, and overwhelmed by hopelessness. His melodic musings emphasize that true transformation and inner peace stem not from self-help methods but from the grace of God.

The Universal Struggle

The feeling of being lost and lacking direction or purpose is a common thread in the human experience. How can someone truly discover themselves? The answer is in realizing that we can’t find ourselves when we are spiritually depleted and empty. It is through the transformative work of the Father in our lives that we can uncover our true identity and purpose.

REFLECT & PRAY

John F. Kennedy wisely asserted that, “Peace is a daily, a weekly, a monthly process, gradually changing opinions, slowly eroding old barriers, quietly building new structures.”

Father, thank You for seeking to transform the minds of each of Your children (Ephesians 4:23). You desire that we think Your thoughts and align our hearts with Your will.

INSIGHT

The Father’s Desire to Be Found

The Father is not playing a cosmic game of hide-and-seek with humanity. He sincerely desires to be found and actively invites people to seek Him. Through the prophet Isaiah, the Father calls out to each individual: Isaiah 55:6: “Seek the LORD while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near.”

The issue lies not with God, but with humanity itself. Many people deliberately turn away from the Father, choosing to run from Him rather than get closer. Despite the Father’s persistent, urgent call, they often find comfort in their rebellion. The window of opportunity is limited, and time is running out. The time to respond won’t last forever.

A Medieval Illustration of Urgency

Pause for a moment and imagine a medieval kingdom under siege, where the castle serves as a safe haven for its inhabitants. As enemies approach, warning horns or drums sound from the castle’s watchtowers, calling everyone to seek shelter. Timing is critical, as the drawbridge will soon be raised, the iron gate lowered, and the inner doors secured in preparation for the attack. Once closed, the castle becomes impenetrable, leaving those outside vulnerable to the invading forces.

Similarly, the Father’s kingdom offers mercy and protection, but individuals must act quickly and decisively. They need to change their way of thinking and living, abandon their selfish and evil ways, and return to the Father. His promise is clear: the Father will show compassion, forgive sins, and grant pardon. However, the choice to respond is up to each person.

A Promise of Discovery

A remarkable promise accompanies the Father’s invitation. Jeremiah 29:13-14: “If you will seek Me and search for Me with all your heart, you will find Me, says the LORD.”

This is a remarkable opportunity; however, there is a substantial disconnect between humanity and the Father. Isaiah’s words clarify the cause of this separation.

Father’s Higher Ways

Isaiah 55:8-9:

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” declares the LORD.
“For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.”

In the Book of Isaiah, the Father makes it clear why people must abandon their old ways and adopt His. Humanity’s thoughts and actions are fundamentally different from God’s. As Gary Smith explains, “The thoughts of an Almighty God who has created the world, controls the history of nations, and plans what will happen to each person have a world perspective that is beyond the realm of human comprehension.”

A Lifelong Transformation

Becoming part of God’s Forever Family requires a gradual inward transformation. As human beings, we are often constrained by our earthly perspectives and limitations. However, becoming children of the King launches us into a lifelong journey of personal and spiritual growth. This path challenges us to think in alignment with God’s thoughts and to adjust our ways to reflect His will voluntarily.

The Father’s call is more than just an invitation; it is a pathway to transformation that provides mercy, protection, and a new way of life for those who earnestly seek Him wholeheartedly.

True peace and identity are not discovered through self-serving pursuits but rather through the transformative grace of the Father. As we seek Him, we uncover our true selves and experience the enduring peace that only He can provide.

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Dependable Friendship ∙∙

Dependable Friendship ∙∙

A man with too many friends comes to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. – Proverbs 18:24

Proverbs 17:17 A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

Psalms 25:8-15

The LORD is good and does what is right; he shows the proper path to those who go astray.

He leads the humble in doing right, teaching them his way.

The LORD leads with unfailing love and faithfulness all who keep his covenant and obey his demands.

The LORD is a friend to those who fear him. He teaches them his covenant.

My eyes are always on the LORD, for he rescues me from the traps of my enemies.

The Journey of Friendship

In our youth, forming friendships often comes easily and naturally. However, as we get older, the process becomes more difficult. Life’s circumstances, such as physical distance or the passing of loved ones, can separate us from those we care about, making it harder to maintain or build meaningful connections.

What Makes a True Friend?

The qualities of a good friend are timeless and universal. Ann Landers beautifully described friendship as “love that has caught fire. It is quiet understanding, mutual confidence, sharing, and forgiving. It is loyalty through good and bad times. It settles for less than perfection and makes allowances for human weaknesses.”

Henri Nouwen further explores this idea, highlighting the emotional depth of true friendship: “When we honestly ask ourselves which person in our lives means the most to us, we often find that it is those who, instead of giving advice, solutions, or cures [Job’s friends], have chosen rather to share our pain and touch our wounds with a warm and tender hand. The friend who can be silent with us in a moment of despair or confusion, who can stay with us in an hour of grief and bereavement, who can tolerate not knowing, not curing, not healing, and face with us the reality of our powerlessness, that is a friend who cares.”

A true friend not only understands our struggles but loves us not despite our pain but because of it. They offer a safe space for vulnerability, providing comfort and support without judgment or expectation.

Friendship in the Bible

In Scripture, friendship is often portrayed as a relationship built on mutual trust, loyalty, and deep connection. Harper’s Bible Dictionary describes friendship as a bond of “mutual trust and congeniality,” exemplified by the profound relationship between David and Jonathan. 1 Samuel 18:1: “After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he loved him as himself.”

The Bible also emphasizes the special friendship we share with the Father God. Psalms 25 describes the Father as a reliable and faithful friend. He is a steady source of guidance, comfort, and wisdom. His loving kindness and faithfulness are the foundation of this divine friendship, which He begins and maintains.

God’s loyal love (hesed) embodies the Father’s personality. It is often translated as “kindness, mercy, or lovingkindness.” It is not merely a quality; it is the driving force behind who He is and how He engages with us.

REFLECT & PRAY

The Father represents the quintessential BFF, providing insight, compassion, and direction. Rather than condemning us for our past mistakes, He exemplifies mercy and forgiveness, granting us valuable opportunities for renewal and restoration.

Father, I am amazed and overjoyed that You have chosen me to be Your friend. Help me to draw closer to You each day and to cherish the bond we share. You are truly my best friend forever.

INSIGHT

The Joy of Reunion

Many of us have experienced the excitement of reuniting with friends at an airport after a long time apart. As we eagerly wait, scanning the crowd of disembarking passengers, the moment we finally see them fills us with joy. We rush to greet them, embracing them warmly. This mutual seeking and joyful reunion reflect the essence of true friendship, a bond where both parties actively seek and cherish one another.

Zacchaeus: A Divine Appointment

The story of Zacchaeus beautifully illustrates this concept of seeking and being sought. Zacchaeus, a tax collector, climbed a sycamore fig tree in Jericho, hoping to catch a glimpse of the Lord Jesus Christ as He passed by. Though Zacchaeus sought Jesus out of curiosity, it was the Lord Who was truly seeking him. Luke 19:10: “For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.”

In eternity past, the Father had ordained this divine appointment. On that specific day and hour, the Lord Jesus Christ came to Jericho with the purpose of bringing salvation to Zacchaeus and his household. This was not an isolated event; throughout history, the Lord has kept countless divine appointments.

These pivotal, eternally timed moments when the Father bursts into human history include experiences of salvation, miraculous healings, and resurrections, among others. Some examples are the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4), the healing of the man born blind (John 9), and the raising of Lazarus (John 11). For the children of the King, their first encounter with Him, which led to their salvation, has already occurred; many more may still lie ahead.

The Transformative Encounter

Zacchaeus was a tax collector, a job that made him despised and hated by his community. Known for extortion and overcharging, he was seen as a notorious sinner. Yet, this did not deter the Lord Jesus Christ. Luke 19:5: “When Jesus came by, he looked up at Zacchaeus and called him by name. ‘Zacchaeus!’ he said. ‘Quick, come down! I must be a guest in your home today.’”

Zacchaeus represented the very people Jesus came to save, the lost, the outcast, and the guilty. His words to Zacchaeus were not only an invitation but also a sign of recognition and love. This simple yet powerful interaction changed Zacchaeus’s life.

Barclay captures this transformation: “Zacchaeus was wealthy, but he was not happy. Inevitably, he was lonely, for he had chosen a way that made him an outcast. He had heard of this Jesus who welcomed tax collectors and sinners, and he wondered if he would have any word for him. Despised and hated by all, Zacchaeus was reaching after the love of God.”

A Life Changed

The encounter with Jesus led Zacchaeus to renounce his sinful ways and seek reconciliation immediately. Luke 19:8-9:

“Meanwhile, Zacchaeus stood before the Lord and said, ‘I will give half my wealth to the poor, Lord, and if I have cheated people on their taxes, I will give them back four times as much!’
Jesus responded, ‘Salvation has come to this home today, for this man has shown himself to be a true son of Abraham.’”

Zacchaeus’s transformation signified a public affirmation of his repentance and newfound faith. In this remarkable moment, Jesus publicly affirmed Zacchaeus’s salvation, announcing it to all who heard. This was not merely a personal triumph for Zacchaeus; it served as a powerful testament to the redemptive power of the Lord Jesus Christ’s love.

The Nature of Salvation

The salvation that the Father offers is not based on our worthiness or merit but on His own nature and goodness. As Stanley explains, “God saves us, not because He thinks we’re smart or worthy of His Son’s work on our behalf, but because of His own nature and goodness. He saves us for His name’s sake and for His glory.”

This truth is echoed in Romans 5:7-8:

“For one will hardly die for a righteous man, though perhaps for the good man someone would dare even to die.
But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”

The depth of God’s love is further emphasized in John 15:13-15:

“Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends.”
“No longer do I call you slaves, for the slave does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I have heard from My Father I have made known to you.”

The Great Exchange

The Father invites each of us to come to Him and exchange our old, burdensome way of life for the abundant life He offers. Matthew 11:28-30: “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.”

Through His love and grace, God offers us freedom from the weight of sin and the joy of a transformed life. Like Zacchaeus, we are called to respond to His invitation, embrace His love, and walk in the newness of life He provides.

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Meddling Busybodies ∙

Meddling Busybodies ∙

Meddling in someone else’s argument is as foolish as yanking a dog’s ears. – Proverbs 26:17

2 Thessalonians 3:11 We hear that some of you live idle lives, refusing to work and meddling in other people’s business.

The Nature of Busybodies

Busybodies are unwelcome advisors who repeatedly meddle in others’ affairs, often under the pretense of offering help. Their actions, though called “assistance,” are usually unsolicited, unwelcome, and ultimately unhelpful.This behavior frequently comes from dissatisfaction with their own lives, leading them to seek purpose or excitement by meddling in others’ lives.

Historical Perspectives on Idleness and Meddling

Throughout history, various cultures and thinkers have addressed the dangers of idleness and the tendency to meddle. The Romans observed, “By doing nothing, men learn to do evil.” Similarly, Isaac Watts famously wrote, “For Satan finds some mischief still, An idle mind is the devil’s workshop.”

Other proverbs and aphorisms echo this sentiment:

“Idleness is the thief of time.”
“The goat’s business is none of the sheep’s concern.”
“Busy souls have no time to be busybodies.”
“Nothing was more dangerous than people convinced of their own good intentions.”
“God save us from the people who want to do what’s best for us.”
“Those who torment us for our own good will torment us without end, for they do so with the approval of their own conscience.”

These sayings highlight the widespread recognition of the harm caused by meddling and the importance of respecting others’ autonomy.

The Fine Line Between Concern and Meddling

While showing concern or curiosity about others can be a natural way to demonstrate empathy and compassion, it becomes problematic when it becomes intrusive, repetitive, or unwanted behavior. Meddling often involves crossing boundaries, disregarding privacy, and breaking trust.

When private or personal information is shared without consent, it transforms private matters into public ones, breaking trust and damaging relationships. Respecting others’ boundaries is essential for fostering healthy interactions and maintaining mutual respect.

REFLECT & PRAY

As Charles Stanley reminds us, “The Christian life is not a nonstop parade of miracles and astonishing answers to prayer and extraordinary visions and angelic visitations. Much of it is low-key, tame, and ordinary. Yet a godly life will always be celebrated in heaven.”

Father, help me to be a faithful and sensible servant, focused on the work of Your Kingdom, so that I may be found diligent and prepared when the Lord Jesus Christ returns.

INSIGHT

The Disruption in Thessalonica

The message of the Second Coming caused an unusual and problematic situation in Thessalonica. Many Thessalonians, driven by their anticipation of Christ’s return, abandoned their daily work and gathered idly in groups, waiting for the event. This behavior disrupted everyday life and caused social unrest by ignoring their responsibilities and livelihoods.

2 Thessalonians 3:11: “For we hear that some among you are leading an undisciplined life, doing no work at all, but acting like busybodies.”

The issue was that they were not merely idle; they were also not working. That would have been problematic enough. Instead, they were actively meddling and engaging in intrusive, unnecessary activities.

The Nature of Busybodies

A busybody is an individual characterized by excessive curiosity and a tendency to interfere in the affairs of others. Such people frequently cross boundaries by inserting themselves into matters that are not their concern, displaying an unwelcome interest in the personal lives of those around them. They may ask intrusive questions, offer unsolicited advice, or get involved in situations where their input is neither necessary nor desired.

This meddlesome behavior, often accompanied by gossip, is profoundly harmful. It has the potential to create conflict, disrupt harmony, and fracture relationships.

A Greek Wordplay on Work and Meddling

The Greek language offers a rich wordplay that “emphasizes the distinction between productive labor and unnecessary interference.” The term ergazomairefers to the concepts of “working or exerting effort,” while periergazomaicombines peri(meaning “concerning”) with ergazomai, conveying the idea of “bustling about aimlessly or meddling.”

Paul’s admonition to the Thessalonians is encapsulated in the phrase, “not working at all, but being busybodies” (mēden ergazomenous alla periergazomenous). Various translations of this statement have been made, highlighting its nuanced meaning.

“Who do nothing but meddle in the affairs of others.”
“Those whose only business is to be a busybody” (D. H. Field).
“Not busy at work, but busybodies [at play]” (GELNT).
“Minding everybody’s business but their own.”
“Everywhere doing everything but doing nothing.”

The Consequences of Idleness

Paul also addressed similar behavior in his letter to Timothy. 1 Timothy 5:13: “They learn to be lazy and will spend their time gossiping from house to house, meddling in other people’s business, and talking about things they shouldn’t.”

As Guthrie explains, idleness produces two harmful outcomes: “There are two unpleasant fruits of this idleness. Those concerned gad about (going about from house to house) . . .. the second result – that they become gossips and busybodies, repeating in one house what they had heard in another . . .. publicizing of a private matter, a betrayal of confidence.”

Such behavior often has a profoundly detrimental impact on communities, eroding trust, straining close ties, and creating an environment of discord and suspicion.

Paul’s Practical Advice

To address this issue, Paul provided clear and practical guidance in 1 Thessalonians 4:11: “Make it your goal to live a quiet life, minding your own business and working with your hands, just as we instructed you before.”

The apostle Paul outlines a strategy for the Thessalonians, emphasizing that they should make it their goal to seek, as Fee describes, “consider it the honorable thing to do.” Paul encourages the Thessalonians to remain calm, realign their priorities, and dedicate themselves to meaningful and productive work. Instead of falling into laziness, they are called to lead peaceful lives and work hard.

Paul stresses that believing in the soon return of the Lord Jesus Christ is not an excuse to neglect daily duties but a motivation to deepen their commitment and purpose. A disciplined, hardworking lifestyle provides strong evidence of the vitality of the Christian faith.

The Testimony of a Godly Life

As Barclay aptly notes, “It is always true that ‘the greatest handicap the Church has is the unsatisfactory lives of professing Christians’ and equally true that the greatest argument for Christianity is a genuinely Christian life.”

Paul’s message continues to resonate today: a life of humble dedication, honoring others’ boundaries, and working faithfully is not only pleasing to God but also a powerful example to others.

The Lord Jesus Christ reminds us in Matthew 24:46: “It will be good for that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns.”

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The Power of Resurrection

The Power of Resurrection

Do not be afraid any longer; only believe. – Mark 5:36

Mark 5:22-42

Then came one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name, and seeing him, he fell at his feet.

While he was still speaking, some came from the ruler’s house who said, “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?”

But overhearing what they said, Jesus said to the ruler of the synagogue, “Do not fear, only believe.”

They came to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and Jesus saw a commotion, people weeping and wailing loudly. And when he had entered, he said to them, “Why are you making a commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but sleeping.”

And they laughed at him. But he put them all outside, took the child’s father and mother, and those who were with him, and went in where the child was.

Taking her by the hand, he said to her, “Talitha koum,” which means, “Little girl, I say to you, arise.” And immediately the girl got up and began walking (for she was twelve years of age), and they were immediately overcome with amazement.

The Reality of Cardiac Arrest

Cardiac arrest impacts nearly 600,000 people annually, with devastating outcomes. Of these, approximately 400,000 occur outside of hospitals, where the survival rate is less than 6 percent. Another 200,000 cases happen within hospitals, where the survival rate improves to 24 percent.

Every minute matters. The chances of survival decrease by 10 percent with each passing minute, making the time between the onset of cardiac arrest and the first chest compression absolutely critical.

God’s Sovereignty Over Time and Death

While timing is crucial in modern medical emergencies, it is not a limitation for the Father, the Lord God omnipotent. He reigns as the Lord of time, life, death, health, and recovery. For Him, time and death are not insurmountable barriers. They are no more than already vanquished tiny grains of sand. To the Father, death is no more than sleep, and one day, He will awaken all who rest in it. The Apostle Paul tells us in 1 Thessalonians 4:17: “After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.” The Apostle John adds in Revelation 20:11-12: “Then I saw a great White Throne and him who was seated on it. The earth and the heavens fled from his presence, and there was no place for them. And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened.”

Jairus and the Urgency of Time

When Jairus’s daughter was gravely ill and death was looming, Jairus sought the ultimate intervention. He approached the Lord Jesus Christ, pleading for Him to come and lay hands on her. In Mark 5:23, Jairus pleaded earnestly with him, ‘My little daughter is dying. Please come and put your hands on her so that she will be healed and live.’”

The Lord Jesus responded and accompanied Jairus to his home. From a human perspective, time was of the essence. He needed to arrive before it was “too late.”

A Divine Interruption

On the way, however, in Mark 5:25-34, a woman suffering from an incurable condition approached the Lord Jesus Christ in desperation. She reached out in faith, touching His garment, and was instantly healed. The Lord stopped, aware that power had gone out from Him, and sought the person who had been healed. When the woman came forward, He comforted her and affirmed her faith.

This moment of spiritual triage demonstrated the Lord’s priorities. From a human perspective, the terminal condition of Jairus’s daughter seemed far more urgent than the chronic illness of the woman. Yet the Lord Jesus Christ, not limited by human assumptions or urgency, acted according to the Father’s perfect will. The Father’s ways and thoughts are higher than ours, and the Lord Jesus Christ is always in direct communication with Him, receiving direction and guidance.

The News of Death

How much time passed during this delay? Mark does not specify. But soon, devastating news arrived: Jairus’s daughter had died. From a human standpoint, it was “too late.” Yet the Lord Jesus Christ did not waver. He continued on to Jairus’s home.

Jairus must have been overwhelmed with grief, but instead of offering immediate comfort, the Lord challenged him to faith. The Father always calls us to move away from fear and toward faith, no matter how dire the circumstances.

REFLECT & PRAY

The Father is in control over everything, including every person’s expiration date. It will occur right on time. We can trust Him to carry out His perfect will, even when circumstances seem impossible.

Father, in the face of overwhelming challenges, help me trust in Your perfect timing and walk in faith rather than fear.

INSIGHT

The Resurrection of Jairus’ Daughter

This miracle was not a resuscitation or healing; it was a true resurrection, that is, someone who had died, brought back to life. The little girl’s family and friends were under no illusion about her condition; they had already begun mourning, fully recognizing that her life had ended. However, to the Lord Jesus Christ, death, the separation of the soul from the body, was nothing more than sleep.

When Jesus boldly declared, Mark 5:39: “Why are you making a commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but sleeping,” the crowd responded with mocking laughter. Their unbelief dismissed His words as absurd. As Wiersbe aptly notes, “Unbelief laughs at God’s Word, but faith lays hold of it and experiences the power of God.”

A Tender Command: “Talitha Koum”

What unfolds next is one of the most vivid and poignant moments in Scripture. The original Aramaic words spoken by Jesus are preserved, highlighting their profound significance. Gently taking the little girl’s hand, Jesus uttered the words, “Talitha Koum.”

The term Talitha translates as “little girl,” “little lady,” or, more literally, “little lamb.” It is the feminine form of a word for “lamb” or “youth,” conveying “a sense of tenderness and endearment.” The word Koum is a command meaning “arise.”

Hughes pictures the scene as a moment of unmatched beauty and power: the tender yet commanding voice of the Lord Jesus Christ breaking through the stillness, reaching the little girl’s lifeless ears. Her eyes flutter open, and the first thing she sees is the compassionate face of Jesus, followed by the tearful, joy-filled faces of her parents and the astonished expressions of the apostles.

Faith Over Fear

In the face of devastating circumstances, Jairus faced a choice: faith or fear. When news of his daughter’s death reached him, his growing hope was abruptly extinguished. Mark 5:35-36: “While He was still speaking, they came from the house of the synagogue official, saying, ‘Your daughter has died; why trouble the Teacher anymore?’ But Jesus, overhearing what was being spoken, said to the synagogue official, ‘Do not be afraid any longer, only believe.’”

The horror and grief of that moment must have been overwhelming. Yet, Jesus immediately challenged Jairus to move beyond fear and embrace faith. His words, “Don’t be afraid; just believe,” rekindled Jairus’ hope and elevated his faith to a new level.

This moment is pivotal. Jairus initially approached Jesus with a simple, perhaps naive, belief that He could heal his daughter. But now, Jesus called him to a deeper faith, not just in His ability to heal but in His power to resurrect. As Hughes explains, “This was a radical call and a radical development of Jairus’ faith.”

Praying for healing in the face of illness is one thing, but standing over a lifeless body and believing in the possibility of resurrection is an entirely different act of faith. Jesus set the stage for a profound demonstration of His power over death, elevating Jairus’ faith to new heights.

The Astonishing Resurrection

When Jesus took the girl’s hand and commanded her to rise, the result was immediate. Mark 5:42: “Immediately, the girl got up and walked around. .. They were overwhelmed and totally amazed.”

The Greek word translated as “totally amazed” or “completely astonished” is existemi. This term conveys “a sense of bewildering astonishment,” literally meaning “they were out of their minds” (Constable).

This moment was truly incredible. As Hughes describes, “This was a proto-resurrection.” The gentle words and compassionate actions of the Lord Jesus Christ provide a glimpse into the future that awaits all children of the King. One day, the all-powerful and empathetic Lord Jesus Christ will call each child of the King to new life in resurrected bodies.

The Victory Over Death

The resurrection of Jairus’ daughter foreshadows the ultimate victory over death that Jesus secured for all who believe in Him. 1 Corinthians 15:57: “But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

This event powerfully reminds us of the hope and promise of resurrection life. The sting of death will be forever defeated, replaced by the eternal joy of being in the Lord’s presence.

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It Won’t Always Be This Way ∙∙

It Won’t Always Be This Way ∙∙

I tell you the truth, you will weep and mourn over what is going to happen to me, but the world will rejoice. You will grieve, but your grief will suddenly turn to wonderful joy. It will be like a woman suffering the pains of labor. When her child is born, her anguish gives way to joy because she has brought a new baby into the world. – John 16:20-21

Philippians 4:11-13

I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach.

A Jewish Understanding of Time

From the period of David to the New Testament, the Jewish perspective on time was characterized by a tripartite framework encompassing the past, the present, and the future. The past was defined as the age of the Fathers, which included significant patriarchs such as Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Moses. The Present, on the other hand, was framed by the era of the Prophets. These leaders not only drew upon the lessons of the past but also provided moral and spiritual guidance relevant to their contemporary society. Furthermore, the Prophets looked ahead, delivering profound, often specific prophetic insights regarding the future.

The Future, however, was the most anticipated age, the coming Kingdom of God on earth. This was the time when the long-awaited Messiah would reign on the throne of David, ushering in an era of peace, prosperity, and well-being.

The “Between-Time”: Waiting for the Messiah

The present age was a mix of both good and bad, but the future was envisioned as a golden age. The arrival of the Messiah would mark the start of this new era, establishing the Kingdom of God on earth. Until that time, the Jewish people face a difficult waiting period. In Jewish eschatology, found in the Talmud (Sanhedrin 98a), it is expressed in the phrase “The birth travail of the days of the Messiah,” or “Messianic birth pangs.” This phrase reflects the struggle and hope during the “between-time,” a tough period before God’s promises are fulfilled.

The Analogy of Childbirth: Pain Transformed into Joy

Jesus provides a deeper understanding of the metaphor of birth and labor. He notes that while the pain and struggle of childbirth are profound and consuming, once the baby is born, the anguish gives way to great and lasting joy.

John 16:20-22

“I tell you the truth, you will weep and mourn over what is going to happen to me, but the world will rejoice. You will grieve, but your grief will suddenly turn to wonderful joy. It will be like a woman suffering the pains of labor. When her child is born, her anguish gives way to joy because she has brought a new baby into the world. So you have sorrow now, but I will see you again; then you will rejoice, and no one can rob you of that joy.”

Suffering Repurposed for Greater Joy

This transition from suffering to joy serves as a compelling metaphor for children of the King. Instead of removing suffering, the Father repurposes it, allowing it to increase the joy that comes afterward. Just as the pain of childbirth heightens a mother’s joy when her baby is born, the disciples’ sorrow will make their eventual joy greater when they see the risen Christ.

God’s Principle of Transformation

The Father brings joy through transformation. Instead of changing our circumstances, He uses our circumstances to transform us. The Lord Jesus Christ prepares His disciples for the deep sense of loss they will feel when He departs to return to the Father. He recognizes the intense sadness and grief they will endure, but assures them that this sorrow will eventually be turned into a joy so profound that it can never be taken away.

REFLECT & PRAY

Wiersbe makes the sagacious observation that “Prosperity has done more damage to believers than has adversity.”

Father, thank You for being willing to teach me the art and skill of contentment. When You bring difficult circumstances and people into my life, I have learned to ask, “What would You have me learn from this?” I no longer ask why. Thank You for taking me this far. My life is Yours. What would You have Your servant do?

INSIGHT

The Struggle for Contentment: A Universal Challenge

Life is a constant ebb and flow of experiences, marked by both joy and hardship. It is a continual cycle characterized by ups and downs. During tough times, it’s important to remember that challenges are temporary and will pass. Conversely, in moments of happiness and joy, it’s equally vital to cherish them, as they are fleeting.

Contentment is not an innate trait of humans. Instead, discontentment, negativity, and complaining tend to come naturally. True contentment is a rare and learned virtue, not something that comes easily to anyone. For some, the excitement of taking risks and exploring new opportunities provides an adrenaline rush, while others withdraw into solitude, mistaking it for contentment.

Job 5:7 “For man is born for trouble, as sparks fly upward.”

Many believe that changing their circumstances will lead to contentment. However, this is a shallow and immature perspective. The Apostle Paul offers a deeper understanding of contentment, one that transcends external conditions.

Paul’s Journey to Contentment

Paul’s words in Philippians 4:11-12 reveal the depth of his experience:

“I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little.”

Hansen provides a more nuanced translation of Philippians 4:11 that highlights the contrast Paul presents: “I know both how to be humbled, and I know how to prosper.”

Paul’s life was a study in extremes. At times, he had everything; at others, he had nothing. Yet, he emphasizes that contentment was not something he naturally possessed. It was something he learned. Life became his classroom, and the Father his teacher. Through a series of trials and blessings, Paul learned to navigate both the highs and lows of life.

The Transformation of Reactions

What ultimately set Paul apart was not his circumstances but how he responded to them. At first, like many others, he depended on his personal strength, intellect, and determination. But over time, he learned to place his complete trust in the Father. This shift in reliance brought him a deep sense of peace and serenity.

Paul’s journey was filled with challenges, similar to midterms and finals in the school of life. Through these trials, contentment grew from a fleeting feeling into a core part of his character. As Constable notes, “The quality of contentment eventually became an essential attribute of his character.”

The Source of True Contentment

Paul’s sense of contentment was not contingent upon his material well-being or physical situation. Instead, it was rooted in a transformative relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. This connection gave him a deep sense of peace, strength, and resilience that surpassed any external circumstances. He captures this profound truth with this compelling statement: Philippians 4:13 “For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.”

Paul’s ability to stay content in every situation, whether in poverty or prosperity, hunger or abundance. was rooted in the strength he drew from the Lord Jesus Christ. This strength enabled him to face life’s extremes without worry, with the peace of God protecting his heart and mind.

As Hansen explains, Paul’s peace and contentment were not the result of favorable circumstances but of the unshakable presence of Christ in his life. This peace, described in Philippians 4:6-7, guarded his heart and mind, allowing him to face life’s challenges with unwavering confidence and serenity.

The Father teaches children of the King the art of contentment, not by removing challenges but by turning them into opportunities for growth. In many ways, hardship can be a refining process, while prosperity can be a test of character. Both require wisdom and perspective to navigate successfully. He molds His children, providing lessons that deepen faith and trust in Him.

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