A Few Thoughts About Frustration

Definition

B1 Frustration

C1 Source #1: in connection with attempts to do something, to cause disappointment, anger, or confusion in (a person). (Source)

C2 Source #2: The act of preventing the accomplishment or fulfillment of something: (Source)

C3 Frustration

In psychology, frustration is a common emotional response to opposition, related to anger, annoyance and disappointment, frustration arises from the perceived resistance to the fulfillment of an individual's will or goal and is likely to increase when a will or goal is denied or blocked. There are two types of frustration; internal and external. Internal frustration may arise from challenges in fulfilling personal goals, desires, instinctual drives and needs, or dealing with perceived deficiencies, such as a lack of confidence or fear of social situations. Conflict, such as when one has competing goals that interfere with one another, can also be an internal source of frustration and can create cognitive dissonance.—Wikipedia

B2 Sources of frustration (my opinion)

C1 Time

D1 Something must be completed in a time frame, for example, you need to meet someone at a certain time. Things happen that prevent it being meeting that person.

D2 You are writing an article, coding, or doing a procedure. It must be completed at a certain time. Something happens preventing its completion.

C2 Goal

D1 A goal must be met, but something happens to delay or cancel the goal.

D2 Example,

E1 We need to arrive at a destination. We get a flat tire. The airline’s computer system crashes. Weather delays. An accident. Some other unforeseen event.

E2 We need to finish a repair. A certain tool is needed but cannot be found.

D3 Example #2

E1 We have completed a project or procedure.

E2 The next day, we test it; it fails to work. It worked yesterday, but today it does not.

Dealing with frustration

B1 Any problem we might have needs to start with truth. There has to be an acknowledgment of the issue. So, it needs to be admitted, “Yes, I get frustrated too quickly.”

B2 Walk away for a few minutes to calm down. Most things do not have to have an instant fix, repair, result, etc.

B3 Plan ahead. I need to tell myself that this will take longer than I think, or I know I need to finish this, but something is going to happen.

B4 If things are calm at the moment, work on the problem. Don’t procrastinate.

B5 Deliberately, don’t rush. Be steady.

B6 Concentrate. Don’t be doing 2 things at once.

B7 Have the attitude that things do happen to delay a finish. Proverbs 22:3 GW Sensible people foresee trouble and hide from it, but gullible people go ahead and suffer the consequence.

B8 If there is no need to rush, don’t.

B9 I pray for God to inoculate me, that is, for God to give little frustrations, help me to recognize it, and deal with it correctly with His grace.

B10 We may be frustrated but God is the deliverer: Psalm 107:28-29 NET They cried out to the LORD in their distress; he delivered them from their troubles. 29 He calmed the storm, and the waves grew silent.

Romans 15:13 NET Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you believe in him, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

A Few Thoughts About "Nearer My God To Thee"

Lyrics:

Nearer, my God, to Thee, nearer to Thee!

E'en though it be a cross that raiseth me

Still all my song would be nearer, my God, to Thee,

Nearer, my God, to Thee, nearer to Thee!

Though like the wanderer, the sun gone down,

Darkness be over me, my rest a stone

Yet in my dreams I'd be nearer, my God, to Thee,

Nearer, my God, to Thee, nearer to Thee!

There let the way appear steps unto heav'n

All that Thou sendest me in mercy giv'n

Angels to beckon me nearer, my God, to Thee,

Nearer, my God, to Thee, nearer to Thee!

Then with my waking thoughts bright with Thy praise,

Out of my stony griefs Bethel I'll raise

So by my woes to be nearer, my God, to Thee,

Nearer, my God, to Thee, nearer to Thee!

Or if on joyful wing, cleaving the sky,

Sun, moon, and stars forgot, upwards I fly,

Still all my song shall be, nearer, my God, to Thee,

Nearer, my God, to Thee, nearer to Thee!

History:

Among many, I found this short description of the hymn:

Sarah Flower Adams was a British actress who received praise for her performance in an 1837 production of Shakespeare’s Macbeth. After health problems disrupted her plans to continue with theater, she found comfort in writing poems and hymns.

Her most notable hymn, “Nearer, My God, to Thee,” came about in 1841 when Adam’s pastor was looking for a hymn for the following week’s sermon on Genesis 28:11-19, which is referred to by many as “Jacob’s ladder,” or “Jacob’s dream.” Adams offered to write the hymn and completed it within a week to go along with the pastor’s sermon. The hymn was originally set to music written by her sister, Eliza Flower, but another hymn-tune called “BETHANY,” written by Lowell Mason in 1856, has become most widely recognized and is most familiar to listeners today. (Source, warning it is a Mormon site).

Performed by Jean Watson

Nearer, My God To Thee (youtube)

A few thoughts

B1 The poem concerns Jacob and is written in Genesis 28:10-22.

B2 Jacob had problems with Esau, his brother, who wanted to kill him. Jacob had been sent away from home to go to his relatives.

B3 He stopped at Bethel at night to sleep.

B4 He had a dream. God was giving Jacob a message, which was recorded for us in Genesis 28:13-15.

B5 It was so life changing that Jacob made a vow (Genesis 28:20-22), which he did fulfill (Genesis 35:7).

B6 Times may be sad, even heartbreaking, but God is aware and still taking care of us. His promises are sure.

C1 John 16:33 NIV "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

C2 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NIV Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.

C3 Matthew 28:20 NIV and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

C4 Luke 6:21 NIV Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied. Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh.

C5 James 1:12 NET Happy is the one who endures testing, because when he has proven to be genuine, he will receive the crown of life that God promised to those who love him.

C6 Psalm 23:4 NET Even when I must walk through the darkest valley, I fear no danger, for you are with me; your rod and your staff reassure me.

C7 Luke 4:18 NKJV The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me, Because He has anointed Me To preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives And recovery of sight to the blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed.

A Few Thoughts About Jesus's Tone of Voice

Proverbs 15:1 NIV A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

Tone of voice: we can understand what is being said by the words, the tone, and the speed. The same words can be said a number of different ways of expressing our thoughts as anger, a question, love, baby talk, monotone, bossy, irritation,etc. Even the words, “I love you,” can be conveyed different ways. If it is loud, forceful, angry, it conveys a different meaning than saying it in soft, musical tones. Body language adds emphasis to the message as well.

What tone of voice seems most reasonable when the Lord Jesus addressed some religious leaders?

B1 Passages

C1 Luke 11:37-42, 46 NIV When Jesus had finished speaking, a Pharisee invited him to eat with him; so he went in and reclined at the table. 38 But the Pharisee was surprised when he noticed that Jesus did not first wash before the meal. 39 Then the Lord said to him, "Now then, you Pharisees clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside you are full of greed and wickedness. 40 You foolish people! Did not the one who made the outside make the inside also? 41 But now as for what is inside you—be generous to the poor, and everything will be clean for you. 42 "Woe to you Pharisees, because you give God a tenth of your mint, rue and all other kinds of garden herbs, but you neglect justice and the love of God. You should have practiced the latter without leaving the former undone. ... 46 Jesus replied, "And you experts in the law, woe to you, because you load people down with burdens they can hardly carry, and you yourselves will not lift one finger to help them

C2 Matthew 23:33 WEL You serpents, you generation of vipers. How can you escape the damnation of Gehenna? (Note Gehenna is the place of eternal conscious torment of body and soul).

B2 If the Lord Jesus said it in a rough, harsh tone, it conveys a different meaning than if He spoke it in a matter-of-fact tone.

B3 Personally, I would understand the Lord to be speaking it in a matter-of-fact tone to convict their hearts and warning them what is going to happen to them. A rough tone would be condemning and push them further away from any repentance.

What tone of voice should we use in confronting evil people, evil actions, evil attitudes, etc.?

B1 Typically, a harsh, condemning tone of voice will cause a reaction in people to avoid us and do the opposite of what we said. It pushes us away instead of towards. If one does give in, it seems it would not be complied with from conviction and agreement but rather from fear of the speaker’s bullying.

B2 The quiet voice of conviction will motivate much more.

B3 Our goal is not to have a reaction of rejection but a reaction of change. We don’t want to have them sear their conscious because we are harsh. 2 Timothy 2:25 NLT Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people's hearts, and they will learn the truth.

Some verses on harsh speech

B1 We Christians are not to give insulting speech and not to return insulting speech to those who insult us: 1 Peter 3:9 NLT Don't repay evil for evil. Don't retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do, and he will bless you for it.

C1 The Greek word for insult is λοιδορία loidoría.

D1 It means to reproach, insult, slander, railing. It can be verbal, written, or other ways.

D2 Railing means: to utter bitter complaint or vehement denunciation (often followed by at or against): (Source)

C2 Example of the Lord Jesus: 1 Peter 2:23 CSB when he was insulted, he did not insult in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten but entrusted himself to the one who judges justly. (Note insulted is the Greek word ἀντιλοιδορέω antiloidoréō and is based on the same word as in 1 Peter 3:9).

B2 Proverbs 12:16 NET A fool's annoyance is known at once, but the prudent overlooks an insult.

B3 1 Corinthians 4:12 NIV We work hard with our own hands. When we are cursed, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it

Some Bible verses about speech

B1 Colossians 4:6 CSB Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you should answer each person.

B2 Proverbs 10:32 CSB The lips of the righteous know what is appropriate, but the mouth of the wicked, only what is perverse.

B3 Proverbs 12:18-19 NLT Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing. 19 Truthful words stand the test of time, but lies are soon exposed.

B4 Ephesians 4:29 NLT Don't use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.

Some examples of people in the Bible

B1 Positive examples:

C1 Daniel 2:14-15 CSB Then Daniel responded with tact and discretion to Arioch, the captain of the king's guard, who had gone out to execute the wise men of Babylon. 15 He asked Arioch, the king's officer, "Why is the decree from the king so harsh? " Then Arioch explained the situation to Daniel.

C2 Paul and his team: 1 Corinthians 4:12-13 CSB we labor, working with our own hands. When we are reviled, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it; 13 when we are slandered, we respond graciously. Even now, we are like the scum of the earth, like everyone's garbage.

C3 Paul: Romans 15:18 RSV For I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has wrought through me to win obedience from the Gentiles, by word and deed,

B2 Negative examples:

C1 King Rehoboam lost the kingdom: 1 Kings 12:13 NLT But Rehoboam spoke harshly to the people, for he rejected the advice of the older counselors

C2 The Lord Jesus rebuked those who insulted Mary: Mark 14:3-5 NLT Meanwhile, Jesus was in Bethany at the home of Simon, a man who had previously had leprosy. While he was eating, a woman came in with a beautiful alabaster jar of expensive perfume made from essence of nard. She broke open the jar and poured the perfume over his head. 4 Some of those at the table were indignant. "Why waste such expensive perfume?" they asked. 5 "It could have been sold for a year's wages and the money given to the poor!" So they scolded her harshly.

C3 Beware of this person!!! Psalm 28:3 NLT Do not drag me away with the wicked—with those who do evil—those who speak friendly words to their neighbors while planning evil in their hearts.

I have made many errors regarding this. God has many times chastened me, and I praise Him for it. With God’s help, we all can speak in the manner and tone as our Lord Jesus did. He spoke the truth, but He did not so with harshness, insults, or slander.

A Few Thoughts About Worry

Sorry for the long post. It seemed best to have it in one article instead of 2 parts.

I heard an online sermon the other day where it was stated, “If you worry, it means you are not trusting God. It means you are proud...”

Is worry pride? Is worrying being prideful?

Definitions:

B1 Pride:

C1 Definition 1 (Source)

D1 Definition of worry (Entry 2 of 2)

1a: mental distress or agitation resulting from concern usually for something impending or anticipated : ANXIETY

b: an instance or occurrence of such distress or agitation

2: a cause of worry : TROUBLE, DIFFICULTY

D2 Synonyms: Noun

CARE, CONCERN, SOLICITUDE, ANXIETY, WORRY mean a troubled or engrossed state of mind or the thing that causes this. CARE implies oppression of the mind weighed down by responsibility or disquieted by apprehension. a face worn by years of care CONCERN implies a troubled state of mind because of personal interest, relation, or affection. crimes caused concern in the neighborhood SOLICITUDE implies great concern and connotes either thoughtful or hovering attentiveness toward another. acted with typical maternal solicitude ANXIETY stresses anguished uncertainty or fear of misfortune or failure. plagued by anxiety and self-doubt WORRY suggests fretting over matters that may or may not be real cause for anxiety. financial worries

C2 Definition 2: to think about problems or unpleasant things that make you anxious, or to make someone feel anxious (Source)

Quotes

B1 Evidently believing that worry is a sin is quite common

B2 Consider those who teach that worry is a sin. One quote is enough; there are more online. In its purest and most honest form, we are to take worry for what it really is - a deadly sin. Why is worry a sin? At the deep core of worry is really a sinful mistrust towards the things of God and an idolatry of the self. When we worry, what we are really saying is "God's taking too long to deliver" or "He's apparently not good enough to meet my demands." This leads us to the thinking that because God can't, we need to look for other ways to get things done either on our own or through a functional savior or idol who replaces Jesus as our way to promises fulfilled. (Source)

B3 I’m not quite sure what he means by deadly. Loss of salvation? God’s wrath?

B4 Instead, worry is not a sin but can be harmful. We need to get help, not criticize. The words above are, in my opinion, abusive.

C1 Quote 1: (Source) A Billy Graham answer:

Even though it's not a sin to live in chronic worry and fear, it's not what God wants for people, says world renowned evangelist the Rev. Billy Graham.

On Thursday, Graham gave biblical advice to a self-identified perpetual worrier who asked: "Is it a sin to worry about the future and all the bad things that might happen to me and my family (as well as the world)? I admit I'm a worrier, but what's really wrong with that?"

Graham responded that while it's "not necessarily wrong" to have concerns about the future, excessive worrying is unhealthy both spiritually and physically.

C2 Is worry identified as sin?

D1 Where in the Old Testament is worry, anxiety, fretting, etc. listed as a sin? Here is one list of the 613 Old Testament laws. Worry is not listed.

Bible worriers

B1 Consider King David, Job, Elijah, Naomi, and Solomon. All had depression, worries, etc. They are not condemned for worrying. One article on this topic.

B2 Paul: 2 Corinthians 11:28 NET Apart from other things, there is the daily pressure on me of my anxious concern for all the churches.

B3 Hebrews 11, are there any worriers in the hall of faith? I’m sure there was. Abraham worried about having a son, etc. Go through the list. Our fellow believers had problems, worries, concerns, difficulties, afflictions, torture just like believers today.

B4 The Lord Jesus, God the Son: John 12:27 NLT Now my soul is deeply troubled. Should I pray, 'Father, save me from this hour'? But this is the very reason I came!

C1 Deeply troubled is the Greek word ταράσσω tarássō.

C2 It means (to quote Thayer):

ταράσσω; imperfect ἐτάρασσόν; 1 aorist ἐταραξα; passive, present imperative 3 person singular ταρασσέσθω; imperfect ἐταρασσομην; perfect τεταραγμαι; 1 aorist ἐταράχθην; from Homer down; to agitate, trouble (a thing, by the movement of its parts to and fro);

a. properly: τό ὕδωρ, John 5:4 (R L),7 (Ezekiel 32:2; τόν Πόντον, Homer, Odyssey 5, 291; τό πέλαγος, Euripides, Tro. 88; τόν ποταμόν, Aesop fab. 87 (25)).

b. tropically, "to cause one inward commotion, take away his calmness of mind, disturb his equanimity; to disquiet, make restless" (the Sept. for בִּהֵל, etc.; passive, ταράσσομαι for רָגַז, to be stirred up, irritated);

α. to stir up: τόν ὄχλον, Acts 17:8; (τούς ὄχλους, Acts 17:13 L T Tr WH).

β. to trouble: τινα, to strike one's spirit with fear or dread, passive, Matthew 2:3; Matthew 14:26; Mark 6:50; Luke 1:12; (Luke 24:38); 1 Peter 3:14; παράσσεται ἡ καρδία, John 14:1, 27; to affect with great pain or sorrow: ἑαυτόν (cf. our to trouble oneself), John 11:33 (A. V. was troubled (some understand the word here of bodily agitation)) (σεαυτόν μή ταρασσε, Antoninus 4, 26); τετάρακται ἡ ψυχή, John 12:27 (Psalm 6:4); ἐταράχθη τῷ πνεύματι, John 13:21.

γ. to render anxious or distressed, to perplex the mind of one by suggesting scruples or doubts (Xenophon, mem. 2, 6, 17): Galatians 1:7; Galatians 5:10; τιναλόγοις, Acts 15:24. (Compare: διαπαράσσω, ἐκπαράσσω.)

C3 This Greek word is also used in these verses:

D1 John 13:21 NLT Now Jesus was deeply troubled, and he exclaimed, "I tell you the truth, one of you will betray me!"

D2 John 14:1, 27 NLT "Don't let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. ... 27 "I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don't be troubled or afraid.

B5 You might to read Matthew 26 and Mark 14

Bible words for worry and anxiety

B1 Hebrew

C1 דְּאָגָה dᵉʼâgâh is the Hebrew word for anxious care.

D1 Proverbs 12:25 NIV Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.

D2 There is no indication that this is a sin but rather an unpleasant condition. A kind word can cheer a person. Blasting them with accusatory words announcing they are evil sinners only abuses them.

C2 שַׂרְעַף sarʻaph is another word and is used 2 times in the Old Testament.

D1 Psalm 94:19 NIV When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.

D2 Psalm 139:23 NIV Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. The Psalmist is extolling God for His omnipresence. The Psalmist thanks God for that. Then the Psalmist mentions how he hates those who do evil. After writing about this, he is worried that he might be like them himself and so asks God to reveal any secret sins. Worry is not the sin.

D3 There is no condemnation of worry. Comfort and concern are offered.

B2 Greek

C1 The Greek word μεριμνάω merimnáō means

D1 a. to be anxious; to be troubled with cares: absolutely, Matthew 6:27, 31; Luke 12:25; μηδέν μεριμνᾶτε, be anxious about nothing, Philippians 4:6; with the dative of the thing for the interests of which one is solicitous (cf. Winer's Grammar, § 31, 1 b.): τῇ ψυχή, about sustaining life, τῷ σώματι, Matthew 6:25; Luke 12:22; περί τίνος, about a thing, Matthew 6:28; Luke 12:26; εἰς τήν αὔριον, for the morrow, i. e. about what may be on the morrow, Matthew 6:34; followed by an indirect question πῶς ἤ τί, Matthew 10:19; Luke 12:11 (here Tr marginal reading omits; Tr text WH brackets ἤ τί); joined with τυρβάζεσθαι (θορυβάζεσθαι) followed by περί πολλά, Luke 10:41 (WH marginal reading omits)

D2 In none of these passages is sin implied. It does state that it is unhealthy and potentially harmful but not sinful.

D3 It appears from the message of the Lord Jesus in Matthew 6:27, Matthew 6:31, and Luke 12:25 that He is concerned about them and encouraging them and helping them. The same attitude is present when the Lord Jesus speaks in Matthew 10:17-20. We also we read about Martha: Luke 10:41-42 CSB The Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, 42 "but one thing is necessary. Mary has made the right choice, and it will not be taken away from her." There is no implication that He is accusing them of sinning. He is concerned for her distress.

D4 The same can be mentioned of the Apostle Paul in Philippians 4:6-7.

C2 The Greek word μέριμνα mérimna which mean much the same as above.

D1 The Apostle Peter offers comforting and encouraging words, not harsh and judgmental statements to indicate that they are sinning. 1 Peter 5:7 NLT Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.

D2 With sorrow, the Lord Jesus mentions in the Parable of the Sower that worries can distract a person from the important concerns of salvation, sin, and eternity. Luke 8:14 CSB As for the seed that fell among thorns, these are the ones who, when they have heard, go on their way and are choked with worries, riches, and pleasures of life, and produce no mature fruit.

D3 The Apostle Paul expressed worry concern about the churches. This is the same word. It is NEVER indicated that this is sin. 2 Corinthians 11:28 NET Apart from other things, there is the daily pressure on me of my anxious concern for all the churches.

Legitimate worries

B1 Conviction by God of our sin. This worry is intended to lead us to repentance, forgiveness, and placing faith into Jesus as Messiah. In this sense, worry is good.

B2 Protection.

C1 Here is a summary of one man. It is written in my words. A man was painting houses in the summers between college classes. He was often painting on the second story of the building. It was a high wind area. More than once the ladder was blown away from the house. He confesses that worry kept him alert to the possibility of falling. Thus, it was protective.

C2 Another example I heard: A man was the head of the maintainence department. One day he was supervising a crew repairing a building’s roof. He did not pay attention as he backed up to visually assess what work need to be accomplished that day, fell down a few stories, landed wrong, and died. Worry would have helped him to be alert. He had so many years in maintainence that he became overconfident.

B3 Protective: any dangerous situation a person/s face. It keeps one alert to danger.

B4 Protective: a victim of abuse and/or molestation might have worry if certain situations triggering worry/anxiety. This would tend to make them more alert and prevent being taken advantage of again.

Medical conditions causing anxiety

B1 Note that the medical diagnosis of anxiety is somewhat different to worry, but uncontrollable worry is one sign.

B2 7 Underlying Health Problems that Could Be Causing Your Anxiety by Amy Myers MD

B3 Abuse can cause worrying and anxiety. It is medical not sin. The Link Between Verbal Abuse and Anxiety That No One Talks about

B4 How PTSD and Emotions Like Worry Are Connected

A good quote:

Sin requires an immoral action, sufficient knowledge, and sufficient consent. To the extent that it keeps us legitimately concerned about the welfare of ourselves or others, it is not an immoral action to worry. Even in cases of needless worry, most worriers do not purposely worry despite knowledge that they should not. Indeed, in some cases, excessive, compulsive worry may be a symptom of a legitimate illness, and therefore not a sin.(Source)

Some goals for us

B1 Telling people they are sinning because they are worrying or anxious is abusive. They are told, “If you worry, you are not trusting God. You are proud. Repent.” This is abusive. It makes them worry even more. Remember the words of the Lord Jesus that what standard we use to judge will be used on us.

Matthew 7:1-5 NLT "Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. 2 For you will be treated as you treat others. The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged. 3 "And why worry about a speck in your friend's eye when you have a log in your own? 4 How can you think of saying to your friend, 'Let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,' when you can't see past the log in your own eye? 5 Hypocrite! First get rid of the log in your own eye; then you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend's eye.

B2 People need to stop being abusive.

B3 We need to help each other.

B4 We all worry.

B5 Listen instead of criticize.

B6 Believe them. To not believe them is to increase their worry and anxiety.

B7 If a crime has been committed, then law enforcement MUST be contacted.

B8 Offer empathy and help. If we offer help, we better be serious about helping.

B9 Pray

B10 Direct them to professional counseling.

B11 Help them find a Christian support group.

Haven’t we all felt this way sometime or the other?

Psalm 13:1-6 NLT For the choir director: A psalm of David. O LORD, how long will you forget me? Forever? How long will you look the other way? 2 How long must I struggle with anguish in my soul, with sorrow in my heart every day? How long will my enemy have the upper hand? 3 Turn and answer me, O LORD my God! Restore the sparkle to my eyes, or I will die. 4 Don't let my enemies gloat, saying, "We have defeated him!" Don't let them rejoice at my downfall. 5 But I trust in your unfailing love. I will rejoice because you have rescued me. 6 I will sing to the LORD because he is good to me.

1 Year Through the Bible Series—Romans Part F

C1 Chapter 12

D1 Romans 12 begins with an appeal for us to give our life in thoughts, desires, words, and deeds under Jesus’s rules and lifestyle for us. Most of this chapter and the following give us these rules.

E1 Romans 12:1 PickNT Now then, brothers, I exhort you, in view of God's compassions, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy, satisfying to God—your intelligent duty.

E2 Pickering comments on this verse: Any animal in the Old Testament had to die in order to become a sacrifice, so what does Paul mean by a 'living' one? In 1Co 15:31 he said that he died every day. Paul could not have been referring to actual physical death, obviously, since Heb 9:27 affirms that it is appointed to men to die only once (no re-incarnation). He may well have faced possible death often enough, but I suppose he is referring to dying to himself. I suppose this is also the meaning of our Lord's words in Luke 9:23-24—"If anyone desires to come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it." In that day a cross was an instrument of death. We must die to our own will in order to embrace God's. To present the body is presumably a metonym for presenting one's whole self.

D2 Romans 12:3-8

E1 This deals with the gifts of grace for believers to serve God in ministering to others especially to the brothers and sisters.

E2 These gifts are prophecy, ministry, teaching, exhortation, giving, leadership, and compassion. As others have pointed out this is the division of labor in the body of believers. These are broad areas covering primarily the needs of the congregation and also for preaching the Gospel.

F1 Prophecy for foretelling (rarely) and giving a message to believers, which is effective and motivating messages. The message is blessed by God for service. Prophecy is for 1 Corinthians 14:3 WEL But he who prophesies speaks to people for edification, exhortation, and comfort.

G1 Edification to build up the knowledge, wisdom, and actions of believers.

G2 Exhortation to encourage and help in knowledge, wisdom, and actions of believers.

G3 Comfort to lessen anxiety and unrest in believers.

F2 There is time to speak of the other gifts but they are more easily understood by most people.

D3 Romans 12:9-21 are a list of some of the rules all Christians are to live by. Let us take heed. We can obey with the strength God gives us.

C2 Chapter 13

D1 Romans 13:1-7 deals with our relation and obligations to the government. We need to respect leaders and to pray For them. That God would give them wisdom, so that the country may live in peace and safety and that the believers may be allowed to live as Christians. 1 Timothy 2:1-4 NRSV First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, 2 for kings and all who are in high positions, so that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and dignity. 3 This is right and is acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

D2 Romans 13:8-10 deals with our relation and obligations to our neighbor.

E1 Our neighbor, as far as Scripture is concerned, refers to anyone we meet. Luke 10:29, 37 NIV But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" ... 37 The expert in the law replied, "The one who had mercy on him." Jesus told him, "Go and do likewise.

E2 Romans 13:10 NIV Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.

F1 The word harm is the Greek word for bad in many applications.

F2 Bad is based on God’s standard not mine, not yours, not the neighbor.

D3 Romans 13:11-14 is urging us to be ready for the return of Jesus Christ.

C3 Chapter 14

D1 The chapter gives rules regarding our responsibilities to our Christian brothers and sisters.

D2 Romans 14:1-4 deals with what we eat. We are not to eat something that might cause our fellow believer to fall from faith.

D3 Romans 14:5-9 deals with observation of days for worship or something special. It is not important what particular day we worship but that we worship. We don’t need to argue and fight about this. One worships God on Sunday? Amen Another worships on Saturday. Maybe someone worships on Wednesday or every day. It makes no difference.

D4 Romans 14:10-12 reminds us that each of us will face judgment at Jesus’s throne. This judgment is not regarding salvation but for rewards. 1 Corinthians 3:12-15 NLT Anyone who builds on that foundation may use a variety of materials--gold, silver, jewels, wood, hay, or straw. 13 But on the judgment day, fire will reveal what kind of work each builder has done. The fire will show if a person's work has any value. 14 If the work survives, that builder will receive a reward. 15 But if the work is burned up, the builder will suffer great loss. The builder will be saved, but like someone barely escaping through a wall of flames.

D5 Romans 14:13-23 teaches us the rationale and motive for these rules which are our love for God and our love for our brother and sister as shown by what we say and what we do. We are not to insist on our own way in many things but accept the other person. Many marital arguments could be avoided by not insisting on our own personal habit or opinion.

C4 Chapter 15

D1 Romans 15:1-6 continues with rules for the church (the people). It is in helping our weaker brother or sister. We might understand weaker as more sensitive personality. The goal is not to insist and demand our way but to build up the faith of each other.

E1 It is the attitude of Jesus Christ: John 5:30 NKJV I can of Myself do nothing. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is righteous, because I do not seek My own will but the will of the Father who sent Me.

E2 We must have the same attitude: Matthew 16:24 NKJV Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.

E3 Philippians 2:4 NIV not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

E4 Galatians 6:2 NASB Bear one another's burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ.

D2 Romans 15:7-13 teach us that Gentiles and Jews believes are one. We are of one family. We have been adopted by God as sons and daughters. We are co-heirs with the Lord Jesus. Romans 8:17 NIV Now if we are children, then we are heirs--heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.

D3 Romans 15:14-22 teaches us that Paul was their apostle.

D4 Romans 15:23-33 is Paul’s plans for visiting these believers.

C5 Chapter 16 is a list of personal greetings to many brothers and sisters and the finishing of the letter.

Romans 16:27 CSB to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ—to him be the glory forever! Amen.

1 Year Through the Bible Series—Romans Part E+7 Reasons God has not Rejected Israel

C1 Israel

D1 There can be no confusion that Paul is speaking of DNA Israelites:

E1 Romans 9:3-5 ESV For I could wish that I myself were accursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my brothers, my kinsmen according to the flesh. 4 They are Israelites, and to them belong the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the worship, and the promises. 5 To them belong the patriarchs, and from their race, according to the flesh, is the Christ, who is God over all, blessed forever. Amen.

E2 Romans 10:1-2 ESV Brothers, my heart's desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved. 2 For I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge.

E3 Romans 11:1-2 ESV I ask, then, has God rejected his people? By no means! For I myself am an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham, a member of the tribe of Benjamin. 2 God has not rejected his people whom he foreknew. Do you not know what the Scripture says of Elijah, how he appeals to God against Israel?

D2 Paul emphasizes that even though DNA Israel had the promises, it must be actualized by faith. Just being born a Jew is not enough. Romans 9:32 ESV Why? Because they did not pursue it by faith, but as if it were based on works. They have stumbled over the stumbling stone,

D3 To illustrate what he means, Paul gives some examples.

E1 Esau and Jacob

F1 These are real people

F2 The outcome and teaching HERE in this passage is about nations named Esau (Edom) and Jacob (Israel).

F3 The man Esau never served the man Jacob. The nation Edom did serve the nation Israel.

G1 Edom was servant to Israel: 2 Samuel 8:14 ESV Then he put garrisons in Edom; throughout all Edom he put garrisons, and all the Edomites became David's servants. And the LORD gave victory to David wherever he went.

G2 Edom would serve Israel but not forever: 2 Kings 8:20, 22 ESV In his days Edom revolted from the rule of Judah and set up a king of their own. ... 22 So Edom revolted from the rule of Judah to this day. Then Libnah revolted at the same time.

F4 Why? Romans 9:13 ESV As it is written, "Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.

G1 Malachi 1:2-3 BSB “I have loved you,” says the LORD. But you ask, “How have You loved us?” “Was not Esau Jacob’s brother?” declares the LORD. “Yet Jacob I have loved, 3 but Esau I have hated, and I have made his mountains a wasteland and left his inheritance to the desert jackals.”

G2 Esau and his descendants did not have faith.

H1 The Edomites fought their brother instead of helping them: Amos 1:11 NLT This is what the LORD says: "The people of Edom have sinned again and again, and I will not let them go unpunished! They chased down their relatives, the Israelites, with swords, showing them no mercy. In their rage, they slashed them continually and were unrelenting in their anger.

H2 Idolatry: 2 Chronicles 25:20 NLT But Amaziah refused to listen, for God was determined to destroy him for turning to the gods of Edom.

H3 Esau himself did not have faith. He was immoral and profane: Hebrews 12:16 WEL Lest any be a fornicator or profane person like Esau, who for a single meal gave away his birthright.

G3 Jacob and his descendants (some) did have faith.

H1 Jacob himself: Genesis 28:22 NLT And this memorial pillar I have set up will become a place for worshiping God, and I will present to God a tenth of everything he gives me.

H2 Israel: Occasionally, the Scriptures mention the whole nation worshiping God, but often it is only small groups of Israel that worship. With the kings of Israel, some did and some did not. Compare 1 Kings 19:18.

E2 Pharaoh

F1 Romans 9:17-18 BSB For the Scripture says to Pharaoh: “I raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display My power in you, and that My name might be proclaimed in all the earth.” 18 Therefore God has mercy on whom He wants to have mercy, and He hardens whom He wants to harden.

F2 God knew what this man was like, so promoted him to Pharaoh.

F3 God choose Pharaoh to uncover the evil in Egypt, punishment for sin, and deliverance to those who believe Yahweh.

F4 Israel did believe as shown in that they obeyed the instructions for the Passover.

E3 Punishment and blessing

F1 Not an arbitrary decision/decree of God

F2 Sin (no faith, breaking God’s laws, etc.) bring punishment (Romans 2).

F3 Faith and trust in God, His words, His rules, etc. bring mercy

G1 Romans 4:20-22 NLT Abraham never wavered in believing God's promise. In fact, his faith grew stronger, and in this he brought glory to God. 21 He was fully convinced that God is able to do whatever he promises. 22 And because of Abraham's faith, God counted him as righteous.

G2 Romans 10:11 NRSV The scripture says, "No one who believes in him will be put to shame."

C2 Chapter 10

D1 Israel was confused and ignorant about salvation. They believed that by having the right DNA (descendant of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob) and keeping the Mosaic Law would bring forgiveness of sins and a home in heaven. They were zealous in this effort.

E1 Confused because of a wrong method of Bible Interpretation. They leaned on the teachings of man. Matthew 15:9 NIV They worship me in vain; their teachings are merely human rules

E2 They relied on theology and leaders rather than the plain, normal reading of the Scriptures as foremost importance. Mark 12:24 NKJV Jesus answered and said to them, "Are you not therefore mistaken, because you do not know the Scriptures nor the power of God?

D2 Salvation from the beginning of creation until the end is: Romans 10:9-13 NKJV that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. 11 For the Scripture says, "Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame." 12 For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him. 13 For "whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved."

D3 The greater part of Israel did not believe: Romans 10:16 NKJV But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, "LORD, who has believed our report?"

C3 Chapter 11

D1 God has not rejected Israel

E1 Romans 11:2 CSB God has not rejected his people whom he foreknew. Or don't you know what the Scripture says in the passage about Elijah—how he pleads with God against Israel?

E2 All believing Israel will be saved, forgiven, and have eternal life: Romans 11:26-27 CSB And in this way all Israel will be saved, as it is written, The Deliverer will come from Zion; he will turn godlessness away from Jacob. 27 And this will be my covenant with them when I take away their sins.

E3 A glorious deliverance by Messiah Jesus at the end of the Tribulation: Zechariah 14:4-5 NLT On that day his feet will stand on the Mount of Olives, east of Jerusalem. And the Mount of Olives will split apart, making a wide valley running from east to west. Half the mountain will move toward the north and half toward the south. 5 You will flee through this valley, for it will reach across to Azal. Yes, you will flee as you did from the earthquake in the days of King Uzziah of Judah. Then the LORD my God will come, and all his holy ones with him.

C2 Applications

D1 We all sin.

D2 Being related to a certain people group does not guarantee salvation.

D3 Only the Gospel of Jesus Christ is true. It has never changed. God initiates salvation, we have our will, heart, and understanding opened by God as to our sinfulness (breaking God’s laws) and punishment. Either the sinner is punished or a substitute. The substitute must be voluntary and eligible (sinless). Only Jesus Christ is suitable. He died and suffered for our sins. God decreed that only by repentance, believing, and trusting in Jesus is the only plan of salvation. We need to do this calling on the name of the Lord Jesus to be saved.

D4 God still has a plan for Israel, the DNA people who have a piece of real estate in the Middle East.

C3 Resources:

D1 Articles on Romans 9-11 by theologians from the Society of Evangelical Arminians

D2 Predestination and Free Will in Romans 9

D3 Ed Jarrett, “Arminianism: Foreknowledge, Predestination and Election”

D4 There are way too many Christians who believe that God has rejected the Jews and replaced her with the church. This article by Loren Jacobs refutes that teaching with 7 arguments:

E1 The Covenantal Argument (Romans 11:1 and Jeremiah 31:35-37)

E2 The Biographical Argument Israel is still God's people (Romans 11:1)

E3 The Theological Argument God foreknew Israel would reject the Gospel (Romans 11:2a and Acts 2:23, Acts 4:28, Romans 11:11 and Romans 11:25)

E4 The Historical Argument There has always been a remnant that believed (Romans 11b-10)

E5 The Argument of Origins God's promises are good and will result in a good conclusion (Romans 11:16)

E6 The Botanical Argument The natural branches (Israel) and the wild olive branches (Gentiles) (Romans 11:17-24)

E7 The Prophetic Argument Israel's hardening is only partial and temporary(Romans 11:25-27)

A Few Thoughts About the Devil’s Agents Part B+20 Helps in Deliverance

How can we be safe? Here are some guidelines to help us

B1 Truth (reality) is most important

C1 Beware of following any pastor, leader, person, etc. with knowing truth about them. Unthinking respect for authority is the greatest enemy of truth—Albert Einstein, 1879-1955, German-Jewish physicist

C2 The Importance of Truth (I don’t agree with everything on this site).

C3 Some verses on truth just from the Epistle to the Ephesians:

D1 Ephesians 4:15, 21, 25 NLT Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. ... 21 Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, ... 25 So stop telling lies. Let us tell our neighbors the truth, for we are all parts of the same body.

D2 Ephesians 6:14 NLT Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God's righteousness.

C4 Contrast the devil and the Lord Jesus regarding truth

D1 Lord Jesus: John 1:14 NKJV And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.

D2 devil: John 8:44 PickNT You are of your father the devil, and it is the desires of your father that you want to do. He was a murderer from the beginning and has not stood in the truth, because there is no truth in him. Whenever he speaks the lie he speaks from his own things, because he is a liar and the father of [lying].

C5 Example of speaking the truth. We must know the Scriptures and interpret them correctly: Matthew 4:10 NIV Jesus said to him, "Away from me, Satan! For it is written: 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.'"

B2 Understanding that the Scriptures are the only source of 100% truth

B3 Proper reading and understanding of the Scriptures. Since God is omniscient and omnisapient (all wise), He knows how to communicate perfectly. Knowing this, we interpret the Bible in its plain, normal sense. The Lord Jesus quotes from the Old Testament many times. Some say 84, but I don’t know. Each time He interprets those Old Testament passages in their plain, normal sense. (See here)

B4 Be a little skeptical. Search the Scriptures to see if this is correct. Be careful of them for they will redefine words and concepts. Don’t let them speak with impressive words and long, unnecessary answers. Don’t trust an explanation that takes reams of paper. Acts 17:11 NLT And the people of Berea were more open-minded than those in Thessalonica, and they listened eagerly to Paul's message. They searched the Scriptures day after day to see if Paul and Silas were teaching the truth.

B5 Know the characteristics of manipulators. For example, see here and here and here.

B6 Don’t become passive, that is, a mystic. 1 Peter 5:8-9 NLT Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. 9 Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your Christian brothers and sisters all over the world are going through the same kind of suffering you are.

B7 Be aware of his schemes. The schemes of the devil are those things he tries against us to get us to have misery, defeat, and even to deny the Lord Jesus. Ephesians 6:11 NIV Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes.

C1 He brings to mind the our failures.

C2 He accuses us of sinning.

C3 He accuses us of being fake Christians.

C4 He tempts with sin.

C5 He lies.

C6 He uses his agents to cause harm.

C7 He flatters to bring about pride.

C8 He uses sinful, sensual pleasures to arouse passions not allowed by God.

C9 He uses suffering. It may be persecution, sickness, abuse, etc.

C10 He deceives.

B8 Resist 1 Peter 5:9 CSB Resist him, firm in the faith, knowing that the same kind of sufferings are being experienced by your fellow believers throughout the world.

B9 No temptation is more than we can resist. Temptation is not sin. The Lord Jesus was tempted and without sin. 1 Corinthians 10:13 CSB No temptation has come upon you except what is common to humanity. But God is faithful; he will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation he will also provide a way out so that you may be able to bear it.

B10 Believe. He does love us. Romans 8:38-39 CSB For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, 39 nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

B11 God’s grace: 2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.

B12 Prayer. This would include personal prayer and also a Christian brother or sister or the church. Luke 22:40 NIV On reaching the place, he said to them, "Pray that you will not fall into temptation.

B13 To be on guard, not to slough off: 2 Peter 3:17 NIV Therefore, dear friends, since you have been forewarned, be on your guard so that you may not be carried away by the error of the lawless and fall from your secure position.

B14 Spiritual growth though Bible reading and studying, fellowship, living the Christian life, etc.: 2 Peter 3:18 NIV But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.

B15 Knowing God’s rules and having self-control. With the help of God’s grace, we can.

C1 God’s grace: Philippians 4:13 NKJV I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

C2 Self-control, self-discipline: 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 NIV Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. 25 Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. 26 Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. 27 No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.

B16 Rejoicing in God, His grace, and His blessings: Psalm 23:5 NLT You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings.

B17 Rejoice and have hope. The God, who stood with Paul when all abandoned him, is with us also. 2 Timothy 4:16-18 NLT The first time I was brought before the judge, no one came with me. Everyone abandoned me. May it not be counted against them. 17 But the Lord stood with me and gave me strength so that I might preach the Good News in its entirety for all the Gentiles to hear. And he rescued me from certain death. 18 Yes, and the Lord will deliver me from every evil attack and will bring me safely into his heavenly Kingdom. All glory to God forever and ever! Amen.

B18 Realize and hold on to the promise of the Lord Jesus praying for us: Hebrews 7:25 NIV Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.

B19 Seek the fellowship of other believers: 1 Thessalonians 3:2-3 NLT and we sent Timothy to visit you. He is our brother and God's co-worker in proclaiming the Good News of Christ. We sent him to strengthen you, to encourage you in your faith, 3 and to keep you from being shaken by the troubles you were going through. But you know that we are destined for such troubles.

B20 The devil’s agents are their to destroy our faith, make us ineffective, make life miserable. We remember our Lord Jesus and share His sufferings: 1 Peter 4:12-13 NLT Dear friends, don't be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. 13 Instead, be very glad--for these trials make you partners with Christ in his suffering, so that you will have the wonderful joy of seeing his glory when it is revealed to all the world.

The dangers we believers face is large, but we have a redeemer, one who will never leave us.

Psalm 5:2-7 NLT Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God, for I pray to no one but you. 3 Listen to my voice in the morning, LORD. Each morning I bring my requests to you and wait expectantly. 4 O God, you take no pleasure in wickedness; you cannot tolerate the sins of the wicked. 5 Therefore, the proud may not stand in your presence, for you hate all who do evil. 6 You will destroy those who tell lies. The LORD detests murderers and deceivers. 7 Because of your unfailing love, I can enter your house; I will worship at your Temple with deepest awe.