How can we learn to reflect that same kind of good “jealousy” toward others that God displays toward us?

 Learning to reflect the good kind of "jealousy" that God displays involves understanding its nature and purpose. In the Bible, God’s jealousy is rooted in His love, righteousness, and desire for the best for His people. It’s not selfcentered or destructive but protective, caring, and devoted. Here's how we can emulate this kind of jealousy toward others.

Cultivate Pure Motives  

    God’s jealousy is rooted in love. Similarly, our concern for others should stem from genuine care for their wellbeing rather than selfish desires or envy.  

    Ask yourself: Is my jealousy about wanting the best for this person, or is it about me?

Protect Relationships Out of Love  

    God’s jealousy reflects His commitment to His covenant relationship. In the same way, show dedication to the people you care about by prioritizing their growth, happiness, and faithfulness to what is good.  

    Be willing to have honest conversations if you notice harmful influences or behaviors in their lives.  

Encourage Devotion to What is Good  

    God’s jealousy desires His people to remain faithful to Him because it leads to their flourishing. Encourage others to stay devoted to their faith, values, or personal goals without coercion or control.  

    Help guide others toward what is right, being mindful to act as a supporter, not a rival.  

Avoid Envy or Possessiveness  

    Good jealousy seeks the good of the other person, not control over them. Ensure your actions aren’t driven by insecurity or fear of losing them.  

    Be willing to celebrate their achievements and joy, even if it doesn't directly involve you.  

Model Selflessness and Grace  

    God’s jealousy is patient and gracious, giving His people opportunities to return to Him. Reflect this by being patient, forgiving, and understanding in your relationships.  

    Don’t hold grudges or act out of bitterness; instead, focus on reconciliation and unity.  

Pray for Guidance and Love  

    Ask God to shape your heart so that your "jealousy" aligns with His character.  

    Pray for wisdom to know when and how to act out of love and concern for others.  

By focusing on love, selflessness, and devotion to the wellbeing of others, we can reflect the protective and righteous jealousy of God in our relationships.

More on: Lesson 4: God is Passionate and Compassionate.

Who are those who today might be looked upon as the tax collectors were in Jesus’ day? What Should We Do?

 

In Jesus' time, tax collectors were generally despised by the Jewish population because they were seen as collaborators with the Roman occupiers and often engaged in corrupt practices. They were viewed as sinners and social outcasts. In modern times, there are several groups of people who might be viewed with similar disdain or mistrust. These could include:

People in Certain Professions: For example, debt collectors, lawyers, or politicians might be viewed with suspicion or hostility due to the nature of their work or perceived ethical issues.

Individuals with Criminal Histories: People who have been incarcerated or who have criminal records often face significant social stigma and are marginalized.

Immigrants and Refugees: In some societies, immigrants and refugees might be viewed with suspicion or hostility, often due to xenophobia or economic fears.

People with Substance Abuse Issues: Those struggling with addiction often face harsh judgment and social ostracism.

Adjusting Our Thinking

To adjust our thinking regarding these modern "tax collectors," we can:

Practice Empathy: Try to understand the challenges and circumstances that people face. Empathy involves seeing the world from another person's perspective and recognizing their humanity.

Avoid Judgement: Refrain from making snap judgments based on a person's profession, background, or struggles. Everyone has a unique story and set of experiences that shape who they are.

Educate Ourselves: Learn about the systemic issues that contribute to the marginalization of certain groups. Understanding the broader context can reduce prejudice and foster compassion.

Offer Support: Actively support initiatives and policies that help integrate marginalized individuals into society. This might include supporting criminal justice reform, substance abuse treatment programs, or immigrant and refugee services.

Reflect on Personal Biases: Regularly reflect on and challenge our own biases. This self-awareness can help us become more accepting and compassionate individuals.

Embrace Inclusive Attitudes: Foster a community spirit that includes rather than excludes. Encouraging inclusivity can help break down barriers and reduce the stigma faced by marginalized groups.

Follow Examples of Compassion: Look to Jesus, who showed kindness and compassion to those society deemed outcasts. His example teaches us to extend grace and understanding to everyone, regardless of their social standing.

By adopting these approaches, we can create a more inclusive and compassionate society that recognizes the dignity and worth of every individual.

Christians and Bankruptcy

 

Nowhere in The Bible does it tell us that we should not file for bankruptcy. It does, however, discourage getting so far into debt that you cannot repay it. God's children were never to be slaves to anyon or anything, except The Master, Jesus Christ. In Romans 1:1, Paul calls himself just that.

For people today it is easy to go into debt. Many people file bankruptcy. The Christian thing to do it to pay your debts. Avoid going into bankruptcy by looking at all options.

There are times when you feel as if you have reached the end, and the only solution is bankruptcy. There are several ways that even a Christian might consider a reason to allow bankruptcy.

Sometimes it might be that a credtitor is able to force you into bankruptcy. Although this is rare, it could happen. Depending on the number of creditors, one of them could force it. Bankruptcy actually helps the creditors, as they will recoup some of what is owed them.

Financial hardships become so great that there is no other alternative. Your life can change in an instant. All this could add to emotional suffering and stress. The pressure and shame is too great to bear. Your very health is at risk.

Would you like a case where bankruptcy is an option for even a Christian? Consider when a spouse dies or abandons the family. There might be several debts due and the remaining spouse is unable to afford to pay them. Creditor phone calls add to the emotional pain.

How about a natural disaster? Lack of enough insurance sends many to fall behind and into debt.

Bankruptcy in these cases will ease the financial burdens and mental anguish.

We know that many Christians also go through unwanted divorces. Christians should not feel shamed by going into bankruptcy for the above and similar reasons.

If you are spending money that you don't have, for things you don't need, your lifestyle is not exactly Christ-like. We always encourage a Christ-like life, filled with prayer, Bible study, worship, and fellowship.

Christians and Free Will

 What does it mean for Christians to have free will?

You might be surprised!