Many of us have experienced times where we have wrestled with Jesus. In John 4 we read that there was a royal official whose son was sick at Capernaum. This official pleaded with Jesus to come to his son before his son dies.
This royal official didn't believe in Jesus yet. He wanted to see a miracle. Jesus, being in the miracle business, gave him exactly what was needed to prove that he was who others were saying he was. Jesus replied to the man, "You may go. Your son will live."
There must have been something in the tone Jesus spoke with, for the pleading stopped and footsteps began. The Bible tells us that "The man took Jesus at his word and departed." After the official applied steps of faith to what Jesus had spoken, he was soon greeted with the good news that his son was healed. He was also greeted with the Good News that Jesus was real.
After our pleading, if we would simply stop fighting Jesus and take him at his word, applying steps of faith, we too would see the miracle of answered prayer. When you wrestle, have you ever noticed that you get too busy telling Jesus "ya but..."?
When need to take Jesus at his word. When he says he is going to do something, then he is going to do it! I think it is sometimes on those steps of faith we take, that our doubt turns to belief. Keep believing - take him at his word!
Friday, December 19, 2008
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Got Power?
Living in the great North East has taught us that we need to be able to adapt to several climate changes throughout the year. The memories of Spring, Summer and Fall bring such a warmth to my spirit. This week many of us experienced a rude awakening that Winter is just around the corner as our little neck of the woods was coated with 3/4" of ice. So pretty, yet so weighty. So smooth, yet so destructive. Many of us felt the effects of being powerless!
I have come to this realization...I do not like to be without power! I like to be warm, I like to take hot showers, I like to blow dry my hair, I like to eat hot meals...and I like it when I flip a light switch to see that the light actually comes on! I also like it when God uses present circumstances to teach us spiritual lessons!
God is our power source, yet how often do we tap into him? For every room of uncertainty do we stop and seek his light of truth or do we walk in darkness trying to aimlessly find our way out? For every fear do we seek the illumination that will shed the light of truth that will bring release from dark imprisonment? The list of questions could go on and on as we take a look at how we respond to trials, temptations, anxiety, and doubts to name a few.
We have received power from on high. There is no greater source of power than that of the Holy Spirit. We just have to remember to "flip the switch". The Holy Spirit is a constant source - the same yesterday, today and forever!
2Peter 1:5 says, "His divine power has given us EVERYTHING we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness."
With the Holy Spirit and the Word of God, we are never powerless. Live and walk in the power of God's truth!
I have come to this realization...I do not like to be without power! I like to be warm, I like to take hot showers, I like to blow dry my hair, I like to eat hot meals...and I like it when I flip a light switch to see that the light actually comes on! I also like it when God uses present circumstances to teach us spiritual lessons!
God is our power source, yet how often do we tap into him? For every room of uncertainty do we stop and seek his light of truth or do we walk in darkness trying to aimlessly find our way out? For every fear do we seek the illumination that will shed the light of truth that will bring release from dark imprisonment? The list of questions could go on and on as we take a look at how we respond to trials, temptations, anxiety, and doubts to name a few.
We have received power from on high. There is no greater source of power than that of the Holy Spirit. We just have to remember to "flip the switch". The Holy Spirit is a constant source - the same yesterday, today and forever!
2Peter 1:5 says, "His divine power has given us EVERYTHING we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness."
With the Holy Spirit and the Word of God, we are never powerless. Live and walk in the power of God's truth!
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Where's the Joy?
I've been noticing something lately...it's probably been there a long time and I am only now understanding it's impact and significance. In conversations everywhere I go, there is a lack of joy.
Some of us parents last night at swim team were having a conversation about the state of the economy. How everywhere you go it is the topic being discussed. People are talking about their hardships and their worries, of all the stories of being laid off and how they can't afford so many of the things that were once pleasurable. These topics are definitely of great concern.
Our discussion then turned as I posed this question, "When was the last time you asked someone how they were doing and their response was "great" or "my day is wonderful"? How many cheerful people do you run into? Every where there is negativity. You ask the question and you get dumped on! Yuck!!!
As Christians, I see another opportunity here for God to shine through us. Instead of us falling into the pit of complaining, we can shed the truth of joy and hope. What would happen if we started to speak forth expressions like, "I am so thankful for..." or "It has been such a great day..." or "Being the economy is in this state, God is using it to teach me..."?
As Christians, we can be a turning point in every conversation we partake in. We just need to look for opportunities and we need to safe guard ourselves and be determined ahead of time not to engage in negativity. A cheerful heart is good medicine. Not just for the listener, but for the speaker as well.
The Holy Spirit is at work in us and through us. Let's desire to walk in the fruit of the spirit and spread the joy of the Lord everywhere we go.
Some of us parents last night at swim team were having a conversation about the state of the economy. How everywhere you go it is the topic being discussed. People are talking about their hardships and their worries, of all the stories of being laid off and how they can't afford so many of the things that were once pleasurable. These topics are definitely of great concern.
Our discussion then turned as I posed this question, "When was the last time you asked someone how they were doing and their response was "great" or "my day is wonderful"? How many cheerful people do you run into? Every where there is negativity. You ask the question and you get dumped on! Yuck!!!
As Christians, I see another opportunity here for God to shine through us. Instead of us falling into the pit of complaining, we can shed the truth of joy and hope. What would happen if we started to speak forth expressions like, "I am so thankful for..." or "It has been such a great day..." or "Being the economy is in this state, God is using it to teach me..."?
As Christians, we can be a turning point in every conversation we partake in. We just need to look for opportunities and we need to safe guard ourselves and be determined ahead of time not to engage in negativity. A cheerful heart is good medicine. Not just for the listener, but for the speaker as well.
The Holy Spirit is at work in us and through us. Let's desire to walk in the fruit of the spirit and spread the joy of the Lord everywhere we go.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
The List of Love
This morning a list of love jumped off the pages of my Bible. It is a hard list to check off, for there is a list of reality in my heart that needs to be considered. A personal evaluation, so it may be called. The word "sincere" was the first check point. To be free of falsehood, pretense or deceit. To be honest, it is hard to go any farther. God's grace gives me the ability to read on and continue in my evaluation. My prayer is that upon the completion of the search of my heart, that I may arise from my kneeling positions and walk things out with even more of God's grace and His love.
Here is the list taken from Romans 12:9-21
1) Love must be sincere
2) Hate what is evil
3) Cling to what is good
4) Be devoted to one another in brotherly love
5) Honor one another above yourself
6) Never be lacking in zeal (keep your fervor by serving the Lord)
7) Be joyful in hope
8) Be patient in affliction
9) Be faithful in prayer
10) Share with God's people who are in need
11) Practice hospitality
12) Bless those who persecute you
13) Bless and do not curse
14) Rejoice with those who rejoice
15) Mourn with those who mourn
16) Live in harmony with one another
17) Do not be proud
18) Be willing to associate with people of low position
19) Do not be conceited
20) Do not repay anyone evil for evil
21) Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody
22) If possible, to the best you can, live at peace with everyone
23) Do not take revenge
24) If your enemy is hungry feed him
25) If your enemy is thirsty give him something to drink
26) Do not be overcome by evil
27) Overcome evil with good
Here is the list taken from Romans 12:9-21
1) Love must be sincere
2) Hate what is evil
3) Cling to what is good
4) Be devoted to one another in brotherly love
5) Honor one another above yourself
6) Never be lacking in zeal (keep your fervor by serving the Lord)
7) Be joyful in hope
8) Be patient in affliction
9) Be faithful in prayer
10) Share with God's people who are in need
11) Practice hospitality
12) Bless those who persecute you
13) Bless and do not curse
14) Rejoice with those who rejoice
15) Mourn with those who mourn
16) Live in harmony with one another
17) Do not be proud
18) Be willing to associate with people of low position
19) Do not be conceited
20) Do not repay anyone evil for evil
21) Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody
22) If possible, to the best you can, live at peace with everyone
23) Do not take revenge
24) If your enemy is hungry feed him
25) If your enemy is thirsty give him something to drink
26) Do not be overcome by evil
27) Overcome evil with good
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
The Seal On Your Lips
God's word is powerful and so convicting. When you desire to set your mind on what the Spirit desires instead of what the sinful nature ( a.k.a. your flesh!) desires, then a work of God is at hand.
Today I want to talk about our mouths. They often get us into a lot of trouble. We sometimes say words that we hope we could just reverse time and take back. When they come out, we know that they have wounded others, have spoken curses, or have even reflected ungodly character to someone we have been trying to witness to. When we were children, name calling or a bad word were often met with correction from a parent. As adults we still say words that can hurt us as well as others through being angry, critical or by even by using complaining speech. Thankfully, we have a loving Father to bring us the correction needed!
We need to discipline our minds to desire what the Spirit desires. The Holy Spirit desires us to be pure in heart, for out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. God also knows that we are rather imperfect and bestows much grace upon us as we walk out this discipline.
David had a cry out to God that I think I would offer up with great fear and trembling! Psalm 17:3 says, "Though you probe my heart and examine me at night, though you test me, you will find nothing; I have resolved that my mouth will not sin." There is a word David uses that reveals his determination not to sin. It is the word "resolved". Webster's states that to be resolved is to be decided, determined, or purposed in mind.
It takes the conviction of God to be aware of tainted speech. It takes a humble heart to confess the uncleanness of lips. It takes a mind that is set on what the Spirit desires and a mind that is resolved not to allow the mouth to sin to walk in true repentance.
David knew that he was not able to walk out this discipline on his own. He needed help and knew where his help came from. Psalm 141:3 says, "Take control of what I say, O Lord, and keep my lips sealed."
Today I want to talk about our mouths. They often get us into a lot of trouble. We sometimes say words that we hope we could just reverse time and take back. When they come out, we know that they have wounded others, have spoken curses, or have even reflected ungodly character to someone we have been trying to witness to. When we were children, name calling or a bad word were often met with correction from a parent. As adults we still say words that can hurt us as well as others through being angry, critical or by even by using complaining speech. Thankfully, we have a loving Father to bring us the correction needed!
We need to discipline our minds to desire what the Spirit desires. The Holy Spirit desires us to be pure in heart, for out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. God also knows that we are rather imperfect and bestows much grace upon us as we walk out this discipline.
David had a cry out to God that I think I would offer up with great fear and trembling! Psalm 17:3 says, "Though you probe my heart and examine me at night, though you test me, you will find nothing; I have resolved that my mouth will not sin." There is a word David uses that reveals his determination not to sin. It is the word "resolved". Webster's states that to be resolved is to be decided, determined, or purposed in mind.
It takes the conviction of God to be aware of tainted speech. It takes a humble heart to confess the uncleanness of lips. It takes a mind that is set on what the Spirit desires and a mind that is resolved not to allow the mouth to sin to walk in true repentance.
David knew that he was not able to walk out this discipline on his own. He needed help and knew where his help came from. Psalm 141:3 says, "Take control of what I say, O Lord, and keep my lips sealed."
Friday, November 28, 2008
A Heart of Appreciation
1 Thess 1:2-3 says, "We always thank God for all of you, mentioning you in our prayers. We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ."
The Lord had me do a simple exercise once that caused great love and appreciation to well up from deep within my spirit. The exercise was this; He had me take our church communications list and go through the list(every man, woman and child) and write out what I remember each person for. For example, their faithful and steadfast service. Then when that was done, I took person by person and offered up a pray to God in remembrance of what they have done and asked the Lord to continue to bless their acts of service.
Not only did this exercise cause appreciation for each person to enter into my spirit, but it caused thankfulness to flow. God has blessed us so richly hasn't he? The other thing this exercise prompted was to give me ways to encourage those in our church body. We all need encouragement. We all need to be appreciated and know that our service to God is touching others in the way God wants them touched.
Mother Teresa spoke this and I quote, "We cannot do any great things for God, just small things done with great love." Work produced by faith, labor prompted by love, and endurance inspired by hope in Jesus.
I encourage you to do this same writing exercise. The fruit of it will be appreciation that overflows with thanksgiving and encouragement!
The Lord had me do a simple exercise once that caused great love and appreciation to well up from deep within my spirit. The exercise was this; He had me take our church communications list and go through the list(every man, woman and child) and write out what I remember each person for. For example, their faithful and steadfast service. Then when that was done, I took person by person and offered up a pray to God in remembrance of what they have done and asked the Lord to continue to bless their acts of service.
Not only did this exercise cause appreciation for each person to enter into my spirit, but it caused thankfulness to flow. God has blessed us so richly hasn't he? The other thing this exercise prompted was to give me ways to encourage those in our church body. We all need encouragement. We all need to be appreciated and know that our service to God is touching others in the way God wants them touched.
Mother Teresa spoke this and I quote, "We cannot do any great things for God, just small things done with great love." Work produced by faith, labor prompted by love, and endurance inspired by hope in Jesus.
I encourage you to do this same writing exercise. The fruit of it will be appreciation that overflows with thanksgiving and encouragement!
Thursday, November 27, 2008
What God Loves
Yesterday we took a look at what God hates and what breaks his heart. Today we are going to take a look at what God loves.
I spend a lot of time planting good seed into my son, Samuel. Often our conversations and lessons are based on situations that arise and how to respond them. My response to many of his intending life questions is often the same..."Will it be pleasing to God?", or, "Will it put a smile on God's face?"
I don't want to be legalistic or to teach my son how to be legalistic. But, rules are rules and they have been put there for our safety. Some people think that "rules" can cause you to be legalistic and I guess they can be if the motive is fueled by works. I want to obey rules (and I want my son to also) with the motive being this - I simply want to put a smile on God's face and please (make him happy) with every aspect of my life. Yes, I am on a mission to please God and because of that I want to obey all his rules. Again, not because I have to, but because I love him - that's my motive. When your motive is love, then you always want to do things that please.
So after pondering the thought, "What does God love?" I made this list.
God loves it when we have no other God's before him.
God loves it when we don't have idols of any form in our lives.
God loves it when we do not misuse his name.
God loves it when we observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.
God loves it you honor your father and mother.
God loves it when you don't murder (or hold murder in your heart).
God loves it when you don't commit adultery (keep even your heart pure from these thoughts).
God loves it when you don't steal (don't take what doesn't belong to you).
God loves it when you speak truthfully of your neighbor (don't give false testimony).
God loves it when you don't want what is not yours (do not covet).
God loves it when we love our neighbors as ourselves.
God loves it when we love one another.
God loves it when we give cheerfully, for he loves a cheerful giver.
God loves it when we feed the hungry and give a drink to the thirsty.
God loves it when we clothe those in need.
God loves it when we take care of the sick.
God loves it when we care for the widows and the orphans.
God loves every thought he has of you.
God loves the fragrance of your offering.
God loves the time you spend with him.
God loves to call you by name.
God loves the sound of your voice.
God loves you with a never ending love.
God loves to pour his love on you.
The list of things that God loves could go on and on. Upon reading this list, I hope you can see how much God loves the work you are doing for His kingdom, as well as how pleased he is with the motive of your heart while doing it. You certainly are putting a smile on God's face for he loves not only what you are doing, but more importantly he loves you!
I spend a lot of time planting good seed into my son, Samuel. Often our conversations and lessons are based on situations that arise and how to respond them. My response to many of his intending life questions is often the same..."Will it be pleasing to God?", or, "Will it put a smile on God's face?"
I don't want to be legalistic or to teach my son how to be legalistic. But, rules are rules and they have been put there for our safety. Some people think that "rules" can cause you to be legalistic and I guess they can be if the motive is fueled by works. I want to obey rules (and I want my son to also) with the motive being this - I simply want to put a smile on God's face and please (make him happy) with every aspect of my life. Yes, I am on a mission to please God and because of that I want to obey all his rules. Again, not because I have to, but because I love him - that's my motive. When your motive is love, then you always want to do things that please.
So after pondering the thought, "What does God love?" I made this list.
God loves it when we have no other God's before him.
God loves it when we don't have idols of any form in our lives.
God loves it when we do not misuse his name.
God loves it when we observe the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.
God loves it you honor your father and mother.
God loves it when you don't murder (or hold murder in your heart).
God loves it when you don't commit adultery (keep even your heart pure from these thoughts).
God loves it when you don't steal (don't take what doesn't belong to you).
God loves it when you speak truthfully of your neighbor (don't give false testimony).
God loves it when you don't want what is not yours (do not covet).
God loves it when we love our neighbors as ourselves.
God loves it when we love one another.
God loves it when we give cheerfully, for he loves a cheerful giver.
God loves it when we feed the hungry and give a drink to the thirsty.
God loves it when we clothe those in need.
God loves it when we take care of the sick.
God loves it when we care for the widows and the orphans.
God loves every thought he has of you.
God loves the fragrance of your offering.
God loves the time you spend with him.
God loves to call you by name.
God loves the sound of your voice.
God loves you with a never ending love.
God loves to pour his love on you.
The list of things that God loves could go on and on. Upon reading this list, I hope you can see how much God loves the work you are doing for His kingdom, as well as how pleased he is with the motive of your heart while doing it. You certainly are putting a smile on God's face for he loves not only what you are doing, but more importantly he loves you!
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
God's Heart
I am on a mission. My mission is to take on the heart of God. He has already given me the mind of Christ, but now I want his heart. I want to know not only what he thinks, but I want to know how he feels.
I have been spending more and more time in prayer lately. I think that is the key to becoming more sensitive to what he is sensitive about. The closer I draw to him the farther away I get from the cares and concerns of this world. Yet I am finding that the closer I draw to him the more I am understanding his cares and concerns for this world.
The other night at study, the speaker conveyed questions that stirred my spirit so emotionally that I just wanted to cry. Partly because it was convicting, but also because I just wanted to fall on my face and begin to intercede for this world that has become so far removed from the heart of God.
Here are a few questions to help us ponder what God's heart is. How do you suppose God feels as he watches a child huddled in a corner of the room crying because they hear mom and dad screaming at each other? How do you think God feels when he hears a man hitting hitting his wife? How do you think God feels when he hears a wife disrespect her husband? How do you think God feels when we discipline our children too harshly? How do you think God feels when we pass by our neighbor in need? How do you think God feels about sexual immorality, idolatry, hatred and discord? Pretty heavy questions aren't they?
In the book of Proverbs it is stated "To fear the Lord is to HATE evil". My question is this...do we really HATE what God hates?
We read it in the Bible. We know it in our minds. But do we have the reality of God's heart? Are we so moved by his heart that we are compelled to fall on our knees and cry out in intercession to see peoples hearts change? Are we so moved by his heart that we are compelled to fall on our knees and cry out in humble repentance upon recognizing our own wrong?
Knowing God's heart moves us. It moves us to prayer. It moves us to serve. It moves us go into the nations and preach the good news. It moves us to repent. Do you know God's heart?
I have been spending more and more time in prayer lately. I think that is the key to becoming more sensitive to what he is sensitive about. The closer I draw to him the farther away I get from the cares and concerns of this world. Yet I am finding that the closer I draw to him the more I am understanding his cares and concerns for this world.
The other night at study, the speaker conveyed questions that stirred my spirit so emotionally that I just wanted to cry. Partly because it was convicting, but also because I just wanted to fall on my face and begin to intercede for this world that has become so far removed from the heart of God.
Here are a few questions to help us ponder what God's heart is. How do you suppose God feels as he watches a child huddled in a corner of the room crying because they hear mom and dad screaming at each other? How do you think God feels when he hears a man hitting hitting his wife? How do you think God feels when he hears a wife disrespect her husband? How do you think God feels when we discipline our children too harshly? How do you think God feels when we pass by our neighbor in need? How do you think God feels about sexual immorality, idolatry, hatred and discord? Pretty heavy questions aren't they?
In the book of Proverbs it is stated "To fear the Lord is to HATE evil". My question is this...do we really HATE what God hates?
We read it in the Bible. We know it in our minds. But do we have the reality of God's heart? Are we so moved by his heart that we are compelled to fall on our knees and cry out in intercession to see peoples hearts change? Are we so moved by his heart that we are compelled to fall on our knees and cry out in humble repentance upon recognizing our own wrong?
Knowing God's heart moves us. It moves us to prayer. It moves us to serve. It moves us go into the nations and preach the good news. It moves us to repent. Do you know God's heart?
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
A Simple Truth
It truly is a time for Thanksgiving! God has not only done so much in my life this year, but he has illuminated his truth to me time and time again. What a privilege to have and to hold on to his word. It never ceases to amaze me that you could read a passage of scripture nine times and on the tenth time the eyes of revelation open to new insight!
This past week my wonderful friend and piano teacher, Sarah, gave me an assignment. The assignment was to write a song of thanks in the key of E. She just loves to stretch me as this is two weeks in a row now that she has given me the same assignment but in a different key. Stretching is good...if you never stretched you would never grow!
I looked up relevant chords in the key of E. I taught myself how to play them. And I waited...no song...and I waited...no song. I prayed, I read. Nothing happening!
Last night (mind you my lesson is today!) I figured I would open up the Psalms in the 60's - there must be something there I could use in a song of thanks. What beautiful words from several different chapters and verses I penned on my note pad. I was truly excited as I thought, now I have some beautiful words to sing to the Lord! I sat down and began to plunk my new E chords and I humbly have to admit that these words of great treasure just weren't fitting. Now I was frustrated and ready to give up.
But God has not called me to give up, so I just continued to play the chords. Words began to flow from my lips of praise. They were not the words that I had expected, and at first I didn't see how they fit the assignment of writing a song of thanks. Yet as I continued to sing my praises to the Lord with the revelation I was receiving from him, I became ever so thankful.
The song that flowed from my lips expressed the simple truth, that it is for His glory that he created me. The truth I knew in my head, became a reality in my spirit. Assignment finished, and ready for my next lesson today. I am ever so thankful to God for his simple truths!
This past week my wonderful friend and piano teacher, Sarah, gave me an assignment. The assignment was to write a song of thanks in the key of E. She just loves to stretch me as this is two weeks in a row now that she has given me the same assignment but in a different key. Stretching is good...if you never stretched you would never grow!
I looked up relevant chords in the key of E. I taught myself how to play them. And I waited...no song...and I waited...no song. I prayed, I read. Nothing happening!
Last night (mind you my lesson is today!) I figured I would open up the Psalms in the 60's - there must be something there I could use in a song of thanks. What beautiful words from several different chapters and verses I penned on my note pad. I was truly excited as I thought, now I have some beautiful words to sing to the Lord! I sat down and began to plunk my new E chords and I humbly have to admit that these words of great treasure just weren't fitting. Now I was frustrated and ready to give up.
But God has not called me to give up, so I just continued to play the chords. Words began to flow from my lips of praise. They were not the words that I had expected, and at first I didn't see how they fit the assignment of writing a song of thanks. Yet as I continued to sing my praises to the Lord with the revelation I was receiving from him, I became ever so thankful.
The song that flowed from my lips expressed the simple truth, that it is for His glory that he created me. The truth I knew in my head, became a reality in my spirit. Assignment finished, and ready for my next lesson today. I am ever so thankful to God for his simple truths!
Monday, November 24, 2008
Entertaining His Presence
How precious was the time I spent with the Lord yesterday after church. When worship was finished and church was released, my spirit was not. So, I stayed and lingered a little while longer in the presence of the Holy Spirit. I can only imagine how Mary felt as she knelt at Jesus feet. I am sure that as she entertained the presence of Jesus that her spirit cried out to just sit there a little while longer too.
We are always in such a rush. We have to do this and that. The list of what we think is so important and must get done never ends. We schedule most of our time according to what we think is important or perhaps fun. We allot time for many things and we even find time to squeeze in two hours for Sunday service. We hope that service doesn't run over because it may infringe on other plans we have made. We even have a list of what needs to get accomplished on our Sabbath day. Many of us reading this are asking ourselves "what's that!".
I often think of the Sabbath day simply as a day of rest. But I think I am going to take a different look at. I am going to look at it as a day set aside for the Lord. A day I stay focused on Him. A day where I spend quality time with him, where my thoughts and affections are lavished on him. A day where I entertain His presence.
Martha and Mary sure can teach me a lot about what I need to do differently and even encourage me in what I am doing right. As like Martha, I just love to get things prepared for guests coming over. I go into great detail to make people feel welcome and even try to make a little something that I know each one would like to eat. Of course, a knock out desert will always be a great blessing. I like to make people feel special and loved. After all, God makes me feel special and loved, so my cup longs to runneth over! I must admit though, that I can easily fall into a trap of business. Thus, I need to learn to sit like Mary does. Mary discerned what was the better choice. I too need to discern what is best.
I am going to take what I am learning here and apply it to my Sabbath day. I am going to prepare and manage my time better through the week so that on Sunday's (my Sabbath day) I can share my affections with Jesus and stay focused on him and not on what I still have left to do on my never ending list.
I want to be better at preparing for my time with him in worship on Sunday's. I prepare for everything else all week long, meeting demand after demand, and taking care of everyone's needs, that it seems like I breathe a sigh of relief to simply come to church and sit for two hours (I don't think that is the kind of rest Jesus calls us to!!!). I don't think that is the mind set that Jesus desires me to have. I want to get to the place that I come to church on Sunday's with my heart prepared to spend time with Jesus. Where I come longing to spend time in the presence of the Holy Spirit. Where I am determined to enter in to the Holy of Holies. Where the desire of my heart cries to just linger a little longer. Where I don't put a time limit on the time I have to spend with him. Where I just sit and allow him to minister to me and me to him for however long he desires.
I rush all week...I don't want to rush my time with Jesus. After all, God sees that I am special and he loves me and he wants his cup to runneth over on me....again and again and again. Oh, to entertain His presence and linger just a little while longer.
We are always in such a rush. We have to do this and that. The list of what we think is so important and must get done never ends. We schedule most of our time according to what we think is important or perhaps fun. We allot time for many things and we even find time to squeeze in two hours for Sunday service. We hope that service doesn't run over because it may infringe on other plans we have made. We even have a list of what needs to get accomplished on our Sabbath day. Many of us reading this are asking ourselves "what's that!".
I often think of the Sabbath day simply as a day of rest. But I think I am going to take a different look at. I am going to look at it as a day set aside for the Lord. A day I stay focused on Him. A day where I spend quality time with him, where my thoughts and affections are lavished on him. A day where I entertain His presence.
Martha and Mary sure can teach me a lot about what I need to do differently and even encourage me in what I am doing right. As like Martha, I just love to get things prepared for guests coming over. I go into great detail to make people feel welcome and even try to make a little something that I know each one would like to eat. Of course, a knock out desert will always be a great blessing. I like to make people feel special and loved. After all, God makes me feel special and loved, so my cup longs to runneth over! I must admit though, that I can easily fall into a trap of business. Thus, I need to learn to sit like Mary does. Mary discerned what was the better choice. I too need to discern what is best.
I am going to take what I am learning here and apply it to my Sabbath day. I am going to prepare and manage my time better through the week so that on Sunday's (my Sabbath day) I can share my affections with Jesus and stay focused on him and not on what I still have left to do on my never ending list.
I want to be better at preparing for my time with him in worship on Sunday's. I prepare for everything else all week long, meeting demand after demand, and taking care of everyone's needs, that it seems like I breathe a sigh of relief to simply come to church and sit for two hours (I don't think that is the kind of rest Jesus calls us to!!!). I don't think that is the mind set that Jesus desires me to have. I want to get to the place that I come to church on Sunday's with my heart prepared to spend time with Jesus. Where I come longing to spend time in the presence of the Holy Spirit. Where I am determined to enter in to the Holy of Holies. Where the desire of my heart cries to just linger a little longer. Where I don't put a time limit on the time I have to spend with him. Where I just sit and allow him to minister to me and me to him for however long he desires.
I rush all week...I don't want to rush my time with Jesus. After all, God sees that I am special and he loves me and he wants his cup to runneth over on me....again and again and again. Oh, to entertain His presence and linger just a little while longer.
Friday, November 21, 2008
How Deep Can You Go?
Many of us have been to parties in our younger years (and maybe in our older!) where we have played the exciting game of Limbo. For some that have not stretched out their muscles in a while, the game can be rather humbling as one attempts to go under the stick.
Yes, the measuring stick. Two people holding a measuring stick, that with each pass it becomes lower and lower and lower. People all around are simultaneously yelling "How low can you go?". The lower you go, the closer to the prize you get! I am humble enough to admit that I have never won!
There is a way to measure how deep we can go in God. It is found in Ezekiel 47. Ezekiel was led by a man with a measuring stick into the river of life that flowed from the temple of God. At first it was ankle deep, then it was knee deep. As they continued it became waist deep and eventually reached the depth that Ezekiel was submersed and had to swim. What we see here is a spiritual picture that we can apply in the natural.
The first lesson we can glean here is that Ezekiel didn't choose to simply stand on the river bank and watch the water run by him. In other words he didn't want the Spirit of God to run by him. By taking a step into the water, there was a willingness to experience a depth of God that he did not know.
The second lesson that we can glean is that Ezekiel didn't settle for just remaining in ankle deep water. He went to the next step. We need to be ever willing to go to the next level in God.
The third lesson that can be gleaned is that our growth has to be a continual process. We don't see where Ezekiel backed out of the water because he didn't like getting wet or because he didn't like the temperature of the water. No matter how uncomfortable things may get or if we don't like the process, we must keep going forward in Jesus. Be determined that there is no other choice.
The forth lesson is that we need to trust God enough to fully be submersed in him. When we are fully submersed in him, he has the ability to move us in whatever direction he so desires and all we can do is to go with the flow for he has full control.
The degree we are willing to go in determines how deep we go in God. This example shows us an outward expression of an inward work. An inward work is revealed by an outward expression. God has no limits on the depth that we can go in him. How deep will you and can you go?
Yes, the measuring stick. Two people holding a measuring stick, that with each pass it becomes lower and lower and lower. People all around are simultaneously yelling "How low can you go?". The lower you go, the closer to the prize you get! I am humble enough to admit that I have never won!
There is a way to measure how deep we can go in God. It is found in Ezekiel 47. Ezekiel was led by a man with a measuring stick into the river of life that flowed from the temple of God. At first it was ankle deep, then it was knee deep. As they continued it became waist deep and eventually reached the depth that Ezekiel was submersed and had to swim. What we see here is a spiritual picture that we can apply in the natural.
The first lesson we can glean here is that Ezekiel didn't choose to simply stand on the river bank and watch the water run by him. In other words he didn't want the Spirit of God to run by him. By taking a step into the water, there was a willingness to experience a depth of God that he did not know.
The second lesson that we can glean is that Ezekiel didn't settle for just remaining in ankle deep water. He went to the next step. We need to be ever willing to go to the next level in God.
The third lesson that can be gleaned is that our growth has to be a continual process. We don't see where Ezekiel backed out of the water because he didn't like getting wet or because he didn't like the temperature of the water. No matter how uncomfortable things may get or if we don't like the process, we must keep going forward in Jesus. Be determined that there is no other choice.
The forth lesson is that we need to trust God enough to fully be submersed in him. When we are fully submersed in him, he has the ability to move us in whatever direction he so desires and all we can do is to go with the flow for he has full control.
The degree we are willing to go in determines how deep we go in God. This example shows us an outward expression of an inward work. An inward work is revealed by an outward expression. God has no limits on the depth that we can go in him. How deep will you and can you go?
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Growth Spurts part 4
We could each write a story as to the wonderful work that the Lord, Jesus Christ has done in each of our lives. What a wonderful book that would be to encourage others in their faith. Hey, I may be on to something..."Testimonies from a Covenant of Grace". I just love a good project so you better get your pencils sharpened!
Today I am going to share with you a humbling lesson. I cannot use any examples because I am still trying to remove something that at times is too big...it's my plank. Just when false pride kicks in and tries to convince me that the plank is finally gone, God comes in and reveals its great existence! Yes, we go back to the word of God that says, " Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?" It does continue on by stating that if we do that, then we are hypocrites. What an ugly word!
There are plenty of opportunities daily that someone "bugs us". They irritate us, they offend us, they have embarrassed us...the list could go on and on. And of course we in return have even gone to others to let them know just what a jerk so and so is (come on be truthful...all sin is common to man!). But how often do we go to God and ask him why did that irritate, offend or embarrass me? Many times it is these very things, in sawdust form, that can be found to be a plank in our own eyes. The true problem is, that we become so consumed with pride as we check out and speak about someones sawdust that that we don't fall down in humility before God and cry out with a heart of humility, "It's me oh God that is in need of your cleansing!".
For two years now, my prayer has been for God to reveal to me issues of pride in my life. He has been very faithful in his revelation and I am so very thankful. It has not been easy; some pills are hard to swallow. At first, the plank is big and easier to see, but as the plank became smaller, the inward work became deeper. An outward appearance without inward character is not what God desires.
No one else can do this work for you. And to be honest, the type of work God has been doing in my life over the past two years, I don't think I would want anyone else to see. It's been pretty ugly... but then again sin is never beautiful.
Last week I wrote a truly beautiful song. It is beautiful not because I have written it, but because God has has written and inspired it. I leave you with these anointed words from the song that convey the cry of God's heart:
"Come now, let us reason together," says the Lord.
"Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow..."
(Isaiah 1:18)
Today I am going to share with you a humbling lesson. I cannot use any examples because I am still trying to remove something that at times is too big...it's my plank. Just when false pride kicks in and tries to convince me that the plank is finally gone, God comes in and reveals its great existence! Yes, we go back to the word of God that says, " Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?" It does continue on by stating that if we do that, then we are hypocrites. What an ugly word!
There are plenty of opportunities daily that someone "bugs us". They irritate us, they offend us, they have embarrassed us...the list could go on and on. And of course we in return have even gone to others to let them know just what a jerk so and so is (come on be truthful...all sin is common to man!). But how often do we go to God and ask him why did that irritate, offend or embarrass me? Many times it is these very things, in sawdust form, that can be found to be a plank in our own eyes. The true problem is, that we become so consumed with pride as we check out and speak about someones sawdust that that we don't fall down in humility before God and cry out with a heart of humility, "It's me oh God that is in need of your cleansing!".
For two years now, my prayer has been for God to reveal to me issues of pride in my life. He has been very faithful in his revelation and I am so very thankful. It has not been easy; some pills are hard to swallow. At first, the plank is big and easier to see, but as the plank became smaller, the inward work became deeper. An outward appearance without inward character is not what God desires.
No one else can do this work for you. And to be honest, the type of work God has been doing in my life over the past two years, I don't think I would want anyone else to see. It's been pretty ugly... but then again sin is never beautiful.
Last week I wrote a truly beautiful song. It is beautiful not because I have written it, but because God has has written and inspired it. I leave you with these anointed words from the song that convey the cry of God's heart:
"Come now, let us reason together," says the Lord.
"Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow..."
(Isaiah 1:18)
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Growth Spurts part 3
We have been given the mind of Christ, therefore we should also have the attitude of Christ. Attitudes are conceived in our minds, nurtured in our hearts and finally given birth through our mouths.
Everything we do, we should do unto the Lord. That is how God's word instructs us to serve in the kingdom of God. Be it to our husbands, our children, our brothers and sisters as well as to our neighbors, we are to serve them as unto the Lord.
Serving as unto the Lord has required another growth spurt for me. Attitude adjustments have been rather high on the list of things to work on!
I have found that not everyone thinks the same (it has taken 44 years, but I am finally getting it!). Not just in how we do things, but in doctrinal issues, thoughts as to what is morally right, and even in interpretation as to what God's word says.
Yet in the body of Christ we are called to unity. The greatest challenge seems to be how to serve unto the Lord while maintaining obedience to God's word and in keeping an attitude that rejoices in the Lord always. Questions arise as to when to speak and how to speak. How to consider what is being said and how to respond with speech that reveals that you serve the Lord God Almighty. How to redirect incorrect attitudes or thoughts to line up with God's word, his heart, and his thoughts.
It is never easy, but to be honest, it starts with us. Where is our heart attitude at for serving the Lord in the body of Christ? Will you be willing to give up the way you want to do things and consider someone else's? Sometimes it means that we state what we know and believe to be right so that we are right before God and then we have to drop it and let God deal with people. Or perhaps God will cause you to keep fighting for what is right. Sometimes we have to take a stand and speak up when we feel that something that wants to be done may cause an offense to someone (love does protect) and other times God leads us to be silent.
Our thoughts and attitudes have to line up with God's word. They have to be disciplined to be obedient to God's word. It takes time in God's presence and it takes the circumstance in our everyday life for God to teach us how to maintain an attitude of service unto the Lord. Oh, to have an attitude of rejoicing in the Lord always while serving the Lord in all aspects of our lives...how blissful that would be!
Everything we do, we should do unto the Lord. That is how God's word instructs us to serve in the kingdom of God. Be it to our husbands, our children, our brothers and sisters as well as to our neighbors, we are to serve them as unto the Lord.
Serving as unto the Lord has required another growth spurt for me. Attitude adjustments have been rather high on the list of things to work on!
I have found that not everyone thinks the same (it has taken 44 years, but I am finally getting it!). Not just in how we do things, but in doctrinal issues, thoughts as to what is morally right, and even in interpretation as to what God's word says.
Yet in the body of Christ we are called to unity. The greatest challenge seems to be how to serve unto the Lord while maintaining obedience to God's word and in keeping an attitude that rejoices in the Lord always. Questions arise as to when to speak and how to speak. How to consider what is being said and how to respond with speech that reveals that you serve the Lord God Almighty. How to redirect incorrect attitudes or thoughts to line up with God's word, his heart, and his thoughts.
It is never easy, but to be honest, it starts with us. Where is our heart attitude at for serving the Lord in the body of Christ? Will you be willing to give up the way you want to do things and consider someone else's? Sometimes it means that we state what we know and believe to be right so that we are right before God and then we have to drop it and let God deal with people. Or perhaps God will cause you to keep fighting for what is right. Sometimes we have to take a stand and speak up when we feel that something that wants to be done may cause an offense to someone (love does protect) and other times God leads us to be silent.
Our thoughts and attitudes have to line up with God's word. They have to be disciplined to be obedient to God's word. It takes time in God's presence and it takes the circumstance in our everyday life for God to teach us how to maintain an attitude of service unto the Lord. Oh, to have an attitude of rejoicing in the Lord always while serving the Lord in all aspects of our lives...how blissful that would be!
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Growth Spurts part 2
2 Cor 11:30 says, "If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness." OK, I am going to expose one of my weakness to you today so that I can truely boast of the work of the Holy Spirit in my life and so that God may be glorified through my weaknesses.
I struggle with trust. I struggle with trusting God and I struggle with trusting others. I have asked the Lord to help strengthen those areas that are weak. In that he has revealed to me as to why I stuggle with trust and areas that are still in need of work. He is always faithful to reveal when we ask.
I am finding that as I am trying to build and maintain unity that God is doing a tremendous growth in me in the area of trust. I am a worker through and through in the kingdom and God has gifted me with the ability to administrate. I love to plan things and I love to "do" things, and I must admit that I like to have them done in a certain way. They don't have to be done "my way". But I like to walk in excellence and I want to make sure that what needs to get done, gets done, and gets done with excellence. Therefore, I like to do them myself because I can trust myself to do the things that need to get done.
When I do things with just God and I (and that has taken a level of trust!), then I have not taken the opportunity to learn how to function as part of a unified body of believers. Working on a project with others causes me to have to trust on a whole new level.
It is not the other person that I have to trust, but I need to trust God at work in them and through them. My ways are not God's ways and if they didn't do their task with excellence, or if they even forgot to do it at all, is not God able to take care of the need? If God wants something done that someone else forgot to do, he is more than able to send someone else to do it or will give you the grace to do it when the time comes (you just have to keep a good attitude!!!).
If I don't trust God at work through others, I will always have to do the work alone. That sure would make me pretty lonely! It also wouldn't allow others to grow, use their gifts, of perhaps even allow their light to shine.
If we want to be a part of a unified body then we will have to give up control and trust God and learn to function as one...even if there are a few glitches along the way. We sure do grow as a body when we learn to trust each other and to trust God.
I struggle with trust. I struggle with trusting God and I struggle with trusting others. I have asked the Lord to help strengthen those areas that are weak. In that he has revealed to me as to why I stuggle with trust and areas that are still in need of work. He is always faithful to reveal when we ask.
I am finding that as I am trying to build and maintain unity that God is doing a tremendous growth in me in the area of trust. I am a worker through and through in the kingdom and God has gifted me with the ability to administrate. I love to plan things and I love to "do" things, and I must admit that I like to have them done in a certain way. They don't have to be done "my way". But I like to walk in excellence and I want to make sure that what needs to get done, gets done, and gets done with excellence. Therefore, I like to do them myself because I can trust myself to do the things that need to get done.
When I do things with just God and I (and that has taken a level of trust!), then I have not taken the opportunity to learn how to function as part of a unified body of believers. Working on a project with others causes me to have to trust on a whole new level.
It is not the other person that I have to trust, but I need to trust God at work in them and through them. My ways are not God's ways and if they didn't do their task with excellence, or if they even forgot to do it at all, is not God able to take care of the need? If God wants something done that someone else forgot to do, he is more than able to send someone else to do it or will give you the grace to do it when the time comes (you just have to keep a good attitude!!!).
If I don't trust God at work through others, I will always have to do the work alone. That sure would make me pretty lonely! It also wouldn't allow others to grow, use their gifts, of perhaps even allow their light to shine.
If we want to be a part of a unified body then we will have to give up control and trust God and learn to function as one...even if there are a few glitches along the way. We sure do grow as a body when we learn to trust each other and to trust God.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Growth Spurts
As I have walked with the Lord, (and I am sure you can attest to this as well for your life), I can honestly say that there has been consistent growth. Yet as I take an overview of the past 15 years, there have been a few times that I have experienced growth spurts. As with the natural growth spurts we experienced in our childhood years, we also experience growth spurts in our spiritual years.
God has been teaching me so much about unity. The Bible tells us, "How good it is to dwell in unity..." , and to "maintain unity through the bond of peace."
God is building His Church, He is preparing His bride. He wants his church unified!
I have been challenged to take a look at the part that I particularly play in the role of unity. How do I promote it? How do I exemplify it? There is a lot that goes into unity and maintaining it. Unity takes a lot of hard work; it takes a lot of sacrifice.
God has been showing me so many areas where division, strife and offense try to come into my life and cause me not to walk in unity. But I do not only want to discern where the enemy is at work, but I want God to do a deep work in me and reveal to me the root of these attacks in my life. I am finding that for each onslaught of division, strife and offense, that pride is the root.
God has not called me to nurture the hurts of offense and pamper them so that they can stay safe and sound within my spirit. Pampering and nurturing offenses only keeps us bound from ever experiencing the true peace of unity. The Bible tells us that every root not of God will be pulled up - it will be removed! Being that we have been crucified with Christ, and that it is no longer us who lives but Christ that lives within us, doesn't it make sense to want nothing in us that is not of Christ?
Deep calls to deep. The greatest growth in my life is not growth that can be measured outwardly, but will be expressed out of the overflow of my heart through the deep inward working of the Holy Spirit.
God has been teaching me so much about unity. The Bible tells us, "How good it is to dwell in unity..." , and to "maintain unity through the bond of peace."
God is building His Church, He is preparing His bride. He wants his church unified!
I have been challenged to take a look at the part that I particularly play in the role of unity. How do I promote it? How do I exemplify it? There is a lot that goes into unity and maintaining it. Unity takes a lot of hard work; it takes a lot of sacrifice.
God has been showing me so many areas where division, strife and offense try to come into my life and cause me not to walk in unity. But I do not only want to discern where the enemy is at work, but I want God to do a deep work in me and reveal to me the root of these attacks in my life. I am finding that for each onslaught of division, strife and offense, that pride is the root.
God has not called me to nurture the hurts of offense and pamper them so that they can stay safe and sound within my spirit. Pampering and nurturing offenses only keeps us bound from ever experiencing the true peace of unity. The Bible tells us that every root not of God will be pulled up - it will be removed! Being that we have been crucified with Christ, and that it is no longer us who lives but Christ that lives within us, doesn't it make sense to want nothing in us that is not of Christ?
Deep calls to deep. The greatest growth in my life is not growth that can be measured outwardly, but will be expressed out of the overflow of my heart through the deep inward working of the Holy Spirit.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Every Member
Have you ever noticed that each time you read a scripture that God speaks something a little different to you? He builds upon His word and causes you to grow in maturity as to how you think, feel, speak, respond, and love.
This morning I was reading a familiar passage from 1 Cor 12:22-25. This is what it says, "On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has combined the members of the body and has given greater honor to the parts that lacked it, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other.
After reading this, I was think of our particular church body. How blessed we are to have each and every individual that we have in our church. Each person has a very special function and each person is vitally needed. But do we let each other know that?
We need to be a source of encouragement to each other. Sometimes we take one another for granted and do not realize that perhaps someone is feeling insecure or not needed or maybe not even wanted. Perhaps someone struggles with rejection or have issues with a lack of confidence.
We need to take the time to let each know that they are indispensable. We need to find ways to show honor, and treat with modesty those that are in need. We need to help strengthen those that are weak. That is what the body of Christ does. We should not show partiality to any one part for that may hold the possibility of causing division, but we should show equal concern for each and every person.
Being a part of the body that functions together in unity is what God has called us to. We need to keep the body healthy by building it up and strengthening each and every member. What a valuable tool the spirit of encouragement is. Take time to ask God how you can be a source of encouragement that shows appreciation and gives honor to those in your church body. The more we build up, the stronger we become!
This morning I was reading a familiar passage from 1 Cor 12:22-25. This is what it says, "On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has combined the members of the body and has given greater honor to the parts that lacked it, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other.
After reading this, I was think of our particular church body. How blessed we are to have each and every individual that we have in our church. Each person has a very special function and each person is vitally needed. But do we let each other know that?
We need to be a source of encouragement to each other. Sometimes we take one another for granted and do not realize that perhaps someone is feeling insecure or not needed or maybe not even wanted. Perhaps someone struggles with rejection or have issues with a lack of confidence.
We need to take the time to let each know that they are indispensable. We need to find ways to show honor, and treat with modesty those that are in need. We need to help strengthen those that are weak. That is what the body of Christ does. We should not show partiality to any one part for that may hold the possibility of causing division, but we should show equal concern for each and every person.
Being a part of the body that functions together in unity is what God has called us to. We need to keep the body healthy by building it up and strengthening each and every member. What a valuable tool the spirit of encouragement is. Take time to ask God how you can be a source of encouragement that shows appreciation and gives honor to those in your church body. The more we build up, the stronger we become!
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Food For Thought
I so enjoy spending time with my son, especially the times we have doing his daily devotions. I also enjoy our time we have together cooking. He has actually gotten to be quite good at preparing meals as well as deserts. He practices his skills often and is even becoming very creative. Recently he made the BEST cheesecake I have ever had in my life. As any proud mother would do, I have encouraged him to enter the recipe in a contest!
Learning to cook takes a lot of time and he enjoys it so much that it has had a recent tendency to cut into our devotion time. During the time we would normally do our devotions, he now uses to cook himself a gourmet breakfast. With a full belly, we pray the "send off to school prayer" and off he goes for the day. His belly may be full, but I am unsettled knowing that his spirit is not.
This morning I made mention that he needs to start to cook earlier because we are not finding time to get his devotion done. His response was, "Well I go to church on Sunday's". My response was, "Would you like it if you only ate one meal a week?" That question was immediately followed by a "NO". I explained that if you don't study God's word daily that your spirit man is going to be starved just like your stomach would be starved if you didn't feed it food. With that, he took a quick look at the clock and saw he had 2 minutes before he had to leave, he grabbed his devotional book and his Bible and said "We have to go quick!". I encouraged his wise choice!
It is so important that we take every opportunity, no matter how small, to feed our children the word of God. Their spirit's need to be strengthened by the Word so that they may stand against the temptations they encounter, and so that they will by young men and women whose lights shine in dark places, and so that they will not choose to compromise their faith. The list could go on and on.
Take time to feed their spirit's as you do their stomach's. Their growth depends on it!
Learning to cook takes a lot of time and he enjoys it so much that it has had a recent tendency to cut into our devotion time. During the time we would normally do our devotions, he now uses to cook himself a gourmet breakfast. With a full belly, we pray the "send off to school prayer" and off he goes for the day. His belly may be full, but I am unsettled knowing that his spirit is not.
This morning I made mention that he needs to start to cook earlier because we are not finding time to get his devotion done. His response was, "Well I go to church on Sunday's". My response was, "Would you like it if you only ate one meal a week?" That question was immediately followed by a "NO". I explained that if you don't study God's word daily that your spirit man is going to be starved just like your stomach would be starved if you didn't feed it food. With that, he took a quick look at the clock and saw he had 2 minutes before he had to leave, he grabbed his devotional book and his Bible and said "We have to go quick!". I encouraged his wise choice!
It is so important that we take every opportunity, no matter how small, to feed our children the word of God. Their spirit's need to be strengthened by the Word so that they may stand against the temptations they encounter, and so that they will by young men and women whose lights shine in dark places, and so that they will not choose to compromise their faith. The list could go on and on.
Take time to feed their spirit's as you do their stomach's. Their growth depends on it!
Monday, November 3, 2008
If You Can?
It was such a great word that was brought forth yesterday. It was both very convicting as well as very encouraging. How we are so in need of God's word to wash our thoughts of all conformity and to transform them to think and believe as God does!
Doubt always try to displace belief. They are two rival emotions. We need to remember though, that we are not to walk by emotions, but by the spirit. Emotions are flesh, Spirit is God (the Word). Every circumstance that arises will test how we choose to walk. The flesh always seems to be the first response that is triggered to arise. But we who know the word of God make a quick choice to push our emotions down and command our spirit to rise up!
No matter what we are walking through, we must choose to walk by faith and not by sight. Faith is not attached to how we "feel" but to the word of God we "stand" on.
When Jesus encountered a boy with an evil spirit, the father said (Mark 9:22), "But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us." Words of faith do not say "But if you can". We know that these were not words of faith by Jesus response back to him. Jesus said, " If you can? Everything is possible for him who believes." (Mark 9:23) Jesus took this mans doubt, and showed him what was possible if he believed.
Doubt will hinder our ability to believe. The Truth dispels doubt for the Truth says, "EVERYTHING is POSSIBLE for him who BELIEVES."
Take God's word and allow it to become truth in your mind. Then let this truth you know in your mind, become the passion in your heart. Speak forth what you know is truth in your mind and heart, for it is out of the overflow of the heart, that your mouth speaks belief.
Doubt always try to displace belief. They are two rival emotions. We need to remember though, that we are not to walk by emotions, but by the spirit. Emotions are flesh, Spirit is God (the Word). Every circumstance that arises will test how we choose to walk. The flesh always seems to be the first response that is triggered to arise. But we who know the word of God make a quick choice to push our emotions down and command our spirit to rise up!
No matter what we are walking through, we must choose to walk by faith and not by sight. Faith is not attached to how we "feel" but to the word of God we "stand" on.
When Jesus encountered a boy with an evil spirit, the father said (Mark 9:22), "But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us." Words of faith do not say "But if you can". We know that these were not words of faith by Jesus response back to him. Jesus said, " If you can? Everything is possible for him who believes." (Mark 9:23) Jesus took this mans doubt, and showed him what was possible if he believed.
Doubt will hinder our ability to believe. The Truth dispels doubt for the Truth says, "EVERYTHING is POSSIBLE for him who BELIEVES."
Take God's word and allow it to become truth in your mind. Then let this truth you know in your mind, become the passion in your heart. Speak forth what you know is truth in your mind and heart, for it is out of the overflow of the heart, that your mouth speaks belief.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Words and Thoughts
The focus of devotion time this morning with my son, Samuel, was all about our words and our thoughts. We based our discussion on Psalm 19:14 which says, "May the words of my mouth and the thoughts of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer."
Our mouths and our hearts always go together. What is in one, comes out the other. Out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks.
Let's be determined today to live our lives in a way that is pleasing to God - in all our words and in all our thoughts!
Our mouths and our hearts always go together. What is in one, comes out the other. Out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks.
Let's be determined today to live our lives in a way that is pleasing to God - in all our words and in all our thoughts!
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
When Jesus Speaks
Storms of life can be so frightening. They send us in directions we weren't intending on going. In Acts, we see where the storms sent their ship off the course they were navigating. Yet where they landed, God used them mightily.
In Mark we see another storm that arose as Jesus and the disciples had embarked to go to the other side. As the storm worsened the disciples awoke Jesus to see if he even cared that they were going to drown. Jesus rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet be still!" Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. He proceeded to speak to his disciples, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?"
To my friend that sent me beautiful scripture yesterday, thank you. As I spoke it over myself and reread it last night, it brought a calmness to the fear that was raging.
When Jesus speaks, there comes a calmness.
In Mark we see another storm that arose as Jesus and the disciples had embarked to go to the other side. As the storm worsened the disciples awoke Jesus to see if he even cared that they were going to drown. Jesus rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet be still!" Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. He proceeded to speak to his disciples, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?"
To my friend that sent me beautiful scripture yesterday, thank you. As I spoke it over myself and reread it last night, it brought a calmness to the fear that was raging.
When Jesus speaks, there comes a calmness.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Believe It Or Not
We always have a choice when confronted with two opposing ideas. What we believe will shape what we choose to believe.
It all goes back to God's word. Do you believe that it is true? Do you believe that it is the divine antidote for everything you have need of? Do you believe that it is the very balm that heals you? Do you believe that it holds the power to bring deliverance from the enemy that rises against you?
Choosing to believe is vital to walking by faith and not by sight. It calls us to walk in ways that are not necessarily familiar to us. It causes us to walk and think in a whole different realm - even when other's can't see it.
Today I am choosing to draw away from every enemy that is trying to confront me. There is a place I have learned through other trials, to run to. There is a song waiting to burst forth; a song of comfort and a song of deliverance. A song I choose to sing under the shadow of His wing as he brings me great comfort and rest; as He pours truth and strength into my spirit.
Today I choose to believe and cling to the truths found in Psalm 91. Verses 14 and 15 say, "Because he loves me," says the Lord, "I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him."
I believe God and I believe His word.
It all goes back to God's word. Do you believe that it is true? Do you believe that it is the divine antidote for everything you have need of? Do you believe that it is the very balm that heals you? Do you believe that it holds the power to bring deliverance from the enemy that rises against you?
Choosing to believe is vital to walking by faith and not by sight. It calls us to walk in ways that are not necessarily familiar to us. It causes us to walk and think in a whole different realm - even when other's can't see it.
Today I am choosing to draw away from every enemy that is trying to confront me. There is a place I have learned through other trials, to run to. There is a song waiting to burst forth; a song of comfort and a song of deliverance. A song I choose to sing under the shadow of His wing as he brings me great comfort and rest; as He pours truth and strength into my spirit.
Today I choose to believe and cling to the truths found in Psalm 91. Verses 14 and 15 say, "Because he loves me," says the Lord, "I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him."
I believe God and I believe His word.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Wait and See
The same theme came across the pages of my reading. God is still speaking; still encouraging. He so wants us to understand him in a greater way.
Job 9:10-11 says, "He performs wonders that cannot be fathomed, miracles that cannot be counted. When he passes me, I cannot see him; when he goes by, I cannot perceive him."
Do we ever stop to think throughout our day, just how present God is? The truth and reality is that he is "ever present". Not a moment in time, is he not there with us. How often worry, doubt and fear blind us from his whereabouts.
Eyes of faith choose to see where God is, and knows that God is everywhere. Even in our most difficult times, when it feels like we have been abandoned, we need to keep our hope in the truth of his word for he is an ever present help in times of trouble. God is all around us even when we feel we are all alone.
When it seems that there are no changes to our circumstances, just stand still and know that God is there. He is doing a work and building a time that will bring about our deliverance, our healing, our provision. Just wait and see.
Job 9:10-11 says, "He performs wonders that cannot be fathomed, miracles that cannot be counted. When he passes me, I cannot see him; when he goes by, I cannot perceive him."
Do we ever stop to think throughout our day, just how present God is? The truth and reality is that he is "ever present". Not a moment in time, is he not there with us. How often worry, doubt and fear blind us from his whereabouts.
Eyes of faith choose to see where God is, and knows that God is everywhere. Even in our most difficult times, when it feels like we have been abandoned, we need to keep our hope in the truth of his word for he is an ever present help in times of trouble. God is all around us even when we feel we are all alone.
When it seems that there are no changes to our circumstances, just stand still and know that God is there. He is doing a work and building a time that will bring about our deliverance, our healing, our provision. Just wait and see.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
A Different Outlook
I have begun a new book of the Bible - I am now reading from the book of Job. Within each chapter of this book, there are opportunities to enter into a new chapter of how we think and respond to circumstances in our lives.
Conversations with people often consist of the trials and circumstances that they are experiencing. They are filled with "woooooow is me", "doom and gloom", and hold a lie that "I can't get out of this pit". It's like people are chained to bad stuff and can't get released. They have almost surrendered to the fact that this is what life has offered them; and they settle for it.
But Job's attitude was simply amazing. Yes, he recognized the reality of what was happening to him and around him, but he chose to look at things from a different viewpoint. He KNEW who God was!
Job 5:8-9 says, "But if it were I, I would appeal to God; I would lay my cause before him. He performs wonders that cannot be fathomed, miracles that cannot be counted."
What hope is found in these words. That's where we have to put our hope...in God's holy word. Not only for our own lives, but to encourage those around us.
When you are feeling down and out, and trials are pressing on all sides, don't believe the lie, remember the truth and hope that is found in God's word. It is a different outlook that will help you to turn a new chapter in your life and in the lives of those around you.
Conversations with people often consist of the trials and circumstances that they are experiencing. They are filled with "woooooow is me", "doom and gloom", and hold a lie that "I can't get out of this pit". It's like people are chained to bad stuff and can't get released. They have almost surrendered to the fact that this is what life has offered them; and they settle for it.
But Job's attitude was simply amazing. Yes, he recognized the reality of what was happening to him and around him, but he chose to look at things from a different viewpoint. He KNEW who God was!
Job 5:8-9 says, "But if it were I, I would appeal to God; I would lay my cause before him. He performs wonders that cannot be fathomed, miracles that cannot be counted."
What hope is found in these words. That's where we have to put our hope...in God's holy word. Not only for our own lives, but to encourage those around us.
When you are feeling down and out, and trials are pressing on all sides, don't believe the lie, remember the truth and hope that is found in God's word. It is a different outlook that will help you to turn a new chapter in your life and in the lives of those around you.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Give What You Have
Have you ever wrestled with the thought that you don't have what it is that someone is in need of? Some peoples needs may seem too great. The job may seem to big.
This morning while reading the Word, I found myself being greatly convicted. See, the truth is, that through the power of the Holy Spirit, I have been given exactly what each person is in need of. That is the name of Jesus!
Acts 3:6 reveals to us a statement that Peter made when he came across a crippled man. He said, "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk."
We don't need to have "stuff" to help solve peoples issues. We need to speak the name of Jesus. Jesus. What a powerful, authoritative name that is. Jesus. The name that holds healing, deliverance and the name that sets captives free. Jesus. The name above all names.
In verse 7 something else is revealed that Peter did. "Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man's feet and ankles became strong." Peter used the name of Jesus and he put to work his faith as he reached out and took hold of the man helping him to get back on his feet again.
I think that is what we are to do also. Use the name of Jesus, and then put forth our faith by reaching out as we help others to get back on their feet again.
There are people out there crippled that need to hear the name of Jesus and to see the manifestation of the power of His name in their lives. They also need someone who is willing to reach out and help them to stand up and to help strengthen the path beneath them so that they can walk upright again. Give what you have, the powerful name of Jesus and your helping hand.
This morning while reading the Word, I found myself being greatly convicted. See, the truth is, that through the power of the Holy Spirit, I have been given exactly what each person is in need of. That is the name of Jesus!
Acts 3:6 reveals to us a statement that Peter made when he came across a crippled man. He said, "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk."
We don't need to have "stuff" to help solve peoples issues. We need to speak the name of Jesus. Jesus. What a powerful, authoritative name that is. Jesus. The name that holds healing, deliverance and the name that sets captives free. Jesus. The name above all names.
In verse 7 something else is revealed that Peter did. "Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man's feet and ankles became strong." Peter used the name of Jesus and he put to work his faith as he reached out and took hold of the man helping him to get back on his feet again.
I think that is what we are to do also. Use the name of Jesus, and then put forth our faith by reaching out as we help others to get back on their feet again.
There are people out there crippled that need to hear the name of Jesus and to see the manifestation of the power of His name in their lives. They also need someone who is willing to reach out and help them to stand up and to help strengthen the path beneath them so that they can walk upright again. Give what you have, the powerful name of Jesus and your helping hand.
Friday, October 10, 2008
A Monumental Declaration
This mornings' devotion time with my son was a lesson that is to be well learned. It was entitled "Every Step Counts". It spoke how when we take one step (or ten steps) in the wrong direction, that we will one day have to retrace those steps in order to walk in the right direction. The number of wrong steps will determine the number of right steps. Sounds like a simple lesson until you are the one that has to put those steps into action.
Our nation of greed has caused us to make many steps in the wrong direction and now, as a country, we are going to have to learn to turn from the sin of greed in order to take some steps in the right direction. I got thinking of the cliche this morning that says, "Put your money where your mouth is". As a nation, our currency still makes a declaration of "In God We Trust". Yet our choices have been far from that truth.
With each dollar we spend we are going to have to start remembering that it is in God that we trust. The country is looking for a Savior right now to pull us out of this economic mess. Will it be the next president? NO! Our only Savior is Jesus Christ! As a country we need to humble ourselves and repent of the love of money as it has exalted itself above God.
The economy is in quite a frightening state right now. As Christians, we need to stay focused on God and keep our trust in Him. God is the source of every provision we have need of. We don't need to bow to fear but to the fear of God. To fear God is to hate what is evil. Greed is evil.
I love the translation we read from in our study today. Galatians 6:7 reads, "Remember that you can't ignore God and get away with it. You will always reap what you sow!" I do believe this is the principle that we are seeing at work as a nation right now. As a nation, I pray that we will turn from our sin and start walking in a new direction - one that declares that "In God We Trust."
Our nation of greed has caused us to make many steps in the wrong direction and now, as a country, we are going to have to learn to turn from the sin of greed in order to take some steps in the right direction. I got thinking of the cliche this morning that says, "Put your money where your mouth is". As a nation, our currency still makes a declaration of "In God We Trust". Yet our choices have been far from that truth.
With each dollar we spend we are going to have to start remembering that it is in God that we trust. The country is looking for a Savior right now to pull us out of this economic mess. Will it be the next president? NO! Our only Savior is Jesus Christ! As a country we need to humble ourselves and repent of the love of money as it has exalted itself above God.
The economy is in quite a frightening state right now. As Christians, we need to stay focused on God and keep our trust in Him. God is the source of every provision we have need of. We don't need to bow to fear but to the fear of God. To fear God is to hate what is evil. Greed is evil.
I love the translation we read from in our study today. Galatians 6:7 reads, "Remember that you can't ignore God and get away with it. You will always reap what you sow!" I do believe this is the principle that we are seeing at work as a nation right now. As a nation, I pray that we will turn from our sin and start walking in a new direction - one that declares that "In God We Trust."
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Make Up Your Mind
This morning I was reading in Luke chapter 21. It speaks of the signs of the end of the age. "Not a pretty sight", would be a good phrase to use. It can be very frightening to think of what might happen.
There was a scripture, that as I read it, it seemed to leap off the page and beg me to put it into application in so many areas of my life. In verse 14 it says, "But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves."
Many times I have fallen as a victim of fear as I have laid sleepless in bed and as I have tried to function throughout my days. When fear hits, it consumes every thought I have. But the above scripture gives fuel to guide my spirit in a new direction.
Yes, this scripture is speaking of end times. But it can also speak to us how to end our times of worry and fear. It can be applied into all areas of our lives.
BEFORE anything arises we need to MAKE UP OUR MINDS NOT TO WORRY! For the start of each new day, when our feet hit the bedside floor, we can speak with great confidence that "I have made up my mind not to worry today".
When we go into situations with our minds already made up then we will be determined not to waiver. When worry rears its ugly head we will give it no place of thought, for we have already made up our minds not to worry.
Yes we are in the end times. It time to make up our minds not to worry and put an end to the times of fear.
There was a scripture, that as I read it, it seemed to leap off the page and beg me to put it into application in so many areas of my life. In verse 14 it says, "But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves."
Many times I have fallen as a victim of fear as I have laid sleepless in bed and as I have tried to function throughout my days. When fear hits, it consumes every thought I have. But the above scripture gives fuel to guide my spirit in a new direction.
Yes, this scripture is speaking of end times. But it can also speak to us how to end our times of worry and fear. It can be applied into all areas of our lives.
BEFORE anything arises we need to MAKE UP OUR MINDS NOT TO WORRY! For the start of each new day, when our feet hit the bedside floor, we can speak with great confidence that "I have made up my mind not to worry today".
When we go into situations with our minds already made up then we will be determined not to waiver. When worry rears its ugly head we will give it no place of thought, for we have already made up our minds not to worry.
Yes we are in the end times. It time to make up our minds not to worry and put an end to the times of fear.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Results
So many emotions swirl within us on a daily basis. Sometimes joy, sometimes peace. Sometimes fear and anxiety, sometimes doubt.
The truth of God's word brings much relief to our troubled spirits. It's the truth that gives us such joy, peace and hope. Without it brings fear and doubt. Knowing God's word is imperative for it is the divine antidote to whatever it is we have need of.
This morning as I was reading the words of life, I came across scriptures that just soothed my soul with peace and a warm smile of satisfaction curved my lips.
Psalm 36:5-9 says this, "Your love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies. Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice like the great deep. O Lord, you preserve both man and beast. How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find a refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance of your house; you give them drink from your river of delights. For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light."
The fruits of righteousness are the results of Gods' word being sown into your life.
The truth of God's word brings much relief to our troubled spirits. It's the truth that gives us such joy, peace and hope. Without it brings fear and doubt. Knowing God's word is imperative for it is the divine antidote to whatever it is we have need of.
This morning as I was reading the words of life, I came across scriptures that just soothed my soul with peace and a warm smile of satisfaction curved my lips.
Psalm 36:5-9 says this, "Your love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies. Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice like the great deep. O Lord, you preserve both man and beast. How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find a refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance of your house; you give them drink from your river of delights. For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light."
The fruits of righteousness are the results of Gods' word being sown into your life.
Monday, October 6, 2008
One More Thing
We know that the road gets more narrow. God has a way of continuously stripping away the things that he sees would keep us from reaching our final destination.
It takes a determined follower to have the courage to go before God and say, "OK, what's next?"Little by little we have chosen to rid our lives of the seemingly "big" stuff. But if we really want to continue to walk further on the narrow path, then we will always have to remain humble enough to ask, "What's next?". When we ask one question, we are then posed with another.
In Luke 18:18-30 we read about the Rich Ruler. He didn't commit adultery, he did not murder, he did not steal, he did not give false testimony, and he honored his father and mother. This guy was doning good and Jesus knew it. But Jesus saw he lacked one thing. One thing! There was one thing that was keeping him from truly following him.
Yes, Jesus sees all those things that we are doing right. It pleases him that he can see our progress. But if we are serious about our desire to walk the narrow path, then we need to be courageous enough to ask Jesus to reveal to us the one thing that may be keeping us from truly following him.
Yes, much has already been stripped away. Ask the Lord to show you if there is still one more thing.
It takes a determined follower to have the courage to go before God and say, "OK, what's next?"Little by little we have chosen to rid our lives of the seemingly "big" stuff. But if we really want to continue to walk further on the narrow path, then we will always have to remain humble enough to ask, "What's next?". When we ask one question, we are then posed with another.
In Luke 18:18-30 we read about the Rich Ruler. He didn't commit adultery, he did not murder, he did not steal, he did not give false testimony, and he honored his father and mother. This guy was doning good and Jesus knew it. But Jesus saw he lacked one thing. One thing! There was one thing that was keeping him from truly following him.
Yes, Jesus sees all those things that we are doing right. It pleases him that he can see our progress. But if we are serious about our desire to walk the narrow path, then we need to be courageous enough to ask Jesus to reveal to us the one thing that may be keeping us from truly following him.
Yes, much has already been stripped away. Ask the Lord to show you if there is still one more thing.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
All For One
One sheep. One coin. One son.
Each of these is a separate parable found in Luke 15. The first two parables, the sheep and the coin, teach us one lesson and the parable of the lost son teaches us yet another. Still these three parables are grouped together in one chapter. I love the similarities that these parable portraits paint and the hope that is fed to my spirit.
In the parable of the sheep we see that one out of the ninety-nine sheep is missing. He has left the open space the others were grazing in and had gotten off alone. The shepherd leaves the ninety-nine and goes and finds the one missing. Symbolic of the rejoicing in heaven over the repentance of one sinner.
Next, we see that a woman has 10 silver coins and loses one. She turns her house upside down until she finds it (I can relate to this one!). Again this is symbolic of the rejoicing in heaven over the repentance of one sinner.
Then there was one son who left....and a father who did not go after him.
I have to stop here and ask God why? Why would a shepherd go after a sheep and a woman after a coin and why wouldn't the father go after his son? After all, a child must be more important than a sheep or a coin. Yet the father stayed put.
Fathers are wise. He taught his son the way of the land and the importance of not wandering like every good father does. But this son choose to wander into a "distant land". I believe the difference is in the fact that perhaps that sheep was still remaining on the property owned and tended to by the shepherd, and the coin was still in the house of the owner.
This fathers only choice was to wait for the son to return for he knew that there were great lessons he would learn in that distant land if the father didn't chase after him and try to rescue him from his poor choice. Lessons of loosing everything and experiencing a famine so he would once again recognize that he had a need. Lessons of humility learned by feeding pigs and turning to walk home.
Lessons where the source of true provisions and love are once again restored. The lesson learned as he saw the father filled with compassion running toward him. All so that he could learn the symbolic beauty of forgiveness and of the celebration of coming back to life.
Three parables. All for the love of one.
Each of these is a separate parable found in Luke 15. The first two parables, the sheep and the coin, teach us one lesson and the parable of the lost son teaches us yet another. Still these three parables are grouped together in one chapter. I love the similarities that these parable portraits paint and the hope that is fed to my spirit.
In the parable of the sheep we see that one out of the ninety-nine sheep is missing. He has left the open space the others were grazing in and had gotten off alone. The shepherd leaves the ninety-nine and goes and finds the one missing. Symbolic of the rejoicing in heaven over the repentance of one sinner.
Next, we see that a woman has 10 silver coins and loses one. She turns her house upside down until she finds it (I can relate to this one!). Again this is symbolic of the rejoicing in heaven over the repentance of one sinner.
Then there was one son who left....and a father who did not go after him.
I have to stop here and ask God why? Why would a shepherd go after a sheep and a woman after a coin and why wouldn't the father go after his son? After all, a child must be more important than a sheep or a coin. Yet the father stayed put.
Fathers are wise. He taught his son the way of the land and the importance of not wandering like every good father does. But this son choose to wander into a "distant land". I believe the difference is in the fact that perhaps that sheep was still remaining on the property owned and tended to by the shepherd, and the coin was still in the house of the owner.
This fathers only choice was to wait for the son to return for he knew that there were great lessons he would learn in that distant land if the father didn't chase after him and try to rescue him from his poor choice. Lessons of loosing everything and experiencing a famine so he would once again recognize that he had a need. Lessons of humility learned by feeding pigs and turning to walk home.
Lessons where the source of true provisions and love are once again restored. The lesson learned as he saw the father filled with compassion running toward him. All so that he could learn the symbolic beauty of forgiveness and of the celebration of coming back to life.
Three parables. All for the love of one.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
What Will You Do?
By now, you have hopefully read my last post. By now you have had time to crush any idols of greed that my have been lurking in the dark. By now, God is once again in his rightful place.
As you take in everything that is around you, from your clothes to items in your home to the very car you drive, it is certain to be obvious just how much God has blessed you. Not just that he has blessed you, but he has ABUNDANTLY blessed you. So, now the question is, "What will you do with it"?
Luke 12:48b says, "From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked."
God has not poured tremendous blessings into our lives for our gratification. He has given us much so that we can then do the work of the ministry he has called us to. The food we have is not just meant to fill our belly's, but to fill the stomachs of those who are truly hungry. The cars we have are not meant solely to give us a ride to the mall or to work. It is a means to transport those who are in need of having their souls ministered to.
Everything we have has been given to us with a purpose attached. I think that purpose can be found in sowing and reaping. If we take what God has so richly blessed us with and sow it diligently, then we can expect to see the fruitful harvest.
Giving up what we think is "ours" is much easier when we remember that it really isn't ours - it's God's. He has blessed us with much, and it is our responsibility to use it wisely and to give it generously.
Seeing your willingness to take what God has given you and to give it away for His glory, reveals to God a heart that holds no greed. Do not cling to the things God has given you, but open your hand so that the hand that has blessed you may bless others!
As you take in everything that is around you, from your clothes to items in your home to the very car you drive, it is certain to be obvious just how much God has blessed you. Not just that he has blessed you, but he has ABUNDANTLY blessed you. So, now the question is, "What will you do with it"?
Luke 12:48b says, "From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked."
God has not poured tremendous blessings into our lives for our gratification. He has given us much so that we can then do the work of the ministry he has called us to. The food we have is not just meant to fill our belly's, but to fill the stomachs of those who are truly hungry. The cars we have are not meant solely to give us a ride to the mall or to work. It is a means to transport those who are in need of having their souls ministered to.
Everything we have has been given to us with a purpose attached. I think that purpose can be found in sowing and reaping. If we take what God has so richly blessed us with and sow it diligently, then we can expect to see the fruitful harvest.
Giving up what we think is "ours" is much easier when we remember that it really isn't ours - it's God's. He has blessed us with much, and it is our responsibility to use it wisely and to give it generously.
Seeing your willingness to take what God has given you and to give it away for His glory, reveals to God a heart that holds no greed. Do not cling to the things God has given you, but open your hand so that the hand that has blessed you may bless others!
Monday, September 29, 2008
All Kinds of Greed
We have been warned. But have we taken heed? There are so many traps all around us. From every directions they becon. They are traps of greed.
Luke 12:15 says, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions."
Have you ever thought about all the different kinds of greed that there are? Often we think of greed in terms of money. Greed may be evident if we open our eyes and take a look around our homes. How much "stuff" is found hanging on your walls and scattered across the mantles of table tops gathering dust? How many forgotten table cloths are folded neatly and placed in drawers - some perhaps have never even been taken out of their packaging! What about the surplus in our food closets even though the scales have told us not to buy so much.
Our pockets, our stomachs and our desires can all be places where traps have attached themselves. Our desires should not be for "things", they should be for the courts of the Lord. We need to trust God for his provision.
America is in a mess right now. As a country we have stepped in the traps that greed has set for us and as a nation we will fall if we do not disengage these traps. We have eagerly stepped into them because our flesh desires the "things" of this world instead of the courts of the Lord.
I pray that the nations current financial problems will cause us to wake up to what is really important, make us fall on our faces before God and repent for allowing greed to come in and take hold of us. As Christians, we need to take an honest look at where greed has come into our lives and then remove those idols. God is to be our stronghold not greed - not the desires of our flesh.
We are to have no other God before him. The idols of greed must be destroyed.
Luke 12:15 says, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions."
Have you ever thought about all the different kinds of greed that there are? Often we think of greed in terms of money. Greed may be evident if we open our eyes and take a look around our homes. How much "stuff" is found hanging on your walls and scattered across the mantles of table tops gathering dust? How many forgotten table cloths are folded neatly and placed in drawers - some perhaps have never even been taken out of their packaging! What about the surplus in our food closets even though the scales have told us not to buy so much.
Our pockets, our stomachs and our desires can all be places where traps have attached themselves. Our desires should not be for "things", they should be for the courts of the Lord. We need to trust God for his provision.
America is in a mess right now. As a country we have stepped in the traps that greed has set for us and as a nation we will fall if we do not disengage these traps. We have eagerly stepped into them because our flesh desires the "things" of this world instead of the courts of the Lord.
I pray that the nations current financial problems will cause us to wake up to what is really important, make us fall on our faces before God and repent for allowing greed to come in and take hold of us. As Christians, we need to take an honest look at where greed has come into our lives and then remove those idols. God is to be our stronghold not greed - not the desires of our flesh.
We are to have no other God before him. The idols of greed must be destroyed.
Friday, September 26, 2008
No Going Back
Fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, and cousins. They are the greatest support system that many of us ever had. Think of it. Out of our family structure came the food to eat, the teaching we needed, the comfort for times of mourning, the chicken soup to aid the healing, and the shelter from all our storms.
Then came Jesus. Then came the choice. Do I go back or do I follow?
In Luke 9:59-62 Jesus speaks to two of his new followers as to the cost of following him. What a decision they had to make. It would cost them everything. Everything they ever knew. Every bit of familiarity. Jesus knew that if they went back to say goodbye, that there would be an opportunity not to return.
Once we have come to know Jesus, there can be no going back to our old ways. We can't keep walking with familiarity thinking that we can adapt to Jesus ways. It just doesn't work. As new creations in Christ, the old is gone!
In times when faith is having a weak moment, returning to the old ties of family and friends can often produce further doubt that tries to draw us away. Jesus knows that if we go back, that we will never be committed fully to him.
There is a cost to following Jesus. You must give up so many things - but it is so worth it. As you walk with him, you find that the greatest source of provision, healing, comfort and protection only can come from him and through him.
Have you made up your mind? There is no going back!
Then came Jesus. Then came the choice. Do I go back or do I follow?
In Luke 9:59-62 Jesus speaks to two of his new followers as to the cost of following him. What a decision they had to make. It would cost them everything. Everything they ever knew. Every bit of familiarity. Jesus knew that if they went back to say goodbye, that there would be an opportunity not to return.
Once we have come to know Jesus, there can be no going back to our old ways. We can't keep walking with familiarity thinking that we can adapt to Jesus ways. It just doesn't work. As new creations in Christ, the old is gone!
In times when faith is having a weak moment, returning to the old ties of family and friends can often produce further doubt that tries to draw us away. Jesus knows that if we go back, that we will never be committed fully to him.
There is a cost to following Jesus. You must give up so many things - but it is so worth it. As you walk with him, you find that the greatest source of provision, healing, comfort and protection only can come from him and through him.
Have you made up your mind? There is no going back!
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Go Tell
Jesus. Our Savior, Redeemer, Deliver, Healer, Prince of Peace...
I am sure you can think of a time when Jesus became each of the above to you. In every situation, and in every time of need, he has been faithful. Sometimes we see it in the miraculous, and sometimes we see it in the subtleties.
One dramatic record of deliverance is found in Luke 6:26-39 where Jesus comes across a naked, demon possessed man. In a word, Legion came out and entered the pigs and they rushed down a steep bank and fell into the lake where they drowned. With his nakedness now clothed, he sat at Jesus feet.
When Jesus brings healing and deliverance into our lives, our grateful hearts just want to continue to sit at his feet. We want to travel with Jesus. We want to stay by his side. But we can't. It's not his plan. It wasn't his purpose.
In verse 30 Jesus says, "Return home and tell how much God has done for you." God has done great things in our lives for the purpose of spreading the gospel and sharing our testimonies.
God has not told us to be silent, but to open our mouths. One of the greatest ways we can be most effective is tell everyone we can what he has done in our lives. "Go ye into the world..." is right here in our very own communities. We just have to step outside our doors to meet our neighbor in need next door. Share with the person in line at the grocery store, share with the soccer mom that stands next to you, and share with a friend over coffee.
Share with anyone who will listen. But do go tell!
I am sure you can think of a time when Jesus became each of the above to you. In every situation, and in every time of need, he has been faithful. Sometimes we see it in the miraculous, and sometimes we see it in the subtleties.
One dramatic record of deliverance is found in Luke 6:26-39 where Jesus comes across a naked, demon possessed man. In a word, Legion came out and entered the pigs and they rushed down a steep bank and fell into the lake where they drowned. With his nakedness now clothed, he sat at Jesus feet.
When Jesus brings healing and deliverance into our lives, our grateful hearts just want to continue to sit at his feet. We want to travel with Jesus. We want to stay by his side. But we can't. It's not his plan. It wasn't his purpose.
In verse 30 Jesus says, "Return home and tell how much God has done for you." God has done great things in our lives for the purpose of spreading the gospel and sharing our testimonies.
God has not told us to be silent, but to open our mouths. One of the greatest ways we can be most effective is tell everyone we can what he has done in our lives. "Go ye into the world..." is right here in our very own communities. We just have to step outside our doors to meet our neighbor in need next door. Share with the person in line at the grocery store, share with the soccer mom that stands next to you, and share with a friend over coffee.
Share with anyone who will listen. But do go tell!
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
A True Prophet
Based on Luke 7:36-50
A man thought he knew her well, in fact he was bold enough to even speak up. As he opened up his mouth to expose her, he really exposed his heart of judgement. He was so busy looking at the depth of her sin, that he wasn't able to see his own. In his blindness, he wasn't able to see the depth of her love.
Jesus, the true prophet, looked at the heart. After all that is what he really cared about. Yes he knew her, knew her sin, yet he chose to focus more on her heart. He could tell from her present action that she was one who was humbly willing to pour out her offering of gratitude as she received forgiveness. As she exchanged her sins for forgiveness at the feet of Jesus, the fragrance rose and the knowledge of her sin vanished.
The Pharisee didn't get it. Even though it was happening right before his very eyes, he couldn't see it. He thought he could see, but he was blind. The plank of judgement kept him from seeing the way a true prophet does. Jesus gave him a question to ponder and when he answered it, he finally judged right.
The plank of judgement will keep you from being a true prophet. Judgement will always cause you to look at things through the natural eye. It will cause you to keep record of wrong.
A true prophet has insight into the heart because it sees through the eyes of the Father. It sees through eyes that look beyond the flesh, beyond the sin. It looks into the motive of the heart.
I heard a lyric from a song, it said, "if I could see through Jesus eyes for ten minutes, what would I see?" Why not close your eyes for ten minutes and ask God to reveal to you what he sees. With his eye sight, we will certainly see things differently!
A man thought he knew her well, in fact he was bold enough to even speak up. As he opened up his mouth to expose her, he really exposed his heart of judgement. He was so busy looking at the depth of her sin, that he wasn't able to see his own. In his blindness, he wasn't able to see the depth of her love.
Jesus, the true prophet, looked at the heart. After all that is what he really cared about. Yes he knew her, knew her sin, yet he chose to focus more on her heart. He could tell from her present action that she was one who was humbly willing to pour out her offering of gratitude as she received forgiveness. As she exchanged her sins for forgiveness at the feet of Jesus, the fragrance rose and the knowledge of her sin vanished.
The Pharisee didn't get it. Even though it was happening right before his very eyes, he couldn't see it. He thought he could see, but he was blind. The plank of judgement kept him from seeing the way a true prophet does. Jesus gave him a question to ponder and when he answered it, he finally judged right.
The plank of judgement will keep you from being a true prophet. Judgement will always cause you to look at things through the natural eye. It will cause you to keep record of wrong.
A true prophet has insight into the heart because it sees through the eyes of the Father. It sees through eyes that look beyond the flesh, beyond the sin. It looks into the motive of the heart.
I heard a lyric from a song, it said, "if I could see through Jesus eyes for ten minutes, what would I see?" Why not close your eyes for ten minutes and ask God to reveal to you what he sees. With his eye sight, we will certainly see things differently!
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
The Measure You Use
A great and very convicting time was had as I read God's word this morning. God disciplines and challenges us because he loves us so much. Learning and applying God's word is a step by step process, and is often a conviction by conviction process!
Luke 6:36-38 says, "Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."
There is a lot of scripture to learn to apply to our lives here. Each statement comes with a need to sacrifice of our flesh.
I believe God wants to convey to us His heart as these scriptures are supported by two bookends - loving your enemies, and removing a plank. Learning to love our enemies as well as removing planks are spoken to us on a very personal level. God is not so much as trying to teach the person NEXT to you through these powerful passages, as he is trying to teach YOU!
As we break down these scriptures, we have concrete steps that we need to take. These steps may take a life time to take as with each one, challenges will be faced and our willingness to sacrifice and obey will be revealed.
The steps are pretty simple - take one at a time. Be merciful. Do not judge. Do not condemn. Forgive. Give.
Removing planks can be very humbling. Trying to remove sawdust from someone else before it is time for you to can be ever so hurtful. Loving your enemies is one of our greatest tests. Without application, hypocrisy is revealed and our true love for God is not evident.
Put into practice the golden rule found in verse 31, "Do to others as you would have them do to you."
Luke 6:36-38 says, "Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."
There is a lot of scripture to learn to apply to our lives here. Each statement comes with a need to sacrifice of our flesh.
I believe God wants to convey to us His heart as these scriptures are supported by two bookends - loving your enemies, and removing a plank. Learning to love our enemies as well as removing planks are spoken to us on a very personal level. God is not so much as trying to teach the person NEXT to you through these powerful passages, as he is trying to teach YOU!
As we break down these scriptures, we have concrete steps that we need to take. These steps may take a life time to take as with each one, challenges will be faced and our willingness to sacrifice and obey will be revealed.
The steps are pretty simple - take one at a time. Be merciful. Do not judge. Do not condemn. Forgive. Give.
Removing planks can be very humbling. Trying to remove sawdust from someone else before it is time for you to can be ever so hurtful. Loving your enemies is one of our greatest tests. Without application, hypocrisy is revealed and our true love for God is not evident.
Put into practice the golden rule found in verse 31, "Do to others as you would have them do to you."
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Being An Example
Yesterday, a sister in the Lord (a real jewel!) sent me someones blog site to visit. How delightful it was. How encouraging it was. How heartfelt and humble it was.
I cannot begin to imagine the emotional pain that this woman of God is experiencing on a daily and even on a moment to moment basis. Yet she chooses to put her hope in God and to keep standing on the Rock.
Her faith leaped off the page as she humbly shared a glimpse of her present sufferings with her readers. The peace that God has given her was even causing my spirit to be settled.
The thought I pondered greatly on was found at the bottom of the page...not in her profound writings. It was actually a number - the number of people who have visited her blog site.
1 Timothy 4:12 tells us to "set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity."
This is what a woman of God is to do. No matter where your walk with God leads you, you are to walk it in such a way as to be an example to other believers.
I don't think it ever entered this woman's thoughts that she would ever be walking this particular road. Being used by God in this way was not her choice. But her willingness to remain walking with God is being used by God in a powerful way to bring encouragement to other believers. The truth is, she is probably being used greater now than she ever has been before.
Be ever so thankful for the woman that walks before you and the example that she is to your life. Be ever so thankful for the woman that chooses the narrow road of excellence. Be ever so thankful for the woman who humbly pours out her life experiences and hardships as she continues to praise her glorious Lord and Savior.
Take time to thank the woman in your life that is setting an example for you to follow!
I cannot begin to imagine the emotional pain that this woman of God is experiencing on a daily and even on a moment to moment basis. Yet she chooses to put her hope in God and to keep standing on the Rock.
Her faith leaped off the page as she humbly shared a glimpse of her present sufferings with her readers. The peace that God has given her was even causing my spirit to be settled.
The thought I pondered greatly on was found at the bottom of the page...not in her profound writings. It was actually a number - the number of people who have visited her blog site.
1 Timothy 4:12 tells us to "set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity."
This is what a woman of God is to do. No matter where your walk with God leads you, you are to walk it in such a way as to be an example to other believers.
I don't think it ever entered this woman's thoughts that she would ever be walking this particular road. Being used by God in this way was not her choice. But her willingness to remain walking with God is being used by God in a powerful way to bring encouragement to other believers. The truth is, she is probably being used greater now than she ever has been before.
Be ever so thankful for the woman that walks before you and the example that she is to your life. Be ever so thankful for the woman that chooses the narrow road of excellence. Be ever so thankful for the woman who humbly pours out her life experiences and hardships as she continues to praise her glorious Lord and Savior.
Take time to thank the woman in your life that is setting an example for you to follow!
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Singing In The Shadows
Something about singing always repositions my thoughts and attitudes toward God. I can't recall a time in the last 15 years, that God hasn't put a song into my spirit that has helped me to get through a difficult time. With each trial, he gives me something to sing about.
God's word is the very foundation of the songs my mouth sings as they overflow from the heart within. When my heart breaks before God, a song flows. When I am filled with fear, a song flows. When the enemy presses in a song flows. When all is well with my soul, a song flows.
Each trial draws me deeper into the shadow of the Most High. It has been there in the shadows that I have learned to sing and to cling. He has become my hiding place, my place of refuge from the storms. It is in His presence that I am consumed with rest.
Psalm 63:7-8 says, "Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings. My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me."
In the shadow of His wings, is the place we can rest. It is the place we can sing because of knowing his great protection. It is a place of incredible comfort.
In the shadow of His wings, is the place where we become disciplined to cling to God. Each trial thrusts us into this place and causes us to cling with even greater strength. With each trial, God proves his faithfulness to us as he reveals that he is our help.
Keep singing, and keep clinging, for he alone is your help and he will uphold you.
God's word is the very foundation of the songs my mouth sings as they overflow from the heart within. When my heart breaks before God, a song flows. When I am filled with fear, a song flows. When the enemy presses in a song flows. When all is well with my soul, a song flows.
Each trial draws me deeper into the shadow of the Most High. It has been there in the shadows that I have learned to sing and to cling. He has become my hiding place, my place of refuge from the storms. It is in His presence that I am consumed with rest.
Psalm 63:7-8 says, "Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings. My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me."
In the shadow of His wings, is the place we can rest. It is the place we can sing because of knowing his great protection. It is a place of incredible comfort.
In the shadow of His wings, is the place where we become disciplined to cling to God. Each trial thrusts us into this place and causes us to cling with even greater strength. With each trial, God proves his faithfulness to us as he reveals that he is our help.
Keep singing, and keep clinging, for he alone is your help and he will uphold you.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Always Blessed
Ps 128:1-2
"Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in his ways. You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours."
The fear of the Lord and choosing to walk in his ways brings blessings into our lives. If we sow respect and obedience to God, we will reap blessings.
Sounds easy doesn't it? It actually can be very difficult as numerous circumstances can come to us on a daily basis that may cause us to make a choice to fear God, to choose God.
From how we speak to our husbands, to how we discipline our children, to how we respond to anger, to how we speak of others. Does our responses and our speech reflect a fear of the Lord? Do our choices reflect a choice to walk in obedience to his ways?
Walking in His ways proves our determination to walk in obedience. Obedience reveals our love, for if we love God, we will obey his commands.
I want to be a "real deal" Christian. When others see me, I want them to see that I am a woman who fears the Lord and walks in his ways.
I want God to see that I am a "real deal" Christian. I know that the proof of him seeing it, is that I will eat the fruit of my labor and that blessings and prosperity are mine.
I want to be always blessed. I choose God.
"Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in his ways. You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours."
The fear of the Lord and choosing to walk in his ways brings blessings into our lives. If we sow respect and obedience to God, we will reap blessings.
Sounds easy doesn't it? It actually can be very difficult as numerous circumstances can come to us on a daily basis that may cause us to make a choice to fear God, to choose God.
From how we speak to our husbands, to how we discipline our children, to how we respond to anger, to how we speak of others. Does our responses and our speech reflect a fear of the Lord? Do our choices reflect a choice to walk in obedience to his ways?
Walking in His ways proves our determination to walk in obedience. Obedience reveals our love, for if we love God, we will obey his commands.
I want to be a "real deal" Christian. When others see me, I want them to see that I am a woman who fears the Lord and walks in his ways.
I want God to see that I am a "real deal" Christian. I know that the proof of him seeing it, is that I will eat the fruit of my labor and that blessings and prosperity are mine.
I want to be always blessed. I choose God.
Friday, September 12, 2008
It's A Choice
Praising God is always a choice. Whether on a mountain, in a valley, a desert, or a wilderness place, it is what needs to be flowing from our lips.
There are many benefits to praising God with every step we take. Praising God keeps our thoughts and focus on him. It keeps our attitudes filled with thanksgiving. As our hearts overflow with praise, songs of deliverance then flow too. Praise is what causes us to continue dancing through the most difficult circumstances.
Is 61:3 speaks about putting on "a garment of praise for the spirit of despair". When you begin to praise Jesus, darkness has no choice but to flee. Praise brings you into the presence of God, and in the presence of God, no demon can stand! God inhabits our praises, it is where he is, and where he longs to be.
Set backs are nothing for God - nothing! God is in control! Nothing is impossible for God - no nothing! Praise springs forth because we trust God at his word and because we walk (and speak) by faith and not by sight. We choose to praise God before we even see his hand at work - we praise because we know his hand will work.
This is the day the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it! I choose to praise!
There are many benefits to praising God with every step we take. Praising God keeps our thoughts and focus on him. It keeps our attitudes filled with thanksgiving. As our hearts overflow with praise, songs of deliverance then flow too. Praise is what causes us to continue dancing through the most difficult circumstances.
Is 61:3 speaks about putting on "a garment of praise for the spirit of despair". When you begin to praise Jesus, darkness has no choice but to flee. Praise brings you into the presence of God, and in the presence of God, no demon can stand! God inhabits our praises, it is where he is, and where he longs to be.
Set backs are nothing for God - nothing! God is in control! Nothing is impossible for God - no nothing! Praise springs forth because we trust God at his word and because we walk (and speak) by faith and not by sight. We choose to praise God before we even see his hand at work - we praise because we know his hand will work.
This is the day the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it! I choose to praise!
Thursday, September 11, 2008
All My Fountains
This morning as I was spending time in the word, a loved piece of scripture from a time gone by was once again revisited. Sometimes scriptures remind us of a time when...they speak remembrance , they speak needed encouragement.
Psalm 87:7 says, "As they make music they will sing, 'All my fountains are in you.'"
All my fountains are in you. Have you ever pondered what that means? Another translation says "the source of my life". All we are flows from God.
When I think of a fountain, I think about how there is a source that feeds it and there is a pressure that builds up inside that forces it to overflow. When it overflows it has a spray that when the wind blows it carries that spray to surrounding areas.
That is how God is in us. He is the very source that runs into our lives. The very essence of His presence and passion builds up within us till we get to the point that we can no longer contain it, and then it overflows and is released to those around us.
Everything we have need of is found in Him. He is the ultimate source of completion. He is the very well spring we have desire of.
May everything He is build up in our inmost beings and then may His greatness be released to all those around us!
Psalm 87:7 says, "As they make music they will sing, 'All my fountains are in you.'"
All my fountains are in you. Have you ever pondered what that means? Another translation says "the source of my life". All we are flows from God.
When I think of a fountain, I think about how there is a source that feeds it and there is a pressure that builds up inside that forces it to overflow. When it overflows it has a spray that when the wind blows it carries that spray to surrounding areas.
That is how God is in us. He is the very source that runs into our lives. The very essence of His presence and passion builds up within us till we get to the point that we can no longer contain it, and then it overflows and is released to those around us.
Everything we have need of is found in Him. He is the ultimate source of completion. He is the very well spring we have desire of.
May everything He is build up in our inmost beings and then may His greatness be released to all those around us!
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Speak to Your Soul
One of my very favorite psalms portrays a picture of one who walks with the Lord. It is a picture of a life dedicated to the Lord as they walk through some of the toughest trials in life.
Psalm 84:5-7 says, "Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage. As they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools. They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion."
Walking through times of distress and spiritual dryness are never easy, that's why it reflects the Valley of Baca (Baca represents death). We see here, the psalmist chooses to make it a place of springs, a place that gives life. Eventually, going from strength to strength, step by step, they reach their final destination...the presence of God. Isn't that the place we long to be?
Our spiritual strength comes from God's word. It is the resource that gives us the fuel to keep taking another step. Without it, we will grow faint and weary. Without it, we will die spiritually.
Psalm 43:3-4 reveals this truth saying, "Send forth your light and your truth, let them guide me; let them bring me to your holy mountain, to the place where you dwell. Then will I go to the altar of God, to God, my joy and my delight. I will praise you with the harp, O God, my God."
God's truth is what is to guide our steps. God's truth leads us up the mountain to the place where he dwells.
Walking can be very tiring, especially when we get thirsty, when the well is dry. But that is the very time we need to sing to the well and speak to our soul. We have to command our spirit to line up with God's truth. It is not easy - our very spiritual life depends on it.
Psalm 43:5 teaches us how to speak to our spirit during these seemingly bleak times. "Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God."
We have to choose to put our hope in God. We have to choose to praise him. A determination for survival has to set in. A determination for God's presence needs to be the vision ever set before us. In order to reach our destination, we have got to become disciplined to cast down our flesh and speak God's truth into our spirits. Our spirits have to rise over our emotions! We are to walk by the spirit and not by the flesh!
Go ahead, speak to your soul. Take your next step toward the holy mountain, for you long to reach His glorious presence.
Psalm 84:5-7 says, "Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage. As they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools. They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion."
Walking through times of distress and spiritual dryness are never easy, that's why it reflects the Valley of Baca (Baca represents death). We see here, the psalmist chooses to make it a place of springs, a place that gives life. Eventually, going from strength to strength, step by step, they reach their final destination...the presence of God. Isn't that the place we long to be?
Our spiritual strength comes from God's word. It is the resource that gives us the fuel to keep taking another step. Without it, we will grow faint and weary. Without it, we will die spiritually.
Psalm 43:3-4 reveals this truth saying, "Send forth your light and your truth, let them guide me; let them bring me to your holy mountain, to the place where you dwell. Then will I go to the altar of God, to God, my joy and my delight. I will praise you with the harp, O God, my God."
God's truth is what is to guide our steps. God's truth leads us up the mountain to the place where he dwells.
Walking can be very tiring, especially when we get thirsty, when the well is dry. But that is the very time we need to sing to the well and speak to our soul. We have to command our spirit to line up with God's truth. It is not easy - our very spiritual life depends on it.
Psalm 43:5 teaches us how to speak to our spirit during these seemingly bleak times. "Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God."
We have to choose to put our hope in God. We have to choose to praise him. A determination for survival has to set in. A determination for God's presence needs to be the vision ever set before us. In order to reach our destination, we have got to become disciplined to cast down our flesh and speak God's truth into our spirits. Our spirits have to rise over our emotions! We are to walk by the spirit and not by the flesh!
Go ahead, speak to your soul. Take your next step toward the holy mountain, for you long to reach His glorious presence.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Words That Paint a Picture
I was reading in the book of Revelation this morning and a few key words started to brush strokes on the canvas of my imagination. What a beautiful picture began to unfold.
Excerpts taken from Rev 14:1-3
Then I looked, and there before me was the Lamb, standing on Mount Zion...
And I heard a sound from heaven like the roar of rushing waters...
The sound I heard was like that of harpists playing their harps.
And they sang a new song before the throne...
Close your eyes. Can you see it? Can you hear it?
Worship the Lord in the splendor of His majesty.
Excerpts taken from Rev 14:1-3
Then I looked, and there before me was the Lamb, standing on Mount Zion...
And I heard a sound from heaven like the roar of rushing waters...
The sound I heard was like that of harpists playing their harps.
And they sang a new song before the throne...
Close your eyes. Can you see it? Can you hear it?
Worship the Lord in the splendor of His majesty.
Monday, September 8, 2008
The Cold Seat
OK. Two things those in the "cold seat" have going for them is this, one, they know exactly what seat they are sitting in, and two, it is better to sit in the cold seat than the seat of "compromise (lukewarm)".
Rev. 3:15-16 says, "I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm - neither hot nor cold - I am about to spit you out of my mouth."
The person who sits in the cold seat, operates fully in the ways of the world. Why are they in the cold seat? Because they are far away from God.
The person who sits in the cold seat has character traits that reflects their chair. Often they are cold and abrasive in their personality, they can be harsh and cutting. Their lives are often all about themselves and they will stop at nothing in order to climb the ladder of success.
The person who sits in the cold seat may take on another appearance altogether. They can be dedicated workers, givers to many causes, humanitarians. They can be counselors, teachers, doctors...good people. Yet even though they do great works and have great hearts, they are far from the heart of God.
People who chose to sit in the cold seat are not necessarily bad people, they are people who just do not know God, his truth or his love. Sometimes they are not even sitting their by choice. They are sitting their because they do not know that any other seat exists. They are unaware of the hot seat.
These are the people we need to reach. These are the people who we need to intercede for. These are the people we need to show the love of Christ to so that they will know and receive the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. These are the people who God has a hot seat ready and waiting for!
Rev. 3:15-16 says, "I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm - neither hot nor cold - I am about to spit you out of my mouth."
The person who sits in the cold seat, operates fully in the ways of the world. Why are they in the cold seat? Because they are far away from God.
The person who sits in the cold seat has character traits that reflects their chair. Often they are cold and abrasive in their personality, they can be harsh and cutting. Their lives are often all about themselves and they will stop at nothing in order to climb the ladder of success.
The person who sits in the cold seat may take on another appearance altogether. They can be dedicated workers, givers to many causes, humanitarians. They can be counselors, teachers, doctors...good people. Yet even though they do great works and have great hearts, they are far from the heart of God.
People who chose to sit in the cold seat are not necessarily bad people, they are people who just do not know God, his truth or his love. Sometimes they are not even sitting their by choice. They are sitting their because they do not know that any other seat exists. They are unaware of the hot seat.
These are the people we need to reach. These are the people who we need to intercede for. These are the people we need to show the love of Christ to so that they will know and receive the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. These are the people who God has a hot seat ready and waiting for!
Saturday, September 6, 2008
The Seat of Compromise
Oh, the choices we make! They really do reveal our heart. They reveal it to God as well as to everyone around us. Have you ever had this thought - "Someone is always watching you"? Don't get paranoid, but it is true.
Every step you take and every decision you make has the ability to make an impact. It's not just in our speech, but in the way we hold ourselves and in the way we act. Sometimes we think it's the loudest person that makes the greatest impact, but sometimes it is the silence that screams out with greater influence.
Saying nothing at all is often the voice of compromise. It doesn't want to "rock the boat", it doesn't want to sound "politically incorrect", and it doesn't want to convey an unpopular opinion. It often hides behind the fear of man. Silence is an enemy to the kingdom of God, for it is when God spoke that things came into existence. If we remain silent, how will others ever know the truth of God? If we remain silent, how will God ever be able to use us as his mouth piece?
We are to be examples of Christ everywhere we go, to both believers as well as non-believers. Again, how we speak, act and dress tells a lot about who we are and who we belong to. With so many choices to make on a daily basis, we need to use wisdom in what decisions are made.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and to fear the Lord is to hate what is evil. The seat of compromise doesn't always reflect the fear of the Lord, nor does it always reflect the sin of the world. The seat of compromise can be oh so subtle.
It's evidence shows up in areas that we may not even be aware of, or are willing to see. Like what movies and TV shows we watch to how we dress. I heard this phrase at a conference I attended a couple of years ago (and it is a keeper!), "your skirts should not be saying 'high and mighty' and your shirts should not be screaming 'low and behold'". How we dress makes a statement that reflects our purity and our integrity. Purity and integrity are important to God, not to the world.
Those in the seat of compromise need to make up their minds. Luke warm is not good. People around us need to know where we stand and whose side we are on. Speak up and let your voice be heard! Don't be found sitting in the seat of compromise...move over to the hot seat!
Every step you take and every decision you make has the ability to make an impact. It's not just in our speech, but in the way we hold ourselves and in the way we act. Sometimes we think it's the loudest person that makes the greatest impact, but sometimes it is the silence that screams out with greater influence.
Saying nothing at all is often the voice of compromise. It doesn't want to "rock the boat", it doesn't want to sound "politically incorrect", and it doesn't want to convey an unpopular opinion. It often hides behind the fear of man. Silence is an enemy to the kingdom of God, for it is when God spoke that things came into existence. If we remain silent, how will others ever know the truth of God? If we remain silent, how will God ever be able to use us as his mouth piece?
We are to be examples of Christ everywhere we go, to both believers as well as non-believers. Again, how we speak, act and dress tells a lot about who we are and who we belong to. With so many choices to make on a daily basis, we need to use wisdom in what decisions are made.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and to fear the Lord is to hate what is evil. The seat of compromise doesn't always reflect the fear of the Lord, nor does it always reflect the sin of the world. The seat of compromise can be oh so subtle.
It's evidence shows up in areas that we may not even be aware of, or are willing to see. Like what movies and TV shows we watch to how we dress. I heard this phrase at a conference I attended a couple of years ago (and it is a keeper!), "your skirts should not be saying 'high and mighty' and your shirts should not be screaming 'low and behold'". How we dress makes a statement that reflects our purity and our integrity. Purity and integrity are important to God, not to the world.
Those in the seat of compromise need to make up their minds. Luke warm is not good. People around us need to know where we stand and whose side we are on. Speak up and let your voice be heard! Don't be found sitting in the seat of compromise...move over to the hot seat!
Friday, September 5, 2008
The Hot Seat
The hot seat reflects the chosen life of service and commitment to God. The one who truly has laid down their life for Christ sees no other option than to sit in the hot seat. There is no other place that they would rather be, no matter the circumstances. They are not afraid of suffering or ridicule. They are not afraid to walk the road less traveled.
Choosing to sit in the hot seat takes commitment. It takes obedience and self control. The hot seat demands that you be crucified with Christ. It demands that every shred of flesh be burned away till all that is left reflects the character and nature of God.
Commitment and devotion is what causes us to even choose that seat. It began when we chose Christ. A steadfast spirit finds His "staying power". We need to be determined to stay committed to Christ - no matter what, no matter the cost.
Obedience to God's word disciplines us. Hiding His word in our hearts keeps us from sinning against Him. It keeps us from moving into the seat of compromise. Choosing to live and walk in ways that line up with God's word will yield blessings. Psalm 119:2 says, "Blessed are they who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart."
Self control chooses God's ways. Temptations will always arise so we must be disciplined to choose God's ways and his words at all times. There can be no deviations from the truth. A spirit of self control is seeded in decisions that are made before any temptation comes your way. The fruit of self control is revealed when you choose God and temptations are defeated.
Sitting in the hot seat is a choice that reflects your true devotion. Not only is it seen by God, but your witness and devotion will be seen by others as well.
Have you made up your mind to follow Jesus? Go ahead, sit in the hot seat!
Choosing to sit in the hot seat takes commitment. It takes obedience and self control. The hot seat demands that you be crucified with Christ. It demands that every shred of flesh be burned away till all that is left reflects the character and nature of God.
Commitment and devotion is what causes us to even choose that seat. It began when we chose Christ. A steadfast spirit finds His "staying power". We need to be determined to stay committed to Christ - no matter what, no matter the cost.
Obedience to God's word disciplines us. Hiding His word in our hearts keeps us from sinning against Him. It keeps us from moving into the seat of compromise. Choosing to live and walk in ways that line up with God's word will yield blessings. Psalm 119:2 says, "Blessed are they who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart."
Self control chooses God's ways. Temptations will always arise so we must be disciplined to choose God's ways and his words at all times. There can be no deviations from the truth. A spirit of self control is seeded in decisions that are made before any temptation comes your way. The fruit of self control is revealed when you choose God and temptations are defeated.
Sitting in the hot seat is a choice that reflects your true devotion. Not only is it seen by God, but your witness and devotion will be seen by others as well.
Have you made up your mind to follow Jesus? Go ahead, sit in the hot seat!
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Three Seats
It is never good to compromise what you believe in. As Christians, it is so important that we know what we stand on, what God's views are on different topics. When we know what God's views are and what His word says about different things, then we are to never deviate from those beliefs.
There are three seats, representing three choices, that we can choose to sit in on a daily basis. The first seat is "hot", the second seat is "compromise" and the third seat is called "cold".
The "hot" seat represents the Christian who no doubt is on fire for God. Everything they speak and stand for is founded on the Rock. Their character reveals the true nature and character of Christ.
The "cold" seat represents the world. It takes on the character of the world and the sinful views that abound with ungodliness.
The seat of "compromise" represents that of a lukewarm believer. This is a seat that looks a little like God and a little like the world. Someone who sits in this seat is not totally sold out to either God or to the world. They cannot be distinguished.
As Christians, God wants us to be distinguished. He wants us to be set apart. He wants us to take on His likeness. When we know what we believe is true and we boldly speak that forth, then those around us can easily distinguish what seat it is that we sit in.
Every area from politics, marriage, sexual immorality to even how we choose to dress needs to reflect that we are "hot" Christians. Know God's heart and his word, and do not turn your views from that no matter how pressured you are from society and those around you.
Sitting in the "hot" seat is not always easy and can even feel pretty lonely. Few choose it. The hot seat gets hotter and the narrow path becomes more narrow.
There are three seats, representing three choices, that we can choose to sit in on a daily basis. The first seat is "hot", the second seat is "compromise" and the third seat is called "cold".
The "hot" seat represents the Christian who no doubt is on fire for God. Everything they speak and stand for is founded on the Rock. Their character reveals the true nature and character of Christ.
The "cold" seat represents the world. It takes on the character of the world and the sinful views that abound with ungodliness.
The seat of "compromise" represents that of a lukewarm believer. This is a seat that looks a little like God and a little like the world. Someone who sits in this seat is not totally sold out to either God or to the world. They cannot be distinguished.
As Christians, God wants us to be distinguished. He wants us to be set apart. He wants us to take on His likeness. When we know what we believe is true and we boldly speak that forth, then those around us can easily distinguish what seat it is that we sit in.
Every area from politics, marriage, sexual immorality to even how we choose to dress needs to reflect that we are "hot" Christians. Know God's heart and his word, and do not turn your views from that no matter how pressured you are from society and those around you.
Sitting in the "hot" seat is not always easy and can even feel pretty lonely. Few choose it. The hot seat gets hotter and the narrow path becomes more narrow.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Forgiven
Last night we had such a wonderful time at our discipleship class on worship. Our lesson and discussion came from Luke 7:36-50, where Jesus was anointed by a sinful woman.
I got thinking about these wonderful scriptures. What revelation this woman had of the depth of her sin, where she came from, and who the redeemer of her life was. She poured out her best upon his feet, weeping gratitude with each and every drop of her fragrant offering.
It makes me think. Where would I be without Jesus? Do I understand the depth of his love, his forgiveness, his sacrifice?
It makes me search deep within. Do I offer all that I have to him? Do I give him my best? Do I withhold any part of my life as a sacrifice? Do I give what I have freely and with gratitude?
This woman knew the depth of sin she had been involved in. She recognized the condition of her garments. She had been forgiven much and her outpouring revealed her awareness as she poured out her love. She loved much for she knew she was forgiven much.
She gave out of the depth of her love, the very best that she had to offer.
We want our offerings to reveal the depth of our love. We need to have an incredible revelation as to the power of forgiveness. Why? Because when we understand the fullness of the forgiveness that has been extended to us, it will cause us to love much.
I got thinking about these wonderful scriptures. What revelation this woman had of the depth of her sin, where she came from, and who the redeemer of her life was. She poured out her best upon his feet, weeping gratitude with each and every drop of her fragrant offering.
It makes me think. Where would I be without Jesus? Do I understand the depth of his love, his forgiveness, his sacrifice?
It makes me search deep within. Do I offer all that I have to him? Do I give him my best? Do I withhold any part of my life as a sacrifice? Do I give what I have freely and with gratitude?
This woman knew the depth of sin she had been involved in. She recognized the condition of her garments. She had been forgiven much and her outpouring revealed her awareness as she poured out her love. She loved much for she knew she was forgiven much.
She gave out of the depth of her love, the very best that she had to offer.
We want our offerings to reveal the depth of our love. We need to have an incredible revelation as to the power of forgiveness. Why? Because when we understand the fullness of the forgiveness that has been extended to us, it will cause us to love much.
Friday, August 29, 2008
God Alone
Psalm 83:18
"Let them know that you, whose name is the Lord - that you alone are the Most High over all the earth."
This is the last verse of a prayerful song offered up by David. This is a man who recognized who the enemy was, how he was scheming and just how great his God was. He knew, and believed, that God alone was the Most High. That no enemy would be able to stand against him!
Many are the enemies that try to rise up against us. It's important that we know who our God really is. Not only knowing God's word, but intimately knowing who he is, gives us incredible protection. Believing and not doubting, but taking him at his word!
Knowing that he is our refuge, and our strong tower gives us a protection to run into when the enemy presses in. Knowing that he is our shelter from the storms brings much comfort when we are afraid. Knowing that we can hide beneath the shadow of his wings causes such a sense of safety and security.
Our God goes before us and fights for us. To the faithful, he shows himself faithful.
2 Samuel 22:31-33 says, "As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him. For who is God besides the Lord? And who is the Rock except our God? It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect."
No power can stand against God! God is for you. Who can stand against you? He is mighty to save you from your enemies. No power can stand against God! God alone is the Most High over all the earth!
"Let them know that you, whose name is the Lord - that you alone are the Most High over all the earth."
This is the last verse of a prayerful song offered up by David. This is a man who recognized who the enemy was, how he was scheming and just how great his God was. He knew, and believed, that God alone was the Most High. That no enemy would be able to stand against him!
Many are the enemies that try to rise up against us. It's important that we know who our God really is. Not only knowing God's word, but intimately knowing who he is, gives us incredible protection. Believing and not doubting, but taking him at his word!
Knowing that he is our refuge, and our strong tower gives us a protection to run into when the enemy presses in. Knowing that he is our shelter from the storms brings much comfort when we are afraid. Knowing that we can hide beneath the shadow of his wings causes such a sense of safety and security.
Our God goes before us and fights for us. To the faithful, he shows himself faithful.
2 Samuel 22:31-33 says, "As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him. For who is God besides the Lord? And who is the Rock except our God? It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect."
No power can stand against God! God is for you. Who can stand against you? He is mighty to save you from your enemies. No power can stand against God! God alone is the Most High over all the earth!
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Strength to the Weary
God's words are so precious. They are the divine antidote to what we are in need of; strengthening every area that is weak.
We have times when we feel really strong, yet with a blink of an eye weakness sets in. God is found to be true in times of weaknesses. It is often in those times of weakness that false strength is exposed. God allows us to have the opportunity to experience weakness so that his great and powerful strength may rest upon us. Is 40:29 says, "He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak."
Weakness is the place where we cry out to him for we can't do it on our own. It is what causes us to fall on our knees and cry out to God. It causes desperation - desperation for God. For it is God alone who can carry us.
We are not hidden from the Lord. He cares greatly for us and is concerned about every area of our lives. He does not grow tired or weary, and his ways we cannot understand. But we can choose to trust.
Is 40:31...but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Keep putting your hope in the Lord!
We have times when we feel really strong, yet with a blink of an eye weakness sets in. God is found to be true in times of weaknesses. It is often in those times of weakness that false strength is exposed. God allows us to have the opportunity to experience weakness so that his great and powerful strength may rest upon us. Is 40:29 says, "He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak."
Weakness is the place where we cry out to him for we can't do it on our own. It is what causes us to fall on our knees and cry out to God. It causes desperation - desperation for God. For it is God alone who can carry us.
We are not hidden from the Lord. He cares greatly for us and is concerned about every area of our lives. He does not grow tired or weary, and his ways we cannot understand. But we can choose to trust.
Is 40:31...but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Keep putting your hope in the Lord!
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Still Waiting
Ok. I want answers.
I want them now.
I don't like to wait.
It shakes my faith.
How many times have I had these thoughts? Oh, Lord, have you heard my cry?
The enemy pursuers and tries to crush. Darkness swirls around and tries to cause my spirit to grow faint. My heart is troubled.
David too experienced what so many of us do. Times we feel left alone, wondering where God is in our midst and where he is working on our behalf. Calling to God for help and waiting for his mighty arm to come to our rescue causes us to become parched. These are the times God uses our very weaknesses to build greater strength into our spirits. These times never feel good, but they are vital for our growth and dependancy in him.
David's life reveals an antidote for us. In Psalm 143:1, David says, "I remember the days of long ago; I meditate on all your works and consider what your hands have done."
There it is. Remember the days of long ago. Think about all the things God has ever done for you and on your behalf. Make a list. Keep them ever before you. Don't loose sight of how God has been faithful and how he has been true to his word.
When we choose to focus on ALL the things God has done for us, it makes the very things we are still waiting for seem so very small.
Yes, God hears us. Yes, God will be faithful - He always has been in the past. Just wait and see how he will works things out this time.
He works all things together for good!
I want them now.
I don't like to wait.
It shakes my faith.
How many times have I had these thoughts? Oh, Lord, have you heard my cry?
The enemy pursuers and tries to crush. Darkness swirls around and tries to cause my spirit to grow faint. My heart is troubled.
David too experienced what so many of us do. Times we feel left alone, wondering where God is in our midst and where he is working on our behalf. Calling to God for help and waiting for his mighty arm to come to our rescue causes us to become parched. These are the times God uses our very weaknesses to build greater strength into our spirits. These times never feel good, but they are vital for our growth and dependancy in him.
David's life reveals an antidote for us. In Psalm 143:1, David says, "I remember the days of long ago; I meditate on all your works and consider what your hands have done."
There it is. Remember the days of long ago. Think about all the things God has ever done for you and on your behalf. Make a list. Keep them ever before you. Don't loose sight of how God has been faithful and how he has been true to his word.
When we choose to focus on ALL the things God has done for us, it makes the very things we are still waiting for seem so very small.
Yes, God hears us. Yes, God will be faithful - He always has been in the past. Just wait and see how he will works things out this time.
He works all things together for good!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Walking In The Truth
In his third book, John shares in verses 3 and 4, "It gave me great joy to have some brothers come and tell about your faithfulness to the truth and how you continue to walk in the truth. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth."
As spiritual parents, it gives Pastor Jim and I great joy when we hear reports of those in our care staying faithful and walking in the truth. Testimonies are so important. Not only are you blessed by what God has done in your life, but we too are blessed as we watch and hear of your growth!
When someone shares how they have overcome fear and have boldly shared their faith in the work place, parental pride just wells up within us.
When the flood waters are trying to overtake you and yet you choose to stand on God's word, what joy floods our spirits.
When persecution comes your way, and praise is heard flowing from your lips, thanksgiving rises from ours.
When you're hurting and the tears are flowing, and your hope in God's word does not cease, we too fall on our faces in gratutude for God's strength and for your growth.
When the sand is visibly sinking all around you and you are seen standing proudly upon the Rock, unshaken, and stable, we rejoice in your victory as it is then that your light is so brightly shining for all to see.
We know what joy fills our hearts as we see and hear how you walk in truth, and we can only imagine what joy fills the heart of Father God. A parent has no greater joy, than to hear that their children are walking in the truth!
As spiritual parents, it gives Pastor Jim and I great joy when we hear reports of those in our care staying faithful and walking in the truth. Testimonies are so important. Not only are you blessed by what God has done in your life, but we too are blessed as we watch and hear of your growth!
When someone shares how they have overcome fear and have boldly shared their faith in the work place, parental pride just wells up within us.
When the flood waters are trying to overtake you and yet you choose to stand on God's word, what joy floods our spirits.
When persecution comes your way, and praise is heard flowing from your lips, thanksgiving rises from ours.
When you're hurting and the tears are flowing, and your hope in God's word does not cease, we too fall on our faces in gratutude for God's strength and for your growth.
When the sand is visibly sinking all around you and you are seen standing proudly upon the Rock, unshaken, and stable, we rejoice in your victory as it is then that your light is so brightly shining for all to see.
We know what joy fills our hearts as we see and hear how you walk in truth, and we can only imagine what joy fills the heart of Father God. A parent has no greater joy, than to hear that their children are walking in the truth!
Monday, August 25, 2008
An Honest Look
As I was concluding my daily reading of scripture, it finally jumped out at me. You know, the words that boldly leap from the page screaming for attention!
I recognize the importance of sceaming words. They make you stop. They make you take notice. They make you respond.
After reading much careful instruction in the book of 1 John, the very last verse says this: "Dear children, keep yourselves from idols."
Yes, he is speaking this to believers. To those who already confess Christ as their Lord.
Idols. Things that take on the image of God. Things that we may worship and may adore. They sneak in everywhere and take on many different forms. Idols take time to carve. It's not like one day they just appear.
It's time we take a closer look at our lives. God is a jealous God. Are there things that are trying to sneak into our lives that we find give us a false sense of comfort (like food, money etc.)? Are there things that have come in that keep us out of church and fellowship ( like sports, parties etc.)? Has you favorite TV show captured your committment more so than your prayer closet? Do you perfer sleep over attending church?
Taking an honest look at our lives is not always easy. Learning to recognize where idols are being built as well as hidden is imparitive for staying committed to Christ. Idols draw us away, not closer. Being drawn away is one of the greatest symptoms that reveals an idol at work in our lives.
Idols come in many forms. Food, friends, spouses, TV, laziness, sleepiness, money, shopping, jewelry, shoes etc. Idols steal our affections. Idols reveal who we truely worship.
Idols should never be laid down. They are to be smashed. Destroyed.
Are there any idols in your life. Take an honest look. God is a jealous God.
I recognize the importance of sceaming words. They make you stop. They make you take notice. They make you respond.
After reading much careful instruction in the book of 1 John, the very last verse says this: "Dear children, keep yourselves from idols."
Yes, he is speaking this to believers. To those who already confess Christ as their Lord.
Idols. Things that take on the image of God. Things that we may worship and may adore. They sneak in everywhere and take on many different forms. Idols take time to carve. It's not like one day they just appear.
It's time we take a closer look at our lives. God is a jealous God. Are there things that are trying to sneak into our lives that we find give us a false sense of comfort (like food, money etc.)? Are there things that have come in that keep us out of church and fellowship ( like sports, parties etc.)? Has you favorite TV show captured your committment more so than your prayer closet? Do you perfer sleep over attending church?
Taking an honest look at our lives is not always easy. Learning to recognize where idols are being built as well as hidden is imparitive for staying committed to Christ. Idols draw us away, not closer. Being drawn away is one of the greatest symptoms that reveals an idol at work in our lives.
Idols come in many forms. Food, friends, spouses, TV, laziness, sleepiness, money, shopping, jewelry, shoes etc. Idols steal our affections. Idols reveal who we truely worship.
Idols should never be laid down. They are to be smashed. Destroyed.
Are there any idols in your life. Take an honest look. God is a jealous God.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Making An Impact
A couple of months ago I had to come to terms with something. I have a friend that I had been witnessing to and I believed I was making an impact on her life. There were times that she was very open to listening to what God's truth was. Seeing this made me look so forward to spending more time with her. Little by little though as we got comfortable with each other, conversations we were having with others weren't as godly as I would have hoped for them to be. As much as I tried to stay out of them, there would be times I would find myself laughing along with them and even times that gossip would flow from my lips. The conviction was so great! God opened my eyes to see that they actually were having a greater impact on me than I was having on them. One on one time with this friend was productive, but when we got around others it became destructive...to me.
Trying to make an impact on wordly people can be very difficult. 1 John 4:1 ecourages us to "test the spirits" to see whether they are from God. We have to keep in mind at all times, that WE are to be making an impact on others. Our witness should be in deeds, truth and love. The truth is that the enemy sends others to try to cause us to stumble and fall. Therefore, we must be ever discerning.
One thing God opened my eyes to was the truth that when I was around this friend and a few others that I was being drawn away from walking in godly character. Out of no where I was thinking of using unclean speech. I wondered, "where in the world are these thoughts coming from"? Quickly I was reminded of the language being used by others around me. I was deceived thinking that I was making an impact when the enemy was really at work trying to lead me into sin. If our friendships are causing us to be drawn away from God, His truth, or His character, then we need to seriously reconsider them.
So I have taken action!!! Yes, I still love my friend. Yes, I still share God with my friend - one on one. Yes, I am making an impact. But when others join us, I dismiss myself and go and try to make an impact elsewhere for there are so many to reach. I want God to rub off of me onto others, I don't want others to rub off on to me and defile my witness. I want my light to shine, therefore I must do everything I can to remain clean and bright!
If you have a Message Bible (or any other version will do), I would encourage you to read 1 John 4:1-6. Ask God to show you truths about the relationships you are in, where you are making an impact and even perhaps where and how others may be making an impact on your life.
Trying to make an impact on wordly people can be very difficult. 1 John 4:1 ecourages us to "test the spirits" to see whether they are from God. We have to keep in mind at all times, that WE are to be making an impact on others. Our witness should be in deeds, truth and love. The truth is that the enemy sends others to try to cause us to stumble and fall. Therefore, we must be ever discerning.
One thing God opened my eyes to was the truth that when I was around this friend and a few others that I was being drawn away from walking in godly character. Out of no where I was thinking of using unclean speech. I wondered, "where in the world are these thoughts coming from"? Quickly I was reminded of the language being used by others around me. I was deceived thinking that I was making an impact when the enemy was really at work trying to lead me into sin. If our friendships are causing us to be drawn away from God, His truth, or His character, then we need to seriously reconsider them.
So I have taken action!!! Yes, I still love my friend. Yes, I still share God with my friend - one on one. Yes, I am making an impact. But when others join us, I dismiss myself and go and try to make an impact elsewhere for there are so many to reach. I want God to rub off of me onto others, I don't want others to rub off on to me and defile my witness. I want my light to shine, therefore I must do everything I can to remain clean and bright!
If you have a Message Bible (or any other version will do), I would encourage you to read 1 John 4:1-6. Ask God to show you truths about the relationships you are in, where you are making an impact and even perhaps where and how others may be making an impact on your life.
Friday, August 22, 2008
What Is Love?
1 John 3:16 This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. 1 John 3:18 Dear children, let us not love with words of tongue but with actions and in truth.
Love can always be equated with sacrifice. Love cannot be truely evident without sacrifice. Where there is no sacrifice, there is no love.
Jesus is such an example of flesh being crucified. We see in the garden where he wrestled his flesh as he agonized over drinking from the cup. Can you imagine what it sounded like as he cried out to his father to let this cup pass from him? The decision he made in the garden determined his steps toward the cross - the ultimate sacrifice. It was at the cross where his true love for us was revealed in its greatest capacity.
As humans we struggle with our flesh when someone asks us to give them a ride to an appointment. We struggle with our willingness to make someone a meal when they are sick. We struggle to feed the poor when we see them using cell phones. We struggle turning off the TV in order to spend time in prayer and in the word. We struggle doing anything when we don't get paid for it. Where selfishness abides, love cannot.
Choosing to wrestle our flesh away and sacrifice for others is the only way we will ever be able to show those around us what true love is. Our willingness to wrestle our flesh away is our act of love toward God by being obedient to God and his word. Our willingness to sacrifice of ourselves is our means to touch others with the love of God.
Saying we love is not enough. Showing we love through sacrifice leads others to where true love is revealed in its greatest capacity.
Sacrifice is the will of God - for Jesus and for us!
Love can always be equated with sacrifice. Love cannot be truely evident without sacrifice. Where there is no sacrifice, there is no love.
Jesus is such an example of flesh being crucified. We see in the garden where he wrestled his flesh as he agonized over drinking from the cup. Can you imagine what it sounded like as he cried out to his father to let this cup pass from him? The decision he made in the garden determined his steps toward the cross - the ultimate sacrifice. It was at the cross where his true love for us was revealed in its greatest capacity.
As humans we struggle with our flesh when someone asks us to give them a ride to an appointment. We struggle with our willingness to make someone a meal when they are sick. We struggle to feed the poor when we see them using cell phones. We struggle turning off the TV in order to spend time in prayer and in the word. We struggle doing anything when we don't get paid for it. Where selfishness abides, love cannot.
Choosing to wrestle our flesh away and sacrifice for others is the only way we will ever be able to show those around us what true love is. Our willingness to wrestle our flesh away is our act of love toward God by being obedient to God and his word. Our willingness to sacrifice of ourselves is our means to touch others with the love of God.
Saying we love is not enough. Showing we love through sacrifice leads others to where true love is revealed in its greatest capacity.
Sacrifice is the will of God - for Jesus and for us!
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Remain in the Son
1 John 2:24 says, "See that what you have heard from the begining remains in you. If it does, you also will remain in the Son and in the Father."
As I did my morning reading from the book of 1 John 2, the truth jumped right out at me in regards to the antichrist. Verses 18-20 says this: Dear children, this is the last hour; and as you have heard that the antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come. This is how we know it is the last hour. They went out from us, but they did not really belong to us. For if they had belonged to us, they would have remained with us; but their going showed that none of them belonged to us.
There are so many different teachings in the world today. We are not to love the world or anything in the world. We should have no part of teachings that do not line up with God's word. Different teachings can cause confusion. Let's not be confused - ONLY God's teachings are true!
As Christians, it is so important to be in the word. It enables us to distinguish between what is true and what is false. What is being taught by those around us - in the church and out of the church? People have been known to fall away from the truth. They are in our fellowship for a period of time and choose to adapt to other teachings. If they belonged to us, they would have remained. I am not talking about moving to a different church - I am talking about those who are adapting to teachings that are deceptive and filled with untruths, therefore they are not able to stay in the church.
Remain in the one true vine. Don't be deceived. Stay true to God's word. If what is being discussed as people share teachings and opinions don't line up with the truth - reject it, for it is not from God it is from the world.
See that what you heard from the begining remains in you!
As I did my morning reading from the book of 1 John 2, the truth jumped right out at me in regards to the antichrist. Verses 18-20 says this: Dear children, this is the last hour; and as you have heard that the antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come. This is how we know it is the last hour. They went out from us, but they did not really belong to us. For if they had belonged to us, they would have remained with us; but their going showed that none of them belonged to us.
There are so many different teachings in the world today. We are not to love the world or anything in the world. We should have no part of teachings that do not line up with God's word. Different teachings can cause confusion. Let's not be confused - ONLY God's teachings are true!
As Christians, it is so important to be in the word. It enables us to distinguish between what is true and what is false. What is being taught by those around us - in the church and out of the church? People have been known to fall away from the truth. They are in our fellowship for a period of time and choose to adapt to other teachings. If they belonged to us, they would have remained. I am not talking about moving to a different church - I am talking about those who are adapting to teachings that are deceptive and filled with untruths, therefore they are not able to stay in the church.
Remain in the one true vine. Don't be deceived. Stay true to God's word. If what is being discussed as people share teachings and opinions don't line up with the truth - reject it, for it is not from God it is from the world.
See that what you heard from the begining remains in you!
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