One word was in my spirit upon arising from slumber the other day. It was the word "revive". That one word was the direction we used to direct our time of intercession last night. As four ladies gathered together, the Holy Spirit spoke to us some great encouragement that is needed for each of us. May you be encouraged in your spirit through this impartation.
When I looked up the word "revive" in the Thesaurus, these are some of the words that followed: reanimate, refresh, bring back, reestablish, rally and to perk up. Going farther, I then looked up the word "refresh" which said, invigorate, stimulate, renew, recharge, re-create.
Our discussion began by recognizing that as intercessors, it is very important that we take time to get refreshed as well. Often prayer needs take time, warfare, fasting, resisting. There are seasons that you feel that you need to "press through". Sometimes our hearts are so filled with the desire to pray (often for others more than even ourselves) that we neglect the importance and benefits of rest. I am not saying that you need to stop praying - we are to pray without ceasing. But there is an aspect of prayer that speaks no words; it simply listens. It is when we stop doing the talking and get to the place where we hear what God wants to speak.
It is a time when we draw close to God and allow him to "minster to us". A time to be still and know that He is God. Think how many times throughout the day, weeks, months, even years that you spend ministering to other peoples needs and praying for their needs, or you spend ministering to God by pouring forth your adoration and praise. A challenging questions needs to be posed to every Christian: When is the last time you just sat and allowed God to minister to you? When is the last time you sat in His presence and said absolutely nothing and waited for him to speak comfort, truth, and refreshment to you?
Jesus set examples for us to follow on several occasions where he went off alone to pray. He needed to be with the Father to hear what the Father had to say and to be refreshed, to be comforted, and to even have reassurance as he asked the father to take the cup. Jesus was ministered to by the Father. We need to be ministered to as well.
Take time today to get off to a quite place with God and wait for him to minister refreshment back to your spirit, then arise and continue on. Taking time out for "you" to be ministered to will actually cause you to become stronger so that you can continue to run the race!
Friday, June 19, 2009
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
He Touched My Mind
I love that song, "Look What the Lord Has Done"! He truly has touched my mind so many times and continues to do so as I wash it with His Word. Learning to take every thought captive is quite a discipline and takes a willingness on our end to see and think of things differently. Our heightened emotions must become completely surrendered to His Word.
The last two nights I have found to be great reminders of the deliverance that God has brought into my life. For most of my life, I was terrified of thunder storms. At the sound of them I would flee to my basement and rock back and forth in self comfort. Just seeing the clouds roll in would begin the tormenting process of my mind.
Right after I asked Jesus to be my Lord and Savior, this was one of the first areas that God touched in my mind as he taught me the power of His word and taught me how to trust in Him. It began with the usual trip to the basement, but with my Bible in my hand. I would sit there in the midst of the thunderous sounds reading the Word of God out loud. The next time, not only would I read the Word out loud, but I also started to pray out loud the Truths that I knew. Little by little I saw and received the comfort and deliverance of the Lord. After a couple of seasons of summertime storms, I no longer ran for the basement, but was able to stay upstairs. Today I can even look at them with amazement from my window as I stand in awe of God's great display of power.
This morning I am reminded of the very Word that taught me the discipline needed to bring deliverance to my mind. It is found in Philippians 4:6-9 and it says this, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me - put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you."
God doesn't take the storms of life away, but he can change how we respond to them. He is the peace in the midst of the storm. Surrender your anxious thoughts to God and allow him to touch your mind.
The last two nights I have found to be great reminders of the deliverance that God has brought into my life. For most of my life, I was terrified of thunder storms. At the sound of them I would flee to my basement and rock back and forth in self comfort. Just seeing the clouds roll in would begin the tormenting process of my mind.
Right after I asked Jesus to be my Lord and Savior, this was one of the first areas that God touched in my mind as he taught me the power of His word and taught me how to trust in Him. It began with the usual trip to the basement, but with my Bible in my hand. I would sit there in the midst of the thunderous sounds reading the Word of God out loud. The next time, not only would I read the Word out loud, but I also started to pray out loud the Truths that I knew. Little by little I saw and received the comfort and deliverance of the Lord. After a couple of seasons of summertime storms, I no longer ran for the basement, but was able to stay upstairs. Today I can even look at them with amazement from my window as I stand in awe of God's great display of power.
This morning I am reminded of the very Word that taught me the discipline needed to bring deliverance to my mind. It is found in Philippians 4:6-9 and it says this, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me - put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you."
God doesn't take the storms of life away, but he can change how we respond to them. He is the peace in the midst of the storm. Surrender your anxious thoughts to God and allow him to touch your mind.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
O Sovereign Lord
I have been studying Ezekiel chapter 37. Spending time breaking it down, asking myself questions, noting the stages that things happen, pondering the power of the prophetic word. Often I try to put myself in someones shoes. What did Ezekiel see? What did he think? How did he respond? These are just a few of the questions that come to mind as I sit back to reflect what it must have been like to witness a valley of dry bones come back to life.
The first thing that captured my attention was a conversation that Ezekiel had with the Lord. In verse 3 it says, "He asked me, "Son of man, can these bones live?" I said, "O Sovereign Lord, you alone know." Right in this one little verse life lessons are found.
God often challenges us by posing a question. We see it here with Ezekiel and we see it again in Isaiah 6 when God says "Who will go?". The answer to the challenging questions is what reflects who we trust, what we believe, our willingness to obey, and our level of faithfulness.
Ezekiel's response also brings us a valuable lesson as he says, "O Sovereign Lord". The definition of Sovereign is "one having supreme power". Supreme means the "highest or the utmost". Ezekiel recognized who God truly was. In other words he was saying, "You have supreme power Lord" or "you have the utmost power Lord". Recognizing and believing that God can do ANYTHING puts him and keeps him in the rightful place! If we walk in this kind of faith, I do not believe that trust would be an issue for any of us!
The second part of Ezekiel's response was, "You alone know". We must come to grips with the reality that God's ways are higher than ours and, try as we may, that we will NEVER be able to figure God out! His response was so quick, so certain. If God posed that question to me, I may possibly have spent several weeks, months, or years trying to figure out how this could all really happen before I came to terms to walk by faith and not by sight. There is no need for us to strive to figure out God; the rest comes in trusting God.
Today let our response be "O Sovereign Lord" as we walk believing that he alone has the supreme power to do what he sees needs to be done.
The first thing that captured my attention was a conversation that Ezekiel had with the Lord. In verse 3 it says, "He asked me, "Son of man, can these bones live?" I said, "O Sovereign Lord, you alone know." Right in this one little verse life lessons are found.
God often challenges us by posing a question. We see it here with Ezekiel and we see it again in Isaiah 6 when God says "Who will go?". The answer to the challenging questions is what reflects who we trust, what we believe, our willingness to obey, and our level of faithfulness.
Ezekiel's response also brings us a valuable lesson as he says, "O Sovereign Lord". The definition of Sovereign is "one having supreme power". Supreme means the "highest or the utmost". Ezekiel recognized who God truly was. In other words he was saying, "You have supreme power Lord" or "you have the utmost power Lord". Recognizing and believing that God can do ANYTHING puts him and keeps him in the rightful place! If we walk in this kind of faith, I do not believe that trust would be an issue for any of us!
The second part of Ezekiel's response was, "You alone know". We must come to grips with the reality that God's ways are higher than ours and, try as we may, that we will NEVER be able to figure God out! His response was so quick, so certain. If God posed that question to me, I may possibly have spent several weeks, months, or years trying to figure out how this could all really happen before I came to terms to walk by faith and not by sight. There is no need for us to strive to figure out God; the rest comes in trusting God.
Today let our response be "O Sovereign Lord" as we walk believing that he alone has the supreme power to do what he sees needs to be done.
Friday, June 5, 2009
He Can Move
I awoke this morning to my spirit singing, "Savior, He can move the Mountains, He is mighty to save, He is mighty to save..." What trust and assurance is in my spirit today knowing that "He can move" the mountains! Every obstacle in the way of my loved ones salvation...he can move!
There is no doubt in my mind that he is able. So often I equate the ability to moving the mountain to the degree of "faith" I have. But today I am seeing it a little differently. Today I am looking at it from the aspect of "trust". Often I have prayed in "faith", but to day I am resting in "trust". I am not trusting in my faith, but in my God!
Only God can turn the heart like rivers of water in the hand of the King. Only God can take a heart of stone and turn it into a heart of flesh.
My spirit is arising to trust that God can (and will!) move the mountain of hard stone that surrounds that the precious heart of flesh. Only when the mountain is moved, are you able to see the beauty that is on the other side.
I use Ezekiel 36:26 to form a prayer of petition for those in need of salvation and for a softening of the heart. It says, "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws."
Chapter 36 contains so many words that can be used for petitioning the Lord for yourself as well as for others. Be encouraged to read through the entire chapter and spend time praying from God's word. And know, that "He can move"!
There is no doubt in my mind that he is able. So often I equate the ability to moving the mountain to the degree of "faith" I have. But today I am seeing it a little differently. Today I am looking at it from the aspect of "trust". Often I have prayed in "faith", but to day I am resting in "trust". I am not trusting in my faith, but in my God!
Only God can turn the heart like rivers of water in the hand of the King. Only God can take a heart of stone and turn it into a heart of flesh.
My spirit is arising to trust that God can (and will!) move the mountain of hard stone that surrounds that the precious heart of flesh. Only when the mountain is moved, are you able to see the beauty that is on the other side.
I use Ezekiel 36:26 to form a prayer of petition for those in need of salvation and for a softening of the heart. It says, "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws."
Chapter 36 contains so many words that can be used for petitioning the Lord for yourself as well as for others. Be encouraged to read through the entire chapter and spend time praying from God's word. And know, that "He can move"!
Friday, May 29, 2009
All Stirred Up
2 Tim 1:6 says, "For this reason I remind you to stir into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands."
Let's allow God to inspire us by focusing on three words, "stir into flame". Sometimes breaking down the word of God shows us that there is a process at work.
Fires don't just happen. Something has to happen in which they are ignited. Be it a bolt of lightning, a piece of flint, a match etc. Once a fire gets going it will only stay going if it has the right ingredients like more wood, wind or other added accelerants. If there is nothing to sustain the fire, it will become smoldering embers and eventually die out.
When there are still smoldering embers, then there is still an ability to reignite the fire. The process is simple. Just stir it up and add a burnable substance.
That's how our spirits are. They go through times of burning bright, and then they go through a smoldering process. You may even wonder if there is absolutely anything left. To find out, stir back into flame the gift God has given you. It's not so hard to do.
Most times we just need to start to speak of the things God is speaking to us or even what he has done for us. "God talk" is great fuel to pour on our spirits in order to get us all fired up again. The substance of God's presence and his word added to the stirring process will refresh the fire that once burned bright.
Take time today to share with someone else something that God has done in your life. Thinking about God and speaking about God are two great tools to use for stirring your spirit back up!
Let's allow God to inspire us by focusing on three words, "stir into flame". Sometimes breaking down the word of God shows us that there is a process at work.
Fires don't just happen. Something has to happen in which they are ignited. Be it a bolt of lightning, a piece of flint, a match etc. Once a fire gets going it will only stay going if it has the right ingredients like more wood, wind or other added accelerants. If there is nothing to sustain the fire, it will become smoldering embers and eventually die out.
When there are still smoldering embers, then there is still an ability to reignite the fire. The process is simple. Just stir it up and add a burnable substance.
That's how our spirits are. They go through times of burning bright, and then they go through a smoldering process. You may even wonder if there is absolutely anything left. To find out, stir back into flame the gift God has given you. It's not so hard to do.
Most times we just need to start to speak of the things God is speaking to us or even what he has done for us. "God talk" is great fuel to pour on our spirits in order to get us all fired up again. The substance of God's presence and his word added to the stirring process will refresh the fire that once burned bright.
Take time today to share with someone else something that God has done in your life. Thinking about God and speaking about God are two great tools to use for stirring your spirit back up!
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
The Attitude
This morning I arose with a determined attitude. An attitude to praise the Lord NO MATTER what!
Is God not worthy of our praise NO MATTER what is going on in our lives or what is happening around us? Isn't God, still God, NO MATTER what?
God is to be enthroned on the praises of our spirits regardless of what is happening in the natural. All honor, all glory, all power. God gives us the ability to see him and hear him all around us and in each and every circumstance. How exciting to know that we have a God who makes His presence known!
I am determined today to have an attitude of praise that will allow no rock to out praise me. That attitude of praise will keep me excited about God as I anticipate seeing him in my midst today. I can hardly wait to tell those around me all about his goodness and his faithfulness.
Praise God from whom ALL blessings flow!
Is God not worthy of our praise NO MATTER what is going on in our lives or what is happening around us? Isn't God, still God, NO MATTER what?
God is to be enthroned on the praises of our spirits regardless of what is happening in the natural. All honor, all glory, all power. God gives us the ability to see him and hear him all around us and in each and every circumstance. How exciting to know that we have a God who makes His presence known!
I am determined today to have an attitude of praise that will allow no rock to out praise me. That attitude of praise will keep me excited about God as I anticipate seeing him in my midst today. I can hardly wait to tell those around me all about his goodness and his faithfulness.
Praise God from whom ALL blessings flow!
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
The Shelter
Lincoln Brewster has a song out with the words, "There's no greater place that I'd rather be, than safe in the arms, the arms of my Savior..."
When I hear this song it reminds me of the comfort found in Psalms 91:1-2, "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust."
What amazing comfort comes from being in the shelter of God. It is a place of protection, a shield, and a place of refuge. It is a place where there is absolute calm from every storm that arises. It is a place where you can go and feel his love casting out all fear. It's a place of security as your weaknesses are exchanged for his strength.
The Shelter door is always open and we are always welcome. Sometimes we don't see the need to "enter in" until the storms of life arise. God draws us to his side, to the place that we can rest in his shadow. No striving needed for this is a place to come and get ministered to. A time you don't need to do a thing but...rest in the Shelter of the Almighty.
When I hear this song it reminds me of the comfort found in Psalms 91:1-2, "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust."
What amazing comfort comes from being in the shelter of God. It is a place of protection, a shield, and a place of refuge. It is a place where there is absolute calm from every storm that arises. It is a place where you can go and feel his love casting out all fear. It's a place of security as your weaknesses are exchanged for his strength.
The Shelter door is always open and we are always welcome. Sometimes we don't see the need to "enter in" until the storms of life arise. God draws us to his side, to the place that we can rest in his shadow. No striving needed for this is a place to come and get ministered to. A time you don't need to do a thing but...rest in the Shelter of the Almighty.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Touched By the Master's Hand
I love quotes. Words of inspiration spoken by others, most of whom are personally unknown, that leave a profound impact on your life. A very special friend sent me a quote the other day, that continues to dance around my thoughts as I continue to hold on to the one who continues to hold on to me.
Words of inspiration are great, but I have yet to find (nor will I ever) anything that has impacted my life as the times that I have been touched by the hand of my Master. The Master has left his hand print on so many areas of my life. Each season has brought forth a fresh work along with a fresh touch.
A strong hand delivering me from a pit, or a strong hand of correction. A gentle hand of comfort or of love. A hand of encouragement guiding my steps of faith or pushing me beyond what I could ever imagine possible. A hand placed upon my life as he dances with me in the secret chambers.
I think his hand is always upon us, we just don't always notice. One thing I know to be true is that when we are aware of his touch that our lives are forever changed. The relationship we have with him becomes more and more personal as we become more aware of his presence. Spend some time today to think about all the ways he has touched your life and how your life has been changed by the touch of the Master's hand.
Words of inspiration are great, but I have yet to find (nor will I ever) anything that has impacted my life as the times that I have been touched by the hand of my Master. The Master has left his hand print on so many areas of my life. Each season has brought forth a fresh work along with a fresh touch.
A strong hand delivering me from a pit, or a strong hand of correction. A gentle hand of comfort or of love. A hand of encouragement guiding my steps of faith or pushing me beyond what I could ever imagine possible. A hand placed upon my life as he dances with me in the secret chambers.
I think his hand is always upon us, we just don't always notice. One thing I know to be true is that when we are aware of his touch that our lives are forever changed. The relationship we have with him becomes more and more personal as we become more aware of his presence. Spend some time today to think about all the ways he has touched your life and how your life has been changed by the touch of the Master's hand.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
A Love That Builds
What an amazing night we had last night at worship practice. The Holy Spirit poured fourth much needed encouragement to each one on the team. What precious people God has privileged us to be around.
How God touched my heart and filled me with such joy as each person so lovingly prayed for another. The prophetic words and words of encouragement were renewing and refreshing the saints. Spirits were being stirred back into flame.
It tends to be the "quiet" ones that touch me the deepest. It's like watching the birth of a new seed breaking through the ground. You just know it's going to bring forth fruit in its season! You just want to shout out "keep growing...don't stop". I think I witnessed a few growth spurts last night! Encouragement is the Miracle Grow of God!
The "fruit inspectors" are the ones that keep making you aware that you do not labor in vain. That what you do counts and is effective. They are the ones that remind you of the purpose and the plan that God has for you, and recognize the food that you serve from the Master's table. They are also the ones that wash you, polish you and present you to others in a way that you often do not see yourself.
Then you have the "transporters" that help bring you from the place where you are to the place God desires you to go. When you have no strength or you don't know how God is ever going to do something, they carry you in the Spirit and place you before the throne and wait with you until God moves on your behalf.
1 Thess 5:11 says, "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing."
How God touched my heart and filled me with such joy as each person so lovingly prayed for another. The prophetic words and words of encouragement were renewing and refreshing the saints. Spirits were being stirred back into flame.
It tends to be the "quiet" ones that touch me the deepest. It's like watching the birth of a new seed breaking through the ground. You just know it's going to bring forth fruit in its season! You just want to shout out "keep growing...don't stop". I think I witnessed a few growth spurts last night! Encouragement is the Miracle Grow of God!
The "fruit inspectors" are the ones that keep making you aware that you do not labor in vain. That what you do counts and is effective. They are the ones that remind you of the purpose and the plan that God has for you, and recognize the food that you serve from the Master's table. They are also the ones that wash you, polish you and present you to others in a way that you often do not see yourself.
Then you have the "transporters" that help bring you from the place where you are to the place God desires you to go. When you have no strength or you don't know how God is ever going to do something, they carry you in the Spirit and place you before the throne and wait with you until God moves on your behalf.
1 Thess 5:11 says, "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing."
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Keeping Your Word
God always keeps His word, being faithful to do everything He says He is going to do! You can always count on God!
The questions I am pondering this morning is "Can God always count on me to keep my word?", and "If I tell God I am going to do something, do I follow through?".
Giving our word to God that we will do something is the same as giving our word to our neighbor that we will do something. What we say to God will have to be walked out in the natural. God does not simply want our lip service and neither does our neighbor. Where would we be if God only gave us lip service? Lip service never accomplishes anything; it is dead works. "Action" is the proof in the pudding so to speak. Faith without action always results in dead works; as do words with no weight.
Matthew 5:33 says, "Do not break your oath, but keep the oaths you have made to the Lord." and in verse 37 it says, "Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes', and your 'No' be 'No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.
My husband, son, and myself stopped to pay an elderly neighbor a visit the other night. We had a precious time together as she showed us her beautiful gardens and the work she has had done to her house. She made reference several times that many people stop and tell her that "all she needs to do is...". Things like filling holes in her yard, clipping back perennials etc. They have told her that they would stop by and help her with such and such. While there, she shared how she was allergic to bees. Upon seeing a nest above her front door, my husband said he would take it down. He reached up and simply took it down for her. She had a rose bush that needed to be pruned but didn't have anything to cut it with so I told her I would do it. The next day the rose bush was pruned. Basic simple acts of service.
I received a call from her last night and was shocked by her overflowing gratitude and appreciation for helping her. She said to me, "Many people say they are going to do something for me, but no one has ever actually followed through and done it." This is a statement made by one of the kindest and most giving people I know.
God wants our commitment. He wants us to keep our word by doing what we say we will do. We will have to apply action to our words. God often uses the most simplest of things to test our faithfulness and devotion to him. Keep your word to God for whatever you do, remember, you do unto Him.
The questions I am pondering this morning is "Can God always count on me to keep my word?", and "If I tell God I am going to do something, do I follow through?".
Giving our word to God that we will do something is the same as giving our word to our neighbor that we will do something. What we say to God will have to be walked out in the natural. God does not simply want our lip service and neither does our neighbor. Where would we be if God only gave us lip service? Lip service never accomplishes anything; it is dead works. "Action" is the proof in the pudding so to speak. Faith without action always results in dead works; as do words with no weight.
Matthew 5:33 says, "Do not break your oath, but keep the oaths you have made to the Lord." and in verse 37 it says, "Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes', and your 'No' be 'No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.
My husband, son, and myself stopped to pay an elderly neighbor a visit the other night. We had a precious time together as she showed us her beautiful gardens and the work she has had done to her house. She made reference several times that many people stop and tell her that "all she needs to do is...". Things like filling holes in her yard, clipping back perennials etc. They have told her that they would stop by and help her with such and such. While there, she shared how she was allergic to bees. Upon seeing a nest above her front door, my husband said he would take it down. He reached up and simply took it down for her. She had a rose bush that needed to be pruned but didn't have anything to cut it with so I told her I would do it. The next day the rose bush was pruned. Basic simple acts of service.
I received a call from her last night and was shocked by her overflowing gratitude and appreciation for helping her. She said to me, "Many people say they are going to do something for me, but no one has ever actually followed through and done it." This is a statement made by one of the kindest and most giving people I know.
God wants our commitment. He wants us to keep our word by doing what we say we will do. We will have to apply action to our words. God often uses the most simplest of things to test our faithfulness and devotion to him. Keep your word to God for whatever you do, remember, you do unto Him.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Giving Honor Where Due
I just love Mother's Day! What a wonderful opportunity it is to honor both our natural mothers' as well as our spiritual mothers'. As daughters, I don't think we could ever honor our mothers' enough. Just think of all things they do, all the sacrifices they make, and all the love they pour fourth.
The Bible tells us to give honor where honor is due. Take time to seek the Lord and to ask him just how he would like you to show honor to your mother. One of the last gifts I ever gave to my mother was a "Mother's Day Love Letter". To be honest, I don't know who it ministered more to. For me it was incredible revelation as to the work and growth that God had done in my heart. It also was a time that God magnified the restoration he had done in my relationship with my mother. To my mother I am certain they were words that she waited desperately to hear from a child that caused her many sleepless nights. I am certain that that specific day, my mother was so honored that she must have felt like the most loved and appreciated mother that there ever could be. After my mother went home to be with Jesus I came across that "Love Letter" in the top drawer of the hutch and knew that my mother thought "That's a keeper!". Now I, the daughter have that letter in my possession, to be an everlasting reminder of the deep love and appreciation that God has placed in my heart for my mother. What was a gift for her has become a cherished gift for me!
God has given me another gift after the passing of my mother. He has sent me a woman of God into my life to act as a "Spiritual Mother" to me. I find myself seeking the Lord to show me ways that I can honor and to pour out my love, respect, and appreciation upon her. There is something very beautiful that happens when we take time to honor the women in our lives. I just love to make people feel special and in return God makes me feel so special. Being a daughter is such a blessing!
As I prepared a new "Love Letter" last week to accompany a gift to send off to my spiritual mother, I came across scripture from the book of Proverbs that God used to lay the foundation of my letter. I pray that this scripture ministers to her as it has become a "scripture to grow by" for me.
Prov 11:16
A kindhearted woman gains respect (NIV)
A woman of gentle grace gets respect (MESSAGE)
A gracious woman retaineth honour (KJ)
The Bible tells us to give honor where honor is due. Take time to seek the Lord and to ask him just how he would like you to show honor to your mother. One of the last gifts I ever gave to my mother was a "Mother's Day Love Letter". To be honest, I don't know who it ministered more to. For me it was incredible revelation as to the work and growth that God had done in my heart. It also was a time that God magnified the restoration he had done in my relationship with my mother. To my mother I am certain they were words that she waited desperately to hear from a child that caused her many sleepless nights. I am certain that that specific day, my mother was so honored that she must have felt like the most loved and appreciated mother that there ever could be. After my mother went home to be with Jesus I came across that "Love Letter" in the top drawer of the hutch and knew that my mother thought "That's a keeper!". Now I, the daughter have that letter in my possession, to be an everlasting reminder of the deep love and appreciation that God has placed in my heart for my mother. What was a gift for her has become a cherished gift for me!
God has given me another gift after the passing of my mother. He has sent me a woman of God into my life to act as a "Spiritual Mother" to me. I find myself seeking the Lord to show me ways that I can honor and to pour out my love, respect, and appreciation upon her. There is something very beautiful that happens when we take time to honor the women in our lives. I just love to make people feel special and in return God makes me feel so special. Being a daughter is such a blessing!
As I prepared a new "Love Letter" last week to accompany a gift to send off to my spiritual mother, I came across scripture from the book of Proverbs that God used to lay the foundation of my letter. I pray that this scripture ministers to her as it has become a "scripture to grow by" for me.
Prov 11:16
A kindhearted woman gains respect (NIV)
A woman of gentle grace gets respect (MESSAGE)
A gracious woman retaineth honour (KJ)
Monday, April 27, 2009
Awaken the Dawn
Psalm 57:7-8 says, "My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and make music. Awake, my soul! Awake, harp and lyre! I will awaken the dawn."
It doesn't really matter what has gone on before the eyelids close at the end of the day, nor does it matter if the eyelids were open throughout the watch of night. The attitude of our hearts need to be steadfast upon God. No matter what has happened or what might happen, we have developed a determined "steadfast attitude".
Being steadfast on God means that you have resolved to be in a firm place. We have to be determined in our minds to be determined in our hearts. When steadfastness is in your heart, then out of the overflow of your heart praises will flow.
Close your eyes for a moment and just imagine singing a song of praise that wakes up your soul. Imagine how your praise meets and awakens the dawn. How beautiful is that?
Praise awakens our souls. Sometimes we need a little extra nudge to arise from slumber. Praise is the very ingredient that stirs us up and awakens us. It is a vital key to implement the start of a brand new day. Praise is to the soul what coffee is to the metabolism. It says, "Today is the day that the Lord has made! I will rejoice and be glad in it!" It is time to wake up and delight in the Lord!
Awaken the new day with a new song. Yesterday is gone, a new day has sprung and has been ushered in through your praise. Awaken your soul and meet the dawn of a new day filled with your praise. Praise the Lord, O my soul; and all my inmost being! Praise His holy name!
It doesn't really matter what has gone on before the eyelids close at the end of the day, nor does it matter if the eyelids were open throughout the watch of night. The attitude of our hearts need to be steadfast upon God. No matter what has happened or what might happen, we have developed a determined "steadfast attitude".
Being steadfast on God means that you have resolved to be in a firm place. We have to be determined in our minds to be determined in our hearts. When steadfastness is in your heart, then out of the overflow of your heart praises will flow.
Close your eyes for a moment and just imagine singing a song of praise that wakes up your soul. Imagine how your praise meets and awakens the dawn. How beautiful is that?
Praise awakens our souls. Sometimes we need a little extra nudge to arise from slumber. Praise is the very ingredient that stirs us up and awakens us. It is a vital key to implement the start of a brand new day. Praise is to the soul what coffee is to the metabolism. It says, "Today is the day that the Lord has made! I will rejoice and be glad in it!" It is time to wake up and delight in the Lord!
Awaken the new day with a new song. Yesterday is gone, a new day has sprung and has been ushered in through your praise. Awaken your soul and meet the dawn of a new day filled with your praise. Praise the Lord, O my soul; and all my inmost being! Praise His holy name!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
God's Eye View
I got thinking this morning that one persons anger can be another persons doubt which can be another persons anxiety. Our response to how we face difficult storms and trials can be so different from one person to another. Yet I do believe that the root of reality is that we each struggle with our own ability to trust God.
What God uses in our lives to teach and to train us to trust him also differs so greatly. For one person it may be abuse, for another a job loss, for another sickness, for another a spiritual battle, and for another death. Why? Why? Why?
God could have chosen any number of ways to teach us lessons that would cause us to trust him more today than we did yesterday, but for some reason known to him alone, he has chosen to place us on the path we now are embarking. Do you trust him to lead you, to keep you safe, to give him full control? Oh how our heels dig in at times!
Two people inspire my faith greatly as I think about their path this morning. The first one is Jesus. He was led into the desert full of the Spirit. Forty nights and days in a dry land, being tempted by Satan on more than one account. When God's desired time was up, Jesus left the desert full of the Spirit. Keeping your spirit filled with the fullness of the Spirit of God during dry times is never an easy task. Yet if Jesus was able so are we.
The second one that inspired my faith today is Job. An obedient man of God who God allowed to be tested knowing that he would be found faithful. The beginning of a time of testing is always the easiest. As the battles rage, even the most faithful can grow weary and want to give up. No matter how bad things got he never cursed God. Something deep inside held on to God. When Job came out of the toughest time of his life, "The Lord blessed the latter part of Job's life more than the first" (Job 42:12). Obedience and faithfulness must always be sent through the fire - there is no other way it can be tested to be proven faithful.
Often we try to figure God out. Why is he doing this? What did we do? What didn't we do? We are only human that we would question God's motives and ways. Today we will be left with an answer that God spoke to Job. An answer by God, posed as a question, that demanded an answer from Job. Job 38:4 says, "Where were you when I laid the earth's foundation? Tell me, if you understand."
What God uses in our lives to teach and to train us to trust him also differs so greatly. For one person it may be abuse, for another a job loss, for another sickness, for another a spiritual battle, and for another death. Why? Why? Why?
God could have chosen any number of ways to teach us lessons that would cause us to trust him more today than we did yesterday, but for some reason known to him alone, he has chosen to place us on the path we now are embarking. Do you trust him to lead you, to keep you safe, to give him full control? Oh how our heels dig in at times!
Two people inspire my faith greatly as I think about their path this morning. The first one is Jesus. He was led into the desert full of the Spirit. Forty nights and days in a dry land, being tempted by Satan on more than one account. When God's desired time was up, Jesus left the desert full of the Spirit. Keeping your spirit filled with the fullness of the Spirit of God during dry times is never an easy task. Yet if Jesus was able so are we.
The second one that inspired my faith today is Job. An obedient man of God who God allowed to be tested knowing that he would be found faithful. The beginning of a time of testing is always the easiest. As the battles rage, even the most faithful can grow weary and want to give up. No matter how bad things got he never cursed God. Something deep inside held on to God. When Job came out of the toughest time of his life, "The Lord blessed the latter part of Job's life more than the first" (Job 42:12). Obedience and faithfulness must always be sent through the fire - there is no other way it can be tested to be proven faithful.
Often we try to figure God out. Why is he doing this? What did we do? What didn't we do? We are only human that we would question God's motives and ways. Today we will be left with an answer that God spoke to Job. An answer by God, posed as a question, that demanded an answer from Job. Job 38:4 says, "Where were you when I laid the earth's foundation? Tell me, if you understand."
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Empowering Words to Go
This morning God has put two great scriptures on my heart to encourage our spirits. Because we have the Living God dwelling inside of us, we have truly been equipped for every good work!
Is 61:1 says, "The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners..."
The Spirit of the SOVEREIGN LORD is on us! Do we understand the immensity of this truth? Everywhere we go God's spirit AND anointing is UPON us for a purpose, and that is to preach good news to the poor. God himself has sent us (yes - that includes you!) to bind up the brokenhearted and to proclaim freedom for the captives and to bring release from darkness for the prisoners.
God has equipped us through his indwelling Spirit and through his anointed word to do the work of the kingdom. Everything we have need is found in him!
The second scripture on my mind today is found in 2Peter 1:3-4. It 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. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires."
God did not only give to us his spirit and anointing to help others, but he has given us great and precious promises for everything we need for life and godliness so that we can participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption of the world. Not only does he set us free from the prison of darkness, but then he gives us the keys as to how to stay out.
Not only does God use his word and spirit to equip and empower us, but he then sets his favorable anointing upon us to "go ye" to help those who are in need of the truth that sets them free and brings to them the healing that they are in need of so that they can "go ye".
I hope these words will encourage and empower you to go, remembering that the Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon you!
Is 61:1 says, "The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners..."
The Spirit of the SOVEREIGN LORD is on us! Do we understand the immensity of this truth? Everywhere we go God's spirit AND anointing is UPON us for a purpose, and that is to preach good news to the poor. God himself has sent us (yes - that includes you!) to bind up the brokenhearted and to proclaim freedom for the captives and to bring release from darkness for the prisoners.
God has equipped us through his indwelling Spirit and through his anointed word to do the work of the kingdom. Everything we have need is found in him!
The second scripture on my mind today is found in 2Peter 1:3-4. It 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. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires."
God did not only give to us his spirit and anointing to help others, but he has given us great and precious promises for everything we need for life and godliness so that we can participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption of the world. Not only does he set us free from the prison of darkness, but then he gives us the keys as to how to stay out.
Not only does God use his word and spirit to equip and empower us, but he then sets his favorable anointing upon us to "go ye" to help those who are in need of the truth that sets them free and brings to them the healing that they are in need of so that they can "go ye".
I hope these words will encourage and empower you to go, remembering that the Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon you!
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
A Whole Lot to Boast About
1 Cor 1:31 says, "Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord."
Ps 77:11-12 says, "I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will meditate on all your works and consider all your mighty deeds."
Taking time to look back over the past and see where God has moved on my behalf always brings encouragement to my spirit. Words He has spoken and songs that I have sung in times of trials to keep my spirit strong often have been the dose of encouragement that I have been in need of. Just thinking about God's goodness makes me cry. How he has saved me, how he has set me free, how he has caused me to grow, and how he has poured his love into my life.
In fact, I cannot tell you of a time that my life has ever felt better. Trials and hardships are still there, as well as sporadic spurts of fear and doubt. I guess the difference is that I am viewing them from a different perspective now. Instead of trying to out run the storms, I have learned to embrace them and to embrace the work God does in me through them.
Without storms and turbulent times in my life, I would not nearly have had the ability to grow the way that I have had, nor would I have any kind of testimony. With every storm I have something new to boast about as I see how the Lord goes about calming that storm. With every enemy that tries to rise up against me, I can see how God fights on my behalf. With every tear that falls, I will have an opportunity to see how God turns it into joy.
God has done so much for me and has answered so many prayers that I have lifted up before him. He has lavished his great love on me and has called me his own. I have a whole lot to boast about!
Ps 77:11-12 says, "I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will meditate on all your works and consider all your mighty deeds."
Taking time to look back over the past and see where God has moved on my behalf always brings encouragement to my spirit. Words He has spoken and songs that I have sung in times of trials to keep my spirit strong often have been the dose of encouragement that I have been in need of. Just thinking about God's goodness makes me cry. How he has saved me, how he has set me free, how he has caused me to grow, and how he has poured his love into my life.
In fact, I cannot tell you of a time that my life has ever felt better. Trials and hardships are still there, as well as sporadic spurts of fear and doubt. I guess the difference is that I am viewing them from a different perspective now. Instead of trying to out run the storms, I have learned to embrace them and to embrace the work God does in me through them.
Without storms and turbulent times in my life, I would not nearly have had the ability to grow the way that I have had, nor would I have any kind of testimony. With every storm I have something new to boast about as I see how the Lord goes about calming that storm. With every enemy that tries to rise up against me, I can see how God fights on my behalf. With every tear that falls, I will have an opportunity to see how God turns it into joy.
God has done so much for me and has answered so many prayers that I have lifted up before him. He has lavished his great love on me and has called me his own. I have a whole lot to boast about!
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Rolling the Stone
Don't you just love it when the Bible characters become so real to you? Sometimes it is as if we are friends walking side by side relating to each others stories!
Today I came across three woman as they were preparing for a beautiful act of service. I caught not only a glimpse of myself in their story, but a lesson to learn as well.
Mark 16:1-4 says, " When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus body. Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb and they asked each other, "Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?" But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away."
I love it! These women new exactly what they needed to do and they went into action. They went beyond their heartbreak and went into service. There was a job that needed to be done and they were set on doing it. They gathered what they were in need of (maybe even checked off their list!) and set off to accomplish what would be to them their final service to Jesus.
What I find to be so beautiful, is their loving devotion to Jesus. They didn't let fear become an obstacle to keep them from applying their faithful service to him. Their faith had action applied to it - right to the end.
As they set off on the path that led them to Jesus, suddenly the revelation of the rock hit them. I would think the conversation amongst themselves may have included questions like, "Now what are we going to do?", "There is no way we have the ability to move the rock!", and "Do you see any men around?""
But something miraculous happened when they lifted their eyes and looked ahead of them...the rock had been rolled away.
Fear is not an obstacle when you allow action to be applied to your faith.
Devote your service with all your heart to the one you love.
Don't look at things that may be too hard or too big in the natural.
Lift your eyes to what is ahead and watch how God rolls away the rock.
Today I came across three woman as they were preparing for a beautiful act of service. I caught not only a glimpse of myself in their story, but a lesson to learn as well.
Mark 16:1-4 says, " When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus body. Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb and they asked each other, "Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?" But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away."
I love it! These women new exactly what they needed to do and they went into action. They went beyond their heartbreak and went into service. There was a job that needed to be done and they were set on doing it. They gathered what they were in need of (maybe even checked off their list!) and set off to accomplish what would be to them their final service to Jesus.
What I find to be so beautiful, is their loving devotion to Jesus. They didn't let fear become an obstacle to keep them from applying their faithful service to him. Their faith had action applied to it - right to the end.
As they set off on the path that led them to Jesus, suddenly the revelation of the rock hit them. I would think the conversation amongst themselves may have included questions like, "Now what are we going to do?", "There is no way we have the ability to move the rock!", and "Do you see any men around?""
But something miraculous happened when they lifted their eyes and looked ahead of them...the rock had been rolled away.
Fear is not an obstacle when you allow action to be applied to your faith.
Devote your service with all your heart to the one you love.
Don't look at things that may be too hard or too big in the natural.
Lift your eyes to what is ahead and watch how God rolls away the rock.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Easier Said Than Done
Some seasons in life are easier than others. There are times of Spring and times of Winter. I have found it to be true that some seasons are quite challenging; sometimes even gut wrenching. I have also found it to be true that sowing in tears reaps abundant joy.
Laying down our lives, surrendering them to the Lord is such a privilege. When life is easy, laying our life down is easy. But when life is hard the sacrifice is even harder. But it is during these times that our true faith is challenged and further developed. It is the test to prove your faithfulness to whom you truly belong.
Today as I read the Word, Jesus became so real to me. As he walked the earth in human form, he too took on the challenge of wrestling through the hardest, most challenging, defining moment of his life. In the Garden of Gethsemane, a cup was set before him. The cup of life or death. The cup of obedience or rebellion. The cup of choice. The cup of decision. It was a cup he had never drank of before as he walked a perfectly obedient path that proved the miraculous ability of his Father. Overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death, he drew closer to the Father in prayer, and cried out "Abba, Father, everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will." The decision Jesus made as he sowed tears of blood, became the abundant joy that you and I now partake of.
Saying that you are laying down your life as a sacrifice and that you've been crucified with Christ are precious declarations that you have made before your Most Holy God. Faith will be tested by fire. It is what reveals that which has been refined. The message you conveyed before the challenge was ever made will be met with the greatest challenge ever..."Yet not my will, but what you will."
"Everything is possible for you" is a statement made from lips that had complete trust. I believe that it was in the garden as Jesus wrestled in prayer that his complete trust in the Father was revealed.
It is in the "garden", wrestling in prayer that our complete trust shall be revealed as well. Remind yourself, as did Jesus, that EVERYTHING is possible for God. Some cups are to be drank from and some are to be passed. We just need to completely trust God.
Laying down our lives, surrendering them to the Lord is such a privilege. When life is easy, laying our life down is easy. But when life is hard the sacrifice is even harder. But it is during these times that our true faith is challenged and further developed. It is the test to prove your faithfulness to whom you truly belong.
Today as I read the Word, Jesus became so real to me. As he walked the earth in human form, he too took on the challenge of wrestling through the hardest, most challenging, defining moment of his life. In the Garden of Gethsemane, a cup was set before him. The cup of life or death. The cup of obedience or rebellion. The cup of choice. The cup of decision. It was a cup he had never drank of before as he walked a perfectly obedient path that proved the miraculous ability of his Father. Overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death, he drew closer to the Father in prayer, and cried out "Abba, Father, everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will." The decision Jesus made as he sowed tears of blood, became the abundant joy that you and I now partake of.
Saying that you are laying down your life as a sacrifice and that you've been crucified with Christ are precious declarations that you have made before your Most Holy God. Faith will be tested by fire. It is what reveals that which has been refined. The message you conveyed before the challenge was ever made will be met with the greatest challenge ever..."Yet not my will, but what you will."
"Everything is possible for you" is a statement made from lips that had complete trust. I believe that it was in the garden as Jesus wrestled in prayer that his complete trust in the Father was revealed.
It is in the "garden", wrestling in prayer that our complete trust shall be revealed as well. Remind yourself, as did Jesus, that EVERYTHING is possible for God. Some cups are to be drank from and some are to be passed. We just need to completely trust God.
Friday, March 6, 2009
A Little of This and That
This morning as I sit to write, I am reminded of a funny little "quirk" that my father had. When my father would sit down to eat his plate of food he would begin by placing the fork into the food positioned at 12:00, take a little of that food onto his fork and then moving clockwise would proceed to add each food accordingly until he returned to 12:00. Like I said it was a "quirk"! He loved to savor the taste of blended foods as he chewed each mouthful 26 times (yes he counted them...another little "quirk" ha ha!). So I take my hat off to my earthly father this morning as I bow in great humility that my heavenly father would see it fit to teach a lesson through something that was the brunt of many family jokes!
It is good to take combined bites of God's word that have been set before you. I am a "one food at a time" kind of person. I do not mix - no, no, no! But today as I read the Word of God a few nuggets jumped out and onto my plate. I think God wants to speak something today as I savor the precious bites together. Jer 15:16 says, "When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart's delight, for I bear your name, O Lord God Almighty."
I encourage you to take these scriptures and to combine them, ponder them and see what God wants to speak to you through them as well. I am certain they will be a well balanced meal!
Bite #1: Go in and take possession of the land that the Lord swore he would give to your fathers... (Deut)
Bite # 2: "Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." (Mark 11)
Bite #3: "Have faith in God" (Mark 11)
It is good to take combined bites of God's word that have been set before you. I am a "one food at a time" kind of person. I do not mix - no, no, no! But today as I read the Word of God a few nuggets jumped out and onto my plate. I think God wants to speak something today as I savor the precious bites together. Jer 15:16 says, "When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart's delight, for I bear your name, O Lord God Almighty."
I encourage you to take these scriptures and to combine them, ponder them and see what God wants to speak to you through them as well. I am certain they will be a well balanced meal!
Bite #1: Go in and take possession of the land that the Lord swore he would give to your fathers... (Deut)
Bite # 2: "Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." (Mark 11)
Bite #3: "Have faith in God" (Mark 11)
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Believe
Sometimes it seems that circumstances or situations have been the same for so long that they will never change. A marriage that is on a rough road, a struggle with addictions, a child that has gone astray or enduring sickness, can each bring about hopelessness.
In Mark:9 we come across a story of a man who was desperate to help his son. From birth something was very wrong with his child. He was robbed of his speech and was experiencing seizures. One thing the father was sure of was that his child was possessed by a spirit. Nothing tried had brought forth the healing freedom that this child was in need of.
The father, hearing of Jesus, brought his child before him in hopes that Jesus could do something to make him better. Gathering around Jesus was the arguing teachers of the law and many disbelieving people. Jesus instructed the father to bring the child to him. Immediately the spirits threw the boy into a convulsion where he fell to the ground rolling and foaming at the mouth. Often, this spirit tried to kill this child by throwing him into fire or water. The boys father desperately said to Jesus, "If you can do anything, take pity on us and help us."
I love Jesus response. "If you can?" said Jesus. "Every thing is possible for him who believes." The boys father said, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief." Upon speaking authoritative words, the evil spirit left and the boy stood up healed!
There are two things at work in this story. One is "believing" and the other one is "overcoming doubt". Often these two are in conflict within the situations we want to see changed. The longer the trial, the longer the battle. Sometimes we get weary while we are waiting.
But our hope comes from the Holy Word, not how our circumstances look. "IF you can" thoughts need to become "EVERYTHING is POSSIBLE" thoughts. Overcoming unbelief is a choice of the flesh that challenges us to walk by faith and not by sight.
Let today be the day that your belief is not overcome by doubt, but that your doubt is overcome by belief!
In Mark:9 we come across a story of a man who was desperate to help his son. From birth something was very wrong with his child. He was robbed of his speech and was experiencing seizures. One thing the father was sure of was that his child was possessed by a spirit. Nothing tried had brought forth the healing freedom that this child was in need of.
The father, hearing of Jesus, brought his child before him in hopes that Jesus could do something to make him better. Gathering around Jesus was the arguing teachers of the law and many disbelieving people. Jesus instructed the father to bring the child to him. Immediately the spirits threw the boy into a convulsion where he fell to the ground rolling and foaming at the mouth. Often, this spirit tried to kill this child by throwing him into fire or water. The boys father desperately said to Jesus, "If you can do anything, take pity on us and help us."
I love Jesus response. "If you can?" said Jesus. "Every thing is possible for him who believes." The boys father said, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief." Upon speaking authoritative words, the evil spirit left and the boy stood up healed!
There are two things at work in this story. One is "believing" and the other one is "overcoming doubt". Often these two are in conflict within the situations we want to see changed. The longer the trial, the longer the battle. Sometimes we get weary while we are waiting.
But our hope comes from the Holy Word, not how our circumstances look. "IF you can" thoughts need to become "EVERYTHING is POSSIBLE" thoughts. Overcoming unbelief is a choice of the flesh that challenges us to walk by faith and not by sight.
Let today be the day that your belief is not overcome by doubt, but that your doubt is overcome by belief!
Saturday, February 28, 2009
The Rock
The Lord spoke to Moses in Numbers 20:8, "Take the staff, and you and your brother Aaron gather the assembly together. Speak to that rock before their eyes and it will pour out its water. You will bring water out of the rock for the community so they and their livestock can drink." Moses struck the rock and water gushed out and the community and their livestock drank. A miracle happened when Moses struck that rock that impacted the entire community.
It took quite some time for the people of Moses to learn to walk in obedience to the ways of God. There were many divine manifestations to turn the people's hearts. Many grumbled and many complained. Many never came to know of the fruit of the promised land.
We too have the ability to reach out and touch a rock that will make a difference in our community. We don't need a staff, we only need a mustard seed of faith. We have the ability to call upon the name of our Rock, Jesus Christ. We can cry out for the living water to be released (gush out!) into our communities to water each and every person.
When we take our mustard seed and apply it with aggressive faith, we too will see miracles happen that will impact our community. There will be many divine manifestations to turn the people's hearts back to God. God will turn a land that is spiritually dry into a land where His Living Water flows quenching each and everyone that is thirsty.
Reach out with faith and strike the Rock that will cause the water to flow in your community!
It took quite some time for the people of Moses to learn to walk in obedience to the ways of God. There were many divine manifestations to turn the people's hearts. Many grumbled and many complained. Many never came to know of the fruit of the promised land.
We too have the ability to reach out and touch a rock that will make a difference in our community. We don't need a staff, we only need a mustard seed of faith. We have the ability to call upon the name of our Rock, Jesus Christ. We can cry out for the living water to be released (gush out!) into our communities to water each and every person.
When we take our mustard seed and apply it with aggressive faith, we too will see miracles happen that will impact our community. There will be many divine manifestations to turn the people's hearts back to God. God will turn a land that is spiritually dry into a land where His Living Water flows quenching each and everyone that is thirsty.
Reach out with faith and strike the Rock that will cause the water to flow in your community!
Friday, February 27, 2009
Your Aroma
A little phrase in the book of Numbers caused me to stop and linger this morning. A time to ponder and search the Word and my heart followed.
The catch phrase was, "An aroma pleasing to God". Stop. Close your eyes and think for a moment. Can you think of a pleasing fragrance?
That's what your sacrificed life has become to God. A pleasing aroma.
Romans 12:1 says, "Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship."
We are living sacrifices that are holy and pleasing to God. Sacrifices are made on altars. Your life laid down on the altar of your heart is such a fragrant spiritual act of worship to God. What an incredible aroma arises to God in the death of his saints.
Our flesh has so many opportunities to grow throughout the day. That is why we are to die daily. Daily, our commitment to die is so that we recognize that it is Christ who truly lives within us.
We have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer we who live, but he who lives within us. Think about the aroma of being crucified with Christ. Talk about two fragrant offerings being sacrificed at one time.
Let the fragrance of your aroma rise unto God!
The catch phrase was, "An aroma pleasing to God". Stop. Close your eyes and think for a moment. Can you think of a pleasing fragrance?
That's what your sacrificed life has become to God. A pleasing aroma.
Romans 12:1 says, "Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship."
We are living sacrifices that are holy and pleasing to God. Sacrifices are made on altars. Your life laid down on the altar of your heart is such a fragrant spiritual act of worship to God. What an incredible aroma arises to God in the death of his saints.
Our flesh has so many opportunities to grow throughout the day. That is why we are to die daily. Daily, our commitment to die is so that we recognize that it is Christ who truly lives within us.
We have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer we who live, but he who lives within us. Think about the aroma of being crucified with Christ. Talk about two fragrant offerings being sacrificed at one time.
Let the fragrance of your aroma rise unto God!
Thursday, February 26, 2009
The Old and the New
Don't throw out the old with the new! What richness is found in the Old Testament and what freedom is found in the New Testament. I love it when God shows us something in the Old Testament and then reveals to us where it is at work in the New Testament. The Bible is a whole. We are not bound to the laws of the Old Testament, but we were never meant to get rid of the whole thing and walk around today as if we can do just anything because we are "free".
This morning while reading in the book of Numbers, I came across a section of scripture I have read numerous times where God speaks to Moses about making tassels to hang on their garments. In chapter 15:37-41 it says, "The Lord said to Moses, "Speak to the Israelites and say to them: "Throughout the generations to come you are to make tassels on the corners of your garments, with a blue cord on each tassel. You will have these tassels to look at and so you will remember all the commands of the Lord, that you may obey him and not prostitute yourselves by going after the lusts of your own hearts and eyes. Then you will remember to obey all my commands and will be consecrated to your God. I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt to be your God. I am the Lord your God."
God gave Moses and the Israelites something that would outwardly remind them to be obedient. This reminder was there to safeguard them against going after the lusts of their own hearts and eyes. It was an outward reminder of and inward covenant.
In a New Testament church, God has not asked nor has required that we where tassels as a reminder of the covenant we have made with him. What God has given us as a reminder is this tool - it's His Word. Psalm 119:11 says, "I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you."
We must take in and hide the Word of God in our hearts so that we too will not go after the lusts of our own hearts and eyes. The Word of God is an inward reminder of an inward covenant that was made, thus giving us and the world an outward manifestation that we are Christians. Christians who obey the Word of God and know that the Lord is our God.
This morning while reading in the book of Numbers, I came across a section of scripture I have read numerous times where God speaks to Moses about making tassels to hang on their garments. In chapter 15:37-41 it says, "The Lord said to Moses, "Speak to the Israelites and say to them: "Throughout the generations to come you are to make tassels on the corners of your garments, with a blue cord on each tassel. You will have these tassels to look at and so you will remember all the commands of the Lord, that you may obey him and not prostitute yourselves by going after the lusts of your own hearts and eyes. Then you will remember to obey all my commands and will be consecrated to your God. I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt to be your God. I am the Lord your God."
God gave Moses and the Israelites something that would outwardly remind them to be obedient. This reminder was there to safeguard them against going after the lusts of their own hearts and eyes. It was an outward reminder of and inward covenant.
In a New Testament church, God has not asked nor has required that we where tassels as a reminder of the covenant we have made with him. What God has given us as a reminder is this tool - it's His Word. Psalm 119:11 says, "I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you."
We must take in and hide the Word of God in our hearts so that we too will not go after the lusts of our own hearts and eyes. The Word of God is an inward reminder of an inward covenant that was made, thus giving us and the world an outward manifestation that we are Christians. Christians who obey the Word of God and know that the Lord is our God.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Seeing Yourself
I must start by apologizing for not writing many entries lately. Inspiration has not been flowing. It may have something to do with the fact that my daily reading has been bringing me through the books of Leviticus and Numbers. Some may find these two books saturated with revelation; hats off to you!
Today upon my reading, I stumbled upon one of my favorite characters, Miriam. Sometimes I have found myself just closing my eyes and trying to think of what it must have looked like when she bent over and took up her tambourine and began to lead others in worship. What strength her worship must have had. I too have even taken pieces of the song she wrote and have put them into songs. Just like Miriam, I love to worship my God.
Today I came across a new revelation imparted by God. It was quite humbling as I took a look into Miriam's mirror and saw a reflection of myself. Not as a worshipper, but as a woman who opened her mouth and spoke words that she shouldn't. She lost sight of the fear of God and spoke words of the flesh that literally cost her her flesh.
Can you imagine jealousy and pride invisibly rising up within that cause you to act and speak in a manner that causes God displeasure? All I can say is "been there done that". Miriam's skin bore the marks of her unwise choices as God inflicted her with leprosy.
When you hold Miriam and Mary Magdalene's mirrors side by side they begin to resemble each others. They were both great worshippers, not because they were great, but because they were humble enough to recognize their wrongs and grab hold of the truth of who God is. One used a tambourine; one used her perfume. How great their worship must have been as they offered it to God.
I think our worship becomes great to God when we clearly see in the mirror who we are, and by realizing that by His great mercy, our mirror image is being changed daily to reflect His.
Ex 15:2 "The Lord is my strength and my song; he has become my victory. He is my God, and I will praise him; he is my father's God, and I will exalt him!"
Today upon my reading, I stumbled upon one of my favorite characters, Miriam. Sometimes I have found myself just closing my eyes and trying to think of what it must have looked like when she bent over and took up her tambourine and began to lead others in worship. What strength her worship must have had. I too have even taken pieces of the song she wrote and have put them into songs. Just like Miriam, I love to worship my God.
Today I came across a new revelation imparted by God. It was quite humbling as I took a look into Miriam's mirror and saw a reflection of myself. Not as a worshipper, but as a woman who opened her mouth and spoke words that she shouldn't. She lost sight of the fear of God and spoke words of the flesh that literally cost her her flesh.
Can you imagine jealousy and pride invisibly rising up within that cause you to act and speak in a manner that causes God displeasure? All I can say is "been there done that". Miriam's skin bore the marks of her unwise choices as God inflicted her with leprosy.
When you hold Miriam and Mary Magdalene's mirrors side by side they begin to resemble each others. They were both great worshippers, not because they were great, but because they were humble enough to recognize their wrongs and grab hold of the truth of who God is. One used a tambourine; one used her perfume. How great their worship must have been as they offered it to God.
I think our worship becomes great to God when we clearly see in the mirror who we are, and by realizing that by His great mercy, our mirror image is being changed daily to reflect His.
Ex 15:2 "The Lord is my strength and my song; he has become my victory. He is my God, and I will praise him; he is my father's God, and I will exalt him!"
Monday, February 23, 2009
My Life
My life has been touched by a skilled and anointed writer. Today I share a beautiful piece written by my friend Risa.
My Life
My life has been made new in Him
no longer does death hold
Forever shall I dance and sing
for now I am His own
You formed my inward parts, O God
within my mother's womb
My frame was forged by Your great love
a moment not too soon
Search me Lord and know my heart
pray turn this stone to flesh
Lay Your hand upon me God
be in my every breath
Refine the treasure hid within
bring forth the crown of gold
Beset with jewels to praise my King
and cast upon His throne
You are my Lord who makes a way
and guides me on a path
Here am I, send me I pray
so others shall not taste death
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
The Briefcase
My briefcase overfloweth. You know what I mean. That semi-large leather bag filled with stuff that for some reason or another I find is important to hold onto. Every now and then, I begin to have shoulder issues also known as bursitis. The pain comes on slowly and then begins to throb while I am trying to get my beauty sleep. The pain becomes so great that I find myself trying not to use that arm at all. With all this said, I have come to two a conclusions. First, the pain in my shoulder is caused by carrying something that is way to heavy for my weak muscles. And second, it is time to remove from the briefcase meaningless things that I have been holding onto.
If you are anything like me, you can easily relate this briefcase analogy to the weights we carry in our life. Try as I may to manage the stress of life, sometimes the weight of what I find myself carrying causes me to become debilitated. The weight of stress will always make itself known. Numerous tests have been done on this topic to prove the effects on our lives. Stress takes it toll on our physical, emotional and spiritual bodies. Headaches, sleeplessness, moodiness, anger and depression are just a few of its symptoms.
The Holy Spirit is our greatest teacher, comforter, healer and deliverer! Just as we have to go through things in our briefcases in the natural and remove unnecessary weights, that is what we have to do within ourselves as well. We need to allow God to search deep within our inmost beings and to remove those things that burden us and cause our spirits to be downcast.
God never intended for us to carry burdens that are too heavy or that were never intended for us to even be carrying. We not only carry our own, but often we fall into carrying other peoples burdens as well. For one reason or another we choose to carry the very things that were meant for Jesus and Jesus alone to carry.
Matthew 11:28-30 says, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Jesus becomes the place of great exchange.
Disciplining ourselves to cast our cares upon the Lord reveals to God that we have truly placed our trust in Him. Casting ALL our cares on God puts him in the place to sustain us - and after all, that is His job, not ours.
What's in your briefcase?
If you are anything like me, you can easily relate this briefcase analogy to the weights we carry in our life. Try as I may to manage the stress of life, sometimes the weight of what I find myself carrying causes me to become debilitated. The weight of stress will always make itself known. Numerous tests have been done on this topic to prove the effects on our lives. Stress takes it toll on our physical, emotional and spiritual bodies. Headaches, sleeplessness, moodiness, anger and depression are just a few of its symptoms.
The Holy Spirit is our greatest teacher, comforter, healer and deliverer! Just as we have to go through things in our briefcases in the natural and remove unnecessary weights, that is what we have to do within ourselves as well. We need to allow God to search deep within our inmost beings and to remove those things that burden us and cause our spirits to be downcast.
God never intended for us to carry burdens that are too heavy or that were never intended for us to even be carrying. We not only carry our own, but often we fall into carrying other peoples burdens as well. For one reason or another we choose to carry the very things that were meant for Jesus and Jesus alone to carry.
Matthew 11:28-30 says, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Jesus becomes the place of great exchange.
Disciplining ourselves to cast our cares upon the Lord reveals to God that we have truly placed our trust in Him. Casting ALL our cares on God puts him in the place to sustain us - and after all, that is His job, not ours.
What's in your briefcase?
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
The Place of Peace
We are so blessed at our church to have an incredibly anointed Worship Leader. She spends a great deal of time in God's presence seeking him for direction and for inspired songs for our corporate worship time on Sunday mornings.
A couple of weeks ago during our warm up session, I had to stop and "thank her" for bringing me into the place that I so needed to get into. It happened again last night at practice. She sought the Lord for just the right song - a new song. As we practiced the anointing fell and we were drawn into the presence of God. Again, it was exactly the place I needed to get into. In both these instances, I experienced the same thing. I experienced the peace of God like never before.
It doesn't matter how difficult things are, what is coming against you, how sick you feel, or what cares you have. These things can't stand in the presence of God. When you are standing before God, consumed in his presence, those things just melt away. It's the place where all worries and fears disappear and are replaced with peace. The "peace that surpasses all understanding" goes from being just words read to becoming an experience of worship; a reality that can be made known only by the touch of his awareness and his presence.
Psalm 91:1-2 He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High, shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, he is my refuge, and my fortress, my God, in Him I will trust.
A couple of weeks ago during our warm up session, I had to stop and "thank her" for bringing me into the place that I so needed to get into. It happened again last night at practice. She sought the Lord for just the right song - a new song. As we practiced the anointing fell and we were drawn into the presence of God. Again, it was exactly the place I needed to get into. In both these instances, I experienced the same thing. I experienced the peace of God like never before.
It doesn't matter how difficult things are, what is coming against you, how sick you feel, or what cares you have. These things can't stand in the presence of God. When you are standing before God, consumed in his presence, those things just melt away. It's the place where all worries and fears disappear and are replaced with peace. The "peace that surpasses all understanding" goes from being just words read to becoming an experience of worship; a reality that can be made known only by the touch of his awareness and his presence.
Psalm 91:1-2 He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High, shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, he is my refuge, and my fortress, my God, in Him I will trust.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Vessels of Honor
Prov 25:4 says, "Remove the dross from the silver, and out comes material for the silversmith". (NIV) Another version says "comes forth a vessel for the finer".
Removing that which is impure from within the vessel will then cause what is poured out to be pure. But purifying from within can be a painful process. Walking through fire is never easy.
We are instructed in 1Thessalonians to "possess our own vessel". In other words, learn and discipline ourselves to walk uprightly. 2Timothy 2:19-21 says, "The Lord knows those who are his," and "Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness." In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some are for noble purposes and some for ignoble. If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work."
Titus 2:11-14 says, "For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope - the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good."
Cup Bearers to the King. That is what we are. Carry your cup with honor and in a way that honors the King.
Removing that which is impure from within the vessel will then cause what is poured out to be pure. But purifying from within can be a painful process. Walking through fire is never easy.
We are instructed in 1Thessalonians to "possess our own vessel". In other words, learn and discipline ourselves to walk uprightly. 2Timothy 2:19-21 says, "The Lord knows those who are his," and "Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness." In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some are for noble purposes and some for ignoble. If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work."
Titus 2:11-14 says, "For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope - the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good."
Cup Bearers to the King. That is what we are. Carry your cup with honor and in a way that honors the King.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
The Whole Truth
We have to be ever so careful to not use God's word out of context. Over the years I have heard and may even myself, recited bits of scripture that roll off the tongue like they are cliches. The problem is that we often only memorize a small piece of scripture and forget about the supporting scriptures. Not only does this cause us not to understand the importance of the word, but it doesn't allow us to sow the reality of God's word. God's truth was never meant to be only given in part or to be watered down.
Many of us have read and heard this bit of scripture found in Psalm 15:1, "Lord, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill?" I am certain that many of you could fill in the piece of scripture that immediately follows; "He whose walk is blameless..." What beautiful scripture. It almost makes it seem easy.
It is the scriptures that follow the ... that really lay out what it means to have a blameless walk. It is these supporting scriptures that not only reveal the magnitude of this task but it presents us with a rather eye opening challenge.
The entire Psalm reads like this (liberty taken for bold capital lettering):
Psalm 15:1-5
Lord, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill?
He whose WALK IS BLAMELESS
and WHO DOES WHAT IS RIGHTEOUS,
who SPEAKS TRUTH FROM HIS HEART
and has NO SLANDER ON HIS TONGUE
who DOES HIS NEIGHBOR NO WRONG
and CASTS NO SLUR ON HIS FELLOWMAN,
who DESPISES A VILE MAN
but HONORS THOSE WHO FEAR THE LORD,
who KEEPS HIS OATH EVEN WHEN IT HURTS,
who LENDS MONEY WITHOUT USURY
and DOES NOT ACCEPT A BRIBE AGAINST THE INNOCENT.
He who does these things will never be shaken.
Keep walking blamelessly in all the above and you will never be shaken.
Many of us have read and heard this bit of scripture found in Psalm 15:1, "Lord, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill?" I am certain that many of you could fill in the piece of scripture that immediately follows; "He whose walk is blameless..." What beautiful scripture. It almost makes it seem easy.
It is the scriptures that follow the ... that really lay out what it means to have a blameless walk. It is these supporting scriptures that not only reveal the magnitude of this task but it presents us with a rather eye opening challenge.
The entire Psalm reads like this (liberty taken for bold capital lettering):
Psalm 15:1-5
Lord, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill?
He whose WALK IS BLAMELESS
and WHO DOES WHAT IS RIGHTEOUS,
who SPEAKS TRUTH FROM HIS HEART
and has NO SLANDER ON HIS TONGUE
who DOES HIS NEIGHBOR NO WRONG
and CASTS NO SLUR ON HIS FELLOWMAN,
who DESPISES A VILE MAN
but HONORS THOSE WHO FEAR THE LORD,
who KEEPS HIS OATH EVEN WHEN IT HURTS,
who LENDS MONEY WITHOUT USURY
and DOES NOT ACCEPT A BRIBE AGAINST THE INNOCENT.
He who does these things will never be shaken.
Keep walking blamelessly in all the above and you will never be shaken.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Two Words
Yesterday I wrote about inspirational quotes. Today I am going to write about another one. One that is quite profound; one that speaks and teaches us volumes.
"Jesus wept".
It doesn't get any great applaud at first. It seems so simple. Until one stops and thinks.
Jesus was so relational. Do we truly understand how relational and personal he is? As he entered the town where his friend Lazarus had been laid to rest I would think that every step taken brought the remembrance of a memory. There is something about death that always causes us to ponder life.
A town filled with people that were mourning; they were hurting deeply. Because of their relationship with Lazarus, they all had a common bond. Jesus was greeted with the sound of sadness. With great love and compassion, he joined right in.
Jesus has a way of joining in our pain. When we hurt, he feels our hurt. When we are troubled, he feels our trouble. Because of his great love for us, I don't think there is one emotion we experience that he doesn't understand or experience as well.
He understands anger. He understands joy. He understands sorrow. He understands rejection.
With Jesus as our model, and being we are made in the same image as he, then we also have the ability to connect with other peoples emotions.
True relationships connect with each others emotions. They feel each others pain. They laugh together and they cry together. Compassion moves the heart of God.
When Jesus wept, a miracle happened.
"Jesus wept".
It doesn't get any great applaud at first. It seems so simple. Until one stops and thinks.
Jesus was so relational. Do we truly understand how relational and personal he is? As he entered the town where his friend Lazarus had been laid to rest I would think that every step taken brought the remembrance of a memory. There is something about death that always causes us to ponder life.
A town filled with people that were mourning; they were hurting deeply. Because of their relationship with Lazarus, they all had a common bond. Jesus was greeted with the sound of sadness. With great love and compassion, he joined right in.
Jesus has a way of joining in our pain. When we hurt, he feels our hurt. When we are troubled, he feels our trouble. Because of his great love for us, I don't think there is one emotion we experience that he doesn't understand or experience as well.
He understands anger. He understands joy. He understands sorrow. He understands rejection.
With Jesus as our model, and being we are made in the same image as he, then we also have the ability to connect with other peoples emotions.
True relationships connect with each others emotions. They feel each others pain. They laugh together and they cry together. Compassion moves the heart of God.
When Jesus wept, a miracle happened.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Quotes of Inspiration
We hear them and read them all the time. Sometimes they go in one ear and out the other so fast that we don't take time to reflect their impact.
The greatest quotes are stated by the author of pen or voice when they don't even know it. Inspirations spoken with great brilliance through people not always known by man but known by God.
I heard someone in prayer on a cd that said, "No matter how hard my day gets, it is nothing in comparison to what a day without God is like".
Another recent statement inspired me and caused me to stand in awe of God and in awe of the fact that God has given me a friend who is so profound and so determined to walk in a way that pleases God. I cannot imagine the painful steps one has walked on their worn out path that leads to triumph. But this I know, that not only how they walk but how they talk, has forever made an impact on my life.
I leave you with this quote that has challenged my attitude to obtain a higher place.
"I am just one day closer to eternity."
The greatest quotes are stated by the author of pen or voice when they don't even know it. Inspirations spoken with great brilliance through people not always known by man but known by God.
I heard someone in prayer on a cd that said, "No matter how hard my day gets, it is nothing in comparison to what a day without God is like".
Another recent statement inspired me and caused me to stand in awe of God and in awe of the fact that God has given me a friend who is so profound and so determined to walk in a way that pleases God. I cannot imagine the painful steps one has walked on their worn out path that leads to triumph. But this I know, that not only how they walk but how they talk, has forever made an impact on my life.
I leave you with this quote that has challenged my attitude to obtain a higher place.
"I am just one day closer to eternity."
Friday, January 30, 2009
Always Need More
There is something that I am always in need more of. Most times I may even be unaware of how great the need is. Then something arises and causes me to seek; to listen; to apply. What I need more of is wisdom.
Prov 2:1-8 offers much to be gleaned from as it says, "My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He holds victory in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones.
To get more wisdom, simply (HaHa!) apply these lessons:
1.) accept his words
2.) store up his commands within you
3.) turn your ear to wisdom
4.) apply your heart to understanding
Now to REALLY understand the fear of the Lord and to find the knowledge of God, then you must get desperate enough to:
1.) call out for insight
2.) cry aloud for understanding
3.) look for it as silver
4.) search for it as hidden treasure
To get more causes us to undergo an inward work and discipline. To understand more causes an outward expression to be extended. Faith along with action must be applied.
Never stop searching for you will always need more!
Prov 2:1-8 offers much to be gleaned from as it says, "My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He holds victory in store for the upright, he is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, for he guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones.
To get more wisdom, simply (HaHa!) apply these lessons:
1.) accept his words
2.) store up his commands within you
3.) turn your ear to wisdom
4.) apply your heart to understanding
Now to REALLY understand the fear of the Lord and to find the knowledge of God, then you must get desperate enough to:
1.) call out for insight
2.) cry aloud for understanding
3.) look for it as silver
4.) search for it as hidden treasure
To get more causes us to undergo an inward work and discipline. To understand more causes an outward expression to be extended. Faith along with action must be applied.
Never stop searching for you will always need more!
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Playing Tag
Oh, how often we give out the counsel we so need to receive! Someone actually reminded me of that in an e-mail I read this morning as they entered me into a little game of Tag. I gave them counsel and they turned it right around and "tagged" me with it! I guess if I am going to give it to someone else that I better set a good example and walk it out myself! God speaks and a friend confirms. He is so good!
Today I am going to do something I have counseled others to do on numerous occasions but have I applied it to myself.............probably NEVER!
I am going to take a day and "REST". Yes I am! I have it all planned out. I am going to climb back into bed with a great Bob Sorge book and a nice hot cup of tea. I am going to read 2-3 pages and close my eyes for some possible meditation and some probable sleep. I am going to keep myself away from all dirty dishes as well as the dirty clothes. I am fleeing the endless work that always seems to be in the file labeled "must get done". Tomorrow is another day - right?
A Sabbath day. One year; fifty two weeks; 365 days. I do believe there should be 52 Sabbath days. I am certain on a weekly maybe even yearly basis I break one of the ten commandments. How about you?
TAG...you're it! Don't you just LOVE this game!
Today I am going to do something I have counseled others to do on numerous occasions but have I applied it to myself.............probably NEVER!
I am going to take a day and "REST". Yes I am! I have it all planned out. I am going to climb back into bed with a great Bob Sorge book and a nice hot cup of tea. I am going to read 2-3 pages and close my eyes for some possible meditation and some probable sleep. I am going to keep myself away from all dirty dishes as well as the dirty clothes. I am fleeing the endless work that always seems to be in the file labeled "must get done". Tomorrow is another day - right?
A Sabbath day. One year; fifty two weeks; 365 days. I do believe there should be 52 Sabbath days. I am certain on a weekly maybe even yearly basis I break one of the ten commandments. How about you?
TAG...you're it! Don't you just LOVE this game!
Monday, January 26, 2009
Wake Up Time
I never liked morning time as I grew up and to be honest, I am not a morning person as an adult either. Two cups of coffee and a hot shower takes me two hours. Once the fuel is in the tank and the engine is started - I am ready to go!
My mother, after trying many different methods, finally found a way to get my sleepy little body out of bed. She used the "Irritation Method". This method consisted of her coming into my room where she rudely caused my window shade to "spring up" and she sing-song chimed, "It's wake up time"! Needless to say, I did not lovingly respond. Oh how she loved the morning!
In Luke 22 we see where Jesus applied the "Irritation Method" to wake up his disciples as well. He asked them to pray that they would not fall into temptation while he was off praying in the garden. He was not far off, he was just "a stones throw away". When he returned to the disciples he found them asleep, exhausted from sorrow. Again he spoke to them and reminded them (perhaps more sternly than the first time) to "Get up and pray so that you will not fall into temptation."
The truth is friends, that Jesus is never too far away. He has told us to pray without ceasing. Yet we have grown tired. It takes a lot of work and discipline to pray without ceasing. As you get tired it seems that you are not able to see the closeness of Jesus and that you are not aware of his nearness.
Temptations come in so easily. The more tired we get, the less likely to recognize the temptations that come in and try to gain our attention. Temptations that are subtle like watching tv, talking for long times on the phone, business at work, reading empty books. The list could go on and on.
Sometimes we wonder why it is that we are so tired. Could it be perhaps that we have fallen into temptations that have caused us to drift into sleep as we drift away from what Jesus has asked us to do? When our spirits fall asleep, we fall into temptations.
Jesus can raise the dead and Jesus can raise his "church" from slumber. The question is this: Will the church respond? Pray so that you will not fall into temptation!
My mother, after trying many different methods, finally found a way to get my sleepy little body out of bed. She used the "Irritation Method". This method consisted of her coming into my room where she rudely caused my window shade to "spring up" and she sing-song chimed, "It's wake up time"! Needless to say, I did not lovingly respond. Oh how she loved the morning!
In Luke 22 we see where Jesus applied the "Irritation Method" to wake up his disciples as well. He asked them to pray that they would not fall into temptation while he was off praying in the garden. He was not far off, he was just "a stones throw away". When he returned to the disciples he found them asleep, exhausted from sorrow. Again he spoke to them and reminded them (perhaps more sternly than the first time) to "Get up and pray so that you will not fall into temptation."
The truth is friends, that Jesus is never too far away. He has told us to pray without ceasing. Yet we have grown tired. It takes a lot of work and discipline to pray without ceasing. As you get tired it seems that you are not able to see the closeness of Jesus and that you are not aware of his nearness.
Temptations come in so easily. The more tired we get, the less likely to recognize the temptations that come in and try to gain our attention. Temptations that are subtle like watching tv, talking for long times on the phone, business at work, reading empty books. The list could go on and on.
Sometimes we wonder why it is that we are so tired. Could it be perhaps that we have fallen into temptations that have caused us to drift into sleep as we drift away from what Jesus has asked us to do? When our spirits fall asleep, we fall into temptations.
Jesus can raise the dead and Jesus can raise his "church" from slumber. The question is this: Will the church respond? Pray so that you will not fall into temptation!
Thursday, January 22, 2009
A New Wine Skin
The other day I wrote about what it means to "arise". Changing something that is old doesn't happen until you remove what is old and put on something new.
The "same old, same old" is not a good thing. The only thing that is to stay the same is the word of God. We are not to remain the same or even do things the same way. We are to be changed from glory to glory. An old wine skin was never meant to have new wine poured into it.
Perhaps have been wanting to experience a new level of intimacy in your prayer closet, a difference in your time of worship, or even a greater revelation of God's word. Do you ever experience boredom or sleepiness while trying to do any of the above? If I am bored or falling asleep in my worship or prayer time, is that really doing ANYTHING to touch God's heart?
BEFORE you pray, BEFORE you go to church, BEFORE you read the word, you must be determined to press in UNTIL you obtain what you desire! An attitude of determination will fuel the desire within you to awaken. It will stir up your spirit!
On Sunday's for example, come to church already prayed up. Come with an anticipation and excitement to see how God is going to manifest in our midst. Come prepared to allow God to work through you. Come prepared to shout "How great is our God"! On intercessory prayer night, try fasting and praying in the spirit ahead of time. Come sensitive to what the Holy Spirit has to say. Come determined to take prayer into a different level. Come ready to pray out loud. Come fired up!
Luke 5:37-38 says, "And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the new wine will burst the skins, the wine will run out and the wineskins will be ruined. No, new wine must be poured into new wineskins."
We need to do something different to break out of the old wine skin mentality. Are you ready to be a new wine skin?
The "same old, same old" is not a good thing. The only thing that is to stay the same is the word of God. We are not to remain the same or even do things the same way. We are to be changed from glory to glory. An old wine skin was never meant to have new wine poured into it.
Perhaps have been wanting to experience a new level of intimacy in your prayer closet, a difference in your time of worship, or even a greater revelation of God's word. Do you ever experience boredom or sleepiness while trying to do any of the above? If I am bored or falling asleep in my worship or prayer time, is that really doing ANYTHING to touch God's heart?
BEFORE you pray, BEFORE you go to church, BEFORE you read the word, you must be determined to press in UNTIL you obtain what you desire! An attitude of determination will fuel the desire within you to awaken. It will stir up your spirit!
On Sunday's for example, come to church already prayed up. Come with an anticipation and excitement to see how God is going to manifest in our midst. Come prepared to allow God to work through you. Come prepared to shout "How great is our God"! On intercessory prayer night, try fasting and praying in the spirit ahead of time. Come sensitive to what the Holy Spirit has to say. Come determined to take prayer into a different level. Come ready to pray out loud. Come fired up!
Luke 5:37-38 says, "And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the new wine will burst the skins, the wine will run out and the wineskins will be ruined. No, new wine must be poured into new wineskins."
We need to do something different to break out of the old wine skin mentality. Are you ready to be a new wine skin?
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Time to Arise
After the message was preached on Sunday, I encouraged others to start to look and think about things differently. If you truly want to change an action, then you need to apply another or different action in order to see the fruit of change.
A precious sister in the Lord shared with me recently that the Lord has been speaking the word "arise" to her. What a powerful word that is! Have you ever just stopped to think about what that word means and the potential impact it holds?
Webster's defines "arise" as 1. come into being or action, or 2. get up; move upward. The truth is that if you desire to see something change then you MUST apply action. A simple example we put into practice every day is that if you are sitting on the couch watching TV and you get hungry, then you must get up and go to the kitchen to get food to satisfy you.
This same principle needs to be applied to our spiritual walk as well. When fear creeps in, our faith needs to arise. When our enemies press in, we call upon God to arise. When we become discouraged and dismayed, we command our spirits to arise with hope and praise God. The list could go on.
What a positive effect it would be to our spirits if we applied this principle with increasing measure. What a negative response it would be to us if we never moved from the position we are presently in. No movement can be equated to no change and even has the ability to cause death. Being changed from glory to glory only happens when we choose to arise from the place we are. This can be physical, spiritual, as well as emotional (how you think).
We desire God to arise on our behalf to deliver us, fight for us, protect us, and heal us. It always seems we are pleading with God for one thing or another. We want and need him to respond to us. But have you given any thought as to God pleading with us to respond to him? He calls us to come closer, to come up. He wants us to arise; to obtain a higher level. He wants us to arise from complacency and get to work. He wants us to arise to a place of taking action.
There is so much more God has in store for us than we can even comprehend. Are you willing to arise? Are you willing to let God arise? Change is coming your way! It's time to arise!
A precious sister in the Lord shared with me recently that the Lord has been speaking the word "arise" to her. What a powerful word that is! Have you ever just stopped to think about what that word means and the potential impact it holds?
Webster's defines "arise" as 1. come into being or action, or 2. get up; move upward. The truth is that if you desire to see something change then you MUST apply action. A simple example we put into practice every day is that if you are sitting on the couch watching TV and you get hungry, then you must get up and go to the kitchen to get food to satisfy you.
This same principle needs to be applied to our spiritual walk as well. When fear creeps in, our faith needs to arise. When our enemies press in, we call upon God to arise. When we become discouraged and dismayed, we command our spirits to arise with hope and praise God. The list could go on.
What a positive effect it would be to our spirits if we applied this principle with increasing measure. What a negative response it would be to us if we never moved from the position we are presently in. No movement can be equated to no change and even has the ability to cause death. Being changed from glory to glory only happens when we choose to arise from the place we are. This can be physical, spiritual, as well as emotional (how you think).
We desire God to arise on our behalf to deliver us, fight for us, protect us, and heal us. It always seems we are pleading with God for one thing or another. We want and need him to respond to us. But have you given any thought as to God pleading with us to respond to him? He calls us to come closer, to come up. He wants us to arise; to obtain a higher level. He wants us to arise from complacency and get to work. He wants us to arise to a place of taking action.
There is so much more God has in store for us than we can even comprehend. Are you willing to arise? Are you willing to let God arise? Change is coming your way! It's time to arise!
Friday, January 16, 2009
Faith and Loyalty
I came across a quote in the book I am reading that I found to be rather challenging. One needs to take a look deep within. One needs to sit quiet and listen for the Holy Spirit to speak. One may need to seek greater understanding. One thing I know, is that this quote challenged me to ask myself of the same.
Please take this quote and spend some time pondering and soul searching. May you be both encouraged and challenged. May you keep standing in faith "no matter what".
"My faith is extended to God, but so is my loyalty." -Bob Sorge
Please take this quote and spend some time pondering and soul searching. May you be both encouraged and challenged. May you keep standing in faith "no matter what".
"My faith is extended to God, but so is my loyalty." -Bob Sorge
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Singing A New Song
Psalm 92:1-2 says, "It is good to praise the Lord and make music to your name, O Most High, to proclaim your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night."
I love to break down scripture and just meditate on it. Let it just seep into my being as the Holy Spirit speaks. All scripture is God breathed and beneficial!
Because I am inquisitive, I find myself asking God "why". Not because I am rebellious, but because I truly want to understand the benefits and to really get to know His heart in a greater way.
So why is it that it is good to praise the Lord? Simply put, because He is worthy. Praising God keeps him in the forefront of our minds and keeps Him in his rightful place. It also transitions us from looking within ourselves and causes us to place our focus on him. After all, it never is about us is it?
The psalmist says "Why are you downcast Oh my soul. Put your hope in God for I will yet praise Him". It doesn't matter what is going on that causes our spirits to be downcast. We can choose to praise God. We are to give thanks in ALL situations. We have to stop thinking we even have a choice and command our spirits to rise up in praise to the Most High. A spirit of praise will overcome a downcast spirit. So put on a garment of praise for the spirit of despair!
Singing of His love. Wow. When we start to sing about His love, we just become flooded and over taken by His truth. Singing of His love just puts you in a whole other place - it draws you into the sanctuary of his heart. Singing of His love just causes our adoration to rise. As we sing of His love, we become engulfed in His love. There's nothing like singing of His love in the morning to jump start the day!
And then the night comes and brings an end to the circumstances of the day. Another song arises; one of His faithfulness. It makes you think of bed time prayers doesn't it? As we lay our heads upon our pillows a song of faithfulness flows as we reflect on God's faithfulness throughout the day. Sometimes we lay in bed wrestling with the covers as we wrestle with stresses of life. How different our sleep would be if we would trust God with our issues and simply begin to praise Him for his faithfulness.
There is one other key word that proceeds love in the morning and faithfulness at night. It is the word "proclaim". When we proclaim, we speak forth what we know is true and what we believe by faith. We speak forth what we may not feel and may not see. Proclaiming moves us from the place of doubting to the place of believing.
Sing a new song to the Lord. One of love. One of faithfulness. It's good to praise the Lord!
I love to break down scripture and just meditate on it. Let it just seep into my being as the Holy Spirit speaks. All scripture is God breathed and beneficial!
Because I am inquisitive, I find myself asking God "why". Not because I am rebellious, but because I truly want to understand the benefits and to really get to know His heart in a greater way.
So why is it that it is good to praise the Lord? Simply put, because He is worthy. Praising God keeps him in the forefront of our minds and keeps Him in his rightful place. It also transitions us from looking within ourselves and causes us to place our focus on him. After all, it never is about us is it?
The psalmist says "Why are you downcast Oh my soul. Put your hope in God for I will yet praise Him". It doesn't matter what is going on that causes our spirits to be downcast. We can choose to praise God. We are to give thanks in ALL situations. We have to stop thinking we even have a choice and command our spirits to rise up in praise to the Most High. A spirit of praise will overcome a downcast spirit. So put on a garment of praise for the spirit of despair!
Singing of His love. Wow. When we start to sing about His love, we just become flooded and over taken by His truth. Singing of His love just puts you in a whole other place - it draws you into the sanctuary of his heart. Singing of His love just causes our adoration to rise. As we sing of His love, we become engulfed in His love. There's nothing like singing of His love in the morning to jump start the day!
And then the night comes and brings an end to the circumstances of the day. Another song arises; one of His faithfulness. It makes you think of bed time prayers doesn't it? As we lay our heads upon our pillows a song of faithfulness flows as we reflect on God's faithfulness throughout the day. Sometimes we lay in bed wrestling with the covers as we wrestle with stresses of life. How different our sleep would be if we would trust God with our issues and simply begin to praise Him for his faithfulness.
There is one other key word that proceeds love in the morning and faithfulness at night. It is the word "proclaim". When we proclaim, we speak forth what we know is true and what we believe by faith. We speak forth what we may not feel and may not see. Proclaiming moves us from the place of doubting to the place of believing.
Sing a new song to the Lord. One of love. One of faithfulness. It's good to praise the Lord!
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Hush Puppies in the Closet
Yesterday we hit on food, and today we are going after the clothes! God is challenging us to take a closer look at our emotional attachments.
Luke 12:22-23 says, Then Jesus said to his disciples, "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes."
There are days I throw my hands up in the air as the tears of pity stream down my eyes and words of complaint stream from my mouth. I am certain that I am not the only one that encounters bad hair days or days that "I have nothing to wear". Days that one stands in front of the closet emptying its contents one by one on the bed after trying them on to find that nothing looks good, doesn't fit right, makes you look fat, or is too out dated.
Do you ever give thought as to why we do that? Why is it that we get so wrapped up in worrying about what to wear? Does our outward appearance really grant an hours worth of closet searching and a box of Kleenex? I think Jesus is on to something here as he instructs us, his disciples, not to worry about what we will wear!
So much time is wasted at the malls while we search for just the right outfit that for today will satisfy our mirror image and make us feel good about ourselves or look good to someone else. And let's not neglect the perfect pair of shoes and accessories to match. Do closet floors lined with matching shoes really cause Jesus to scream out to all around that you are an anointed woman of God?
So much wasted money spent (or charged!) at the malls as we try to fit into not only the perfect dress size but sometimes into an image that doesn't even exist. We have been made in the image of Christ, yet we try to dress in the image of the world trying to gather the approval of those around us. Sometimes we try to hide our "must haves" and unnecessary"bargains" behind the dark dungeons of our closet doors. Try as you may to keep those Hush Puppies quiet, but the truth is that when you open the closet door, the light shines in. Everything hidden in darkness will be exposed by the light!
God wants to expose the areas that we have emotional attachments to "things" instead of him. "Things" can be idols, "things" can cause us to lose our focus and our need for Him. When we take care of meeting our own provision, we miss the blessing and ability to see God's faithful hand of provision. We need to trust that God will truly provide us with all that we have need of and that in Him we lack not one good thing! Walk in the image in which you have been created and you will look good and feel good all the time!
Luke 12:22-23 says, Then Jesus said to his disciples, "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes."
There are days I throw my hands up in the air as the tears of pity stream down my eyes and words of complaint stream from my mouth. I am certain that I am not the only one that encounters bad hair days or days that "I have nothing to wear". Days that one stands in front of the closet emptying its contents one by one on the bed after trying them on to find that nothing looks good, doesn't fit right, makes you look fat, or is too out dated.
Do you ever give thought as to why we do that? Why is it that we get so wrapped up in worrying about what to wear? Does our outward appearance really grant an hours worth of closet searching and a box of Kleenex? I think Jesus is on to something here as he instructs us, his disciples, not to worry about what we will wear!
So much time is wasted at the malls while we search for just the right outfit that for today will satisfy our mirror image and make us feel good about ourselves or look good to someone else. And let's not neglect the perfect pair of shoes and accessories to match. Do closet floors lined with matching shoes really cause Jesus to scream out to all around that you are an anointed woman of God?
So much wasted money spent (or charged!) at the malls as we try to fit into not only the perfect dress size but sometimes into an image that doesn't even exist. We have been made in the image of Christ, yet we try to dress in the image of the world trying to gather the approval of those around us. Sometimes we try to hide our "must haves" and unnecessary"bargains" behind the dark dungeons of our closet doors. Try as you may to keep those Hush Puppies quiet, but the truth is that when you open the closet door, the light shines in. Everything hidden in darkness will be exposed by the light!
God wants to expose the areas that we have emotional attachments to "things" instead of him. "Things" can be idols, "things" can cause us to lose our focus and our need for Him. When we take care of meeting our own provision, we miss the blessing and ability to see God's faithful hand of provision. We need to trust that God will truly provide us with all that we have need of and that in Him we lack not one good thing! Walk in the image in which you have been created and you will look good and feel good all the time!
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
A Bowl of Cherries?
Do you ever stop to think about different cliches? Little tid bits of words to ponder. Some are good, some not, but they are still food for thought. I got thinking this morning as to why one would equate life with a "bowl of cherries". Sayings can sometimes be seeming less but sayings usually speak volumes of lessons to us.
This morning I came across this saying in Luke 12 spoken directly by Jesus himself. He said, "Life is more than food..." Of course I had to stop right there, mid sentence, because I knew the Holy Spirit had something to speak to me.
Food is a basic need that each of us have. Food is what gives us the vitamins, minerals and calories we need each and everyday in order to survive. God provides what we are in need of.
Do we trust God to provide what we have need of or do we gather and hoard away afraid that the supply will run out? There is one thing to take advantage of a good sale and it is another to stock up an abundance that will grow old and perish.
Do we trust God with our emotional needs or do we allow food to be our source of comfort? How often we allow food to be what causes us comfort when we are stressed out and to bring us pleasure when we are hurting or depressed. Sometimes we even allow food to be our reward.
Do we trust God to be our greatest source of fellowship or do we depend on food to be what draws people into fellowship with us? Food and fellowship quite often go hand in hand. We can get so focused on what we are going to make or bring (will there be enough? how will it stay hot?) that we focus more on the food than on the reason God put on our heart to get together in the first place.
Food can be so satisfying. But it is not to take place of God satisfying you. David said in Psalm 63, "My soul will be satisfied as with the richest of foods...". God satisfies the soul, food satisfies the stomach. Sometimes we put food in our mouths trying to satisfy our souls, but the truth is, that that is a place reserved for God and only God will be able to satisfy that area.
The substance that satisfies the soul is the word of God. The word of God is our spiritual food. Psalm 119:103 says, "How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!" Honey is sweet, but sweeter yet is the word of God.
This posting is not meant to encourage us not to eat food, but to take an honest look perhaps as to the possible attachments that we have to food or that food has to us. Sometimes we live to eat instead of eating to live. "Life is more than food" was spoken to teach us not to worry, but to trust. Worry can cause emotional attachments to all kinds of "things", today, I am just using food as an example to make us take a closer look into places we can misplace our trust.
This morning I came across this saying in Luke 12 spoken directly by Jesus himself. He said, "Life is more than food..." Of course I had to stop right there, mid sentence, because I knew the Holy Spirit had something to speak to me.
Food is a basic need that each of us have. Food is what gives us the vitamins, minerals and calories we need each and everyday in order to survive. God provides what we are in need of.
Do we trust God to provide what we have need of or do we gather and hoard away afraid that the supply will run out? There is one thing to take advantage of a good sale and it is another to stock up an abundance that will grow old and perish.
Do we trust God with our emotional needs or do we allow food to be our source of comfort? How often we allow food to be what causes us comfort when we are stressed out and to bring us pleasure when we are hurting or depressed. Sometimes we even allow food to be our reward.
Do we trust God to be our greatest source of fellowship or do we depend on food to be what draws people into fellowship with us? Food and fellowship quite often go hand in hand. We can get so focused on what we are going to make or bring (will there be enough? how will it stay hot?) that we focus more on the food than on the reason God put on our heart to get together in the first place.
Food can be so satisfying. But it is not to take place of God satisfying you. David said in Psalm 63, "My soul will be satisfied as with the richest of foods...". God satisfies the soul, food satisfies the stomach. Sometimes we put food in our mouths trying to satisfy our souls, but the truth is, that that is a place reserved for God and only God will be able to satisfy that area.
The substance that satisfies the soul is the word of God. The word of God is our spiritual food. Psalm 119:103 says, "How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!" Honey is sweet, but sweeter yet is the word of God.
This posting is not meant to encourage us not to eat food, but to take an honest look perhaps as to the possible attachments that we have to food or that food has to us. Sometimes we live to eat instead of eating to live. "Life is more than food" was spoken to teach us not to worry, but to trust. Worry can cause emotional attachments to all kinds of "things", today, I am just using food as an example to make us take a closer look into places we can misplace our trust.
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