While I hadn't walked away from the Lord I've been reminded recently that I haven't been blogging about all that He has done in my life and His faithfulness. I'm on notice--I'm back and will be blogging again.....yay God!!
As the cool weather hit I thought of the bears that hibernate and birds that fly south for the winter. It is amazing to me how God takes care of every detail. I have found myself in hybernation mode. Life can quickly get away from you if you aren't careful.
Our God is a graceful God and meets us right where we are today. I'm thankful for the mercy and grace that is extended to me daily. As I 'wake' from my hibernation I'm seeking to know my Lord more deeply to become Spiritually Fat and starting a new fitness program to become Physically Fit.
Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:12-13 NIV
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Monday, August 22, 2011
DUBLEV - Do You Believe?
DUBLEV - that's my license plate. I've had it for years. It is intended to mean "Do you believe?" It's been a neat way to share Christ with people over the years . Although, one time I had someone think it was for Cher's song "Do You Believe In Love?" No, I'm not a Cher worshipper--I'm a Jesus Christ worshipper. When asking someone, 'do you believe in Christ?' I have found that many say they believe in Christ. What I find disconcerting is that although many believe in Christ they choose not to have a relationship with Him or live as though they do.
Christ's sacrifice alone should compel us to live life holy and set apart. What an incredible sacrifice and gift we received and yet we do not live a life that reflects this wonderful gift. It perplexes me how a holy God can go through such great lengths to make a way for us to be restored to a relationship with Him by sacrificing His one and only Son and we still respond very filpantly. It saddens me because I'm just as guilty.
God knew our sinful hearts and bent toward selfish ambition and still chose to go through with His plan of salvation (thank you Lord).
In Deteronomy 6:5 it says, Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. He wants us to love Him with everything in us. He created us to love Him and to worship Him. In Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; When we choose to trust Him and be certain that we are on the right path. Proverbs 3:6 in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
Through Jesus Christ God has given us everything that we need to live out our life here on earth. 2 Peter 1:3 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.
Do you believe? Are you living like you believe?
Christ's sacrifice alone should compel us to live life holy and set apart. What an incredible sacrifice and gift we received and yet we do not live a life that reflects this wonderful gift. It perplexes me how a holy God can go through such great lengths to make a way for us to be restored to a relationship with Him by sacrificing His one and only Son and we still respond very filpantly. It saddens me because I'm just as guilty.
God knew our sinful hearts and bent toward selfish ambition and still chose to go through with His plan of salvation (thank you Lord).
In Deteronomy 6:5 it says, Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. He wants us to love Him with everything in us. He created us to love Him and to worship Him. In Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; When we choose to trust Him and be certain that we are on the right path. Proverbs 3:6 in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
Through Jesus Christ God has given us everything that we need to live out our life here on earth. 2 Peter 1:3 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.
Do you believe? Are you living like you believe?
Complacent Faith
Hebrews 11:1 describes faith: Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Hebrews 11 is often described as the 'Hall of Fame' that tells of many of the patriarchs who took God at His Word. Hebrews 11:3 says, By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.
I put my faith in Jesus Christ when I was eleven years old. Romans 10:17 says, Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.
I believed that He was the Son of God (John 20:31), was born of a virgin (Matthew 1:22), died on the cross for my sins (John 19:33) and rose again on the third day (John 20:17) having victory over death. (1 Corinthians 15:55)
Having faith means putting your trust in God. Trusting God involves obeying Him even when it doesn't make sense. He knows what is best for us and has a plan for our lives. Jeremiah 29:11 says, For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. As we grow up we sometimes get too big for our own britches and make decisions that are not best for us. As a follower of Jesus Christ I have the luxury (yes, luxury) of having the Holy Spirit living within me to guide me. All too often I become complacent in my relationship with God and my faith wanes. Complacent is defined as: marked by self-satisfaction especially when accompanied by unawareness of actual dangers or deficiencies.
My faith becomes complacent when I choose not to obey God. Isaiah 32:9 warns, You women who are so complacent, rise up and listen to me; you daughters who feel secure, hear what I have to say! We need to always be willing to listen when God speaks as well as those that He sends to us to speak truth (friends, family, etc.)
One way to avoid complacent faith is to obey immediately when God calls.
I put my faith in Jesus Christ when I was eleven years old. Romans 10:17 says, Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.
I believed that He was the Son of God (John 20:31), was born of a virgin (Matthew 1:22), died on the cross for my sins (John 19:33) and rose again on the third day (John 20:17) having victory over death. (1 Corinthians 15:55)
Having faith means putting your trust in God. Trusting God involves obeying Him even when it doesn't make sense. He knows what is best for us and has a plan for our lives. Jeremiah 29:11 says, For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. As we grow up we sometimes get too big for our own britches and make decisions that are not best for us. As a follower of Jesus Christ I have the luxury (yes, luxury) of having the Holy Spirit living within me to guide me. All too often I become complacent in my relationship with God and my faith wanes. Complacent is defined as: marked by self-satisfaction especially when accompanied by unawareness of actual dangers or deficiencies.
My faith becomes complacent when I choose not to obey God. Isaiah 32:9 warns, You women who are so complacent, rise up and listen to me; you daughters who feel secure, hear what I have to say! We need to always be willing to listen when God speaks as well as those that He sends to us to speak truth (friends, family, etc.)
One way to avoid complacent faith is to obey immediately when God calls.
Divided Heart
You hear the famous quote "Follow your heart" from Napolean Dynomite. We all follow after something. We choose what it will be filled with--cars, homes, stuff, people but it gets filled. The difference is what you choose to fill it with. There is only one thing than can fill it and keep you satisfied--God and only God--everything else will keep you unfulfilled. God created us with an inner desire for Him. Our heart becomes divided when we choose other things over God. Ezekiel 11:19 says, I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them; I will remove from them their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh.
You will remain unfulfilled if you choose to give God half-hearted worship. Any area of your life that is closed off to people is closed off to God. I had closed off certain areas of my heart to 'protect' me over the years and continued to worship God but could not fully worship Him wholly. As God has restored me I have found that He has enlarged my heart and worship has taken on a whole new meaning for me. As a result, I now find myself overwhelmed with emotion as I've given Him my heart fully.
Ezekiel 36:26 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. I can truly say that I have a new heart and a new spirit within me. I don't have to tell anyone--they can see it in my actions, my smile, my demeanor.
Allow God to do heart surgery on you--His transplants are always successful and well worth it!
You will remain unfulfilled if you choose to give God half-hearted worship. Any area of your life that is closed off to people is closed off to God. I had closed off certain areas of my heart to 'protect' me over the years and continued to worship God but could not fully worship Him wholly. As God has restored me I have found that He has enlarged my heart and worship has taken on a whole new meaning for me. As a result, I now find myself overwhelmed with emotion as I've given Him my heart fully.
Ezekiel 36:26 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. I can truly say that I have a new heart and a new spirit within me. I don't have to tell anyone--they can see it in my actions, my smile, my demeanor.
Allow God to do heart surgery on you--His transplants are always successful and well worth it!
Friday, August 19, 2011
Joy
Joy is defined as the emotion of great delight or happiness caused by something exceptionally good or satisfying; keen pleasure; elation. And the expression or display of glad feeling.
I read somewhere recently that joy is not merely happiness but rather an unshakable confidence that God is in control. Wow! I love that. Do I believe it? Yes! Do you? Do I live it? Not always. One of my favorite chapters in the Bible is Psalm 51. Psalm 51:12 says, "Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and grant me a willing spirit. I find that I need my joy restored often and I meditate on 'grant me a willing spirit'.
So often I find myself not doing the things that I truly want to and doing the very things that I don't want to do. Paul said it best in Galatians 5:17 For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. Essentially because of my sinful nature I need God's help to have a willing spirit. I cannot do anything good in my own strength. Philippians 4:13 says, "I can do everything through him(Christ) who gives me strength."
Knowing the source of where your joy comes from is a start. John 15:11 says "I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete." and John 16:24 says, "Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete." Joy is ours!
If we find our happiness in our possessions, status, bank account, etc. we will find our joy is like a roller coaster--up and down. However, when our joy comes from Christ it is constant and consistent no matter what the circumstances.
I learned Philippians 4:8 as a young girl but did not recognize the significance of the verse until recently. 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. If I am meditating on these things I am certain I will be filled with unshakable joy.
May your joy be complete and unshakable in Christ Jesus.
I read somewhere recently that joy is not merely happiness but rather an unshakable confidence that God is in control. Wow! I love that. Do I believe it? Yes! Do you? Do I live it? Not always. One of my favorite chapters in the Bible is Psalm 51. Psalm 51:12 says, "Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and grant me a willing spirit. I find that I need my joy restored often and I meditate on 'grant me a willing spirit'.
So often I find myself not doing the things that I truly want to and doing the very things that I don't want to do. Paul said it best in Galatians 5:17 For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. Essentially because of my sinful nature I need God's help to have a willing spirit. I cannot do anything good in my own strength. Philippians 4:13 says, "I can do everything through him(Christ) who gives me strength."
Knowing the source of where your joy comes from is a start. John 15:11 says "I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete." and John 16:24 says, "Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete." Joy is ours!
If we find our happiness in our possessions, status, bank account, etc. we will find our joy is like a roller coaster--up and down. However, when our joy comes from Christ it is constant and consistent no matter what the circumstances.
I learned Philippians 4:8 as a young girl but did not recognize the significance of the verse until recently. 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. If I am meditating on these things I am certain I will be filled with unshakable joy.
May your joy be complete and unshakable in Christ Jesus.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Prodigal Returns
dictionary.com defines prodigal as: Spending money or resources freely and recklessly; wastefully extravagant. A person who spends money in a recklessly extravagant way.
There is a story (parable) in the gospel of Luke 15 about a prodigal son. The parable tells of a father with two sons. The younger son asked for his share of the inheritance. The father gave him the share of inheritance and the son went away with his wealth. He squandered his money and became destitute--as far as desiring the scraps of pigs. He realized his father's servants were well fed and a better state than he. He decided to go to his father and seek to become a servant as he felt unworthy to be called son. As he returned his father saw him from a distance and went to him. The father threw a big party and celebrated the sons return.
This parable came to mind as my daughter has returned home. I'm grateful for her to be home and received her with open arms. Her story is a bit different than the prodigal son's but there was also similarity. It seemed more appealing at the time to live in another city with her father. The reality was much different. As I thought about this it occurred to me that we are all live the prodigal son and my daughter. We all desire what we 'think' is the better option when in reality God knows what is best for us. 1 Samuel 15:22 says But Samuel replied: “Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams. God desires our obedience...He demands it. Jeremiah 7:23 says "but I gave them this command: Obey me, and I will be your God and you will be my people. Walk in all the ways I command you, that it may go well with you."
As a fallen woman (man) we all stumble at times. Praise God we have a loving Father that will receive us when we come to our senses and repent. God receives us with open arms and celebrates our return. Deuteronomy 4:29-31 tells us But if from there you seek the Lord your God, you will find him if you look for him with all your heart and with all your soul. When you are in distress and all these things have happened to you, then in later days you will return to the Lord your God and obey him. For the Lord your God is a merciful God; he will not abandon or destroy you or forget the covenant with your forefathers, which he confirmed to them by oath.
Whether you find yourself as the father or the prodigal today remember to seek God first. Matthew 6:33 says But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. and Matthew 7:6-8 “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.
My heavenly Father is ready to receive you and through a party in celebration of your return!
There is a story (parable) in the gospel of Luke 15 about a prodigal son. The parable tells of a father with two sons. The younger son asked for his share of the inheritance. The father gave him the share of inheritance and the son went away with his wealth. He squandered his money and became destitute--as far as desiring the scraps of pigs. He realized his father's servants were well fed and a better state than he. He decided to go to his father and seek to become a servant as he felt unworthy to be called son. As he returned his father saw him from a distance and went to him. The father threw a big party and celebrated the sons return.
This parable came to mind as my daughter has returned home. I'm grateful for her to be home and received her with open arms. Her story is a bit different than the prodigal son's but there was also similarity. It seemed more appealing at the time to live in another city with her father. The reality was much different. As I thought about this it occurred to me that we are all live the prodigal son and my daughter. We all desire what we 'think' is the better option when in reality God knows what is best for us. 1 Samuel 15:22 says But Samuel replied: “Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams. God desires our obedience...He demands it. Jeremiah 7:23 says "but I gave them this command: Obey me, and I will be your God and you will be my people. Walk in all the ways I command you, that it may go well with you."
As a fallen woman (man) we all stumble at times. Praise God we have a loving Father that will receive us when we come to our senses and repent. God receives us with open arms and celebrates our return. Deuteronomy 4:29-31 tells us But if from there you seek the Lord your God, you will find him if you look for him with all your heart and with all your soul. When you are in distress and all these things have happened to you, then in later days you will return to the Lord your God and obey him. For the Lord your God is a merciful God; he will not abandon or destroy you or forget the covenant with your forefathers, which he confirmed to them by oath.
Whether you find yourself as the father or the prodigal today remember to seek God first. Matthew 6:33 says But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. and Matthew 7:6-8 “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.
My heavenly Father is ready to receive you and through a party in celebration of your return!
Friday, August 12, 2011
Joining the Battle
Have you ever thought about the difference between a battle and war? A war is a series of battles. A battle is an encounter with opposing forces. Both terms describe hostile military forces engaging one another. Now think about yourself--body, soul and spirit. Our body (physical) will perish one day. Our soul is dead without Christ Jesus. When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your sinful nature, God made you alive with Christ. Colossians 2:13 Our spirit--Christ Jesus gives us life in the spirit. Romans 8:11 And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit, who lives in you. How amazing: our physical bodies will perish, our souls have been made alive in Christ and our spirit will live on with Christ.
Understanding body, soul and spirit let's get back to the battle vs. the war. At the moment you accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour the Holy Spirit comes to live inside of you. 1 Corinthians 6:19 says, "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;"
There is a famous quote "You may have one the battle, but not the war." The moment that Christ gave up His last breath and said, "It is finished" (John 19:30) we were given victory over death. 1 Corinthians 15:54 says, "When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.”
Although the war for our soul has already been won through the blood of Christ there are battles we must fight daily. We must be willing to engage in battle with the enemy. Paul describes it perfectly in Romans 7:15 I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. Although we now have the Holy Spirit dwelling within us we still have a sinful nature. This is where the battle begins--within each of us. Sometimes I feel completely defeated for not doing the things that I want to do. I must remember that victory is mine through Christ Jesus and I must persevere. Romans 5:3-5 says, Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
When we allow God to fight our battles for us we can be confident we will gain new strength. Isaiah 40:31 says, "but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." I have felt defeated, tired and weary over the last few months. It took me a while to see that I was trying to fight my battles in my own strength and not allowing God to fight them on my behalf. Join the battle for your soul today but make sure you go forward in the strength of God--not your own and claim victory in Jesus' name daily.
1 Thessalonians 5:23 says, May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Understanding body, soul and spirit let's get back to the battle vs. the war. At the moment you accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour the Holy Spirit comes to live inside of you. 1 Corinthians 6:19 says, "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;"
There is a famous quote "You may have one the battle, but not the war." The moment that Christ gave up His last breath and said, "It is finished" (John 19:30) we were given victory over death. 1 Corinthians 15:54 says, "When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.”
Although the war for our soul has already been won through the blood of Christ there are battles we must fight daily. We must be willing to engage in battle with the enemy. Paul describes it perfectly in Romans 7:15 I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. Although we now have the Holy Spirit dwelling within us we still have a sinful nature. This is where the battle begins--within each of us. Sometimes I feel completely defeated for not doing the things that I want to do. I must remember that victory is mine through Christ Jesus and I must persevere. Romans 5:3-5 says, Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
When we allow God to fight our battles for us we can be confident we will gain new strength. Isaiah 40:31 says, "but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." I have felt defeated, tired and weary over the last few months. It took me a while to see that I was trying to fight my battles in my own strength and not allowing God to fight them on my behalf. Join the battle for your soul today but make sure you go forward in the strength of God--not your own and claim victory in Jesus' name daily.
1 Thessalonians 5:23 says, May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Be Still And Know
Most people are familiar with the verse Psalm 46:10, Be still, and know that I am God; (but are not as familiar with the remainder of the verse) I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. I memorized this verse many years ago but God brought it to mind recently.
God used a colleague and an acquaintance to bring this verse to my attention. The verse came from both of them the same day. Has God ever done that to you? God has a knack for repeating messages when we don't get it the first time--He does this with me alot. I am so grateful that He knows me so well...and loves me so much to persist. As I meditated over this scripture and thought about being still it sounded simple enough but when I tried to 'be still' and quiet myself before the Lord I found very difficult. I learned something about myself that my friends, family and co-worker already knew--I'm a little ADD.
and know that I am God here again I meditate and begin reflecting on what I 'know' about God. Knowing God, relationally, requires time alone with God. Jeremiah 29:13 says You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I've known who God is most of my life but haven't known Him intimately. Intimacy requires an investment of time and commitment.
Psalm 37:5 Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this: In Proverbs 3:5-6 it says, Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
When I've truly been still before the Lord I've trusted Him with my life. I've learned that to be still I must seek Him first, commit to follow Him wherever He may lead me and trust Him to guide me.
God used a colleague and an acquaintance to bring this verse to my attention. The verse came from both of them the same day. Has God ever done that to you? God has a knack for repeating messages when we don't get it the first time--He does this with me alot. I am so grateful that He knows me so well...and loves me so much to persist. As I meditated over this scripture and thought about being still it sounded simple enough but when I tried to 'be still' and quiet myself before the Lord I found very difficult. I learned something about myself that my friends, family and co-worker already knew--I'm a little ADD.
and know that I am God here again I meditate and begin reflecting on what I 'know' about God. Knowing God, relationally, requires time alone with God. Jeremiah 29:13 says You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I've known who God is most of my life but haven't known Him intimately. Intimacy requires an investment of time and commitment.
Psalm 37:5 Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this: In Proverbs 3:5-6 it says, Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
When I've truly been still before the Lord I've trusted Him with my life. I've learned that to be still I must seek Him first, commit to follow Him wherever He may lead me and trust Him to guide me.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Carrying The Burden
In Galatians 6:2 it says, Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Many years ago a read a book that opened my eyes to this scripture. The author spoke of her friend who was going through a very difficult time. She very lovingly told her friend that she would take on a portion of the burden. What a tremendous act of love! To willingly take on the burden of another person personifies Christ.
I shared this with a friend several years ago and had taken on a portion of a burden she was carrying at the time. It had an impact on her and she has also chosen to carry the burdens of others. We talked about our burdens and carrying those of another and how we can easily be weighed down. While we are called to carry one another's burdens God does not intend for us to hold onto them. He does not call us to hold onto our own, and in the same way He does not intend for us to hold onto anothers.
When we carry one another's burdens we simply taken it on in order to carry it to the cross on behalf of another. Jesus tells us in Matthew 11:28 to “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Carrying burdens (our own or another persons) will wear us out. It is not a load that God intends for us to carry (long term). When we carry a burden for another we need to remember that Christ implores us to come to Him with them.
Proverbs 11:25 says, A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.God blesses those that choose to refresh others by carrying their burdens. I have a friend that has a tagline that reads, "May the blessing your receive today be the blessing that you need the most". We receive blessings daily. When we give new strength to another God strengthens us. As we pour into the lives of others by sharing Christ, God will continue to pour back into us.
2 Corinthians 9:12-13 says This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of God’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else.
I shared this with a friend several years ago and had taken on a portion of a burden she was carrying at the time. It had an impact on her and she has also chosen to carry the burdens of others. We talked about our burdens and carrying those of another and how we can easily be weighed down. While we are called to carry one another's burdens God does not intend for us to hold onto them. He does not call us to hold onto our own, and in the same way He does not intend for us to hold onto anothers.
When we carry one another's burdens we simply taken it on in order to carry it to the cross on behalf of another. Jesus tells us in Matthew 11:28 to “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Carrying burdens (our own or another persons) will wear us out. It is not a load that God intends for us to carry (long term). When we carry a burden for another we need to remember that Christ implores us to come to Him with them.
Proverbs 11:25 says, A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.God blesses those that choose to refresh others by carrying their burdens. I have a friend that has a tagline that reads, "May the blessing your receive today be the blessing that you need the most". We receive blessings daily. When we give new strength to another God strengthens us. As we pour into the lives of others by sharing Christ, God will continue to pour back into us.
2 Corinthians 9:12-13 says This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of God’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Training For Life
I set out earlier this year with two goals in mind when I began this blog. The first was to deepen my spiritual walk with God (becoming Spiritually Fat) and adapting a consistent healthier lifestyle by losing weight, eating right and running (Physically Fit). As you can see from the trailing posts and lack of fitness updates I've flown through half year unsuccessful. I truly intend and desire these things but have lacked the self-discipline to follow through. I don't know if you've struggled in this area but it gets to me at the deepest level. Paul said it in Romans 7:18 I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out.
Then I came across 2 Timothy 1:7 and it says For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. There it was--God has given me a spirit of self-discipline. The interesting thing is I've been trying to do this whole thing in my own strength--which will never work. A verse that has been the foundation of my life is Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. I've been missing a key step to making this successful--full reliance on God as my strength.
No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize. I Corinthians 9:27 In order to do this I must be willing to submit my entire self to God's authority and allow Him to direct every step I take. Similarly, as I take each step in obedience walking in His will for my life, the physical steps that I take will get me closer to my goal of running a 5k then a 1/2 marathon.
Paul wrote to the Corinthian church in 1 Corinthians 9:24, "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize." I don't think about it very often but this life we live now--it is a race. It is a race against time. We are given only so many days and I can tell you that I have personally wasted far too many. I do want the prize that Pauls speaks about in his letter.
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Hebrews 12:1 I must be willing to throw off (get rid of) anything that prevents me from moving forward in my walk with Christ and achieving my spiritual and physical goals. It means I have to take a long look in the mirror and be honest with myself. What is slowing me down? What entangles me? What keeps me from running the race? What about you?
Seek His kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33
Then I came across 2 Timothy 1:7 and it says For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. There it was--God has given me a spirit of self-discipline. The interesting thing is I've been trying to do this whole thing in my own strength--which will never work. A verse that has been the foundation of my life is Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. I've been missing a key step to making this successful--full reliance on God as my strength.
No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize. I Corinthians 9:27 In order to do this I must be willing to submit my entire self to God's authority and allow Him to direct every step I take. Similarly, as I take each step in obedience walking in His will for my life, the physical steps that I take will get me closer to my goal of running a 5k then a 1/2 marathon.
Paul wrote to the Corinthian church in 1 Corinthians 9:24, "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize." I don't think about it very often but this life we live now--it is a race. It is a race against time. We are given only so many days and I can tell you that I have personally wasted far too many. I do want the prize that Pauls speaks about in his letter.
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Hebrews 12:1 I must be willing to throw off (get rid of) anything that prevents me from moving forward in my walk with Christ and achieving my spiritual and physical goals. It means I have to take a long look in the mirror and be honest with myself. What is slowing me down? What entangles me? What keeps me from running the race? What about you?
Seek His kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Obedience
It astounds me how stubborn I can be sometimes. Seriously! I think you can be so blinded that you don't even realize you are being stubborn.
Obedience is defined as 1. Compliance with someone's wishes or orders or acknowledgment of their authority. 2. Submission to a law or rule. Obey is found over two hundred times in the New International Version (NIV) Bible. God commands us to obey Him. Throughout the Old Testament God commands us to obey Him and we will receive great reward. There are also many warnings if we do not obey.
Obedience is not difficult but for many (myself included) we make it difficult. We do not like submitting to anoher's authority. We are self-rulers. We do not want to submit (as though it implies weakness). On the contrary, it takes great strength to submit to authority--God first, family, government, etc. Leviticus 25:18 “‘Follow my decrees and be careful to obey my laws, and you will live safely in the land.
Walk in obedience--what does that really mean? Obedience is a moment by moment, step by step process. Joshua 23:6 says “Be very strong; be careful to obey all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses, without turning aside to the right or to the left. As we obey God will direct our steps. Psalms 27:11 says Teach me your way, O LORD; lead me in a straight path because of my oppressors.
As we walk in obedience we are strengthened by God. Jesus says in John 14:15 “If you love me, you will obey what I command. Obedience is an act of love. 1 John 4:19 says "We love because He first loved us." 1 John 2:5 But if anyone obeys his word, God’s love is truly made complete in him. This is how we know we are in him:
As you take each step remember to walk in obedience.
Obedience is defined as 1. Compliance with someone's wishes or orders or acknowledgment of their authority. 2. Submission to a law or rule. Obey is found over two hundred times in the New International Version (NIV) Bible. God commands us to obey Him. Throughout the Old Testament God commands us to obey Him and we will receive great reward. There are also many warnings if we do not obey.
Obedience is not difficult but for many (myself included) we make it difficult. We do not like submitting to anoher's authority. We are self-rulers. We do not want to submit (as though it implies weakness). On the contrary, it takes great strength to submit to authority--God first, family, government, etc. Leviticus 25:18 “‘Follow my decrees and be careful to obey my laws, and you will live safely in the land.
Walk in obedience--what does that really mean? Obedience is a moment by moment, step by step process. Joshua 23:6 says “Be very strong; be careful to obey all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses, without turning aside to the right or to the left. As we obey God will direct our steps. Psalms 27:11 says Teach me your way, O LORD; lead me in a straight path because of my oppressors.
As we walk in obedience we are strengthened by God. Jesus says in John 14:15 “If you love me, you will obey what I command. Obedience is an act of love. 1 John 4:19 says "We love because He first loved us." 1 John 2:5 But if anyone obeys his word, God’s love is truly made complete in him. This is how we know we are in him:
As you take each step remember to walk in obedience.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Are You Who You Want To Be?
This has been the tagline on my dear sweet friends email for a long time. My sweet friend Julie has a contagious smile. She has an incredible personality, loves the Lord and life. She has been an inspiration to me in so many ways. She has battled cancer fiercely for the past 10 months and went home to be with the Lord today.
I sit here full of sorrow and tears for the things that I will miss in my dear friend. I regret not spending more time with her these last several months, not talking as much, so many things. I serve and love my sovereign Lord and know that this was His plan to take her home to himself but oh how I struggle. I am grateful God allowed our paths to cross but deeply sorrowful because I will miss her. My heart aches for Regan. There are so many friends that have so many stories to tell him of his mother's wonderful and love and compassion for others. Her strength and resolve was incredible. She personified Proverbs 31:25 She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She lived life intentionally. I truly believe Julie was who she wanted to be....and who God wanted her to be. 2 Corinthians 5:7-9 says, Now it is God who has made us for this very purpose and has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come. Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. We live by faith, not by sight. We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. My precious friend, though she was young, fulfilled the purpose God had for her life which pleased Him and brought her home where she now rejoices. She is having her best party ever tonight....and she was a great party planner and hostess!
2 Timothy 4:8 says, Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing. Julie received her crown today; I can only imagine how many jewels were placed on it. Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate. Proverbs 31:31
Praise God sweet Jewels no longer suffers and is not in pain but oh how we mourn the loss of such an angel on earth. Heaven is singing praises to receive such an incredible woman today.
Continue to pray for her son Regan and the family. And remember, "Are you who you want to be?"--if you aren't make changes and start today. We are never promised a tomorrow. James 4:14 Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.
I sit here full of sorrow and tears for the things that I will miss in my dear friend. I regret not spending more time with her these last several months, not talking as much, so many things. I serve and love my sovereign Lord and know that this was His plan to take her home to himself but oh how I struggle. I am grateful God allowed our paths to cross but deeply sorrowful because I will miss her. My heart aches for Regan. There are so many friends that have so many stories to tell him of his mother's wonderful and love and compassion for others. Her strength and resolve was incredible. She personified Proverbs 31:25 She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She lived life intentionally. I truly believe Julie was who she wanted to be....and who God wanted her to be. 2 Corinthians 5:7-9 says, Now it is God who has made us for this very purpose and has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come. Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. We live by faith, not by sight. We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. My precious friend, though she was young, fulfilled the purpose God had for her life which pleased Him and brought her home where she now rejoices. She is having her best party ever tonight....and she was a great party planner and hostess!
2 Timothy 4:8 says, Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing. Julie received her crown today; I can only imagine how many jewels were placed on it. Give her the reward she has earned, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate. Proverbs 31:31
Praise God sweet Jewels no longer suffers and is not in pain but oh how we mourn the loss of such an angel on earth. Heaven is singing praises to receive such an incredible woman today.
Continue to pray for her son Regan and the family. And remember, "Are you who you want to be?"--if you aren't make changes and start today. We are never promised a tomorrow. James 4:14 Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
True Freedom
Today is a day filled with celebration--celebrating our independance and freedom. Everyone celebrates July 4th but sometimes I think people forget about the significance of this day. The founding fathers of our country were men who founded this country on God's authority. As a nation we have drifted so far from recognizing God's authority. Thousands of men (and women) have fought for our freedom. We often forget the sacrifices made for freedom. True freedom does not come without sacrifice.
Galatians 5:1 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. Through Christ's death on the cross we were freed from sin and restored in our relationship with God. Living in a free country we do not give much thought to slavery.
I put this in human terms because you are weak in your natural selves. Just as you used to offer the parts of your body in slavery to impurity and to ever-increasing wickedness, so now offer them in slavery to righteousness leading to holiness. When you were slaves to sin, you were free from the control of righteousness. What benefit did you reap at that time from the things you are now ashamed of? Those things result in death! But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:19-23
As we have been freed from sin through the blood of Jesus Christ and choose to walk in righteousness we become more like Christ.
May you not take your freedom in this country or in Christ for granted.
Galatians 5:1 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. Through Christ's death on the cross we were freed from sin and restored in our relationship with God. Living in a free country we do not give much thought to slavery.
I put this in human terms because you are weak in your natural selves. Just as you used to offer the parts of your body in slavery to impurity and to ever-increasing wickedness, so now offer them in slavery to righteousness leading to holiness. When you were slaves to sin, you were free from the control of righteousness. What benefit did you reap at that time from the things you are now ashamed of? Those things result in death! But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:19-23
As we have been freed from sin through the blood of Jesus Christ and choose to walk in righteousness we become more like Christ.
May you not take your freedom in this country or in Christ for granted.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Blind Faith
I have always been mesmerized by Jesus' healing of the blind. Jesus healed many people with different diseases, demons, etc. and none were greater than any other but opening the eyes of the blind resonates with me. Each time, he healed a physical ailment but also a spiritual sickness. As I've grown in my walk with God I begin to understand we walk around blindly when we are not in fellowship with God.
In John 14:6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. Once we understand that Jesus is the ONLY way to God. As a child of God, I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. That began a journey of spiritual growth that will continue until I die or Jesus comes.
John 9:39 Jesus said, “For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind.”
2 Corinthians 5:7 says for we walk by faith, not by sight— In this world we can't rely on what we see.
We can be easily deceived by the satan's schemes. We must have faith in Jesus Christ to walk with us through this life and into eternity.
I have one illustration that I learned as a young child that just stuck with me. If you have ever been camping deep in the woods you know how pitch black it will get after sunset. In order to get around you must carry a flashlight or lantern. As you use the flashlight/latern it only lights the path directly in front of you. Our eyes only need to be focused on the area that encompasses the light; it will keep us safe and give us direction. For us, Jesus is that light. He will guide our every step and keep us safe but we must be willing to daily surrender to His authority not our own. Psalm 119:105 says, Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.
Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1
Proverbs 16:3 Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.
In John 14:6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. Once we understand that Jesus is the ONLY way to God. As a child of God, I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. That began a journey of spiritual growth that will continue until I die or Jesus comes.
John 9:39 Jesus said, “For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind.”
2 Corinthians 5:7 says for we walk by faith, not by sight— In this world we can't rely on what we see.
We can be easily deceived by the satan's schemes. We must have faith in Jesus Christ to walk with us through this life and into eternity.
I have one illustration that I learned as a young child that just stuck with me. If you have ever been camping deep in the woods you know how pitch black it will get after sunset. In order to get around you must carry a flashlight or lantern. As you use the flashlight/latern it only lights the path directly in front of you. Our eyes only need to be focused on the area that encompasses the light; it will keep us safe and give us direction. For us, Jesus is that light. He will guide our every step and keep us safe but we must be willing to daily surrender to His authority not our own. Psalm 119:105 says, Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.
Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1
Proverbs 16:3 Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Lonely But Not Alone
I have two best friends (one guy and one girl) who have both married over the past year and a half. While I'm overjoyed for them and the new season of life they have entered it left me in unfamiliar territory. I've been single a majority of my life but this past week I experienced something I don't recall experiencing before. I found myself lonely. It seems odd even now to think about it. I have lots of friends, co-workers, family and yet found myself feeling lonely. Mirriam-Webster defines lonely as: being without company, cut off from others, not frequented by human beings, sad from being alone. Even though I had been active this week I found myself sad from being alone. I had unknowingly cut myself off to others and as a result felt alone. This is the work of the enemy. He tries to isolate us by deceiving us with subtle lies. Mark 13:5 says Jesus said to them: “Watch out that no one deceives you.
What we must remember that while we may 'feel' lonely we are truly never alone if we indeed accepted Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. I must base my action on what I know--He loves me and He died on the cross for me. God created us to be relational people--connected to Him and to others. Eccelesiastes 4:12 says Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. When we are not connecting with others it gives the enemy an opportunity to wear us down and deceive us. 1 Peter 5:8 tells us Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.
While I did experience a bit of lonliness this week I knew with all confidence I was not alone. Deuteronomy 31:8 says The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” What comfort this is in the midst of 'feelings' of lonliness. I am now making more of an effort to reach out to my friends; to make that connection. These two life long best friends will always be part of my life but I need to connect and 'do life' with others that are in similar experiences as mine.
Next time you feel alone remember God is right there with you....and then call a friend.
What we must remember that while we may 'feel' lonely we are truly never alone if we indeed accepted Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. I must base my action on what I know--He loves me and He died on the cross for me. God created us to be relational people--connected to Him and to others. Eccelesiastes 4:12 says Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. When we are not connecting with others it gives the enemy an opportunity to wear us down and deceive us. 1 Peter 5:8 tells us Be of sober spirit, be on the alert. Your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.
While I did experience a bit of lonliness this week I knew with all confidence I was not alone. Deuteronomy 31:8 says The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” What comfort this is in the midst of 'feelings' of lonliness. I am now making more of an effort to reach out to my friends; to make that connection. These two life long best friends will always be part of my life but I need to connect and 'do life' with others that are in similar experiences as mine.
Next time you feel alone remember God is right there with you....and then call a friend.
Monday, May 30, 2011
Freedom & Sacrifice
Today marked a day that the nation has set up in 1971 to recognize those men and women who gave their lives in our nations service to protect the freedom that we enjoy today in our great nation. Memorial day was first observed on May 30, 1868 when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. Both sets of my grandparents are buried at the Veteran's cemetary in Houston. If you have never been to this cemetary I urge you to pay a visit--it is a cemetary but it is important to remember those who chose to give their lives for us.
These men and women paid a price for our freedom and comfort. Jesus Christ paid the ultimate price for our freedom. In Isaiah 61:1 it 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, Did you know that we are held captive to our sin without the blood of Jesus?
Living in the United States today we do not give much thought to slavery but there was a time when it was a real issue here. In 1962 the Emancipation Proclamation freed slaves however many were destitute so continued to work on plantations. As Christians, Christ freed us from our old sin nature according to 2 Corinthians 5:17, Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
Although we are a new creation in Christ Jesus we may choose to allow sin to weigh us down but Galatians 5:1 says It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. We must walk confidently in the knowledge that Christ made the sacrfice for our freedom and not allow satan to deceive us. Praise God each day for your freedom and the sacrifice that was made for you in Christ Jesus. Remember to thank those service men and women that you may come in contact with daily for the sacrifices they make to ensure your freedom.
Huge thank you to the men and women in the armed forces for your service and thank you to their families who make sacrifices daily with them away from home.
These men and women paid a price for our freedom and comfort. Jesus Christ paid the ultimate price for our freedom. In Isaiah 61:1 it 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, Did you know that we are held captive to our sin without the blood of Jesus?
Living in the United States today we do not give much thought to slavery but there was a time when it was a real issue here. In 1962 the Emancipation Proclamation freed slaves however many were destitute so continued to work on plantations. As Christians, Christ freed us from our old sin nature according to 2 Corinthians 5:17, Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
Although we are a new creation in Christ Jesus we may choose to allow sin to weigh us down but Galatians 5:1 says It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. We must walk confidently in the knowledge that Christ made the sacrfice for our freedom and not allow satan to deceive us. Praise God each day for your freedom and the sacrifice that was made for you in Christ Jesus. Remember to thank those service men and women that you may come in contact with daily for the sacrifices they make to ensure your freedom.
Huge thank you to the men and women in the armed forces for your service and thank you to their families who make sacrifices daily with them away from home.
Saturday, May 28, 2011
No Matter What
I'm going to serve you alone...no matter what. Have you ever read the book of Job? If not, it's in the Old Testament--I encourage you to read it. It's a great example of faith and perseverance. Job was a righteous man in God's eyes. He had many of those things that we seek after--family, possessions--by the world's standards he was well off too. It starts off with a conversation between God and satan. God speaks of Job's righteousness. Satan tells God that it is only because God has prospered the man and that if it were all taken away he would not be so righteous. God said ok and allowed satan to take away everything that God had but not harm the man himself. With all that he lost he did not curse God. Satan then says that if he were to harm Job then he would curse God. So God allows satan to inflict Job with horrible illness and he still does not curse God. No matter what happended to Job he did not curse God.
Job was indeed a righteous man. He cursed the day he was born but never cursed God. What an incredible display of servitude--of faithfulness to the Almighty God. It never says that Job did anything wrong to deserve what happened to him. We are tested in this life and will receive a crown of glory. James 1:3 says because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. And James 1:12 says Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
Life can be hard sometimes. Friends and family members with cancer; children are born with heart defects, loved ones are taken away from us far too soon; all of these are hard to understand but in all of these circumstances we must remember God is in control and will be with us no matter what. Psalm 71:20 says, Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter, you will restore my life again; from the depths of the earth you will again bring me up. We can always trust God to carry us through every difficult situation no matter what.
God gives us so many promises but he also warns us. Revelation 2:10 says Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.
Be sure of one thing, we KNOW that there will be pain and suffering in this life...BUT we have the joy and peace of knowing that this life is only temporary...but a blink of the eye and we will go on to receive the crown of life for eternity. In James 4:14 it says, Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. And Psalm 16:11, You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
We can be so consumed with our lives and forget God. I want to challenge you to be consumed with God first as you live out your life. At the end of this journey....don't you want to go to glory? All He asks is that you serve Him now no matter what.
Job was indeed a righteous man. He cursed the day he was born but never cursed God. What an incredible display of servitude--of faithfulness to the Almighty God. It never says that Job did anything wrong to deserve what happened to him. We are tested in this life and will receive a crown of glory. James 1:3 says because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. And James 1:12 says Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
Life can be hard sometimes. Friends and family members with cancer; children are born with heart defects, loved ones are taken away from us far too soon; all of these are hard to understand but in all of these circumstances we must remember God is in control and will be with us no matter what. Psalm 71:20 says, Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter, you will restore my life again; from the depths of the earth you will again bring me up. We can always trust God to carry us through every difficult situation no matter what.
God gives us so many promises but he also warns us. Revelation 2:10 says Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life.
Be sure of one thing, we KNOW that there will be pain and suffering in this life...BUT we have the joy and peace of knowing that this life is only temporary...but a blink of the eye and we will go on to receive the crown of life for eternity. In James 4:14 it says, Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. And Psalm 16:11, You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
We can be so consumed with our lives and forget God. I want to challenge you to be consumed with God first as you live out your life. At the end of this journey....don't you want to go to glory? All He asks is that you serve Him now no matter what.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Caller ID
Most of us use our cell phones as our main phone however if you have a home phone/land line you probably also have caller id. I remember a time when there was no caller id. When the phone rang, you answered. It was the neatest thing to be able to know who was calling before answering the phone. Now, it is used to determine whether we will speak to the person calling. We began choosing whether we would answer their call or let voicemail pick up.
So it is in our relationship with God. He is continually at work around us. Whether we are attentive to His voice and His call He goes about His work around us. He will call us to join Him at work; we must be ready to obey. We must be like Samuel in I Samuel 3:4 Then the LORD called Samuel. Samuel answered, “Here I am.”
Even in his hardship Job knew to answer God's call. If you aren't familiar with his story I encourage you to read it. Job 14:15 You will call and I will answer you; you will long for the creature your hands have made.
Now reverse it. When you call on God--in joy, in distress, in confusion, He is always there. He is waiting for us to call on Him. He will not interfere in our lives until we invite Him. Psalms is full of verses that we can cry out to God and He hears us. Psalm 138:3 When I called, you answered me; you made me bold and stouthearted. Psalm 120:1 I call on the LORD in my distress, and he answers me. Psalm 17:6 I call on you, O God, for you will answer me; give ear to me and hear my prayer.--you get the idea.
Next time your phone rings and you look to see who is calling--remember--God is calling you--will you answer His call? I know I will ;-)
So it is in our relationship with God. He is continually at work around us. Whether we are attentive to His voice and His call He goes about His work around us. He will call us to join Him at work; we must be ready to obey. We must be like Samuel in I Samuel 3:4 Then the LORD called Samuel. Samuel answered, “Here I am.”
Even in his hardship Job knew to answer God's call. If you aren't familiar with his story I encourage you to read it. Job 14:15 You will call and I will answer you; you will long for the creature your hands have made.
Now reverse it. When you call on God--in joy, in distress, in confusion, He is always there. He is waiting for us to call on Him. He will not interfere in our lives until we invite Him. Psalms is full of verses that we can cry out to God and He hears us. Psalm 138:3 When I called, you answered me; you made me bold and stouthearted. Psalm 120:1 I call on the LORD in my distress, and he answers me. Psalm 17:6 I call on you, O God, for you will answer me; give ear to me and hear my prayer.--you get the idea.
Next time your phone rings and you look to see who is calling--remember--God is calling you--will you answer His call? I know I will ;-)
Monday, May 23, 2011
Roller Coaster
There was a movie in the late 80's titled Parenthood with Steve Martin that had a quote about roller coasters that stuck with me. "Grandma" said "You know, when I was nineteen, Grandpa took me on a roller coaster. Up, down, up, down. Oh, what a ride! I always wanted to go again. You know, it was just so interesting to me that a ride could make me so frightened, so scared, so sick, so excited, and so thrilled all together! Some didn't like it. They went on the merry-go-round. That just goes around. Nothing. I like the roller coaster. You get more out of it."
In the movie this 'grandma' related the roller coaster ride to life. I'm sure that's why it stuck with me. It is interesting to me that life can be either like a 'roller coaster' or a 'merry-go-round'. I have never liked roller coasters--it made me frightened, sick, scared, excited all at the same time--it was overwhelming to me. As I've grown spiritually I have truly learned to appreciate and enjoy the ride. This past weekend I had many ups and downs all with God right beside me. Deuteronomy 31:6 says, Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
In Psalm 119:105 it says, your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. Whether I'm on the uphill part of the ride (which is exciting & thrilling) or downhill (frightening & scary) I know that God wil direct my steps if I stay focused on Him.
I am also reminded that as we have those 'spiritual high' moments at the top of the coaster that we will have moments of coming back down. I can only imagine how Moses must have felt on the mountain top speaking to God and then come back down to the rebellious Israelites.
I have also learned that when we are on those 'high mountain tops' in the presence of God that the enemy fully intends to divert our attention by throwing firey darts at us. Ephesians 6:16 says, In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. I Peter 5:8 says, Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
Ephesians 6:10-18 tells us how to combat the downward ride with its' frightening and fearful moments.
Praise God for the highs and the lows and remember that 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. 2 Peter 1:3
I'm going to ride the roller coaster and love it!
In the movie this 'grandma' related the roller coaster ride to life. I'm sure that's why it stuck with me. It is interesting to me that life can be either like a 'roller coaster' or a 'merry-go-round'. I have never liked roller coasters--it made me frightened, sick, scared, excited all at the same time--it was overwhelming to me. As I've grown spiritually I have truly learned to appreciate and enjoy the ride. This past weekend I had many ups and downs all with God right beside me. Deuteronomy 31:6 says, Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
In Psalm 119:105 it says, your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. Whether I'm on the uphill part of the ride (which is exciting & thrilling) or downhill (frightening & scary) I know that God wil direct my steps if I stay focused on Him.
I am also reminded that as we have those 'spiritual high' moments at the top of the coaster that we will have moments of coming back down. I can only imagine how Moses must have felt on the mountain top speaking to God and then come back down to the rebellious Israelites.
I have also learned that when we are on those 'high mountain tops' in the presence of God that the enemy fully intends to divert our attention by throwing firey darts at us. Ephesians 6:16 says, In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. I Peter 5:8 says, Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
Ephesians 6:10-18 tells us how to combat the downward ride with its' frightening and fearful moments.
Praise God for the highs and the lows and remember that 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. 2 Peter 1:3
I'm going to ride the roller coaster and love it!
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Overwhelmed
I've recently been overwhelmed...overtaken by emotion....by an experience where I was covered completely by God's grace. As I made the decision to make a radical change recently I never would have dreamed of the things I am experiencing. It blows my mind how perfectly God orchestrates everything in our lives. Hebrew 13:21 equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
God gave me a vision several years ago for a ministry. I've questioned recently whether it was still God's desire and whether it would come to fruition. To my amazement, He began responding almost immediately. When we pray God doesn't always respond right away. We are told in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 pray without ceasing. But God chose to respond right away to a recent prayer request.
Hebrews 12:2 says Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
We must keep our eyes fixed on Jesus; He will never steer is in the wrong direction and when we allow Him to take the lead.....we will be overwhelmed by His grace and His love.
God gave me a vision several years ago for a ministry. I've questioned recently whether it was still God's desire and whether it would come to fruition. To my amazement, He began responding almost immediately. When we pray God doesn't always respond right away. We are told in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 pray without ceasing. But God chose to respond right away to a recent prayer request.
Hebrews 12:2 says Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
We must keep our eyes fixed on Jesus; He will never steer is in the wrong direction and when we allow Him to take the lead.....we will be overwhelmed by His grace and His love.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Hide & Seek
When I was young my mother babysat for everyone (or at least it seemed that way). Our house typically had anywhere from 6-10 kids at any given time. We didn't have much money or many toys so we played hide and seek a lot. All kids love hide & seek. The smaller kids/toddlers begin a love for it with peek-a-boo. There is something about hiding that we all love--and it begins early in life. We play the same game with sin in our lives; with our friends, family, co-workers and even ourselves--hiding who we are. We live with an exterior fascade and hide the pain and hurt inside.
We also continually seek. There is a song that says "I still haven't found what I'm looking for" by U2. If you aren't familar with the song go to You Tube and look it up. God created us with a deep desire for Him and Him alone. We spend most of our lives filling it with our things....searching....even as a believer instead of allowing Him to fill that void. Matthew 6:33 "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." Christ came to give us abundant life (John 10:10) but we must be willing to seek Him out in our daily lives.
I have previously mentioned God having a plan for my life and a plan for your life--Jeremiah 29:11-13 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. That plan involves seeking Him first and willingly following Him wherever He leads you.
I'm so thankful I'm in a season of my life that no longer want to hide--merely seek. As God has taken me out of my comfort zone in many areas of my life I find that He is fullfilling a vision he gave me years ago. There was a scripture with a promise, Habakkuk 2:3 "For the vision is yet for the appointed time; It hastens toward the goal and it will not fail though it tarries, wait for it; for it will certainly come, it will not delay. Now that I have made an active choice to seek God first He is bringing about the vision in His perfect timing.
As someone share the verses in Jeremiah 29 today with me God brought to mind Joel 2:25, And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpiller, and the palmerworm, my great army which I sent among you. I was so excited. Joel 2:25 is a promise of restoration. I've clung to that promise for years and see now that He is restoring me day by day as I choose to seek Him.
There is a quote that I love (I'm not sure where it came from so can't give credit where it is due) "A woman's heart should be so lost(hidden) in Christ that a man must seek Him in order to find her." Colossians 3:3 For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God.
I saw a posting tonight on facebook --
What we are is God's gift to us; who we become is our gift to God. Become all that God created you to be - seeking Him first.
We also continually seek. There is a song that says "I still haven't found what I'm looking for" by U2. If you aren't familar with the song go to You Tube and look it up. God created us with a deep desire for Him and Him alone. We spend most of our lives filling it with our things....searching....even as a believer instead of allowing Him to fill that void. Matthew 6:33 "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." Christ came to give us abundant life (John 10:10) but we must be willing to seek Him out in our daily lives.
I have previously mentioned God having a plan for my life and a plan for your life--Jeremiah 29:11-13 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. That plan involves seeking Him first and willingly following Him wherever He leads you.
I'm so thankful I'm in a season of my life that no longer want to hide--merely seek. As God has taken me out of my comfort zone in many areas of my life I find that He is fullfilling a vision he gave me years ago. There was a scripture with a promise, Habakkuk 2:3 "For the vision is yet for the appointed time; It hastens toward the goal and it will not fail though it tarries, wait for it; for it will certainly come, it will not delay. Now that I have made an active choice to seek God first He is bringing about the vision in His perfect timing.
As someone share the verses in Jeremiah 29 today with me God brought to mind Joel 2:25, And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpiller, and the palmerworm, my great army which I sent among you. I was so excited. Joel 2:25 is a promise of restoration. I've clung to that promise for years and see now that He is restoring me day by day as I choose to seek Him.
There is a quote that I love (I'm not sure where it came from so can't give credit where it is due) "A woman's heart should be so lost(hidden) in Christ that a man must seek Him in order to find her." Colossians 3:3 For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God.
I saw a posting tonight on facebook --
What we are is God's gift to us; who we become is our gift to God. Become all that God created you to be - seeking Him first.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Saved By Grace - Already Forgiven
As a Christian you are probably familiar with Ephesians 2:8-9, For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. Whether you recently accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior or you did many years ago as a child we came to the same conclusion--we are sinners separated from God. We learned that grace is unmerited favor; Strong's defines it as the divine influence upon the heart, and its reflection in the life. And that only Jesus Christ can restore our relationship with God. John 14:6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
If I take this a step further, 2 Corinthians 5:7 says for we walk by faith, not by sight. As I accept Christ I can now walk by faith trusting in Him. I believe this to be true. I believe the bible is the inerrant word of God. I was challenged recently about whether I live out what I say I believe. I realized that I'm not actually living as if I believe that Christ died on the cross for my sins. Don't get me wrong, I know beyond a doubt that I asked Jesus Christ into my heart when I was 11 years old at Pineywood Baptist Encampment but rather had carried the weight of sin around my neck even though I was already forgiven.
Galatians 5:1 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. Here's the really cool thing that I learned--He's already forgiven me for ALL of my sins. This was done before I was even born! So why do I choose to keep carrying them around my neck?
As I am entering a season of my life that I am expecting radical change I have to be willing to throw off everything that is holding me back and weighing me down. Hebrews 12:1 says Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Interesting this verse keeps coming to mind. I truly desire to run (physically) but haven't made it a priority. The same is with our walk with God. We must make Him a priority--not as a chore, or to work off our sins, but to be in His presence and to know Him more. My race as Christian should be marked with the confidence that I walk (run) with forgiveness adorning my neck.
I will choose to walk in the knowledge of the grace and forgiveness that I have already received. Do you believe? Do you live it? Start today--lay it all down and start a fresh encounter with God.
If I take this a step further, 2 Corinthians 5:7 says for we walk by faith, not by sight. As I accept Christ I can now walk by faith trusting in Him. I believe this to be true. I believe the bible is the inerrant word of God. I was challenged recently about whether I live out what I say I believe. I realized that I'm not actually living as if I believe that Christ died on the cross for my sins. Don't get me wrong, I know beyond a doubt that I asked Jesus Christ into my heart when I was 11 years old at Pineywood Baptist Encampment but rather had carried the weight of sin around my neck even though I was already forgiven.
Galatians 5:1 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. Here's the really cool thing that I learned--He's already forgiven me for ALL of my sins. This was done before I was even born! So why do I choose to keep carrying them around my neck?
As I am entering a season of my life that I am expecting radical change I have to be willing to throw off everything that is holding me back and weighing me down. Hebrews 12:1 says Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Interesting this verse keeps coming to mind. I truly desire to run (physically) but haven't made it a priority. The same is with our walk with God. We must make Him a priority--not as a chore, or to work off our sins, but to be in His presence and to know Him more. My race as Christian should be marked with the confidence that I walk (run) with forgiveness adorning my neck.
I will choose to walk in the knowledge of the grace and forgiveness that I have already received. Do you believe? Do you live it? Start today--lay it all down and start a fresh encounter with God.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Radical Change
I've known for a while that I needed a change...a radical change I just wasn't sure what direction to head. While out yesterday a book caught my eye - 100 Days to Radical Change. The book is intended to help one transform their life through a closer relationship to God through Christ Jesus. I'm in! Day One - Put God First. My first thought is 'I do put God first' but in taking a closer look I don't read my bible daily, pray fervently or look for guidance from Him in all I do. I can't just say it--I have to live like I mean it.
I love how when God wants to get my attention He provides the message loud and clear through different avenues. As I mentioned, I knew I needed a radical change--I had written 'live a radical life' on my bathroom mirrior just days before (1). I found the book at Lifeway yesterday (2). Then today's sermon was on transformation (3). Specifically, he talked about the woman at the well (John 4). Her transformation was so obvious to everyone that they immediately went to find Christ. I don't know about you but I want that kind of transformation!
To round this out, I just finished a bible study about the Israelites journey to the promised land (4). At the edge of Canaan, the land God had promised to them, they decide to go investigate first. (Numbers 13 & 14). The decision had been made--God promised victory yet they chose to go 'check it out'. This showed a lack of trust in God. As a result only two of the original Israelites that were brought out of Egypt entered the Promised Land.
I can see myself doing the same thing as the Israelites in many areas of my life. Today, I had a conversation with one of my single friends. We were discussing being content in our singleness. I had indicated that I am quite content with my singleness. However, I talk about wanting a husband, try to figure out relationships, dabble in dating, etc. So if I keep talking about it, searching, etc. do I really trust God? Do I believe His Word? Matthew 10:30 says the hairs on my head are numbered, knit in mothers womb Psalm 139:13, Psalm 139:16 all the days for me are were written in your book before one of them came to be. I believe all of these verses so why would not God choose my husband and at His appointed time? I could same the same thing about work, my finances, parenting, etc.
Proverbs 3:5 is very clear, "Trust in the Lord with ALL your heart and lean not on your own understanding." If I'm thinking about a husband I'm also not worshipping God--my thoughts need to be focused on Him first. In Proverbs 3:6 it says "In ALL your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight." (emphasis mine)
I'm heading into unchartered territory seeking a radical change; the road is going to get narrow....stayed tuned....or better yet, join me! Matthew 7:13-14 “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it."
I love how when God wants to get my attention He provides the message loud and clear through different avenues. As I mentioned, I knew I needed a radical change--I had written 'live a radical life' on my bathroom mirrior just days before (1). I found the book at Lifeway yesterday (2). Then today's sermon was on transformation (3). Specifically, he talked about the woman at the well (John 4). Her transformation was so obvious to everyone that they immediately went to find Christ. I don't know about you but I want that kind of transformation!
To round this out, I just finished a bible study about the Israelites journey to the promised land (4). At the edge of Canaan, the land God had promised to them, they decide to go investigate first. (Numbers 13 & 14). The decision had been made--God promised victory yet they chose to go 'check it out'. This showed a lack of trust in God. As a result only two of the original Israelites that were brought out of Egypt entered the Promised Land.
I can see myself doing the same thing as the Israelites in many areas of my life. Today, I had a conversation with one of my single friends. We were discussing being content in our singleness. I had indicated that I am quite content with my singleness. However, I talk about wanting a husband, try to figure out relationships, dabble in dating, etc. So if I keep talking about it, searching, etc. do I really trust God? Do I believe His Word? Matthew 10:30 says the hairs on my head are numbered, knit in mothers womb Psalm 139:13, Psalm 139:16 all the days for me are were written in your book before one of them came to be. I believe all of these verses so why would not God choose my husband and at His appointed time? I could same the same thing about work, my finances, parenting, etc.
Proverbs 3:5 is very clear, "Trust in the Lord with ALL your heart and lean not on your own understanding." If I'm thinking about a husband I'm also not worshipping God--my thoughts need to be focused on Him first. In Proverbs 3:6 it says "In ALL your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight." (emphasis mine)
I'm heading into unchartered territory seeking a radical change; the road is going to get narrow....stayed tuned....or better yet, join me! Matthew 7:13-14 “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it."
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Life Happens
Over the course of the last two weeks I have not been posting daily. I had the material (in my head) but never got it composed and published. It began to frustrate me when one day became two, etc. There were several areas of my life that this was happening--house work, yard work, etc. I began to take inventory of my life to determine why all of these things were not getting done it became very clear to me that my schedule was overloaded. I have a full time job but also have other responsiblities; I sit on a committee, teach ladies bible study, 6th grade girls bible study, take dance lessons, missions, etc. All of a sudden I have every waking moment full--life happens --no wonder I'm tired. :-)
I love all of these things that I'm doing so it's important to assess whether they are the best things for me to do. I like how Jesus responds to Martha when she asks Jesus to tell her sister to help with preparations - Luke 10:41-42 “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
I had a Martha moment this past week. I had a friend and her family who had a plumbing issue and needed to come over to shower. I was honored and happy to be able to help them but was a bit embarrassed because my house was a wreck and I didn't have time to 'clean up' before they arrived. I have a habit of writing notes, scriptures and thoughts for my blog on the glass in my shower. I know it's odd but I do alot of thinking in the shower and have a very short memory so I write it down with dry erase markers on the shower door--it's my process. I'm single so no one would know right? I usually have a bible verse on the mirror as well. I had no time (and simply forgot) that someone else would be in my shower. My friend came downstairs after her shower and commented on my shower door. God's teaching me to laugh through these life experiences.
I find that when I plan and make preparations in advance the it does not seem to be so overwhelming. In order to plan properly we have to weigh everything we do against what God desires of us. Proverbs 16:3 Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. We need to plan our activities to ensure they line up with what God asks of us. - For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord,“plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11
Still looking for the maid fairy to take care of my house...don't think she'll be showing up. ;-) Put God's priorities for you first. May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed. Psalm 20:4
I love all of these things that I'm doing so it's important to assess whether they are the best things for me to do. I like how Jesus responds to Martha when she asks Jesus to tell her sister to help with preparations - Luke 10:41-42 “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
I had a Martha moment this past week. I had a friend and her family who had a plumbing issue and needed to come over to shower. I was honored and happy to be able to help them but was a bit embarrassed because my house was a wreck and I didn't have time to 'clean up' before they arrived. I have a habit of writing notes, scriptures and thoughts for my blog on the glass in my shower. I know it's odd but I do alot of thinking in the shower and have a very short memory so I write it down with dry erase markers on the shower door--it's my process. I'm single so no one would know right? I usually have a bible verse on the mirror as well. I had no time (and simply forgot) that someone else would be in my shower. My friend came downstairs after her shower and commented on my shower door. God's teaching me to laugh through these life experiences.
I find that when I plan and make preparations in advance the it does not seem to be so overwhelming. In order to plan properly we have to weigh everything we do against what God desires of us. Proverbs 16:3 Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. We need to plan our activities to ensure they line up with what God asks of us. - For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord,“plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11
Still looking for the maid fairy to take care of my house...don't think she'll be showing up. ;-) Put God's priorities for you first. May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed. Psalm 20:4
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Broken
Webster's defines Broken as: violated by transgression; violently separated into parts(shattered); cut off. It sounds negative, bad even but the reality is being broken draws us closer to a Holy God. Psalm 34:18 says, The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. It broke my heart to have my daughter move to her dad's house after raising her for sixteen years. It hurt; I still feel the pain but God has drawn me so much closer to Him. I've experienced His love and grace in ways that I could never imagine through this experience. He truly meets you right where you are. He met me in one of the deepest places of despair that I have been in and set my feet on level ground. Psalm 40:2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. I love Psalm 51. In Psalm 51:17 it says, "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise."
As God has given me this time of drawing near to Him He has called me to share with others what He has done. I am called to preach the good news, comfort others and bind up the broken hearted. Isaiah 61:1-3 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, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion— to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.
Our rebellious spirit needs to be broken so that we can be cleaned. We need to have the sin of pride, resentment, unforgiveness, envy, jealousy, etc. removed from our heart. In Ezekiel 36:25-26 it sasy I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. 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.
Is there something that God needs to break in you? I pray you will allow Him to break you, to build you back up into the man or woman of God that He designed for you to be.
As God has given me this time of drawing near to Him He has called me to share with others what He has done. I am called to preach the good news, comfort others and bind up the broken hearted. Isaiah 61:1-3 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, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion— to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.
Our rebellious spirit needs to be broken so that we can be cleaned. We need to have the sin of pride, resentment, unforgiveness, envy, jealousy, etc. removed from our heart. In Ezekiel 36:25-26 it sasy I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. 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.
Is there something that God needs to break in you? I pray you will allow Him to break you, to build you back up into the man or woman of God that He designed for you to be.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Motherhood - A Gift & Privledge
I hope all the mothers had a wonderful Mother's Day. My day was a little difficult at times. This was the first time since giving birth to my child over 17 years ago that I didn't spend it with her. I spent some time today lamenting my child who was not here on Mother's Day. Yet I found myself praising God that He allowed me the privledge of being a mother. A child is an incredible gift--the ability to give life to another--one of God's greatest gifts and blessings.
Proverbs 31:25-26 speaks of a wife and mother-- "She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue." v.28 Her children arise and call her blessed;
I found myself praising God for His goodness towards me throughout the day. He brought people along side me that blessed me tremendously. Two friends that I don't see or talk to very often offered encouragement in a special way. In I Thessalonians 5:11 it says, "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." Without realizing it today my two friends built me up earlier in the afternoon and this evening when I had a difficult time I was reminded of those two ministering angels.
As our heavenly Father brings others around to minister to us and pray for us. As a mother (parent) of children we need to continually pray for our children and help direct their steps. Sometimes we have to fight for our children--even when they don't want us to. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Satan would like to thwart our children from serving a Holy God. We must be willing to fight on their behalf. It may be difficult--painful at times but we must persevere.
Romans 3:5-7 Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
A friend shared a great poem with me this evening--
With trials
we grow stronger in faith;
With faith
we move closer to God;
With God
we can do all things.
This is a great poem and it strengtened my heart in many ways. My friend did not know it but that last line comes from my life verse. I say my life verse because anytime in my life that I've went through a difficult time that was the verse that God brought to mind and I leaned on. It's found in Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengtheneth me. - As you endure trials I pray you will grow in faith, move closer to God and do all things according to His will for your life.
Proverbs 31:25-26 speaks of a wife and mother-- "She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue." v.28 Her children arise and call her blessed;
I found myself praising God for His goodness towards me throughout the day. He brought people along side me that blessed me tremendously. Two friends that I don't see or talk to very often offered encouragement in a special way. In I Thessalonians 5:11 it says, "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." Without realizing it today my two friends built me up earlier in the afternoon and this evening when I had a difficult time I was reminded of those two ministering angels.
As our heavenly Father brings others around to minister to us and pray for us. As a mother (parent) of children we need to continually pray for our children and help direct their steps. Sometimes we have to fight for our children--even when they don't want us to. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Satan would like to thwart our children from serving a Holy God. We must be willing to fight on their behalf. It may be difficult--painful at times but we must persevere.
Romans 3:5-7 Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
A friend shared a great poem with me this evening--
With trials
we grow stronger in faith;
With faith
we move closer to God;
With God
we can do all things.
This is a great poem and it strengtened my heart in many ways. My friend did not know it but that last line comes from my life verse. I say my life verse because anytime in my life that I've went through a difficult time that was the verse that God brought to mind and I leaned on. It's found in Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengtheneth me. - As you endure trials I pray you will grow in faith, move closer to God and do all things according to His will for your life.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Follow--Don't Lead
I recently started taking dance lessons and I love it. It's great exercise and a lot of fun. The current lessons are on the Texas 2-step. While I've muddled my way around the dance floor in the past I wanted to really learn how to do it properly. The instructor (who is great by the way) said something tonight that completely threw me. He said (to the women) 'you are not to lead--move or take a step without the man taking the first....' He reminded the men that it was their job to lead. Wow! This hit me on so many different levels. He was talking about the dance but it was so much more. For me to do the 2-step properly I must willing follow my partner. They have you rotate out with partners so I had to adjust to a different man every so often.
I thought about relationships. I've been single all of my life with the exception of about 6 months. I've been a single parent for 17 years. I have been the leader in my home, in my church group, other commitments, and in projects at work. It is great to lead--at times we are called to lead but in order to lead appropriately you must be willing to follow first. When Jesus started His ministry He told the disciples, “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” Matthew 4:19
Jesus begin His ministry with a small group (12
). To each He gave the same call 'come follow me'. Luke 14:27 And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. We are to carry our cross first.
I thought about relationships. I've been single all of my life with the exception of about 6 months. I've been a single parent for 17 years. I have been the leader in my home, in my church group, other commitments, and in projects at work. It is great to lead--at times we are called to lead but in order to lead appropriately you must be willing to follow first. When Jesus started His ministry He told the disciples, “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” Matthew 4:19
Jesus begin His ministry with a small group (12
). To each He gave the same call 'come follow me'. Luke 14:27 And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. We are to carry our cross first.
Ebenezer - What Have You Done?
I stand in awe at the incredible work that God has done in my life over the years. I don't take nearly enough time to stop and reflect on it all but recently had the privledge and honor to spend time with a younger single mom and share some of God's work in my life as a single mom. Titus 2 came to mind -- "older women...teach young women....." Yikes! All of sudden I realize I'm the 'older' one. Praise God He is allowing me to pour out to others what He has poured into me over the years!
Have you taken inventory of your life? Are you where you thought you would be? Are you content? Have you seen God at work in your life? In I Samuel 7:12 it says, Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, "Thus far has the Lord helped us.” Samuel took a stone and named it Ebenezer. It stood as a memorial/reminder of all that God had done so far in the lives of the Israelites. He does the same for you and I today.
As I share my failures and successes it is really incredible to think that God takes even the failures and uses them for His good, In Romans 8:28, And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. All my successes have been because of Him. As I willingly acknowledge God's leading I can be sure that I'm on the right track. Proverbs 3:6 says In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.
Whether our past failures are by our own doing or by another's, God will ultimately use your life to bring glory to His name if you will let Him. An example of this is found in the story of Joseph and his brothers who sold him into slavery. Genesis 50:20 "As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive." God will use your entire life for His glory and His purposes.
Moses knew the importance of trusting God. In Exodus 33:15 Moses said to God, Then he said to Him, "If Your presence does not go with us, do not lead us up from here. What if we made that same choice--we will not go unless God leads us?
Do you know what God has done in your life? Do you have an Ebenezer? If not, I encourage you to collect a stone, put a date on it and place it where you can see it on a regular basis as a reminder of all that God has done, is doing and will do in your life.
Have you taken inventory of your life? Are you where you thought you would be? Are you content? Have you seen God at work in your life? In I Samuel 7:12 it says, Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, "Thus far has the Lord helped us.” Samuel took a stone and named it Ebenezer. It stood as a memorial/reminder of all that God had done so far in the lives of the Israelites. He does the same for you and I today.
As I share my failures and successes it is really incredible to think that God takes even the failures and uses them for His good, In Romans 8:28, And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. All my successes have been because of Him. As I willingly acknowledge God's leading I can be sure that I'm on the right track. Proverbs 3:6 says In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.
Whether our past failures are by our own doing or by another's, God will ultimately use your life to bring glory to His name if you will let Him. An example of this is found in the story of Joseph and his brothers who sold him into slavery. Genesis 50:20 "As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive." God will use your entire life for His glory and His purposes.
Moses knew the importance of trusting God. In Exodus 33:15 Moses said to God, Then he said to Him, "If Your presence does not go with us, do not lead us up from here. What if we made that same choice--we will not go unless God leads us?
Do you know what God has done in your life? Do you have an Ebenezer? If not, I encourage you to collect a stone, put a date on it and place it where you can see it on a regular basis as a reminder of all that God has done, is doing and will do in your life.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Wait....Expectantly
I've never been very good with intimate relationships. For several years I have had an interest in a man but denied it to myself and others because I wasn't willing to open myself up to anyone. As I have allowed God to tear down walls and heal old wounds I'm learning to open up. As my eyes were opened it became very obvious to me there was significant physical attraction (I'm sure I blushed when that revelation occurred) :-). Needless to say, all of a sudden I'm ready to get this thing started (so to speak).
Well, let's just say that it didn't get started, I'm impatient and he wasn't interested in me. In the past, I would have felt rejected and closed myself off again. Tonight, instead, I smiled and praised God that I He had done a work in me and my heart was full of joy. I have been redeemed and restored--my life is not measured by whether someone accepts or rejects me--God, the Creator of the universe has already accepted and loved me--and willingly allowed His Son to die on a cross for me. What's even more wonderful is I felt a desire to pray for this man that God would bless him in whatever he does in his life and give him his deepest desires. We are told in I Thessalonians 5:18 "give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."
I have to giggle at myself sometimes. Although I closed myself off for many years (at least a decade), all of a sudden I want things NOW, to fall into place in my timing. It has taken a long time for me to get here....41 years to be exact; but all by God's grace and mercy. As walls have come down, eyes opened and revelation from God, I am in awe of the work He is doing in me and through me. I'm learning to follow His leading and rest in His presence. My journey is getting quite fun. Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations. Psalm 46:10
As I took my dog out tonight in the backyard it was incredible. There was no traffic on nearby roads, the only thing I heard was the wind whipping through the trees and my windchime....God was there. In that quiet, still, moment His presence could be seen and felt as the wind tossed the limbs of the trees and whirled around. As I listened I was reminded of the tree planted by the stream in Psalm 1:3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers. Now that I know and my eyes are open I intend to follow God's leading and prosper--whatever that may look like.
Ephesians 5:14 says "For this reason it says, "Awake, sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you." I am awake and Christ is shining on me. :-) I am waiting expectantly to see what God has in store for me. Are you ready to take your journey with God?
As a side note I finally kicked into the physical side of this too--I'm back at the gym and have started taking dance classes.
Well, let's just say that it didn't get started, I'm impatient and he wasn't interested in me. In the past, I would have felt rejected and closed myself off again. Tonight, instead, I smiled and praised God that I He had done a work in me and my heart was full of joy. I have been redeemed and restored--my life is not measured by whether someone accepts or rejects me--God, the Creator of the universe has already accepted and loved me--and willingly allowed His Son to die on a cross for me. What's even more wonderful is I felt a desire to pray for this man that God would bless him in whatever he does in his life and give him his deepest desires. We are told in I Thessalonians 5:18 "give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."
I have to giggle at myself sometimes. Although I closed myself off for many years (at least a decade), all of a sudden I want things NOW, to fall into place in my timing. It has taken a long time for me to get here....41 years to be exact; but all by God's grace and mercy. As walls have come down, eyes opened and revelation from God, I am in awe of the work He is doing in me and through me. I'm learning to follow His leading and rest in His presence. My journey is getting quite fun. Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations. Psalm 46:10
As I took my dog out tonight in the backyard it was incredible. There was no traffic on nearby roads, the only thing I heard was the wind whipping through the trees and my windchime....God was there. In that quiet, still, moment His presence could be seen and felt as the wind tossed the limbs of the trees and whirled around. As I listened I was reminded of the tree planted by the stream in Psalm 1:3 He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers. Now that I know and my eyes are open I intend to follow God's leading and prosper--whatever that may look like.
Ephesians 5:14 says "For this reason it says, "Awake, sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you." I am awake and Christ is shining on me. :-) I am waiting expectantly to see what God has in store for me. Are you ready to take your journey with God?
As a side note I finally kicked into the physical side of this too--I'm back at the gym and have started taking dance classes.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Close but Closed
I feel very fortunate that I have a large group of great friends. I have friends from different backgrounds, places, age groups and status. I've always thought of myself as a friendly and open person but have recently come to realize that is not true.
I had one of those close friends ask me a question recently that shocked me. I was shocked because after knowing them for such a long time and having spent a lot of time with them I would have assumed they knew me well enough to know the answer. It took me a while to realize that I had been closed off--even to close friends. I didn't let anyone in. I had built up walls around me to protect me so how could anyone really know me? The only way for someone to know me (or you) is to open up. Later, God revealed to me just how big those walls of Jericho (3/28 post) were that I built so many years ago.
2 Corinthians 5:7 We live by faith, not by sight. If we truly trust God and live by faith there is no need to have walls. We are called to share our lives with others. I discovered something interesting--if you are building up walls to keep others out this directly contradicts God's Word. Philippians 2:3-4 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. And 1 Peter 4:10 says Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. If I'm busy with those walls I'm not focusing on what God's called me to do. I can't be a very effective witness if I don't open up to others.
By no accident, today's sermon was about crossroads - making life's biggest decisions. You and I can experience a dramatically altered life IF we choose to move in the direction God leads. If I start with God He will always direct me in the best way to go. It sounds pretty easy but is hard to do. Psalm 119:105 says Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. I'm a visual person so I have this illustration that works well for me. I love camping and the outdoors. If you've ever been camping and need to go anywhere after sunset you know that you need a lantern or flashlight. The lantern/flashlight will shine in a very small, specific path (it only illuminates a set distance). You have to take a step forward to see farther. Each step you take another area comes into sight. In the same way, we have to trust God to guide our path. As we take a step in faith, He reveals something new.
I was at a crossroad today, I chose to make God's Word the starting point for all of my decisions and tear down the walls that I built. What will you do at your crossroad?
2 Corinthians 13:14 May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
I had one of those close friends ask me a question recently that shocked me. I was shocked because after knowing them for such a long time and having spent a lot of time with them I would have assumed they knew me well enough to know the answer. It took me a while to realize that I had been closed off--even to close friends. I didn't let anyone in. I had built up walls around me to protect me so how could anyone really know me? The only way for someone to know me (or you) is to open up. Later, God revealed to me just how big those walls of Jericho (3/28 post) were that I built so many years ago.
2 Corinthians 5:7 We live by faith, not by sight. If we truly trust God and live by faith there is no need to have walls. We are called to share our lives with others. I discovered something interesting--if you are building up walls to keep others out this directly contradicts God's Word. Philippians 2:3-4 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. And 1 Peter 4:10 says Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. If I'm busy with those walls I'm not focusing on what God's called me to do. I can't be a very effective witness if I don't open up to others.
By no accident, today's sermon was about crossroads - making life's biggest decisions. You and I can experience a dramatically altered life IF we choose to move in the direction God leads. If I start with God He will always direct me in the best way to go. It sounds pretty easy but is hard to do. Psalm 119:105 says Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. I'm a visual person so I have this illustration that works well for me. I love camping and the outdoors. If you've ever been camping and need to go anywhere after sunset you know that you need a lantern or flashlight. The lantern/flashlight will shine in a very small, specific path (it only illuminates a set distance). You have to take a step forward to see farther. Each step you take another area comes into sight. In the same way, we have to trust God to guide our path. As we take a step in faith, He reveals something new.
I was at a crossroad today, I chose to make God's Word the starting point for all of my decisions and tear down the walls that I built. What will you do at your crossroad?
2 Corinthians 13:14 May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
You Gotta Take The First Step
It takes boldness...courage...strength...faith...to take the first step. It is the scariest; it will take you to the 'unknown'. I'm currently in a study that chronicles the Israelites forty-year journey from the exodus in Egypt through the wilderness to Canaan (the Promise Land). I had previously studied it several years go about Moses life and this journey. This time something new caught my attention.
When the Israelites began their exodus from Egypt after God had freed them from bondage by performing many miracles they came to the Red Sea. Nothing but water in front of them and Pharoh's army on their heels. God performed another miracle at the Red Sea by dividing the waters and creating dry ground for them to cross. I always thought that must have been amazing to see--a wall of water on your right and on your left as you pass through. And think about it, there were over two million men, women, children, animals, etc., this must have taken some time to get everyone across. Once they were across and Pharoh's army was crossing, the water came crashing down! (Exodus 14:15-29)
As they came closer to the Promised Land (Canaan) and were preparing to enter God called them to step into the Jordan River. Not on dry ground mind you--at the Red Sea God had commanded Moses to stretch out his hand with his staff and divide the water--before they crossed. This time however, he told them to step before any water was removed. God told the priests to go stand in the river! (Joshua 3:8) There are two things here. First, the priests, carrying the ark of the covenant, were to go first. God's presence was going before them! Second, as they journeyed with God for forty years they became completely dependent upon Him for provision and it increased their faith in Him. He had performed miracle after miracle now He was asking them to have faith in Him to take the first step. All of that wandering in the wilderness was preparation.
In Luke 12:48b it says From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked. The journey was long for them but the reward was great. They had to learn to obey God and step out in faith to receive all that God had for them. He asks the same of us today. Every small act of obedience leads to another opportunity which is a greater reward.
There is a song by Britt Nicole, Walk on Water, that I just love. It talks about stepping out in faith and trusting God with your life...no matter what is going on. Stepping out into the unknown--that's exactly what the Israelites did...and I will too--what about you?
When the Israelites began their exodus from Egypt after God had freed them from bondage by performing many miracles they came to the Red Sea. Nothing but water in front of them and Pharoh's army on their heels. God performed another miracle at the Red Sea by dividing the waters and creating dry ground for them to cross. I always thought that must have been amazing to see--a wall of water on your right and on your left as you pass through. And think about it, there were over two million men, women, children, animals, etc., this must have taken some time to get everyone across. Once they were across and Pharoh's army was crossing, the water came crashing down! (Exodus 14:15-29)
As they came closer to the Promised Land (Canaan) and were preparing to enter God called them to step into the Jordan River. Not on dry ground mind you--at the Red Sea God had commanded Moses to stretch out his hand with his staff and divide the water--before they crossed. This time however, he told them to step before any water was removed. God told the priests to go stand in the river! (Joshua 3:8) There are two things here. First, the priests, carrying the ark of the covenant, were to go first. God's presence was going before them! Second, as they journeyed with God for forty years they became completely dependent upon Him for provision and it increased their faith in Him. He had performed miracle after miracle now He was asking them to have faith in Him to take the first step. All of that wandering in the wilderness was preparation.
In Luke 12:48b it says From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked. The journey was long for them but the reward was great. They had to learn to obey God and step out in faith to receive all that God had for them. He asks the same of us today. Every small act of obedience leads to another opportunity which is a greater reward.
There is a song by Britt Nicole, Walk on Water, that I just love. It talks about stepping out in faith and trusting God with your life...no matter what is going on. Stepping out into the unknown--that's exactly what the Israelites did...and I will too--what about you?
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Pain & Suffering
Have you ever seen someone who is suffering and in great pain but is joyful? I have. It is extraordinary to witness. Only God through Christ Jesus can give indescribable joy in the midst of great pain and suffering. As we are on the heels of Easter, the day we commemorate Christs' resurrection, I can't help but think of His pain and suffering. He INTENTIONALLY endured the pain and suffering for our benefit. Through His suffering we were given the privledge of becoming God's children--heirs. In Romans 8:12 says Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.
I've previously mentioned the recent passing of my friend Jenny. Cancer took her life at 39 but while she was here she had that indescribable joy. I have another friend who is on her second regime of chemo and radiation--she was full of joy on Easter. And yet another friend who will have surgery in a week to remove a mass. She has such a peace about what is going on in her body. She has complete faith that God is in control of her situation. All of these women share in the suffering of Christ but also the comfort. 2 Corinthians 1:5 says For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows.
I believe each of these women, even though they are suffering, have an intimate relationship with our Savior. I know of another young lady who is suffering and has yet to see Jesus. I'm praying now that she will come face to face with her Savior and accept Him as Lord of her life. 1 Peter 5:10 says, And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. What comfort! God Himself will restore and make you strong, firm and steadfast. This is a promise of God and He keeps all of His promises!
I have learned that one of the best weapons we have is the blessing of standing in the gap for our friends and families. As Galatians 6:2 says, Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Praying for these women is the best defense. Pray without ceasing. I Thessalonians 5:17 A long time ago someone shared a story with me of how a friend of a hurting woman began praying that God would give her (the friend) part of the hurting woman's burden. What an incredible gift! She willingly ask God to take on some of her burden because it was weighing her down. This is a gift my friend--we can all do this--God commands it in Galatians 6:2. If you have a friend that is suffering or in pain reach out to them--pray for them--ask God to give you part of their burden. You will be blessed!
There is comfort in knowing that you have friends standing beside you. Make every effort to be a friend to others. We all need help some time. Ecclessiates 4:10 tells us, If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!
Live like you were dying! You only get one chance to live this life--make it count for the eternal kingdom.
I've previously mentioned the recent passing of my friend Jenny. Cancer took her life at 39 but while she was here she had that indescribable joy. I have another friend who is on her second regime of chemo and radiation--she was full of joy on Easter. And yet another friend who will have surgery in a week to remove a mass. She has such a peace about what is going on in her body. She has complete faith that God is in control of her situation. All of these women share in the suffering of Christ but also the comfort. 2 Corinthians 1:5 says For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows.
I believe each of these women, even though they are suffering, have an intimate relationship with our Savior. I know of another young lady who is suffering and has yet to see Jesus. I'm praying now that she will come face to face with her Savior and accept Him as Lord of her life. 1 Peter 5:10 says, And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. What comfort! God Himself will restore and make you strong, firm and steadfast. This is a promise of God and He keeps all of His promises!
I have learned that one of the best weapons we have is the blessing of standing in the gap for our friends and families. As Galatians 6:2 says, Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Praying for these women is the best defense. Pray without ceasing. I Thessalonians 5:17 A long time ago someone shared a story with me of how a friend of a hurting woman began praying that God would give her (the friend) part of the hurting woman's burden. What an incredible gift! She willingly ask God to take on some of her burden because it was weighing her down. This is a gift my friend--we can all do this--God commands it in Galatians 6:2. If you have a friend that is suffering or in pain reach out to them--pray for them--ask God to give you part of their burden. You will be blessed!
There is comfort in knowing that you have friends standing beside you. Make every effort to be a friend to others. We all need help some time. Ecclessiates 4:10 tells us, If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!
Live like you were dying! You only get one chance to live this life--make it count for the eternal kingdom.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Pursue With Passion
What do you currently pursue with passion? Are you pursuing anything? A career? A marriage? I looked up the definition of passion. Noun 1. Strong and barely controllable emotion. 2. A state or outburst of such emotion. I also found in the Merriam-Webster dictionary Passion: the sufferings of Christ between the night of the Last Supper and his death. It's interesting that the dictionary defines passion as the sufferings of Christ. As we celebrated Easter yesterday you probably heard the story of Christ's death, burial and resurrection found in Matthew 26-28.
Have you ever thought about pursuing God with passion (barely controllable emotion)? In Proverbs 21:21 it says, He who pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor. And then in 1 Timothy 6:11 it says But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. God is righteousness. We were created in His image (Genesis 1:26). God is giving us a recipe for success. He tells us pursue righteousness.
Can you imagine what life would be like if we completely surrendered every area of our life over to God's authority and pursued Him with the passion that He pursues us? Going back to the Merriam-Webster definition of passion, I can see why Christ's sufferings between the night of last supper and His death. 1. He was betrayed by Judas Matthew 26:14 (man in His inner circle) 2. Was rejected by His own people (Sanhedrin-high ranking Jews) Matthew 26:56-63 3. Another man, Peter, in His inner circle denies Him three times Matthew 26:69-74; He was beaten, mocked, spat on, and ultimately put to death by the cruelest form--death on a cross. He did all of this WILLINGLY! That is passion. His passion brought about our restored relationship with God. Without Christ we would not have a relationship with God.
Hebrews 9:14-15 says How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God! For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance—now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant. In light of this knowledge why would we not want to pursue God with passion?
I have a prayer that I pray--I ask for passion like Paul, wisdom like Solomon, a heart like David, faith like Abraham and a love like Christ but the truth is--Christ is all of these things. Through His blood we are offered the privledge of coming to God asking for any of these things in Christs' name. James 1:5 says If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
Ask God to give you a passion to pursue Him--He will do it!
Have you ever thought about pursuing God with passion (barely controllable emotion)? In Proverbs 21:21 it says, He who pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honor. And then in 1 Timothy 6:11 it says But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. God is righteousness. We were created in His image (Genesis 1:26). God is giving us a recipe for success. He tells us pursue righteousness.
Can you imagine what life would be like if we completely surrendered every area of our life over to God's authority and pursued Him with the passion that He pursues us? Going back to the Merriam-Webster definition of passion, I can see why Christ's sufferings between the night of last supper and His death. 1. He was betrayed by Judas Matthew 26:14 (man in His inner circle) 2. Was rejected by His own people (Sanhedrin-high ranking Jews) Matthew 26:56-63 3. Another man, Peter, in His inner circle denies Him three times Matthew 26:69-74; He was beaten, mocked, spat on, and ultimately put to death by the cruelest form--death on a cross. He did all of this WILLINGLY! That is passion. His passion brought about our restored relationship with God. Without Christ we would not have a relationship with God.
Hebrews 9:14-15 says How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God! For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance—now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant. In light of this knowledge why would we not want to pursue God with passion?
I have a prayer that I pray--I ask for passion like Paul, wisdom like Solomon, a heart like David, faith like Abraham and a love like Christ but the truth is--Christ is all of these things. Through His blood we are offered the privledge of coming to God asking for any of these things in Christs' name. James 1:5 says If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
Ask God to give you a passion to pursue Him--He will do it!
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Cherish Each Moment
I talked about sacred moments the other day but today I heard the most profound statement from a fifteen year old young man. Today we celebrated Jenny's life at a memorial service. As I was reading and praying this morning I knew that she would encourage people from the grave--and she did just that. Pastor Don shared some of her prayer requests from years ago and they reflected her steadfast faith in her Savior. Even more amazing to me was her son, Jonathon, who gave her eulogy. He spoke with words beyond his years. His request to all there was to cherish each moment of your life. Her brother Brandon also spoke. His love for Jenny amazed me. He spent countless hours by her side taking care of her.
Psalm 139:16b says All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. God has a plan for your life and has every day written in His book. How amazing is that? We don't like talking about death or the idea of dying but the reality is we all die. The days we spend on this earth are but a blink of the eye to God. We can get so caught up in the world rather than focusing on God. In Matthew 6:33 Jesus tells us "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." We need to make the most of every day and ensure that we left nothing undone. We are not promised a tomorrow. James 4:14 says Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. And Luke 12:20 reminds us that we can build up our bank account but in the end it won't matter. “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’
I find that when I put God first and focus on the things of God that I have great peace and joy....I live the abundant life. To cherish each moment you must be willing to slow down and put your life in the right order. We are each created for a purpose. Jenny's purpose was to share joy and encouragement to others. She continues to do that from the grave. I can only imagine her sitting at the Savior's feet as she hears ...‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’
Take time today to evaluate your life. Are you living the abundant life that Christ promised in John 10:10? Are you cherishing each moment? If not, turn to your Savior and seek His counsel.
Cherish each moment....you only get this one life. What legacy will you leave?
Psalm 139:16b says All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. God has a plan for your life and has every day written in His book. How amazing is that? We don't like talking about death or the idea of dying but the reality is we all die. The days we spend on this earth are but a blink of the eye to God. We can get so caught up in the world rather than focusing on God. In Matthew 6:33 Jesus tells us "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." We need to make the most of every day and ensure that we left nothing undone. We are not promised a tomorrow. James 4:14 says Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. And Luke 12:20 reminds us that we can build up our bank account but in the end it won't matter. “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’
I find that when I put God first and focus on the things of God that I have great peace and joy....I live the abundant life. To cherish each moment you must be willing to slow down and put your life in the right order. We are each created for a purpose. Jenny's purpose was to share joy and encouragement to others. She continues to do that from the grave. I can only imagine her sitting at the Savior's feet as she hears ...‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’
Take time today to evaluate your life. Are you living the abundant life that Christ promised in John 10:10? Are you cherishing each moment? If not, turn to your Savior and seek His counsel.
Cherish each moment....you only get this one life. What legacy will you leave?
In Between
Have you ever thought about the 24-36 hours in between Christ's death on Good Friday and His resurrection on Sunday? I've been thinking about that today. My friend Jenny's memorial service is today. We will mourn her loss but celebrate the fact that she is with Jesus now and we will one day see her again. Luke 23:43 Jesus answered him, “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.” Jenny's permanent address is in paradise--how wonderful is that?
I've often praised God for allowing me to live after the cross and not before. Not because of modern conveniences (the toilet is nice :-)) but because I have the Holy Spirit indwelt. In the Old Testament and even during Jesus' time only certain people had the Spirit of God come upon them. Today, we all have that privledge. Can you imagine trying to live under the Levitical laws? If you are not familiar with them I enourage you to read Leviticus. I'm certain you will praise God that He chose to allow you to live after the cross.
Jesus promises the Holy Spirit in John 14:15-17--“If you love me, you will obey what I command. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.
But think about the disciples and those that followed Jesus for three years that acknowledged He was the Son of God who came to save the world. Can you imagine the devastation they must have felt? Although Christ had told of His death, burial and resurrection I don't think they could have fully comprehended at the time. We know differently. So how do we (you and I) spend this Saturday? Are we praising God for His plan of salvation? Are we praising Christ for His obedience (even to death) so that we might not only share eternity with Him but have the Holy Spirit indwelt within us to have intimacy now.
Jesus explained in John 14:6 ....“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
As we spend this day 'in between' meditate on the sacrifice and love Christ bestowed on us and give Him praise and honor for His obedience to the Father.
I've often praised God for allowing me to live after the cross and not before. Not because of modern conveniences (the toilet is nice :-)) but because I have the Holy Spirit indwelt. In the Old Testament and even during Jesus' time only certain people had the Spirit of God come upon them. Today, we all have that privledge. Can you imagine trying to live under the Levitical laws? If you are not familiar with them I enourage you to read Leviticus. I'm certain you will praise God that He chose to allow you to live after the cross.
Jesus promises the Holy Spirit in John 14:15-17--“If you love me, you will obey what I command. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.
But think about the disciples and those that followed Jesus for three years that acknowledged He was the Son of God who came to save the world. Can you imagine the devastation they must have felt? Although Christ had told of His death, burial and resurrection I don't think they could have fully comprehended at the time. We know differently. So how do we (you and I) spend this Saturday? Are we praising God for His plan of salvation? Are we praising Christ for His obedience (even to death) so that we might not only share eternity with Him but have the Holy Spirit indwelt within us to have intimacy now.
Jesus explained in John 14:6 ....“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
As we spend this day 'in between' meditate on the sacrifice and love Christ bestowed on us and give Him praise and honor for His obedience to the Father.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Good Friday?
I've been very fortunate that the companies I've worked for over the years have given Good Friday as a holiday. I've had a tradition on this particular Friday morning and always look forward to it. I get up (not so early :-)) and make belgium waffles. After breakfast my daughter and I would read Matthew 26-28 which tells of the plot against Jesus through the resurrection. Then we watch the Passion of Christ. Over the years we've invited friends to join us in this ritual. This year I wasn't much up to making the waffles as my daugther wasn't here. I spent more time reflecting on the significance of today...Good Friday.
As I watched the torture that Christ endured in the movie I couldn't help but think about the name 'Good Friday'. We consider it good that Christ chose to die for our sins....a very painful death. Crucifixion is the most heinous death one could endure. Isaiah 53:5 says But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed. All that He endured was for you and for me.
Over the next 72 hours I want to challenge you to read Matthew 26-28 and thank Christ and praise Him for all He endured so that we can have our relationship restored.
Can you imagine what it must have been like on resurrection day when they said, "He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: Luke 24:6
I spent time this afternoon at a brown bag concert. It amazed me the hundreds of people that crammed themselves into this small parking lot of Chick-Fil-A to hear Christian music. We were openly praising God in song. I pray as God reveals Himself more to you over the next several days that you would have Psalm 100 engraved on your heart. Psalm 100--Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.
I pray that when Sunday arrives that you will have a new revelation of our Savior Jesus Christ and you've entered into a deeper relationship.
As I watched the torture that Christ endured in the movie I couldn't help but think about the name 'Good Friday'. We consider it good that Christ chose to die for our sins....a very painful death. Crucifixion is the most heinous death one could endure. Isaiah 53:5 says But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed. All that He endured was for you and for me.
Over the next 72 hours I want to challenge you to read Matthew 26-28 and thank Christ and praise Him for all He endured so that we can have our relationship restored.
Can you imagine what it must have been like on resurrection day when they said, "He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: Luke 24:6
I spent time this afternoon at a brown bag concert. It amazed me the hundreds of people that crammed themselves into this small parking lot of Chick-Fil-A to hear Christian music. We were openly praising God in song. I pray as God reveals Himself more to you over the next several days that you would have Psalm 100 engraved on your heart. Psalm 100--Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.
I pray that when Sunday arrives that you will have a new revelation of our Savior Jesus Christ and you've entered into a deeper relationship.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Sacred Moments
Tonight I had the privledge of participating in a Passover Seder. It is a special meal where each food has special significance that tells the story of the Israelites exodus. There is a cup of water with salt, a vegtable (lettuce at our table) which was dipped twice in the water which represented the bitterness and harshness of their slavery. Then there was the Charoset; a sweet brown mixture of brown sugar, apples, cinnamon and red wine. This represented the mortar used to build the storehouses in Egypt. The Z'roa is lamb (we used beets) that represents sacrifice; a visual reminder of death passing over the Israelites homes. Next was the hard boiled egg represents life. The last item is Matzot - unleavened bread broken into three pieces. The three pieces to some represent the trinity- God Father, Son, Holy Spirit; to others it represents Abraham, Isaac & Jacob and still others it represents the death, burial and resurrection of Christ. There were also four glasses of wine during the meal; each representing something-sanctification, plagues, redemption and praise.
As you can imagine there was a significant amount of preparation that lead to this meal. While in the midst of each food there was scripture read, blessings read and prayers given. It was like nothing I've ever experienced before. I truly was in the presence of the Lord during this meal. In James 4:8 it says Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. During part of this meal we were to stop and wash our hands--a sign of cleansing our bodies and souls.
This celebration was to be for generations to come according to Exodus 12:17. While I am not Jewish this Seder opened my eyes in a new way to Christ in Luke 22:19 "And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.” I have taken communion many times over the years but tonight it was such a sacred moment (not to say that the others weren't). Going through this ritual drew me into a closer relationship with God and understanding of His love and compassion for us. I only observed a portion of the Seder tonight but I look forward to next year and excitedly anticipate participating in the full 7 days. I am not Jewish and this isn't necessary for me to serve the Lord but what a wonderful way to worship and reflect my reverance for God.
At one point during the Seder a blessing is read. Have you ever read a blessing over your children? If you haven't, let me encourage you to make a blessing over your children. As we enter into Passover pause to see how God would desire you to observe this next four days.
Praise God He is risen and desires to share life with us!
As you can imagine there was a significant amount of preparation that lead to this meal. While in the midst of each food there was scripture read, blessings read and prayers given. It was like nothing I've ever experienced before. I truly was in the presence of the Lord during this meal. In James 4:8 it says Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. During part of this meal we were to stop and wash our hands--a sign of cleansing our bodies and souls.
This celebration was to be for generations to come according to Exodus 12:17. While I am not Jewish this Seder opened my eyes in a new way to Christ in Luke 22:19 "And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.” I have taken communion many times over the years but tonight it was such a sacred moment (not to say that the others weren't). Going through this ritual drew me into a closer relationship with God and understanding of His love and compassion for us. I only observed a portion of the Seder tonight but I look forward to next year and excitedly anticipate participating in the full 7 days. I am not Jewish and this isn't necessary for me to serve the Lord but what a wonderful way to worship and reflect my reverance for God.
At one point during the Seder a blessing is read. Have you ever read a blessing over your children? If you haven't, let me encourage you to make a blessing over your children. As we enter into Passover pause to see how God would desire you to observe this next four days.
Praise God He is risen and desires to share life with us!
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