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?
Thursday, April 28, 2011
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!
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Don't Miss An Opportunity
As I've been lamenting the life of my friend Jenny I can still see her sweet smile. Her heart was full of joy and radiated God's glory. She always shared it with others. She had the gift of encouragement and was an incredible encourager to me and many others.
I remember when she was diagnosed several years ago and the doctors gave poor prognosis. Jenny confidently proclaimed that God would heal her body of Type IIIB Small Cell Carcinoma and he did. Late 2008 there was no evidence of cancer. She gave God the glory for her healing. When the cancer came back she still had the joy and steadfast faith in Christ. I 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." Now, her body is completely healed and new.
Praise God she no longer suffers and has received her crown. She told me once in an email that she was looking forward to putting on her crown in the mirror each morning as she proclaimed her role as the crown of creation created by God himself.
There is a song that says 'sometimes living takes the life out of you....life is hard but God is good'. Jenny truly lived her life to the fullest. Ephesians 5:15-17 says "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. I believe Jenny lived her life to the fullest by making the most of every opportunity. It has also caused me to reflect on my own life. Have I chosen today to make the most of every opportunity? Have I left a legacy that points back to the cross? Will I hear "well done good and faithful servant" Matthew 25:21?
Barbara, Brandon and Jonathon have the peace of knowing they will see Jenny again but I ask that you pray that God would shower them with "the peace that surpasses all understanding". In Isaiah 41:10 it says, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. As Jenny is at Jesus' feet wearing her crown of life I know that God is upholding Barbara, Brandon and Jonathon with his righteous right hand.
Jenny's life will be celebrated on Saturday--the day before we celebrate our Savior's resurrection. She now celebrates her resurrection with Him. Don't miss out on the opportunity that God gives you each day to reflect His glory.
I remember when she was diagnosed several years ago and the doctors gave poor prognosis. Jenny confidently proclaimed that God would heal her body of Type IIIB Small Cell Carcinoma and he did. Late 2008 there was no evidence of cancer. She gave God the glory for her healing. When the cancer came back she still had the joy and steadfast faith in Christ. I 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." Now, her body is completely healed and new.
Praise God she no longer suffers and has received her crown. She told me once in an email that she was looking forward to putting on her crown in the mirror each morning as she proclaimed her role as the crown of creation created by God himself.
There is a song that says 'sometimes living takes the life out of you....life is hard but God is good'. Jenny truly lived her life to the fullest. Ephesians 5:15-17 says "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. I believe Jenny lived her life to the fullest by making the most of every opportunity. It has also caused me to reflect on my own life. Have I chosen today to make the most of every opportunity? Have I left a legacy that points back to the cross? Will I hear "well done good and faithful servant" Matthew 25:21?
Barbara, Brandon and Jonathon have the peace of knowing they will see Jenny again but I ask that you pray that God would shower them with "the peace that surpasses all understanding". In Isaiah 41:10 it says, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. As Jenny is at Jesus' feet wearing her crown of life I know that God is upholding Barbara, Brandon and Jonathon with his righteous right hand.
Jenny's life will be celebrated on Saturday--the day before we celebrate our Savior's resurrection. She now celebrates her resurrection with Him. Don't miss out on the opportunity that God gives you each day to reflect His glory.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Live on Purpose
I went last night to see a dear sweet friend of mine. She was moved to hospice this week and has only been given days. This tore at my heart. She would be 40 this year and she has a sixteen year old son with special needs. She has an incredible spirit about her....even now.
Psalm 23 came to mind. The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil,
for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
I remember memorizing this as a kid and not fully comprehending what it meant. Today, now more than ever, these words provide comfort and peace in a difficult time. It is so difficult to understand why someone is afflicted with such pain and disease while another is not. I have noticed one thing. Those individuals that I have known that have suffered greatly are also consumed with joy that only comes from the Lord. Jenny radiated God's glory and praised His name when she was first diagnosed with cancer. Her faith was strong and she stood as an example for many.
I began this blog around 4am on Saturday morning before leaving for the MS150. It is now Monday evening and my precious friend went to be with Jesus. She truly dwells in the house of the Lord forever. She fought the good fight and finished the race well. I hope when Christ calls me home that I will be able to say the same.
My friend if you are reading this take time tonight to assess your life. Make sure you are living your life on purpose....with a purpose...the purpose that God created you for.
Psalm 23 came to mind. The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul.
He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil,
for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
I remember memorizing this as a kid and not fully comprehending what it meant. Today, now more than ever, these words provide comfort and peace in a difficult time. It is so difficult to understand why someone is afflicted with such pain and disease while another is not. I have noticed one thing. Those individuals that I have known that have suffered greatly are also consumed with joy that only comes from the Lord. Jenny radiated God's glory and praised His name when she was first diagnosed with cancer. Her faith was strong and she stood as an example for many.
I began this blog around 4am on Saturday morning before leaving for the MS150. It is now Monday evening and my precious friend went to be with Jesus. She truly dwells in the house of the Lord forever. She fought the good fight and finished the race well. I hope when Christ calls me home that I will be able to say the same.
My friend if you are reading this take time tonight to assess your life. Make sure you are living your life on purpose....with a purpose...the purpose that God created you for.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Never Alone
It's interesting how much our lives mimic a roller coaster ride. I'm not one of those thrill seekers that enjoy roller coasters. On the contrary, just the thought of it upsets my stomache. Roller coasters have steep climbs, sudden drops, jerks to the left, jerks to the right, all at a fast speed. We have moments in our lives that we feel we are on the top of that roller coaster (the thrill and excitement of it all) only to find moments later going into a nose dive (feeling as though your going to lose your lunch).
I had been a single parent for sixteen years with many ups and downs in parenting but last November I had experienced one of those 'nose dives'. As any parent knows, raising a teenager is not easy and has its challenges but is worth it in the long run. My daughter, after months of arguments and fights decided to go live with her father. This was devastating for me--as a mother and as a person. I had always wanted a husband and children to take care of. Not only had I failed at marriage, now I was faced with failure as a parent. I was now all alone. But in Deuteronomy 31:8 it says that, 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.”
I wasn't really alone but because I had focused on my circumstance--how I had failed, what I was missing, what had been done to me--I did not acknowledge God's authority and control over the situation. Romans 8:28 says "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." While it was painful for me at the time because I loved my daughter so dearly and missed her greatly I saw that God was teaching me and drawing me into a closer relationship with Him. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. according to Hebrews 12:11. Not that I have been completely trained by this experience but I can say that it has produced many things--this blog is one of them.
While I had always desired a husband and children to take care of, it didn't happen the way I wanted so I clung tightly to my daughter. Through the pain, I learned that God did not give my daughter as a gift to hold onto tightly but to show His deep love as He did with His Sone. God must be put above children, husband(if you have one ;-)) and everything else in your life. You cannot give Him almost everything. He desires it all. Hebrews 13:5 says "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” I can trust God's promises and know that He will never leave me or forsake me but I must be willing to trust Him in all circumstances.
No matter what you may be going through just remember it is temporary; Psalm 30:5b "...weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning." Whether you like the roller coaster or you are like me and don't care for it, know that God's in charge of the ride. He loves and cares for you and will be with you through it all, just cry out to Him. Psalm 120:1, I call on the Lord in my distress, and he answers me.
I had been a single parent for sixteen years with many ups and downs in parenting but last November I had experienced one of those 'nose dives'. As any parent knows, raising a teenager is not easy and has its challenges but is worth it in the long run. My daughter, after months of arguments and fights decided to go live with her father. This was devastating for me--as a mother and as a person. I had always wanted a husband and children to take care of. Not only had I failed at marriage, now I was faced with failure as a parent. I was now all alone. But in Deuteronomy 31:8 it says that, 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.”
I wasn't really alone but because I had focused on my circumstance--how I had failed, what I was missing, what had been done to me--I did not acknowledge God's authority and control over the situation. Romans 8:28 says "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." While it was painful for me at the time because I loved my daughter so dearly and missed her greatly I saw that God was teaching me and drawing me into a closer relationship with Him. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. according to Hebrews 12:11. Not that I have been completely trained by this experience but I can say that it has produced many things--this blog is one of them.
While I had always desired a husband and children to take care of, it didn't happen the way I wanted so I clung tightly to my daughter. Through the pain, I learned that God did not give my daughter as a gift to hold onto tightly but to show His deep love as He did with His Sone. God must be put above children, husband(if you have one ;-)) and everything else in your life. You cannot give Him almost everything. He desires it all. Hebrews 13:5 says "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” I can trust God's promises and know that He will never leave me or forsake me but I must be willing to trust Him in all circumstances.
No matter what you may be going through just remember it is temporary; Psalm 30:5b "...weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning." Whether you like the roller coaster or you are like me and don't care for it, know that God's in charge of the ride. He loves and cares for you and will be with you through it all, just cry out to Him. Psalm 120:1, I call on the Lord in my distress, and he answers me.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Great Plan...Stick With It
Did you know that God had a great plan for your life before you were even born? Simply amazing! According to Psalm 139:13 He knit us in our mothers womb, the hairs of our heads are numbered according to Matthew 10:30, and all our days were ordained in His book before one came to be is found in Psalm 139:16. God has an ultimate plan. Think about it, He created the earth, galaxy, man..EVERYTHING in seven days! He loves us so deeply and desires the very best for us.
I love Jeremiah 29:11, "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." When I rededicated my life in 2003 and made my way back to church I attended a Singles class that had this verse posted across the center beam in the room. That scripture gave me great comfort and hope at the time. Since that time I've grown in my walk with the Lord and still find peace and comfort in the verse but today God allowed me to see it in a new light.
I had always believed in God's plan to give me hope and a future but always saw it as a future promise. Today, God showed me that the promise is for the present...NOW....TODAY. God is working out the plan for my life everyday....which includes my failures and shortcomings. How marvelous is that? Proverbs 16:9 says, In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps. What is incredible to me is that we, man, actually think we have it all figured out. We make plans, goals, etc. and make decisions without seeking God. Then when we fail we cry out to God as to why He allowed us to fail. Why in the world would we assume that we know better than God, the Creator of the Universe?
There was a movie in the late 90's, The Truman Show starring Jim Carey. The movie was based on the life of Truman Burbank, a simple, ordinary man that was the main character on a reality TV show although he wasn't aware that his entire life was scripted. His life took place on a studio set, all the people around him, actors, knew this but Truman. I think our lives resemble the Truman show. God has given us free will and allows us to make choices however He is still in control of all things. God orchestrates every detail of our life for our good (Romans 8:28). Praise God He is the one in control of everything!
Whether you are on a mountain top like Moses and experience the radiant glory of the Great I AM or you are in valley crying out to the Great Shepherd know that He is with you in whichever situation you find yourself--He knew in advance and it is part of His great plan for you. In Proverbs 16:3 it says Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. And in Proverbs 4:11, I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths.
God's plan for you is great...stick with Him and He will lead the way for you.
I love Jeremiah 29:11, "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." When I rededicated my life in 2003 and made my way back to church I attended a Singles class that had this verse posted across the center beam in the room. That scripture gave me great comfort and hope at the time. Since that time I've grown in my walk with the Lord and still find peace and comfort in the verse but today God allowed me to see it in a new light.
I had always believed in God's plan to give me hope and a future but always saw it as a future promise. Today, God showed me that the promise is for the present...NOW....TODAY. God is working out the plan for my life everyday....which includes my failures and shortcomings. How marvelous is that? Proverbs 16:9 says, In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps. What is incredible to me is that we, man, actually think we have it all figured out. We make plans, goals, etc. and make decisions without seeking God. Then when we fail we cry out to God as to why He allowed us to fail. Why in the world would we assume that we know better than God, the Creator of the Universe?
There was a movie in the late 90's, The Truman Show starring Jim Carey. The movie was based on the life of Truman Burbank, a simple, ordinary man that was the main character on a reality TV show although he wasn't aware that his entire life was scripted. His life took place on a studio set, all the people around him, actors, knew this but Truman. I think our lives resemble the Truman show. God has given us free will and allows us to make choices however He is still in control of all things. God orchestrates every detail of our life for our good (Romans 8:28). Praise God He is the one in control of everything!
Whether you are on a mountain top like Moses and experience the radiant glory of the Great I AM or you are in valley crying out to the Great Shepherd know that He is with you in whichever situation you find yourself--He knew in advance and it is part of His great plan for you. In Proverbs 16:3 it says Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. And in Proverbs 4:11, I guide you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths.
God's plan for you is great...stick with Him and He will lead the way for you.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Judging
Are you guilty of judging others? The homeless man on the side of the road holding a sign? The kid in all black or covered in tattoos? The man(or woman) just released on parole? Did you form an opinion on each of these? If we are all honest I think that we were in fact judging others. We may form an opinion (judge) by someone's appearance, what they say, how they act or a myriad of other things. Have you ever stopped and wondered why you've just judge other someone?
James 4:12 says "There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor? And, in Romans 14:10 says, "You, then, why do you judge your brother? Or why do you look down on your brother? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat. What a stark warning to us about judging others. God is the one true Judge--and we will all answer to Him alone.
Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. Colossians 2:16 Judging involves conforming to the world's idea not reflecting God's glory. Scripture is clear on two things about judging--1. God will judge us all--and 2. We are told not to judge others. Luke 6:37 says, “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.
Recently, the Holy Spirit has helped me to be more sensitive to the things of God and it has been astounding. But, at the same time it has been grievous. I now think about who I am next to God and it helps me keep my focus away from judging others. The other side of that is that if I am not judging others I tend to be serving them as Christ did--this is bearing good fruit. Ezekiel 33:20 is a reminder "But I will judge each of you according to his own ways.”
I want to be judged for my servants heart and compassion towards others not for a judgmental spirit.
James 4:12 says "There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor? And, in Romans 14:10 says, "You, then, why do you judge your brother? Or why do you look down on your brother? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat. What a stark warning to us about judging others. God is the one true Judge--and we will all answer to Him alone.
Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. Colossians 2:16 Judging involves conforming to the world's idea not reflecting God's glory. Scripture is clear on two things about judging--1. God will judge us all--and 2. We are told not to judge others. Luke 6:37 says, “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.
Recently, the Holy Spirit has helped me to be more sensitive to the things of God and it has been astounding. But, at the same time it has been grievous. I now think about who I am next to God and it helps me keep my focus away from judging others. The other side of that is that if I am not judging others I tend to be serving them as Christ did--this is bearing good fruit. Ezekiel 33:20 is a reminder "But I will judge each of you according to his own ways.”
I want to be judged for my servants heart and compassion towards others not for a judgmental spirit.
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Surviving or Thriving?
Have you ever thought about it? Are you merely surviving or are you thriving? I'm not talking about status, financial wealth, etc.--the things of this world. I'm talking about thriving--living the abundant life Jesus promised. John 10:10 says, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly. The thief (satan) intends to steal our joy and thwart our efforts to live life to the fullest that God intends.
There are so many things in this world that can take our focus away from God. Having a prominent status, financial wealth, etc. are not bad in and of themselves. It is when we put them before God. God does not share His glory. The first commandment found in Exodus 20:3 says, You shall have no other gods before Me. You may think of the golden calf the Israelites created, but today, that golden calf may look like a job, kids' sports activities, a car, a house--anything that is placed before your worship of a Holy God. God calls us to an intimiate relationship with him. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. James 4:8
Did you know that God is jealous? Deteronomy 4:24 says, "For the LORD your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God.
Surviving is living with the weight of your sin, burdened by this world and trying to make it through on your own. It is attempting to 'work' for your salvation; still trying to be 'good enough'. Thriving is acknowledging God's sovereignty over all things and giving your burdens to him. It is praising Him in the midst of uncertainty. For many years I was a 'surviving' Christian, still attempting to work for the salvation that I was given through grace. Even though I received Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior through faith by grace alone I was still attempting to 'be good enough' and always failing. The weight of this was too heavy for me and prevented me from living a life that thrives in the love and grace that was given to me. I was deceived. The thief (satan) was stealing my joy and destroying the hope of Christ within me.
It seems absurd now but I think many Christians live under this umbrella of working for salvation that was freely given. I no longer feel obligated to 'work' for my salvation. I now freely accept the gift of God and desire to share that gift with others. I can truly love God and others. I'm no longer surviving....I'm thriving in the grace and mercy of my Lord and Savior.
I pray that if you have been like me, attempting to work out your salvation rather than accepting it as God intended that you would come before God and give it to Him. There is such an immense freedom and love that comes from truly resting in God's grace.
There are so many things in this world that can take our focus away from God. Having a prominent status, financial wealth, etc. are not bad in and of themselves. It is when we put them before God. God does not share His glory. The first commandment found in Exodus 20:3 says, You shall have no other gods before Me. You may think of the golden calf the Israelites created, but today, that golden calf may look like a job, kids' sports activities, a car, a house--anything that is placed before your worship of a Holy God. God calls us to an intimiate relationship with him. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. James 4:8
Did you know that God is jealous? Deteronomy 4:24 says, "For the LORD your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God.
Surviving is living with the weight of your sin, burdened by this world and trying to make it through on your own. It is attempting to 'work' for your salvation; still trying to be 'good enough'. Thriving is acknowledging God's sovereignty over all things and giving your burdens to him. It is praising Him in the midst of uncertainty. For many years I was a 'surviving' Christian, still attempting to work for the salvation that I was given through grace. Even though I received Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior through faith by grace alone I was still attempting to 'be good enough' and always failing. The weight of this was too heavy for me and prevented me from living a life that thrives in the love and grace that was given to me. I was deceived. The thief (satan) was stealing my joy and destroying the hope of Christ within me.
It seems absurd now but I think many Christians live under this umbrella of working for salvation that was freely given. I no longer feel obligated to 'work' for my salvation. I now freely accept the gift of God and desire to share that gift with others. I can truly love God and others. I'm no longer surviving....I'm thriving in the grace and mercy of my Lord and Savior.
I pray that if you have been like me, attempting to work out your salvation rather than accepting it as God intended that you would come before God and give it to Him. There is such an immense freedom and love that comes from truly resting in God's grace.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
What is Love?
When you read the title did your head start bobbing and the song start playing in your head? There are so many songs written about love. I would guess there are thousands of love songs written over the years---there are many written in God's Word. In the New International Version (1984) Love is referenced 698 times. Wow! In today's society the word love is taken way too lightly. I think most of us truly don't understand what love really means. I did a search to define love and it was interesting to read the varied definitions. Most of the definitions described love as 'strong predilection, enthusiasm, or liking for anything'. Love was actually used to define itself in several of the definitions too. It is such a complex word with such depth that its' full comprehension is difficult to grasp. Sadly, it is used way too casually in our society. We speak of loving everything (myself included).
Deuteronomy 6:5 says Love the Lord your God with all of your heart, with all of your soul and with all of your strength. And then in Matthew 22:37-38 Jesus replied, 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. God considered this the first and greatest commandment. With such significance on the subject shouldn't we attempt to better understand it?
The best way to begin to understand love is to start with John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." If you've accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior you know this verse but let's take a look at it. God's love provided His Son as a sacrifice so that we could share a life with Him. Love is sacrificial. Not one definition I found describes love as sacrificial yet that is exactly what love is--no wonder we use it so casually, we don't understand it.
Romans 5:8 says, But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Back to Matthew 22, in verse 39 Jesus says, "And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself." Now Jesus tells us to love others like ourselves. It's interesting but no one has to tell us to love ourselves--we do this naturally. We have a bent on putting ourselves first - selfish desires, wants, etc. I firmly believe one of the reasons for so many divorces (inside of the church and outside of it) is because each person puts their desires above their spouses. According to Christ you are to put others first, i.e. your spouse.
My best friend was married a few weeks ago and it was a great ceremony but have you ever truly listened to the vows? When the rings are exchanged you hear, "love and honor in sickness and in health, in poverty or in wealth, 'til death do us part." This is a commitment to love in good times and bad. The reality is we don't comprehend the covenant that we make with another person. We must first fully love God, our Creator, before we can even begin to think about loving another person. Truth be told, we are incapable of loving another person on our own without Christ as they will fail us or disappoint us at some point. Only when we rest in the full assurance of the sacrificial love of our Savior Jesus Christ can we experience love with another human being.
For all of my married friends out there I pray that you would seek to love your spouse sacrificially and put them before yourself. For my single friends, love the Lord with everything you have and pour out His love on all that you encounter.
Desiring to love deeply and sacrificially from this day forward.
Deuteronomy 6:5 says Love the Lord your God with all of your heart, with all of your soul and with all of your strength. And then in Matthew 22:37-38 Jesus replied, 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. God considered this the first and greatest commandment. With such significance on the subject shouldn't we attempt to better understand it?
The best way to begin to understand love is to start with John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." If you've accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior you know this verse but let's take a look at it. God's love provided His Son as a sacrifice so that we could share a life with Him. Love is sacrificial. Not one definition I found describes love as sacrificial yet that is exactly what love is--no wonder we use it so casually, we don't understand it.
Romans 5:8 says, But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Back to Matthew 22, in verse 39 Jesus says, "And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself." Now Jesus tells us to love others like ourselves. It's interesting but no one has to tell us to love ourselves--we do this naturally. We have a bent on putting ourselves first - selfish desires, wants, etc. I firmly believe one of the reasons for so many divorces (inside of the church and outside of it) is because each person puts their desires above their spouses. According to Christ you are to put others first, i.e. your spouse.
My best friend was married a few weeks ago and it was a great ceremony but have you ever truly listened to the vows? When the rings are exchanged you hear, "love and honor in sickness and in health, in poverty or in wealth, 'til death do us part." This is a commitment to love in good times and bad. The reality is we don't comprehend the covenant that we make with another person. We must first fully love God, our Creator, before we can even begin to think about loving another person. Truth be told, we are incapable of loving another person on our own without Christ as they will fail us or disappoint us at some point. Only when we rest in the full assurance of the sacrificial love of our Savior Jesus Christ can we experience love with another human being.
For all of my married friends out there I pray that you would seek to love your spouse sacrificially and put them before yourself. For my single friends, love the Lord with everything you have and pour out His love on all that you encounter.
Desiring to love deeply and sacrificially from this day forward.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Woman Undone
What does it mean to be undone? As I find myself getting older I've also noticed there is a lot of excess (baggage) that I carry around with me. Past sins, failures, etc. are all part of this baggage. Until we surrender all of those things to God's authority we are bound to them.
This is a little long but read Romans 7:15-25 I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. 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. For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it. So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me. For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members. What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord!
Wow! Did that sound confusing? What it boils down to is the fact that we all have a sinful body and no matter what we do it will never be good enough. After becoming a Christian, we now have the Holy Spirit living inside us to help lead and guide us. And then, we still have the sinful nature within us.
“Woe to you Pharisees, because you give God a tenth of your mint, rue and all other kinds of garden herbs, but you neglect justice and the love of God. You should have practiced the latter without leaving the former undone. Luke 11:42
This is a little long but read Romans 7:15-25 I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. 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. For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it. So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me. For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members. What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord!
Wow! Did that sound confusing? What it boils down to is the fact that we all have a sinful body and no matter what we do it will never be good enough. After becoming a Christian, we now have the Holy Spirit living inside us to help lead and guide us. And then, we still have the sinful nature within us.
“Woe to you Pharisees, because you give God a tenth of your mint, rue and all other kinds of garden herbs, but you neglect justice and the love of God. You should have practiced the latter without leaving the former undone. Luke 11:42
Eulogy--Your Days Are Numbered
I pass by a funeral home on my way home from work almost every day. I will occassionally see the parking lot full of vehicles. Several years ago I was led to pray for the family members and friends that were at the funeral home grieving their loss. It has become a practice of mine when I see the parking lot full to pray for those mourning and that through such loss they would come to know Christ and be comforted through Him.
I've been reading a new book and it discussed eulogys. For the most part, we do not think about writing these until we've lost someone close, but have you ever thought about your own eulogy? Seriously, what would people say about you? Would they have a hard time coming up with things because you don't open yourself up to others? Were you kind? Did you give to others? What is the legacy you will leave behind?
Did you know that we are dying everyday? I don't mean this in a morbid sense but the reality is we will all die and our days are numbered. Psalm 139:16 says, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. What if we lived each day as if it were our very last? Where would your priorities be for the day? With Jesus as my Lord and Savior I do not fear death however, I do pray that God would not take me from this life before I've completed the purpose that He created me for. We were all created to glorify God but He also created us for specific assignments here on earth. Does your life reflect God's love and mercy? Ephesians 4:1 Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, If you know Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, does your life reflect it?
We as a society like to plan, to take control of our lives but fail to recognize that we have very little control. James 4:14 says, Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away. All of the education you have received, the money you've earned, the status/title at work, none of this will mean anything to anyone 100 years from now. If our life is but a vapor and we were created for a purpose don't you want to leave a legacy that leaves a huge impact? Me too.
The truth of the matter is that the only thing that will make a difference in this life AND the next, is how many souls (people) you will bring with you to glory. Ultimately, that's the legacy that lasts beyond a lifetime.
Do your best to share what Christ has done for you with at least one person this week. He is worthy and we should be honored to be the messengers. According to Matthew 28:19-20 says, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” -- we are all commanded to go share.
I've been reading a new book and it discussed eulogys. For the most part, we do not think about writing these until we've lost someone close, but have you ever thought about your own eulogy? Seriously, what would people say about you? Would they have a hard time coming up with things because you don't open yourself up to others? Were you kind? Did you give to others? What is the legacy you will leave behind?
Did you know that we are dying everyday? I don't mean this in a morbid sense but the reality is we will all die and our days are numbered. Psalm 139:16 says, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. What if we lived each day as if it were our very last? Where would your priorities be for the day? With Jesus as my Lord and Savior I do not fear death however, I do pray that God would not take me from this life before I've completed the purpose that He created me for. We were all created to glorify God but He also created us for specific assignments here on earth. Does your life reflect God's love and mercy? Ephesians 4:1 Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, If you know Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior, does your life reflect it?
We as a society like to plan, to take control of our lives but fail to recognize that we have very little control. James 4:14 says, Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away. All of the education you have received, the money you've earned, the status/title at work, none of this will mean anything to anyone 100 years from now. If our life is but a vapor and we were created for a purpose don't you want to leave a legacy that leaves a huge impact? Me too.
The truth of the matter is that the only thing that will make a difference in this life AND the next, is how many souls (people) you will bring with you to glory. Ultimately, that's the legacy that lasts beyond a lifetime.
Do your best to share what Christ has done for you with at least one person this week. He is worthy and we should be honored to be the messengers. According to Matthew 28:19-20 says, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” -- we are all commanded to go share.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Friends
I am very privileged and blessed to have so many wonderful friends. I've had an active weekend with different groups of friends. I had the joy of celebrating with friends who were celebrating 5 years of marriage. I spent time with a new group of friends in Chappel Hill--these are friends that I won't see very often. As I think back over the years I've had an incredible group of friends. I looked over pictures with fond memories of how special these people are to me.
Friendships run deep. They minister to us in a special way. Consider Job's three friends in Job 2:10-12 When Job’s three friends, Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite, heard about all the troubles that had come upon him, they set out from their homes and met together by agreement to go and sympathize with him and comfort him. When they saw him from a distance, they could hardly recognize him; they began to weep aloud, and they tore their robes and sprinkled dust on their heads.
His friends felt his pain and mourned with him. Proverbs 17:17 says A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. True friends love you enough to weep with you, to dance for joy with you and have the courage to rebuke you when you need it. I'm grateful that I have friends that will come along side me when I am in a rut or about to make a bad choice and will confront me. I like how it is described in
Ecclessiates 4:10 If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!
Look at Luke 5- the story of the paralytic. Take the time to read the story. The paralytic had friends that were determined to get him to see Jesus so that he would be healed. When they could not get into the house where Jesus was they took there friend to the roof and lowered him down verse 20 says, When Jesus saw their faith, he said, “Friend, your sins are forgiven.” What dedicated friends!
Thank you Lord for giving me so many wonderful friends! Lord I pray you would bless each one of my friends with your super natural power and authority as they begin their work week!
Friendships run deep. They minister to us in a special way. Consider Job's three friends in Job 2:10-12 When Job’s three friends, Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite, heard about all the troubles that had come upon him, they set out from their homes and met together by agreement to go and sympathize with him and comfort him. When they saw him from a distance, they could hardly recognize him; they began to weep aloud, and they tore their robes and sprinkled dust on their heads.
His friends felt his pain and mourned with him. Proverbs 17:17 says A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. True friends love you enough to weep with you, to dance for joy with you and have the courage to rebuke you when you need it. I'm grateful that I have friends that will come along side me when I am in a rut or about to make a bad choice and will confront me. I like how it is described in
Ecclessiates 4:10 If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!
Look at Luke 5- the story of the paralytic. Take the time to read the story. The paralytic had friends that were determined to get him to see Jesus so that he would be healed. When they could not get into the house where Jesus was they took there friend to the roof and lowered him down verse 20 says, When Jesus saw their faith, he said, “Friend, your sins are forgiven.” What dedicated friends!
Thank you Lord for giving me so many wonderful friends! Lord I pray you would bless each one of my friends with your super natural power and authority as they begin their work week!
Living A Life of ALL
ALL--very small word in the english language but used quite a bit. Depending on which translation you use, each one has the word all over four thousand times--some almost five thousand. That's a lot! I realize we are all educated but thought I would just reference the meaning. All is a word that is used as a quantifier; representing something in its entirety. Simple enough but God chose to use it over four thousand times in His Word.
First thing that comes to mind for me is Deteronomy 6:5 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. God's command is to love Him with every fiber of our being. It's a significant command and Jesus quoted it in Matthew 22:37. And in Mark 12:30 He goes a step further, Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’
As my walls have started coming down that I built many years ago I can now see that I was not loving the Lord with all my heart, soul, mind and strength. You can only do this by humbly submitting every area of your life over to Christ. This is includes past hurt and pain. Only then can He truly do His best work in you. Ezekial 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'm counting on God to do this for me. I no longer want the heart of stone.
One of my favorite chapters in Psalm is 51--verse 10 says, Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
I pray that you would choose to live a life of ALL today by giving Christ all your heart, mind, soul and strength.
First thing that comes to mind for me is Deteronomy 6:5 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. God's command is to love Him with every fiber of our being. It's a significant command and Jesus quoted it in Matthew 22:37. And in Mark 12:30 He goes a step further, Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’
As my walls have started coming down that I built many years ago I can now see that I was not loving the Lord with all my heart, soul, mind and strength. You can only do this by humbly submitting every area of your life over to Christ. This is includes past hurt and pain. Only then can He truly do His best work in you. Ezekial 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'm counting on God to do this for me. I no longer want the heart of stone.
One of my favorite chapters in Psalm is 51--verse 10 says, Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
I pray that you would choose to live a life of ALL today by giving Christ all your heart, mind, soul and strength.
Friday, April 1, 2011
Accepting Discipline
No one likes discipline (at least not anyone I've ever met) myself included . In our culture discipline has a negative connotation but discipline is simply described as training that corrects or molds. As individuals, we require discipline throughout our lifetimes. We must also become disciplined in both body and soul--physical and spiritual aspects. Discipline requires balance and is learned--it is not a natural response.
As a parent, disciplining is a necessary part of the job but I never liked to do it. I always thought it was the dad's job to discipline. That would work great except there was no dad in our household. I was the mom & dad. I read Proverbs 13:25, He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is careful to discipline him. And Proverbs 19:18 "Discipline your son, for in that there is hope; do not be a willing party to his death." I learned to discipline because I loved my daughter.
This process of disciplining my daughter helped me to better understand God's discipline of me. Deuteronomy 8:5 tells us, "Know then in your heart that as a man disciplines his son, so the Lord your God disciplines you." And Hebrews 12:10-11, Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
Did you catch that? He disciplines us for our own good (which is what we do for our kids) BUT on top of that, we get to share in His holiness. Let that rest on you for a minute. All the struggles, the wrong turns, the sin--ALL of it (once repented and corrected of course) allows us to share in God's holiness. He is so marvelous. Even though He disciplines us, in the end He rewards us for turning back to Him and receiving His correction--incomprehensible!!! "Blessed is the man whom God corrects; so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty." Job 15:7 Revelation 3:19 says, "Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent."
Proverbs has alot to say about discipline--here are just a few-- Proverbs 12:1, Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid. Proverbs 10: 17 He who heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray. Proverbs 5:23, He will die for lack of discipline, led astray by his own great folly.
May you find gladness in your discipline from the Lord--I know I will!
As a parent, disciplining is a necessary part of the job but I never liked to do it. I always thought it was the dad's job to discipline. That would work great except there was no dad in our household. I was the mom & dad. I read Proverbs 13:25, He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is careful to discipline him. And Proverbs 19:18 "Discipline your son, for in that there is hope; do not be a willing party to his death." I learned to discipline because I loved my daughter.
This process of disciplining my daughter helped me to better understand God's discipline of me. Deuteronomy 8:5 tells us, "Know then in your heart that as a man disciplines his son, so the Lord your God disciplines you." And Hebrews 12:10-11, Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
Did you catch that? He disciplines us for our own good (which is what we do for our kids) BUT on top of that, we get to share in His holiness. Let that rest on you for a minute. All the struggles, the wrong turns, the sin--ALL of it (once repented and corrected of course) allows us to share in God's holiness. He is so marvelous. Even though He disciplines us, in the end He rewards us for turning back to Him and receiving His correction--incomprehensible!!! "Blessed is the man whom God corrects; so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty." Job 15:7 Revelation 3:19 says, "Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent."
Proverbs has alot to say about discipline--here are just a few-- Proverbs 12:1, Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates correction is stupid. Proverbs 10: 17 He who heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray. Proverbs 5:23, He will die for lack of discipline, led astray by his own great folly.
May you find gladness in your discipline from the Lord--I know I will!
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