Numbers 14:2-9 (Click on reference to read text)
The 40+ years that Israel spent wandering around the dessert was full of ups and downs. They had seen God do amazing things: part the Red Sea, bring water from a rock, feed them from the Heavens, and many more. The Bible even says that their shoes and clothes did not even wear out (Deut 29:5)... after 40+ years! That in itself is a miracle. Yet, despite all of these great acts of God, they struggled with their faith. Fear crept in and then Faith walked out.
After hearing the report of the 12 spies, the Israelites begin to grumble. The became afraid of the overwhelming task of conquering the promised land. They went so far as to say "let us appoint a leader and return to Egypt" (vs. 4). This was absurd! They began to see the very place where they were enslaved as the Promised Land. It can happen to us!
Fear drives you to bondage! You begin to think the present circumstances you find yourself in is just too hard. You begin to romanticize the past and remember it a lot better than it actually was, and if you are not careful, will convince yourself to return to a life of enslavement.... a life apart from the complete indwelling and control of the Holy Spirit. Be Aware!
Fear may drive you to bondage, but Faith drives you to blessing!! Joshua and Caleb, who were also apart of the 12 spies, tell a different story. They choose to believe the promise of their God and keep moving foward! They speak in faith, "If the Lord is pleased with us, then HE will bring us into this land and give it to us- a land which flows with milk and honey... Do not fear the people of the land, for they will be our prey. Their protection has been removed from them, and the Lord is with us; do not fear them" (vs. 8-9). Obstacles, no matter how large, disappear when you are standing with the Great God of the Universe. God always keeps His promises! It may not always be easy, but the Promised Land is worth it!
Are you living in Fear or Faith? Do you find yourself hesitant to continue in the way God has called you? Are you romanticizing the past and wishing things could go back, before you stepped out in faith? Make sure you are not making decisions out of Fear! The Bible warns us to, "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland (Isaiah 43:16-19). Walk by faith!
Showing posts with label Discouragement. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Discouragement. Show all posts
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Faithful in the Silence...
Exodus 31 and 32:1-10 (Click on reference to read text)
Moses found himself on the mountain top with God receiving detailed instructions about Israel and Aaron's priestly line. Aaron was in the valley alone. He had been called by God too. He had been used by God. Yet while God was unfolding His plans to Moses, Aaron was surrounded by silence, except the voices of the Israelites saying, "Come, make us a god who will go before us; as for this Moses, the man who brought us up from the land of Egypt, we do not know what has become of him" (Ex 32:2). How did Aaron so quickly forget and abandon His walk with God and create an idol to worship? How do we so quickly do the same thing?
Sometimes we can become so immersed in our circumstances, what we can physically see, that we forget God is still moving and working. He is working out a plan, a plan that may involve you, yet you don't know about it yet. The question is are you, am I, going to be faithful where we are... in the silence? Just because Aaron did not hear God's detailed plans for his life and the lives of his descendants, didn't mean that God was not speaking them.
I became extremely convicted last night while at a missions festival at our church. I realized this week that I was angry... very angry at my precious Lord because of what is happening/happened in the lives of my Dads. I felt the silence of unanswered questions and great disappointment. However, when faced with the awesome global size of my God and His purpose to bring the nations to a saving knowledge of Him, I wept. I had belittled God to fit Him into the details of my life, instead of seeing my life in the details of His ETERNAL plan. I had become the clay telling the potter what to do with me (Is 29:16).
We don't know why we find ourselves in the wilderness. We don't know why sometimes God chooses to speak to others and not us. We don't know why it seems the only voices we hear are pulling us into defeat and disillusionment. However, we must cling to what we know. God is working. God is moving. God is sovereign. God is Good! He who did not spare His own Son gave us everything we need to run this race with endurance (Ro 8:32).
Time to get our eyes off of what we can see and focus them upwards. God just may be about to reveal His master plan. Don't settle for an idol... settle for a King!
"Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." Hebrews 11:1
Moses found himself on the mountain top with God receiving detailed instructions about Israel and Aaron's priestly line. Aaron was in the valley alone. He had been called by God too. He had been used by God. Yet while God was unfolding His plans to Moses, Aaron was surrounded by silence, except the voices of the Israelites saying, "Come, make us a god who will go before us; as for this Moses, the man who brought us up from the land of Egypt, we do not know what has become of him" (Ex 32:2). How did Aaron so quickly forget and abandon His walk with God and create an idol to worship? How do we so quickly do the same thing?
Sometimes we can become so immersed in our circumstances, what we can physically see, that we forget God is still moving and working. He is working out a plan, a plan that may involve you, yet you don't know about it yet. The question is are you, am I, going to be faithful where we are... in the silence? Just because Aaron did not hear God's detailed plans for his life and the lives of his descendants, didn't mean that God was not speaking them.
I became extremely convicted last night while at a missions festival at our church. I realized this week that I was angry... very angry at my precious Lord because of what is happening/happened in the lives of my Dads. I felt the silence of unanswered questions and great disappointment. However, when faced with the awesome global size of my God and His purpose to bring the nations to a saving knowledge of Him, I wept. I had belittled God to fit Him into the details of my life, instead of seeing my life in the details of His ETERNAL plan. I had become the clay telling the potter what to do with me (Is 29:16).
We don't know why we find ourselves in the wilderness. We don't know why sometimes God chooses to speak to others and not us. We don't know why it seems the only voices we hear are pulling us into defeat and disillusionment. However, we must cling to what we know. God is working. God is moving. God is sovereign. God is Good! He who did not spare His own Son gave us everything we need to run this race with endurance (Ro 8:32).
Time to get our eyes off of what we can see and focus them upwards. God just may be about to reveal His master plan. Don't settle for an idol... settle for a King!
"Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." Hebrews 11:1
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
How Do You Pray in the Pain?
2 Samuel 12:13-20 (Click on reference to read text)
Sorry for the long absence. My family received extremely difficult news at the beginning of this month. My precious Dad-in-law was diagnosed with cancer in his bone marrow. One night while praying my husband turned to me and confessed he didn't know how to pray. We would obviously love to see our Dad healed, but what if it is not God's will? How do you pray for a miracle and still pray according to the Lord's will? Maybe you have had this same thought. After much prayer and seeking Scriptures, I feel confident the Lord has given me a Biblical answer.
When David's son was dying, David fasted and prayed for a miracle. He didn't eat, he didn't sleep. For seven days David laid face down begging the Lord to heal his child. Yet when the child died, he got up, worshiped the Lord and ate. He prayed for God to heal his child, but he accepted what God allowed.
I also read about Paul. Paul prayed 3 times for the "tormenting thorn in his flesh" to leave, yet he accepted God's grace to persevere when God did not remove it (2 Cor 12:7-10). He was not afraid to ask God for relief, but His faith was not shaken when God answered no.
The Disciplers Bible Study Commentary for the book of Acts states, " They...were putting God to the test. They were questioning God after His will had been revealed."
I truly believe it is Biblical to ask the Lord for healing, restoration, or whatever is needed in the lives of your family or yourself. After all, God is our Heavenly Father and desires to hear our hearts cry. However, we must not put God to the test by questioning God after He reveals His will by either answering or denying our request. We must choose to follow David's lead, offer a sacrifice of praise in the midst of our pain. Praising God in the pain is not easy, but it is necessary in keeping our hearts stayed on Him (Heb 13:15).
I urge you... pray! Pour your heart out to your Heavenly Father. Ask to see the mighty movements of His hand. Expect to see His power displayed. However, resolve now to believe that God is good no matter His answer. Turn to Him whether the outcome is wonderful or painful, and know that in the tears, you are not alone!
"The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Ps 34:18
Sorry for the long absence. My family received extremely difficult news at the beginning of this month. My precious Dad-in-law was diagnosed with cancer in his bone marrow. One night while praying my husband turned to me and confessed he didn't know how to pray. We would obviously love to see our Dad healed, but what if it is not God's will? How do you pray for a miracle and still pray according to the Lord's will? Maybe you have had this same thought. After much prayer and seeking Scriptures, I feel confident the Lord has given me a Biblical answer.
When David's son was dying, David fasted and prayed for a miracle. He didn't eat, he didn't sleep. For seven days David laid face down begging the Lord to heal his child. Yet when the child died, he got up, worshiped the Lord and ate. He prayed for God to heal his child, but he accepted what God allowed.
I also read about Paul. Paul prayed 3 times for the "tormenting thorn in his flesh" to leave, yet he accepted God's grace to persevere when God did not remove it (2 Cor 12:7-10). He was not afraid to ask God for relief, but His faith was not shaken when God answered no.
The Disciplers Bible Study Commentary for the book of Acts states, " They...were putting God to the test. They were questioning God after His will had been revealed."
I truly believe it is Biblical to ask the Lord for healing, restoration, or whatever is needed in the lives of your family or yourself. After all, God is our Heavenly Father and desires to hear our hearts cry. However, we must not put God to the test by questioning God after He reveals His will by either answering or denying our request. We must choose to follow David's lead, offer a sacrifice of praise in the midst of our pain. Praising God in the pain is not easy, but it is necessary in keeping our hearts stayed on Him (Heb 13:15).
I urge you... pray! Pour your heart out to your Heavenly Father. Ask to see the mighty movements of His hand. Expect to see His power displayed. However, resolve now to believe that God is good no matter His answer. Turn to Him whether the outcome is wonderful or painful, and know that in the tears, you are not alone!
"The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Ps 34:18
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Are You Home for Christmas?
Psalm 90
I was listening to Christmas music on the radio, baking way too many Christmas goodies, and the song "I'll be Home for Christmas" came on. My heart instantly dipped as a tear slipped down my cheek. Two years ago, on Christmas Eve night, I received the call no one wants to get. My hero Daddy had passed away. "Home" is different than it used to be and I can't help but feel the pain. My blessings overflow, little feet and lots of laughter fill my home, yet part of me is empty. Maybe "home" is different for you too. You may be across the world serving our Lord while family is in the States, maybe divorce has ripped your happy memories apart, or maybe dreams are unfulfilled and unrealized for one more year. However, in the midst of our pain, our Lord has a sweet word to mend our broken hearts.
Psalm 90 was written by Moses. A man who spent a total of 80 years in the dessert, a nomad for our Lord. His life was probably not like he pictured, yet he was obeying God's call on his life. Even though he was in essence homeless, he writes, "Lord, You have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were born or you gave birth to the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting you are God."
The Lord was Moses's home. You know what? He is my home too. He in all His fullness invites you to come home! The word "home" may look and feel different. We can either dwell on feelings or in the fact that our Lord is our dwelling place. Although it was Christmas time when I lost my loved one, it is because of Christmas, Jesus coming to earth in the form of a baby and dying as a sacrifice for my sins, that I can see my loved one again. Christmas is not a time for sorrow, even in death, it is a time of great rejoicing. Christmas is not a time of loneliness, because of Christmas, we received a companion that will never leave... Emmanuel!
This Christmas, come home to your Savior. Rest in His dwelling place. Feel the fullness of His presence. Breathe in His unquenching joy and peace. He is waiting with arms open wide to welcome you home.
I was listening to Christmas music on the radio, baking way too many Christmas goodies, and the song "I'll be Home for Christmas" came on. My heart instantly dipped as a tear slipped down my cheek. Two years ago, on Christmas Eve night, I received the call no one wants to get. My hero Daddy had passed away. "Home" is different than it used to be and I can't help but feel the pain. My blessings overflow, little feet and lots of laughter fill my home, yet part of me is empty. Maybe "home" is different for you too. You may be across the world serving our Lord while family is in the States, maybe divorce has ripped your happy memories apart, or maybe dreams are unfulfilled and unrealized for one more year. However, in the midst of our pain, our Lord has a sweet word to mend our broken hearts.
Psalm 90 was written by Moses. A man who spent a total of 80 years in the dessert, a nomad for our Lord. His life was probably not like he pictured, yet he was obeying God's call on his life. Even though he was in essence homeless, he writes, "Lord, You have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were born or you gave birth to the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting you are God."
The Lord was Moses's home. You know what? He is my home too. He in all His fullness invites you to come home! The word "home" may look and feel different. We can either dwell on feelings or in the fact that our Lord is our dwelling place. Although it was Christmas time when I lost my loved one, it is because of Christmas, Jesus coming to earth in the form of a baby and dying as a sacrifice for my sins, that I can see my loved one again. Christmas is not a time for sorrow, even in death, it is a time of great rejoicing. Christmas is not a time of loneliness, because of Christmas, we received a companion that will never leave... Emmanuel!
This Christmas, come home to your Savior. Rest in His dwelling place. Feel the fullness of His presence. Breathe in His unquenching joy and peace. He is waiting with arms open wide to welcome you home.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Throw Off Everything that Hinders...
Hebrews 12:1-3
"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, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. "
The text is too important to skip over. Sorry for my absence. I have found myself entangled for the past month, and it wasn't until this morning that I have broken Gloriously free. This time of year is hard for me. Very hard. Two years ago this Christmas Eve my Daddy passed away suddenly, doing what He loved the most... he had just finished writing his first sermon for Zion Baptist Church. My heart has been weighted down with grief since his birthday in October. I have faked being okay well, except probably for the people who walk daily with me through life. Yet I have handled my emotional drain completely the wrong way.
I have spent the past two months being busy with anything and everything I can imagine. My feet ran from the second they hit the floor to the time I collapsed exhausted into bed at night. Most have been good things, things for the church and my family. A few not great things (let's just say for a girl who hates shopping, I shopped a little too much last month). I had created an impossible to do list, and I was actually accomplishing it. I looked pretty good on the outside. But I was wrong.
I was running a race that was not marked out for me. My eyes were not fixed on Jesus, but on my to do list and whatever I could do to make my church and family happy. Hebrews said that Jesus endured the cross for me and I was giving him my time, but NOT what He wants most of all... my heart. You see, I didn't have time to "Cease Striving and Know that He is God" (Psalm 46:10)
Galatians 3:1-3 contains a harsh rebuke for the church. Paul is blasting them for believing that they must win over Christ's love and salvation through works. He asked them, "Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law or by hearing with faith? Are you so foolish? Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh?" We don't please God through our many works, we please Him through our faith in Jesus Christ. He is most happy when we obey the greatest of all commandments, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind" (Matthews 22:35-37).
Paul clarifies the relationship between faith that is pleasing to God and works we are to do for Him in Ephesians: "We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them" (2:10). We are to "do" things for Him, but ONLY what He has prepared for us before the foundation of the world. When you are seeking Him, you don't have to take on everything, but just what HE tells you to do.
Do you feel burdened by life? Are you exhausted? Have you "grown weary and lost heart"? Maybe you are doing things that the Lord had not set out for you to do. He doesn't want tired bodies, but sold out hearts. Join with me in praying every morning, "Lord, I just want to do what you have prepared for me in advance today. I don't want to add anything more or do anything less. Please give me discernment to walk in You path for me, grant me courage to obey the leading of your voice, may you be glorified in everything I say do and speak. My time is yours. My family is yours. My heart is yours. In Jesus's Name I pray, Amen."
"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, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. "
The text is too important to skip over. Sorry for my absence. I have found myself entangled for the past month, and it wasn't until this morning that I have broken Gloriously free. This time of year is hard for me. Very hard. Two years ago this Christmas Eve my Daddy passed away suddenly, doing what He loved the most... he had just finished writing his first sermon for Zion Baptist Church. My heart has been weighted down with grief since his birthday in October. I have faked being okay well, except probably for the people who walk daily with me through life. Yet I have handled my emotional drain completely the wrong way.
I have spent the past two months being busy with anything and everything I can imagine. My feet ran from the second they hit the floor to the time I collapsed exhausted into bed at night. Most have been good things, things for the church and my family. A few not great things (let's just say for a girl who hates shopping, I shopped a little too much last month). I had created an impossible to do list, and I was actually accomplishing it. I looked pretty good on the outside. But I was wrong.
I was running a race that was not marked out for me. My eyes were not fixed on Jesus, but on my to do list and whatever I could do to make my church and family happy. Hebrews said that Jesus endured the cross for me and I was giving him my time, but NOT what He wants most of all... my heart. You see, I didn't have time to "Cease Striving and Know that He is God" (Psalm 46:10)
Galatians 3:1-3 contains a harsh rebuke for the church. Paul is blasting them for believing that they must win over Christ's love and salvation through works. He asked them, "Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law or by hearing with faith? Are you so foolish? Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh?" We don't please God through our many works, we please Him through our faith in Jesus Christ. He is most happy when we obey the greatest of all commandments, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind" (Matthews 22:35-37).
Paul clarifies the relationship between faith that is pleasing to God and works we are to do for Him in Ephesians: "We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them" (2:10). We are to "do" things for Him, but ONLY what He has prepared for us before the foundation of the world. When you are seeking Him, you don't have to take on everything, but just what HE tells you to do.
Do you feel burdened by life? Are you exhausted? Have you "grown weary and lost heart"? Maybe you are doing things that the Lord had not set out for you to do. He doesn't want tired bodies, but sold out hearts. Join with me in praying every morning, "Lord, I just want to do what you have prepared for me in advance today. I don't want to add anything more or do anything less. Please give me discernment to walk in You path for me, grant me courage to obey the leading of your voice, may you be glorified in everything I say do and speak. My time is yours. My family is yours. My heart is yours. In Jesus's Name I pray, Amen."
Saturday, November 12, 2011
He Calls Me by Name...
Acts 10:1-8 (click on reference to read text)
I read this passage this morning and it brought me to tears. I am Cornelius. I am a Gentile that doesn't always understand exactly who God is, how He works, or who He came to save... yet the great God calls me by name as I call out to Him! WOW!
First, in Cornelius, we see God honors a searching heart. Cornelius prayed to God continually (vs 2). When we want to receive a Word from the Lord, when we need a touch of encouragement, or when we are wondering which way to go, what do we do about it? Do we call our friends, read Inspirational Non Fiction to seek advice, or simply try harder? If we want to hear from God we must be willing to be in communion with God. Just like Cornelius, when you are calling out to God, He calls you by name (vs 3)! Don't expect God to speak to you if you don't speak to Him.
Secondly, in Cornelius, we see God honors an honest heart. Cornelius was not a Jew, but He knew their God was the One True God. He prayed and gave offerings, even when he didn't fully understand or was fully accepted. Yet God knew the condition of His heart, and He "rewards those who earnestly seek Him" (Hebrews 11:6). God knows your heart. He knows your motives. He knows if you are truly seeking His face, and when you are, then rest knowing He is seeking you too (vs 3-4)!
Finally, in Cornelius, we see God honors an obedient heart. The Lord gave Cornelius detailed instructions on what he was to do next. God wanted to reveal Himself to Cornelius, but He also wanted to do a work in Peter's life as well (Acts 10). God will answer prayers that are crying out to know Him more. However, sometimes He will use others to accomplish that purpose in your life. God was working in two people's lives that day: Cornelius and Peter. We must be willing to accept God's answer to prayer even when it comes through means we might not normally expect. Obey what God is asking you to do and trust the results to him!
I love the story of Cornelius, because this is my spiritual legacy. I am a Gentile with no inheritance to the promised land, but whom God had mercy on and adopted into His family, allowing me too to call Him "Abba Father" (Romans 8:14-16). When I earnestly seek Him and call out to Him, He will call me by name. When I seek His will with a pure heart, even if I don't fully understand, He will teach me what to do. When I obey Him immediately, He will show me the next step in my walk with Him. Thank you Jesus, that your salvation is for me too (Acts 28:28), may my heart honor and please you.
I read this passage this morning and it brought me to tears. I am Cornelius. I am a Gentile that doesn't always understand exactly who God is, how He works, or who He came to save... yet the great God calls me by name as I call out to Him! WOW!
First, in Cornelius, we see God honors a searching heart. Cornelius prayed to God continually (vs 2). When we want to receive a Word from the Lord, when we need a touch of encouragement, or when we are wondering which way to go, what do we do about it? Do we call our friends, read Inspirational Non Fiction to seek advice, or simply try harder? If we want to hear from God we must be willing to be in communion with God. Just like Cornelius, when you are calling out to God, He calls you by name (vs 3)! Don't expect God to speak to you if you don't speak to Him.
Secondly, in Cornelius, we see God honors an honest heart. Cornelius was not a Jew, but He knew their God was the One True God. He prayed and gave offerings, even when he didn't fully understand or was fully accepted. Yet God knew the condition of His heart, and He "rewards those who earnestly seek Him" (Hebrews 11:6). God knows your heart. He knows your motives. He knows if you are truly seeking His face, and when you are, then rest knowing He is seeking you too (vs 3-4)!
Finally, in Cornelius, we see God honors an obedient heart. The Lord gave Cornelius detailed instructions on what he was to do next. God wanted to reveal Himself to Cornelius, but He also wanted to do a work in Peter's life as well (Acts 10). God will answer prayers that are crying out to know Him more. However, sometimes He will use others to accomplish that purpose in your life. God was working in two people's lives that day: Cornelius and Peter. We must be willing to accept God's answer to prayer even when it comes through means we might not normally expect. Obey what God is asking you to do and trust the results to him!
I love the story of Cornelius, because this is my spiritual legacy. I am a Gentile with no inheritance to the promised land, but whom God had mercy on and adopted into His family, allowing me too to call Him "Abba Father" (Romans 8:14-16). When I earnestly seek Him and call out to Him, He will call me by name. When I seek His will with a pure heart, even if I don't fully understand, He will teach me what to do. When I obey Him immediately, He will show me the next step in my walk with Him. Thank you Jesus, that your salvation is for me too (Acts 28:28), may my heart honor and please you.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Whose Applause are You Listening For?
Acts 8 (Click on reference to read text - I know it is a long one today, but it was important to have proper context!)
Philip obeyed the Lord. He faithfully fed the widows and served in a seemingly menial task (Acts 6:1-6). When persecution in Jerusalem came, he went to Samaria to preach the good news. He saw great revival spring up and even the town's "sorcerer" believed and was baptized. Then Peter and John came down from Jerusalem. Although they confirmed his ministry and witnessed the many added to the church, they also discovered that "Simon the sorcerer" probably wasn't a believer after all. Philip could have become embarrassed, he could have felt like a failure and ceased spreading the good news, he could have given up, but he didn't. He was not concerned about the applause of men. He was only living for the applause of God.
There are times, at least in my own life, that when disappointments happen, we take it personally. We become embarrassed by the behavior of others under our leadership and view it as a reflection upon us and our leadership abilities. We begin to believe that there must be something inherently wrong with us. However, even Jesus, the greatest leader of all time, watched someone close to him (Judas) choose sin instead of eternal life.
Philip realized an important truth: we are responsible to be obedient to what God has called us to do, and then we must leave the rest up to God. We are not responsible for the actions or disbelief of others under our lead (although we do have a responsibility before God to point it out and give them a choice to repent and follow God - Matt 18:15-17). Instead of being bogged down by the disbelief and wrong motives of Simon the Sorcerer, Philip listened to the promptings of God and immediately followed God's next assignment (Acts 8:26-30).
We too can learn a valuable lesson from this humble Christ follower. Philip didn't let his "failures" or the failures of others hinder his effectiveness for God. He listened for what God was calling him to do and he simply obeyed. People under you will not always make the right choice. They may turn their back on God, preferring sin to eternal life. Follow Philip's lead and remember, that your responsibility is you... are you obeying the voice of the Lord? They keep at it and leave the rest to Him!
Philip obeyed the Lord. He faithfully fed the widows and served in a seemingly menial task (Acts 6:1-6). When persecution in Jerusalem came, he went to Samaria to preach the good news. He saw great revival spring up and even the town's "sorcerer" believed and was baptized. Then Peter and John came down from Jerusalem. Although they confirmed his ministry and witnessed the many added to the church, they also discovered that "Simon the sorcerer" probably wasn't a believer after all. Philip could have become embarrassed, he could have felt like a failure and ceased spreading the good news, he could have given up, but he didn't. He was not concerned about the applause of men. He was only living for the applause of God.
There are times, at least in my own life, that when disappointments happen, we take it personally. We become embarrassed by the behavior of others under our leadership and view it as a reflection upon us and our leadership abilities. We begin to believe that there must be something inherently wrong with us. However, even Jesus, the greatest leader of all time, watched someone close to him (Judas) choose sin instead of eternal life.
Philip realized an important truth: we are responsible to be obedient to what God has called us to do, and then we must leave the rest up to God. We are not responsible for the actions or disbelief of others under our lead (although we do have a responsibility before God to point it out and give them a choice to repent and follow God - Matt 18:15-17). Instead of being bogged down by the disbelief and wrong motives of Simon the Sorcerer, Philip listened to the promptings of God and immediately followed God's next assignment (Acts 8:26-30).
We too can learn a valuable lesson from this humble Christ follower. Philip didn't let his "failures" or the failures of others hinder his effectiveness for God. He listened for what God was calling him to do and he simply obeyed. People under you will not always make the right choice. They may turn their back on God, preferring sin to eternal life. Follow Philip's lead and remember, that your responsibility is you... are you obeying the voice of the Lord? They keep at it and leave the rest to Him!
Saturday, October 29, 2011
But I Don't Like it...
Acts 8:1-4 (Click on reference to read text)
In Acts 1:8 the Lord gave the early church a charge, a purpose and a promise: "you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth." Sounds great right? Little did they know that they would be scattered throughout the regions because of great persecution.
We all know that when God calls us to do something, He will give us everything we need to accomplish that purpose (2 Peter 1:3, Psalm 119:105, Acts 17:25). But what if it works out differently than we thought? What if we don't like the way God goes about it? The disciples and apostles were being faithful to preach the gospel in Jerusalem. However, great persecution broke out, their homes were broken into and they were dragged off to prison. Were they experiencing hardship because they were being disobedient? No! But it forced them to leave and scatter.
This scenario was probably not how they imagined the Gospel going forth to the remotest parts of the earth... through stonings, imprisonment and martydom. However, that is the key: the Gospel still went forth. Acts 8 actually says, "Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went" (vs. 4).
God may call you to do things and you may not always like the way it turns out, or the way He accomplishes His purpose. Like Moses and Abraham, and many other "Heroes of the Faith", you may never actually see the fruition of that call, but nevertheless you played an important part if you obeyed the voice of God (Hebrews 11:13, 39-40).
Acts 8 began with the stoning of the great servant of God, Stephen. He never saw the church preach the Gospel to the remotest parts of the earth. He died at the cusp of God moving. Yet 2000 years later we see that he played a vital role in fulfilling that purpose and no believer would ever count his life worthless.
Follwer of Jesus, take heart. Sometimes things on this side of Heaven do not make sense. Sometimes we feel like death is premature. Sometimes we don't see the promises of God fulfilled and we begin to doubt His call. Don't. Stop doubting. He is always working and accomplishing His purposes, even when it doesn't make sense to us (Isaiah 46:9-10).
If you are struggling with this truth, I invite you to pray the words the conflicted father spoke to Jesus in Mark 9, "I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief."
In Acts 1:8 the Lord gave the early church a charge, a purpose and a promise: "you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth." Sounds great right? Little did they know that they would be scattered throughout the regions because of great persecution.
We all know that when God calls us to do something, He will give us everything we need to accomplish that purpose (2 Peter 1:3, Psalm 119:105, Acts 17:25). But what if it works out differently than we thought? What if we don't like the way God goes about it? The disciples and apostles were being faithful to preach the gospel in Jerusalem. However, great persecution broke out, their homes were broken into and they were dragged off to prison. Were they experiencing hardship because they were being disobedient? No! But it forced them to leave and scatter.
This scenario was probably not how they imagined the Gospel going forth to the remotest parts of the earth... through stonings, imprisonment and martydom. However, that is the key: the Gospel still went forth. Acts 8 actually says, "Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went" (vs. 4).
God may call you to do things and you may not always like the way it turns out, or the way He accomplishes His purpose. Like Moses and Abraham, and many other "Heroes of the Faith", you may never actually see the fruition of that call, but nevertheless you played an important part if you obeyed the voice of God (Hebrews 11:13, 39-40).
Acts 8 began with the stoning of the great servant of God, Stephen. He never saw the church preach the Gospel to the remotest parts of the earth. He died at the cusp of God moving. Yet 2000 years later we see that he played a vital role in fulfilling that purpose and no believer would ever count his life worthless.
Follwer of Jesus, take heart. Sometimes things on this side of Heaven do not make sense. Sometimes we feel like death is premature. Sometimes we don't see the promises of God fulfilled and we begin to doubt His call. Don't. Stop doubting. He is always working and accomplishing His purposes, even when it doesn't make sense to us (Isaiah 46:9-10).
If you are struggling with this truth, I invite you to pray the words the conflicted father spoke to Jesus in Mark 9, "I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief."
Thursday, July 28, 2011
When the Feelings Aren't There...
Psalm 143:7-12 (Click on reference to read text)
Have you ever had seasons in your life where you felt like this Psalmist? Have you found your spirit failing and felt like you were falling into a pit? I don't know about you, but I definitely go through "dry seasons." Seasons where I am overwhelmed, discouraged, cannot think clearly, and generally feel depressed. I am actually walking out of a season like that right now. So you know you are there... what do you do? What do you do when you are a believer, but the feelings just aren't there?
First, we need to call our feelings what they are... feelings. This may sound redundant and crazy, but we need to realize that our feelings do not always accurately reflect our reality. Instead of focusing on what we feel, we need to follow Paul's advice and focus on whatever is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, of good repute, excellence or worthy of praise (Phil 4:8). My dad used to always tell me, the feelings are the caboose of your life. They are not the driving engine. Just the caboose. No one puts the caboose first when trying to run a train, and we should not put our feelings first when trying to run our lives.
Second, we need to remind ourselves of what we know to be true. The Psalmist calls out to the Lord, "let me hear your loving kindness... for I trust in You... to You I lift up my Soul... I take refuge in you" (vs. 8-9). When you feel like you are falling into the pit, remember what you know to be true. You are not alone, and He is with you! (Psalm 139... READ IT :o)
Third, we need to call out on our Heavenly Father for help. We need to ask for Him to teach us the way in which we should walk (vs. 8), teach us to do His will (vs. 10), ask His Spirit to lead us on level ground (vs.10), and ask Him to revive us (vs.11). The Lord promises us in His word that if we ask anything according to His will He will do it (1 John 5:14-15). Believe this promise!
Finally, we need to start walking. The Psalmist ends this prayer with "For I am your servant" (vs. 12). He doesn't dwell in the pit. He praises the Lord, He calls out to the Lord for Help, and He starts living out His life in submission and service to the Lord. It may take awhile for your feelings to change. Feelings typically don't magically get better. They always follow actions! Just start walking in faith, and before you know it, your feelings will change! Your heart will be singing and your step will be lighter!
As mentioned earlier, I am coming out of a dry season. For the past few weeks I have felt depressed, overwhelmed, and just struggled to make it through each day. I know feeling like this is not God's plan for me (John 10:10). However, the choice to get out is mine. I must choose to call out to the one who CAN and WILL pull me out of the pit. If you feel like me, why don't we start calling out together?
Have you ever had seasons in your life where you felt like this Psalmist? Have you found your spirit failing and felt like you were falling into a pit? I don't know about you, but I definitely go through "dry seasons." Seasons where I am overwhelmed, discouraged, cannot think clearly, and generally feel depressed. I am actually walking out of a season like that right now. So you know you are there... what do you do? What do you do when you are a believer, but the feelings just aren't there?
First, we need to call our feelings what they are... feelings. This may sound redundant and crazy, but we need to realize that our feelings do not always accurately reflect our reality. Instead of focusing on what we feel, we need to follow Paul's advice and focus on whatever is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, of good repute, excellence or worthy of praise (Phil 4:8). My dad used to always tell me, the feelings are the caboose of your life. They are not the driving engine. Just the caboose. No one puts the caboose first when trying to run a train, and we should not put our feelings first when trying to run our lives.
Second, we need to remind ourselves of what we know to be true. The Psalmist calls out to the Lord, "let me hear your loving kindness... for I trust in You... to You I lift up my Soul... I take refuge in you" (vs. 8-9). When you feel like you are falling into the pit, remember what you know to be true. You are not alone, and He is with you! (Psalm 139... READ IT :o)
Third, we need to call out on our Heavenly Father for help. We need to ask for Him to teach us the way in which we should walk (vs. 8), teach us to do His will (vs. 10), ask His Spirit to lead us on level ground (vs.10), and ask Him to revive us (vs.11). The Lord promises us in His word that if we ask anything according to His will He will do it (1 John 5:14-15). Believe this promise!
Finally, we need to start walking. The Psalmist ends this prayer with "For I am your servant" (vs. 12). He doesn't dwell in the pit. He praises the Lord, He calls out to the Lord for Help, and He starts living out His life in submission and service to the Lord. It may take awhile for your feelings to change. Feelings typically don't magically get better. They always follow actions! Just start walking in faith, and before you know it, your feelings will change! Your heart will be singing and your step will be lighter!
As mentioned earlier, I am coming out of a dry season. For the past few weeks I have felt depressed, overwhelmed, and just struggled to make it through each day. I know feeling like this is not God's plan for me (John 10:10). However, the choice to get out is mine. I must choose to call out to the one who CAN and WILL pull me out of the pit. If you feel like me, why don't we start calling out together?
Thursday, July 7, 2011
The Wilderness
Deuteronomy 2:7, 8:2-4 (Click on reference to read text)
You know the saying that you can't see the forest for all the trees? I think we often cannot see our blessings because we are too focused on our circumstances. Yes, Israel wondered around in the desert for 40 years. Yes, it was hard. BUT they were never alone. The entire time they were there, the Lord provided for their every need. When they were thirsty, God gave them water (Deut 8:15). When they were hungry, God provided food (Exodus 16:4-8). Although they wondered in the wilderness for 40 years, their feet never swelled, and their sandals and clothes never wore out (Deut 8:4, 29:5). Amazing!
When I find myself in the "wilderness", whether self inflicted like the Israelites because of sin, or because the Lord is growing and teaching me to depend upon him (Deut 8:3, 5), I too can be so focused on my circumstances that I do not even notice His blessings. However, I would wager that if we would just open our eyes and look around us, we would quickly notice the movements of His hands in our lives. Our lives may not look exactly like we thought it would, we many not have everything we "want", we still get sick, we still have trials, but He is walking with us every step of the way.
However, it is often only in these times of wilderness, where we are stripped of everything, that we get quiet enough to focus on the only thing that truly matters.... our relationship with Christ. The wilderness is not always punishment. Sometimes the wilderness is the safest place for us to be (Rev 12:6).
So... instead of trying with all our mights to run from these times of trial and affliction, let's open our eyes to the movements of God in our life that brought us here. Allow His overwhelming presence and provision be your sustaining power, and watch and be amazed at how He provides for all your needs: emotionally, physically and spiritually. So today, instead of trying to figure out how to run out of the wilderness you find yourself in, try running into His presence and loving arms. You too will find you are not alone.
You know the saying that you can't see the forest for all the trees? I think we often cannot see our blessings because we are too focused on our circumstances. Yes, Israel wondered around in the desert for 40 years. Yes, it was hard. BUT they were never alone. The entire time they were there, the Lord provided for their every need. When they were thirsty, God gave them water (Deut 8:15). When they were hungry, God provided food (Exodus 16:4-8). Although they wondered in the wilderness for 40 years, their feet never swelled, and their sandals and clothes never wore out (Deut 8:4, 29:5). Amazing!
When I find myself in the "wilderness", whether self inflicted like the Israelites because of sin, or because the Lord is growing and teaching me to depend upon him (Deut 8:3, 5), I too can be so focused on my circumstances that I do not even notice His blessings. However, I would wager that if we would just open our eyes and look around us, we would quickly notice the movements of His hands in our lives. Our lives may not look exactly like we thought it would, we many not have everything we "want", we still get sick, we still have trials, but He is walking with us every step of the way.
However, it is often only in these times of wilderness, where we are stripped of everything, that we get quiet enough to focus on the only thing that truly matters.... our relationship with Christ. The wilderness is not always punishment. Sometimes the wilderness is the safest place for us to be (Rev 12:6).
So... instead of trying with all our mights to run from these times of trial and affliction, let's open our eyes to the movements of God in our life that brought us here. Allow His overwhelming presence and provision be your sustaining power, and watch and be amazed at how He provides for all your needs: emotionally, physically and spiritually. So today, instead of trying to figure out how to run out of the wilderness you find yourself in, try running into His presence and loving arms. You too will find you are not alone.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
It Takes a Little Time Sometimes...
Exodus 34:1-7 (Click on reference to read text)
We are a people of quick fixes and immediate results, but repentance takes work. Moses was initially handed the two stone tablets straight from the hand of God (Ex 31:18). Yet after He broke them on a rock (Ex 32:15-19), he begged God for a second chance. God, who is compassionate and full of grace, was willing to give Moses a second chance, but first He commanded Moses to "cut for yourself two stone tablets like the former ones, and I will write on the tablets the words that were on the former tablets which you shattered" (vs. 1). Moses wasn't just given a second set. He had to work for them. He had to cut another set out of stone first.
How many times have we found ourselves in a mess and knew it was going to take the hand of the Lord to deliver us? We may cry out to the Lord, ask forgiveness and believe the Scriptures: That the Lord is compasionate, slow to anger and abounding in love (Ex 34:6), that "If we confess our sins He is faithful and just to forgive us of our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness," (1 John 1:9 ) and "as far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us." (Ps 103:12)
However, we get frustrated when things don't immediately iron out, our troubles don't disappear, and things seem just as messy as before we cried out to God. God is a God of second chances, but there are going to be consequences for our actions. Sometimes the road of repentance is long and hard. God is not the Navy Seals who will simply come in and rescue you. His purpose for you goes beyond a "rescue operation." His purpose is to make you more like Him and sometimes He does that through the long road of recovery from the bad choices we make. Just know that "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit" (Ps 34:18). Rest in the truth "For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for a lifetime; Weeping may last for the night, but a shout of joy comes in the morning" (Ps 30:5).
When you relinquish control of your life to Him, He may require you to take the first step. That is okay. Start rebuilding and all the while know, you are not walking alone, you are forgiven, and eventually you will see how God will take your mess ups and turn them around for your good and His glory (Ro 8:28)."
Remember Isaiah's prophesy about our Lord... Jesus will "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 joy 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."(Isaiah 61:2-3)
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
A Sacrifice of Praise...
Genesis 29:21-35 (Click on reference to read text)
I have never read this story and felt bad for Leah. After all she is the nemesis, right? However, today my heart broke for her. She knew she was unloved. She knew she was seen as a mistake. She did everything in her power to win the love of her husband. Yet she could not succeed.
After every son was born, she says, "surely now my husband will love me" (vs. 32 & 34). Finally, after her fourth son was born she says, "This time I will praise the LORD. Therefore, she named him Judah" (vs. 35). She stopped looking at what she didn't have, and started praising the Lord. Leah learned the secret of Hebrew 13:15 - offering a sacrifice of praise. It is called a sacrifice because you are making the conscious choice to praise God before the circumstances change. In the midst of your pain. Your heart shifts from trying to manipulate the situation like you want it, to just giving God glory and submitting to His sovereignty. It is in the hard moments, where you lay down your desires and take on His, that He begins to change your life and give you the strength to keep going.
We all know that from Judah came the Kings of Israel, starting with David and going all the way to Jesus. What a sweet picture of 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." Praise that Lord that even when bad things happen to us, God is still in control and can turn those hurtful things into great blessing!
Whose affection are you trying to win? Are you striving with all your might to earn favor, to gain esteem, to feel loved? "Cease striving and know that He is God. The Lord of hosts is with you" (Ps 46:10-11). "How great a love the Father has bestowed on us, that we would be called children of God" (1John 3:1). That is what you are... the beloved child of the King.
I urge you to start making your sacrifice of praise... TODAY. NOW. EVEN BEFORE your circumstances change. Those sacrifices, He will not deny. "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; A broken and a contrite heart, O God, You will not despise" (Ps 51:17).
I have never read this story and felt bad for Leah. After all she is the nemesis, right? However, today my heart broke for her. She knew she was unloved. She knew she was seen as a mistake. She did everything in her power to win the love of her husband. Yet she could not succeed.
After every son was born, she says, "surely now my husband will love me" (vs. 32 & 34). Finally, after her fourth son was born she says, "This time I will praise the LORD. Therefore, she named him Judah" (vs. 35). She stopped looking at what she didn't have, and started praising the Lord. Leah learned the secret of Hebrew 13:15 - offering a sacrifice of praise. It is called a sacrifice because you are making the conscious choice to praise God before the circumstances change. In the midst of your pain. Your heart shifts from trying to manipulate the situation like you want it, to just giving God glory and submitting to His sovereignty. It is in the hard moments, where you lay down your desires and take on His, that He begins to change your life and give you the strength to keep going.
We all know that from Judah came the Kings of Israel, starting with David and going all the way to Jesus. What a sweet picture of 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." Praise that Lord that even when bad things happen to us, God is still in control and can turn those hurtful things into great blessing!
Whose affection are you trying to win? Are you striving with all your might to earn favor, to gain esteem, to feel loved? "Cease striving and know that He is God. The Lord of hosts is with you" (Ps 46:10-11). "How great a love the Father has bestowed on us, that we would be called children of God" (1John 3:1). That is what you are... the beloved child of the King.
I urge you to start making your sacrifice of praise... TODAY. NOW. EVEN BEFORE your circumstances change. Those sacrifices, He will not deny. "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; A broken and a contrite heart, O God, You will not despise" (Ps 51:17).
Sunday, March 20, 2011
God Really Does Equip the Called...
Matthew 28:16-20 (click on reference to read text)
If you would have peeked inside my living room window on Thursday afternoon, you would have thought I had lost it. I was lying on the floor, face down and in tears. I had a rough couple of weeks and was slowly reaching a breaking point. God had called me to something and I was failing miserably. I was confident in the call, but not in the called (myself)! Then I read Matthew 28. Guess what? I was reminded it is not all up to me!
The calling the Lord had given the disciples was enormous. Big enough that without God it would have failed within the first year! They were to go and make disciples of all nations! However, the key lies in verse 19. "Baptize them in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit." It was not up to the disciples, they just had to be obedient. The success of the work was all up to God!
The work that God has called you to is not riding on your shoulders either. He has given us specific promises in His Word regarding this truth. First, that God's power will bring to fruition what He has called us to (2 Thes 1:11-12). Second, He will give us the strength to carry out His will and the words to say (1 Peter 4:11). Third, He has given us everything we need for a godly life (2 Peter 1:3)!
It does not matter if your calling is being a missionary to an unreached people group, a minister, a business owner or a mother. Whatever He has called you to, He will equip you. After seeking my Father's face and listening to His Word, I got up from my living room floor and knew that I was no longer walking alone. I had the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit on my side, and they were going to be victorious!
If you would have peeked inside my living room window on Thursday afternoon, you would have thought I had lost it. I was lying on the floor, face down and in tears. I had a rough couple of weeks and was slowly reaching a breaking point. God had called me to something and I was failing miserably. I was confident in the call, but not in the called (myself)! Then I read Matthew 28. Guess what? I was reminded it is not all up to me!
The calling the Lord had given the disciples was enormous. Big enough that without God it would have failed within the first year! They were to go and make disciples of all nations! However, the key lies in verse 19. "Baptize them in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit." It was not up to the disciples, they just had to be obedient. The success of the work was all up to God!
The work that God has called you to is not riding on your shoulders either. He has given us specific promises in His Word regarding this truth. First, that God's power will bring to fruition what He has called us to (2 Thes 1:11-12). Second, He will give us the strength to carry out His will and the words to say (1 Peter 4:11). Third, He has given us everything we need for a godly life (2 Peter 1:3)!
It does not matter if your calling is being a missionary to an unreached people group, a minister, a business owner or a mother. Whatever He has called you to, He will equip you. After seeking my Father's face and listening to His Word, I got up from my living room floor and knew that I was no longer walking alone. I had the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit on my side, and they were going to be victorious!
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Life Giving Water...
John 4:7-27 (Click on reference to read the text)
The Lord overflows into our life His presence, grace, compassion, and mercy not based upon our own merit, but based upon our own need.
Jesus is our living water and He is our unfailing stream. Everything else will dry up eventually, everything else will stop satisfying our souls, but Jesus is seeking you out just like we see Him seeking out a lost woman in order to offer her something she cannot refuse: Himself!
The First thing we see is that Jesus seeks out those that need Him the most. This woman was not a woman that we would have found in the temple worshipping God. She was from an area that people avoided and she was living in sin. In verse 9 the woman is clearly confused that Jesus, whom we know to be the Mesiah, is even speaking with her: "How is it that You, being a Jew, ask me for a drink since I am a Samaritan woman? For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans." You see, Jesus forgave when everyone around Him would have called Him crazy. He showed grace to everyone, regardless of their situation, nationality, or sin. He knew the woman's situation and the grievious sins she had committed against Him before He ever uttered a word. Yet Jesus chose to go against cultural norms to bring about the reconcilation of this girl and her family. Which leads me to ask...do I go to this trouble? Do I seek out the one that is lost?
Second we see that Jesus asks us for what He doesn't need so that our greatest need can be fulfilled in Him (vs. 7-9). He is God. He could have made it rain, he could have called down the angels to supply Him with water...but He didn't. He chose to ask this woman so that her life would forever be changed. The only thing she had to offer Him was a drink of water that would eventually no longer satisfy His thirst. Yet He could offer a living water that would satisfy the deepest needs of her, and your, soul for all time. All God needs from us is a receptive Spirit (vs. 11). We must come to Him with nothing. We can't tap into His overflowing Spirit with any talent or possession. He must do all the work.
Finally in verse 13-18 we see what life is like for those that try to get an overflowing satisfaction in their life apart from Christ. Her life is a story of broken and failed relationships, abandonment, and instability because everything apart from His grace and salvation is bondage. Ray Stedman writes, "Jesus breaks the shackles of evil habits in our lives. He sets us free from the dependencies that we have allowed to harrass us, to shackle us, and limit us... We are all sinfully dependent people. We have all been shackled by evil of some sort or another." Sin does not offer you freedom. Sin offers you an illusion of freedom. Sin always always creates dependency. You will always crave more (i.e. drugs always make you crave more drugs, an idol of a relationship always leaves you craving for more attention or affection, a Starbucks Latte will always leave you wanting more, etc. Sorry, that last one was a little too personal!) Ask yourself this, is there anything in my life that I am dependent upon in order to "make it through the day" or in order to make me"happy?" If the answer is anything but Christ then that is a clear indication of a sin or idol in your life!
No matter where you find yourself, know this... The Lord will overflow into your life His presence, grace, compassion and mercy not based upon your own merit, but based upon your own need. Galatians 5:1 states, "It is for freedom that Christ set you free. Stand firm then and do not be burdened again by the yoke of slavery." Just allow Him to set you free. You have nothing to offer Him, but everything to gain.
The Lord overflows into our life His presence, grace, compassion, and mercy not based upon our own merit, but based upon our own need.
Jesus is our living water and He is our unfailing stream. Everything else will dry up eventually, everything else will stop satisfying our souls, but Jesus is seeking you out just like we see Him seeking out a lost woman in order to offer her something she cannot refuse: Himself!
The First thing we see is that Jesus seeks out those that need Him the most. This woman was not a woman that we would have found in the temple worshipping God. She was from an area that people avoided and she was living in sin. In verse 9 the woman is clearly confused that Jesus, whom we know to be the Mesiah, is even speaking with her: "How is it that You, being a Jew, ask me for a drink since I am a Samaritan woman? For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans." You see, Jesus forgave when everyone around Him would have called Him crazy. He showed grace to everyone, regardless of their situation, nationality, or sin. He knew the woman's situation and the grievious sins she had committed against Him before He ever uttered a word. Yet Jesus chose to go against cultural norms to bring about the reconcilation of this girl and her family. Which leads me to ask...do I go to this trouble? Do I seek out the one that is lost?
Second we see that Jesus asks us for what He doesn't need so that our greatest need can be fulfilled in Him (vs. 7-9). He is God. He could have made it rain, he could have called down the angels to supply Him with water...but He didn't. He chose to ask this woman so that her life would forever be changed. The only thing she had to offer Him was a drink of water that would eventually no longer satisfy His thirst. Yet He could offer a living water that would satisfy the deepest needs of her, and your, soul for all time. All God needs from us is a receptive Spirit (vs. 11). We must come to Him with nothing. We can't tap into His overflowing Spirit with any talent or possession. He must do all the work.
Finally in verse 13-18 we see what life is like for those that try to get an overflowing satisfaction in their life apart from Christ. Her life is a story of broken and failed relationships, abandonment, and instability because everything apart from His grace and salvation is bondage. Ray Stedman writes, "Jesus breaks the shackles of evil habits in our lives. He sets us free from the dependencies that we have allowed to harrass us, to shackle us, and limit us... We are all sinfully dependent people. We have all been shackled by evil of some sort or another." Sin does not offer you freedom. Sin offers you an illusion of freedom. Sin always always creates dependency. You will always crave more (i.e. drugs always make you crave more drugs, an idol of a relationship always leaves you craving for more attention or affection, a Starbucks Latte will always leave you wanting more, etc. Sorry, that last one was a little too personal!) Ask yourself this, is there anything in my life that I am dependent upon in order to "make it through the day" or in order to make me"happy?" If the answer is anything but Christ then that is a clear indication of a sin or idol in your life!
No matter where you find yourself, know this... The Lord will overflow into your life His presence, grace, compassion and mercy not based upon your own merit, but based upon your own need. Galatians 5:1 states, "It is for freedom that Christ set you free. Stand firm then and do not be burdened again by the yoke of slavery." Just allow Him to set you free. You have nothing to offer Him, but everything to gain.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
An Alarm Clock from Christ..
Isaiah 55:8-13 (Click on reference to read text)
I am not a morning person. I praise the Lord that my husband and daughter are not either, but then my son entered into our family. From day one he has always woke up at 5 am. It was like clockwork and it was killing me! After a year of his schedule I was praying to the Lord for his mercy to rain down on my household. I needed a good nights rest. I needed to have my sleep to be the best mother possible! (You can tell you are desperate when you start giving God all the "holy" reasons you need him to answer your prayers!) Then in that still small voice, I heard, "What if I want you to get up?"
We learn in this passage that God's ways and thoughts are so much higher than our ways and that He has a purpose in all things. Psalms 119:91 states that "all things serve you (God)." That includes our circumstances! Nothing ever takes the Lord by surprise, but instead He takes everything and uses it for His glory and out ultimate good (Ro 8:28). He has a purpose in everything.
When trials come our way, no matter how big and overwhelming or small and wearing, if we give God control and seek his higher plan, we will see results that we could have never imagined. He promises in his word that in every rain shower in our life He will pour out his blessing. "As the rain and snow come down from Heaven, and do not return there without watering the earth, and making it bear and sprout, and furnishing seeds for the sower and bread for the eater, so will My word be which goes forth from my mouth; it will not return to Me empty without accomplishing what I desire, and without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it" (Is 55).
Well, long story short... once I started getting up to spend time with the Lord, surprise surprise, my son started sleeping in most days. Half the week I have to wake him up! God knew that He needed to be this drastic to get me out of bed... it only took me a year to listen! What circumstances in your life are wearing you down? What situations are you begging for the Lord to remove? Have you asked for his perspective? I know it seems scary. I would have told you that to ask me to set my alarm for 6 a.m. you might as well have asked me to climb Everest with the kids hanging on to my legs! However, now this early morning time is my favorite part of my day. I promise though, that once you accept God's perspective and plan, He will provide the means and way for you to accomplish it. Remember, it is for your good! Maybe you will be wise enough to not let it continue for a year before you obey!
"You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands. Instead of the thorn bush will grow the pine tree, and instead of briers the myrtle will grow. This will be for the LORD's renown, for an everlasting sign, which will not be destroyed." Isaiah 55: 12-13
I am not a morning person. I praise the Lord that my husband and daughter are not either, but then my son entered into our family. From day one he has always woke up at 5 am. It was like clockwork and it was killing me! After a year of his schedule I was praying to the Lord for his mercy to rain down on my household. I needed a good nights rest. I needed to have my sleep to be the best mother possible! (You can tell you are desperate when you start giving God all the "holy" reasons you need him to answer your prayers!) Then in that still small voice, I heard, "What if I want you to get up?"
We learn in this passage that God's ways and thoughts are so much higher than our ways and that He has a purpose in all things. Psalms 119:91 states that "all things serve you (God)." That includes our circumstances! Nothing ever takes the Lord by surprise, but instead He takes everything and uses it for His glory and out ultimate good (Ro 8:28). He has a purpose in everything.
When trials come our way, no matter how big and overwhelming or small and wearing, if we give God control and seek his higher plan, we will see results that we could have never imagined. He promises in his word that in every rain shower in our life He will pour out his blessing. "As the rain and snow come down from Heaven, and do not return there without watering the earth, and making it bear and sprout, and furnishing seeds for the sower and bread for the eater, so will My word be which goes forth from my mouth; it will not return to Me empty without accomplishing what I desire, and without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it" (Is 55).
Well, long story short... once I started getting up to spend time with the Lord, surprise surprise, my son started sleeping in most days. Half the week I have to wake him up! God knew that He needed to be this drastic to get me out of bed... it only took me a year to listen! What circumstances in your life are wearing you down? What situations are you begging for the Lord to remove? Have you asked for his perspective? I know it seems scary. I would have told you that to ask me to set my alarm for 6 a.m. you might as well have asked me to climb Everest with the kids hanging on to my legs! However, now this early morning time is my favorite part of my day. I promise though, that once you accept God's perspective and plan, He will provide the means and way for you to accomplish it. Remember, it is for your good! Maybe you will be wise enough to not let it continue for a year before you obey!
"You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands. Instead of the thorn bush will grow the pine tree, and instead of briers the myrtle will grow. This will be for the LORD's renown, for an everlasting sign, which will not be destroyed." Isaiah 55: 12-13
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Hanging Out with the Sheep and Loving it!
1 Samuel 17:12-19, 32-37
David... a man used of God? In hindsight we would all answer a resounding yes! If we were discussing King David, we would still all answer yes, but what about David the shepherd boy?
While all his brother's were off fighting a war to defend God's chosen nation/people against the enemy, he found himself playing his harp to a bunch of sheep in the wilderness. I wonder how many times he questioned God, "Am I really the one that Prophet Samuel anointed to be King? If so, why am I here with the sheep?" Maybe David didn't ever question God, but I know I would have if I was in his shoes.
A heart that is passionately in love with Jesus longs to do impossible things in the name of Christ. We long to have great purpose, to magnify the name of Christ, and most often we long for that NOW! We desire to follow His will for our life and have a hard time accepting it when it looks like our greatest purpose is "watching the sheep." Maybe your sheep field is being a stay at home mom to children resisting potty training, testing authority, and asking 1.5 trillion questions every day. Maybe your sheep field is a lonely house putting the pieces back together after an unforeseen tragedy. Maybe your sheep field is an office filled with people who you feel could care less about integrity, or you for that matter. However, there is one common denominator... it is YOUR sheep field. As much as you might not want to admit it, you may just be exactly where God wants you to be.
Which leads us to ask... well what now? How could I possibly honor God and bring Him glory where I am at? Let's see what David did. David did his job to the utmost of his ability. When lions and bears threatened his flock, he fought back with a vengeance. He obviously was spending his long days in the field with the Lord, because he was intimately acquainted with His God. He gave the Lord all the glory for his courage and deliverance.
David didn't realize it, but God was using the sheep field and the trials that came along with it, in order to prepare him for that moment that he needed to be ready to glorify God and save God's people. If he was not obedient in the field, not seeking the Father's face while with the sheep, he probably would never have had the courage or ability to kill Goliath in such a God honoring and creative way.
God doesn't look at our circumstances in the same way we do. He sees more than the past five minutes. He knows the next 50 years. His timetable is perfect. We must choose to honor him where we are today.
Are you discouraged? Do you feel like the Lord anointed you for a task, and instead of fulfilling it you are out to pasture? Don't give up. As David himself wrote:
"Trust in the Lord and do good. Dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord; and He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and He will do it. He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, and the justice of your cause like the noon day sun... Rest in the Lord and wait patiently for Him... Cease from anger and forsake wrath; do not fret; it leads only to evildoing... Those who wait for the Lord, they will inherit the land... The Lord knows the days of the blameless and their inheritance forever... The steps of a man are established by the Lord, and He delights in his way. When he falls he will not be hurled headlong, because the Lord is the One who holds his hand." (Psalm 37)
David... a man used of God? In hindsight we would all answer a resounding yes! If we were discussing King David, we would still all answer yes, but what about David the shepherd boy?
While all his brother's were off fighting a war to defend God's chosen nation/people against the enemy, he found himself playing his harp to a bunch of sheep in the wilderness. I wonder how many times he questioned God, "Am I really the one that Prophet Samuel anointed to be King? If so, why am I here with the sheep?" Maybe David didn't ever question God, but I know I would have if I was in his shoes.
A heart that is passionately in love with Jesus longs to do impossible things in the name of Christ. We long to have great purpose, to magnify the name of Christ, and most often we long for that NOW! We desire to follow His will for our life and have a hard time accepting it when it looks like our greatest purpose is "watching the sheep." Maybe your sheep field is being a stay at home mom to children resisting potty training, testing authority, and asking 1.5 trillion questions every day. Maybe your sheep field is a lonely house putting the pieces back together after an unforeseen tragedy. Maybe your sheep field is an office filled with people who you feel could care less about integrity, or you for that matter. However, there is one common denominator... it is YOUR sheep field. As much as you might not want to admit it, you may just be exactly where God wants you to be.
Which leads us to ask... well what now? How could I possibly honor God and bring Him glory where I am at? Let's see what David did. David did his job to the utmost of his ability. When lions and bears threatened his flock, he fought back with a vengeance. He obviously was spending his long days in the field with the Lord, because he was intimately acquainted with His God. He gave the Lord all the glory for his courage and deliverance.
David didn't realize it, but God was using the sheep field and the trials that came along with it, in order to prepare him for that moment that he needed to be ready to glorify God and save God's people. If he was not obedient in the field, not seeking the Father's face while with the sheep, he probably would never have had the courage or ability to kill Goliath in such a God honoring and creative way.
God doesn't look at our circumstances in the same way we do. He sees more than the past five minutes. He knows the next 50 years. His timetable is perfect. We must choose to honor him where we are today.
Are you discouraged? Do you feel like the Lord anointed you for a task, and instead of fulfilling it you are out to pasture? Don't give up. As David himself wrote:
"Trust in the Lord and do good. Dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord; and He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and He will do it. He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, and the justice of your cause like the noon day sun... Rest in the Lord and wait patiently for Him... Cease from anger and forsake wrath; do not fret; it leads only to evildoing... Those who wait for the Lord, they will inherit the land... The Lord knows the days of the blameless and their inheritance forever... The steps of a man are established by the Lord, and He delights in his way. When he falls he will not be hurled headlong, because the Lord is the One who holds his hand." (Psalm 37)
Friday, July 2, 2010
The TimeTable of My Savior...
Exodus 2:11-15, 3 and 4 (Click on reference to read text)
Have you ever tried to serve the Lord, only to have it backfire and land you in the "desert"? Welcome to Moses's life.
Many times we have great ideas to further the Kingdom of God. We rush ahead, sure that this idea was divinely inspired, but instead of the planned outcome, we find our self in the desert. The natural response would be to become bitter, angry, disillusioned and disappointed. However, we must remember that God's ways are higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9), and the desert may be just the place he needs us.
The desert taught Moses to stop and listen. "When the Lord saw that he (Moses) turned aside to look, God called to him from the midst of the bush and said, "Moses, Moses!" and he said, "Here I am" (vs. 3:4). Moses learned to recognize and heed the voice of God. Instead of charging ahead and making his own plans he listened to what God had to say. We too must learn this lesson. God does not need us in order to see his purpose accomplished, but he desires to use us for His glory. We must seek His voice to find out how He wants us to glorify Him.
Second, the desert taught Moses to fear the Lord. In verse 6 we find Moses hiding his face, afraid to look at God. Proverbs tells us that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and knowledge of the Holy One brings understanding (9:10). Just as we desire our children to not cower in fear of us, but to respect us enough to trust that what we say is right and should be followed, we too should have a healthy fear of the Lord. His Word is full of wisdom and direction. We need to approach every decision we make in light of a healthy reverence of the Lord. If it is not for His glory, then it is not for our good!
Third, the desert taught Moses humility. We find Moses arguing with God saying, "who am I that I should go?"(vs. 3:11). Instead of rushing in and taking the bull by the horns, he is questioning to see if God got it right! Later we read that Moses was the most humble man on the face of the Earth (Numbers 12:3). What changed? 40 years in the desert. Instead of bemoaning your circumstances we need to ask God what He wants to teach us through them. Find out the lesson He wants you to learn. We know that in all things God will work for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). Believe that promise and start being obedient to the Lord where He places you now. Who knows, He may be preparing you to bring deliverance!
Fourth, the desert taught Moses true confidence. Chapter 3 and 4 of Exodus finds God telling Moses exactly how it is all going to go down. He doesn't send Moses in unprepared. He even warns him that Pharaoh is not going to let go easily. However, we see a wonderful thing: "No time is spent convincing Moses of what he can do, but much time is spent explaining to Moses what God can do. The strength of Moses is never considered... the strength of Moses is not the issue, the strength of God is" (Max Lucado). Moses learns that "we can do all things through Him who gives us strength (Phil 4:13), "that when we are weak we are actually strong" (2 Cor 12:10), that God in fact uses the weak things of this world to shame the strong (1 Cor 1:27). Human weakness always opens the door for God's power to shine through. Moses learned that confidence is not found in his abilities, but in God's!
There are a lot of other lessons he learned here, but you get the point. The desert is not always as dry as it first appears. Know that even though you may find yourself here, you are not alone. Be strong and courageous for the Lord your God is with you wherever you may go (Joshua 1:9). Start praising God for his presence, for His wisdom in bringing you hear, and open your ears to what He might be telling you. Listen to his command, "Remove your sandals from your feet" (be still and know that He is God) "For the place on which you are standing is holy ground."
Have you ever tried to serve the Lord, only to have it backfire and land you in the "desert"? Welcome to Moses's life.
Many times we have great ideas to further the Kingdom of God. We rush ahead, sure that this idea was divinely inspired, but instead of the planned outcome, we find our self in the desert. The natural response would be to become bitter, angry, disillusioned and disappointed. However, we must remember that God's ways are higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9), and the desert may be just the place he needs us.
The desert taught Moses to stop and listen. "When the Lord saw that he (Moses) turned aside to look, God called to him from the midst of the bush and said, "Moses, Moses!" and he said, "Here I am" (vs. 3:4). Moses learned to recognize and heed the voice of God. Instead of charging ahead and making his own plans he listened to what God had to say. We too must learn this lesson. God does not need us in order to see his purpose accomplished, but he desires to use us for His glory. We must seek His voice to find out how He wants us to glorify Him.
Second, the desert taught Moses to fear the Lord. In verse 6 we find Moses hiding his face, afraid to look at God. Proverbs tells us that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and knowledge of the Holy One brings understanding (9:10). Just as we desire our children to not cower in fear of us, but to respect us enough to trust that what we say is right and should be followed, we too should have a healthy fear of the Lord. His Word is full of wisdom and direction. We need to approach every decision we make in light of a healthy reverence of the Lord. If it is not for His glory, then it is not for our good!
Third, the desert taught Moses humility. We find Moses arguing with God saying, "who am I that I should go?"(vs. 3:11). Instead of rushing in and taking the bull by the horns, he is questioning to see if God got it right! Later we read that Moses was the most humble man on the face of the Earth (Numbers 12:3). What changed? 40 years in the desert. Instead of bemoaning your circumstances we need to ask God what He wants to teach us through them. Find out the lesson He wants you to learn. We know that in all things God will work for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). Believe that promise and start being obedient to the Lord where He places you now. Who knows, He may be preparing you to bring deliverance!
Fourth, the desert taught Moses true confidence. Chapter 3 and 4 of Exodus finds God telling Moses exactly how it is all going to go down. He doesn't send Moses in unprepared. He even warns him that Pharaoh is not going to let go easily. However, we see a wonderful thing: "No time is spent convincing Moses of what he can do, but much time is spent explaining to Moses what God can do. The strength of Moses is never considered... the strength of Moses is not the issue, the strength of God is" (Max Lucado). Moses learns that "we can do all things through Him who gives us strength (Phil 4:13), "that when we are weak we are actually strong" (2 Cor 12:10), that God in fact uses the weak things of this world to shame the strong (1 Cor 1:27). Human weakness always opens the door for God's power to shine through. Moses learned that confidence is not found in his abilities, but in God's!
There are a lot of other lessons he learned here, but you get the point. The desert is not always as dry as it first appears. Know that even though you may find yourself here, you are not alone. Be strong and courageous for the Lord your God is with you wherever you may go (Joshua 1:9). Start praising God for his presence, for His wisdom in bringing you hear, and open your ears to what He might be telling you. Listen to his command, "Remove your sandals from your feet" (be still and know that He is God) "For the place on which you are standing is holy ground."
Saturday, May 29, 2010
To be Used or Not to be Used?
Matthew 14:22-33 (Click on Reference to read Scripture)
Do you want to be used by God? I am talking about being used in supernatural ways that all of earth will be changed because of the life you lived? We all would answer yes. Just writing these words makes my heart long that He uses me in ways that can only be described as supernatural. I have often prayed over the years that the Lord would use me greatly, beyond my imagination. However, when He begins to answer this prayer, and things don’t always seem to go as planned, we often falter in our faith and become like Peter… sinking instead of walking.
There are people in the Bible, many who entire books of the Bible are devoted to and who are still known and talked about thousands of years later, who were called to do some pretty bizarre things in the name and will of God. Let me list a few:
1. Isaiah was commanded by God to walk around naked for THREE YEARS in order for God to get his point across to pagan nations (Is 20).
2. God took the life of Ezekiel’s wife suddenly and then commanded Ezekiel not to mourn as a testimony to Israel (Ez 24:15f).
3. Hosea was commanded to marry a prostitute that would cause him no end of heartache (Hosea).
4. Mary, who was called highly favored of God and the mother of Jesus, endured serious trials. She was more than likely scorned and ridiculed the moment she showed up pregnant and not married, her fiance almost abandoned her, she had to flee her country in the middle of the night to save the life of her family, and she had to watch her son be crucified and mocked in front of her very eyes (Luke 1:26-38, Matthew 1:18-25, Matthew 2:13-15, John 19:16-30).
5. Moses had to basically spend his entire adult life in the dessert, NOT the promised land, and lead an entire nation of complaining people which constantly doubted his authority and his relationship with God (Exodus 16:1-21, 17:1-7, Numbers 11:10-15, Joshua 1:1-2).
6. Paul, Peter, John, and all the original disciples either spent time in prison, were stoned, definitely ridiculed, homeless, shipwrecked, exiled, and martyred for the Kingdom of God.
7. Daniel was thrown into a den of lions just because he prayed every day to God (Daniel 6).
And I could literally go on and on. Louie Giglio once said, “God does not use anyone mightily that He does not test thoroughly.” I am not saying that God is going to command you to walk around naked for three years, take away your spouse, or ship you off as Lions food, but if he does, will you still praise him? Will He still be the Lord of your life and the desire of your heart? That is a tough question, but God is worth it. His reward is for eternity.
Let’s not get so focused on today that we lose the big picture of how God wants to use us for eternity. The waves may be crashing down all around us, but God still wants you to walk on water and follow him. You only have one shot here on earth to be used by God. Are you willing to be sold out and have him do things in your life that can only be described as supernatural, even when they might not be exactly like you imagined?
Just as God asked Isaiah: Whom shall I send? May I respond likewise, "Here I am, send me!" (Isaiah 6:8)
Do you want to be used by God? I am talking about being used in supernatural ways that all of earth will be changed because of the life you lived? We all would answer yes. Just writing these words makes my heart long that He uses me in ways that can only be described as supernatural. I have often prayed over the years that the Lord would use me greatly, beyond my imagination. However, when He begins to answer this prayer, and things don’t always seem to go as planned, we often falter in our faith and become like Peter… sinking instead of walking.
There are people in the Bible, many who entire books of the Bible are devoted to and who are still known and talked about thousands of years later, who were called to do some pretty bizarre things in the name and will of God. Let me list a few:
1. Isaiah was commanded by God to walk around naked for THREE YEARS in order for God to get his point across to pagan nations (Is 20).
2. God took the life of Ezekiel’s wife suddenly and then commanded Ezekiel not to mourn as a testimony to Israel (Ez 24:15f).
3. Hosea was commanded to marry a prostitute that would cause him no end of heartache (Hosea).
4. Mary, who was called highly favored of God and the mother of Jesus, endured serious trials. She was more than likely scorned and ridiculed the moment she showed up pregnant and not married, her fiance almost abandoned her, she had to flee her country in the middle of the night to save the life of her family, and she had to watch her son be crucified and mocked in front of her very eyes (Luke 1:26-38, Matthew 1:18-25, Matthew 2:13-15, John 19:16-30).
5. Moses had to basically spend his entire adult life in the dessert, NOT the promised land, and lead an entire nation of complaining people which constantly doubted his authority and his relationship with God (Exodus 16:1-21, 17:1-7, Numbers 11:10-15, Joshua 1:1-2).
6. Paul, Peter, John, and all the original disciples either spent time in prison, were stoned, definitely ridiculed, homeless, shipwrecked, exiled, and martyred for the Kingdom of God.
7. Daniel was thrown into a den of lions just because he prayed every day to God (Daniel 6).
And I could literally go on and on. Louie Giglio once said, “God does not use anyone mightily that He does not test thoroughly.” I am not saying that God is going to command you to walk around naked for three years, take away your spouse, or ship you off as Lions food, but if he does, will you still praise him? Will He still be the Lord of your life and the desire of your heart? That is a tough question, but God is worth it. His reward is for eternity.
Let’s not get so focused on today that we lose the big picture of how God wants to use us for eternity. The waves may be crashing down all around us, but God still wants you to walk on water and follow him. You only have one shot here on earth to be used by God. Are you willing to be sold out and have him do things in your life that can only be described as supernatural, even when they might not be exactly like you imagined?
Just as God asked Isaiah: Whom shall I send? May I respond likewise, "Here I am, send me!" (Isaiah 6:8)
Monday, May 10, 2010
There is Strength in the Name of the Lord...
I could hear the strong baritone voice of my Daddy singing this song as I sat in the waiting room at the hospital while my husband was in surgery. I could hear his voice singing these words in my head. I don't remember what the occasion was, but the last time I sang this song, we were in my home church growing up and I was holding my Daddy's big, strong, hairy hand... I felt so secure. I would have given so much to hold my Daddy's hand this past week and feel that same security. Instead, I was sitting in a waiting room, all alone, wondering how I was ever going to feel completely secure again. So... I prayed, and this is what I learned.
True security can only be had when our priorities and our perspective are correct. Our entire existence centers around one truth: We are enemies of God (Romans 8:10) and instead of leaving us in this depraved state, God sent His one and only Son Jesus Christ (John 3:16) to be a sacrificial lamb and provide reconciliation for all eternity (Romans 5:1). This life, if we are lucky maybe 80 years of our existence, is a short period when compared to eternity. When we focus on this short lifespan, turn all of our thoughts and attentions on the here and now, we will never know true security. People close to us will die, disease and sickness will come, jobs will be lost, rain will fall, questions will never have answers, people will disappoint us and hurt us... but that is not the whole story. If we accept this free gift of Salvation from God, NOTHING can separate us from God again (Romans 8:38-39).
You see, God cares about us so much, that He cares about the whole picture, the eternity side of things. If He blessed us so much in this short 80 or so years that we never invested in eternity, that would be like me allowing my two year old unlimited sugar now only to watch her die of diabetes later on. A true mother, one that really loves her child, would show moderation, so that the child's entire life can be pleasant, not just today. That is how the Lord works. Romans 5 teaches us that we can exult in our tribulations, knowing that our tribulations bring about perseverance, perseverance brings about proven character, and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint (vs. 3-4). We can rejoice in our trials, because they allow opportunity to lay up treasures in heaven, treasures that cannot be destroyed, but benefit all eternity (Matthew 6:19-20).
This truth is played out over and over in so many promises we Christians love to claim... that God causes all things to work together for good (Ro 8:28), that He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not freely give us all things (Ro 8:32), and I could go on and on. However, often we take these verses out of context. If we continue reading to verse 29, we will find that "our good" is "to become conformed into the image of His son"
(Ro 8:29). In the same respect, God will freely give us all things that are necessary to bring fulfillment of the work begun at the cross (2 Peter 1:3). God loves us, and will take what Satan meant for evil and turn it around for good, but it is our eternity that He cares about. He loves us too much to not bless us eternally.
So, how do we find true and lasting security? We must answer this question, what is most important to you? Where do your treasures lie? Is it God, or earthly possessions, earthly relationships, etc. If God's glory and renown is most important to you, you will have perfect peace (Isaiah 26:3). When we realize that we are owed nothing except death and condemnation (Ro 3:23, Ro 6:23), anything above and beyond that is simple and complete blessing. We are sinners, but Christ died for us, that is all we need.
You may ask, how do I KNOW that my perspective is right and Holy? If God never blessed you with another thing, if all you had was taken away - even your family - would you still choose Him? Would you still praise Him? Would you still bless His Holy Name? That is how you know.
My Daddy's death rocked my world. Gone was childish innocence that nothing too bad would ever happen to me. Insecurity and fear have fought hard to characterize my life. However, a new realization has washed over me as well. No mater what happens, even if the surgeon came out of the room to say my husband did not make it, it would NOT be easy, but I would be okay. I have the Lord, He loves me, He girds me with strength, eternity can never be taken away, and I will see my loved ones again. Granted, this is not easy and I pray no tragedy befalls my family, that my husband and I have a lifetime of togetherness, but God must be my rock and eternity must be my purpose. "The Lord knows the days of the blameless, and their inheritance will be forever" (Psalm 37:18).
True security can only be had when our priorities and our perspective are correct. Our entire existence centers around one truth: We are enemies of God (Romans 8:10) and instead of leaving us in this depraved state, God sent His one and only Son Jesus Christ (John 3:16) to be a sacrificial lamb and provide reconciliation for all eternity (Romans 5:1). This life, if we are lucky maybe 80 years of our existence, is a short period when compared to eternity. When we focus on this short lifespan, turn all of our thoughts and attentions on the here and now, we will never know true security. People close to us will die, disease and sickness will come, jobs will be lost, rain will fall, questions will never have answers, people will disappoint us and hurt us... but that is not the whole story. If we accept this free gift of Salvation from God, NOTHING can separate us from God again (Romans 8:38-39).
You see, God cares about us so much, that He cares about the whole picture, the eternity side of things. If He blessed us so much in this short 80 or so years that we never invested in eternity, that would be like me allowing my two year old unlimited sugar now only to watch her die of diabetes later on. A true mother, one that really loves her child, would show moderation, so that the child's entire life can be pleasant, not just today. That is how the Lord works. Romans 5 teaches us that we can exult in our tribulations, knowing that our tribulations bring about perseverance, perseverance brings about proven character, and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint (vs. 3-4). We can rejoice in our trials, because they allow opportunity to lay up treasures in heaven, treasures that cannot be destroyed, but benefit all eternity (Matthew 6:19-20).
This truth is played out over and over in so many promises we Christians love to claim... that God causes all things to work together for good (Ro 8:28), that He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not freely give us all things (Ro 8:32), and I could go on and on. However, often we take these verses out of context. If we continue reading to verse 29, we will find that "our good" is "to become conformed into the image of His son"
(Ro 8:29). In the same respect, God will freely give us all things that are necessary to bring fulfillment of the work begun at the cross (2 Peter 1:3). God loves us, and will take what Satan meant for evil and turn it around for good, but it is our eternity that He cares about. He loves us too much to not bless us eternally.
So, how do we find true and lasting security? We must answer this question, what is most important to you? Where do your treasures lie? Is it God, or earthly possessions, earthly relationships, etc. If God's glory and renown is most important to you, you will have perfect peace (Isaiah 26:3). When we realize that we are owed nothing except death and condemnation (Ro 3:23, Ro 6:23), anything above and beyond that is simple and complete blessing. We are sinners, but Christ died for us, that is all we need.
You may ask, how do I KNOW that my perspective is right and Holy? If God never blessed you with another thing, if all you had was taken away - even your family - would you still choose Him? Would you still praise Him? Would you still bless His Holy Name? That is how you know.
My Daddy's death rocked my world. Gone was childish innocence that nothing too bad would ever happen to me. Insecurity and fear have fought hard to characterize my life. However, a new realization has washed over me as well. No mater what happens, even if the surgeon came out of the room to say my husband did not make it, it would NOT be easy, but I would be okay. I have the Lord, He loves me, He girds me with strength, eternity can never be taken away, and I will see my loved ones again. Granted, this is not easy and I pray no tragedy befalls my family, that my husband and I have a lifetime of togetherness, but God must be my rock and eternity must be my purpose. "The Lord knows the days of the blameless, and their inheritance will be forever" (Psalm 37:18).
Sunday, March 28, 2010
God's Timetable or Yours?
Acts 28:11-20 and Philippians 1:12-14 (Click on reference to read the text)
Paul desired to preach the Gospel above all else. He wanted to live a passionate, meaningful life for the Lord. He was one of those that prayed, “Use me extravagantly for your Kingdom, or take me home.” And, as a result, I don’t know of many Christians whose influence can rival that of Paul.
All of this said, Paul spent a huge majority of his time in prison. From a worldly viewpoint, if I was Paul, I would be praying and questioning the will of the Father, wondering if God was still in control. In his limited knowledge of what was best, as Paul often wrote especially in the book of Romans, his main objective was go to different groups of people and preach the Gospel. That was the chief desire of Paul in order to be most impactful for Christ.
But as Isaiah 55 talks about, God’s ways are so much higher than our ways, and God’s thoughts are so much higher than our thoughts. Paul wanted to see the nations come to know Christ, and he figured the best way was to preach. However, I am glad that Paul’s plans were foiled by something as carnal as prison. You see, Paul was thinking small. You may laugh at that statement, because Paul was thinking about saving the entire world, but he was thinking small. You see God wanted to save the generations of the world.
If Paul got his way of what he believed was best, many people IN HIS TIME truly would have come to know the Lord, the churches would have been built, and God’s name would be glorified. However, God wanted the nations for ALL TIME!!! So instead of letting Paul preach continuously and without hindrance, God placed him in prison so He would have to write. And what did he do? He wrote a lot of the New Testament so that you and I may know the Lord better, may grow in Christian wisdom and knowledge, and may serve the Lord more effectively. If God would have allowed Paul to preach all the time, you and I may not have had a lot of the New Testament to read about our Father. In this way, Paul is preaching for all time, not just his time.
Do you feel like you have been robbed of an incredible opportunity for the Kingdom? Are you questioning God's method and direction for your life? I understand how hard it is to pursue Christ and His will only to be turned around 180 degrees. It is heart breaking, gut wrenching, and soul suffocating, but don't fall into Satan's trap. Don't stop believing that God is on the throne, running the show, that His plan is perfect. He is sovereign. Be faithful where you are, who knows, God may use you beyond your wildest imagination and reach!
Paul desired to preach the Gospel above all else. He wanted to live a passionate, meaningful life for the Lord. He was one of those that prayed, “Use me extravagantly for your Kingdom, or take me home.” And, as a result, I don’t know of many Christians whose influence can rival that of Paul.
All of this said, Paul spent a huge majority of his time in prison. From a worldly viewpoint, if I was Paul, I would be praying and questioning the will of the Father, wondering if God was still in control. In his limited knowledge of what was best, as Paul often wrote especially in the book of Romans, his main objective was go to different groups of people and preach the Gospel. That was the chief desire of Paul in order to be most impactful for Christ.
But as Isaiah 55 talks about, God’s ways are so much higher than our ways, and God’s thoughts are so much higher than our thoughts. Paul wanted to see the nations come to know Christ, and he figured the best way was to preach. However, I am glad that Paul’s plans were foiled by something as carnal as prison. You see, Paul was thinking small. You may laugh at that statement, because Paul was thinking about saving the entire world, but he was thinking small. You see God wanted to save the generations of the world.
If Paul got his way of what he believed was best, many people IN HIS TIME truly would have come to know the Lord, the churches would have been built, and God’s name would be glorified. However, God wanted the nations for ALL TIME!!! So instead of letting Paul preach continuously and without hindrance, God placed him in prison so He would have to write. And what did he do? He wrote a lot of the New Testament so that you and I may know the Lord better, may grow in Christian wisdom and knowledge, and may serve the Lord more effectively. If God would have allowed Paul to preach all the time, you and I may not have had a lot of the New Testament to read about our Father. In this way, Paul is preaching for all time, not just his time.
Do you feel like you have been robbed of an incredible opportunity for the Kingdom? Are you questioning God's method and direction for your life? I understand how hard it is to pursue Christ and His will only to be turned around 180 degrees. It is heart breaking, gut wrenching, and soul suffocating, but don't fall into Satan's trap. Don't stop believing that God is on the throne, running the show, that His plan is perfect. He is sovereign. Be faithful where you are, who knows, God may use you beyond your wildest imagination and reach!
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