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
Showing posts with label Perseverance. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Perseverance. Show all posts
Saturday, February 25, 2012
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
Friday, December 9, 2011
Are You Living in "Plan B"?
Luke 2:1-7
Have you ever felt like you had to be living in "Plan B"? That somewhere along the way, something must have happened that took you out of God's perfect will and placed you on an alternate path? I don't think you are the first person who has ever wondered that.
Luke 2:3-7 finds Mary and Joseph on a three day journey to Bethlehem. Not by choice, but because Caesar declared it. When they arrived there was no place for them to stay, Mary was going into labor, so they found the best place possible: a stable full of animals. Here she is carrying the Messiah and Redeemer of Israel, surrounded my animals and in a strange place.
However, God in His great sovereignty was not scrambling around the Heavens trying to make something good out of Caesar's decree. He was not trying to figure out how to find them a room in a real inn or what to do to increase their comfort. He was working out the eternal salvation for everyone in the world. Mary and Joseph's circumstances were larger than a night in a stable or a decree by Caesar. God was working out His Plan A!
You may be wondering, "yeah God was doing that for Mary, He didn't forget about her, after all she was carrying Jesus. Of course he had a plan for her! What about little me?" The Bible Says:
Have you ever felt like you had to be living in "Plan B"? That somewhere along the way, something must have happened that took you out of God's perfect will and placed you on an alternate path? I don't think you are the first person who has ever wondered that.
Luke 2:3-7 finds Mary and Joseph on a three day journey to Bethlehem. Not by choice, but because Caesar declared it. When they arrived there was no place for them to stay, Mary was going into labor, so they found the best place possible: a stable full of animals. Here she is carrying the Messiah and Redeemer of Israel, surrounded my animals and in a strange place.
However, God in His great sovereignty was not scrambling around the Heavens trying to make something good out of Caesar's decree. He was not trying to figure out how to find them a room in a real inn or what to do to increase their comfort. He was working out the eternal salvation for everyone in the world. Mary and Joseph's circumstances were larger than a night in a stable or a decree by Caesar. God was working out His Plan A!
You may be wondering, "yeah God was doing that for Mary, He didn't forget about her, after all she was carrying Jesus. Of course he had a plan for her! What about little me?" The Bible Says:
- The Lord has searched you and knows you. He know when you sit down and when you rise up; He understands your thought from afar. He is intimately acquainted with all your ways. Even before there is a word on your tongue, He knows it all. He has enclosed you behind and before. He has formed your inwards parts and woven you together from your mother's womb. You are fearfully and wonderfully made! All of your days were written in His book. All of your days were ordained before one of them came to be (Psalm 139)
- Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. (Luke 12:6-7)
- For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them (Eph 2:10)
- If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. (1 Peter 4:11)
- So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God (1 Cor 10:31)
- Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name. Bring an offering and come before him; worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness (1 Chron 16:29)
- Or follow the actions of Jesus, "Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” (Mathew 26:39)
Are you viewing God in light of your circumstances or are you looking at your circumstances in light of who God is. Mary in a stable, Daniel in a Lion's Den, Joseph in jail cell, Moses in a dessert, and so many other heroes of the faith could have felt forgotten, ignored, or cast off. They may have begun wondering if God was scrambling to make a "Plan B" in order to guarantee that He works "all things for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose" (Ro 8:28). Yet don't forget verse 29, that God's purpose is to conform you to the likeness of His son! (Ro 8:29).
Your life may seem crazy right now. It may seem like nothing is working out. You may be full of fear, doubt and grief wondering where God is in all of this. However, I assure you God is still in control. If you are His child, He still has a purpose for you. You still count to Him. He hasn't forgotten you, just like He didn't forget a teenage girl and her fiance sleeping with animals in a cave amongst the crowds in Bethlehem. They were living in the center of His will, it may have been hard, but they were never alone. Keep plugging away for your Savior. Do what He has called you to today. Who knows when the angels may burst into your life proclaiming, "Glory to God in the Highest! And on earth, peace among men with whom He is pleased!"
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."
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Staying the Course... Do You Even Know the Course?
Acts 20:18-24 (Please click on reference to read text)
When I read the book of Acts, I look at the lives of Peter, Paul, Luke, Timothy, Silas, Lydia and wonder how did they keep their focus? How did they make their lives count for Christ so that 2000 years later I even know their names? How did the distractions of life not make them falter? I daily fight the battle of figuring out how to be a good steward of my time, knowing when to say yes and when to say no, or even identifying what is the most important. Then I read Acts 20:24, "But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God," and suddenly life became a lot more clear.
In order to "Stay the Course" we must first ask ourselves, "Do I know God's calling on my life?" This is not the time to spout the Christian/Piper answer "to glorify God and enjoy Him forever." That is all well and good, but I am asking, what is God's call on your life? Can you name specific things you know He has asked you to do, to be, to take care of, etc. so that you can glorify Him? When I sat down and prayerfully asked myself this question I truly waited on God's reply. He gave me three very specific things that I know He has asked me to do. You must start here. Paul KNEW! Paul knew why God had put him on the earth. He was to "testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God." Go ahead and ask. Wait for His answer. Write it down!
Secondly, after knowing God's call on our specific life, we must ask ourselves what are we doing about it? How are you "finishing the course" as Paul put it in Acts 20:24. Look at each thing you know God has asked you to do, to be, to take care of... remember what God has asked of you, not the church, not your friends, but God. In each of these areas, where do you stand and how do you measure up?
Finally, we must ask our self the hardest question of all, am I choosing to love my life more than following Him? In each of the areas I identified, I saw major areas in which I was falling short. In each of those areas there was one common theme as to why... selfishness. There were things I wanted to do, things I wanted to pursue, things I thought were good and important, but that were impeding the work God was wanting to do in my life and through my life. Without fail every time I had an attitude breakdown or fell short, it was because I "considered my life more dear to myself" than finishing the course.
The "Founding Fathers" of the church had jobs, had families, had commitment and responsibilities, yet they lived lives that counted for the only thing that lasts forever. We can too. We have the same promise of the Holy Spirit and power to obey. Do you have a clear focus of what God is calling you to do? How are you doing in those areas? If things come up that are not aligned in what God is calling you to... time to say No! Let's stay the course and when we come to the end of our life may we be able to say with Paul, "But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus."
When I read the book of Acts, I look at the lives of Peter, Paul, Luke, Timothy, Silas, Lydia and wonder how did they keep their focus? How did they make their lives count for Christ so that 2000 years later I even know their names? How did the distractions of life not make them falter? I daily fight the battle of figuring out how to be a good steward of my time, knowing when to say yes and when to say no, or even identifying what is the most important. Then I read Acts 20:24, "But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God," and suddenly life became a lot more clear.
In order to "Stay the Course" we must first ask ourselves, "Do I know God's calling on my life?" This is not the time to spout the Christian/Piper answer "to glorify God and enjoy Him forever." That is all well and good, but I am asking, what is God's call on your life? Can you name specific things you know He has asked you to do, to be, to take care of, etc. so that you can glorify Him? When I sat down and prayerfully asked myself this question I truly waited on God's reply. He gave me three very specific things that I know He has asked me to do. You must start here. Paul KNEW! Paul knew why God had put him on the earth. He was to "testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God." Go ahead and ask. Wait for His answer. Write it down!
Secondly, after knowing God's call on our specific life, we must ask ourselves what are we doing about it? How are you "finishing the course" as Paul put it in Acts 20:24. Look at each thing you know God has asked you to do, to be, to take care of... remember what God has asked of you, not the church, not your friends, but God. In each of these areas, where do you stand and how do you measure up?
Finally, we must ask our self the hardest question of all, am I choosing to love my life more than following Him? In each of the areas I identified, I saw major areas in which I was falling short. In each of those areas there was one common theme as to why... selfishness. There were things I wanted to do, things I wanted to pursue, things I thought were good and important, but that were impeding the work God was wanting to do in my life and through my life. Without fail every time I had an attitude breakdown or fell short, it was because I "considered my life more dear to myself" than finishing the course.
The "Founding Fathers" of the church had jobs, had families, had commitment and responsibilities, yet they lived lives that counted for the only thing that lasts forever. We can too. We have the same promise of the Holy Spirit and power to obey. Do you have a clear focus of what God is calling you to do? How are you doing in those areas? If things come up that are not aligned in what God is calling you to... time to say No! Let's stay the course and when we come to the end of our life may we be able to say with Paul, "But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus."
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?
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!
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Armed for Battle...
Relational conflict is a guarantee. Whether you find yourself in the role of husband, wife, father, mother, child, or sibling, you will experience conflict with those you love at one time or another. Before we start battling those we love the most, let's remember a few things.
First, it is important during these battles to remember who you are fighting. The Scriptures tell us that our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, powers and authorities of this dark world (Eph 6:12). Satan desires to destroy the family because he knows, "if a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand (Mark 3:25)." Jesus himself warned us, "be on alert. Your adversary the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour" (1 Peter 5:8). It is so easy to see the enemy as the family member that appears to be choosing to make your life miserable at the time. Instead we must stop, realize that you and that person are on the same team, recognize the real enemy, and join forces.
Now that you are back on the same team, it is time to remember, you have a mighty ally! The Lord our God has told us numerous times that He will fight our battles for us (2 Chron 32:8, Ex 14:14, Ps 17:6-8, Is 41:9-14). He is our defender, our protector, and our deliverer. We know if the Lord is for us, who can stand against us (Ro 8:31)? Praise the Lord that He is fighting on our side!
Lastly, we need to use the right weapons. Our relationship with Jesus Christ alone enables us to be more than conquerors in Christ Jesus (Ro 8:37). His blood and testimony in our life allows us to overcome the strongest powers of Satan (Rev 12:11). We have weapons of warfare with the power to demolish strongholds (2 Cor 10:4)!! When we put on the full armor of God we CAN stand against the devils schemes (Eph 6:11): the belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, feet fitted with the Gospel of peace, pick up the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation and the sword of the spirit which are the very words of God (Eph 6). When we are seeking out truth, when our hearts are protected with the righteousness of who we are in Christ, when we are grounded in the grace of the gospel, when our faith and trust in our God is our shield, when His salvation protects our minds, and when we have the Words of God, we cannot fail.
1 John 4:4 states, "You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. " Your family can overcome. Your marriage can overcome. You can have a solid relationship with your children. Remember you are on the same team. Arm up together and fight the one who simply cannot win!
First, it is important during these battles to remember who you are fighting. The Scriptures tell us that our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, powers and authorities of this dark world (Eph 6:12). Satan desires to destroy the family because he knows, "if a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand (Mark 3:25)." Jesus himself warned us, "be on alert. Your adversary the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour" (1 Peter 5:8). It is so easy to see the enemy as the family member that appears to be choosing to make your life miserable at the time. Instead we must stop, realize that you and that person are on the same team, recognize the real enemy, and join forces.
Now that you are back on the same team, it is time to remember, you have a mighty ally! The Lord our God has told us numerous times that He will fight our battles for us (2 Chron 32:8, Ex 14:14, Ps 17:6-8, Is 41:9-14). He is our defender, our protector, and our deliverer. We know if the Lord is for us, who can stand against us (Ro 8:31)? Praise the Lord that He is fighting on our side!
Lastly, we need to use the right weapons. Our relationship with Jesus Christ alone enables us to be more than conquerors in Christ Jesus (Ro 8:37). His blood and testimony in our life allows us to overcome the strongest powers of Satan (Rev 12:11). We have weapons of warfare with the power to demolish strongholds (2 Cor 10:4)!! When we put on the full armor of God we CAN stand against the devils schemes (Eph 6:11): the belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, feet fitted with the Gospel of peace, pick up the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation and the sword of the spirit which are the very words of God (Eph 6). When we are seeking out truth, when our hearts are protected with the righteousness of who we are in Christ, when we are grounded in the grace of the gospel, when our faith and trust in our God is our shield, when His salvation protects our minds, and when we have the Words of God, we cannot fail.
1 John 4:4 states, "You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. " Your family can overcome. Your marriage can overcome. You can have a solid relationship with your children. Remember you are on the same team. Arm up together and fight the one who simply cannot win!
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.
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)
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Jesus is Alive...
Mark 16:1-7 (Click on reference to read text)
"Jesus is Alive!" These were the precious words of my two year old the other day. Talk about making a Mama's heart soar! The greatest act the world has ever known, the crux of our entire faith, the one point in history that changed things forever... Jesus is alive! Yet, as Hebrews tells us, the Word of God is living and active (Heb 4:12), and as I have been reading this story often recently, the Lord has really challenged me in new ways.
In the very beginning of this chapter, we see these dedicated women going to a tomb (vs.1). I can just picture them huddled together, talking in low whispers, doing what they knew they needed to do, walking to a place that seemed like the last step of a failed mission. This was not the way it was supposed to turn out. The Messiah was supposed to come and set them free from Roman oppressions. However, even though things did not turn out exactly like they thought, they did not turn their back on Jesus. They showed Him the honor He deserved. As we think about these women, we must ask our self, "do we have a tendency to turn our back on God when things don't look like we want them to?" Do we walk towards Christ during these times, or turn away?
Second we see that these women had correct priorities. They came as soon as possible... "very early on the first day of the week" (vs.2). They did not delay in honoring Christ. They did not stall until they got the dishes done, laundry washed, children fed... they went first thing. Where is God in our priorities? Is He the first thing to be neglected?
Third, these women teach us to come to Christ before we have it all figured out. They were walking to the tomb and they didn't know how everything was going to fall into place. As they were walking, they were asking each other, "who will roll away the stone for us?"(vs.3). So many times I want to wait until everything is lined up perfectly. Every detail is hashed out and prepared for. Every scenario has a plan and solution. However, these women obeyed and honored God, and then trusted Him with the details, and guess what? He came through! When they got to the tomb they saw the stone rolled away (vs. 4)! Do we give God the opportunity to roll away the stones in our path? If we never take the first step in obedience, we can never see His hand provide the way!
This leads us to our fourth lesson... when God provides the way, go for it! We don't see them hesitate at the tomb, email all their friends about the options and if they should go for it, and they don't have a prayer meeting. They knew they were supposed to be with Christ, they were walking in obedience to Him, so when He made a way they went on in (vs.5) looking for their Savior (vs.6). When we know God is calling us to something, do we obey or hesitate? If God calls you, He will equip you and provide the way.
Lastly we see the sweet hand of our wonderful Savior. The angel told them where to find their Jesus (vs.7). God wants those looking for Him to find Him. God tells us in Proverbs 8:17, "I love those who love me; and those who diligently seek me will find me." Jeremiah 29:13 says, "you will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." God does not hide himself from those seeking Him. However, we must search for Him in such a way to find him... with our whole heart. Go where He is, even if it seems like a monumental task. These women weren't seeking God's hand, what He could do for Him, they were just seeking Him, His presence, in order to bring Him honor and respect.
Did these women know that 2,000 years later another seeker of the Savior would read about this walk to a graveyard and contemplate their courage, their faith, and their perseverance? No, I am sure that didn't even cross their minds. They were just seeking out the man that offered everything, even though they didn't understand, they knew they had to be near Him. May I have that same desire, that same drive, that same need that calls me to His side.
"Jesus is Alive!" These were the precious words of my two year old the other day. Talk about making a Mama's heart soar! The greatest act the world has ever known, the crux of our entire faith, the one point in history that changed things forever... Jesus is alive! Yet, as Hebrews tells us, the Word of God is living and active (Heb 4:12), and as I have been reading this story often recently, the Lord has really challenged me in new ways.
In the very beginning of this chapter, we see these dedicated women going to a tomb (vs.1). I can just picture them huddled together, talking in low whispers, doing what they knew they needed to do, walking to a place that seemed like the last step of a failed mission. This was not the way it was supposed to turn out. The Messiah was supposed to come and set them free from Roman oppressions. However, even though things did not turn out exactly like they thought, they did not turn their back on Jesus. They showed Him the honor He deserved. As we think about these women, we must ask our self, "do we have a tendency to turn our back on God when things don't look like we want them to?" Do we walk towards Christ during these times, or turn away?
Second we see that these women had correct priorities. They came as soon as possible... "very early on the first day of the week" (vs.2). They did not delay in honoring Christ. They did not stall until they got the dishes done, laundry washed, children fed... they went first thing. Where is God in our priorities? Is He the first thing to be neglected?
Third, these women teach us to come to Christ before we have it all figured out. They were walking to the tomb and they didn't know how everything was going to fall into place. As they were walking, they were asking each other, "who will roll away the stone for us?"(vs.3). So many times I want to wait until everything is lined up perfectly. Every detail is hashed out and prepared for. Every scenario has a plan and solution. However, these women obeyed and honored God, and then trusted Him with the details, and guess what? He came through! When they got to the tomb they saw the stone rolled away (vs. 4)! Do we give God the opportunity to roll away the stones in our path? If we never take the first step in obedience, we can never see His hand provide the way!
This leads us to our fourth lesson... when God provides the way, go for it! We don't see them hesitate at the tomb, email all their friends about the options and if they should go for it, and they don't have a prayer meeting. They knew they were supposed to be with Christ, they were walking in obedience to Him, so when He made a way they went on in (vs.5) looking for their Savior (vs.6). When we know God is calling us to something, do we obey or hesitate? If God calls you, He will equip you and provide the way.
Lastly we see the sweet hand of our wonderful Savior. The angel told them where to find their Jesus (vs.7). God wants those looking for Him to find Him. God tells us in Proverbs 8:17, "I love those who love me; and those who diligently seek me will find me." Jeremiah 29:13 says, "you will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." God does not hide himself from those seeking Him. However, we must search for Him in such a way to find him... with our whole heart. Go where He is, even if it seems like a monumental task. These women weren't seeking God's hand, what He could do for Him, they were just seeking Him, His presence, in order to bring Him honor and respect.
Did these women know that 2,000 years later another seeker of the Savior would read about this walk to a graveyard and contemplate their courage, their faith, and their perseverance? No, I am sure that didn't even cross their minds. They were just seeking out the man that offered everything, even though they didn't understand, they knew they had to be near Him. May I have that same desire, that same drive, that same need that calls me to His side.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Why does God Allow Bad to Happen?
Philippians 3:7-20 (Click on reference to read text)
One of the most common arguments against Christ is, "how could a loving God allow such bad things to happen to good people?" I have heard this argument countless times. Maybe you have thought this question to yourself regarding your own personal circumstances. When bad things happen, often times we begin to question God's total sovereignty, we wonder if maybe somehow Satan got the victory in that circumstance. But what if we were able to step back and listen? What might Christ be trying to tell us?
Paul understood trying times, (read 2 Cor 11:24-27 if you want a taste of what he went through) yet through it all, he writes to the Philippians, "I count all things loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ" (vs.8). Through his sufferings, his goal was to gain Christ, to know HIM (vs. 10). He did not seek Christ's blessings, his hand working on behalf of his circumstances, not even his will and direction for the future, but Christ as a person... just who He is! Can you say this? Can you say that in your trials you are seeking the "righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith, that you may KNOW HIM and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings?" (vs.9-10).
However, instead of responding like Paul we often begin to question if Satan won. If somehow he bested God and won. Let me tell you, the only way that Satan can get victory in your life if you are a Child of God and washed in the blood of the Lamb, is if YOU LET HIM! As soon as we give in to how we feel and become bitter or angry at God, it is at that moment that Satan wins. It is Satan's goal to steal, to kill and to destroy the saints of God (John 10:10). It grieves the Holy Spirit when we harbor bitterness in our hearts (Eph 4:30-32) and God commands that we do not allow a root of bitterness to spring up in our life (Heb 12:15), because a bitter and broken spirit just takes the life out of you (Prov 17:22). God desires us to have life and life to the full! Beware of becoming like Job's wife, who said to Job, "Are you still holding on to your integrity? Curse God and die!"(Job 2:9). Hold on to your integrity, hold on to God, because I promise He is still holding on to you!
So why? If Satan did not get the victory, and God is truly sovereign over the details of my life, why? I believe if nothing else, than for this one simple truth: if bad things never happened, we would never long for Heaven. We would never focus on the eternal, we would never long for the presence of our Heavenly Father who gave everything for us. Just imagine if all was well, everything was wonderful and you lived a life of no fear, no worry, no hardship... would you ever long for Jesus and the home He has prepared for you?
If you are like me, you are asking, "well, okay, what now?" Sing a sacrifice of praise (Hebrews 13:15). I know you don't feel like praising God. My heart did not want to praise God when he took my Daddy suddenly home to Heaven this past Christmas Eve, my heart did not want to praise God when I talked to my brother just three months later as he was watching his newborn son lying in the NICU, but we must. God loves us too much to let our hearts love this world. He loves us too much to allow us to spend our lives focusing on things that are temporal and not the eternal. Remember, He gave everything to reunite us to Him!
Let us echo Paul in Philippians 1:21, "to live is Christ." Christ was crucified. Christ sacrificed His life for the purpose and will of the Father. However, Paul goes on to say, "to die is gain"... gaining our eternal reward, with our Eternal Father.
One of the most common arguments against Christ is, "how could a loving God allow such bad things to happen to good people?" I have heard this argument countless times. Maybe you have thought this question to yourself regarding your own personal circumstances. When bad things happen, often times we begin to question God's total sovereignty, we wonder if maybe somehow Satan got the victory in that circumstance. But what if we were able to step back and listen? What might Christ be trying to tell us?
Paul understood trying times, (read 2 Cor 11:24-27 if you want a taste of what he went through) yet through it all, he writes to the Philippians, "I count all things loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them but rubbish so that I may gain Christ" (vs.8). Through his sufferings, his goal was to gain Christ, to know HIM (vs. 10). He did not seek Christ's blessings, his hand working on behalf of his circumstances, not even his will and direction for the future, but Christ as a person... just who He is! Can you say this? Can you say that in your trials you are seeking the "righteousness which comes from God on the basis of faith, that you may KNOW HIM and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings?" (vs.9-10).
However, instead of responding like Paul we often begin to question if Satan won. If somehow he bested God and won. Let me tell you, the only way that Satan can get victory in your life if you are a Child of God and washed in the blood of the Lamb, is if YOU LET HIM! As soon as we give in to how we feel and become bitter or angry at God, it is at that moment that Satan wins. It is Satan's goal to steal, to kill and to destroy the saints of God (John 10:10). It grieves the Holy Spirit when we harbor bitterness in our hearts (Eph 4:30-32) and God commands that we do not allow a root of bitterness to spring up in our life (Heb 12:15), because a bitter and broken spirit just takes the life out of you (Prov 17:22). God desires us to have life and life to the full! Beware of becoming like Job's wife, who said to Job, "Are you still holding on to your integrity? Curse God and die!"(Job 2:9). Hold on to your integrity, hold on to God, because I promise He is still holding on to you!
So why? If Satan did not get the victory, and God is truly sovereign over the details of my life, why? I believe if nothing else, than for this one simple truth: if bad things never happened, we would never long for Heaven. We would never focus on the eternal, we would never long for the presence of our Heavenly Father who gave everything for us. Just imagine if all was well, everything was wonderful and you lived a life of no fear, no worry, no hardship... would you ever long for Jesus and the home He has prepared for you?
If you are like me, you are asking, "well, okay, what now?" Sing a sacrifice of praise (Hebrews 13:15). I know you don't feel like praising God. My heart did not want to praise God when he took my Daddy suddenly home to Heaven this past Christmas Eve, my heart did not want to praise God when I talked to my brother just three months later as he was watching his newborn son lying in the NICU, but we must. God loves us too much to let our hearts love this world. He loves us too much to allow us to spend our lives focusing on things that are temporal and not the eternal. Remember, He gave everything to reunite us to Him!
Let us echo Paul in Philippians 1:21, "to live is Christ." Christ was crucified. Christ sacrificed His life for the purpose and will of the Father. However, Paul goes on to say, "to die is gain"... gaining our eternal reward, with our Eternal Father.
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!
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Who is Lord of Your Imagination?
Isaiah 26:3-4 (Click on reference to read text)
July 4th, 2008, our little family of three at the time, went to a concert in a ball park in town. It started out as a beautiful day, when all of a sudden a horrible storm rolled in. We immediately ran into the concourse and huddled against the wall. The sky was turning green, lightening struck the ballpark putting us in complete darkness, it was pouring and the wind was tremendous. So here I was with my husband, my little baby (7 mos. old at the time), wondering if we were about to get sucked up into a tornado. However, the most beautiful thing happened... our baby girl fell asleep in my husband's arms. Yes, the storms were raging all around her, yet she slept. She knew her Daddy had her, so she was going to be okay, despite her circumstances.
In Isaiah 26, our Heavenly Father promises to keep us in perfect peace, if we keep our mind steadfast on Him (vs. 3). To remain steadfast is not to waiver, doubt or worry. The revised version uses the wording, "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose IMAGINATION is stayed on Thee." We must keep our thoughts and even our day dreams stayed on the solid rock. It will do no good to wonder about the what ifs, to imagine ever possible scenario and outcome of our situation, to try to figure out every possible answer to anything that might arise... just keep your mind, your thoughts and imagination stayed on the Father above. The Lord commands us to take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ (2 Cor 10:5).
So what do we think about? How do we control the roller coaster of our imagination and our what ifs? Philippians 4:8 says, "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." Don't worry about the future. What is true in your life right now? Praise Him for it. (For example: are you worried about losing your job? Praise him for the truth that right now you have a job) It is our choice. We must choose to trust in the Lord FOREVER, for He is our Rock eternal (vs. 4).
If the "what ifs" happen, and sometimes they will, believe that He is good. PERIOD. God is good, period. He loves you, has your best interest at heart, and promises to use that situation for your ultimate good (Ro. 8:28). Say it with your mouth until you believe it in your heart.
I could cry thinking about my baby girl asleep in her Daddy's arms and then picturing myself in perfect peace in my Heavenly Father's arms. During these crazy times that we are living in now, it is so easy to freak out and feel so disturbed and full of unrest, for there really are some serious storms raging around us. Yet WE ARE IN OUR FATHER'S ARMS!!! So rest, your Daddy is in control!
July 4th, 2008, our little family of three at the time, went to a concert in a ball park in town. It started out as a beautiful day, when all of a sudden a horrible storm rolled in. We immediately ran into the concourse and huddled against the wall. The sky was turning green, lightening struck the ballpark putting us in complete darkness, it was pouring and the wind was tremendous. So here I was with my husband, my little baby (7 mos. old at the time), wondering if we were about to get sucked up into a tornado. However, the most beautiful thing happened... our baby girl fell asleep in my husband's arms. Yes, the storms were raging all around her, yet she slept. She knew her Daddy had her, so she was going to be okay, despite her circumstances.
In Isaiah 26, our Heavenly Father promises to keep us in perfect peace, if we keep our mind steadfast on Him (vs. 3). To remain steadfast is not to waiver, doubt or worry. The revised version uses the wording, "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose IMAGINATION is stayed on Thee." We must keep our thoughts and even our day dreams stayed on the solid rock. It will do no good to wonder about the what ifs, to imagine ever possible scenario and outcome of our situation, to try to figure out every possible answer to anything that might arise... just keep your mind, your thoughts and imagination stayed on the Father above. The Lord commands us to take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ (2 Cor 10:5).
So what do we think about? How do we control the roller coaster of our imagination and our what ifs? Philippians 4:8 says, "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." Don't worry about the future. What is true in your life right now? Praise Him for it. (For example: are you worried about losing your job? Praise him for the truth that right now you have a job) It is our choice. We must choose to trust in the Lord FOREVER, for He is our Rock eternal (vs. 4).
If the "what ifs" happen, and sometimes they will, believe that He is good. PERIOD. God is good, period. He loves you, has your best interest at heart, and promises to use that situation for your ultimate good (Ro. 8:28). Say it with your mouth until you believe it in your heart.
I could cry thinking about my baby girl asleep in her Daddy's arms and then picturing myself in perfect peace in my Heavenly Father's arms. During these crazy times that we are living in now, it is so easy to freak out and feel so disturbed and full of unrest, for there really are some serious storms raging around us. Yet WE ARE IN OUR FATHER'S ARMS!!! So rest, your Daddy is in control!
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Which will you choose: Victory or Defeat?
Isaiah 41:8-13 (Click on reference to read text)
Some of you may read this and say, the passage only relates to Israel. However, in Scripture, we are told, "if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise "(Galatians 3:29). Therefore, we can look at these Scriptures and see how it applies to us.
Two weeks ago, I found myself broken, tired, stressed, depressed, and to the point of just wanting to give up. It seemed like each new day was bringing on more trouble - serious trouble- and it was just getting to the point that I wasn't sure I could handle anymore. Have you ever been there? If so, it is time we remembered just WHOSE we are!
The Lord, God of Heaven and Earth, the Creator, the Beginning and the End, the Ancient of Days, CHOSE YOU! "You whom (God) has taken from the ends of the earth, and called from its remotest parts and said to you, "you are my servant, I have chosen you and not rejected you" (vs. 9) We will quickly sink and lose our perspective when we forget this monumental, yet simple truth. You are not walking alone, you are not 1 among 6 billion people, and don't matter to anyone. You were chosen by God. He knows you so intimately that he even knows the amount of hairs on your head, nothing happens to you that escapes his notice (Matthew 10:29-31).
Second, we need to stop walking and fighting in our own strength. You did not make the world, and you don't have to fight the world! The Lord commands us, notice I said commands - not requests, mentions, or suggests - "Do not fear, for I am with you!" (vs. 10). When we allow our self to be overcome by fear, we are inevitably communicating to God that we don't think He is big enough or loves us enough to work out His best in our life. Can you imagine, telling the Father, the one who did not even spare His own Son but condemned him to die so that we may become righteous (John 3:16, 2 Cor 5:21), that He is untrustworthy?
The Lord continues to tell us, "do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely, I will help you" (vs. 10). The troubles of this world mount up when we take our eyes off Jesus and begin to "anxiously look about." It is during these times of intense warfare and struggle, that we MUST keep our eyes on Jesus. He promises that he will strengthen us and help us. We must make a conscious choice to trust Him and wait for His help (Psalms 27:14).
And now my favorite part, "For I am the Lord your God, who upholds your right hand, who says to you, do not fear, I will help you" (vs. 13). The Lord holds my right hand, my strong hand. When the Lord is holding your strong hand, you cannot do the fighting. However, as he holds our strong hand, His "righteous right hand" is free. His strong hand is fighting for you. This is the place we need to be. Our eyes focused on Him and Him only, our hands clinging to his, not flailing wildly trying to defend and protect our own life/family. Here there is rest, and here there is victory.
Have all my troubles gone away, actually none of them have. The situations are still the same, however I am choosing to walk in victory, because I know the battle is not mine, the battle is the Lord's (Eph 6:11-13). Join me, LET GO and LET HIM fight, for victory belongs to the Lord! (Proverbs 21:30-31)
If you need to be encouraged, or are interested in learning more about the powerful hand of God in our life, check out these passages: Psalm 16:8, 17:7, 18:35, 37:24, 44:3, 60:5, 63:8, 73:23, 121:5-6, 139:9-10.
Real quick, I feel like I need to write the practical way this works out in "real life." First, start praising God. This puts your eyes on Him. Tell Him with your mouth, who He is, praise Him for what He is done. This glorifies Him, and strengthens you. It reminds you who He is and what He has done. There is POWER in praise. Satan cannot stand against it. Second, start praying Scripture over yourself, your situation, and your family. If you want to pray the Will of God, you need to pray the Word of God. Third, let go and just start walking. The situation may not change, but your heart can and the way you look at it can. Go about your day. Continue cleaning the house, playing with your kids... when the problem rears its ugly head, start the process all over again. You will see victory. If your situation doesn't change, your attitude can. God wants His best for you, He is sovereign and will work things out to His end. He is a loving Father, and we can trust that His will is best. It is not easy. It is a daily, hourly, minute and sometimes second by second battle. But HE HAS ALREADY WON, and if you have been washed in the blood of Christ, YOU HAVE ALREADY WON! (Romans 8:26-39)
Some of you may read this and say, the passage only relates to Israel. However, in Scripture, we are told, "if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise "(Galatians 3:29). Therefore, we can look at these Scriptures and see how it applies to us.
Two weeks ago, I found myself broken, tired, stressed, depressed, and to the point of just wanting to give up. It seemed like each new day was bringing on more trouble - serious trouble- and it was just getting to the point that I wasn't sure I could handle anymore. Have you ever been there? If so, it is time we remembered just WHOSE we are!
The Lord, God of Heaven and Earth, the Creator, the Beginning and the End, the Ancient of Days, CHOSE YOU! "You whom (God) has taken from the ends of the earth, and called from its remotest parts and said to you, "you are my servant, I have chosen you and not rejected you" (vs. 9) We will quickly sink and lose our perspective when we forget this monumental, yet simple truth. You are not walking alone, you are not 1 among 6 billion people, and don't matter to anyone. You were chosen by God. He knows you so intimately that he even knows the amount of hairs on your head, nothing happens to you that escapes his notice (Matthew 10:29-31).
Second, we need to stop walking and fighting in our own strength. You did not make the world, and you don't have to fight the world! The Lord commands us, notice I said commands - not requests, mentions, or suggests - "Do not fear, for I am with you!" (vs. 10). When we allow our self to be overcome by fear, we are inevitably communicating to God that we don't think He is big enough or loves us enough to work out His best in our life. Can you imagine, telling the Father, the one who did not even spare His own Son but condemned him to die so that we may become righteous (John 3:16, 2 Cor 5:21), that He is untrustworthy?
The Lord continues to tell us, "do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely, I will help you" (vs. 10). The troubles of this world mount up when we take our eyes off Jesus and begin to "anxiously look about." It is during these times of intense warfare and struggle, that we MUST keep our eyes on Jesus. He promises that he will strengthen us and help us. We must make a conscious choice to trust Him and wait for His help (Psalms 27:14).
And now my favorite part, "For I am the Lord your God, who upholds your right hand, who says to you, do not fear, I will help you" (vs. 13). The Lord holds my right hand, my strong hand. When the Lord is holding your strong hand, you cannot do the fighting. However, as he holds our strong hand, His "righteous right hand" is free. His strong hand is fighting for you. This is the place we need to be. Our eyes focused on Him and Him only, our hands clinging to his, not flailing wildly trying to defend and protect our own life/family. Here there is rest, and here there is victory.
Have all my troubles gone away, actually none of them have. The situations are still the same, however I am choosing to walk in victory, because I know the battle is not mine, the battle is the Lord's (Eph 6:11-13). Join me, LET GO and LET HIM fight, for victory belongs to the Lord! (Proverbs 21:30-31)
If you need to be encouraged, or are interested in learning more about the powerful hand of God in our life, check out these passages: Psalm 16:8, 17:7, 18:35, 37:24, 44:3, 60:5, 63:8, 73:23, 121:5-6, 139:9-10.
Real quick, I feel like I need to write the practical way this works out in "real life." First, start praising God. This puts your eyes on Him. Tell Him with your mouth, who He is, praise Him for what He is done. This glorifies Him, and strengthens you. It reminds you who He is and what He has done. There is POWER in praise. Satan cannot stand against it. Second, start praying Scripture over yourself, your situation, and your family. If you want to pray the Will of God, you need to pray the Word of God. Third, let go and just start walking. The situation may not change, but your heart can and the way you look at it can. Go about your day. Continue cleaning the house, playing with your kids... when the problem rears its ugly head, start the process all over again. You will see victory. If your situation doesn't change, your attitude can. God wants His best for you, He is sovereign and will work things out to His end. He is a loving Father, and we can trust that His will is best. It is not easy. It is a daily, hourly, minute and sometimes second by second battle. But HE HAS ALREADY WON, and if you have been washed in the blood of Christ, YOU HAVE ALREADY WON! (Romans 8:26-39)
Sunday, February 7, 2010
John 14:22-31 (Click on reference to read text)
Have you ever felt like you were drowning, and deep down, although you would never admit it, you feel like the Lord had something to do with it? This is exactly where the disciples found themselves. The Bible tells us that Jesus "made the disciples get in the boat and go ahead of Him to the other side" (vs. 22). They acted in obedience and found themselves in the middle of an overwhelming storm.
I've got to be honest, in the past few months, especially since Christmas, I'm there. I feel like I am "battered by the waves" (vs. 24) and "straining at the oars" (Mark 6:48) just to stay afloat. The situations that have arisen were not of my choosing, yet here I am. In the past week I have been treading water just to stay alive, but the most amazing thing has happened every time I feel my head going under, Jesus calls my name.
As a Christian, our highest calling is to be formed into the image of Christ. I have prayed innumerable times that the Lord would ruin everything in me that is not of Him and form me into His complete likeness. However, in order to do that, I have had to get in the boat of obedience, ride the storm, and keep my eyes on Him.
When we find ourselves in the middle of a raging storm, we need to remember we are never alone. Jesus is always right there by our side saying, "take courage, it is I, do not be afraid" (vs. 27). Like Peter, we only start to sink when we take our eyes off of the Savior and start focusing on the waves and wind blowing all around us.
So what do we do? Every moment you find yourself starting to be overwhelmed, ask yourself where are you looking? Are you staring intently into the eyes of your merciful and loving Savior? Just like a loving father teaches and guides his child, the Lord knows that if he never sends you into the storm, you will never have the opportunity to get out of the boat and walk on water. Take comfort in this, He is in the storm with you. He is there to strengthen you. He controls the winds and the waves, and will calm them in His time.
I continue to cling to His garments during this time and rely on the Promises found in His Word. The Lord is stretching my faith, humbling my pride, and breaking me. It is not easy and it is definitely not fun. However, I am learning that His grace is sufficient for me and His power is perfected in weakness (2 Cor 12:9) and that "He is near to the brokenhearted and comforts those who are crushed in spirit"(Psalms 34:18). Without this storm, I would never grow, never learn to "walk on water" in my Faith, and never have the opportunity to solely rely on my Savior. I have so much more to learn, but I can rest in this:
You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. (Isaiah 26:3)
Have you ever felt like you were drowning, and deep down, although you would never admit it, you feel like the Lord had something to do with it? This is exactly where the disciples found themselves. The Bible tells us that Jesus "made the disciples get in the boat and go ahead of Him to the other side" (vs. 22). They acted in obedience and found themselves in the middle of an overwhelming storm.
I've got to be honest, in the past few months, especially since Christmas, I'm there. I feel like I am "battered by the waves" (vs. 24) and "straining at the oars" (Mark 6:48) just to stay afloat. The situations that have arisen were not of my choosing, yet here I am. In the past week I have been treading water just to stay alive, but the most amazing thing has happened every time I feel my head going under, Jesus calls my name.
As a Christian, our highest calling is to be formed into the image of Christ. I have prayed innumerable times that the Lord would ruin everything in me that is not of Him and form me into His complete likeness. However, in order to do that, I have had to get in the boat of obedience, ride the storm, and keep my eyes on Him.
When we find ourselves in the middle of a raging storm, we need to remember we are never alone. Jesus is always right there by our side saying, "take courage, it is I, do not be afraid" (vs. 27). Like Peter, we only start to sink when we take our eyes off of the Savior and start focusing on the waves and wind blowing all around us.
So what do we do? Every moment you find yourself starting to be overwhelmed, ask yourself where are you looking? Are you staring intently into the eyes of your merciful and loving Savior? Just like a loving father teaches and guides his child, the Lord knows that if he never sends you into the storm, you will never have the opportunity to get out of the boat and walk on water. Take comfort in this, He is in the storm with you. He is there to strengthen you. He controls the winds and the waves, and will calm them in His time.
I continue to cling to His garments during this time and rely on the Promises found in His Word. The Lord is stretching my faith, humbling my pride, and breaking me. It is not easy and it is definitely not fun. However, I am learning that His grace is sufficient for me and His power is perfected in weakness (2 Cor 12:9) and that "He is near to the brokenhearted and comforts those who are crushed in spirit"(Psalms 34:18). Without this storm, I would never grow, never learn to "walk on water" in my Faith, and never have the opportunity to solely rely on my Savior. I have so much more to learn, but I can rest in this:
You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. (Isaiah 26:3)
Friday, January 22, 2010
When God Says No...
1 Samuel 7:1-17 (Click on reference to read text)
A heart following after God desires to do great things for God. We desire to see the Glory of the Lord magnified among the nations. David was such a man. As he found himself in a royal palace, he longed to build God a home of magnificence and splendor. A place the nations could come and worship the One True God. Yet, God said no... it was not a job He had for David.
Like David, there are times that God has said no to us in regard to a ministry, a seemingly Godly and wonderful opportunity, even a dream to serve the Lord in a particular way. When he says no, it is not easy, in fact it is crushing and devastating. We can choose to respond in several ways. We can mope, bemoan our circumstances, question God's voice and His timing, and grow angry. Why not us? Were we not good enough? Is there something intrinsically wrong with us that we are incapable of being used by the Father?
David could have responded any of those ways, but instead, he began to "prepare... for the house of God" (1 Chronicles 22:2). He began to gather all the supplies necessary for someone else to serve God in the way He desired to serve. He wholeheartedly pursued everything necessary for the task to be done... by someone else. He did not grow bitter, he grew stronger.
God chose someone else because "David was a man of bloodshed" (1 Chronicles 22:8). However, the shedding of blood was acted because of obedience to Christ... he was commanded by God to do so. Yet, these actions, prevented David from building His dream... a temple for the Most High God.
When God says no, it is so easy to believe the lies of Satan. Something must be wrong with us, we must have heard God wrong, we must.... you fill in the blank. However, those are lies. God has a purpose and plan for each of our lives, and we are not commanded to do everything there is for the Lord. Sometimes, it is someone elses's job. When God says no, we must stay the course, remain faithful where we are, walk in obedience to what God is commanding us to do here and now, help other Christian's along the way so that they can do mighty things for the kingdom. Whether by prayer, or practically helping other believers, we must choose to be obedient to our purpose.... and yes, YOU have a purpose!!
"I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:11-13
When you are broken hearted remember, "Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him." Psalm 126:5-6
A heart following after God desires to do great things for God. We desire to see the Glory of the Lord magnified among the nations. David was such a man. As he found himself in a royal palace, he longed to build God a home of magnificence and splendor. A place the nations could come and worship the One True God. Yet, God said no... it was not a job He had for David.
Like David, there are times that God has said no to us in regard to a ministry, a seemingly Godly and wonderful opportunity, even a dream to serve the Lord in a particular way. When he says no, it is not easy, in fact it is crushing and devastating. We can choose to respond in several ways. We can mope, bemoan our circumstances, question God's voice and His timing, and grow angry. Why not us? Were we not good enough? Is there something intrinsically wrong with us that we are incapable of being used by the Father?
David could have responded any of those ways, but instead, he began to "prepare... for the house of God" (1 Chronicles 22:2). He began to gather all the supplies necessary for someone else to serve God in the way He desired to serve. He wholeheartedly pursued everything necessary for the task to be done... by someone else. He did not grow bitter, he grew stronger.
God chose someone else because "David was a man of bloodshed" (1 Chronicles 22:8). However, the shedding of blood was acted because of obedience to Christ... he was commanded by God to do so. Yet, these actions, prevented David from building His dream... a temple for the Most High God.
When God says no, it is so easy to believe the lies of Satan. Something must be wrong with us, we must have heard God wrong, we must.... you fill in the blank. However, those are lies. God has a purpose and plan for each of our lives, and we are not commanded to do everything there is for the Lord. Sometimes, it is someone elses's job. When God says no, we must stay the course, remain faithful where we are, walk in obedience to what God is commanding us to do here and now, help other Christian's along the way so that they can do mighty things for the kingdom. Whether by prayer, or practically helping other believers, we must choose to be obedient to our purpose.... and yes, YOU have a purpose!!
"I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:11-13
When you are broken hearted remember, "Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him." Psalm 126:5-6
Monday, December 7, 2009
Favored of the Lord
Luke 1:26-38 (click on reference to read scripture text)
As the angel was speaking, Mary had to realize the implications of his message, especially in the light of the culture that she lived in. She was literally placing her life in God's hands. A birth out of wedlock was a capital offense that would most likely result in stoning... and that is just the physical consequences. What about her reputation, the ridicule she would get because of her fantastic story, her impending marriage... all in jeopardy. Why? Because she had found favor with God (vs. 30).
I once heard a pastor say, "to be favored by the Lord, doesn't mean favors from the Lord." Mary is just one example. What about Daniel being thrown to the lions, Shadrach and friends into the fiery furnace, Joseph experiencing slavery and jail time, Esther being kidnapped from her home and forced into marriage with a pagan king, and the life of Paul is the definition of suffering. These men and women walked with God, loved God, served the Lord, yet they suffered.
Daniel 1:8 states that Daniel resolved in his heart not to defile himself. We too must resolve now how we will respond to future trials and directives from the Lord. We must decide now, do we love Jesus or do we only love what Jesus can do for us? We must resolve now to believe that God is good, PERIOD, so that in those trying times, our gut reaction is to cling to the Father and not run away.
So... what about me? Am I willing to be favored by the Lord? Am I living a life of 100% surrender and obedience to even be considered by Him? If so... do I consider it "pure joy when (I) face trials of many kinds" (James 1:2-4). May we respond like Mary, "Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word" (vs.38).
As the angel was speaking, Mary had to realize the implications of his message, especially in the light of the culture that she lived in. She was literally placing her life in God's hands. A birth out of wedlock was a capital offense that would most likely result in stoning... and that is just the physical consequences. What about her reputation, the ridicule she would get because of her fantastic story, her impending marriage... all in jeopardy. Why? Because she had found favor with God (vs. 30).
I once heard a pastor say, "to be favored by the Lord, doesn't mean favors from the Lord." Mary is just one example. What about Daniel being thrown to the lions, Shadrach and friends into the fiery furnace, Joseph experiencing slavery and jail time, Esther being kidnapped from her home and forced into marriage with a pagan king, and the life of Paul is the definition of suffering. These men and women walked with God, loved God, served the Lord, yet they suffered.
Daniel 1:8 states that Daniel resolved in his heart not to defile himself. We too must resolve now how we will respond to future trials and directives from the Lord. We must decide now, do we love Jesus or do we only love what Jesus can do for us? We must resolve now to believe that God is good, PERIOD, so that in those trying times, our gut reaction is to cling to the Father and not run away.
So... what about me? Am I willing to be favored by the Lord? Am I living a life of 100% surrender and obedience to even be considered by Him? If so... do I consider it "pure joy when (I) face trials of many kinds" (James 1:2-4). May we respond like Mary, "Behold, the bondslave of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word" (vs.38).
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