True faithfulness comes from a deep abiding love for Jesus understanding that He first loved us. Since we are loved, we take God at His word. The love of God creates in us a devotion of fidelity. We have a bold confidence to believe He will do just as He promised because God is faithful!
Obedience is not so difficult or laborious, but an expression of our love to Him. Galatians 5:22 speaks of faithfulness as a fruit of the Spirit.
It’s important to understand faithfulness is not something we do but rather it a character of Christ. Faithfulness is cultivated by the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives. From out of this work, the fruit of faithfulness is evident by our obedience to God. In other words, simply doing what God commands does not mean we are faithful.
The question becomes then how do we sustain daily a faithful relationship to the Lord? In seeking the Lord, His answer was simple.
Acknowledge Me. The definition of acknowledge means to recognize and remember.
Whenever we are tempted or weak or when all is going well, we must learn to acknowledge Him. Remember His faithfulness. Call to mind the promises in His Word. Think about the past deliverances performed by His strength and think of the bright, hopeful future He has in store for those who love Him.
When we fail to acknowledge God and turn our focus to another, we in turn dismiss God. And this is the power of idolatry to turn our focus away from God to acknowledge another for relief, salvation, help, comfort etc. Jonah 2:8 warns those who cling to idols (vanities) forfeit their own grace.
We can acknowledge God in a number of ways:
We acknowledge God by retelling of God’s faithfulness to others who will in turn tell others. Psalms 145: 4 says, “One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts.” (see Deuteronomy 6:4 - 9). The success of the this and the next generation truly depends on how we acknowledge God in our daily lives.
We acknowledge God through our worship especially in times of opposition, failure or when prayers are seemingly unanswered.
We acknowledge God’s work through the lives of others in the body of Christ. God speaks through his people who some we rather dismiss because their personality or outward appearance or some flaw. God also speaks through the leadership He ordained to lead the congregation. This can be challenging for those who have been hurt by those in authority or when the pastor fails.
Proverbs 3:6 says when we acknowledge the Lord, He makes our paths straight. In other words, He not only gives us direction, but He carves out a path for us to walk on, even if we can't seem to find our way!
My dear brothers and sisters, let us acknowledge the Lord, as prophet Hosea encourages, "Let us acknowledge the LORD; let us press on to acknowledge him. As surely as the sun rises, he will appear; he will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth." (NIV).
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
A Sober Mind
Rarely have I heard a message in church of prayer being imaginative or using your imagination when praying. Rather, there is more emphasis on reining in our imagination by bringing every thought (good and evil) into captivity.
Prayer that fails to imagine leaves our conversation with God flat and dull. When we stay focused on facts, figures and logic we fail to see through the eyes of faith the impossible made possible Yes, we should use our minds by reasoning and understanding, but it is very limited in perceiving the mind of God.
Imagine your friend reading aloud the newspaper, reporting back to you some news story while never making eye contact and saying nothing on a personal, intimate level of how their day went or what is on their mind. Sadly, much of our prayers is reporting to God news that never asks, "God what do you see?"
Think of the amount of energy used in our informal conversations filled with emotions, gestures, facial expressions and vivid illustrations and examples – so why should prayer be any different?
When we pray our minds should be captured by seeing through faith what God is doing supernaturally - even if the present circumstance may not have changed or things seemingly got worse.
Paul writes in I Corinthians 2:9, "But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him." (KJV).
For us to truly be imagine the things God has in store for us, our families, and community of believers is have certain toxins released from our thinking.
Our minds can be intoxicated by the world, their way of thinking and behaving. Our minds can be affected by distress and difficult circumstances. I Peter 1:13 says we must gird up the loins of the mind. In the original, to gird up the loins of your mind means to tie a belt around your "fertile, productive" parts of the mind, namely your imagination.
Recall one of the pieces of the armor of God is the belt of truth. To tie a belt around your waist is representative of protecting the productive area (the loins) with God’s truth as we do our mind. In other words, our imagination is very creative. Anxiety can be intoxicating inflaming the mind, impairing judgment and fueling a wild imagination. Fear is another toxin that can feed on your imagination to distort what you see or don’t see. The end result is we are not fixing our minds on the things above but on earthly things.
Isaiah 26:3 gives us a promise of peace for a mind stayed on Christ. That promise would extend to our imaginations – we are not imagining the worse – but we are at peace. When we have a sober mind, we can think rightly and imagine accurately the things God has in His mind for us!
Prayer that fails to imagine leaves our conversation with God flat and dull. When we stay focused on facts, figures and logic we fail to see through the eyes of faith the impossible made possible Yes, we should use our minds by reasoning and understanding, but it is very limited in perceiving the mind of God.
Imagine your friend reading aloud the newspaper, reporting back to you some news story while never making eye contact and saying nothing on a personal, intimate level of how their day went or what is on their mind. Sadly, much of our prayers is reporting to God news that never asks, "God what do you see?"
Think of the amount of energy used in our informal conversations filled with emotions, gestures, facial expressions and vivid illustrations and examples – so why should prayer be any different?
When we pray our minds should be captured by seeing through faith what God is doing supernaturally - even if the present circumstance may not have changed or things seemingly got worse.
Paul writes in I Corinthians 2:9, "But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him." (KJV).
For us to truly be imagine the things God has in store for us, our families, and community of believers is have certain toxins released from our thinking.
Our minds can be intoxicated by the world, their way of thinking and behaving. Our minds can be affected by distress and difficult circumstances. I Peter 1:13 says we must gird up the loins of the mind. In the original, to gird up the loins of your mind means to tie a belt around your "fertile, productive" parts of the mind, namely your imagination.
Recall one of the pieces of the armor of God is the belt of truth. To tie a belt around your waist is representative of protecting the productive area (the loins) with God’s truth as we do our mind. In other words, our imagination is very creative. Anxiety can be intoxicating inflaming the mind, impairing judgment and fueling a wild imagination. Fear is another toxin that can feed on your imagination to distort what you see or don’t see. The end result is we are not fixing our minds on the things above but on earthly things.
Isaiah 26:3 gives us a promise of peace for a mind stayed on Christ. That promise would extend to our imaginations – we are not imagining the worse – but we are at peace. When we have a sober mind, we can think rightly and imagine accurately the things God has in His mind for us!
Monday, January 28, 2013
Prayers of Remembrance
Just how effective is our prayers?
Only recently I asked the Lord are my prayers effective or futile? Do my prayers move the heart of God?
Beloved, have you ever stopped in middle of prayer and thought, who am I praying to? It’s not that we forget that we are addressing God but there are times when we catch ourselves saying catch phrases or cliches when speaking to God.
Matthew 26:7-13 records a woman, presumably Mary, pouring a costly fragrance over the Lord's head. Jesus says in verse 12, “For in pouring this fragrant oil on My body, she did it for My burial”.
But isn't that much like prayer? We come to God in our broken state and pour out our precious petitions. I don’t believe this woman came with the intent to anoint Jesus for His burial. To Jesus, her offering was to be for a different purpose.
Verse 13 is the key when Jesus says to everyone listening, “what this woman has done will also be told as a memorial to her”. By remembering Him, Jesus said this woman will be remembered forever whenever the gospel is preached.
So what did Mary see that the disciples or religious couldn't see in Jesus?
I believe as she poured the oil over His head, she was anointing her King. Just as Samuel poured oil over David to anoint him as king (a type of Christ). This woman represents the church, His bride who He will never forget.
When she first entered the room, she was a broken woman. But when she left, her head was lifted, her eyes ablaze for she had seen her King and she would never forget the God who remembers her not for her sin and failure, but as His bride.
When we remember a God who has never forgotten us or the prayers we utter, we pray the most effective prayers.
Here are three keys:
1. You are not forgotten. Cornelius was remembered for his prayers and alms (Acts 10:4). Daniel was heard in Babylonian captivity (10:11-12). God remembered Israel while in Egypt (Exodus 2:23-24). And God remembered Noah and his family while in the Ark (Genesis 8:1). And He remembers you!
2. God wants us to call Him into remembrance of the promises He has spoken to us (Psalms 119:49-50)
3. Rehearse the good things God has done and recall His promises. This produces a heart of worship. As a result, our memories become sweeter and tender when we act upon His word (James 1:22-23).
Only recently I asked the Lord are my prayers effective or futile? Do my prayers move the heart of God?
Beloved, have you ever stopped in middle of prayer and thought, who am I praying to? It’s not that we forget that we are addressing God but there are times when we catch ourselves saying catch phrases or cliches when speaking to God.
Matthew 26:7-13 records a woman, presumably Mary, pouring a costly fragrance over the Lord's head. Jesus says in verse 12, “For in pouring this fragrant oil on My body, she did it for My burial”.
But isn't that much like prayer? We come to God in our broken state and pour out our precious petitions. I don’t believe this woman came with the intent to anoint Jesus for His burial. To Jesus, her offering was to be for a different purpose.
Verse 13 is the key when Jesus says to everyone listening, “what this woman has done will also be told as a memorial to her”. By remembering Him, Jesus said this woman will be remembered forever whenever the gospel is preached.
So what did Mary see that the disciples or religious couldn't see in Jesus?
I believe as she poured the oil over His head, she was anointing her King. Just as Samuel poured oil over David to anoint him as king (a type of Christ). This woman represents the church, His bride who He will never forget.
When she first entered the room, she was a broken woman. But when she left, her head was lifted, her eyes ablaze for she had seen her King and she would never forget the God who remembers her not for her sin and failure, but as His bride.
When we remember a God who has never forgotten us or the prayers we utter, we pray the most effective prayers.
Here are three keys:
1. You are not forgotten. Cornelius was remembered for his prayers and alms (Acts 10:4). Daniel was heard in Babylonian captivity (10:11-12). God remembered Israel while in Egypt (Exodus 2:23-24). And God remembered Noah and his family while in the Ark (Genesis 8:1). And He remembers you!
2. God wants us to call Him into remembrance of the promises He has spoken to us (Psalms 119:49-50)
3. Rehearse the good things God has done and recall His promises. This produces a heart of worship. As a result, our memories become sweeter and tender when we act upon His word (James 1:22-23).
What Do You Want Me To Do?
I'm currently a team leader for a church prayer team so I have opportunity to hear many requests for prayer.
I've noticed a person in need will often circle around the true issue or problem, staying close to the surface where it's safe. This actually works to the team's advantage as it requires us to lean on the Lord for insightful words of healing and comfort. Often the person is surprised that through prayer, the Lord touches on something very deep, personal and unknown by many.
I'm reminded of Mark 10:51 when Jesus asked a blind man, "What do you want me to do for you?" Jesus asked him. The blind man said, "Rabbi, I want to see." (NIV).
From the first reading, it might seem obvious that being blind he would request to have his eyesight restored.
But could the Lord be addressing something deeper, something that is not so obvious, a need so deep in the heart of this man which he may not be fully aware? What if the man replied, I want spiritual sight. I want to see Jesus. God may have certainly done both for the man, healing both the physical and spiritual sight.
Sadly, we really don't know what to ask of the Lord. Yes, He can meet our physical needs, but these needs are constant. Answer one need and another need springs up! Most don't expect God to listen and have prayers answered. They might feel their request is too foolish or too difficult or even too painful to ask.
After so many years had passed, remember God visited Sarah with the news that in the same year, she would bear a child. I believe out of pain, she laughed, but God still answered her deepest long.
Be encouraged to pray heart rendering prayers. Prayers that move the heart of God because we are foolish enough to believe He will answer us. Remember, those that ask will receive an answer from the Lord. Nothing is more satisfying than a prayer answered that meets a physical desire or need, but one that speaks to a deepest longing of the heart.
I've noticed a person in need will often circle around the true issue or problem, staying close to the surface where it's safe. This actually works to the team's advantage as it requires us to lean on the Lord for insightful words of healing and comfort. Often the person is surprised that through prayer, the Lord touches on something very deep, personal and unknown by many.
I'm reminded of Mark 10:51 when Jesus asked a blind man, "What do you want me to do for you?" Jesus asked him. The blind man said, "Rabbi, I want to see." (NIV).
From the first reading, it might seem obvious that being blind he would request to have his eyesight restored.
But could the Lord be addressing something deeper, something that is not so obvious, a need so deep in the heart of this man which he may not be fully aware? What if the man replied, I want spiritual sight. I want to see Jesus. God may have certainly done both for the man, healing both the physical and spiritual sight.
Sadly, we really don't know what to ask of the Lord. Yes, He can meet our physical needs, but these needs are constant. Answer one need and another need springs up! Most don't expect God to listen and have prayers answered. They might feel their request is too foolish or too difficult or even too painful to ask.
After so many years had passed, remember God visited Sarah with the news that in the same year, she would bear a child. I believe out of pain, she laughed, but God still answered her deepest long.
Be encouraged to pray heart rendering prayers. Prayers that move the heart of God because we are foolish enough to believe He will answer us. Remember, those that ask will receive an answer from the Lord. Nothing is more satisfying than a prayer answered that meets a physical desire or need, but one that speaks to a deepest longing of the heart.
Sunday, January 27, 2013
Let There Be Light!
A few hours ago, my wife and I were happily sitting in the living room when the entire house was plunged into darkness.
There was no warning or sound, suddenly the room dimmed and everything went black. The furnace abruptly stopped and the washer and dryer rumbling like a train in the other room came to a complete halt.
Confused and stumbling in the darkness we looked out our kitchen window in hopes it was not just our house. But one glance outside told us our neighbor's house was warmly lit. That is when I realized, the temperature in the room was falling. A sense of urgency suddenly hit me. If this is not fixed soon, we will have a long, freezing night (and I had woke up that morning with a terrible cold).
In the darkness, my wife said, "Let's worship the Lord". And in that moment, another light entered the room displacing my rising panic. And so we thanked Him for the answer we did not have at the moment and for the answer to prayer to have the lights restored. Later, we learned the main breaker needed to be replaced.
Even as I write this, the power failed. God said in Genesis 1:3 let there be light. In that command, day time was created.
In John 8:12, it says "When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." (NIV).
When Christ comes into our heart, light displaces darkness. We are no longer stumbling through life, blindly feeling our way through each day. With His light, we are not cold, but warm.
With the light of Christ, we have an endless source of power. Power that swallows up the darkness around us. Power to have a transformed life. In Christ, there is no power failure!
There was no warning or sound, suddenly the room dimmed and everything went black. The furnace abruptly stopped and the washer and dryer rumbling like a train in the other room came to a complete halt.
Confused and stumbling in the darkness we looked out our kitchen window in hopes it was not just our house. But one glance outside told us our neighbor's house was warmly lit. That is when I realized, the temperature in the room was falling. A sense of urgency suddenly hit me. If this is not fixed soon, we will have a long, freezing night (and I had woke up that morning with a terrible cold).
In the darkness, my wife said, "Let's worship the Lord". And in that moment, another light entered the room displacing my rising panic. And so we thanked Him for the answer we did not have at the moment and for the answer to prayer to have the lights restored. Later, we learned the main breaker needed to be replaced.
Even as I write this, the power failed. God said in Genesis 1:3 let there be light. In that command, day time was created.
In John 8:12, it says "When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." (NIV).
When Christ comes into our heart, light displaces darkness. We are no longer stumbling through life, blindly feeling our way through each day. With His light, we are not cold, but warm.
With the light of Christ, we have an endless source of power. Power that swallows up the darkness around us. Power to have a transformed life. In Christ, there is no power failure!
Friday, January 25, 2013
God's Hymn
One hymn that I enjoy singing is Trust and Obey by John Sammis (1846-1919).
“When we walk with the Lord in the light of his word,
what a glory he sheds on our way!
When we do his good will, he abides with us still,
and with all who will trust and obey.
Trust and obey, for there’s no other way
to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.”
The story behind the hymn is during Dwight L. Moody’s famous revival meetings a young man stood up in a testimony meeting to say, “I’m not quite sure – but I’m going to trust, and I am going to obey.” That short sentence was recorded by the music composer who sent the line to John Sammis who later wrote the hymn, Trust and Obey.
As a child, happiness in Jesus was a supreme feeling in a season where it seemed bright, exciting to be alive and with a wide path leading to a hopeful future.
Entering into adolescence, I became painfully aware that not everything was right or bright in the world. There was a cry in my heart to really trust God as life became increasingly more difficult. “I’m not quite sure – but I’m going to trust, and I am going to obey.”
Then the Lord answered my cry many years later in a very difficult and challenging crisis (as result of my foolishness not to obey Him). In the fall of 2009 He spoke to me strongly to worship Him and not consider the situation or give it more thought than it ought. I knelt before the Lord with hands lifted up thanking Him that I was finally free to trust Him, though it may very well cost my life.
I believe no matter what sad sweet song we wrote over our lives because of sin and failure. Or a song our captors demand that we sing about a heavenly place we can only dream of being in its walls safe from harm (Psalms 137:7).
God says to you and me, the hymn I sing over your life is new song. A song that many will see (we become living lyrics of God’s manifested presence). It’s a hymn that will cause many to fear and put their trust in God (Psalms 40:3).
For every verse that was written against you, your home and family and verses of defeat and failure wielded against your mind, God has another verse of victory, of power and blessing. Together this forms a holy stanza, a musical verse that echoes the refrain. “I’m not quite sure – but I’m going to trust, and I am going to obey.”
“When we walk with the Lord in the light of his word,
what a glory he sheds on our way!
When we do his good will, he abides with us still,
and with all who will trust and obey.
Trust and obey, for there’s no other way
to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.”
The story behind the hymn is during Dwight L. Moody’s famous revival meetings a young man stood up in a testimony meeting to say, “I’m not quite sure – but I’m going to trust, and I am going to obey.” That short sentence was recorded by the music composer who sent the line to John Sammis who later wrote the hymn, Trust and Obey.
As a child, happiness in Jesus was a supreme feeling in a season where it seemed bright, exciting to be alive and with a wide path leading to a hopeful future.
Entering into adolescence, I became painfully aware that not everything was right or bright in the world. There was a cry in my heart to really trust God as life became increasingly more difficult. “I’m not quite sure – but I’m going to trust, and I am going to obey.”
Then the Lord answered my cry many years later in a very difficult and challenging crisis (as result of my foolishness not to obey Him). In the fall of 2009 He spoke to me strongly to worship Him and not consider the situation or give it more thought than it ought. I knelt before the Lord with hands lifted up thanking Him that I was finally free to trust Him, though it may very well cost my life.
I believe no matter what sad sweet song we wrote over our lives because of sin and failure. Or a song our captors demand that we sing about a heavenly place we can only dream of being in its walls safe from harm (Psalms 137:7).
God says to you and me, the hymn I sing over your life is new song. A song that many will see (we become living lyrics of God’s manifested presence). It’s a hymn that will cause many to fear and put their trust in God (Psalms 40:3).
For every verse that was written against you, your home and family and verses of defeat and failure wielded against your mind, God has another verse of victory, of power and blessing. Together this forms a holy stanza, a musical verse that echoes the refrain. “I’m not quite sure – but I’m going to trust, and I am going to obey.”
Benefits
Psalms 103 is a wonderful passage of Scripture to start your day by praying through each verse.
Praying through Scripture keeps your mind sharp, fresh and focused. As you read aloud each verse of this Psalm or any other portion of God's word, it will be build faith. Faith comes by hearing and hearing the word of God (Romans 10:17).
And when you read the word of God aloud, you rehearse in God's hearing all that He has promised you. He's not forgetful nor does He lie, but it helps us to remember His faithfulness and keep deception and the lies of the Devil far from our ears. These are some of benefits when you read Scripture as you pray.
Generally, you want to weave praise and adoration through your times of prayer. Gratitude keeps the direction of prayer going upward and outward rather than sinking inward and downward, until you are consumed by your own cares and worries. Your focus is no longer on Christ, but a crisis.
Let me give you an example from Psalms 103: 1:1-2.
A Psalm of David. Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.
Father, I come to bless your holy name. There is none beside you, none like you! This morning I come to bless you. My soul will make it's boast in you. God, give me the strength, the joy and the power to bring you an offering of praise!
Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:
Thank you Lord for healing my body, giving me life and strength. I'm here this morning, Jesus, because you got me out of bed. Thank you for the work you are doing in my family. Even if I don't see an immediate change, I will bless you because I know you are still at work! Help me throughout this day not to forget your benefits. Help me to extend your benefits of grace, kindness and mercy to others in need.
As you pray through the Scriptures, you will hear God's voice echoing back a truth as you read and meditate. The most wonderful benefit of praying through the Scriptures is your ear will become trained in hearing the voice of God. And when you need to hear His voice the most, the Holy Spirit will bring to your mind the Scriptures that you prayed in faith.
Praying through Scripture keeps your mind sharp, fresh and focused. As you read aloud each verse of this Psalm or any other portion of God's word, it will be build faith. Faith comes by hearing and hearing the word of God (Romans 10:17).
And when you read the word of God aloud, you rehearse in God's hearing all that He has promised you. He's not forgetful nor does He lie, but it helps us to remember His faithfulness and keep deception and the lies of the Devil far from our ears. These are some of benefits when you read Scripture as you pray.
Generally, you want to weave praise and adoration through your times of prayer. Gratitude keeps the direction of prayer going upward and outward rather than sinking inward and downward, until you are consumed by your own cares and worries. Your focus is no longer on Christ, but a crisis.
Let me give you an example from Psalms 103: 1:1-2.
A Psalm of David. Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.
Father, I come to bless your holy name. There is none beside you, none like you! This morning I come to bless you. My soul will make it's boast in you. God, give me the strength, the joy and the power to bring you an offering of praise!
Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:
Thank you Lord for healing my body, giving me life and strength. I'm here this morning, Jesus, because you got me out of bed. Thank you for the work you are doing in my family. Even if I don't see an immediate change, I will bless you because I know you are still at work! Help me throughout this day not to forget your benefits. Help me to extend your benefits of grace, kindness and mercy to others in need.
As you pray through the Scriptures, you will hear God's voice echoing back a truth as you read and meditate. The most wonderful benefit of praying through the Scriptures is your ear will become trained in hearing the voice of God. And when you need to hear His voice the most, the Holy Spirit will bring to your mind the Scriptures that you prayed in faith.
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
A Wordless Prayer
There was a woman subject to bleeding for many years who pressed through the crowd to touch Jesus. She said to herself, "If I only touch his cloak, I will be healed." (Matthew 9:21).
These words were not spoken, but her actions revealed the earnest desire to be healed. Before she touched his garments, God had heard her painful thought. And He must of heard something else deeper still. A heart still holding to a thread of hope that perhaps this Great Physician will do what other doctors had failed to do by bringing relief to her suffering.
Are you in need of healing? Is your heart broken? Is your mind in need of peace? God already knows and hears what the heart is saying before any words are spoken.
While having lunch in a coffee shop, I read of how Moses talked to the Lord, pleading for Him not to destroy Israel after they sinned by worshipping a golden calf. The words caught my attention when it says God listened to Moses.
At that moment, the Lord spoke to me. Do you know I listen to you? My eyes brimmed with tears. In that moment I realized so much of my prayers - long and poetic or just plain pathetic - were driven by the need to know, to really know God hears the longings of my heart.
Jesus speaking of the Gentiles when they prayed babbled and thought by their many words they can be heard (Matthew 6:7, see Ecclesiates 5:2). There is a time when words fail and your native tongue can't describe what really is going on in the heart.
Sometimes prayer is simply tears falling from your face. It can be your hand reaching up to God with only a few words, "God, please help me." Or like Hannah who moved her lips but there was no sound, only her heart was praying (ISamuel 1:13).
Whatever the sound we make or gesture toward God, we have this precious promise. The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. (Psalms 34:17 NIV).
These words were not spoken, but her actions revealed the earnest desire to be healed. Before she touched his garments, God had heard her painful thought. And He must of heard something else deeper still. A heart still holding to a thread of hope that perhaps this Great Physician will do what other doctors had failed to do by bringing relief to her suffering.
Are you in need of healing? Is your heart broken? Is your mind in need of peace? God already knows and hears what the heart is saying before any words are spoken.
While having lunch in a coffee shop, I read of how Moses talked to the Lord, pleading for Him not to destroy Israel after they sinned by worshipping a golden calf. The words caught my attention when it says God listened to Moses.
At that moment, the Lord spoke to me. Do you know I listen to you? My eyes brimmed with tears. In that moment I realized so much of my prayers - long and poetic or just plain pathetic - were driven by the need to know, to really know God hears the longings of my heart.
Jesus speaking of the Gentiles when they prayed babbled and thought by their many words they can be heard (Matthew 6:7, see Ecclesiates 5:2). There is a time when words fail and your native tongue can't describe what really is going on in the heart.
Sometimes prayer is simply tears falling from your face. It can be your hand reaching up to God with only a few words, "God, please help me." Or like Hannah who moved her lips but there was no sound, only her heart was praying (ISamuel 1:13).
Whatever the sound we make or gesture toward God, we have this precious promise. The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. (Psalms 34:17 NIV).
Lift Your Eyes to Heaven
What makes prayer so difficult? Is it because we can't see Christ with our natural eyes but find ourselves addressing an empty room? Could it be the distractions and demands of the day make it difficult to focus?
Or is there something about prayer that is so personal that some feel uncomfortable because the heart speaks words in a secret place more honest than in public spaces? Words that bubble up from deep within the soul that cause tears to fall or a fist to clench in anger.
Or is prayer difficult because of the unseen war of demonic powers that will do anything to shut our mouths from calling out to Jesus?
When Jesus was in the garden, he left his disciples to go and pray only to find them asleep. It says, "When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy." (Matthew 26:43). In other words, their eyes were weighted down by sorrow.
Prayer is difficult because we must see through the eyes of faith into an unseen realm where God dwells. Only the Holy Spirit can enlighten our spiritual eyes.
Otherwise, our eyes will soon grow heavy from unbelief and a milky-like cataract forms over the lens of our eyes. No longer can we see beyond the natural realm. We stop praying because we fail to believe God is still at work!
Yes, Christ was going to die but He would be resurrected in three days - something the disciples hadn't fully understood in the present so they could not enter into the fullness of joy despite the suffering and pain.
They witnessed the Lord beaten and mocked. He would be forced to carry His cross until another had to carry it. He would be nailed to a crude, wooden cross, the Son of God, once a carpenter in his youth. He was exposed, bleeding and dying being suspended between heaven and earth.
When the Lord prayed in the garden it says, "These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven (emphasis mine), and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee:" (John 17:1 KJV).
It seems Jesus never lowered his eyes while on the cross except to direct John to take care of His mother, Mary and when He bowed His head and died.
The next time we take time to pray, let's open our eyes and lift up our heads toward heaven (Psalms 121:1). Let's pray God, open our hearts and give us understanding. Take away the veil of unbelief that causes these eyes to become heavy with sleep!
Seeing is not always believing but the prayer of faith is truly believing what is unseen is real!
So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. (2 Corinthians 4:18, NIV).
Or is there something about prayer that is so personal that some feel uncomfortable because the heart speaks words in a secret place more honest than in public spaces? Words that bubble up from deep within the soul that cause tears to fall or a fist to clench in anger.
Or is prayer difficult because of the unseen war of demonic powers that will do anything to shut our mouths from calling out to Jesus?
When Jesus was in the garden, he left his disciples to go and pray only to find them asleep. It says, "When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy." (Matthew 26:43). In other words, their eyes were weighted down by sorrow.
Prayer is difficult because we must see through the eyes of faith into an unseen realm where God dwells. Only the Holy Spirit can enlighten our spiritual eyes.
Otherwise, our eyes will soon grow heavy from unbelief and a milky-like cataract forms over the lens of our eyes. No longer can we see beyond the natural realm. We stop praying because we fail to believe God is still at work!
Yes, Christ was going to die but He would be resurrected in three days - something the disciples hadn't fully understood in the present so they could not enter into the fullness of joy despite the suffering and pain.
They witnessed the Lord beaten and mocked. He would be forced to carry His cross until another had to carry it. He would be nailed to a crude, wooden cross, the Son of God, once a carpenter in his youth. He was exposed, bleeding and dying being suspended between heaven and earth.
When the Lord prayed in the garden it says, "These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven (emphasis mine), and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee:" (John 17:1 KJV).
It seems Jesus never lowered his eyes while on the cross except to direct John to take care of His mother, Mary and when He bowed His head and died.
The next time we take time to pray, let's open our eyes and lift up our heads toward heaven (Psalms 121:1). Let's pray God, open our hearts and give us understanding. Take away the veil of unbelief that causes these eyes to become heavy with sleep!
Seeing is not always believing but the prayer of faith is truly believing what is unseen is real!
So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. (2 Corinthians 4:18, NIV).
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
I Shall Not Want
I shall not want what the world holds out as being sweet and precious.
For their food leaves me wanting, hungry and terribly frustrated for more but only widening the void in my soul and inching me over a hellish canyon of death. There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death (Proverbs 14:12 NIV).
I shall not want what I want because I'll pursue short cuts or back doors or anything to avoid pain and suffering. I'd compromise and grab at nearly anything to satisfy my ambitions and fleshly desires. Jesus learned obedience through what He suffered, all because He desired only to obey the will of God, His Father. Even though Jesus was God's Son, he learned obedience from the things he suffered (Hebrews 5:8 NLT).
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want (Psalms 23:1).
I will learn to want only my Shepherd.
When I feel the weight of my needs press hard against my soul or when the nights seem so long and the break of day so far away, my Shepherd will lead me to His green pastures (not my own). He will give me peace beside quieted waters. Yes, even His rod will be to me my comfort and delight.
God will never leave me alone with my wants. He sends goodness and mercy to follow me all the days of my life (Psalms 23:6). When my wants want to remind me of life that I left behind, of days spent in wanton lust and recklessness, His goodness and mercy will satisfy me, overtaking my desires for the world and of my own flesh.
And so I'm never in want...except for more of Him.
For their food leaves me wanting, hungry and terribly frustrated for more but only widening the void in my soul and inching me over a hellish canyon of death. There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death (Proverbs 14:12 NIV).
I shall not want what I want because I'll pursue short cuts or back doors or anything to avoid pain and suffering. I'd compromise and grab at nearly anything to satisfy my ambitions and fleshly desires. Jesus learned obedience through what He suffered, all because He desired only to obey the will of God, His Father. Even though Jesus was God's Son, he learned obedience from the things he suffered (Hebrews 5:8 NLT).
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want (Psalms 23:1).
I will learn to want only my Shepherd.
When I feel the weight of my needs press hard against my soul or when the nights seem so long and the break of day so far away, my Shepherd will lead me to His green pastures (not my own). He will give me peace beside quieted waters. Yes, even His rod will be to me my comfort and delight.
God will never leave me alone with my wants. He sends goodness and mercy to follow me all the days of my life (Psalms 23:6). When my wants want to remind me of life that I left behind, of days spent in wanton lust and recklessness, His goodness and mercy will satisfy me, overtaking my desires for the world and of my own flesh.
And so I'm never in want...except for more of Him.
Sunday, January 20, 2013
The Lord's Day
Sunday is an interesting day as it falls at the end of the week but serves to transition into a new week. For the most part, city streets are empty and some stores are closed for business. The world around seems to pause even though there are events and activities still going on all around and across the world.
In Genesis 2:2 it says, "And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made." (KJV). For the Jews, this marked the Shabbat, a time of rest and reflection of God's creation starting on Friday evening to the first three stars appearing on Saturday evening.
Sunday has been described as the Lord's Day. The first mention of the Lord's Day is in Revelation 1:10. The beloved John was on the island of Patmos as a prisoner when on the Lord's Day he received a revelation of things which are and things to come (Revelation 1:19). Sunday is day of transition from the past and into the future.
As we enter the new week, on the Lord's Day, we don't know what we are to encounter in the week to come. Some of us are glad to have survived last week and rather not repeat it again.
In our world today, it might be unavoidable to work on a Sunday but we can learn a principal from Isaiah 58:13-14.
We must learn to enjoy what it means to rest in the Lord. This is something that doesn't come easy for those who are caught in a frenzy of activity. Even though much of the activity can actually wait for another day. So I wonder if doing less is better than doing more? If anything, on the Lord's Day we shore up our energy and strength for the days ahead.
The promise in Isaiah 30:15 is for those who chose to rest.
For thus saith the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel; In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength: and ye would not. (KJV).
We will have a renewed sense of confidence and strength when we let go of the busyness for one day and rest.
In Genesis 2:2 it says, "And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made." (KJV). For the Jews, this marked the Shabbat, a time of rest and reflection of God's creation starting on Friday evening to the first three stars appearing on Saturday evening.
Sunday has been described as the Lord's Day. The first mention of the Lord's Day is in Revelation 1:10. The beloved John was on the island of Patmos as a prisoner when on the Lord's Day he received a revelation of things which are and things to come (Revelation 1:19). Sunday is day of transition from the past and into the future.
As we enter the new week, on the Lord's Day, we don't know what we are to encounter in the week to come. Some of us are glad to have survived last week and rather not repeat it again.
In our world today, it might be unavoidable to work on a Sunday but we can learn a principal from Isaiah 58:13-14.
We must learn to enjoy what it means to rest in the Lord. This is something that doesn't come easy for those who are caught in a frenzy of activity. Even though much of the activity can actually wait for another day. So I wonder if doing less is better than doing more? If anything, on the Lord's Day we shore up our energy and strength for the days ahead.
The promise in Isaiah 30:15 is for those who chose to rest.
For thus saith the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel; In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength: and ye would not. (KJV).
We will have a renewed sense of confidence and strength when we let go of the busyness for one day and rest.
Take My Hand
As a child, I remember my father telling me to look both ways before crossing the street. To watch the walk sign to indicate it was safe to step down from the curb and make our way to the other side of the street. He then would take my hand and hold it tightly. I waited for a second or two for him to take the lead. Then I would step down from the curb and cross the line of drivers who watched as we walked passed them. By the time we finished crossing the road, the river of cars suddenly broke and streamed over the crosswalk.
Through the years, God has held my hand.
In times when I rebelled and went my own way and headed in the opposite direction, He took my hand. The same hands that were nailed to a tree, out stretched arms leaving His heart unprotected, while my sin and that of world crushed Him.
Later in life, I would face overwhelming challenges, stilled He stretched out His hands to take mine and pull me to His side. Much like Peter who bravely got out of the boat and walked toward Jesus on stormy seas, until he looked down. God grabbed his hand so he would not go under the cold, dark waters.
Once I stood at a train station following a doctor's appointment. Tears stung my eyes when recalling the news of the medical report. Again, I remember Dad taking my hand to lead me across the busy intersection. I glanced up at the sky and prayed, "Please Father, take my hand, I'm afraid and I feel so alone right now."
Now, my wife and I face another challenge that could mean a new job and relocation. It will take us across the country to a large, busy and sleepless city. But this is the promise the Lord gives me and to us.
For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you. (Isaiah 41:13 NIV).
If you are in pain, find yourself weeping through the night, feel so alone and cold, or can't face another day then raise your hands. Yes, raise them up and ask God to take your hand. When you do, the power of God will rest on you. You will find strength to stand, to smile, to laugh again. And yes, you will be able to cross any life's busy and confusing intersections because you have a Father who will help and lead you to the other side!
Through the years, God has held my hand.
In times when I rebelled and went my own way and headed in the opposite direction, He took my hand. The same hands that were nailed to a tree, out stretched arms leaving His heart unprotected, while my sin and that of world crushed Him.
Later in life, I would face overwhelming challenges, stilled He stretched out His hands to take mine and pull me to His side. Much like Peter who bravely got out of the boat and walked toward Jesus on stormy seas, until he looked down. God grabbed his hand so he would not go under the cold, dark waters.
Once I stood at a train station following a doctor's appointment. Tears stung my eyes when recalling the news of the medical report. Again, I remember Dad taking my hand to lead me across the busy intersection. I glanced up at the sky and prayed, "Please Father, take my hand, I'm afraid and I feel so alone right now."
Now, my wife and I face another challenge that could mean a new job and relocation. It will take us across the country to a large, busy and sleepless city. But this is the promise the Lord gives me and to us.
For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you. (Isaiah 41:13 NIV).
If you are in pain, find yourself weeping through the night, feel so alone and cold, or can't face another day then raise your hands. Yes, raise them up and ask God to take your hand. When you do, the power of God will rest on you. You will find strength to stand, to smile, to laugh again. And yes, you will be able to cross any life's busy and confusing intersections because you have a Father who will help and lead you to the other side!
Saturday, January 19, 2013
A Righteous Life
We read in I John 3:7 "Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous." (KJV). The key word is practice (a word used in other Bible translations). In the Greek it means "to do".
In other words, righteous acts should flow out of righteous heart not just fulfilling moral obligations. Even some of the most corrupt individuals on the planet have been known to do good and charitable deeds, but it doesn't mean they are righteous.
We can spend hours of listening to sermons, reading solid Christian books, attending conferences and events. These things may increase our understanding but does not make us any more righteous.
Christ is our example to follow. He not only did righteous acts, but He is righteous. Merriam-Webster online dictionary defines righteous as acting in accord with divine or moral law: free from guilt or sin.
How do we be righteous without falling into the trap of trying to live a moral life by doing good in our strength?
I Corinthians 6:11 tells us we have been washed, sanctified and justified. The word justified means to be properly, approved, especially in a legal, authoritative sense; to show what is right, i.e. conformed to a proper standard (Bible Suite by Biblos).
Through the blood of Jesus we were declared righteous! We are given the power to turn away from those former unrighteous thoughts and practices because we are no longer following after the pattern of this world.
Let's ask God for the grace to act more like Him since we are already justified in His sight. Perhaps this is where we lead an authentic righteous life in word and in practice when we fully understand that no matter what temptation or struggle or failure we experience, we are still the righteous of God in Christ (Romans 3:22).
In other words, righteous acts should flow out of righteous heart not just fulfilling moral obligations. Even some of the most corrupt individuals on the planet have been known to do good and charitable deeds, but it doesn't mean they are righteous.
We can spend hours of listening to sermons, reading solid Christian books, attending conferences and events. These things may increase our understanding but does not make us any more righteous.
Christ is our example to follow. He not only did righteous acts, but He is righteous. Merriam-Webster online dictionary defines righteous as acting in accord with divine or moral law: free from guilt or sin.
How do we be righteous without falling into the trap of trying to live a moral life by doing good in our strength?
I Corinthians 6:11 tells us we have been washed, sanctified and justified. The word justified means to be properly, approved, especially in a legal, authoritative sense; to show what is right, i.e. conformed to a proper standard (Bible Suite by Biblos).
Through the blood of Jesus we were declared righteous! We are given the power to turn away from those former unrighteous thoughts and practices because we are no longer following after the pattern of this world.
Let's ask God for the grace to act more like Him since we are already justified in His sight. Perhaps this is where we lead an authentic righteous life in word and in practice when we fully understand that no matter what temptation or struggle or failure we experience, we are still the righteous of God in Christ (Romans 3:22).
Friday, January 18, 2013
Jesus, You are Beautiful
Psalms 27:4 reads, "One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in his temple." (KJV).
My recent prayer is Lord I want to desire You above all else in this life. For You must alone be the chief affection of my heart. I yearn to know what it is to please You without demands and taxing Your presence with my wants and laundry list of needs. To simply as the psalmist writes, to behold the beauty of the Lord. Simply gaze upon Your lovely and holy face!
John writes, "Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when he appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is" (I John 3:2).
And Paul echoes the same message, "Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known." (I Corinthians 13:12).
Every so often I will look up at the sky, wondering about heaven and the God who is present with me, yet far above He sits upon a throne. Though my eyes strain to see past the clouds, I'm certain He is there, in a place which is really my home.
So I learn to walk through this life with a sense of incompleteness until that day we will meet. And with one look at His face, it will be worth it all. All the questions will fade away and suddenly with one glance of His eyes, this life with all it's limited understanding will make sense.
Throughout a life time, faith is the only way to see Him - then on that day, faith is no longer required. Christ will be seen, face to face with all of His glory!
Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. I Thessalonians 4:17.
My recent prayer is Lord I want to desire You above all else in this life. For You must alone be the chief affection of my heart. I yearn to know what it is to please You without demands and taxing Your presence with my wants and laundry list of needs. To simply as the psalmist writes, to behold the beauty of the Lord. Simply gaze upon Your lovely and holy face!
John writes, "Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when he appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is" (I John 3:2).
And Paul echoes the same message, "Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known." (I Corinthians 13:12).
Every so often I will look up at the sky, wondering about heaven and the God who is present with me, yet far above He sits upon a throne. Though my eyes strain to see past the clouds, I'm certain He is there, in a place which is really my home.
So I learn to walk through this life with a sense of incompleteness until that day we will meet. And with one look at His face, it will be worth it all. All the questions will fade away and suddenly with one glance of His eyes, this life with all it's limited understanding will make sense.
Throughout a life time, faith is the only way to see Him - then on that day, faith is no longer required. Christ will be seen, face to face with all of His glory!
Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. I Thessalonians 4:17.
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Resistance
When faced with troubles and difficulties, our best defense against stress is complete submission to the Lord.
James 4:7 instructs us first submit to God and then resist the devil and he shall flee. In the orginal resist means take a complete stand against, i.e. a "180 degree, contrary position" (Bible Suite by Biblos).
Likewise Ephesians 6:13 says, "Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand." (KJV).
Stress tries to call us back to old places, sinful habits or ungodly relationships for temporary relief. Unfortunately, this leads to frustration and more stress because it's never enough. Sadly, finding our relief outside of God creates a separation in our relationship with Him.
When we fail to stand firmly, deeply rooted in the truth of His word, we can end up doing the opposite of James 4:7. By submitting to our flesh, even the devil, we in turn resist God.
Let's ask the Lord why we respond the way we do to the pressures of life. There is usually a pattern that emerges in this pressure cooker moment where we are the most vulnerable to temptation. When some are stressed, they may over eat, shop, become talkative, or become very quiet and shut down. Stress shines a light on a deeper root issue that God can only remedy.
Once again, we need to learn what it means to stand by submitting to God. This is an interesting form of resistance but if we don't yeild to the Lord we run the risk of trying to manage stress in our own strength.
The promise of God's word is that true submssion produces resistance to the devil. The devil will find himself "stressed" by our obedience. So, we don't need to live in a place of heighten anxiety, but bow your knee to Christ and the stress will roll right off and on to the devil, who will be resisted by a submitted believer!
James 4:7 instructs us first submit to God and then resist the devil and he shall flee. In the orginal resist means take a complete stand against, i.e. a "180 degree, contrary position" (Bible Suite by Biblos).
Likewise Ephesians 6:13 says, "Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand." (KJV).
Stress tries to call us back to old places, sinful habits or ungodly relationships for temporary relief. Unfortunately, this leads to frustration and more stress because it's never enough. Sadly, finding our relief outside of God creates a separation in our relationship with Him.
When we fail to stand firmly, deeply rooted in the truth of His word, we can end up doing the opposite of James 4:7. By submitting to our flesh, even the devil, we in turn resist God.
Let's ask the Lord why we respond the way we do to the pressures of life. There is usually a pattern that emerges in this pressure cooker moment where we are the most vulnerable to temptation. When some are stressed, they may over eat, shop, become talkative, or become very quiet and shut down. Stress shines a light on a deeper root issue that God can only remedy.
Once again, we need to learn what it means to stand by submitting to God. This is an interesting form of resistance but if we don't yeild to the Lord we run the risk of trying to manage stress in our own strength.
The promise of God's word is that true submssion produces resistance to the devil. The devil will find himself "stressed" by our obedience. So, we don't need to live in a place of heighten anxiety, but bow your knee to Christ and the stress will roll right off and on to the devil, who will be resisted by a submitted believer!
Leave Her Alone
After the woman broke an expensive perfume and poured it over Jesus’ head as an act of worship, He turned and rebuked the religious rulers, "Leave her alone," said Jesus. "Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me.” (Mark 14:6 NIV).
And Jesus says to Martha, “…but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:42 NIV).
When we offer the most precious thing to the Lord, the very thing close to our hearts – it could be an expression of our deepest longings, our long nights of tears from pain, or a desire to be free from a hidden sinful habit – and in our worship we freely surrender it to Him.
In that beautiful exchange, the Lord does something wonderful. He becomes our public defender! He surrounds the broken, downcast and hurting to protect them from the onslaught of the religious and the arrogant.
He does so by shutting the mouth of the critics by using our lives as an illustration of His mercy.
Paul’s describes it best in I Corinthians 4:9, “For I think that God hath set forth us the apostles last, as it were appointed to death: for we are made a spectacle unto the world, and to angels, and to men.” (KJV). The Greek word for spectacle is theater.
We are part of God’s beautiful unfolding drama as He changes us from the inside out. We are the foolish on display to shut the mouths of those who profess to be wise. Our once broken lives now mended stun those who thought we were completely ruined.
We are given a precious promise from God who never shames us but crowns us with grace. We are given a revelation of Christ through the Holy Spirit. This will never be taken away! No one can separate us from His love so we are safe, secured and protected.
God tells the world and to those who wish to harm us (the church), “Leave her alone”!
And Jesus says to Martha, “…but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:42 NIV).
When we offer the most precious thing to the Lord, the very thing close to our hearts – it could be an expression of our deepest longings, our long nights of tears from pain, or a desire to be free from a hidden sinful habit – and in our worship we freely surrender it to Him.
In that beautiful exchange, the Lord does something wonderful. He becomes our public defender! He surrounds the broken, downcast and hurting to protect them from the onslaught of the religious and the arrogant.
He does so by shutting the mouth of the critics by using our lives as an illustration of His mercy.
Paul’s describes it best in I Corinthians 4:9, “For I think that God hath set forth us the apostles last, as it were appointed to death: for we are made a spectacle unto the world, and to angels, and to men.” (KJV). The Greek word for spectacle is theater.
We are part of God’s beautiful unfolding drama as He changes us from the inside out. We are the foolish on display to shut the mouths of those who profess to be wise. Our once broken lives now mended stun those who thought we were completely ruined.
We are given a precious promise from God who never shames us but crowns us with grace. We are given a revelation of Christ through the Holy Spirit. This will never be taken away! No one can separate us from His love so we are safe, secured and protected.
God tells the world and to those who wish to harm us (the church), “Leave her alone”!
Monday, January 14, 2013
A Hollow Place
Samson was a man driven by roaring, fleshly appetites. He can be easily enraged or quickly seduced or act like a petulant child when he demanded his parents to get him a Philistine wife.
Despite his weakness and sins, God used him to bring his people deliverance from the oppression of the Philistines.
Even after a stunning victory when Samson killed 1,000 Philistines with a jaw bone, he complained for the lack of water (Judges 15:18). The Lord answered him and out of a hollow placed filled it with cool, refreshing water (verse 19).
Samson's complaint echoes the same murmuring of the Israelites for water in the wilderness. What should have been an opportunity to trust the Lord in providing fresh water, became a place of bitter contention. The place was called Marah (Exodus 15:23-24).
For Samson, it was a hollow place, empty and void despite a triumphant battle. Why? Because he missed an opportunity to simply trust God for provision. In his flesh, Samson complained and demanded for his urgent need to be met.
What if Samson denied his thirst long enough to ask what was the Lord's need for Samson? The need for a man to trust Him, to walk and commune with Him? Not a relationship based on meeting demands and desires, but simply to love Him.
In those moments when we feel crushed by the weight of our pressing needs all the Lord desires from us is that we draw close to Him.
Listen to Him. Adore Him. Take His hand and walk with Him. For you see, God longs to take our hollow places and fill them with living water. When we have emptied our selves, God can fill us afresh!
Let's stop long enough to ask, "God, you already know my needs even before I ask You, but I want to know what is on your heart, your mind. What is your longing? How I can bring pleasure to you today?"
Moses did just that by asking God to show him the glory of the Lord (Exodus 33:18). Later, God places Moses in a crevice (a hollowed out place) when His glory passed by him.
If we allow God to take our hollow places, those holes in our hearts and souls, He will make them a hallowed place where His presence will completely fill and satisfy.
Despite his weakness and sins, God used him to bring his people deliverance from the oppression of the Philistines.
Even after a stunning victory when Samson killed 1,000 Philistines with a jaw bone, he complained for the lack of water (Judges 15:18). The Lord answered him and out of a hollow placed filled it with cool, refreshing water (verse 19).
Samson's complaint echoes the same murmuring of the Israelites for water in the wilderness. What should have been an opportunity to trust the Lord in providing fresh water, became a place of bitter contention. The place was called Marah (Exodus 15:23-24).
For Samson, it was a hollow place, empty and void despite a triumphant battle. Why? Because he missed an opportunity to simply trust God for provision. In his flesh, Samson complained and demanded for his urgent need to be met.
What if Samson denied his thirst long enough to ask what was the Lord's need for Samson? The need for a man to trust Him, to walk and commune with Him? Not a relationship based on meeting demands and desires, but simply to love Him.
In those moments when we feel crushed by the weight of our pressing needs all the Lord desires from us is that we draw close to Him.
Listen to Him. Adore Him. Take His hand and walk with Him. For you see, God longs to take our hollow places and fill them with living water. When we have emptied our selves, God can fill us afresh!
Let's stop long enough to ask, "God, you already know my needs even before I ask You, but I want to know what is on your heart, your mind. What is your longing? How I can bring pleasure to you today?"
Moses did just that by asking God to show him the glory of the Lord (Exodus 33:18). Later, God places Moses in a crevice (a hollowed out place) when His glory passed by him.
If we allow God to take our hollow places, those holes in our hearts and souls, He will make them a hallowed place where His presence will completely fill and satisfy.
Sunday, January 13, 2013
Silencing the Enemy
Isaiah 25:4-5 gives a strong promise that God will silence the voice of the Enemy.
For thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall. Thou shalt bring down the noise of strangers, as the heat in a dry place; even the heat with the shadow of a cloud: the branch of the terrible ones shall be brought low.
We live in a world where silence is not so much golden but uncomfortable. Our culture is a culture of endless talk and noise. People are on the phone, listening to music or to the radio, or busy with a flurry of activities. For in silence, our conscience speaks louder and clearer of who and what we have become when the roar of everyday life is quieted.
For many Christians, it's a daily struggle to hear and discern the voice of God. The Devil, our accuser, will try to mimick the voice of God or use our own voice. We can know the voice of God from the Enemy because the Lord's voice will always produce a sense of peace.
When the voices of doubt, fear and failure rise up like a blast from the terrible ones (type of demonic spirits), we can ask God to quiet us in His love (Zephaniah 3:17).
King David said it best in Psalms 132:2, "Instead, I have calmed and quieted myself, like a weaned child who no longer cries for its mother's milk. Yes, like a weaned child is my soul within me." (NLT). David had learned what is to quiet himself before the Lord, resting only in His love.
When you are troubled by voices be it your own or the Enemy go sit before the Lord. I have done this on occassion by going into a room and closing the door and the lights off (to prevent distraction) and pray: Lord still my heart. I'm afraid and overwhelmed. Help me to remember Your goodness and mercy. Steady my mind on You. I'm anxious but You said to present my requests with thankgiving and your peace will guard my heart and mind. Now, O Lord give me Your peace!
When you call to mind God's word and declare it (vocally, outloud)you will hear God's voice speak over the voices of the terrible ones. And those voices will be silenced!
For thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall. Thou shalt bring down the noise of strangers, as the heat in a dry place; even the heat with the shadow of a cloud: the branch of the terrible ones shall be brought low.
We live in a world where silence is not so much golden but uncomfortable. Our culture is a culture of endless talk and noise. People are on the phone, listening to music or to the radio, or busy with a flurry of activities. For in silence, our conscience speaks louder and clearer of who and what we have become when the roar of everyday life is quieted.
For many Christians, it's a daily struggle to hear and discern the voice of God. The Devil, our accuser, will try to mimick the voice of God or use our own voice. We can know the voice of God from the Enemy because the Lord's voice will always produce a sense of peace.
When the voices of doubt, fear and failure rise up like a blast from the terrible ones (type of demonic spirits), we can ask God to quiet us in His love (Zephaniah 3:17).
King David said it best in Psalms 132:2, "Instead, I have calmed and quieted myself, like a weaned child who no longer cries for its mother's milk. Yes, like a weaned child is my soul within me." (NLT). David had learned what is to quiet himself before the Lord, resting only in His love.
When you are troubled by voices be it your own or the Enemy go sit before the Lord. I have done this on occassion by going into a room and closing the door and the lights off (to prevent distraction) and pray: Lord still my heart. I'm afraid and overwhelmed. Help me to remember Your goodness and mercy. Steady my mind on You. I'm anxious but You said to present my requests with thankgiving and your peace will guard my heart and mind. Now, O Lord give me Your peace!
When you call to mind God's word and declare it (vocally, outloud)you will hear God's voice speak over the voices of the terrible ones. And those voices will be silenced!
A Little is A Lot
I work downtown and often will hear men and women calling out for spare change. They would be pressed up against a building, hand extended and eyes shifting among the passing pedestrians hoping to be noticed and heard. More often than not, I don't stop or glance in their direction as I hurry into the office.
He challenges me give the smallest amount of whatever is in my hand so He can increase it for the person in need. He will tell me to look the individual in the eyes so they are no longer invisible, but seen and acknowledged. To speak kindly and gently to them, with respect and care, regardless of their response. I'm in essence to be Christ to them - His hands and feet.
I've learned the little that I give away will stretch my heart to be more open and wider to the things of God. The blessings of God are never to be kept close to the chest, but freely given away!
Think of the widow who gave all she had into the temple treasury. She held nothing back, even when it meant having nothing at all once she deposited the money. Jesus says, "I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others" (Mark 12:43 NIV). She had an eternal and higher value system than those who found their worth in material possessions.
Often it's not the big, flashy and attractive things that make the most difference. It's often the small things that make the greatest impact. Jesus illustrating the kingdom of God speaks of it like a tiny mustard seed in Matthew 13:31-32.
"The Kingdom of Heaven is like a mustard seed planted in a field. It is the smallest of all seeds, but it becomes the largest of garden plants; it grows into a tree, and birds come and make nests in its branches." (NLT).
God will grow our deposit not only in the life we help, but He will makes us like a strong tree. Our branches will extend even farther than we can imagine. Others will find shelter under our shade and eat of the fruit God has produced in our lives because we are willing to give away the little we possessed. In Christ, we are never diminished, but enriched to give away even more!
He challenges me give the smallest amount of whatever is in my hand so He can increase it for the person in need. He will tell me to look the individual in the eyes so they are no longer invisible, but seen and acknowledged. To speak kindly and gently to them, with respect and care, regardless of their response. I'm in essence to be Christ to them - His hands and feet.
I've learned the little that I give away will stretch my heart to be more open and wider to the things of God. The blessings of God are never to be kept close to the chest, but freely given away!
Think of the widow who gave all she had into the temple treasury. She held nothing back, even when it meant having nothing at all once she deposited the money. Jesus says, "I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others" (Mark 12:43 NIV). She had an eternal and higher value system than those who found their worth in material possessions.
Often it's not the big, flashy and attractive things that make the most difference. It's often the small things that make the greatest impact. Jesus illustrating the kingdom of God speaks of it like a tiny mustard seed in Matthew 13:31-32.
"The Kingdom of Heaven is like a mustard seed planted in a field. It is the smallest of all seeds, but it becomes the largest of garden plants; it grows into a tree, and birds come and make nests in its branches." (NLT).
God will grow our deposit not only in the life we help, but He will makes us like a strong tree. Our branches will extend even farther than we can imagine. Others will find shelter under our shade and eat of the fruit God has produced in our lives because we are willing to give away the little we possessed. In Christ, we are never diminished, but enriched to give away even more!
Friday, January 11, 2013
Say Goodbye to Cloudy Days
Storms are created when a center of low pressure develops, with a system of high pressure surrounding it. This combination of opposing forces can create winds and result in the formation of storm clouds, such as the cumulonimbus. (Wikipedia).
When we awake in the morning and our feet touch the floor, we feel the full weight of the day pulling us down. A low pressure develops. Somewhere between sleep and the state of semi-consciousness, we instantly reflect on yesterday’s events and what we might expect to happen today. The high pressure of stress builds and forms a dark cloud that settles over our minds.
This is common storm of depression.
With its billowing regrets and missteps, the landscape of our minds is littered by promises to do better. Only to find ourselves failing and sinking deeper into despair. Our eyes whelm up with tears like the rain that begins to fall. We recall how we hurt those we love by our cruel words and spiteful actions. How we have come short in pleasing God. The howling wind of our conscience reminds us of our defeat and shame. It might be better if we were dead, so says the voice of the Enemy, who seductively whispers and hisses in a dust devil of confusion.
But God has a precious promise for those are weighed down by sin. When sin feels like a mountain, crushing us with its incredible force and weight, God blows it away like a misty cloud.
I have swept away your offenses like a cloud, your sins like the morning mist. Return to me, for I have redeemed you” Isaiah 44:12 (NIV).
This Scripture reminds us to return to Him. He is our shelter in a time of storm. And if we have truly repented and confessed our sins, God is faithful to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (I John 1:9). This is the promise for the redeemed!
So if the storm of depression tries to steal our light and joy, remember the words of the disciples after Jesus rebuked the storm, “…even the wind and the waves obey him!” Mark 4:41 (NIV). No greater power and authority than the word of God to blow away the dark clouds and let the rays of His glory shine!
When we awake in the morning and our feet touch the floor, we feel the full weight of the day pulling us down. A low pressure develops. Somewhere between sleep and the state of semi-consciousness, we instantly reflect on yesterday’s events and what we might expect to happen today. The high pressure of stress builds and forms a dark cloud that settles over our minds.
This is common storm of depression.
With its billowing regrets and missteps, the landscape of our minds is littered by promises to do better. Only to find ourselves failing and sinking deeper into despair. Our eyes whelm up with tears like the rain that begins to fall. We recall how we hurt those we love by our cruel words and spiteful actions. How we have come short in pleasing God. The howling wind of our conscience reminds us of our defeat and shame. It might be better if we were dead, so says the voice of the Enemy, who seductively whispers and hisses in a dust devil of confusion.
But God has a precious promise for those are weighed down by sin. When sin feels like a mountain, crushing us with its incredible force and weight, God blows it away like a misty cloud.
I have swept away your offenses like a cloud, your sins like the morning mist. Return to me, for I have redeemed you” Isaiah 44:12 (NIV).
This Scripture reminds us to return to Him. He is our shelter in a time of storm. And if we have truly repented and confessed our sins, God is faithful to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (I John 1:9). This is the promise for the redeemed!
So if the storm of depression tries to steal our light and joy, remember the words of the disciples after Jesus rebuked the storm, “…even the wind and the waves obey him!” Mark 4:41 (NIV). No greater power and authority than the word of God to blow away the dark clouds and let the rays of His glory shine!
Thursday, January 10, 2013
God Rewrites our Story
God can rewrite our personal history stained by tragedy and failure.
He can even rewrite our families history or for that matter, an entire nation. A people who might have known the horrors of war or have been destroyed by social and spiritual ills can be brought back to life again. This is truly a testament to the power of God to transform lives!
It is easy to look at the loose ends of our lives and draw conclusions.
This is all that is left of my life. I’m stuck and this will never change or why even try when it will just fail.
Remember Job was severely afflicted having his land destroyed, his children killed, and health ruined by boils. He could have easily believed this was his end. Even his close friends wrote him off and his wife encouraged him to curse God.
But the Lord rewrote his story, “The LORD blessed the latter part of Job's life more than the first (Job 42:12a).
We must be patient letting God take the rough drafts of our story and rewrite them. It might mean a painful editing of our limited version of events in exchange for His conclusion. He is after all the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2).
Ecclesiastes 7:8 reads, “Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit” (KJV).
We must be patient in spirit. Our endings are God's beginning to a whole new chapter in our lives!
He can even rewrite our families history or for that matter, an entire nation. A people who might have known the horrors of war or have been destroyed by social and spiritual ills can be brought back to life again. This is truly a testament to the power of God to transform lives!
It is easy to look at the loose ends of our lives and draw conclusions.
This is all that is left of my life. I’m stuck and this will never change or why even try when it will just fail.
Remember Job was severely afflicted having his land destroyed, his children killed, and health ruined by boils. He could have easily believed this was his end. Even his close friends wrote him off and his wife encouraged him to curse God.
But the Lord rewrote his story, “The LORD blessed the latter part of Job's life more than the first (Job 42:12a).
We must be patient letting God take the rough drafts of our story and rewrite them. It might mean a painful editing of our limited version of events in exchange for His conclusion. He is after all the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2).
Ecclesiastes 7:8 reads, “Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit” (KJV).
We must be patient in spirit. Our endings are God's beginning to a whole new chapter in our lives!
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
The End of Weakness Is Perfected Power
At times, we all feel inadequate. There might a problem or situation that seems overwhelming and too challenging to overcome. We may find ourselves at a disadvantage from reaching our full potential because of poor education, a broken home or simply being cash strapped to a tight budget.
Other descriptive words for inadequacy are deficient, short, insufficient, lacking, low, scarce, shy and wanting.
Do any of these words describe how we feel at the end of a busy day? Our strength is low while our impatience is rising while we sit in bottle neck traffic. Soon enough, we lack the strength to keep our temper in check. Or when the Lord asks us to reach out to a neighbor or family member? We became shy and reticent rather than being bold and courageous. Instead we mumble something about God and hope they don't ask us to repeat it.
The Apostle Paul writes, “and in Him you have been made complete, and He is the head over all rule and authority” (Colossians 2:10 NASB). The key phrase in this verse is in Him we have been made complete. Jesus said, apart from Him we can do nothing (John 15:5). Only in Christ can we have an effectual and fruitful life which brings true satisfaction. There is no want in Christ so a satisfied heart is confident, restful and at peace.
Paul makes an interesting statement in 2 Corinthians 12:9 as he describes the power of God being made perfect in weakness. In the original, perfect means "rolling-over" to the next level (phase) of consummation.
When we find ourselves feeling inadequate don’t follow its destructive path. Rather allow the Lord to bring us to the end of your self efforts and attempts do something (anything) in the flesh. For at the end of our weakness, we will find His strength to overcome. And in that end, Christ “rolls over” our inadequacies into the perfecting power of God to change us!
Other descriptive words for inadequacy are deficient, short, insufficient, lacking, low, scarce, shy and wanting.
Do any of these words describe how we feel at the end of a busy day? Our strength is low while our impatience is rising while we sit in bottle neck traffic. Soon enough, we lack the strength to keep our temper in check. Or when the Lord asks us to reach out to a neighbor or family member? We became shy and reticent rather than being bold and courageous. Instead we mumble something about God and hope they don't ask us to repeat it.
The Apostle Paul writes, “and in Him you have been made complete, and He is the head over all rule and authority” (Colossians 2:10 NASB). The key phrase in this verse is in Him we have been made complete. Jesus said, apart from Him we can do nothing (John 15:5). Only in Christ can we have an effectual and fruitful life which brings true satisfaction. There is no want in Christ so a satisfied heart is confident, restful and at peace.
Paul makes an interesting statement in 2 Corinthians 12:9 as he describes the power of God being made perfect in weakness. In the original, perfect means "rolling-over" to the next level (phase) of consummation.
When we find ourselves feeling inadequate don’t follow its destructive path. Rather allow the Lord to bring us to the end of your self efforts and attempts do something (anything) in the flesh. For at the end of our weakness, we will find His strength to overcome. And in that end, Christ “rolls over” our inadequacies into the perfecting power of God to change us!
Jehovah-shammah
Jehovah-shammah means the Lord is there (see Ezekiel 48:35).
At 75 years old, Abram received a call from the Lord to leave his country, his people and all that he had known in Haran(Genesis 12:1-5).
There will be times and seasons where the Lord will call us to get up and move. It takes trust in the Almighty as in Abram's life because the Lord said, "...go to the land I will show you" (verse 1). Most of us would ask the Lord, even demand for more details, confirmations or some tangible evidence that this was indeed God's desire. Abram simply got up and left. Faith was apparent when Abram rose to his feet, gathered his family and possessions, and left Haran. He never questioned or raised an argument. And the Lord didn't provide a road map or a plan to what Abram should do once he arrived in the land of Canaan.
It's not clear how the Lord spoke to Abram in verse 1. It could be in a vision, by an angel or an audible voice or an impression. What we do know is that once Abram arrived the Lord appeared and reaffirmed the covenant (verse 7). Abram's response was to build an altar to the God who appeared to him.
Jehovah-shammah -the God who is there- in Canaan waiting for Abram's arrival.
When the Lord opens a door it may appear from the surface to be rough, difficult and almost impassable but on the other side is Jehovah-shammah. He's there waiting for you to enter into the promises He's long to fulfill. So we have to get up by faith and move from here to over there.
At 75 years old, Abram received a call from the Lord to leave his country, his people and all that he had known in Haran(Genesis 12:1-5).
There will be times and seasons where the Lord will call us to get up and move. It takes trust in the Almighty as in Abram's life because the Lord said, "...go to the land I will show you" (verse 1). Most of us would ask the Lord, even demand for more details, confirmations or some tangible evidence that this was indeed God's desire. Abram simply got up and left. Faith was apparent when Abram rose to his feet, gathered his family and possessions, and left Haran. He never questioned or raised an argument. And the Lord didn't provide a road map or a plan to what Abram should do once he arrived in the land of Canaan.
It's not clear how the Lord spoke to Abram in verse 1. It could be in a vision, by an angel or an audible voice or an impression. What we do know is that once Abram arrived the Lord appeared and reaffirmed the covenant (verse 7). Abram's response was to build an altar to the God who appeared to him.
Jehovah-shammah -the God who is there- in Canaan waiting for Abram's arrival.
When the Lord opens a door it may appear from the surface to be rough, difficult and almost impassable but on the other side is Jehovah-shammah. He's there waiting for you to enter into the promises He's long to fulfill. So we have to get up by faith and move from here to over there.
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
An Ordered Mind
We live in a world where minds are becoming increasing darkened and depraved. Confusion, depression, suicidal thoughts and demonic images cloud their once rational minds until they commit a violent act. Stress bears down on the man who is fearful of losing his job and wondering how he is take care of his children. A soldier returning from war are haunted by what they witnessed. A spouse goes to bed at night only to toss and turn in their sleep, tormented by a secret they are afraid could be exposed.
The believer is not exempt in experiencing times of confusion, emotional pain, doubts and sadness that can so easily distort the mind. What often results is a lack of peace, a surety that God is in control.
When God created the earth is was formless and void (Genesis 1:2). The Hebrew words tohu and bohu mean emptiness and confusion. In some ways this describes a type of mind without the Spirit of God. Devoid and empty, given to confusion and disorder.
For the believer, God's word, much as He did in speaking creation into existence, brings order to our mind. We have in Christ a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7). The Greek word defines sound mind as reasonable, safe-minded and sensible. All the qualities we need to have an ordered mind in a chaotic world.
Beloved, each day we must read His word and declare out loud (that's right, open your mouth and speak aloud the passage of Scripture). Faith comes by hearing and hearing the word of God - listening helps resonate the truth of what is spoken.
You can do this by reading a Psalms or some other passage and pray through it. For example, Psalms 23 say the Lord is my Shepherd. "Father, I'm not alone because your are my Shepherd! Guide me through this day because your word says Your sheep know your voice. Oh, Lord I desire to hear your voice, and your voice alone!"
As you stand on His word, peace will flow and your mind will be renewed, refresh and ordered.
The believer is not exempt in experiencing times of confusion, emotional pain, doubts and sadness that can so easily distort the mind. What often results is a lack of peace, a surety that God is in control.
When God created the earth is was formless and void (Genesis 1:2). The Hebrew words tohu and bohu mean emptiness and confusion. In some ways this describes a type of mind without the Spirit of God. Devoid and empty, given to confusion and disorder.
For the believer, God's word, much as He did in speaking creation into existence, brings order to our mind. We have in Christ a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7). The Greek word defines sound mind as reasonable, safe-minded and sensible. All the qualities we need to have an ordered mind in a chaotic world.
Beloved, each day we must read His word and declare out loud (that's right, open your mouth and speak aloud the passage of Scripture). Faith comes by hearing and hearing the word of God - listening helps resonate the truth of what is spoken.
You can do this by reading a Psalms or some other passage and pray through it. For example, Psalms 23 say the Lord is my Shepherd. "Father, I'm not alone because your are my Shepherd! Guide me through this day because your word says Your sheep know your voice. Oh, Lord I desire to hear your voice, and your voice alone!"
As you stand on His word, peace will flow and your mind will be renewed, refresh and ordered.
Sunday, January 6, 2013
Wise Counsel
From the moment we get up in the morning until the end of the day we are constantly making decisions. Some decisions come instantly others take some minor decision processing like what will you eat or wear for work. Some decisions are already made for us. For example, most companies have a dress code or require a uniform.
Your drive is obstructed by construction and a detour sign directs you to a side road then back to the main street. When life is predictable, mundane and expected not much is required in making decisions.
After a while trust in the Lord, like a muscle can become underdeveloped or result in atrophy. What was appreciated becomes expected and taken for granted. We quickly learn how little we trust until a crisis or some other event suddenly alters our normal routine.
To cultivate trust is to present to the Lord every decision. Yes, every decision throughout the day. By doing so, we are fulfilling the Scripture to pray without ceasing.
Lord, should I send this email? Give me wisdom in how I should respond.
God does this outfit draw attention away from Christ and puts me as an object for someone to stumble over? Or am I dressing this way because I want (him or her) at work to notice me?
Help me to pick out the best and healthy foods for lunch because God this is your temple. You know how much I like fried and sweet foods.
But it’s the major decisions which trouble us the most because we can’t see the distant future, so to speak, of the consequences that might result. This could be asking the Lord for a mate, taking a job in a different state, or what do with a rebellious teenager etc.
Proverbs 16:33 says, “We may throw the dice, but the LORD determines how they fall” (NLT). The word determine in the original means judgment. In other words, we present our petitions to God with thanksgiving and let Him have full say in the matter. We must learn to leave the decision in the Lord’s lap. We are not to pick it up and toy with it. Rather,we let the Lord examine (or judge) our heart's intent, so whatever He decides, all honor and glory is given to Him, alone.
To trust God means to be patient, wait and endure while he “judges” our petitions. The best decision is the decision the Lord makes because it will always produce peace.
Your drive is obstructed by construction and a detour sign directs you to a side road then back to the main street. When life is predictable, mundane and expected not much is required in making decisions.
After a while trust in the Lord, like a muscle can become underdeveloped or result in atrophy. What was appreciated becomes expected and taken for granted. We quickly learn how little we trust until a crisis or some other event suddenly alters our normal routine.
To cultivate trust is to present to the Lord every decision. Yes, every decision throughout the day. By doing so, we are fulfilling the Scripture to pray without ceasing.
Lord, should I send this email? Give me wisdom in how I should respond.
God does this outfit draw attention away from Christ and puts me as an object for someone to stumble over? Or am I dressing this way because I want (him or her) at work to notice me?
Help me to pick out the best and healthy foods for lunch because God this is your temple. You know how much I like fried and sweet foods.
But it’s the major decisions which trouble us the most because we can’t see the distant future, so to speak, of the consequences that might result. This could be asking the Lord for a mate, taking a job in a different state, or what do with a rebellious teenager etc.
Proverbs 16:33 says, “We may throw the dice, but the LORD determines how they fall” (NLT). The word determine in the original means judgment. In other words, we present our petitions to God with thanksgiving and let Him have full say in the matter. We must learn to leave the decision in the Lord’s lap. We are not to pick it up and toy with it. Rather,we let the Lord examine (or judge) our heart's intent, so whatever He decides, all honor and glory is given to Him, alone.
To trust God means to be patient, wait and endure while he “judges” our petitions. The best decision is the decision the Lord makes because it will always produce peace.
Saturday, January 5, 2013
Quieted in Loved
We can quickly be disturbed by what we read or see in the news - the violence in our schools, the political and economic conditions and natural disasters wiping away homes and destroying lives. We may be anxious for our jobs wondering if this is the day we receive a pink slip. Our family members may undergoing stressful events such as an illness, strained relationships and other trying circumstances.
God has a remedy, a precious promise for us found in Zephaniah 3:17.
The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing (NIV). In these trying and difficult days, we need to declare these truths.
1. Emmanuel, God is with us (Matthew 1:23). We are not alone God is an ever present help in time of need. He is a just a whisper away. Lord, help us, we need You in this hour!
2. He is mighty to save. When we feel as if we are going under for the last time, God has more than enough strength to lift us up. Remember Peter walking on the water? When he looked about him seeing the waves and feeling the stormy winds, his eyes were on the conditions around him, not on Christ. It says in Matthew 14:31, immediately Jesus reached out His hand. The Lord will keep us from sinking in the seas of despair and despondency. Rather let's use this opportunity to trust Him more and rest (yes, rest) in His power to deliver!
3. God delights in us. What joy and pleasure in the thought that God delights in us. Even in the midst of pain, difficulty and mounting fears, nothing can separate us from His love. To think we bring Him pleasure by simply placing our hands in His mighty grasp and say, God we give you full control of our lives! Take us, lead us, guide us!
4. His love quiets our heart. There is no sweeter, greater and richer love than God's love. His love is not earned or deserved and it's not conditioned on how well we are doing, but simply because He loves us. His love gives us confidence that overrides our hearts that can easily be weighed down by guilt, shame and condemnation (I John 3:20).
5. God sings over us. Songs of victory and joy! Songs of a bright, glorious future.
Yet the LORD will command his lovingkindness in the daytime, and in the night his song shall be with me, and my prayer unto the God of my life. Psalms 42:8 (KJV).
This is a message from the Lord to someone: I give you peace not as the world gives, but lasting peace. Rest your head, my beloved. The fever of fear, I will wipe away from your mind, and your heart will be calmed. The tears you shed in the dark will be turned to joy in the morning - for my joy is your strength!
God has a remedy, a precious promise for us found in Zephaniah 3:17.
The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing (NIV). In these trying and difficult days, we need to declare these truths.
1. Emmanuel, God is with us (Matthew 1:23). We are not alone God is an ever present help in time of need. He is a just a whisper away. Lord, help us, we need You in this hour!
2. He is mighty to save. When we feel as if we are going under for the last time, God has more than enough strength to lift us up. Remember Peter walking on the water? When he looked about him seeing the waves and feeling the stormy winds, his eyes were on the conditions around him, not on Christ. It says in Matthew 14:31, immediately Jesus reached out His hand. The Lord will keep us from sinking in the seas of despair and despondency. Rather let's use this opportunity to trust Him more and rest (yes, rest) in His power to deliver!
3. God delights in us. What joy and pleasure in the thought that God delights in us. Even in the midst of pain, difficulty and mounting fears, nothing can separate us from His love. To think we bring Him pleasure by simply placing our hands in His mighty grasp and say, God we give you full control of our lives! Take us, lead us, guide us!
4. His love quiets our heart. There is no sweeter, greater and richer love than God's love. His love is not earned or deserved and it's not conditioned on how well we are doing, but simply because He loves us. His love gives us confidence that overrides our hearts that can easily be weighed down by guilt, shame and condemnation (I John 3:20).
5. God sings over us. Songs of victory and joy! Songs of a bright, glorious future.
Yet the LORD will command his lovingkindness in the daytime, and in the night his song shall be with me, and my prayer unto the God of my life. Psalms 42:8 (KJV).
This is a message from the Lord to someone: I give you peace not as the world gives, but lasting peace. Rest your head, my beloved. The fever of fear, I will wipe away from your mind, and your heart will be calmed. The tears you shed in the dark will be turned to joy in the morning - for my joy is your strength!
Friday, January 4, 2013
A Different Spirit
What comes to mind when you think of someone being different? A person who is a non-conformist? Someone who exhibits unusual behaviors or traits? Or perhaps an individual gifted by rare talent and abilities?
As children of God, we are called to make a difference in this world by living very different lives than that of the world. For the most part, the world lives by instinct and feeling, driven by needs and ambition. These are lives that move from one event to another event and from one experience to the next – all in hopes to fill that inexplicable void and emptiness as result of a life outside of Christ.
Godly character speaks louder than words because it attests to the life of Christ within us. For us to be different, it matters who and what we are in Christ than what we do. Anything we do is a mere extension of God working His life in and through us so that we can make a Godly impress on those around us.
Caleb was a man with a different spirit and would enter the promise land while an entire generation of Israelites died in the wilderness (Number 14:24). At 80 years old, he entered the Promise Land. He took his rightful inheritance which at the time was ruled by giants (Joshua 14:10-13). I believe Caleb’s different spirit had such an impact that his son-in-law, Othniel, would be the first deliverer and judge in Israel.
I believe people are not looking for perfection. They are more interested in how a true man or woman of God can overcome failure, a crisis or any number of life’s troubles.
This is what truly sets us apart as being different.
As children of God, we are called to make a difference in this world by living very different lives than that of the world. For the most part, the world lives by instinct and feeling, driven by needs and ambition. These are lives that move from one event to another event and from one experience to the next – all in hopes to fill that inexplicable void and emptiness as result of a life outside of Christ.
Godly character speaks louder than words because it attests to the life of Christ within us. For us to be different, it matters who and what we are in Christ than what we do. Anything we do is a mere extension of God working His life in and through us so that we can make a Godly impress on those around us.
Caleb was a man with a different spirit and would enter the promise land while an entire generation of Israelites died in the wilderness (Number 14:24). At 80 years old, he entered the Promise Land. He took his rightful inheritance which at the time was ruled by giants (Joshua 14:10-13). I believe Caleb’s different spirit had such an impact that his son-in-law, Othniel, would be the first deliverer and judge in Israel.
I believe people are not looking for perfection. They are more interested in how a true man or woman of God can overcome failure, a crisis or any number of life’s troubles.
This is what truly sets us apart as being different.
Thursday, January 3, 2013
Fatal Compassion
King Saul disobeyed God’s command to utterly destroy the Amalekites. Rather, he spared the best of the sheep and oxen, including the king. I Samuel 15:9 says, “But Saul and the people spared Agag and the best of the sheep, the oxen, the fatlings, the lambs, and all that was good, and were unwilling to utterly destroy them. But everything despised and worthless, that they utterly destroyed” (I Samuel 15:9 NIV).
The word spare in the original means pity or compassion.
There are things God has asked us to not spare because of its long standing history of destruction it causes not just to ourselves but to our relationships. As believers, God is doing a deep work of sanctification by setting us apart from the way the world lives and behaves. Whatever God is asking us to separate ourselves from or let go we are not to give way to pity or compassion, but obey God.
King Saul reasoned away why he disobeyed. He said it was the prevailing voice of the people (peer pressure) and beside the best sheep and oxen was spared for sacrifice. After all the animals would be offered up to God! Certain, He will be pleased! Of course, it doesn’t answer why King Agag was spared other than to be Saul’s war trophy.
Disobedience is easy when we spin our own deceptive reasoning and give sin another name!
When we remember the destruction something has caused in our lives, we will not have pity on it but are more willing to see it destroyed. Saul forgot what the Amalekites did to the Israelites who were weary and worn out on their wilderness journey (Deuteronomy 25:17-19).
Saul’s disobedience had far reaching consequences. Later we read of Haman in the book of Esther who wanted to destroy the Jews. Haman was a descendant of Agag (Esther 9:24).
When we spare sin in our lives we reserve an enemy in the future.
The word spare in the original means pity or compassion.
There are things God has asked us to not spare because of its long standing history of destruction it causes not just to ourselves but to our relationships. As believers, God is doing a deep work of sanctification by setting us apart from the way the world lives and behaves. Whatever God is asking us to separate ourselves from or let go we are not to give way to pity or compassion, but obey God.
King Saul reasoned away why he disobeyed. He said it was the prevailing voice of the people (peer pressure) and beside the best sheep and oxen was spared for sacrifice. After all the animals would be offered up to God! Certain, He will be pleased! Of course, it doesn’t answer why King Agag was spared other than to be Saul’s war trophy.
Disobedience is easy when we spin our own deceptive reasoning and give sin another name!
When we remember the destruction something has caused in our lives, we will not have pity on it but are more willing to see it destroyed. Saul forgot what the Amalekites did to the Israelites who were weary and worn out on their wilderness journey (Deuteronomy 25:17-19).
Saul’s disobedience had far reaching consequences. Later we read of Haman in the book of Esther who wanted to destroy the Jews. Haman was a descendant of Agag (Esther 9:24).
When we spare sin in our lives we reserve an enemy in the future.
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
What Really Matters?
Are you facing difficult situations where there is no clear guidance? Friends can offer only so much advice and comfort but sometimes lack firm direction. Or does it seem that simple questions only results in more unanswered questions leaving you overwhelmed and confused?
You may try to sift through what is urgent and what can wait but everything seems to bear down on your shoulders with equal pressure. Every day life demands a response. Soon you are left with no strength and wonder: What really matters?
The Apostle Paul writes to the Philippians 1:10, “For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ's return” (NLT).
The word ‘understand’ in the original means to prove, test and examine. And nothing more will be tested in this life than our faith in Christ.
Peter writes, That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ” (I Peter 1:7).
Above all the things we believe are important, urgent and need our attention immediately is that we learn to trust in the Lord at all times. When we learn to trust Him and not lean on our own limited understanding, our paths will be straight. In other words, because we trust Him, God knows best to bring order to our day and gives us strength and wisdom to respond to the demands placed on us.
So what really matters?
Believing God is able to do just as He promised. Though our faith may be tried it will only result in praise and honor to Jesus Christ.
For our present troubles are small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! (2 Corinthians 4:17, NLT).
You may try to sift through what is urgent and what can wait but everything seems to bear down on your shoulders with equal pressure. Every day life demands a response. Soon you are left with no strength and wonder: What really matters?
The Apostle Paul writes to the Philippians 1:10, “For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ's return” (NLT).
The word ‘understand’ in the original means to prove, test and examine. And nothing more will be tested in this life than our faith in Christ.
Peter writes, That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ” (I Peter 1:7).
Above all the things we believe are important, urgent and need our attention immediately is that we learn to trust in the Lord at all times. When we learn to trust Him and not lean on our own limited understanding, our paths will be straight. In other words, because we trust Him, God knows best to bring order to our day and gives us strength and wisdom to respond to the demands placed on us.
So what really matters?
Believing God is able to do just as He promised. Though our faith may be tried it will only result in praise and honor to Jesus Christ.
For our present troubles are small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! (2 Corinthians 4:17, NLT).
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
I Will Meditate
It's the first day of 2013 and what better way to start the day (and every day) on firm footing by meditating on God's past, present and future works? The work of His hands is truly an extension of His character.
Psalms 143:5-6 says, "I remember the days of long ago;I meditate on all your works and consider what your hands have done. I spread out my hands to you; my soul thirsts for you like a parched land" (NIV).
The original word for meditate in this passage means to "to moan, growl, utter, speak and muse".
After Moses died, Joshua was to lead the people of Israel into the Promise Land. In Joshua 1:8 God commands him to "Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do" (NLT).
True meditation isn't emptying out your negative thoughts, crossing your legs, humming to yourself and thinking up pretty pictures. No, it's rooted in studying the Scriptures, thinking and reflecting on them and most importantly, obeying what the Lord has revealed to you through His word. He gives us the grace and power to live out the truth He has deposited within us!
Mediation doesn't mean it always passive and relaxing. When we meditate it might mean we moan (as a result of repentance)or growl(remember Romans 8:26, the Spirit groans in intercession on our behalf)or we might rehearse back to the Lord what we believe the Scriptures are saying to our hearts(utter, speak and muse).
But always, true meditation on God's word cultivates a heart of obedience. It's not a self directed or self serving meditation, but a submitted mind and heart to God for His will and purposes to be fulfilled in and through us.
For the 1st day in 2013, let's think about the wonder and splendor of the Lord and as we do, we are changed from the inside out.
When Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the two tablets of the Testimony in his hands, he was not aware that his face was radiant because he had spoken with the LORD. Exodus 34:29 (NIV).
Psalms 143:5-6 says, "I remember the days of long ago;I meditate on all your works and consider what your hands have done. I spread out my hands to you; my soul thirsts for you like a parched land" (NIV).
The original word for meditate in this passage means to "to moan, growl, utter, speak and muse".
After Moses died, Joshua was to lead the people of Israel into the Promise Land. In Joshua 1:8 God commands him to "Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do" (NLT).
True meditation isn't emptying out your negative thoughts, crossing your legs, humming to yourself and thinking up pretty pictures. No, it's rooted in studying the Scriptures, thinking and reflecting on them and most importantly, obeying what the Lord has revealed to you through His word. He gives us the grace and power to live out the truth He has deposited within us!
Mediation doesn't mean it always passive and relaxing. When we meditate it might mean we moan (as a result of repentance)or growl(remember Romans 8:26, the Spirit groans in intercession on our behalf)or we might rehearse back to the Lord what we believe the Scriptures are saying to our hearts(utter, speak and muse).
But always, true meditation on God's word cultivates a heart of obedience. It's not a self directed or self serving meditation, but a submitted mind and heart to God for His will and purposes to be fulfilled in and through us.
For the 1st day in 2013, let's think about the wonder and splendor of the Lord and as we do, we are changed from the inside out.
When Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the two tablets of the Testimony in his hands, he was not aware that his face was radiant because he had spoken with the LORD. Exodus 34:29 (NIV).
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