Facial expressions is an important part of a meaningful dialogue. Although facial expressions can be misleading of what really is going on inside the mind and heart of the hearer.
We may read the movement of the eyes to see if they are focusing on what we are saying and most importantly, their eyes are on us rather than looking all around. Or we may watch the lips form a smile or see the corners of the mouth pulled down in a frown to detect emotions of pleasure or pain.
Some give themselves with their facial expression while others are frozen making it difficult to tell if they connect to the speaker or the subject being discussed.
Isaiah 54:8 says, "In a surge of anger I hid my face from you for a moment, but with everlasting kindness I will have compassion on you," says the LORD your Redeemer." (NIV).
When Moses spoke to the Lord, his face shone with the glory of God (Exodus 34:35). If we persist in rebellion and disobedience, the light in our eyes goes out. The Lord has hidden His face from us.
If there is a reason God's face is hidden is to cause us to seek Him. Psalms 80:3 says, "Turn us again to yourself, O God. Make your face shine down upon us. Only then will we be saved." (NLT). Without the sun, most of what supports life on earth would eventually die. Nothing is like a father looking in the eyes of his son or daughter with a deep, passionate love and devotion for his children.
Sadly, most of us can't look at our father or mother without turning away because it hurts. There is a cloud of shame and regret that block what could be a radiant expression of love.
Listen my dear beloved, God will not remain angry or hide His face forever, but will meet us with compassion. Like the father looking down the road for his prodigal son, God says to you, return! Your eyes will meet eyes full of love and forgiveness.
Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings (Psalms 17:18 NIV).
Saturday, March 30, 2013
A Time And A Season
Today I said my goodbyes to my co-workers. Although some three thousand miles away on the East Coast, I'll still continue with the company. It wasn't an emotional time, but more like a closing door, gently being sealed shut. They remained inside while I found my self passing through the halls, rooms and through the main door for the final time.
After fourteen years the season ended on a high note with much accomplished, both personally and in my current position. During my tenure, I'd held three positions, gained many friends and experienced seasons of pleasure and deep, saddening pain.
Strangely, after all these years there is very few things that I can recall that was outstanding, but I know that a different Andrew is leaving the Pacific Northwest.
Perhaps, it can be best described by Ecclesiastes 3:3 which says, "a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build," (NIV).
The journey with Christ has various times and seasons, often cyclical.
There is a time to kill - dreams, intents and desires that may be noble and good, but God's plans far exceed our own, and we learn to sacrifice them for the sake of His kingdom. Then those things that God so determines will be added (not subtracted) from us.
In our dying to self, God brings us into a season of healing where we are restored, refreshed and our souls are satisfied. Then a season of tearing down begins - whatever the Lord decides, it can our idols, walls of indifference or bitterness, etc. Followed by this season begins a time where the Lord rebuilds, strengthens our foundations and girds us up with renewed strength.
What season are you in? Can you trust God to bring you in and through this time where you are made more like Jesus?
After fourteen years the season ended on a high note with much accomplished, both personally and in my current position. During my tenure, I'd held three positions, gained many friends and experienced seasons of pleasure and deep, saddening pain.
Strangely, after all these years there is very few things that I can recall that was outstanding, but I know that a different Andrew is leaving the Pacific Northwest.
Perhaps, it can be best described by Ecclesiastes 3:3 which says, "a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build," (NIV).
The journey with Christ has various times and seasons, often cyclical.
There is a time to kill - dreams, intents and desires that may be noble and good, but God's plans far exceed our own, and we learn to sacrifice them for the sake of His kingdom. Then those things that God so determines will be added (not subtracted) from us.
In our dying to self, God brings us into a season of healing where we are restored, refreshed and our souls are satisfied. Then a season of tearing down begins - whatever the Lord decides, it can our idols, walls of indifference or bitterness, etc. Followed by this season begins a time where the Lord rebuilds, strengthens our foundations and girds us up with renewed strength.
What season are you in? Can you trust God to bring you in and through this time where you are made more like Jesus?
Friday, March 29, 2013
Land Of The Living
Beloved, if you can't face another day because you are in great emotional or physical pain, the Lord has a promise for you. To the one who has fallen headlong into sin, God has a word for you. For those who are resigning to a life of just getting through the day while depression saps your strength, God wants to speak to you. And for those who feel the full weight of shame, living with consequences you can't undo, God has a message of hope.
Psalms 11:17 says, "I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the LORD." (KJV).
Be encouraged beloved, God is working in and through your life. It's not over. Don't resign to the voices of defeat and despair. Turn away from those who say, "Give up, it's over, or what's the point."
Listen, my dear brother and sister, there is no wasted life God cannot restore. There are no squandered hours but God who is outside of time, understands we are but dust, helpless and our lives are fleeting. But for this moment, He is working to conform us to His image - a work that is eternal - while our troubles will not last always. The life of Christ in you is stronger than any bands of death that try to grip your heart and mind.
Take a moment right now. Lift up your hands to Him in complete surrender. Speak this Scripture in His hearing, "For you, LORD, have delivered me from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before the LORD in the land of the living." (Psalms 116:8-9, NIV).
Psalms 11:17 says, "I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the LORD." (KJV).
Be encouraged beloved, God is working in and through your life. It's not over. Don't resign to the voices of defeat and despair. Turn away from those who say, "Give up, it's over, or what's the point."
Listen, my dear brother and sister, there is no wasted life God cannot restore. There are no squandered hours but God who is outside of time, understands we are but dust, helpless and our lives are fleeting. But for this moment, He is working to conform us to His image - a work that is eternal - while our troubles will not last always. The life of Christ in you is stronger than any bands of death that try to grip your heart and mind.
Take a moment right now. Lift up your hands to Him in complete surrender. Speak this Scripture in His hearing, "For you, LORD, have delivered me from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before the LORD in the land of the living." (Psalms 116:8-9, NIV).
Thursday, March 28, 2013
Communing With God
Prayer in its simplest form is talking to a friend.
In the garden, God’s friends were Adam and Eve, who in turn responded by talking about Him (not to Him as we so often do in prayer as if He can’t hear or won’t answer). They talked about His beauty, His creation in the garden, of His glory and learned of His character. And by doing so they learned whose they were in relationship to Him.
Rather than our “spiral staircase” of self-discovery that too often leads us no higher than the second landing – panting and frustrated! God reveals Himself and in His light, we see ourselves more accurately.
In the garden, there was an utter dependence on God. There was no want or need other than Him. So their conversations were free of any ill intent, desire for fleshly gain and manipulation (like making promises and vows to condition God to perform miracles) which sadly muddles our prayers.
Just as it was in the garden, friendship with God is central to the purest and sweetest fellowship we can experience. Only through Jesus Christ we can attain such a fellowship with God, even in this generation over taken by gross darkness. And through the fellowship of the Son, we not only have a Savior but a Friend who sticks closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24b, John 15:14-15).
Friendship and fellowship are inextricably linked.
Even after Adam and Eve disobeyed, God’s desire for fellowship did not stop which is true today when we sin and refuse Him. Rather God made a promise to restore the relationship in Genesis 3:15.
What a beautiful mystery that God would desire to save us so He could fellowship with us every moment of our lives. As we grow in this holy fellowship, the desires of His heart ignite our own for Him. God’s all consuming love will stop at nothing to have all of us – body, mind and spirit.
In the garden, God’s friends were Adam and Eve, who in turn responded by talking about Him (not to Him as we so often do in prayer as if He can’t hear or won’t answer). They talked about His beauty, His creation in the garden, of His glory and learned of His character. And by doing so they learned whose they were in relationship to Him.
Rather than our “spiral staircase” of self-discovery that too often leads us no higher than the second landing – panting and frustrated! God reveals Himself and in His light, we see ourselves more accurately.
In the garden, there was an utter dependence on God. There was no want or need other than Him. So their conversations were free of any ill intent, desire for fleshly gain and manipulation (like making promises and vows to condition God to perform miracles) which sadly muddles our prayers.
Just as it was in the garden, friendship with God is central to the purest and sweetest fellowship we can experience. Only through Jesus Christ we can attain such a fellowship with God, even in this generation over taken by gross darkness. And through the fellowship of the Son, we not only have a Savior but a Friend who sticks closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24b, John 15:14-15).
Friendship and fellowship are inextricably linked.
Even after Adam and Eve disobeyed, God’s desire for fellowship did not stop which is true today when we sin and refuse Him. Rather God made a promise to restore the relationship in Genesis 3:15.
What a beautiful mystery that God would desire to save us so He could fellowship with us every moment of our lives. As we grow in this holy fellowship, the desires of His heart ignite our own for Him. God’s all consuming love will stop at nothing to have all of us – body, mind and spirit.
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Instruction
Those who follow instructions will avoid destruction.
It requires an attentive ear and a heart willing to do what the Lord commands. It's not the talkative that have a problem in listening, but those who may be quiet but are very distracted by other things that draw away their attention.
We are very open to hear others complement us. We like the attention and drink in every word of comfort and encouragement. There are many who are running about to hear some soft, comforting word but will not listen to a reproving word. God wouldn't say no to my desires! He knows what I've been through so He wouldn't ask me to sacrifice my blessing!
But Proverbs 15:32 says, "Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding." (NIV). How many Christians despise themselves because they refuse to be chastened, rebuke and reproved by the Lord. They don't understanding there is a precious promise awaiting for those who listen!
We must ask the Lord for willingness to accept His truth, as difficult or hard, because correction makes a way to understanding.
Understanding? The answer is in Hebrews 12:6, "For the LORD disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child." (NLT).
Those who listen and heed to the Lord's correction, gain a deeper understanding of God's love for them.
God is a wonderful Father. He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever; he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. (Psalms 103:10-11, NIV).
As sons and daughters, the best way to get to know the Father is to listen and obey His instruction.
When we walk with the Lord in the light of His Word,
What a glory He sheds on our way!
While 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.
Lyrics: John Sammis, 1887. Composer: Daniel Towner, 1887.
(http://biblestudycharts.com/SH_Trust_and_Obey.html)
It requires an attentive ear and a heart willing to do what the Lord commands. It's not the talkative that have a problem in listening, but those who may be quiet but are very distracted by other things that draw away their attention.
We are very open to hear others complement us. We like the attention and drink in every word of comfort and encouragement. There are many who are running about to hear some soft, comforting word but will not listen to a reproving word. God wouldn't say no to my desires! He knows what I've been through so He wouldn't ask me to sacrifice my blessing!
But Proverbs 15:32 says, "Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding." (NIV). How many Christians despise themselves because they refuse to be chastened, rebuke and reproved by the Lord. They don't understanding there is a precious promise awaiting for those who listen!
We must ask the Lord for willingness to accept His truth, as difficult or hard, because correction makes a way to understanding.
Understanding? The answer is in Hebrews 12:6, "For the LORD disciplines those he loves, and he punishes each one he accepts as his child." (NLT).
Those who listen and heed to the Lord's correction, gain a deeper understanding of God's love for them.
God is a wonderful Father. He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever; he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities. (Psalms 103:10-11, NIV).
As sons and daughters, the best way to get to know the Father is to listen and obey His instruction.
When we walk with the Lord in the light of His Word,
What a glory He sheds on our way!
While 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.
Lyrics: John Sammis, 1887. Composer: Daniel Towner, 1887.
(http://biblestudycharts.com/SH_Trust_and_Obey.html)
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Report Card
Most of us felt apprehension when the teacher reported our grade for the semester. There are some subjects that we do well while others we struggled until we just gave up trying.
And our grades reflect the amount of effort in studying something that we may not even use in the daily work force. When you first look at the grade, you can feel low and your confidence takes a nose dive. Sometimes it wasn't for the lack of trying but connecting the dots in a meaningful way to the life around you. You fight the voices of those who say you are a failure. You will never amount to anything. Receiving a bad grad is evidence of what you have come to believe as being true.
Many of us may forget the grades we received in our formative years, but we daily we grade ourselves by comparing what others have, so we mark ourselves down.
Several years ago, a doctor worked with me during a season of depression and anxiety when the Lord spoke to my heart, "Whose report are you going to believe?" While the doctor's report was accurate, I found myself discounting any good in my life and settling for a rather dismal, colorless existence. In other words, I didn't believe God is good and He is good to me.
"'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'" (Jeremiah 29:11, NIV)
Beloved, whose report are you going to believe?
When your children drift from home, don't grade your parenting skills (or lack of) but rather believe what God says, "So there is hope for your descendants," declares the LORD. "Your children will return to their own land." (Jeremiah 31:17, NIV).
In the morning, when your eyes look into the mirror, remember you are made in His image. You are lovely and wonderfully made by a God who is faithful and loving.
God is not going to grade you like others have done based on your performance, for what you bring or what you can accomplish but He says, "The LORD did not set his affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples. But it was because the LORD loved you and kept the oath he swore to your ancestors that he brought you out with a mighty hand and redeemed you from the land of slavery, from the power of Pharaoh king of Egypt." (Deuteronomy 7:7-8, NIV).
Will you believe His report? And stop de-grading your self?
And our grades reflect the amount of effort in studying something that we may not even use in the daily work force. When you first look at the grade, you can feel low and your confidence takes a nose dive. Sometimes it wasn't for the lack of trying but connecting the dots in a meaningful way to the life around you. You fight the voices of those who say you are a failure. You will never amount to anything. Receiving a bad grad is evidence of what you have come to believe as being true.
Many of us may forget the grades we received in our formative years, but we daily we grade ourselves by comparing what others have, so we mark ourselves down.
Several years ago, a doctor worked with me during a season of depression and anxiety when the Lord spoke to my heart, "Whose report are you going to believe?" While the doctor's report was accurate, I found myself discounting any good in my life and settling for a rather dismal, colorless existence. In other words, I didn't believe God is good and He is good to me.
"'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'" (Jeremiah 29:11, NIV)
Beloved, whose report are you going to believe?
When your children drift from home, don't grade your parenting skills (or lack of) but rather believe what God says, "So there is hope for your descendants," declares the LORD. "Your children will return to their own land." (Jeremiah 31:17, NIV).
In the morning, when your eyes look into the mirror, remember you are made in His image. You are lovely and wonderfully made by a God who is faithful and loving.
God is not going to grade you like others have done based on your performance, for what you bring or what you can accomplish but He says, "The LORD did not set his affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples. But it was because the LORD loved you and kept the oath he swore to your ancestors that he brought you out with a mighty hand and redeemed you from the land of slavery, from the power of Pharaoh king of Egypt." (Deuteronomy 7:7-8, NIV).
Will you believe His report? And stop de-grading your self?
Sunday, March 24, 2013
Don't Trust in Princes
Psalms 146:3-4 reads in the NIV:
3 Do not put your trust in princes,
in human beings, who cannot save.
4 When their spirit departs, they return to the ground;
on that very day their plans come to nothing.
Our culture is steeped in individualism but relies heavily on the opinion of others.
We want to be a self-made man or woman by leading a life as we see fit, by our own rules. The Word of God warns us not to put our trust in princes, human flesh, no matter how noble the individual might be - a person of privilege, of power or societal standing.
A prince (or princess) may be any person in whom we seek out for help in times of trouble.
The word for noble means "a generous man, willing" so the temptation to lean on our friends, family or co-workers is real because they are willing and wanting to help and can help since they have the means to do so.
But do we stop and consult God to meet our needs? Do we seek His heart to know what He determines is best for us? Are we spiritually discerning that the "princes" in our lives might lead us into bondage? They can lay claim to our lives by saying they made us strong, wealthy or opened a door for opportunities and God had nothing to do with it.
Yes, the Lord may prompt these individuals to help, but when we go to these sources before getting down on our knees, we have leaned on the arm of the flesh.
Beloved, we are instructed not to lean on our own understanding. What might seem reasonable and right may not be the way God wants to bring about His provision. Won't you trust Him today? It brings God the greatest pleasure when we abandon ourselves to His power and ability to act on our behalf.
When man or woman dies, all that are and have, dies with them but God is eternal. He can not change or lie or die. He is reliable and dependable. Let's ask God to help us lean on Him no matter what our flesh tempts us to do.
Who is this coming up from the wilderness leaning on her beloved? She under the apple tree I roused you; there your mother conceived you, there she who was in labor gave you birth. Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame. Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot sweep it away. If one were to give all the wealth of one's house for love, it would be utterly scorned. (Song of Solomon 8:5-7 NIV).
3 Do not put your trust in princes,
in human beings, who cannot save.
4 When their spirit departs, they return to the ground;
on that very day their plans come to nothing.
Our culture is steeped in individualism but relies heavily on the opinion of others.
We want to be a self-made man or woman by leading a life as we see fit, by our own rules. The Word of God warns us not to put our trust in princes, human flesh, no matter how noble the individual might be - a person of privilege, of power or societal standing.
A prince (or princess) may be any person in whom we seek out for help in times of trouble.
The word for noble means "a generous man, willing" so the temptation to lean on our friends, family or co-workers is real because they are willing and wanting to help and can help since they have the means to do so.
But do we stop and consult God to meet our needs? Do we seek His heart to know what He determines is best for us? Are we spiritually discerning that the "princes" in our lives might lead us into bondage? They can lay claim to our lives by saying they made us strong, wealthy or opened a door for opportunities and God had nothing to do with it.
Yes, the Lord may prompt these individuals to help, but when we go to these sources before getting down on our knees, we have leaned on the arm of the flesh.
Beloved, we are instructed not to lean on our own understanding. What might seem reasonable and right may not be the way God wants to bring about His provision. Won't you trust Him today? It brings God the greatest pleasure when we abandon ourselves to His power and ability to act on our behalf.
When man or woman dies, all that are and have, dies with them but God is eternal. He can not change or lie or die. He is reliable and dependable. Let's ask God to help us lean on Him no matter what our flesh tempts us to do.
Who is this coming up from the wilderness leaning on her beloved? She under the apple tree I roused you; there your mother conceived you, there she who was in labor gave you birth. Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame. Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot sweep it away. If one were to give all the wealth of one's house for love, it would be utterly scorned. (Song of Solomon 8:5-7 NIV).
Saturday, March 23, 2013
Letting Go
Today we held a yard sale in preparing our move to the East coast.
I prayed for a good turn out and soon the people started to stream into the driveway. Then an odd thing happened. They wanted things that were not for sale. One young man went into the garage and spotted a supply of soap, mouthwash and other personal items that we buy in bulk and store when needed. I shrugged my shoulders understanding we can buy these elsewhere. Another wanted the water fountain which we couldn't sell.
Another snatched up a small bird feeder which was expensive. I walked into house to find the back room filled with people. A person in the house eyed a nice chair that can transform to a short flight of steps to place plants or books. I turned around to see it was gone. It struck me how much I attached sentimental feelings to these objects, but it was time to let it go. Even at ridiculous low prices, it was time to part from most objects that were used infrequently and took up a lot of space.
As the day wore on, I slipped away to buy some lunch for those helping us. When I'd returned, the same people who had been at the yard sale were still lingering. Why are they still here? Our former belongings were in their hands, but they are still here! The Lord spoke quietly to my heart, "It's my Presence". I cross the street and headed up the driveway.
One particular young man gathered his stuff in neat pile at my feet. He'd been here for close to an hour. When our eyes met, I found myself praying for a word from the Lord. He like the others were people in need of a Savior, not another trinket. I believe he was still here because he felt something different in the atmosphere. He was not rushed, hurried or politely asked to move on.
To the young rich ruler who diligently kept the law, Jesus said, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." (Matthew 19:21 NIV). Having a yard sale was the last thing on this rich ruler's mind. Possessions meant status, power and privilege. It meant access to places that people could only dream of entering. To let it go, meant much more than releasing material possessions, it meant a change of lifestyle.
Love of God was more than a theological discussion, it was practical, painful and required sacrifice.
The word perfect in this verse means "complete, mature". When we can't let it go - whatever the Lord has asked us to release - we will miss an opportunity to grow in faith. In fact, when we are reluctant to yield what we believe is precious, sweet and deeply personal we will forfeit the treasure that God so desires for us to possess. But if our hands are full of material goods, then we can't grasp what is trying to place in our hands!
I prayed for a good turn out and soon the people started to stream into the driveway. Then an odd thing happened. They wanted things that were not for sale. One young man went into the garage and spotted a supply of soap, mouthwash and other personal items that we buy in bulk and store when needed. I shrugged my shoulders understanding we can buy these elsewhere. Another wanted the water fountain which we couldn't sell.
Another snatched up a small bird feeder which was expensive. I walked into house to find the back room filled with people. A person in the house eyed a nice chair that can transform to a short flight of steps to place plants or books. I turned around to see it was gone. It struck me how much I attached sentimental feelings to these objects, but it was time to let it go. Even at ridiculous low prices, it was time to part from most objects that were used infrequently and took up a lot of space.
As the day wore on, I slipped away to buy some lunch for those helping us. When I'd returned, the same people who had been at the yard sale were still lingering. Why are they still here? Our former belongings were in their hands, but they are still here! The Lord spoke quietly to my heart, "It's my Presence". I cross the street and headed up the driveway.
One particular young man gathered his stuff in neat pile at my feet. He'd been here for close to an hour. When our eyes met, I found myself praying for a word from the Lord. He like the others were people in need of a Savior, not another trinket. I believe he was still here because he felt something different in the atmosphere. He was not rushed, hurried or politely asked to move on.
To the young rich ruler who diligently kept the law, Jesus said, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." (Matthew 19:21 NIV). Having a yard sale was the last thing on this rich ruler's mind. Possessions meant status, power and privilege. It meant access to places that people could only dream of entering. To let it go, meant much more than releasing material possessions, it meant a change of lifestyle.
Love of God was more than a theological discussion, it was practical, painful and required sacrifice.
The word perfect in this verse means "complete, mature". When we can't let it go - whatever the Lord has asked us to release - we will miss an opportunity to grow in faith. In fact, when we are reluctant to yield what we believe is precious, sweet and deeply personal we will forfeit the treasure that God so desires for us to possess. But if our hands are full of material goods, then we can't grasp what is trying to place in our hands!
Our Eyes Are On You
King Jehoshaphat stood up in the assembly of people gathered from Judah. A vast army lead by the Moabities gathered against Jehoshaphat,including the Ammonites and the Meunites (2 Chronicles 20:1).
The Moabities worshiped the god Chemosh which involved child sacrifice. They hired Balaam to curse Israel (Deuteronomy 23:3-5). But God turned Balaam's cursing into a blessing.
You can say the enemy best represented by the Moabities is a god of sensuality. Ammonites is the enemy of violence, of an unsatisfied appetite fueled by anger and rage. The Meunites means "dwellers" and given an opportunity, this enemy will take up residence where they don't belong. These are spiritual squatters who occupy a believer's mind that has given an opening to the devil.
These enemies form a three-strand cord of sensuality all tied by a familial knot.
Recall it was Lot's older daughter who seduced her father after the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, which produced a child named Moab (Genesis 19:37). The younger gave birth to Ammon. The Meunites were a tribal people who lived on the border of Egypt. Egypt represents a worldly and seductive power. Israel was tempted to flee to her borders, especially during the years of captivity but warned not to go back (Jeremiah 42:19). And remember that when Joesph was sold into slavery and later rose to power, he had two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim from an Egyptian woman (Genesis 41:50).
We learn through Jehoshaphat's prayer some important keys when we are overwhelmed by an Enemy that threatens to destroy us through any means, be it through sensuality, rage, using our family history or trying to take up residence by displacing us.
1. God is in control, He rules over all the kingdoms of the nations, including spiritual powers (2 Chronicles 20:6)
2. Recall God's promise - Jehoshaphat tells the Lord, this is your land, your people and your inheritance (verse 7-9)
3. Jehoshaphat recalls Israel's history as sojourners in the wilderness and they did not to attack them, but now they are rising
up against Judah. When the enemy crosses that boundary line that God has set, the Lord will act on our behalf
(verse 10-11)
When you recall and believe God's promises and sovereignty even if things seem out of control, you are positioning yourself for a victory. Yes, the Enemy is inching his way closer to the boundary line God has set to keep you, but the devil can't see the trap God has laid for him!
Jehoshaphat ends his prayer by saying, "We don't know what to do, but our eyes are upon you" (verse 12). Beloved, look up and not all around you - don't try to stare down the enemy but fix your eyes on God.
What happened to the enemies?
God set an ambush and the enemy started to kill each other off! (22-23). You will not be overwhelmed or overcome, my brother and sister, but look up. Salvation is coming! And it will be your enemy who will be devoured and overwhelmed.
The Moabities worshiped the god Chemosh which involved child sacrifice. They hired Balaam to curse Israel (Deuteronomy 23:3-5). But God turned Balaam's cursing into a blessing.
You can say the enemy best represented by the Moabities is a god of sensuality. Ammonites is the enemy of violence, of an unsatisfied appetite fueled by anger and rage. The Meunites means "dwellers" and given an opportunity, this enemy will take up residence where they don't belong. These are spiritual squatters who occupy a believer's mind that has given an opening to the devil.
These enemies form a three-strand cord of sensuality all tied by a familial knot.
Recall it was Lot's older daughter who seduced her father after the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, which produced a child named Moab (Genesis 19:37). The younger gave birth to Ammon. The Meunites were a tribal people who lived on the border of Egypt. Egypt represents a worldly and seductive power. Israel was tempted to flee to her borders, especially during the years of captivity but warned not to go back (Jeremiah 42:19). And remember that when Joesph was sold into slavery and later rose to power, he had two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim from an Egyptian woman (Genesis 41:50).
We learn through Jehoshaphat's prayer some important keys when we are overwhelmed by an Enemy that threatens to destroy us through any means, be it through sensuality, rage, using our family history or trying to take up residence by displacing us.
1. God is in control, He rules over all the kingdoms of the nations, including spiritual powers (2 Chronicles 20:6)
2. Recall God's promise - Jehoshaphat tells the Lord, this is your land, your people and your inheritance (verse 7-9)
3. Jehoshaphat recalls Israel's history as sojourners in the wilderness and they did not to attack them, but now they are rising
up against Judah. When the enemy crosses that boundary line that God has set, the Lord will act on our behalf
(verse 10-11)
When you recall and believe God's promises and sovereignty even if things seem out of control, you are positioning yourself for a victory. Yes, the Enemy is inching his way closer to the boundary line God has set to keep you, but the devil can't see the trap God has laid for him!
Jehoshaphat ends his prayer by saying, "We don't know what to do, but our eyes are upon you" (verse 12). Beloved, look up and not all around you - don't try to stare down the enemy but fix your eyes on God.
What happened to the enemies?
God set an ambush and the enemy started to kill each other off! (22-23). You will not be overwhelmed or overcome, my brother and sister, but look up. Salvation is coming! And it will be your enemy who will be devoured and overwhelmed.
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Small Mountain
In Psalms 42:6, the sons of Korah write, "My soul is downcast within me;therefore I will remember you from the land of the Jordan,
the heights of Hermon—from Mount Mizar." (NIV).
Mizar or Misar (Hebrew: מצער) is a small mountain or hill near the more spectacular Mount Hermon (Wikipedia). In ancient times ship-builders got fir from the mountain [Ezek. 27:5]. It was a haunt for wild beasts [Cant. 4: 8](editthis.info/mizar/Mount_Mizar).
The writer seems long from home and downcast. He remembers the majestic Mt. Hermon but has not overlooked Mt. Mizar, the small mountain.
Small things in God's kingdom matter. A little yeast leavens an entire batch of dough. Faith like the tiny mustard seed can move mountains. A widow's mite meant more than a rich person's tithe for she gave out of her lack.
Before we can conquer big things, we must scale the small hills.
Interesting in Psalms 42:6 the writer speaks of his soul "downcast". Psalms 121:1 says, "lift up my eyes to the hills-- where does my help come from? 2 My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth."
When life is overwhelming, we don't look at the mountains that tower above us but rather to hills. For some reason, they are a reminder of our smallness, but also give us a sense of hope. How? Generally, hills are not generally ice packed with steep rocks forming a very high peak. No, most hills are rolling, gentle and can be scaled without much effort.
There is one other thing we must remind ourselves when looking at our small mountains - those small victories God has given us - they complement the grandeur of mountains around us.
Our small hills make up the entire mountain range, the landscape that speaks of God's power to transform the smallest into the largest and most beautiful scenery of our lives.
the heights of Hermon—from Mount Mizar." (NIV).
Mizar or Misar (Hebrew: מצער) is a small mountain or hill near the more spectacular Mount Hermon (Wikipedia). In ancient times ship-builders got fir from the mountain [Ezek. 27:5]. It was a haunt for wild beasts [Cant. 4: 8](editthis.info/mizar/Mount_Mizar).
The writer seems long from home and downcast. He remembers the majestic Mt. Hermon but has not overlooked Mt. Mizar, the small mountain.
Small things in God's kingdom matter. A little yeast leavens an entire batch of dough. Faith like the tiny mustard seed can move mountains. A widow's mite meant more than a rich person's tithe for she gave out of her lack.
Before we can conquer big things, we must scale the small hills.
Interesting in Psalms 42:6 the writer speaks of his soul "downcast". Psalms 121:1 says, "lift up my eyes to the hills-- where does my help come from? 2 My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth."
When life is overwhelming, we don't look at the mountains that tower above us but rather to hills. For some reason, they are a reminder of our smallness, but also give us a sense of hope. How? Generally, hills are not generally ice packed with steep rocks forming a very high peak. No, most hills are rolling, gentle and can be scaled without much effort.
There is one other thing we must remind ourselves when looking at our small mountains - those small victories God has given us - they complement the grandeur of mountains around us.
Our small hills make up the entire mountain range, the landscape that speaks of God's power to transform the smallest into the largest and most beautiful scenery of our lives.
When Your Scars Speak Of God's Mercy
As Jesus was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon-possessed begged to go with him. Jesus did not let him, but said, "Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you. (Mark 5:19 NIV).
After so many feverish nights of being tormented, the demonized man was finally at peace. No more voices whispering dark, perverse thoughts. Thoughts to kill himself. Taunting him to destroy his flesh by cutting and slashing with anything in reach.
No one saw him for the man he had been before the darkness flooded his mind and stole his peace. He was to be avoided at all cost. He was an object of scorn, a testimony of a disgraceful man who lost control only to be controlled by the devil!
He let out a low, uneasy laugh. If he had encounter someone like himself, he'd do the same! How many times did he fight the violent voices not to hurt someone so he'd picked up rocks to purge himself from those shameful and fearful impulses.
One day he awoke to find a crowd of angry men surrounding him. They were holding heavy chains in their hands. He struggled as they tighten the chains around his arms and legs. Above all the noise and voices, he heard someone call him a wild boar. Some smelly, foul animal that refused to be controlled. Then in a flash of anger and some unexplained evil force deep within his soul, he tossed away the chains like a feather. He scurried up the rocky hill to prevent himself from lunging at them. The men retreated, racing back to the village.
Darkness fell as he sat on the hill over looking the sea of Galilee.
Suddenly a storm stirred and struck the sea with untold fury. He strained to see boats being tossed like helpless leaves. He was thankful for the rain that washed away the tears streaming down his face. He shivered and felt helplessly alone. His lips moved as if to speak. He felt a cry rising from the pit of his stomach. This time it was a different voice, his own. He shook his fist to the heavens. If there is a God, help me!
His cry grew to a feverish pitch when he noticed the storm halted and the sea was as smooth as glass. His head tilted to one side in confusion.
The voices in his head were growing restless like hornets stirred in their nest. It was as if a different storm was encroaching upon them.
"Please let me go with you," he begged the God who heard his cry only the night before and the nights long ago when he was tormented. Earlier he had watched Jesus come out of the boat when the evil presence inside him become violent.
Now, he was clothed in a peace so indescribably rich!
Jesus eyes grew bright with hope as if seeing something in the near future, as he said, "No, I want you to go back, go back home and tell them of the wonderful things God has done for you." He touched the man's face for a moment before raising him to his feet. He watched the Lord's eyes trace his arms where there remained deep, etched scars.
The man shifted his eyes past the Lord to where hundreds of pigs had frantically raced down the hill, shrilling and screaming in hellish torment, taking with them all his demons into the heart of the sea. The sea Jesus calmed last night on His way to deliver him. And the raging sea in his mind. Peace be still!
Oh, such wonderful words were his to possess and to be possessed by the Prince of Peace!
Then he looked down at his arms and hands. The scars were visible, deeply etched, twisted and gruesome but it told a story of man who was delivered by tormenting voices and evil spirits. It was the one thing that remained, a witness for himself and others to never forget God's mercy.
After so many feverish nights of being tormented, the demonized man was finally at peace. No more voices whispering dark, perverse thoughts. Thoughts to kill himself. Taunting him to destroy his flesh by cutting and slashing with anything in reach.
No one saw him for the man he had been before the darkness flooded his mind and stole his peace. He was to be avoided at all cost. He was an object of scorn, a testimony of a disgraceful man who lost control only to be controlled by the devil!
He let out a low, uneasy laugh. If he had encounter someone like himself, he'd do the same! How many times did he fight the violent voices not to hurt someone so he'd picked up rocks to purge himself from those shameful and fearful impulses.
One day he awoke to find a crowd of angry men surrounding him. They were holding heavy chains in their hands. He struggled as they tighten the chains around his arms and legs. Above all the noise and voices, he heard someone call him a wild boar. Some smelly, foul animal that refused to be controlled. Then in a flash of anger and some unexplained evil force deep within his soul, he tossed away the chains like a feather. He scurried up the rocky hill to prevent himself from lunging at them. The men retreated, racing back to the village.
Darkness fell as he sat on the hill over looking the sea of Galilee.
Suddenly a storm stirred and struck the sea with untold fury. He strained to see boats being tossed like helpless leaves. He was thankful for the rain that washed away the tears streaming down his face. He shivered and felt helplessly alone. His lips moved as if to speak. He felt a cry rising from the pit of his stomach. This time it was a different voice, his own. He shook his fist to the heavens. If there is a God, help me!
His cry grew to a feverish pitch when he noticed the storm halted and the sea was as smooth as glass. His head tilted to one side in confusion.
The voices in his head were growing restless like hornets stirred in their nest. It was as if a different storm was encroaching upon them.
"Please let me go with you," he begged the God who heard his cry only the night before and the nights long ago when he was tormented. Earlier he had watched Jesus come out of the boat when the evil presence inside him become violent.
Now, he was clothed in a peace so indescribably rich!
Jesus eyes grew bright with hope as if seeing something in the near future, as he said, "No, I want you to go back, go back home and tell them of the wonderful things God has done for you." He touched the man's face for a moment before raising him to his feet. He watched the Lord's eyes trace his arms where there remained deep, etched scars.
The man shifted his eyes past the Lord to where hundreds of pigs had frantically raced down the hill, shrilling and screaming in hellish torment, taking with them all his demons into the heart of the sea. The sea Jesus calmed last night on His way to deliver him. And the raging sea in his mind. Peace be still!
Oh, such wonderful words were his to possess and to be possessed by the Prince of Peace!
Then he looked down at his arms and hands. The scars were visible, deeply etched, twisted and gruesome but it told a story of man who was delivered by tormenting voices and evil spirits. It was the one thing that remained, a witness for himself and others to never forget God's mercy.
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
True Prayer
Prayer is the pathway to the throne. It’s very life line to God. The primary opposition to pray apart from our flesh is Satan who will stop at nothing to silence us from speaking and hearing from God.
The enemy will use any means to distract and derail us so we don't pray true meaningful prayers. Do you know all of hell trembles when you call out to Him with an honest and sincere heart? God visit me in this difficult hour! God go to the depths of my heart and examine me! See if there is any controversy in my heart and change me from the inside out! (Psalms 26:2). No part dark! Get the mixture and unbelief out of my heart!
First, let’s look at what true prayer is not.
Prayer is not a constant stream of rambling words. Jesus warns us against this type of prayer in Matthew 6:7. In the original it means to blubber nonsensical repetitions; to chatter (be "long-winded"), using empty (vain) words. In other words, true prayer is not all about our needs, wants and desires. Often these prayers are manipulative and selfish rather than seeking first His kingdom and His interests.
Prayer is not making promises and vows. Proverbs 20:25 says in the New Living Translation “Don't trap yourself by making a rash promise to God and only later counting the cost.” For those who pray like this fall into a cycle of sin and confession. Over and over again we say we are sorry and that we’ll do better. Only we become frustrated at the lack of progress and wonder why God is not hearing us.
Prayer is not punching in the clock. There is an attitude that prayer is some stifling duty which requires my time and attention. No, beloved, we must pray for those who are dying and perishing. It’s a privilege and honor to pray! Lamentations 2:19 says, “Arise, cry out in the night: in the beginning of the watches pour out thine heart like water before the face of the Lord: lift up thy hands toward him for the life of thy young children that faint for hunger in the top of every street.” (KJV)
Prayer only offered in times of crisis or failure. There’s a common cycle among believers where we tend to pray more in times of difficulty and crisis and then go completely silent when all is well only to resume praying when confronted by another crisis. We move from glory to glory not crisis to crisis! Beloved, this is not the hour to have prayer be sparse or inconsistent. Isaiah warns, “Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast.” (Isaiah 26:20, KJV).
So what is true prayer?
True prayer is ministering to the Lord by rehearsing His Word back to Him in a meaningful dialogue. We all pray differently because of life experiences, our different personality types and manner in which we pray but it doesn't make it any less true ministry to Lord. True prayer is a call and response to the Spirit who intercedes on our behalf (Romans 8:26).
In the night, LORD, I remember your name, that I may keep your law. (Psalms 119:55, NIV).
The enemy will use any means to distract and derail us so we don't pray true meaningful prayers. Do you know all of hell trembles when you call out to Him with an honest and sincere heart? God visit me in this difficult hour! God go to the depths of my heart and examine me! See if there is any controversy in my heart and change me from the inside out! (Psalms 26:2). No part dark! Get the mixture and unbelief out of my heart!
First, let’s look at what true prayer is not.
Prayer is not a constant stream of rambling words. Jesus warns us against this type of prayer in Matthew 6:7. In the original it means to blubber nonsensical repetitions; to chatter (be "long-winded"), using empty (vain) words. In other words, true prayer is not all about our needs, wants and desires. Often these prayers are manipulative and selfish rather than seeking first His kingdom and His interests.
Prayer is not making promises and vows. Proverbs 20:25 says in the New Living Translation “Don't trap yourself by making a rash promise to God and only later counting the cost.” For those who pray like this fall into a cycle of sin and confession. Over and over again we say we are sorry and that we’ll do better. Only we become frustrated at the lack of progress and wonder why God is not hearing us.
Prayer is not punching in the clock. There is an attitude that prayer is some stifling duty which requires my time and attention. No, beloved, we must pray for those who are dying and perishing. It’s a privilege and honor to pray! Lamentations 2:19 says, “Arise, cry out in the night: in the beginning of the watches pour out thine heart like water before the face of the Lord: lift up thy hands toward him for the life of thy young children that faint for hunger in the top of every street.” (KJV)
Prayer only offered in times of crisis or failure. There’s a common cycle among believers where we tend to pray more in times of difficulty and crisis and then go completely silent when all is well only to resume praying when confronted by another crisis. We move from glory to glory not crisis to crisis! Beloved, this is not the hour to have prayer be sparse or inconsistent. Isaiah warns, “Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast.” (Isaiah 26:20, KJV).
So what is true prayer?
True prayer is ministering to the Lord by rehearsing His Word back to Him in a meaningful dialogue. We all pray differently because of life experiences, our different personality types and manner in which we pray but it doesn't make it any less true ministry to Lord. True prayer is a call and response to the Spirit who intercedes on our behalf (Romans 8:26).
In the night, LORD, I remember your name, that I may keep your law. (Psalms 119:55, NIV).
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
The Bread of Communion
Communion is always within the context of community from the Passover to the Last Supper.
During the Passover, Christ broke bread and told His disciples to take and eat. This represented His body broken for us (Matthew 26:26) and Jesus is called the Bread of Life (John 6:35). By breaking and distributing the bread to eat, the Lord was in essence giving away His life, as it were in pieces, to be consumed by his disciples who in turn become bread for others.
We see this breaking, distributing and gathering of bread illustrated in the feeding of the 5,000 when Jesus order the disciples to gather every fragment so nothing will be lost (John 6:12). Not one crumb or fragment of Christ’s life is ever wasted, but always multiplies.
Compared to Gospel accounts of Mark 14:22 and Matthew 26:26, Luke adds the words, “in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19). Paul’s letter to the Corinthian church also includes this call to remember (I Corinthian 11:23-24).
When you hold the bread in your hand during communion, what are you remembering about the body of Christ? And when you eat the bread do you reflect more on your own brokenness/restoration or more on your redeemed life purchased by a broken Redeemer?
Who and what we remember matters when we take communion. For it will help us not to forget our purpose in partaking of the bread both as an individual and a community of believers.
After the resurrection, Jesus walked along the Sea of Galilee to find the disciples had returned to fishing. After all the events that transpired, He finds them at the very placed He called them three years before!
What is interesting is that Jesus makes them breakfast but notice the description in John 21:9. There is fish broiling on hot coals and bread.
It could be as simple as having full breakfast but I believe it was to serve as a reminder for one particular disciple. To the other disciples Jesus might say, “Remember I’m the Bread of Life! Remember how I feed the multitudes with only five loaves and fishes! Remember that man shall not live by bread alone but through every word that proceeds from the mouth of God!”
But in this same passage, Jesus turns to Peter and asked him, “Do you love me more than these?” There is speculation to what is meant by “more than these” but undoubtedly Peter understand the question. Jesus might have pointed at the bread and fish (provision) or Peter’s boat (occupation) or toward the disciples (friends and family). Jesus then tells Peter to feed His sheep.
This is the same disciple who betrayed Him. Peter boasted that he would never deny Christ (Matthew 26:35). Peter is a very different man when Jesus meets him. We can say he is very much a broken man (fragmented) from the arrogance and boasting that eventually lead him to deny Christ.
Imagine Jesus holding a piece of bread in hand as He reminded Peter the words in Luke 22:31-32. Satan desired to shift you like wheat but I prayed for you, Peter. Now you can go strengthen your brothers and feed my sheep! The Enemy desired to destroy Peter much like he did to Judas. But this time it worked in Peter’s favor. For you see, the first step in process of sifting wheat is to loosen the chaff from the edible grain, which is called threshing. Whatever remained in Peter’s life after the threshing was not chaff of arrogance and boasting, but edible grain to become bread to feed others!
During the Passover, Christ broke bread and told His disciples to take and eat. This represented His body broken for us (Matthew 26:26) and Jesus is called the Bread of Life (John 6:35). By breaking and distributing the bread to eat, the Lord was in essence giving away His life, as it were in pieces, to be consumed by his disciples who in turn become bread for others.
We see this breaking, distributing and gathering of bread illustrated in the feeding of the 5,000 when Jesus order the disciples to gather every fragment so nothing will be lost (John 6:12). Not one crumb or fragment of Christ’s life is ever wasted, but always multiplies.
Compared to Gospel accounts of Mark 14:22 and Matthew 26:26, Luke adds the words, “in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19). Paul’s letter to the Corinthian church also includes this call to remember (I Corinthian 11:23-24).
When you hold the bread in your hand during communion, what are you remembering about the body of Christ? And when you eat the bread do you reflect more on your own brokenness/restoration or more on your redeemed life purchased by a broken Redeemer?
Who and what we remember matters when we take communion. For it will help us not to forget our purpose in partaking of the bread both as an individual and a community of believers.
After the resurrection, Jesus walked along the Sea of Galilee to find the disciples had returned to fishing. After all the events that transpired, He finds them at the very placed He called them three years before!
What is interesting is that Jesus makes them breakfast but notice the description in John 21:9. There is fish broiling on hot coals and bread.
It could be as simple as having full breakfast but I believe it was to serve as a reminder for one particular disciple. To the other disciples Jesus might say, “Remember I’m the Bread of Life! Remember how I feed the multitudes with only five loaves and fishes! Remember that man shall not live by bread alone but through every word that proceeds from the mouth of God!”
But in this same passage, Jesus turns to Peter and asked him, “Do you love me more than these?” There is speculation to what is meant by “more than these” but undoubtedly Peter understand the question. Jesus might have pointed at the bread and fish (provision) or Peter’s boat (occupation) or toward the disciples (friends and family). Jesus then tells Peter to feed His sheep.
This is the same disciple who betrayed Him. Peter boasted that he would never deny Christ (Matthew 26:35). Peter is a very different man when Jesus meets him. We can say he is very much a broken man (fragmented) from the arrogance and boasting that eventually lead him to deny Christ.
Imagine Jesus holding a piece of bread in hand as He reminded Peter the words in Luke 22:31-32. Satan desired to shift you like wheat but I prayed for you, Peter. Now you can go strengthen your brothers and feed my sheep! The Enemy desired to destroy Peter much like he did to Judas. But this time it worked in Peter’s favor. For you see, the first step in process of sifting wheat is to loosen the chaff from the edible grain, which is called threshing. Whatever remained in Peter’s life after the threshing was not chaff of arrogance and boasting, but edible grain to become bread to feed others!
Monday, March 18, 2013
Acknowledge Me
True faithfulness comes from a deep abiding love for Jesus understanding that He first loved me and you.
Recall in 1 Corinthians 13:2 Paul writes, “And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity [love], I am nothing.”
Love is the foundation for trust and fidelity in our relationship in Christ. Obedience is not so difficult or laborious but an expression of our love to Him who is faithful.
We live in society were commitment is conditional. What do you bring to the table? What’s in it for me? How will this further my career? Broken promises to remain faithful are evident by divorces, separations and abandonment where couples have grown tired of each other or refuse to work through their differences.
People move from job to job or in constant motion whenever things become too difficult or when they are not the center of attention and feel they deserve better pay or promotion or chasing after some fantasy. There’s a shifting and rootlessness that keeps our entire society from being ground and settled. And you can see it in church attendance which drops on Sunday mornings only to spike whenever a special speaker visits or some entertaining concert is playing.
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 in our obedience to God. In other words, simply doing what God asked does not mean necessarily you are faithful. Faithfulness is a heart issue that only God can go to the depths of our heart to remedy. Like the prodigal we would find ourselves soon wondering far from home.
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 and in times 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 deliverance performed by His strength and think of the bright future He has in store for those who love Him. When we fail to acknowledge God and turn our focus to another we dismiss God. Acknowledging the Lord breaks the power of idolatry which always leads to unfaithfulness. For when we turn our focus away from God to acknowledge another means of relief, salvation, help, comfort etc. we will forfeit the mercy that could have been ours(Jonah 2:8).
Recall in 1 Corinthians 13:2 Paul writes, “And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity [love], I am nothing.”
Love is the foundation for trust and fidelity in our relationship in Christ. Obedience is not so difficult or laborious but an expression of our love to Him who is faithful.
We live in society were commitment is conditional. What do you bring to the table? What’s in it for me? How will this further my career? Broken promises to remain faithful are evident by divorces, separations and abandonment where couples have grown tired of each other or refuse to work through their differences.
People move from job to job or in constant motion whenever things become too difficult or when they are not the center of attention and feel they deserve better pay or promotion or chasing after some fantasy. There’s a shifting and rootlessness that keeps our entire society from being ground and settled. And you can see it in church attendance which drops on Sunday mornings only to spike whenever a special speaker visits or some entertaining concert is playing.
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 in our obedience to God. In other words, simply doing what God asked does not mean necessarily you are faithful. Faithfulness is a heart issue that only God can go to the depths of our heart to remedy. Like the prodigal we would find ourselves soon wondering far from home.
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 and in times 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 deliverance performed by His strength and think of the bright future He has in store for those who love Him. When we fail to acknowledge God and turn our focus to another we dismiss God. Acknowledging the Lord breaks the power of idolatry which always leads to unfaithfulness. For when we turn our focus away from God to acknowledge another means of relief, salvation, help, comfort etc. we will forfeit the mercy that could have been ours(Jonah 2:8).
Sunday, March 17, 2013
Defiling Your Idols
The pages of the bible fluttered as I opened it. The open book rested on my lap when my eyes went to a familiar passage in Isaiah 30:21. It reads in the NIV version, "Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it."
I mediated on this verse for a couple of minutes when my eyes went to the next verse.
"Then you will desecrate your idols overlaid with silver and your images covered with gold; you will throw them away like a menstrual cloth and say to them, "Away with you!"
Suddenly the Holy Spirit open my understanding to a profound truth. "Then you will..." Do what? Defile the images you covered in a thin veneer of silver and gold. The word defiled in the original means "to be regarded as unclean, defiled, to pollute".
At the sound of God's voice, a voice that penetrates to the very heart can cause us to turn and defile the idols in our lives. Idols we covered over in a thin veneer of fool's gold of excuses, rationalizations, and justifications. Idols we have emotionally, spiritually and perhaps even physically bowed down in worship. Suddenly at the voice of God, we awake from a deceptive stupor to something that is really destroying us from the inside out.
I'm reminded of King Josiah who burned the bones of priests on the very altar they had sacrificed to pagan gods (2 Kings 23:16). Here these priests not only sinned by breaking God's commandments, but influenced others to join them. By spreading the bones on the altar, Josiah defiled it so anyone who came near would be considered ceremonially unclean. Numbers 19:11 says, "Whoever touches a human corpse will be unclean for seven days. (NIV). Likewise, Jesus says in Matthew 23:27 regarding the religious rulers, "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean." (NIV).
Nothing defiles a heart like religion. Religion is outside a true relationship of the presence and person of Christ. By choosing to go past rituals,traditions and rules and enter into a deeper, more intimate relationship with Christ means openly exposing the dry bones of those who practice religion. These individuals had all but spiritually died at the altar of their own self-made god! Remember God's call to Ezekiel to speak to the dry bones, to prophecy and life would enter into the slain (Ezekiel 37:4-5).
Lastly, Isaiah 30:22 say you will "...throw them away like a menstrual cloth and say to them, "Away with you!". The one idol that needs to be thrown out of our lives is self-righteousness. Isaiah 64:6 calls it "filthy rags". The Lord reminded me of the woman who was bleeding for several years until she crawled her way through the crowd to touch the hem of the Lord's garment. She was considered unclean by the law.
The woman had seen many physicians but it only made her worse. Mark 5:26 says, "She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse.' (NIV).
Beloved, many of us are internally bleeding from giving our best years, our strength and hearts to something covered over in gold leaf, but it's decaying and rotting inside. It's time to defile the idolatry in our lives but hearing His voice of truth to lead us away from false worship. Bring it out in the open in confession and repentance the sin you have covered over with silver and gold. And toss it away from you so you can stop the bleeding!
I mediated on this verse for a couple of minutes when my eyes went to the next verse.
"Then you will desecrate your idols overlaid with silver and your images covered with gold; you will throw them away like a menstrual cloth and say to them, "Away with you!"
Suddenly the Holy Spirit open my understanding to a profound truth. "Then you will..." Do what? Defile the images you covered in a thin veneer of silver and gold. The word defiled in the original means "to be regarded as unclean, defiled, to pollute".
At the sound of God's voice, a voice that penetrates to the very heart can cause us to turn and defile the idols in our lives. Idols we covered over in a thin veneer of fool's gold of excuses, rationalizations, and justifications. Idols we have emotionally, spiritually and perhaps even physically bowed down in worship. Suddenly at the voice of God, we awake from a deceptive stupor to something that is really destroying us from the inside out.
I'm reminded of King Josiah who burned the bones of priests on the very altar they had sacrificed to pagan gods (2 Kings 23:16). Here these priests not only sinned by breaking God's commandments, but influenced others to join them. By spreading the bones on the altar, Josiah defiled it so anyone who came near would be considered ceremonially unclean. Numbers 19:11 says, "Whoever touches a human corpse will be unclean for seven days. (NIV). Likewise, Jesus says in Matthew 23:27 regarding the religious rulers, "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean." (NIV).
Nothing defiles a heart like religion. Religion is outside a true relationship of the presence and person of Christ. By choosing to go past rituals,traditions and rules and enter into a deeper, more intimate relationship with Christ means openly exposing the dry bones of those who practice religion. These individuals had all but spiritually died at the altar of their own self-made god! Remember God's call to Ezekiel to speak to the dry bones, to prophecy and life would enter into the slain (Ezekiel 37:4-5).
Lastly, Isaiah 30:22 say you will "...throw them away like a menstrual cloth and say to them, "Away with you!". The one idol that needs to be thrown out of our lives is self-righteousness. Isaiah 64:6 calls it "filthy rags". The Lord reminded me of the woman who was bleeding for several years until she crawled her way through the crowd to touch the hem of the Lord's garment. She was considered unclean by the law.
The woman had seen many physicians but it only made her worse. Mark 5:26 says, "She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse.' (NIV).
Beloved, many of us are internally bleeding from giving our best years, our strength and hearts to something covered over in gold leaf, but it's decaying and rotting inside. It's time to defile the idolatry in our lives but hearing His voice of truth to lead us away from false worship. Bring it out in the open in confession and repentance the sin you have covered over with silver and gold. And toss it away from you so you can stop the bleeding!
Saturday, March 16, 2013
An Abram Moment
Nearly 5 months ago, I heard the Lord whisper, "Come away with me."
He stretches out His mighty hand, extending it to mine. With anticipation, I grasp His hand, feeling the tightness of His fingers wrap around my hand. He knows the many times I've pulled back or wanted to run, but the strong grasp anchored me to His side.
We start to walk across the room which at one time seemed spacious and full of potential, now it seem overcrowded. I realize the broad place the Lord had once lead me years before now was completely furnished with all He wanted me to experience. Sadly, I can also recall moments of failures, sins and times I had neglected Him. There was no time to reflect as His pace didn't slow down.
We pass through an open door then down a narrow hallway, a transitional space, to connect to another room. It was nearly 14 years since I had experience such a change in my life where the familiar was left behind to reach for something unknown, uncertain and almost improbable.
Here in hall the bland, white walls seem to close in where there is no windows. Vision is limited to feeling your way down the corridor. My breathing became shallow with anxious gasps. Where are we going Lord? Why are we leaving the space in my life that has become comforting and perhaps, too predictable?
Behind me the door in the room we had left only seconds ago slowly closed, sealing us from reentering.
At the end of the hall I see threads of sunlight seeping under one of the doors. My eyes shift toward Him and then to the massive door, but I dare not release His hand to go ahead or say a word. I watch as His hand reached for the door handle and slowly He turned it. Then with a mighty force, the door groaned and began to swing open. My mouth slackened in a wide O expression and my eyes enlarged with such delight. For behind the open door was...
This is what I call an Abram moment, a time when the Lord says, "It's time to go" In Genesis 12:1 it says, "The LORD had said to Abram, "Go from your country, your people and your father's household to the land I will show you." (NIV).
God will interrupt our lives with a whisper, gentle and beckoning. For those who hear and obey, their lives are forever changed. Abram's first steps outside the door of his house meant walking away from one life to enter into another life of eternal blessings. The journey with Christ requires movements and moments that only lead us heavenward.
...and there behind the door was a city on the East Coast..."Go on, my son, I have a something waiting for you in this place." And like Joshua, God promised His presence would go before him to take possession of the Promised Land (Joshua 31:7-8).
You can stay for comfort sake but only die miserably or you can go where He leads and truly live a fuller life, even if change is uncomfortable!
He stretches out His mighty hand, extending it to mine. With anticipation, I grasp His hand, feeling the tightness of His fingers wrap around my hand. He knows the many times I've pulled back or wanted to run, but the strong grasp anchored me to His side.
We start to walk across the room which at one time seemed spacious and full of potential, now it seem overcrowded. I realize the broad place the Lord had once lead me years before now was completely furnished with all He wanted me to experience. Sadly, I can also recall moments of failures, sins and times I had neglected Him. There was no time to reflect as His pace didn't slow down.
We pass through an open door then down a narrow hallway, a transitional space, to connect to another room. It was nearly 14 years since I had experience such a change in my life where the familiar was left behind to reach for something unknown, uncertain and almost improbable.
Here in hall the bland, white walls seem to close in where there is no windows. Vision is limited to feeling your way down the corridor. My breathing became shallow with anxious gasps. Where are we going Lord? Why are we leaving the space in my life that has become comforting and perhaps, too predictable?
Behind me the door in the room we had left only seconds ago slowly closed, sealing us from reentering.
At the end of the hall I see threads of sunlight seeping under one of the doors. My eyes shift toward Him and then to the massive door, but I dare not release His hand to go ahead or say a word. I watch as His hand reached for the door handle and slowly He turned it. Then with a mighty force, the door groaned and began to swing open. My mouth slackened in a wide O expression and my eyes enlarged with such delight. For behind the open door was...
This is what I call an Abram moment, a time when the Lord says, "It's time to go" In Genesis 12:1 it says, "The LORD had said to Abram, "Go from your country, your people and your father's household to the land I will show you." (NIV).
God will interrupt our lives with a whisper, gentle and beckoning. For those who hear and obey, their lives are forever changed. Abram's first steps outside the door of his house meant walking away from one life to enter into another life of eternal blessings. The journey with Christ requires movements and moments that only lead us heavenward.
...and there behind the door was a city on the East Coast..."Go on, my son, I have a something waiting for you in this place." And like Joshua, God promised His presence would go before him to take possession of the Promised Land (Joshua 31:7-8).
You can stay for comfort sake but only die miserably or you can go where He leads and truly live a fuller life, even if change is uncomfortable!
Thursday, March 14, 2013
What Can Man Do To Me?
Like many of my readers, most of my life has been spent with the fear of man and woman - desiring approval, wanting acceptance, afraid to offend and fearful of conflict.
I lost my voice unable to put into words what really was going on inside my heart. If I didn't like something, I said nothing. If I needed something, I was afraid to ask, fearful of being denied or viewed as weak. Not that everyone needed to know how I felt but there was no true self in my relationships. I'd become what I thought the other person wanted to see or hear from me. The labor and expense brought no return, but often strained relationships to a breaking point. All the while, the person didn't know that underneath all my attention, was a fear they would hurt me, walk away or reject me.
But unlike human relationships, in Christ, we are made complete. We can't add or take away from what He has done for us. Nothing can separate us from the love of God. No one can pluck or snatch us out of His hand. He won't despise our weakness and reject us because He has given up on us. Its a relationship we can be completely at rest without the driving fear of approval or rejection.
Yet so few of us come into a place of freedom and confidence in the Lord. Why? Sadly, the fear of man leaves an impress on our minds that shapes our relationship with the Lord.
David said in Psalms 56:10-11, "In God, whose word I praise, in the LORD, whose word I praise--in God I trust and am not afraid. What can man do to me? (NIV).
The same man who sinned against God by taking a census of the people. A possible indication that King David want to boast in the numbers of those who made up a nation to which he governed and shepherd. In others, numbers meant an approval rating of sorts. But when God reproved him through the prophet, David replies, "I am in deep distress. Let me fall into the hands of the LORD, for his mercy is very great; but do not let me fall into human hands." (I Chronicles 21:13 NIV).
Beloved, the fear of man is unlike the fear of God. With God is mercy but when we live our lives with the fear of man, we have no grace when we fall.
I lost my voice unable to put into words what really was going on inside my heart. If I didn't like something, I said nothing. If I needed something, I was afraid to ask, fearful of being denied or viewed as weak. Not that everyone needed to know how I felt but there was no true self in my relationships. I'd become what I thought the other person wanted to see or hear from me. The labor and expense brought no return, but often strained relationships to a breaking point. All the while, the person didn't know that underneath all my attention, was a fear they would hurt me, walk away or reject me.
But unlike human relationships, in Christ, we are made complete. We can't add or take away from what He has done for us. Nothing can separate us from the love of God. No one can pluck or snatch us out of His hand. He won't despise our weakness and reject us because He has given up on us. Its a relationship we can be completely at rest without the driving fear of approval or rejection.
Yet so few of us come into a place of freedom and confidence in the Lord. Why? Sadly, the fear of man leaves an impress on our minds that shapes our relationship with the Lord.
David said in Psalms 56:10-11, "In God, whose word I praise, in the LORD, whose word I praise--in God I trust and am not afraid. What can man do to me? (NIV).
The same man who sinned against God by taking a census of the people. A possible indication that King David want to boast in the numbers of those who made up a nation to which he governed and shepherd. In others, numbers meant an approval rating of sorts. But when God reproved him through the prophet, David replies, "I am in deep distress. Let me fall into the hands of the LORD, for his mercy is very great; but do not let me fall into human hands." (I Chronicles 21:13 NIV).
Beloved, the fear of man is unlike the fear of God. With God is mercy but when we live our lives with the fear of man, we have no grace when we fall.
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
The Sin Of Neglect
Paul writes in Ephesians 6:16, "Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked." (KJV). The Greek word for shield is thyreós which means properly, a gate or door (or "door-shaped"); used of the large, oblong ancient Roman shield (which looked like a full door), large enough to provide full protection from attack (Bible Suite by Biblos).
Why the shield of faith? Simply because our faith in Christ is what the devil wants to destroy. Our faith is constantly under attack but the shield of faith its the only offensive weapon to preserve us from the fiery darts of the wicked one. Faith is more than a form of protection, its our very character forged by a faithful God! David says in Psalms 28: 7, "The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him." (NIV).
And what are these flaming darts? These darts are Satanic lies that want to attach themselves by penetrating our minds, hearts and bodies. The heat of these darts sear the lie until we are unable to resist. How many believers are strewn across the battle field of life because they did not lift up the shield of faith!
Beloved, the enemy of our soul is not necessarily the devil on the battle field but the enemy of neglect.
When we let our hands relax, the shield is lowered giving the enemy an opportunity to fire a volley of burning darts right into the opening. We are not only ones who suffer but the body of Christ when we don't cover each other. The Greeks formed a phalanx, a formation of soldiers encased by shields on their sides and those who were in the center, lifted up the shields above their heads. Boldly they advanced toward the enemy while rocks, flaming darts and arrows were repelled by their shields!
Remember the original word meant "door-shaped". When we open a door for the enemy through our eye-gate, mouth-gate, or ear-gate we give him an opportunity to throw a burning lie into our spirits. Listen beloved, the enemy will try to wear you down from holding up the shield of faith by relaxing your grip in a small, almost unnoticeable area of obedience. Excuses are made and short cuts are taken and soon you are neglecting to do what you know is right in the eyes of the Lord.
God is our strength, dear brothers and sisters. His hand will give us strength to take up the shield of faith so we can quench every lie the enemy hurls at us, at our churches and homes!
When you have little strength left God will bring brothers and sisters who will help you lift up the shield of faith.
Recall Exodus 17:11-12, "As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites were winning. When Moses' hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up--one on one side, one on the other--so that his hands remained steady till sunset.(NIV)
Why the shield of faith? Simply because our faith in Christ is what the devil wants to destroy. Our faith is constantly under attack but the shield of faith its the only offensive weapon to preserve us from the fiery darts of the wicked one. Faith is more than a form of protection, its our very character forged by a faithful God! David says in Psalms 28: 7, "The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him." (NIV).
And what are these flaming darts? These darts are Satanic lies that want to attach themselves by penetrating our minds, hearts and bodies. The heat of these darts sear the lie until we are unable to resist. How many believers are strewn across the battle field of life because they did not lift up the shield of faith!
Beloved, the enemy of our soul is not necessarily the devil on the battle field but the enemy of neglect.
When we let our hands relax, the shield is lowered giving the enemy an opportunity to fire a volley of burning darts right into the opening. We are not only ones who suffer but the body of Christ when we don't cover each other. The Greeks formed a phalanx, a formation of soldiers encased by shields on their sides and those who were in the center, lifted up the shields above their heads. Boldly they advanced toward the enemy while rocks, flaming darts and arrows were repelled by their shields!
Remember the original word meant "door-shaped". When we open a door for the enemy through our eye-gate, mouth-gate, or ear-gate we give him an opportunity to throw a burning lie into our spirits. Listen beloved, the enemy will try to wear you down from holding up the shield of faith by relaxing your grip in a small, almost unnoticeable area of obedience. Excuses are made and short cuts are taken and soon you are neglecting to do what you know is right in the eyes of the Lord.
God is our strength, dear brothers and sisters. His hand will give us strength to take up the shield of faith so we can quench every lie the enemy hurls at us, at our churches and homes!
When you have little strength left God will bring brothers and sisters who will help you lift up the shield of faith.
Recall Exodus 17:11-12, "As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites were winning. When Moses' hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up--one on one side, one on the other--so that his hands remained steady till sunset.(NIV)
Faith That Imagines
When we daily spend time reading and mediating on God's Word our minds will be changed. We will think more clearly and discern more accurately spiritual things. Most of all, we can imagine or picture God working on your behalf regardless to our present circumstances. Beloved, God wants us to move us away from terminal thinking to eternal thinking.
Remember Jesus comforted Lazarus sisters’ that this sickness did not lead to death (John 11:4). Yes, Lazarus physically died, but he was not spiritual dead as those who are outside of Christ. Jesus viewed Lazarus as taking a nap (John 11:11).
How many dreams, hopes and plans are just taking a rest while waiting for the Lord to breath life into them? But to us, it's over, too far gone and deeply buried under layers of unbelief and doubt. Why resurrect a broken relationship? Why stir to life a dream of being a minister? Why even try to imagine a life that is full of hope and peace when I made so many mistakes? Besides, some might say, leave the past alone, it's best to just move on!
In Mark 5:39 Jesus went to raise a young girl from the dead. Those weeping in the house ridiculed him. How many things buried in our heart appear quite dead? Even Sarah, Abraham's wife, laughed when she was told she'd have a son at her age!
And then there is a Thomas who was grounded in the factual, reality. He had to touch in order to believe. Sadly, there are some who are just black and white thinkers – there is no color in their imagination. What can be touched, handled, seen or tasted is considered truth. They are concrete believers, stuck and immobile, unable to imagine a victory before it actually happens.
They can't imagine the Red Sea parting and the enemy being swallowed up after God made a way through a wall of water. Instead they stare at the vast sea and hear the hoof beats of the enemy bearing down on us. Their mind closes up and imagine a certain death rather than a possibility of God making a way out!
Beloved, God wants to deliver us from fatalistic living and instill faith that doesn't just look at the mountains, but speaks and the mountains move.
Thomas says in verse 16, “Let us go that we may die with Him”. Did he hear anything the Lord was saying regarding waking up Lazarus? If Jesus can raise a dead man, then certainly he can raise Himself up should he meet an untimely end – but we know that isn't the case. Thomas can’t picture Lazarus rising from the dead because like most believer’s because it hasn't been done before why even imagine praying along those lines!
And you would think Thomas after seeing the Lord raise Lazarus from the dead could now imagine and believe how Jesus Himself would be raised by the Father. But Thomas refused to believe until he touched the Lord’s nailed scarred hands and side. But to those who believe with out seeing are more blessed for they see through the eyes of faith.
Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." (John 20:29 NIV).
Just imagine what God can do when you pray bold, vivid and living prayers!
Remember Jesus comforted Lazarus sisters’ that this sickness did not lead to death (John 11:4). Yes, Lazarus physically died, but he was not spiritual dead as those who are outside of Christ. Jesus viewed Lazarus as taking a nap (John 11:11).
How many dreams, hopes and plans are just taking a rest while waiting for the Lord to breath life into them? But to us, it's over, too far gone and deeply buried under layers of unbelief and doubt. Why resurrect a broken relationship? Why stir to life a dream of being a minister? Why even try to imagine a life that is full of hope and peace when I made so many mistakes? Besides, some might say, leave the past alone, it's best to just move on!
In Mark 5:39 Jesus went to raise a young girl from the dead. Those weeping in the house ridiculed him. How many things buried in our heart appear quite dead? Even Sarah, Abraham's wife, laughed when she was told she'd have a son at her age!
And then there is a Thomas who was grounded in the factual, reality. He had to touch in order to believe. Sadly, there are some who are just black and white thinkers – there is no color in their imagination. What can be touched, handled, seen or tasted is considered truth. They are concrete believers, stuck and immobile, unable to imagine a victory before it actually happens.
They can't imagine the Red Sea parting and the enemy being swallowed up after God made a way through a wall of water. Instead they stare at the vast sea and hear the hoof beats of the enemy bearing down on us. Their mind closes up and imagine a certain death rather than a possibility of God making a way out!
Beloved, God wants to deliver us from fatalistic living and instill faith that doesn't just look at the mountains, but speaks and the mountains move.
Thomas says in verse 16, “Let us go that we may die with Him”. Did he hear anything the Lord was saying regarding waking up Lazarus? If Jesus can raise a dead man, then certainly he can raise Himself up should he meet an untimely end – but we know that isn't the case. Thomas can’t picture Lazarus rising from the dead because like most believer’s because it hasn't been done before why even imagine praying along those lines!
And you would think Thomas after seeing the Lord raise Lazarus from the dead could now imagine and believe how Jesus Himself would be raised by the Father. But Thomas refused to believe until he touched the Lord’s nailed scarred hands and side. But to those who believe with out seeing are more blessed for they see through the eyes of faith.
Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." (John 20:29 NIV).
Just imagine what God can do when you pray bold, vivid and living prayers!
Monday, March 11, 2013
Peace Like A River
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.
Horatio Spafford (October 20, 1828 – October 16, 1888) out of deep anguish penned the beloved hymn It Is Well with My Soul.
Horatio experienced the death of his only son in 1871 at the age of four shortly after the great Chicago Fire which ruined him financially. At the time, he was a lawyer who had heavily invested in property which the fire destroyed. An economic downturn in 1873 furthered his losses. He planned a trip to Europe with his family aboard the SS Ville du Havre. Some pressing business made for late change in plans so his wife and four daughters went ahead of him. As the ship crossed the Atlantic, it collided with Loch Earn. His wife Anna survived. She sent him the now famous telegram, "Saved alone . . .". (Wikipedia).
Horatio traveled to meet his wife and the words of the now famous hymn flowed from his heart as the ship passed near the place he lost his daughters.
Beloved, there is day or season where we may suffer tremendous loss. And as life carries us forward along its current, we must come to a place of absolute surrender to the sovereignty of God. Horatio lost land, finances, his daughters but he did not lose His God. Peering over the rail of the ship down at the gray icy waters that stole the life of his daughters, Horatio resolved to bless the Lord. Like Job, he surrender his soul to the one who understand his suffering and pain.
And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD. (Job 1:21 KJV).
Can you worship when your wife walks out the front door without any explanation? When your husband’s calls to say he’s with someone else? Or when the home you built with care is foreclosed and auctioned off? When the promotion you were promise was given to someone else and you are shown the door because your job was eliminated? When you stand over the one you loved, praying and hoping for healing, only to watch their eyes close forever?
For those today who may be suffering and in need of comfort, take a moment to read Psalms 103. May the God of peace surround you and calm the storms raging inside. God is still worthy to be praised, even if we don't understand why such loss and pain. May we all come to that place like Horatio who in a painful whisper to God, could say, "It is well with my soul."
In that moment, you will experience a river of peace that will carry you through the night and bring you safely into the arms of Jesus.
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.
Horatio Spafford (October 20, 1828 – October 16, 1888) out of deep anguish penned the beloved hymn It Is Well with My Soul.
Horatio experienced the death of his only son in 1871 at the age of four shortly after the great Chicago Fire which ruined him financially. At the time, he was a lawyer who had heavily invested in property which the fire destroyed. An economic downturn in 1873 furthered his losses. He planned a trip to Europe with his family aboard the SS Ville du Havre. Some pressing business made for late change in plans so his wife and four daughters went ahead of him. As the ship crossed the Atlantic, it collided with Loch Earn. His wife Anna survived. She sent him the now famous telegram, "Saved alone . . .". (Wikipedia).
Horatio traveled to meet his wife and the words of the now famous hymn flowed from his heart as the ship passed near the place he lost his daughters.
Beloved, there is day or season where we may suffer tremendous loss. And as life carries us forward along its current, we must come to a place of absolute surrender to the sovereignty of God. Horatio lost land, finances, his daughters but he did not lose His God. Peering over the rail of the ship down at the gray icy waters that stole the life of his daughters, Horatio resolved to bless the Lord. Like Job, he surrender his soul to the one who understand his suffering and pain.
And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD. (Job 1:21 KJV).
Can you worship when your wife walks out the front door without any explanation? When your husband’s calls to say he’s with someone else? Or when the home you built with care is foreclosed and auctioned off? When the promotion you were promise was given to someone else and you are shown the door because your job was eliminated? When you stand over the one you loved, praying and hoping for healing, only to watch their eyes close forever?
For those today who may be suffering and in need of comfort, take a moment to read Psalms 103. May the God of peace surround you and calm the storms raging inside. God is still worthy to be praised, even if we don't understand why such loss and pain. May we all come to that place like Horatio who in a painful whisper to God, could say, "It is well with my soul."
In that moment, you will experience a river of peace that will carry you through the night and bring you safely into the arms of Jesus.
Sunday, March 10, 2013
Cultivating Hope in Frustrating Times
Frustration is one of those strong emotions that we experience from opposition that creates a blockage to our momentum and motivation. Merriam Webster defines frustration as “a deep chronic sense or state of insecurity and dissatisfaction arising from unresolved problems or unfulfilled needs”.
To have hope in frustrating times means we have to cultivate three things:
We must learn contentment. I Timothy 6:8, "But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that." (NIV).
We must believe in His all sufficiency in our deficiency. Learning to be content requires us to have the Holy Spirit uproot the attitude and spirit of covetousness. Our culture of entitlement says “I’ll get what I want when I want and how I want it regardless to what others think or say.” Think of Abraham, a man of much possessions and a rich promise of being a father of many nations yet, he never possessed the land he lived in as he was just a sojourner and he won’t see the physical nation of Israel coming out of Egypt to take the Promised Land. Though Jesus did say Abraham saw the day of Lord and rejoiced.
We must learn to abide. John 15:4,"Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me." (NIV)
Live where the Lord abides even in places we rather not go. Abiding goes hand in hand with waiting. It means that there is set boundaries in which we learn to remain and patiently wait upon the Lord for direction. Frustration comes when we take matters into our hands rather than settle our hearts and minds long enough to hear God’s counsel. Even when we are surrounded by frustrated individuals that in turn frustrate us, we must make the choice to remain in the Spirit. How is this done? We start by being honest with the Lord regarding our problem, how we feel and ask for His help. And we must be willing to receive the truth when He speaks about our present condition.
Learn an attitude of worship. Philippians 4:4 "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" (NIV).
When we are frustrated, it almost always starts with a bad attitude. We learn to confess our bad attitude quickly and ask for gratitude (a form of spiritual worship) to be restored. When we have a bad attitude our disposition changes toward someone and we become cold, indifferent and callous. We stop caring. Hope restores a proper attitude that with the Lord’s will make a way for us. We are not stuck. This is not our fate but it’s only temporary. We are truly moving from glory to glory. How we respond well or poorly will have long lasting effects
To have hope in frustrating times means we have to cultivate three things:
We must learn contentment. I Timothy 6:8, "But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that." (NIV).
We must believe in His all sufficiency in our deficiency. Learning to be content requires us to have the Holy Spirit uproot the attitude and spirit of covetousness. Our culture of entitlement says “I’ll get what I want when I want and how I want it regardless to what others think or say.” Think of Abraham, a man of much possessions and a rich promise of being a father of many nations yet, he never possessed the land he lived in as he was just a sojourner and he won’t see the physical nation of Israel coming out of Egypt to take the Promised Land. Though Jesus did say Abraham saw the day of Lord and rejoiced.
We must learn to abide. John 15:4,"Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me." (NIV)
Live where the Lord abides even in places we rather not go. Abiding goes hand in hand with waiting. It means that there is set boundaries in which we learn to remain and patiently wait upon the Lord for direction. Frustration comes when we take matters into our hands rather than settle our hearts and minds long enough to hear God’s counsel. Even when we are surrounded by frustrated individuals that in turn frustrate us, we must make the choice to remain in the Spirit. How is this done? We start by being honest with the Lord regarding our problem, how we feel and ask for His help. And we must be willing to receive the truth when He speaks about our present condition.
Learn an attitude of worship. Philippians 4:4 "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" (NIV).
When we are frustrated, it almost always starts with a bad attitude. We learn to confess our bad attitude quickly and ask for gratitude (a form of spiritual worship) to be restored. When we have a bad attitude our disposition changes toward someone and we become cold, indifferent and callous. We stop caring. Hope restores a proper attitude that with the Lord’s will make a way for us. We are not stuck. This is not our fate but it’s only temporary. We are truly moving from glory to glory. How we respond well or poorly will have long lasting effects
Saturday, March 9, 2013
Quenching the Spirit
It is amazing to consider the Spirit of the Almighty God living inside us. His power knows no bounds and the work He performs in and through us is miraculous and wonderful.
Sadly, we can quench the Spirit (I Thessalonians 5:19). Quenched is a word we don't often use everyday except when we are thirsty. In the original it means to extinguish, to suppress and stifle. Romans 1:18 describes those who suppress (hold back) the truth by their unrighteousness.
It says in the Scripture, "and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." (John 8:32). When we disregard the truth for a lie, we extinguish the Holy Spirit's influence to lead us into all righteousness.
Gehazi was a servant of Elijah who followed Naaman after he was healed. When he returned to the house, "Elijah asked, "Where have you been, Gehazi?" Elijah asked. "Your servant didn't go anywhere," Gehazi answered." (2 Kings 5:25 NIV). Gehazi lied to the prophet. By doing so, he suppressed the truth by an ungodly act. He took material possessions from Naaman when he was commanded by Elijah not to do so (2 Kings 5:26).
Elijah ask a very interesting question: "Was not my spirit with you when the man got down from his chariot to meet you?" (5:26). The Lord never leaves us or forsake us, but we can forsake Him. When we quench the Spirit, we grieve His heart - and wherever we go or whatever we do that grieves Him - He is ever present!
The consequence of Gehazi suppressing the truth through his disobedience was very serious. He became leprous. Another man took it on himself to do something contrary to what he was told. King Uzziah was struck with leprosy that broke out on his forehead (2 Chronicles 26:19).
If God speaks to you today, heed to His voice and don't turn away from Him. He is our life, our only source of truth that will bring health to our bodies and minds. Let's the fire of God truly consume us rather than put out the passion He has put in our hearts to obey His word.
Sadly, we can quench the Spirit (I Thessalonians 5:19). Quenched is a word we don't often use everyday except when we are thirsty. In the original it means to extinguish, to suppress and stifle. Romans 1:18 describes those who suppress (hold back) the truth by their unrighteousness.
It says in the Scripture, "and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." (John 8:32). When we disregard the truth for a lie, we extinguish the Holy Spirit's influence to lead us into all righteousness.
Gehazi was a servant of Elijah who followed Naaman after he was healed. When he returned to the house, "Elijah asked, "Where have you been, Gehazi?" Elijah asked. "Your servant didn't go anywhere," Gehazi answered." (2 Kings 5:25 NIV). Gehazi lied to the prophet. By doing so, he suppressed the truth by an ungodly act. He took material possessions from Naaman when he was commanded by Elijah not to do so (2 Kings 5:26).
Elijah ask a very interesting question: "Was not my spirit with you when the man got down from his chariot to meet you?" (5:26). The Lord never leaves us or forsake us, but we can forsake Him. When we quench the Spirit, we grieve His heart - and wherever we go or whatever we do that grieves Him - He is ever present!
The consequence of Gehazi suppressing the truth through his disobedience was very serious. He became leprous. Another man took it on himself to do something contrary to what he was told. King Uzziah was struck with leprosy that broke out on his forehead (2 Chronicles 26:19).
If God speaks to you today, heed to His voice and don't turn away from Him. He is our life, our only source of truth that will bring health to our bodies and minds. Let's the fire of God truly consume us rather than put out the passion He has put in our hearts to obey His word.
Friday, March 8, 2013
I Want To Live!
As a young man, I struggled with a desire to die.
The New England weather was too much for my lungs leaving me in a wake of asthma attacks and pneumonia. My skin suffered from eczema on most of my extremities that made my skin crack, peel and bleed. My eyes had dark circles, a natural complexion, only worsened because of stress and anxiety. Unfortunately, it drew people’s attention to my appearance. I’d been asked for drugs or if I’d been abused. I was given the nick name panda eyes. I sunk deeper into depression and self-pity.
But all this discomfort seemed superficial to the longing of connecting with my father. As child, there was a brief relationship centered on activities, but as I grew older his silence and dissonant caused any father-son relationship to break free from its moorings. I was adrift and lost. Fortunately, my relationship with my mom and siblings was strong as we depended on each other in those difficult years. At that time, God was the center in all we did as a family giving us strength and a measure of hope.
Still the hunger for a father grew stronger and threatened to swallow me. One late night, I found myself driving to the nearest city where I searched for a relationship. While the details of that particular night so long ago are lost, there is one thing that I recall so vividly. I remember saying aloud as I drove along I-95, “I want to die!”
How could I have known in that moment that I agreed with a dark, spiritual power? The spirit of death oppressed and tormented me for years until God brought deliverance some 25 years later.
In 2009 out of the depths of my heart there was a cry to live. This is when I received a particular medical report greatly impacting my life.
Mark 10:45 says, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (NIV) For me to live again was to acknowledge that Jesus held the power to life alone. He is my ransom from this grave, this bondage to death.
For someone today, it’s time to say goodbye to a fabricated life layered by well crafted lies. Or a life piece together in order to survive, just to get by. Say goodbye to a life others think you should lead regardless to what you think or capable of doing.
Ask the Lord to give you a desire to live again. Only He can stir to life again a heart that has long stopped beating because of dreams and desires that have died and with it, any hope of a resurrection.
The fall of 2013 will mark four years that God has healed me of asthma. My father and I have been writing and calling each over the past 2 - 3 years. God can bring the dead back to life! Thank you, my Jesus!
The New England weather was too much for my lungs leaving me in a wake of asthma attacks and pneumonia. My skin suffered from eczema on most of my extremities that made my skin crack, peel and bleed. My eyes had dark circles, a natural complexion, only worsened because of stress and anxiety. Unfortunately, it drew people’s attention to my appearance. I’d been asked for drugs or if I’d been abused. I was given the nick name panda eyes. I sunk deeper into depression and self-pity.
But all this discomfort seemed superficial to the longing of connecting with my father. As child, there was a brief relationship centered on activities, but as I grew older his silence and dissonant caused any father-son relationship to break free from its moorings. I was adrift and lost. Fortunately, my relationship with my mom and siblings was strong as we depended on each other in those difficult years. At that time, God was the center in all we did as a family giving us strength and a measure of hope.
Still the hunger for a father grew stronger and threatened to swallow me. One late night, I found myself driving to the nearest city where I searched for a relationship. While the details of that particular night so long ago are lost, there is one thing that I recall so vividly. I remember saying aloud as I drove along I-95, “I want to die!”
How could I have known in that moment that I agreed with a dark, spiritual power? The spirit of death oppressed and tormented me for years until God brought deliverance some 25 years later.
In 2009 out of the depths of my heart there was a cry to live. This is when I received a particular medical report greatly impacting my life.
Mark 10:45 says, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (NIV) For me to live again was to acknowledge that Jesus held the power to life alone. He is my ransom from this grave, this bondage to death.
For someone today, it’s time to say goodbye to a fabricated life layered by well crafted lies. Or a life piece together in order to survive, just to get by. Say goodbye to a life others think you should lead regardless to what you think or capable of doing.
Ask the Lord to give you a desire to live again. Only He can stir to life again a heart that has long stopped beating because of dreams and desires that have died and with it, any hope of a resurrection.
The fall of 2013 will mark four years that God has healed me of asthma. My father and I have been writing and calling each over the past 2 - 3 years. God can bring the dead back to life! Thank you, my Jesus!
Thursday, March 7, 2013
The Seduction Of A Lie
Satan best communicates a lie through the use of an illusion, a seductive image to appease our senses. He makes something to appear to be true, perhaps even factual or logical, but it's nothing short of a lie when confronted by the unchanging truth of God's word.
I John 2:16 tells us, “For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes (italics mine), and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.” What we view in the natural impacts how we see God which in turn affects our understanding of God's word.
In other words, we are what we believe by what we perceive - be it the truth or a lie.
Paul writes in II Corinthians 4:4, “In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
Consider the devil tempting Eve in the garden. He came in a form of a snake. The serpent is crafty, sly and shrewd. Today most people are fearful of snakes, but in the garden where there was no fear, Eve was not taken by surprise. What made this snake different from any other snake was that it approached as if invited and talked directly to her.
Lucifer’s name means the light-bearer (Isaiah 14:12-13). He presents to Eve (and Adam who was with her) what seems to be an enlightening and enticing message that they can be like God knowing good and evil.
As it is true today, the devil tempted Eve by accusing God of lying. Lying is in direct opposition to the nature and heart of God. He is truth. Satan, on the other hand, is the father of lies (John 8:44). The devil tells Eve that God is holding back something she wants, something good, something she deserves. Before Eve eats the fruit, she consumes the lie and is blinded from seeing what really was going on in the spiritual realm. The devil lied saying she can be like God knowing both good and evil (Genesis 3:2). Scripture tells us that once she considered the fruit that it was good for food, pleasing to the eye and desirable to gain wisdom, she took and ate it (3:3).
Sadly, once Adam and Eve’s eyes were open, they realized their sin and hid from God.
Rather than enlightenment, Adam and Eve found themselves in darkness, separated from the God who deeply loved them.
And so it is today when men and women who reject God’s truth having been blinded by the god of this age. This same god does not always appear as snake. He comes wrapped in a false, seductive light while leaving countless people blinded in his chilling shadow of deception. Some even try to hide from God whenever He calls out to them much the same way He did to Adam and Eve.
He calls out not to condemn, but draw them lovingly back to His heart.
I John 2:16 tells us, “For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes (italics mine), and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.” What we view in the natural impacts how we see God which in turn affects our understanding of God's word.
In other words, we are what we believe by what we perceive - be it the truth or a lie.
Paul writes in II Corinthians 4:4, “In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
Consider the devil tempting Eve in the garden. He came in a form of a snake. The serpent is crafty, sly and shrewd. Today most people are fearful of snakes, but in the garden where there was no fear, Eve was not taken by surprise. What made this snake different from any other snake was that it approached as if invited and talked directly to her.
Lucifer’s name means the light-bearer (Isaiah 14:12-13). He presents to Eve (and Adam who was with her) what seems to be an enlightening and enticing message that they can be like God knowing good and evil.
As it is true today, the devil tempted Eve by accusing God of lying. Lying is in direct opposition to the nature and heart of God. He is truth. Satan, on the other hand, is the father of lies (John 8:44). The devil tells Eve that God is holding back something she wants, something good, something she deserves. Before Eve eats the fruit, she consumes the lie and is blinded from seeing what really was going on in the spiritual realm. The devil lied saying she can be like God knowing both good and evil (Genesis 3:2). Scripture tells us that once she considered the fruit that it was good for food, pleasing to the eye and desirable to gain wisdom, she took and ate it (3:3).
Sadly, once Adam and Eve’s eyes were open, they realized their sin and hid from God.
Rather than enlightenment, Adam and Eve found themselves in darkness, separated from the God who deeply loved them.
And so it is today when men and women who reject God’s truth having been blinded by the god of this age. This same god does not always appear as snake. He comes wrapped in a false, seductive light while leaving countless people blinded in his chilling shadow of deception. Some even try to hide from God whenever He calls out to them much the same way He did to Adam and Eve.
He calls out not to condemn, but draw them lovingly back to His heart.
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Sweeter Than The Honeycomb
King Saul was the first king to rule over Israel. As the eldest son, Jonathan had a bright and promising future ahead of him. He was slated to be the first of many sons to succeed their fathers to the throne. Jonathan would have the sweet life. A life of power, privilege and prestige. But Jonathan would never be king. God had chosen another man in Saul’s place.
Still Jonathan won a great victory, but his father commanded the people not to eat until he had vengeance on his enemies. Soon the men grew weary and faint from hunger (I Samuel 14:24).
You may have a Saul like spirit in your family or friends who threaten to cut off your supply until you accomplish something for them. Sadly, there are those in the church who exhaust the saints to have a victory at any cost. They shut up the word of God preventing those who are hungry in receiving God's bread, the word of God.
But God has something good in store for us as he did for Jonathan that far outlast the terrible circumstances he found himself.
Jonathan and the troops enter the woods tired and faint. It says honey was oozing out of the tree. This was after all the land flowing with milk and honey (Exodus 3:8). Honey is represented as God’s word, being sweeter than the honeycomb (Psalms 119:103).
Jonathan extended the rod in his hand and picked up the honey comb. In our weariness, we must extend our hand to lift up the word of God once again in this generation that will try to prevent us from eating God's good word. The same word that has been neglected, fallen down and largely been forgotten.
Once Jonathan tasted the honey it says his eyes were brightened. God's sweet word will bring revelation to our hearts.
The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; The judgments of the LORD are true; they are righteous altogether. They are more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold; Sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb (Psalms 19:9-10 NASB).
What promises has God spoken to you that you need to once again pick up and consume?
Still Jonathan won a great victory, but his father commanded the people not to eat until he had vengeance on his enemies. Soon the men grew weary and faint from hunger (I Samuel 14:24).
You may have a Saul like spirit in your family or friends who threaten to cut off your supply until you accomplish something for them. Sadly, there are those in the church who exhaust the saints to have a victory at any cost. They shut up the word of God preventing those who are hungry in receiving God's bread, the word of God.
But God has something good in store for us as he did for Jonathan that far outlast the terrible circumstances he found himself.
Jonathan and the troops enter the woods tired and faint. It says honey was oozing out of the tree. This was after all the land flowing with milk and honey (Exodus 3:8). Honey is represented as God’s word, being sweeter than the honeycomb (Psalms 119:103).
Jonathan extended the rod in his hand and picked up the honey comb. In our weariness, we must extend our hand to lift up the word of God once again in this generation that will try to prevent us from eating God's good word. The same word that has been neglected, fallen down and largely been forgotten.
Once Jonathan tasted the honey it says his eyes were brightened. God's sweet word will bring revelation to our hearts.
The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; The judgments of the LORD are true; they are righteous altogether. They are more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold; Sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb (Psalms 19:9-10 NASB).
What promises has God spoken to you that you need to once again pick up and consume?
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Innocence
After a long day, my wife and I decided to stop at a local restaurant. Sometime during our meal, I leaned over to my wife and whispered, "Do you think the waitress seems a bit cold?" I couldn't quite discern what was troubling me.
I noticed a faint smile on her lips, but her communication while professional, held little warmth in her tone. She was well dressed, her hair nicely styled and light touches of make up brought out some color and lightness to her attractive face. Still, there was this sense of coldness that made me take a second look at her and listen closely to her words. She spoke very few words as she passed by the table to hand us the bill.
My wife thought for a moment after she left to serve another customer. "She's had a hard life."
A hard life? What makes a hard life, I thought. Was it wrong choices that seemed right at the moment but led to failure? Relationships that promised joy and bliss only to turn bitter, even violent? Or was it the choices of others that stole the innocence of childhood and completely ruin it with their ugliness and hatred?
I could only think of my own life. Of the many wrong turns, of relationships that violated and polluted my soul, of those who took advantage and exploited my innocence and immaturity. Then there was my hard, steely response in rage and destructive acting out.
As we grow older, the circumstances may change but the shell around our heart to protect us remains. It becomes thicker and harder over the years until we are entombed and cut off from feeling anything good in life.
But God can heal this woman (if she did have a hard life) and He can restore to her and us an innocence that was destroyed by others who were cruel and thoughtless. His blood is enough to wash away our sins of bitterness and forgiveness - purity is restored and love can once flood our hearts - melting away the stony exterior.
Psalms 37:6 promises us, "He will make your innocence radiate like the dawn, and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun." (NLT).
I noticed a faint smile on her lips, but her communication while professional, held little warmth in her tone. She was well dressed, her hair nicely styled and light touches of make up brought out some color and lightness to her attractive face. Still, there was this sense of coldness that made me take a second look at her and listen closely to her words. She spoke very few words as she passed by the table to hand us the bill.
My wife thought for a moment after she left to serve another customer. "She's had a hard life."
A hard life? What makes a hard life, I thought. Was it wrong choices that seemed right at the moment but led to failure? Relationships that promised joy and bliss only to turn bitter, even violent? Or was it the choices of others that stole the innocence of childhood and completely ruin it with their ugliness and hatred?
I could only think of my own life. Of the many wrong turns, of relationships that violated and polluted my soul, of those who took advantage and exploited my innocence and immaturity. Then there was my hard, steely response in rage and destructive acting out.
As we grow older, the circumstances may change but the shell around our heart to protect us remains. It becomes thicker and harder over the years until we are entombed and cut off from feeling anything good in life.
But God can heal this woman (if she did have a hard life) and He can restore to her and us an innocence that was destroyed by others who were cruel and thoughtless. His blood is enough to wash away our sins of bitterness and forgiveness - purity is restored and love can once flood our hearts - melting away the stony exterior.
Psalms 37:6 promises us, "He will make your innocence radiate like the dawn, and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun." (NLT).
A Walking Illustration
For many of us who have suffered from shame and regret, the last thing we want to be is a walking illustration. Who wants to be a billboard of a life marked by failure and weakness?
The Apostle Paul writes 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 original Greek word for spectacle means "theater". In other words, we are on a stage for all the world to watch us, including angels and demons. And what will they see?
God takes the life of Paul, a religious zealot who threw many into prison and persecuted the early church to be a living demonstration of God's mercy. The believers were rightfully concerned to believe Paul's confession when he first came to Christ. Soon it was evident his conversion was genuine.
The very man who threw many into prison would also be spending time behind bars where he would write a large portion of the New Testament. As a result, today we can peer into this man's life and learn much - though it was centuries ago - of a man who was transformed and consumed by the passion of Christ.
Yes, Paul had known a life of failure, of causing many pain and making mistakes along the way but a man who willingly displayed the wonderful work of God conforming him to His image.
In same way, Paul describes us a living epistle to be read by all men (2 Corinthians 3:2). Beloved, the wonderful thing of being an living illustration of God's power to change a life, is that people tend to see past the mistakes, sins and failures. They are amazed that you don't go to bars late at night, give way to angry outbursts or use foul language or any other sinful vices.
God will re-write the script just as you step onto the stage. This is what many people will see as Psalms 40:3 describes, "He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD.
The Apostle Paul writes 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 original Greek word for spectacle means "theater". In other words, we are on a stage for all the world to watch us, including angels and demons. And what will they see?
God takes the life of Paul, a religious zealot who threw many into prison and persecuted the early church to be a living demonstration of God's mercy. The believers were rightfully concerned to believe Paul's confession when he first came to Christ. Soon it was evident his conversion was genuine.
The very man who threw many into prison would also be spending time behind bars where he would write a large portion of the New Testament. As a result, today we can peer into this man's life and learn much - though it was centuries ago - of a man who was transformed and consumed by the passion of Christ.
Yes, Paul had known a life of failure, of causing many pain and making mistakes along the way but a man who willingly displayed the wonderful work of God conforming him to His image.
In same way, Paul describes us a living epistle to be read by all men (2 Corinthians 3:2). Beloved, the wonderful thing of being an living illustration of God's power to change a life, is that people tend to see past the mistakes, sins and failures. They are amazed that you don't go to bars late at night, give way to angry outbursts or use foul language or any other sinful vices.
God will re-write the script just as you step onto the stage. This is what many people will see as Psalms 40:3 describes, "He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD.
Monday, March 4, 2013
I'll Never Leave You
The rain dripped from the heavens, each drop laden with icy water that made the young boy's skin shiver, but he seemed completely unaware.
He was lost in a world of his own while kicking up his feet to stir the drenched, golden yellow and red leaves. The sidewalks were layer with the clothes of now naked elms, oaks and chestnut trees. Autumn had come to New England. And his lungs could sense the change. As an asthmatic, the seasonal change meant breathing came in gasps and wheezes. Sometimes he could only whisper a few words to God while trying to catch his breath. The pain in his lower ribs would exhaust him from the laborious efforts to drink in more air.
For now his only thought was getting home from school and out of his wet clothes.
He was aware that he was not alone. God was walking beside him. At least that is what he understood from his mother who daily read the Bible and prayed before going off to school. He liked the verse she read to him one morning. God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." (Hebrews 13:5b NIV).
Of course he read the stories of David, Jonah, Samuel and Abraham. These characters filled his imagination of a God who walked with people, even visited them to do wonderful things. A God who stayed and never left them.
Perhaps the school psychologist thought it was strange to see a young boy separated from the busy crowd in the playground. A young boy who seem to stare up at the sky as if waiting for someone to appear. Then of course there was this noticeable and even audible conversation he was quite happy to have by himself. The boy seem content to be alone. On second thought, he didn't act as if was by himself but rather with someone else.
Many years later before graduating from high school the young man added this inscription under his year book photo. I will never leave you or forsake you.".
And as the years rolled on, when there was terrible rejection, confusion and darkness the man held onto the promise that God would never, never leave him. Even after he had forsaken God for other things and places and people God still visited him and would not relent, but walked with him. Until finally the man grasped His hand once again.
One day an autumn will come, closing the years of this man's life. A time he will take the hand of a God who from the start was with him, and with a final breath, lead him into His eternal home.
The little boy finally reached home, out of the rain of life sorrows, into his Father's house!
He was lost in a world of his own while kicking up his feet to stir the drenched, golden yellow and red leaves. The sidewalks were layer with the clothes of now naked elms, oaks and chestnut trees. Autumn had come to New England. And his lungs could sense the change. As an asthmatic, the seasonal change meant breathing came in gasps and wheezes. Sometimes he could only whisper a few words to God while trying to catch his breath. The pain in his lower ribs would exhaust him from the laborious efforts to drink in more air.
For now his only thought was getting home from school and out of his wet clothes.
He was aware that he was not alone. God was walking beside him. At least that is what he understood from his mother who daily read the Bible and prayed before going off to school. He liked the verse she read to him one morning. God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." (Hebrews 13:5b NIV).
Of course he read the stories of David, Jonah, Samuel and Abraham. These characters filled his imagination of a God who walked with people, even visited them to do wonderful things. A God who stayed and never left them.
Perhaps the school psychologist thought it was strange to see a young boy separated from the busy crowd in the playground. A young boy who seem to stare up at the sky as if waiting for someone to appear. Then of course there was this noticeable and even audible conversation he was quite happy to have by himself. The boy seem content to be alone. On second thought, he didn't act as if was by himself but rather with someone else.
Many years later before graduating from high school the young man added this inscription under his year book photo. I will never leave you or forsake you.".
And as the years rolled on, when there was terrible rejection, confusion and darkness the man held onto the promise that God would never, never leave him. Even after he had forsaken God for other things and places and people God still visited him and would not relent, but walked with him. Until finally the man grasped His hand once again.
One day an autumn will come, closing the years of this man's life. A time he will take the hand of a God who from the start was with him, and with a final breath, lead him into His eternal home.
The little boy finally reached home, out of the rain of life sorrows, into his Father's house!
Saturday, March 2, 2013
Storms of Impossibilities
God is speaking and acting on behalf of those across the earth who put their trust in Him. To boldly believe God can take whatever is impossible and make it possible through His power.
Jesus said to a father who son was tormented by an evil spirit, "'If you can'?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for him who believes." (Mark 9:22 NIV).
Listen my beloved, God's grace can break through walls of a man or woman who is hardened against the Lord. He can bring home the wayward son who has lost himself to the things of the world. Or a daughter who rebels to marry a man who is bent on destroying every once of life in her. And God is strong enough to heal our wounded, weary hearts!
God can move the mountain when we are moved to believe Him.
It's too easy to be swayed and influenced by what we see in the natural as being a tall, giant unmovable mountain. You may say there is many immovable boulders, trees well rooted into the ground and freezing layers of ice on the top!
But if we don't trust Him, we will never see what is waiting behind that mountain - a lush, green broad place that God wants to bring us (Psalms 18:19). A place of safety and peace.
Beloved, there is no power on earth or in hell that God can not step in to say, "Enough!" And instead of sleepless nights and anxious driven days, He calms the raging seas of our mind to bring lasting peace.
Again, when we are at peace to surrender that there is nothing we can do apart from Him, then His peace reigns over our hearts and minds. Is not about resigning but committing our hearts to Him. Believing He will act according to His word. But when we spend every waking hour scheming and plotting how to get around, under or over something we will know very little of trust in a God who truly cares to answer us in our desperate hour.
Here's a precious promise for us who might be in a storm of impossibilities. It's from Psalms 107:28-30.
"LORD, help!" they cried in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress. He calmed the storm to a whisper and stilled the waves. What a blessing was that stillness as he brought them safely into harbor! (NLT).
Jesus said to a father who son was tormented by an evil spirit, "'If you can'?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for him who believes." (Mark 9:22 NIV).
Listen my beloved, God's grace can break through walls of a man or woman who is hardened against the Lord. He can bring home the wayward son who has lost himself to the things of the world. Or a daughter who rebels to marry a man who is bent on destroying every once of life in her. And God is strong enough to heal our wounded, weary hearts!
God can move the mountain when we are moved to believe Him.
It's too easy to be swayed and influenced by what we see in the natural as being a tall, giant unmovable mountain. You may say there is many immovable boulders, trees well rooted into the ground and freezing layers of ice on the top!
But if we don't trust Him, we will never see what is waiting behind that mountain - a lush, green broad place that God wants to bring us (Psalms 18:19). A place of safety and peace.
Beloved, there is no power on earth or in hell that God can not step in to say, "Enough!" And instead of sleepless nights and anxious driven days, He calms the raging seas of our mind to bring lasting peace.
Again, when we are at peace to surrender that there is nothing we can do apart from Him, then His peace reigns over our hearts and minds. Is not about resigning but committing our hearts to Him. Believing He will act according to His word. But when we spend every waking hour scheming and plotting how to get around, under or over something we will know very little of trust in a God who truly cares to answer us in our desperate hour.
Here's a precious promise for us who might be in a storm of impossibilities. It's from Psalms 107:28-30.
"LORD, help!" they cried in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress. He calmed the storm to a whisper and stilled the waves. What a blessing was that stillness as he brought them safely into harbor! (NLT).
Where Ever You Go
Ruth lost her husband and wasn't about lose her mother-in-law. She honored Naomi and deeply loved her enough to follow her across the border of Israel - to a people who had a history of conflict with her own nation - though for now there was peace. Her people had a dark history. They were descendants of Lot's daughters who committed incest (Genesis 19:35-37).
Her heart trembled at the thought of leaving all that was familiar and comforting, but she was drawn by the rich history of Naomi's God who did miraculous signs from Egypt to Canaan land. She was most interested in one particular woman. Naomi talked about her one late evening. Rahab, the harlot who was saved, when Jericho was destroyed. She thought of the woman who was so brave to hid the spies at risk of her own life. Later, Rahab found a home in Israel, the enemy of her people.
How little did Ruth know she would marry Boaz, the son of Rahab (Matthew 1:5)!
Now she watched Oprah her sister-in-law give Naomi a light kiss on her face. Slowly she turned away. She walked along a narrow dirt path never once looking back. Ruth remained rooted to the ground and Naomi couldn't change her mind to join Oprah.
I believe the words of Ruth 1:16-17 speaks so powerfully of a prayer we must be willing to offer to the Lord.
But Ruth answered, "Stop urging me to abandon you and to turn back from following you. Because wherever you go, I'll go. Wherever you live, I'll live. Your people will be my people, and your God, my God. Where you die, I'll die and be buried. May the LORD do this to me—and more—if anything except death comes between you and me." (ISV).
Are we willing to go where He goes? Are we willing to cross the border into what might seem like foreign and unfriendly territory to be with Him? Are we willing to sacrifice our comfort, sorrow, and joys in exchange for His own? And are we willing to lay down our lives just to be nearer to Christ?
Ruth's first step with Naomi would walk her into Biblical history and into the blood line of King David and later, the Messiah. Unlike Oprah who turned away and as a result walked out of the pages of the Scriptures only to be forgotten.
Are we willing to say, "I will go where You go Lord!"
For where He leads us will take us not only into a promised land but into everlasting life.
Her heart trembled at the thought of leaving all that was familiar and comforting, but she was drawn by the rich history of Naomi's God who did miraculous signs from Egypt to Canaan land. She was most interested in one particular woman. Naomi talked about her one late evening. Rahab, the harlot who was saved, when Jericho was destroyed. She thought of the woman who was so brave to hid the spies at risk of her own life. Later, Rahab found a home in Israel, the enemy of her people.
How little did Ruth know she would marry Boaz, the son of Rahab (Matthew 1:5)!
Now she watched Oprah her sister-in-law give Naomi a light kiss on her face. Slowly she turned away. She walked along a narrow dirt path never once looking back. Ruth remained rooted to the ground and Naomi couldn't change her mind to join Oprah.
I believe the words of Ruth 1:16-17 speaks so powerfully of a prayer we must be willing to offer to the Lord.
But Ruth answered, "Stop urging me to abandon you and to turn back from following you. Because wherever you go, I'll go. Wherever you live, I'll live. Your people will be my people, and your God, my God. Where you die, I'll die and be buried. May the LORD do this to me—and more—if anything except death comes between you and me." (ISV).
Are we willing to go where He goes? Are we willing to cross the border into what might seem like foreign and unfriendly territory to be with Him? Are we willing to sacrifice our comfort, sorrow, and joys in exchange for His own? And are we willing to lay down our lives just to be nearer to Christ?
Ruth's first step with Naomi would walk her into Biblical history and into the blood line of King David and later, the Messiah. Unlike Oprah who turned away and as a result walked out of the pages of the Scriptures only to be forgotten.
Are we willing to say, "I will go where You go Lord!"
For where He leads us will take us not only into a promised land but into everlasting life.
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