Want peace?
Wow! I love this Scripture.
Philippians 4:4-7, "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice ! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." NIV
I don't know about you, but I have a lot of decisions to make. God is doing amazing things...yet with all that He is doing there is no clear cut, neon sign saying, "HERE IT IS!" At least not YET! BUT there will be. In just the right time.
In the mean time, as I find myself excited but anxious, wanting TO KNOW WHEN and HOW God is going to move, I need to feel His peace. How about you? Do you find yourself anxious? Got lots of questions? Wonder how God is going to pull off your miracle? Look at the instructions for peace found in Philippians 4: 4-7.
First, REJOICE and let your gentleness be evident to all...because the Lord is near. Rejoicing is a conscious choice. Choose to remember that the Lord is near. Let your testimony and calm gentle spirit be a witness to the world of your confidence in your God! I know for me if I choose to think about all the unconnected dots I fill my mind with uncertainty. BUT...if I choose to remind myself of WHO God is...what He has promised...What He has done and is going to do...I feel peace. It's a choice. Sometimes depending on the size of the battle I have to remind myself almost by the minute to choose to meditate on GOD!
Second, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." This is a two step process. While we remind ourselves of Who God is and that He is near, we need to turn to God and lift our concerns to Him...again choosing to NOT be anxious but rather pray. IN EVERYTHING pray and petition and present your requests to God. Tell Him your desires, hopes, and wishes. Appeal to Him. Entreat Him to move on your behalf. We need to plead our circumstances to Him and ask Him to move on our behalf.
Third, we need to closely tie step three with step two, because as we "plead" our circumstance we need to do so with thanksgiving. It's not that we have to "BEG" from God to move on our behalf, rather we rejoice knowing He will move and work all things together for our good. WHY? Because that's WHO HE IS. So as we pray, petition, and take our every need to Him...we need to do so with a heart of thanksgiving. Knowing He hears us and that when we ask in accordance with His will...we have what we have asked for.
James 1:5-6, "If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt..." NIV
GOD is good. He is trustworthy. So as we pray let us pray with confidence. Here's my prayer for today...if it applies...you can pray it too!
PRAYER: Father, I'm filled with anxious thought. I've rested on my own resources and strength. Please forgive me. Lord, You know the needs I have. You know all the decisions I need to make. And Lord, I desperately need YOU to move on my behalf. Provide me with ample provisions. Open wide the doors You want me to walk through and quickly close the doors I do NOT need to entertain. Thank You that You lead me. Thank You that I know You have a plan and are working everything out for me and my family. Thank You that You said I will lack NO good thing and that You have given me everything that I need that pertains to life and godliness. I can't wait to see the miracles You provide. Thank you for Your love and mercy. Fill me now with Your peace. In Jesus name, amen!
And now, as Scripture promised in Philippians 4:4-7...I feel the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, guarding my heart and my mind in Christ Jesus.
Keep praying until you feel it too! Have an awesome weekend!
Friday, April 30, 2010
Thursday, April 29, 2010
The Tragic Sinking of Man's Efforts
"Not even God himself could sink this ship."
Whether this quote about the Titanic was ever made, or just a legend past down over the years...the truth is man's confidence in their own creation became their downfall. The Titanic could occupy 3000 people, but the engineers only provided a little over 1100 lifeboats.
The tragic sinking of the Titanic demonstrates that as with all man's efforts... failure can happen.
As I see the bigger picture of God's plan for my life and realize even more just how big God is, I realize my need for complete dependence on Him.
In John 15:5-6 Jesus says, "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." NIV
As I read this passage and examined my thoughts and feelings this morning; I tried clearing the thoughts running through my mind, differentiating my voice from God's, and separating God's promises from Satan's lies.
And, I asked myself...Who are you trusting in?
* If you are trusting in your abilities...you are certain to fail.
* If you are trusting in your finances...you are of utmost to be pitied.
* If you are trusting in your strength...watch out...life is but a vapor.
The truth is, we can do NOTHING apart from Him. Our greatest efforts can sink just like the Titanic. Our most brilliant wisdom and well thought plans can crash like our economy...time and time again.
On the contrary however...as Paul declares in Philippians 4:13, "I (WE) can do everything through him who gives me (US) strength." NIV
NOTHING is impossible with God. (LUKE 1:37) And in addition, EVERYTHING is possible to Him who believes. (Mark 9:23)
Friends, we have been called to do a work, designed by Him for a purpose, created with distinction...Ephesians 2:10 says, "For we are God's workmanship , created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." NIV
So, let's stand firm in our faith, trusting fully in our God, knowing He will do what He has promised.
PRAYER: Father, we can do nothing except you breathe life into it. So we ask that You show us Your perfect will and empower us to do all You have called us to do. Help us to bring glory. Shower us with Your favor. In Jesus name, amen.
Whether this quote about the Titanic was ever made, or just a legend past down over the years...the truth is man's confidence in their own creation became their downfall. The Titanic could occupy 3000 people, but the engineers only provided a little over 1100 lifeboats.
The tragic sinking of the Titanic demonstrates that as with all man's efforts... failure can happen.
As I see the bigger picture of God's plan for my life and realize even more just how big God is, I realize my need for complete dependence on Him.
In John 15:5-6 Jesus says, "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." NIV
As I read this passage and examined my thoughts and feelings this morning; I tried clearing the thoughts running through my mind, differentiating my voice from God's, and separating God's promises from Satan's lies.
And, I asked myself...Who are you trusting in?
* If you are trusting in your abilities...you are certain to fail.
* If you are trusting in your finances...you are of utmost to be pitied.
* If you are trusting in your strength...watch out...life is but a vapor.
The truth is, we can do NOTHING apart from Him. Our greatest efforts can sink just like the Titanic. Our most brilliant wisdom and well thought plans can crash like our economy...time and time again.
On the contrary however...as Paul declares in Philippians 4:13, "I (WE) can do everything through him who gives me (US) strength." NIV
NOTHING is impossible with God. (LUKE 1:37) And in addition, EVERYTHING is possible to Him who believes. (Mark 9:23)
Friends, we have been called to do a work, designed by Him for a purpose, created with distinction...Ephesians 2:10 says, "For we are God's workmanship , created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." NIV
So, let's stand firm in our faith, trusting fully in our God, knowing He will do what He has promised.
PRAYER: Father, we can do nothing except you breathe life into it. So we ask that You show us Your perfect will and empower us to do all You have called us to do. Help us to bring glory. Shower us with Your favor. In Jesus name, amen.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Barely Strength to Speak?
Daniel 10:16-17,
"...I am overcome with anguish because of the vision, my lord, and I am helpless. How can I, your servant, talk with you, my lord? My strength is gone and I can hardly breathe." NIV
As of late, God keeps bringing me back to the life of Daniel. I guess because I can relate so much to how he feels in this passage of Scripture. It's not that anything is wrong...it's that what God has shown me is so big!
When Daniel prayed this prayer, he had just seen God's vision. The vision overpowered Daniel's cognitive ability to comprehend just how awesome God's plans were. He couldn't understand the whole picture...he felt as if all of his strength was gone...to the point he could hardly breathe. The weight of what had been revealed was so enormous that he couldn't take it all in.
That's where I am.
God is revealing a vision for my life and ministry that supersedes my greatest imaginations. He's opening opportunities for ministry in over 7 different countries...and His vision of world missions and ministry opportunities are so BIG that sometimes it just takes my breath away. I feel as if I can hardly breathe. I feel as if I don't even know how to speak.
I start wondering How? When? With Who? Why?...But mostly HOW & WHEN!
Perhaps you are experiencing the same? Do you find yourself trying to FIGURE it ALL out? Ever wonder how God's call is going to fit with all the other pieces?
Hear God's promises...
Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." NIV
Isaiah 43:18-19, "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland." NIV
Isaiah 40:28-31, "Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." NIV
God fulfills His promises; our job is to rest and allow Him to fill us with strength. When we are weak He will make us strong. We need to position ourselves to hear His voice and tell Him how we feel...and then...like Daniel allow Him to speak strength back into us!
Let us say YES to Him! Knowing He has given us everything we need that pertains to life and godliness!
PRAYER: Father, You truly are amazing. Your plans are sooooooo big. Fill us with You strength. Fill us with courage. Help us to remember it's not by our might, or by our power, but by Your Spirit we will do all things. Fill us with Your presence and shower us with Your Favor! Fulfill all of Your Plans for our life. We say YES to You! In Jesus Name, amen.
"...I am overcome with anguish because of the vision, my lord, and I am helpless. How can I, your servant, talk with you, my lord? My strength is gone and I can hardly breathe." NIV
As of late, God keeps bringing me back to the life of Daniel. I guess because I can relate so much to how he feels in this passage of Scripture. It's not that anything is wrong...it's that what God has shown me is so big!
When Daniel prayed this prayer, he had just seen God's vision. The vision overpowered Daniel's cognitive ability to comprehend just how awesome God's plans were. He couldn't understand the whole picture...he felt as if all of his strength was gone...to the point he could hardly breathe. The weight of what had been revealed was so enormous that he couldn't take it all in.
That's where I am.
God is revealing a vision for my life and ministry that supersedes my greatest imaginations. He's opening opportunities for ministry in over 7 different countries...and His vision of world missions and ministry opportunities are so BIG that sometimes it just takes my breath away. I feel as if I can hardly breathe. I feel as if I don't even know how to speak.
I start wondering How? When? With Who? Why?...But mostly HOW & WHEN!
Perhaps you are experiencing the same? Do you find yourself trying to FIGURE it ALL out? Ever wonder how God's call is going to fit with all the other pieces?
Hear God's promises...
Jeremiah 29:11, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." NIV
Isaiah 43:18-19, "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland." NIV
Isaiah 40:28-31, "Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." NIV
God fulfills His promises; our job is to rest and allow Him to fill us with strength. When we are weak He will make us strong. We need to position ourselves to hear His voice and tell Him how we feel...and then...like Daniel allow Him to speak strength back into us!
Let us say YES to Him! Knowing He has given us everything we need that pertains to life and godliness!
PRAYER: Father, You truly are amazing. Your plans are sooooooo big. Fill us with You strength. Fill us with courage. Help us to remember it's not by our might, or by our power, but by Your Spirit we will do all things. Fill us with Your presence and shower us with Your Favor! Fulfill all of Your Plans for our life. We say YES to You! In Jesus Name, amen.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Be Still and BREATHE!
I heard a story of two men who competed in an all-day wood chopping contest. One man worked very hard, stopping only for a brief lunch break. The other man ate a leisurely lunch and took several breaks throughout the day.
At the end of the day, the challenger was surprised and annoyed to find that the other fellow had chopped substantially more wood than he had.
"I don't get it," he said. "Every time I checked, you were taking a rest, yet you chopped more wood than I did."
"But you didn't notice," said the winning woodsman, "that I was sharpening my ax when I sat down to rest." (http://www.sermonillustrations.com/a-z/r/rest.htm)
Today, as I thought of all the tasks I needed to do, God stopped me with this verse.
Psalm 46:10,"Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." NIV
And so, I simply did what it said. I stopped. I breathed. My mind rested. Instead of focusing on all my fears, struggles, and the options demanding decisions...I focused on God's glory, His power, and His promises.
I encourage you to try it. For just a moment, stop the noise. Block out all the outside distractions. Quiet the demands pressing for your attention...And simply be still!
Go on. Take a breath. Breathe in...breathe out. Hahhhhhhhhhhhh! Now think of Who God is. Imagine Him standing before you. Imagine Him with His hands outstretched toward you.
He says, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." (Matthew 11:28-29, NIV)
"Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior." (Isaiah 43:1-3, NIV)
As, I meditate on God's goodness, on Who He is, on His promises...my troubles seem smaller...my burdens lift...my fears subside. God is infinite. His wisdom and power surpass our greatest efforts...and in a second He does the impossible.
Join with me today; practice resting in His Presence; know He is faithful and will do what He has promised. Let's allow God to fill us again with His presence and "sharpen our ax".
Prayer: Father we know that faith follows obedience. As You speak...we will obey. Help us learn again, to simply say, here am I Lord, send me. Where you lead us we will follow. Fill us with peace, comfort, and confidence that You will work all things together for our good. If we get overwhelmed or distracted, remind us to focus on You NOT our problems. Thank You God that You can be trusted! In Jesus name we pray, amen!
At the end of the day, the challenger was surprised and annoyed to find that the other fellow had chopped substantially more wood than he had.
"I don't get it," he said. "Every time I checked, you were taking a rest, yet you chopped more wood than I did."
"But you didn't notice," said the winning woodsman, "that I was sharpening my ax when I sat down to rest." (http://www.sermonillustrations.com/a-z/r/rest.htm)
Today, as I thought of all the tasks I needed to do, God stopped me with this verse.
Psalm 46:10,"Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." NIV
And so, I simply did what it said. I stopped. I breathed. My mind rested. Instead of focusing on all my fears, struggles, and the options demanding decisions...I focused on God's glory, His power, and His promises.
I encourage you to try it. For just a moment, stop the noise. Block out all the outside distractions. Quiet the demands pressing for your attention...And simply be still!
Go on. Take a breath. Breathe in...breathe out. Hahhhhhhhhhhhh! Now think of Who God is. Imagine Him standing before you. Imagine Him with His hands outstretched toward you.
He says, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." (Matthew 11:28-29, NIV)
"Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior." (Isaiah 43:1-3, NIV)
As, I meditate on God's goodness, on Who He is, on His promises...my troubles seem smaller...my burdens lift...my fears subside. God is infinite. His wisdom and power surpass our greatest efforts...and in a second He does the impossible.
Join with me today; practice resting in His Presence; know He is faithful and will do what He has promised. Let's allow God to fill us again with His presence and "sharpen our ax".
Prayer: Father we know that faith follows obedience. As You speak...we will obey. Help us learn again, to simply say, here am I Lord, send me. Where you lead us we will follow. Fill us with peace, comfort, and confidence that You will work all things together for our good. If we get overwhelmed or distracted, remind us to focus on You NOT our problems. Thank You God that You can be trusted! In Jesus name we pray, amen!
Monday, April 26, 2010
What's Your Excuse?
Luke 9:61-62, "Still another said, "I will follow you, Lord; but first let me go back and say good-bye to my family." Jesus replied, "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God." NIV
When I read this verse as a kid I always wondered why Jesus wouldn't let the person go back and say good-bye; it didn't make sense to me. Was Jesus calloused toward having earthly relationships? Or was He emphasizing something far more important than the specifics of this one verse?
As I've gotten older and more aware of my own weaknesses I realize why Jesus said what He said. His response emphasized the cost of following after Him. Within His exchange there are far greater questions being asked, like: Are we willing to lay it all on the line? Family? Friends? Status? Finances? Reputation?
Recently, I evaluated what holds me back from pressing forward?
It's easy to say, "I'll follow You Lord whatever the cost." And declare, "Though others deny You, I NEVER will."
Yet as I evaluate at my commitment; I observe subtle thoughts, offering seemingly legitimate excuses of why "Now" is NOT the time to step forward into God's call.
Jesus wasn't calloused to family members saying good-bye to one another; He's saying..."Don't give excuses. There are always reasons to look back. There are always seemingly "legitimate" excuses trying to keep us from pressing forward... SO, DON'T LOOK BACK!"
The most important task for believers is to position ourselves to "Hear" what God says for us to do...and then...SIMPLY DO IT! No excuses. No "just a minute". But NOW!
Let me get really transparent! God is calling me to do short term missionary outreaches in a few different countries. Financially...I don't have the money! BUT...I know what God is saying...I know where He is leading...And rather than offering excuses...I'm stepping forward, trusting He will supply! Would you please pray for me? I need to raise $5,000 to cover 2 immediate ministry expenses! I will be traveling to KIEV in June and my husband will be ministering in INDIA in 2 weeks. Would you please pray God supplies for every need and that we fulfill the tasks He's called us to.
And in your own life, I encourage you to evaluate: What excuses you entertain? Are you too old? Too young? Too rich? Too Poor? Do you lack abilities? Do you lack the resources necessary? Do you have just one more thing you need to do and then...? What keeps you from stepping forward?
Listen to God's promise to you...Isaiah 46:3-4,"Listen to me...all you whom I have upheld since you were conceived, and have carried since your birth. Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you." NIV
Listen to what God is saying...He will fulfill all of His promises to you! You are NOT alone!
PRAYER: Father, we ask that You lead us clearly. Let us know Your will. And then Father, we ask that You empower and equip us to fulfill all You have spoken. We don't want to look back! We want to press forward! Help us to not give excuses! In Jesus name, amen.
When I read this verse as a kid I always wondered why Jesus wouldn't let the person go back and say good-bye; it didn't make sense to me. Was Jesus calloused toward having earthly relationships? Or was He emphasizing something far more important than the specifics of this one verse?
As I've gotten older and more aware of my own weaknesses I realize why Jesus said what He said. His response emphasized the cost of following after Him. Within His exchange there are far greater questions being asked, like: Are we willing to lay it all on the line? Family? Friends? Status? Finances? Reputation?
Recently, I evaluated what holds me back from pressing forward?
It's easy to say, "I'll follow You Lord whatever the cost." And declare, "Though others deny You, I NEVER will."
Yet as I evaluate at my commitment; I observe subtle thoughts, offering seemingly legitimate excuses of why "Now" is NOT the time to step forward into God's call.
Jesus wasn't calloused to family members saying good-bye to one another; He's saying..."Don't give excuses. There are always reasons to look back. There are always seemingly "legitimate" excuses trying to keep us from pressing forward... SO, DON'T LOOK BACK!"
The most important task for believers is to position ourselves to "Hear" what God says for us to do...and then...SIMPLY DO IT! No excuses. No "just a minute". But NOW!
Let me get really transparent! God is calling me to do short term missionary outreaches in a few different countries. Financially...I don't have the money! BUT...I know what God is saying...I know where He is leading...And rather than offering excuses...I'm stepping forward, trusting He will supply! Would you please pray for me? I need to raise $5,000 to cover 2 immediate ministry expenses! I will be traveling to KIEV in June and my husband will be ministering in INDIA in 2 weeks. Would you please pray God supplies for every need and that we fulfill the tasks He's called us to.
And in your own life, I encourage you to evaluate: What excuses you entertain? Are you too old? Too young? Too rich? Too Poor? Do you lack abilities? Do you lack the resources necessary? Do you have just one more thing you need to do and then...? What keeps you from stepping forward?
Listen to God's promise to you...Isaiah 46:3-4,"Listen to me...all you whom I have upheld since you were conceived, and have carried since your birth. Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you." NIV
Listen to what God is saying...He will fulfill all of His promises to you! You are NOT alone!
PRAYER: Father, we ask that You lead us clearly. Let us know Your will. And then Father, we ask that You empower and equip us to fulfill all You have spoken. We don't want to look back! We want to press forward! Help us to not give excuses! In Jesus name, amen.
Friday, April 23, 2010
The KEY to Distinguishing God's Voice from Our Own
Isaiah 30:21, "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." (NIV)
Distinguishing God's voice can be tough. So today, we will end with where we began. The most important key to discerning God's voice from our own...As mentioned on Monday...The key to discerning God’s voice from our own is a living, intimate, relationship with Him.
All throughout Scripture, God speaks to His people. In John chapter ten God promises, His sheep will recognize His voice…will follow His voice…and will NOT follow a stranger’s voice. He assures us He knows His sheep and His sheep know Him. That’s good news! According to this passage of Scripture we will sense God’s voice and be able to distinguish it from our own. We don’t need to live fearful of messing up.
The more intimate our relationship with God is, the more certain we discern His voice from our own. Our relationship with Him makes the difference.
Think about your closest relationship. What sets it apart from every other? My closest relationship is with my husband. Over the years we’ve exchanged our deepest secrets and learned one another’s idiosyncrasies. We know each other so well; we discern each other’s thoughts without speaking a word. How can we do this? —relationship.
(The phone rang.) Hello? I said.
“Hello. Is this chulie?” The slight foreign accent made me giggle. I love my husband. He’s such a jokester. Sometimes he’ll try to trick me. And pretend to be from another country.
“This is she.” I played along.
“Chulie, da rason fare me call is I’d like ta know if yee’d like ta go on a det wit me?”
I love when Greg playfully calls, disguising his voice. He’s pretty good at accents. When we first dated he actually tricked me a couple of times while pretending to be a telemarketer; now, it’s not that easy for him. Why?—because over the years I’ve learned his voice.
The same is true in our relationship with God. We can’t formulate a method to hear God’s voice. We either share a relationship with Him or we don’t. The more time we spend with God, the easier we recognize His voice. At first it may be difficult to tell His voice apart from our own, but the closer our relationship with God grows the easier we discern His voice from ours.
If we truly want to identify God’s voice, we must live in a relationship with Him. There are no short cuts! Time spent in His presence, reading His Word, and listening for His voice is vital to recognizing Him when He speaks. The more we read His word, the more we understand His character. The more we acknowledge and experience His character, the easier we recognize His voice. The more we experience His voice the easier we discern it from our own. And sometimes, that just takes time.
Commit to spending time with Him...He longs to speak with you!
PRAYER: Father, we truly want to know You and recognize Your voice. Help us NOT to be distracted by all the things that call for our attention. Help us to seek You first. You said we would find You when we seek You with all our heart. Lord help us to do that! We love You. In Jesus Name, AMEN!
Distinguishing God's voice can be tough. So today, we will end with where we began. The most important key to discerning God's voice from our own...As mentioned on Monday...The key to discerning God’s voice from our own is a living, intimate, relationship with Him.
All throughout Scripture, God speaks to His people. In John chapter ten God promises, His sheep will recognize His voice…will follow His voice…and will NOT follow a stranger’s voice. He assures us He knows His sheep and His sheep know Him. That’s good news! According to this passage of Scripture we will sense God’s voice and be able to distinguish it from our own. We don’t need to live fearful of messing up.
The more intimate our relationship with God is, the more certain we discern His voice from our own. Our relationship with Him makes the difference.
Think about your closest relationship. What sets it apart from every other? My closest relationship is with my husband. Over the years we’ve exchanged our deepest secrets and learned one another’s idiosyncrasies. We know each other so well; we discern each other’s thoughts without speaking a word. How can we do this? —relationship.
(The phone rang.) Hello? I said.
“Hello. Is this chulie?” The slight foreign accent made me giggle. I love my husband. He’s such a jokester. Sometimes he’ll try to trick me. And pretend to be from another country.
“This is she.” I played along.
“Chulie, da rason fare me call is I’d like ta know if yee’d like ta go on a det wit me?”
I love when Greg playfully calls, disguising his voice. He’s pretty good at accents. When we first dated he actually tricked me a couple of times while pretending to be a telemarketer; now, it’s not that easy for him. Why?—because over the years I’ve learned his voice.
The same is true in our relationship with God. We can’t formulate a method to hear God’s voice. We either share a relationship with Him or we don’t. The more time we spend with God, the easier we recognize His voice. At first it may be difficult to tell His voice apart from our own, but the closer our relationship with God grows the easier we discern His voice from ours.
If we truly want to identify God’s voice, we must live in a relationship with Him. There are no short cuts! Time spent in His presence, reading His Word, and listening for His voice is vital to recognizing Him when He speaks. The more we read His word, the more we understand His character. The more we acknowledge and experience His character, the easier we recognize His voice. The more we experience His voice the easier we discern it from our own. And sometimes, that just takes time.
Commit to spending time with Him...He longs to speak with you!
PRAYER: Father, we truly want to know You and recognize Your voice. Help us NOT to be distracted by all the things that call for our attention. Help us to seek You first. You said we would find You when we seek You with all our heart. Lord help us to do that! We love You. In Jesus Name, AMEN!
Thursday, April 22, 2010
#4 God's Voice Brings Peace...Not Fear
A great way we discern God’s voice from our own is by asking: How does it feel in your "gut"? Does the thought or feeling fill you with peace or unrest? Even in the face of great danger, peace guards our heart when Christ has spoken.
Isaiah 55:10-12 says, “As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sewer and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace…” NIV
God’s peace always accompanies God’s leading and helps us to distinguish His voice from our own. The absence of peace is the absence of God’s direction. Our situations aren’t always pleasant but God’s peace always accompanies His voice.
About six years ago, God led me to give up my six figure income and do the work of an evangelist!
“You have been spent for many things, but now I want you to be spent for me. I want you to put your hand to my task.” I couldn’t shake the thought, spoken to my mind.
His peace soothed all of my questions except one; what would my husband think?
I knew I needed to talk to Greg; finally mustered up the courage. “Greg, I have to talk with you.”
“Sure, babe; what’s up?”
“I’ve been praying and feel like God wants me to quit my job.” I winced, waiting to see if he thought I lost my mind.
Greg smiled, “Me too.”
“What? You’re kidding me; really” I replied.
“I’ve known now, for about six months, but was waiting for God to tell you; I knew if I were the one to tell you, you might reject the idea.” Greg said grinning, happy that I had heard God’s voice.
God moves us in peace. In tough times we need to hold our ground and cling to God’s promises, knowing that the peace of God is not contingent on our circumstances rather our peace is a result of our position in Christ.
At times our voice tends to worry about “the how’s” “the when’s” and “the why’s” But God always leads with peace, emphasizing “I will do it…in just the right time…because I promised to.”
Jesus promised, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27, NIV)
God’s peace is everlasting and accompanies His voice. If the voice or message lacks peace or conflicts with the Word of God, it's not His voice.
PRAYER: Father fill us with Your peace. Help us to know and recognize Your voice. When we are weighted between decisions and aren't sure where You are leading us, help us to remember You lead us with peace. Empower us to glorify You in this day.
In Jesus name, amen.
Isaiah 55:10-12 says, “As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sewer and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace…” NIV
God’s peace always accompanies God’s leading and helps us to distinguish His voice from our own. The absence of peace is the absence of God’s direction. Our situations aren’t always pleasant but God’s peace always accompanies His voice.
About six years ago, God led me to give up my six figure income and do the work of an evangelist!
“You have been spent for many things, but now I want you to be spent for me. I want you to put your hand to my task.” I couldn’t shake the thought, spoken to my mind.
His peace soothed all of my questions except one; what would my husband think?
I knew I needed to talk to Greg; finally mustered up the courage. “Greg, I have to talk with you.”
“Sure, babe; what’s up?”
“I’ve been praying and feel like God wants me to quit my job.” I winced, waiting to see if he thought I lost my mind.
Greg smiled, “Me too.”
“What? You’re kidding me; really” I replied.
“I’ve known now, for about six months, but was waiting for God to tell you; I knew if I were the one to tell you, you might reject the idea.” Greg said grinning, happy that I had heard God’s voice.
God moves us in peace. In tough times we need to hold our ground and cling to God’s promises, knowing that the peace of God is not contingent on our circumstances rather our peace is a result of our position in Christ.
At times our voice tends to worry about “the how’s” “the when’s” and “the why’s” But God always leads with peace, emphasizing “I will do it…in just the right time…because I promised to.”
Jesus promised, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27, NIV)
God’s peace is everlasting and accompanies His voice. If the voice or message lacks peace or conflicts with the Word of God, it's not His voice.
PRAYER: Father fill us with Your peace. Help us to know and recognize Your voice. When we are weighted between decisions and aren't sure where You are leading us, help us to remember You lead us with peace. Empower us to glorify You in this day.
In Jesus name, amen.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
God's Voice is Certain--Not Confused
Tone #3: God’s voice is certain—Not Confused
I love the story of Noah in Genesis 6:13-19, “So God said to Noah, "I am going to put an end to all people, for the earth is filled with violence because of them. I am surely going to destroy both them and the earth. So make yourself an ark of cypress wood; make rooms in it and coat it with pitch inside and out. This is how you are to build it: The ark is to be 450 feet long, 75 feet wide and 45 feet high. Make a roof for it and finish the ark to within 18 inches of the top. Put a door in the side of the ark and make lower, middle and upper decks. I am going to bring floodwaters on the earth to destroy all life under the heavens, every creature that has the breath of life in it. Everything on earth will perish. But I will establish my covenant with you, and you will enter the ark — you and your sons and your wife and your sons' wives with you.” (NIV)
God provides Noah with specification instructions about the ark’s construction, a detailed plan of what will happen, and instructions of what to fill the boat with! Amazing!
Similarly, when God speaks to us, His voice leads us toward something. It isn't idle or wavering. It’s not confused. God’s voice is clear, concise, and certain. For example, my voice might sound like this, "Maybe if I do this...then this will happen." God's voice sounds more like..."Go do this...and this will be the result."
True, sometimes God tells us to choose, but even that is specific.
One of the most beautiful thoughts God shared with me occurred during a season when I needed to make a decision. As I weighed the pros and cons and tried to listen to what God said, I heard nothing. I prayed harder. The harder I prayed the more silent He became, or so it seemed. Finally, frustrated, I through my lists away.
“I can’t figure this out. Lord, what am I suppose to do?” I cried out.
The Lord quickly responded, “Julie, what brings you joy?”
What? I thought.
“What do you mean, what brings me joy?” I asked.
Instantly I thought of Abram and Lot. In Genesis thirteen the two men were parting ways and instead of rightfully declaring which land Abram wanted, He let Lot choose. “The LORD said to Abram after Lot had parted from him, "Lift up your eyes from where you are and look north and south, east and west. All the land that you see I will give to you and your offspring forever. I will make your offspring like the dust of the earth, so that if anyone could count the dust, then your offspring could be counted. Go, walk through the length and breadth of the land, for I am giving it to you."
It didn’t matter which direction Abram went, God was going to bless Him. The direction and land weren’t the significant factor; God’s favor on Abram was what mattered.
God wanted me to enjoy life. He gave me permission to choose what I wanted to do. I couldn’t go wrong. The choices in front of me were all noble; all of them had great worth; there was no “right” or “wrong” answer. I didn’t need to worry about missing God or messing up.
My choice was no more complicated than what I wanted to do. If my children wanted to play a sport and asked me which one they should play; I’d say choose. I wouldn’t care which they played; I’d just want them to enjoy what they did.
God gave me full permission and said, “Choose what you want and I will bless you; my favor is on you.” Suddenly I sensed His direction. My heart felt peaceful and my choice became simple.
So, God gives direction. If we don’t hear Him immediately it doesn’t mean He doesn’t have an answer. His voice is not uncertain or confused. He eventually prompts our thoughts to bring us clarity and conviction. The important thing is to not make a knee-jerk reaction out of frustration or to take matters into our own hands. We need to wait for the Lord and pray for His direction. When it seems like He’s silent, we can ask for other ways of thinking about our situations. When we’ve made a muddled mess of it, we can ask for help. God will clear up our murky thoughts and point us in the right direction with His peace.
PRAYER: Father, help us to know Your voice. Help us to recognize Your will for our life. Fill us with peace. Bless us with Your favor. Empower us with Your Presence. Thank You God that You know all things and that if we lack wisdom we can ask from You and You will give us wisdom. Help us to hear your clear, certain, unwavering voice. In Jesus name we pray, amen!
PS. As a reminder, join with me on my BLOG TALK RADIO PROGRAM TODAY at 2PM EST at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/cwa-radio/2010/04/21/his-love-extended
I love the story of Noah in Genesis 6:13-19, “So God said to Noah, "I am going to put an end to all people, for the earth is filled with violence because of them. I am surely going to destroy both them and the earth. So make yourself an ark of cypress wood; make rooms in it and coat it with pitch inside and out. This is how you are to build it: The ark is to be 450 feet long, 75 feet wide and 45 feet high. Make a roof for it and finish the ark to within 18 inches of the top. Put a door in the side of the ark and make lower, middle and upper decks. I am going to bring floodwaters on the earth to destroy all life under the heavens, every creature that has the breath of life in it. Everything on earth will perish. But I will establish my covenant with you, and you will enter the ark — you and your sons and your wife and your sons' wives with you.” (NIV)
God provides Noah with specification instructions about the ark’s construction, a detailed plan of what will happen, and instructions of what to fill the boat with! Amazing!
Similarly, when God speaks to us, His voice leads us toward something. It isn't idle or wavering. It’s not confused. God’s voice is clear, concise, and certain. For example, my voice might sound like this, "Maybe if I do this...then this will happen." God's voice sounds more like..."Go do this...and this will be the result."
True, sometimes God tells us to choose, but even that is specific.
One of the most beautiful thoughts God shared with me occurred during a season when I needed to make a decision. As I weighed the pros and cons and tried to listen to what God said, I heard nothing. I prayed harder. The harder I prayed the more silent He became, or so it seemed. Finally, frustrated, I through my lists away.
“I can’t figure this out. Lord, what am I suppose to do?” I cried out.
The Lord quickly responded, “Julie, what brings you joy?”
What? I thought.
“What do you mean, what brings me joy?” I asked.
Instantly I thought of Abram and Lot. In Genesis thirteen the two men were parting ways and instead of rightfully declaring which land Abram wanted, He let Lot choose. “The LORD said to Abram after Lot had parted from him, "Lift up your eyes from where you are and look north and south, east and west. All the land that you see I will give to you and your offspring forever. I will make your offspring like the dust of the earth, so that if anyone could count the dust, then your offspring could be counted. Go, walk through the length and breadth of the land, for I am giving it to you."
It didn’t matter which direction Abram went, God was going to bless Him. The direction and land weren’t the significant factor; God’s favor on Abram was what mattered.
God wanted me to enjoy life. He gave me permission to choose what I wanted to do. I couldn’t go wrong. The choices in front of me were all noble; all of them had great worth; there was no “right” or “wrong” answer. I didn’t need to worry about missing God or messing up.
My choice was no more complicated than what I wanted to do. If my children wanted to play a sport and asked me which one they should play; I’d say choose. I wouldn’t care which they played; I’d just want them to enjoy what they did.
God gave me full permission and said, “Choose what you want and I will bless you; my favor is on you.” Suddenly I sensed His direction. My heart felt peaceful and my choice became simple.
So, God gives direction. If we don’t hear Him immediately it doesn’t mean He doesn’t have an answer. His voice is not uncertain or confused. He eventually prompts our thoughts to bring us clarity and conviction. The important thing is to not make a knee-jerk reaction out of frustration or to take matters into our own hands. We need to wait for the Lord and pray for His direction. When it seems like He’s silent, we can ask for other ways of thinking about our situations. When we’ve made a muddled mess of it, we can ask for help. God will clear up our murky thoughts and point us in the right direction with His peace.
PRAYER: Father, help us to know Your voice. Help us to recognize Your will for our life. Fill us with peace. Bless us with Your favor. Empower us with Your Presence. Thank You God that You know all things and that if we lack wisdom we can ask from You and You will give us wisdom. Help us to hear your clear, certain, unwavering voice. In Jesus name we pray, amen!
PS. As a reminder, join with me on my BLOG TALK RADIO PROGRAM TODAY at 2PM EST at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/cwa-radio/2010/04/21/his-love-extended
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Tip # 2 For discerning God's voice from our own!
Isaiah 42:5, "This is what God the LORD says — he who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and all that comes out of it, who gives breath to its people, and life to those who walk on it..." NIV
God gives breath to His people and life to those who walk on earth! So in short God's words are life giving!
Tone #2 God’s voice is encouraging— God’s Voice is Not Derogatory
I’ve watched so many people step out to fulfill the design God created for their life, but half way there, they fizzle out. I’ve heard them say comments like, “I can’t do this.” “I’ll never be able to.” “The battle is just too tough.” “What was I thinking!" and the lists go on.
Boy have I ever battled with these feelings! Somewhere in my jourey of fulfilling God's direction for my life I struggle with whether or not God really called me to the task at hand, wonder if He picked the wrong person, and sulk for a short period of time...until GOD overpowers the voices playing around in my head with HIS.
Our voice often whispers reflections of our inadequacies, and focuses on our abilities or the lack thereof. But when God speaks, He encourages and reminds us of, who we are in Him. The nature and tone of God’s voice focuses on Who He is and reminds us of where our hope stems from.
I have a dear friend who was a single mother for years to a very head strong teenage boy. As we ate lunch the other day she shared with me how God encouraged her in her parenting.
“Oh Julie, my son was so head-strong” she said. “I remember one day my son had just gotten home and immediately we got in a fight. He yelled and left in a fit of anger. I was so mad. I could feel my heart begin to palpitate. My doctor told me that my growing heart palpitations were the result of the adrenaline my body was producing, that I needed to walk off because my heart didn’t know what to do with the extra adrenaline. So after he walked out, I put on my walking shoes and left too. I went tromping off, letting God know exactly how I felt. I told Him, that’s it; I’m sending my son back to His father. I don’t care if he doesn’t want to go; I don’t care if his father wants him or not. I’m done.” “Finally I got quiet" she said, and then God said to her, “You don’t love your son.” When she heard that she got mad and ranted again, saying, "What do you mean I don’t love my son? I’ve spent my life for him. Everything I’ve done was for him. I live for him." She said she paused again and God continued, “You don’t love your son like I love your son. You need to love him unconditionally. Trust your son to me and I will help you.” (paraphrased conversation)
You see, my friend's voice whispered defeat, fatigue, and frustration. She wanted to do things in her power and when her power was up, she was willing to take matters into her own hands and get rid of the conflict, but God’s voice whispered truth and encouragement. He reminded her of Who He was. He pointed out that she couldn’t do it on her own, but He could. He would help her.
Our voice tends to criticize or find fault with ourselves or others, God's voice nurtures and fosters growth. Our voice whispers, "You'll never achieve that..." God's voice says, "Trust me and I will make you ruler over much." Our voice says “It’s too big” God’s voice whispers, “All things are possible to those that believe.”
Even in a rebuke God points toward growth and grace. His voice is specific and certain not general and confused.
PRAYER: Father, fill us with your breath today! Breathe in fresh life to our bodies. Fill us with expectation and help us to hear Your voice!
God gives breath to His people and life to those who walk on earth! So in short God's words are life giving!
Tone #2 God’s voice is encouraging— God’s Voice is Not Derogatory
I’ve watched so many people step out to fulfill the design God created for their life, but half way there, they fizzle out. I’ve heard them say comments like, “I can’t do this.” “I’ll never be able to.” “The battle is just too tough.” “What was I thinking!" and the lists go on.
Boy have I ever battled with these feelings! Somewhere in my jourey of fulfilling God's direction for my life I struggle with whether or not God really called me to the task at hand, wonder if He picked the wrong person, and sulk for a short period of time...until GOD overpowers the voices playing around in my head with HIS.
Our voice often whispers reflections of our inadequacies, and focuses on our abilities or the lack thereof. But when God speaks, He encourages and reminds us of, who we are in Him. The nature and tone of God’s voice focuses on Who He is and reminds us of where our hope stems from.
I have a dear friend who was a single mother for years to a very head strong teenage boy. As we ate lunch the other day she shared with me how God encouraged her in her parenting.
“Oh Julie, my son was so head-strong” she said. “I remember one day my son had just gotten home and immediately we got in a fight. He yelled and left in a fit of anger. I was so mad. I could feel my heart begin to palpitate. My doctor told me that my growing heart palpitations were the result of the adrenaline my body was producing, that I needed to walk off because my heart didn’t know what to do with the extra adrenaline. So after he walked out, I put on my walking shoes and left too. I went tromping off, letting God know exactly how I felt. I told Him, that’s it; I’m sending my son back to His father. I don’t care if he doesn’t want to go; I don’t care if his father wants him or not. I’m done.” “Finally I got quiet" she said, and then God said to her, “You don’t love your son.” When she heard that she got mad and ranted again, saying, "What do you mean I don’t love my son? I’ve spent my life for him. Everything I’ve done was for him. I live for him." She said she paused again and God continued, “You don’t love your son like I love your son. You need to love him unconditionally. Trust your son to me and I will help you.” (paraphrased conversation)
You see, my friend's voice whispered defeat, fatigue, and frustration. She wanted to do things in her power and when her power was up, she was willing to take matters into her own hands and get rid of the conflict, but God’s voice whispered truth and encouragement. He reminded her of Who He was. He pointed out that she couldn’t do it on her own, but He could. He would help her.
Our voice tends to criticize or find fault with ourselves or others, God's voice nurtures and fosters growth. Our voice whispers, "You'll never achieve that..." God's voice says, "Trust me and I will make you ruler over much." Our voice says “It’s too big” God’s voice whispers, “All things are possible to those that believe.”
Even in a rebuke God points toward growth and grace. His voice is specific and certain not general and confused.
PRAYER: Father, fill us with your breath today! Breathe in fresh life to our bodies. Fill us with expectation and help us to hear Your voice!
Monday, April 19, 2010
God’s voice is Redemptive—Not Condemning
John 10:1-6, "The man who enters by the gate is the shepherd of his sheep. The watchman opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice. But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger's voice." NIV
The key to discerning God’s voice from our own is a living, intimate, relationship with Him.
People ask me all the time, “How do I know God’s speaking and that I’m not just making things up?” or “How do I truly recognize God’s voice from my own?” Each time I hear these questions, my heart aches for the person asking. I find myself wanting to offer them a simple solution that guarantees they’ll always recognize God’s voice. I remember asking these same questions at one time; I was so afraid I would mess things up. I wanted desperately to hear God’s voice but wondered how anyone could ever really know for certain they heard Him accurately. I never wanted to be guilty of saying, “God told me…” if He really hadn’t.
So, this week we will look at the "tone" of God's voice so that we can better distinguish between our voice and His.
Tone Variation #1: God’s voice is Redemptive—Not Condemning.
The other day my children ran around bickering, badgering, and belly-aching. Mommy...Joshua called me stupid...Mommy...Sommer said she hated me...MOMMY...
Well...you get the picture. After countless times of instructing them to hold one another's hands and ask for forgiveness, talking to them about what Jesus would do, and playing referee--I snapped, screamed, and slammed my door!
That was really mature. What a great example you are, Julie, I thought.
You are such a horrible mother! My thoughts and feelings weighted me with guilt and shame. I was so disappointed in how I behaved!
Heavy hearted and defeated I slumped my shoulders, crawled into my bed, pulled the covers up under my chin and prayed.
"I'm sorry Lord! Please forgive me!"
As I prayed, I felt another impression, "You need to ask your children for forgiveness."
The contrast in the voices surprised me. It's pretty easy to look at this story and recognize when I was speaking and when God was; it's not always that easy in more complicated circumstances; however, there is a truth we can establish--God's voice is redemptive not condemning.
So, if you hear in your mind "You’re a bad mom" more than likely this is a thought or impression instigated by the enemy, yourself, or voices from your past.
When God speaks, it's for correction not condemnation.
What decisions are you facing? Are you looking for answers? Do you find yourself cowering to fear, worrying about the future, concerned that "You aren't good enough for the task at hand?"
God doesn't condemn. Instead of judging yourself harshly, ask God for the truth of your situation; ask Him for direction. He is waiting to answer and His voice is "redemptive".
PRAYER: Father, help us to recognize Your voice and discern it from our own. Give us ears to hear what You are saying. We invite You to speak to us. Strengthen us and empower us to follow after You! In Jesus name, amen.
The key to discerning God’s voice from our own is a living, intimate, relationship with Him.
People ask me all the time, “How do I know God’s speaking and that I’m not just making things up?” or “How do I truly recognize God’s voice from my own?” Each time I hear these questions, my heart aches for the person asking. I find myself wanting to offer them a simple solution that guarantees they’ll always recognize God’s voice. I remember asking these same questions at one time; I was so afraid I would mess things up. I wanted desperately to hear God’s voice but wondered how anyone could ever really know for certain they heard Him accurately. I never wanted to be guilty of saying, “God told me…” if He really hadn’t.
So, this week we will look at the "tone" of God's voice so that we can better distinguish between our voice and His.
Tone Variation #1: God’s voice is Redemptive—Not Condemning.
The other day my children ran around bickering, badgering, and belly-aching. Mommy...Joshua called me stupid...Mommy...Sommer said she hated me...MOMMY...
Well...you get the picture. After countless times of instructing them to hold one another's hands and ask for forgiveness, talking to them about what Jesus would do, and playing referee--I snapped, screamed, and slammed my door!
That was really mature. What a great example you are, Julie, I thought.
You are such a horrible mother! My thoughts and feelings weighted me with guilt and shame. I was so disappointed in how I behaved!
Heavy hearted and defeated I slumped my shoulders, crawled into my bed, pulled the covers up under my chin and prayed.
"I'm sorry Lord! Please forgive me!"
As I prayed, I felt another impression, "You need to ask your children for forgiveness."
The contrast in the voices surprised me. It's pretty easy to look at this story and recognize when I was speaking and when God was; it's not always that easy in more complicated circumstances; however, there is a truth we can establish--God's voice is redemptive not condemning.
So, if you hear in your mind "You’re a bad mom" more than likely this is a thought or impression instigated by the enemy, yourself, or voices from your past.
When God speaks, it's for correction not condemnation.
What decisions are you facing? Are you looking for answers? Do you find yourself cowering to fear, worrying about the future, concerned that "You aren't good enough for the task at hand?"
God doesn't condemn. Instead of judging yourself harshly, ask God for the truth of your situation; ask Him for direction. He is waiting to answer and His voice is "redemptive".
PRAYER: Father, help us to recognize Your voice and discern it from our own. Give us ears to hear what You are saying. We invite You to speak to us. Strengthen us and empower us to follow after You! In Jesus name, amen.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Surely We Can Trust Him
C.S. Lewis once wrote, "He who has God and many other things has no more than he who has God alone."
I love the story of the widow at Zerephath in 1 Kings 17:12-16, Elijah comes to her in the midst of a famine and drought and asks her for water and bread...Listen to her reply, "As surely as the LORD your God lives," she replied, "I don't have any bread — only a handful of flour in a jar and a little oil in a jug. I am gathering a few sticks to take home and make a meal for myself and my son, that we may eat it — and die."
Now that's pretty desperate. The widow knew her resources were gone; she had noting left except a little flour and oil. In her mind, there wasn't a whole lot of hope for her future...BUT GOD spoke through Elijah to her...
"Elijah said to her, "Don't be afraid. Go home and do as you have said. But first make a small cake of bread for me from what you have and bring it to me, and then make something for yourself and your son. For this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: 'The jar of flour will not be used up and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the LORD gives rain on the land.'"
Can you imagine what went through the widow's mind? Did she instantly feel elated at the glimmer of hope? Did she think, well, what do I have to lose? Or did she think, whatever...like it really matters anyway?
Thankfully, scripture doesn't reveal the widows feelings...it's better that way. Quite honestly, how she "felt" didn't matter; her feelings didn't keep her from obeying God, and her feelings didn't keep God from doing what He said He would do.
Scripture says, "She went away and did as Elijah had told her. So there was food every day for Elijah and for the woman and her family. For the jar of flour was not used up and the jug of oil did not run dry, in keeping with the word of the LORD spoken by Elijah." NIV
What has God spoken to you about provision? What promises has He whispered about your circumstance? IN the midst of your drought... In the midst of your famine... HE is there and HE will provide. Regardless of your feelings...obey...and watch the deliverance of God! You may feel spent like Daniel and not have the strength to even talk to the Lord; you may be like the widow, down to your last bit of flour and oil...But I want to encourage you, God can fill you back up and supply for your every need. The truth is, "When you have nothing left but God, then you become aware that God is enough.(Maude Royden)"
Today, Let the reminder of the cross and the suffering Christ endured, assure you that He is with you always! His sacrifice demonstrated His love for us! Surely we can trust HIM!
PRAYER: Father help us to give even when we feel we have nothing left to give; fill us with YOUR strength! In Jesus Name, amen.
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I love the story of the widow at Zerephath in 1 Kings 17:12-16, Elijah comes to her in the midst of a famine and drought and asks her for water and bread...Listen to her reply, "As surely as the LORD your God lives," she replied, "I don't have any bread — only a handful of flour in a jar and a little oil in a jug. I am gathering a few sticks to take home and make a meal for myself and my son, that we may eat it — and die."
Now that's pretty desperate. The widow knew her resources were gone; she had noting left except a little flour and oil. In her mind, there wasn't a whole lot of hope for her future...BUT GOD spoke through Elijah to her...
"Elijah said to her, "Don't be afraid. Go home and do as you have said. But first make a small cake of bread for me from what you have and bring it to me, and then make something for yourself and your son. For this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: 'The jar of flour will not be used up and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the LORD gives rain on the land.'"
Can you imagine what went through the widow's mind? Did she instantly feel elated at the glimmer of hope? Did she think, well, what do I have to lose? Or did she think, whatever...like it really matters anyway?
Thankfully, scripture doesn't reveal the widows feelings...it's better that way. Quite honestly, how she "felt" didn't matter; her feelings didn't keep her from obeying God, and her feelings didn't keep God from doing what He said He would do.
Scripture says, "She went away and did as Elijah had told her. So there was food every day for Elijah and for the woman and her family. For the jar of flour was not used up and the jug of oil did not run dry, in keeping with the word of the LORD spoken by Elijah." NIV
What has God spoken to you about provision? What promises has He whispered about your circumstance? IN the midst of your drought... In the midst of your famine... HE is there and HE will provide. Regardless of your feelings...obey...and watch the deliverance of God! You may feel spent like Daniel and not have the strength to even talk to the Lord; you may be like the widow, down to your last bit of flour and oil...But I want to encourage you, God can fill you back up and supply for your every need. The truth is, "When you have nothing left but God, then you become aware that God is enough.(Maude Royden)"
Today, Let the reminder of the cross and the suffering Christ endured, assure you that He is with you always! His sacrifice demonstrated His love for us! Surely we can trust HIM!
PRAYER: Father help us to give even when we feel we have nothing left to give; fill us with YOUR strength! In Jesus Name, amen.
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Thursday, April 15, 2010
Getting Honest with God
Ever feel like you don't even have the power to speak, overwhelmed at your circumstances or the vision that lays ahead for you?
Sometimes the tasks at hand, the ministry God's called us to, or the simple day to day routine can cause us to stop dead in our tracks and make us feel incapable of pressing forward. Sometimes the weight of what we are "called to do" or the circumstances that God calls us to walk through paralyze us and make us feel like we can't even talk with God.
Daniel experienced this when he witnessed a vision from the Lord. Future events and what "laid" ahead made him powerless. In Daniel 10:17, he describes his feelings, "How can I, your servant, talk with you, my lord? My strength is gone and I can hardly breathe."
But the Lord doesn't leave him in that state, look what God does in verses 18-19, "Again the one who looked like a man touched me and gave me strength. "Do not be afraid, O man highly esteemed," he said. "Peace! Be strong now; be strong."
Daniel replies in verse 19, "When he spoke to me, I was strengthened and said, "Speak, my lord, since you have given me strength." NIV
Sometimes we just need to get good and honest with God...actually that's a great place to live--honest and dependant on God.
Daniel couldn't muster up the strength to even talk with God; the vision overwhelmed him; future events paralyzed him. BUT GOD didn't leave him. When Daniel cried out, God gave him strength; He spoke encouraging words to him; "Don't be afraid, O man highly esteemed" "Peace" "Be Strong now; be strong"
Whatever your circumstance, whatever your future, whatever vision or life events paralyzing you...GOD is able. A word from Him makes all the difference. When He says "Peace" the winds hush and the waters stand still. The vision may not change, and the circumstance may remain...BUT when we humble ourselves before God and say, I don't have the strength to even talk to you...He fills us with power...He speaks His words of encouragement.
David learned the art of living before the Lord; He spoke freely with Him and was known as a man after God's own heart.
Here are a few truths and prayers he prayed. Make them your prayer and declaration of faith today too.
Psalm 145:18-20, "The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them. The LORD watches over all who love him..." NIV
Ps 120:1, "I call on the LORD in my distress, and he answers me." NIV
Ps 121, "I lift up my eyes to the hills — where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip —
he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD watches over you — the LORD is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD will keep you from all harm — he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." NIV
PRAYER: Father, fill us with strength, peace, power and love. Let Your favor rest upon us...In Jesus name amen!
Sometimes the tasks at hand, the ministry God's called us to, or the simple day to day routine can cause us to stop dead in our tracks and make us feel incapable of pressing forward. Sometimes the weight of what we are "called to do" or the circumstances that God calls us to walk through paralyze us and make us feel like we can't even talk with God.
Daniel experienced this when he witnessed a vision from the Lord. Future events and what "laid" ahead made him powerless. In Daniel 10:17, he describes his feelings, "How can I, your servant, talk with you, my lord? My strength is gone and I can hardly breathe."
But the Lord doesn't leave him in that state, look what God does in verses 18-19, "Again the one who looked like a man touched me and gave me strength. "Do not be afraid, O man highly esteemed," he said. "Peace! Be strong now; be strong."
Daniel replies in verse 19, "When he spoke to me, I was strengthened and said, "Speak, my lord, since you have given me strength." NIV
Sometimes we just need to get good and honest with God...actually that's a great place to live--honest and dependant on God.
Daniel couldn't muster up the strength to even talk with God; the vision overwhelmed him; future events paralyzed him. BUT GOD didn't leave him. When Daniel cried out, God gave him strength; He spoke encouraging words to him; "Don't be afraid, O man highly esteemed" "Peace" "Be Strong now; be strong"
Whatever your circumstance, whatever your future, whatever vision or life events paralyzing you...GOD is able. A word from Him makes all the difference. When He says "Peace" the winds hush and the waters stand still. The vision may not change, and the circumstance may remain...BUT when we humble ourselves before God and say, I don't have the strength to even talk to you...He fills us with power...He speaks His words of encouragement.
David learned the art of living before the Lord; He spoke freely with Him and was known as a man after God's own heart.
Here are a few truths and prayers he prayed. Make them your prayer and declaration of faith today too.
Psalm 145:18-20, "The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them. The LORD watches over all who love him..." NIV
Ps 120:1, "I call on the LORD in my distress, and he answers me." NIV
Ps 121, "I lift up my eyes to the hills — where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip —
he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD watches over you — the LORD is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD will keep you from all harm — he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." NIV
PRAYER: Father, fill us with strength, peace, power and love. Let Your favor rest upon us...In Jesus name amen!
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
"Call on Me...And I Will Answer"
Psalm 145:18-20, "The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them. The LORD watches over all who love him..." NIV
"Did you hear the story?" Tracey asked.
"About what?" I replied.
"The interview with the man who found the little girl in the swamp."
"Was he a police officer?" another neighbor interjected.
"No, I think it was her pastor...or a friend from their church or somethin'. Anyway, (Tracey continued) He and his wife woke up that morning and he felt like God told him to follow the sunlight and he would find her...And he did...She was sitting on a log answering "What" when he called to her..."He cried out Amber"...and she said "What"..."And He'd say Amber"...And she'd say what....until he found her."
"That is so awesome!" I said.
"Yep, he said God directed him right to her." Tracey looked at me for approval.
"Well, God sure blows me away with how big He is...and how much He can do if we'll ask." I smiled.
Tracey smiled too, "Amen, I know that's true." She turned to walk to her house.
I turned and walked back to mine, smiling. Since my neighbors found out I was a Christian and that I write books and preach at conferences, they've tried to make sure I know they believe in God. :) Their conversations once covered in gossip and "colorful adjectives" now seasoned with miracles from God.
As I walked back to my house, I thanked God that the little girl was found and prayed that He would use this miracle to bring glory to His name. And as I prayed, He impressed in my mind a simple phrase, "Call on Me and I will answer you."
Which caused me to think of Peter walking on the water. I love how when Peter got distracted by the wind and started to sink, he cried out, "Lord, save me!" And immediately, Jesus reached out and saved him.
That's how simple it is. We cry out, "Help!" And God answers.
Jer 29:11-14 says, "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. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." NIV
When I hear miracles like the girl found in the alligator infested swamp, it reminds me that God still moves today. He still speaks. He still leads. And He promises in Jeremiah twenty nine that when we call upon Him...He will listen.
Isa 55:6 says, "Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near." NIV
We all have different battles, struggles, desires, and needs...yet scripture says to cast our cares upon Him, because He cares for us!
God is bigger than our circumstances...stronger than our fears...more faithful than our abilities...And HE LOVES US. So I encourage you from James 4:8-10,
PRAYER: Father we love You. Help us to live a life pleasing to You. You see our battles; fight them for us. Equip us. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit and help us to overcome. We put our trust and confidence in You! In Jesus name, amen.
"Did you hear the story?" Tracey asked.
"About what?" I replied.
"The interview with the man who found the little girl in the swamp."
"Was he a police officer?" another neighbor interjected.
"No, I think it was her pastor...or a friend from their church or somethin'. Anyway, (Tracey continued) He and his wife woke up that morning and he felt like God told him to follow the sunlight and he would find her...And he did...She was sitting on a log answering "What" when he called to her..."He cried out Amber"...and she said "What"..."And He'd say Amber"...And she'd say what....until he found her."
"That is so awesome!" I said.
"Yep, he said God directed him right to her." Tracey looked at me for approval.
"Well, God sure blows me away with how big He is...and how much He can do if we'll ask." I smiled.
Tracey smiled too, "Amen, I know that's true." She turned to walk to her house.
I turned and walked back to mine, smiling. Since my neighbors found out I was a Christian and that I write books and preach at conferences, they've tried to make sure I know they believe in God. :) Their conversations once covered in gossip and "colorful adjectives" now seasoned with miracles from God.
As I walked back to my house, I thanked God that the little girl was found and prayed that He would use this miracle to bring glory to His name. And as I prayed, He impressed in my mind a simple phrase, "Call on Me and I will answer you."
Which caused me to think of Peter walking on the water. I love how when Peter got distracted by the wind and started to sink, he cried out, "Lord, save me!" And immediately, Jesus reached out and saved him.
That's how simple it is. We cry out, "Help!" And God answers.
Jer 29:11-14 says, "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. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." NIV
When I hear miracles like the girl found in the alligator infested swamp, it reminds me that God still moves today. He still speaks. He still leads. And He promises in Jeremiah twenty nine that when we call upon Him...He will listen.
Isa 55:6 says, "Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near." NIV
We all have different battles, struggles, desires, and needs...yet scripture says to cast our cares upon Him, because He cares for us!
God is bigger than our circumstances...stronger than our fears...more faithful than our abilities...And HE LOVES US. So I encourage you from James 4:8-10,
PRAYER: Father we love You. Help us to live a life pleasing to You. You see our battles; fight them for us. Equip us. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit and help us to overcome. We put our trust and confidence in You! In Jesus name, amen.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Don't Shrink Back!
I love the quote from David Lloyd George, "There is nothing so fatal to character as half-finished tasks."
I have the tendency to step out in faith, but slowly, if I'm not careful, I allow little battles, and occasional defeat or setbacks, to throw me off my mission. Recognizing this fatal flaw, I have to spend time in God's presence, reminding myself of what He has said and what HE has promised; it's the only thing that keeps me pressing on.
Heb 10:35-39 encourages us, "...do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. For in just a very little while, "He who is coming will come and will not delay. But my righteous one will live by faith. And if he shrinks back, I will not be pleased with him." But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who believe and are saved." NIV
I want the tenacity and audacity to simply believe God's promises. I want to declare as the author of Hebrews did, "We are NOT of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who believe and are saved."
We've all heard that there are two certainties in life...death and taxes...but there are so many more; like the love of God, the desire for significance, and, unfortunately, adversity.
Jesus said in this world you will have many troubles, but take heart, I have overcome the world.
We all have battles, we all have doubts, we all face adversity...but we will overcome, triumph, and conquer...if we DON'T give up. Sometimes we may have to change the scenery, or approach the problem from a new angle; sometimes it may seem as though there is no possible solution...but if God is for us who can be against us?
I loved reading this excerpt from the diary of John Wesley...
Sunday, A.M., May 5--Preached in St. Anne's. Was asked not to come back anymore.
Sunday, P.M., May 5--Preached in St. John's. Deacons said "Get out and stay out."
Sunday, A.M., May 12--Preached in St. Jude's. Can't go back there, either.
Sunday, A.M., May 19--Preached in St. Somebody Else's. Deacons called special meeting and said I couldn't return.
Sunday, P.M., May 19--Preached on street. Kicked off street.
Sunday, A.M., May 26--Preached in meadow. Chased out of meadow as bull was turned loose during service.
Sunday, A.M., June 2--Preached out at the edge of town. Kicked off the highway.
Sunday, P.M., June 2--Afternoon, preached in a pasture. Ten thousand people came out to hear me.--John Wesley.(http://www.sermonillustrations.com/a-z/p/perseverance.htm)
WHAT is GOD calling you to? What has HE promised? HE WILL DO IT! Humble yourself before Him and He will lift you up!
PRAYER: Father, we offer our life to You. Lead us. Fill us. And cause us to glorify YOU. Let Your favor rest upon us! Help us to persevere and not grow weary in doing good! Comfort each parent concerned about their child. Heal every body fighting off disease. Bless every business and ministry represented on this blog and each follower with Your favor and provision. We thank You in advance for the answered prayers. In Jesus name, amen.
I have the tendency to step out in faith, but slowly, if I'm not careful, I allow little battles, and occasional defeat or setbacks, to throw me off my mission. Recognizing this fatal flaw, I have to spend time in God's presence, reminding myself of what He has said and what HE has promised; it's the only thing that keeps me pressing on.
Heb 10:35-39 encourages us, "...do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. For in just a very little while, "He who is coming will come and will not delay. But my righteous one will live by faith. And if he shrinks back, I will not be pleased with him." But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who believe and are saved." NIV
I want the tenacity and audacity to simply believe God's promises. I want to declare as the author of Hebrews did, "We are NOT of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who believe and are saved."
We've all heard that there are two certainties in life...death and taxes...but there are so many more; like the love of God, the desire for significance, and, unfortunately, adversity.
Jesus said in this world you will have many troubles, but take heart, I have overcome the world.
We all have battles, we all have doubts, we all face adversity...but we will overcome, triumph, and conquer...if we DON'T give up. Sometimes we may have to change the scenery, or approach the problem from a new angle; sometimes it may seem as though there is no possible solution...but if God is for us who can be against us?
I loved reading this excerpt from the diary of John Wesley...
Sunday, A.M., May 5--Preached in St. Anne's. Was asked not to come back anymore.
Sunday, P.M., May 5--Preached in St. John's. Deacons said "Get out and stay out."
Sunday, A.M., May 12--Preached in St. Jude's. Can't go back there, either.
Sunday, A.M., May 19--Preached in St. Somebody Else's. Deacons called special meeting and said I couldn't return.
Sunday, P.M., May 19--Preached on street. Kicked off street.
Sunday, A.M., May 26--Preached in meadow. Chased out of meadow as bull was turned loose during service.
Sunday, A.M., June 2--Preached out at the edge of town. Kicked off the highway.
Sunday, P.M., June 2--Afternoon, preached in a pasture. Ten thousand people came out to hear me.--John Wesley.(http://www.sermonillustrations.com/a-z/p/perseverance.htm)
WHAT is GOD calling you to? What has HE promised? HE WILL DO IT! Humble yourself before Him and He will lift you up!
PRAYER: Father, we offer our life to You. Lead us. Fill us. And cause us to glorify YOU. Let Your favor rest upon us! Help us to persevere and not grow weary in doing good! Comfort each parent concerned about their child. Heal every body fighting off disease. Bless every business and ministry represented on this blog and each follower with Your favor and provision. We thank You in advance for the answered prayers. In Jesus name, amen.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Do NOT Conform Any Longer!
Is it possible to master not practicing "external sins" and yet live powerless lives, cowering to fear, living under defeat to "impossibilities"?
Romans 12:1-2, encourages us: "Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God — this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is — his good, pleasing and perfect will. NIV
Upon my salvation, I began to master not doing "External Sins"...you know...not drinking to get drunk, not smoking, not cussing. My attention to Romans 12 verses one and two centered on NOT doing something that I knew I shouldn't do.
Recently as I read this verse (many years after salvation) the verse took on a completely different focus.
"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world" is so much more than "NOT" doing external sins.
Patterns of this world could be fear, worry, anxiety, operating in our own power, running after our own goals, living for our own agenda...and the list goes on and on. Paul emphasizes (through the anointing of the Holy Spirit) to be transformed by the renewing of your mind.
Offering our bodies as "living sacrifices" is not just controlling external sins; it includes the need for us to renew our mind from the "Internal sins" we struggle with, including what we think, and how we feel.
2 Corinthians 10:3-5 says, "For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." NIV
External sins are easy to point out and easily recognized by onlookers, but what of the private meditations of our mind...now those are the deadly ones...their obscurity slowly sucks the life from within us, attempting to kill our dreams and God-given passions.
I love David's prayer found in Psalm 19:12-14, may it be our prayer today as well,
"Forgive my hidden faults. Keep your servant also from willful sins; may they not rule over me. Then will I be blameless, innocent of great transgression. May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer." NIV
PRAYER: Father, keep us from willful sin as well as hidden faults...let our words spoken and the words we keep within be pleasing to you. Help us to change our thinking. Let every thought truly be taken captive to your cross, surrendered to YOU! Forgive us for faulty thinking. Renew our mind and let the things we hold dear "internally" align with YOU! In Jesus Name, amen.
Romans 12:1-2, encourages us: "Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God — this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is — his good, pleasing and perfect will. NIV
Upon my salvation, I began to master not doing "External Sins"...you know...not drinking to get drunk, not smoking, not cussing. My attention to Romans 12 verses one and two centered on NOT doing something that I knew I shouldn't do.
Recently as I read this verse (many years after salvation) the verse took on a completely different focus.
"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world" is so much more than "NOT" doing external sins.
Patterns of this world could be fear, worry, anxiety, operating in our own power, running after our own goals, living for our own agenda...and the list goes on and on. Paul emphasizes (through the anointing of the Holy Spirit) to be transformed by the renewing of your mind.
Offering our bodies as "living sacrifices" is not just controlling external sins; it includes the need for us to renew our mind from the "Internal sins" we struggle with, including what we think, and how we feel.
2 Corinthians 10:3-5 says, "For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." NIV
External sins are easy to point out and easily recognized by onlookers, but what of the private meditations of our mind...now those are the deadly ones...their obscurity slowly sucks the life from within us, attempting to kill our dreams and God-given passions.
I love David's prayer found in Psalm 19:12-14, may it be our prayer today as well,
"Forgive my hidden faults. Keep your servant also from willful sins; may they not rule over me. Then will I be blameless, innocent of great transgression. May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer." NIV
PRAYER: Father, keep us from willful sin as well as hidden faults...let our words spoken and the words we keep within be pleasing to you. Help us to change our thinking. Let every thought truly be taken captive to your cross, surrendered to YOU! Forgive us for faulty thinking. Renew our mind and let the things we hold dear "internally" align with YOU! In Jesus Name, amen.
Friday, April 9, 2010
No Place Left to GO? GOD Will Fight Your Battle!
Ex 14:13-14, "Moses answered the people, "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still." NIV
The Israelites were surrounded...the Red Sea in front of them...an angry Egyptian Pharaoh and troops of soldiers behind them...there was no place left to go!
So God said, pick up your swords...fight...spend all your energy...be fearful...get burned out...you're on your own so figure this whole situation out in your own power and intellect, right??? NO!!! Of course not!!! That's NOT at all what GOD said!!!
Instead, He tells Moses to stretch his staff towards The Red Sea and as Moses obeyed, GOD parted the waters!
The Israelites merely needed to watch the LORD fight for them; He provided their way of escape. Their only responsibility was to walk across the dry land God supplied.
If you're like me, I tend to pick up my sword and want to fight, to spend my energy, to momentarily cower to fear, and then try to figure out how to overcome. BUT, I'm learning to stop, listen, and pray. I'm learning that God can do it so much better than I ever could! I'm learning to TRUST and REST in God's provision...waiting for the dry land so I can march across to victory.
GOD WILL MAKE A WAY...even when The Red Sea is before us and an angry Egyptian and army camps at our back door!
Ps 46:10 encourages us to, "Be still, and know that I am God..." NIV
Being still doesn't mean we won't engage in battles. It doesn't mean that we shouldn't put forth our strongest efforts. Being still doesn't mean we aren't involved...it means we wait to hear what God says to do and then obey.
G. Campbell Morgan said, "Waiting for God is not laziness. Waiting for God is not going to sleep. Waiting for God is not the abandonment of effort. Waiting for God means, first, activity under command; second, readiness for any new command that may come; third, the ability to do nothing until the command is given."
Today, I want to remind you as Moses reminded the Israelites..."The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still." Wait for His instruction and then obey! He is more powerful than your greatest imagination...He is more amazing than your greatest revelation of Him! AND...He is with you!
PRAYER: Father give us ears to hear and hearts to obey. Fill us with strength and faith, knowing You will provide our way of escape, knowing You will fight our battles! Thank You for Your favor and provision. We put our trust in YOU! In Jesus name, AMEN!
The Israelites were surrounded...the Red Sea in front of them...an angry Egyptian Pharaoh and troops of soldiers behind them...there was no place left to go!
So God said, pick up your swords...fight...spend all your energy...be fearful...get burned out...you're on your own so figure this whole situation out in your own power and intellect, right??? NO!!! Of course not!!! That's NOT at all what GOD said!!!
Instead, He tells Moses to stretch his staff towards The Red Sea and as Moses obeyed, GOD parted the waters!
The Israelites merely needed to watch the LORD fight for them; He provided their way of escape. Their only responsibility was to walk across the dry land God supplied.
If you're like me, I tend to pick up my sword and want to fight, to spend my energy, to momentarily cower to fear, and then try to figure out how to overcome. BUT, I'm learning to stop, listen, and pray. I'm learning that God can do it so much better than I ever could! I'm learning to TRUST and REST in God's provision...waiting for the dry land so I can march across to victory.
GOD WILL MAKE A WAY...even when The Red Sea is before us and an angry Egyptian and army camps at our back door!
Ps 46:10 encourages us to, "Be still, and know that I am God..." NIV
Being still doesn't mean we won't engage in battles. It doesn't mean that we shouldn't put forth our strongest efforts. Being still doesn't mean we aren't involved...it means we wait to hear what God says to do and then obey.
G. Campbell Morgan said, "Waiting for God is not laziness. Waiting for God is not going to sleep. Waiting for God is not the abandonment of effort. Waiting for God means, first, activity under command; second, readiness for any new command that may come; third, the ability to do nothing until the command is given."
Today, I want to remind you as Moses reminded the Israelites..."The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still." Wait for His instruction and then obey! He is more powerful than your greatest imagination...He is more amazing than your greatest revelation of Him! AND...He is with you!
PRAYER: Father give us ears to hear and hearts to obey. Fill us with strength and faith, knowing You will provide our way of escape, knowing You will fight our battles! Thank You for Your favor and provision. We put our trust in YOU! In Jesus name, AMEN!
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Abraham Didn't Waver Through Unbelief!
Romans 4:18-21, "Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, "So shall your offspring be." Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead — since he was about a hundred years old — and that Sarah's womb was also dead. Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised." NIV
Almost a hundred...and as good as dead...Abraham didn't waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God! Wow. Think about it. Sometimes we read passages like this and skim right over the reality of the situation. Abraham's almost 100! Sarah's womb is way past child bearing! The future in the natural realm "ain't" lookin' so bright! But against all human hope...against all possibilities...Abraham held on to God's promise! He was FULLY persuaded that GOD had the power to do what HE promised!
What has God promised you? What has He called you too? Are you looking at His Promises or your situations?
This verse defines even more clearly OUR NEED to KNOW what GOD has said. SO THAT when IMPOSSIBILITY and circumstances scream it "ain't happenin'" we can stand our ground and NOT WAVER through unbelief...defying the odds...KNOWING GOD WILL DO WHAT HE SAID!
Today, I'm spending the day before Him. I'm going back to hold fast to HIS promises! My mountains will be moved...not because of me...not because of my abilities...not even because of my faith...BUT BECAUSE OF WHO HE IS and what HE PROMISES!
Take every thoughy of fear, doubt, disbelief and cast it far from you. Make a list of all the "Why Nots" and then tear it up, burn it, flush it down the toilet...in other words DESTROY it and press in to God.
He has great plans for you! He will establish His promises! And He will do exceeedingly above all that we could ever ask, think, or imagine!
His word declares that, He has given us EVERYTHING that we NEED that pertains to life and godliness! (2 Peter 1:3)
PRAYER: Father, You are God; we are not! Your ways are much higher than ours. So when it seems like our bodies are as good as dead...and our wombs are way past child-bearing--regarding Your Promises to us...We WILL PUT OUR TRUST IN YOU. BUT Lord, we pray You will grant us Your Favor, Your Peace, and Your Power. Fill us with Your Spirit and give us HOPE! In Jesus name, amen.
Almost a hundred...and as good as dead...Abraham didn't waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God! Wow. Think about it. Sometimes we read passages like this and skim right over the reality of the situation. Abraham's almost 100! Sarah's womb is way past child bearing! The future in the natural realm "ain't" lookin' so bright! But against all human hope...against all possibilities...Abraham held on to God's promise! He was FULLY persuaded that GOD had the power to do what HE promised!
What has God promised you? What has He called you too? Are you looking at His Promises or your situations?
This verse defines even more clearly OUR NEED to KNOW what GOD has said. SO THAT when IMPOSSIBILITY and circumstances scream it "ain't happenin'" we can stand our ground and NOT WAVER through unbelief...defying the odds...KNOWING GOD WILL DO WHAT HE SAID!
Today, I'm spending the day before Him. I'm going back to hold fast to HIS promises! My mountains will be moved...not because of me...not because of my abilities...not even because of my faith...BUT BECAUSE OF WHO HE IS and what HE PROMISES!
Take every thoughy of fear, doubt, disbelief and cast it far from you. Make a list of all the "Why Nots" and then tear it up, burn it, flush it down the toilet...in other words DESTROY it and press in to God.
He has great plans for you! He will establish His promises! And He will do exceeedingly above all that we could ever ask, think, or imagine!
His word declares that, He has given us EVERYTHING that we NEED that pertains to life and godliness! (2 Peter 1:3)
PRAYER: Father, You are God; we are not! Your ways are much higher than ours. So when it seems like our bodies are as good as dead...and our wombs are way past child-bearing--regarding Your Promises to us...We WILL PUT OUR TRUST IN YOU. BUT Lord, we pray You will grant us Your Favor, Your Peace, and Your Power. Fill us with Your Spirit and give us HOPE! In Jesus name, amen.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Don't Give Up!
"Don't Give Up!"..."C'mon you can do it."..."Just one more."...
And then...FINALLY...the welcomed cries of our newborn baby girl.
Though ten years have passed, I can still remember the grueling twenty one hours of labor...the fatigue of my body...the emotional release of tears at her birth. I'm not sure why labor has to be so tough or why we have to face so many battles in life; BUT, what I do know is we can't give up!
As I read Romans chapter 8 again this morning, verses 31-33 caught my attention:
"What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all — how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?" NIV
I know what comes against me: feelings of inadequacy, second guessing, bank accounts, bills, responsibilities, short-comings, doubt, fear, questions about the future...and the list can go on an on...BUT...compare each of these adversaries to God...and it's no contest! I know I have nothing to fear; God establishes my security. IF GOD IS FOR US (and He is) then nothing can stop us! Jesus, Himself, intercedes for us. (Romans 8:34)
So, if we can just keep our mind focused on the truth, we will put to death any fears or thoughts that oppose the truth of God's Word. His Word declares that we are MORE than conquerors through HIM! (Romans 8:37)
We are not alone, and nothing can separate us from His love. Romans 8:38-39 says, "...neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." NIV
Don't cower. Don't give up. Your battles will only make you stronger. Galatians 6:8-10 promises that, "...we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." NIV
You've heard the old cliché', "It's always darkest before the dawn." Personally, I have never stayed up that late or got up that early to check the validity of that statement...What I can say, is that the 20th and a half hour into labor...I had never felt more tired or exhausted. BUT "My HOPE of holding my baby girl" compelled me to push one more time and breathe with purpose.
What has God called you to? Is it pretty dark where you are? Has your painful labor left you worn out? Let me encourage you, as my husband did me some 10 years ago, in my hospital room, "Don't Give Up!"..."C'mon you can do it."..."Just one more."
1 Cor 10:13 promises us, "No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it." NIV
PRAYER: Father, we need you. Birth life into us. Provide for our every concern. Empower us to live for You and bring You glory. Impart Your truth into our minds and tear down any faulty thinking. We put our HOPE in You. Fill us with laughter and joy and peace we pray, in Jesus name, amen.
And then...FINALLY...the welcomed cries of our newborn baby girl.
Though ten years have passed, I can still remember the grueling twenty one hours of labor...the fatigue of my body...the emotional release of tears at her birth. I'm not sure why labor has to be so tough or why we have to face so many battles in life; BUT, what I do know is we can't give up!
As I read Romans chapter 8 again this morning, verses 31-33 caught my attention:
"What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all — how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?" NIV
I know what comes against me: feelings of inadequacy, second guessing, bank accounts, bills, responsibilities, short-comings, doubt, fear, questions about the future...and the list can go on an on...BUT...compare each of these adversaries to God...and it's no contest! I know I have nothing to fear; God establishes my security. IF GOD IS FOR US (and He is) then nothing can stop us! Jesus, Himself, intercedes for us. (Romans 8:34)
So, if we can just keep our mind focused on the truth, we will put to death any fears or thoughts that oppose the truth of God's Word. His Word declares that we are MORE than conquerors through HIM! (Romans 8:37)
We are not alone, and nothing can separate us from His love. Romans 8:38-39 says, "...neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." NIV
Don't cower. Don't give up. Your battles will only make you stronger. Galatians 6:8-10 promises that, "...we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." NIV
You've heard the old cliché', "It's always darkest before the dawn." Personally, I have never stayed up that late or got up that early to check the validity of that statement...What I can say, is that the 20th and a half hour into labor...I had never felt more tired or exhausted. BUT "My HOPE of holding my baby girl" compelled me to push one more time and breathe with purpose.
What has God called you to? Is it pretty dark where you are? Has your painful labor left you worn out? Let me encourage you, as my husband did me some 10 years ago, in my hospital room, "Don't Give Up!"..."C'mon you can do it."..."Just one more."
1 Cor 10:13 promises us, "No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it." NIV
PRAYER: Father, we need you. Birth life into us. Provide for our every concern. Empower us to live for You and bring You glory. Impart Your truth into our minds and tear down any faulty thinking. We put our HOPE in You. Fill us with laughter and joy and peace we pray, in Jesus name, amen.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
The "Promised" Land Awaits...(even when you don't have a road map)
Hebrews 11:8--
"By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going." NIV
Again, the life of Abraham resonates with my own!
God calls, encouraging us to go forth and possess the land...to move from familiarity into the unknown...to leave the place of slavery into the promise land.
I know He will provide...He's never let me down...yet my flesh begs to know where? When? How? Give me the details. Let me know each step. Help me to understand each trial...make sense of the wanderings and the waiting.
Perhaps, Abraham shared the same questions. But regardless of the unknown, Abraham obeyed and went! He didn't know where, when, or how...but he knew Who and what had been promised. He understood it was time...and so he stepped forward...even though he didn't know where he was going.
Personally, I'm comforted that Abraham didn't do it perfectly; like when he feared Abimelech in Genesis chapter twenty and lied saying Sarah was his wife. Yet regardless of his mistakes, God moved Abraham to his promised land. He blessed him and fulfilled His promises to him.
Where is God leading you? Are you like me; do you want to know "the details"?
I'm reminded frequently of Hebrews 11:8; God seems to challenge me with it; prompting me to answer, "Will you trust Me?" "Will you step forward in faith, and allow me to lead you even if you don't know where you're going?"
And God comforts me with, Matthew 6:31-34, "So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." NIV
Our answer to peace and direction come not in seeking "direction" or "answers" but in seeking "Him". When we seek first His kingdom and His righteousness...everything else will be there.
Spend some time today, resting in the fact that: God's got it all under control! He will provide for you! He will lead you! He will comfort you! Because that's just Who He is!
Prayer: Father, we have need of so many things; we have questions about so much. Fill us with peace. Fill us with confidence. Fill us with wisdom. Help us to honor You and to be pleasing to You. Grant us Your favor. Lead us by Your Spirit. We put our hope and faith in YOU! In Jesus name, amen.
"By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going." NIV
Again, the life of Abraham resonates with my own!
God calls, encouraging us to go forth and possess the land...to move from familiarity into the unknown...to leave the place of slavery into the promise land.
I know He will provide...He's never let me down...yet my flesh begs to know where? When? How? Give me the details. Let me know each step. Help me to understand each trial...make sense of the wanderings and the waiting.
Perhaps, Abraham shared the same questions. But regardless of the unknown, Abraham obeyed and went! He didn't know where, when, or how...but he knew Who and what had been promised. He understood it was time...and so he stepped forward...even though he didn't know where he was going.
Personally, I'm comforted that Abraham didn't do it perfectly; like when he feared Abimelech in Genesis chapter twenty and lied saying Sarah was his wife. Yet regardless of his mistakes, God moved Abraham to his promised land. He blessed him and fulfilled His promises to him.
Where is God leading you? Are you like me; do you want to know "the details"?
I'm reminded frequently of Hebrews 11:8; God seems to challenge me with it; prompting me to answer, "Will you trust Me?" "Will you step forward in faith, and allow me to lead you even if you don't know where you're going?"
And God comforts me with, Matthew 6:31-34, "So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." NIV
Our answer to peace and direction come not in seeking "direction" or "answers" but in seeking "Him". When we seek first His kingdom and His righteousness...everything else will be there.
Spend some time today, resting in the fact that: God's got it all under control! He will provide for you! He will lead you! He will comfort you! Because that's just Who He is!
Prayer: Father, we have need of so many things; we have questions about so much. Fill us with peace. Fill us with confidence. Fill us with wisdom. Help us to honor You and to be pleasing to You. Grant us Your favor. Lead us by Your Spirit. We put our hope and faith in YOU! In Jesus name, amen.
Monday, April 5, 2010
After Waiting Patiently...Abraham Received
Hebrews 6:15
"And so after waiting patiently, Abraham received what was promised." NIV
Wow. Can you imagine how Abraham felt when he found out Sarah was pregnant? Can you imagine the tears of joy that streamed down his face when he held Isaac in his hands, seeing him for the first time?...The long awaited promise finally fulfilled...All the years of second guessing, Did I really hear God right? ...All the years of refuting the enemy's lies, God didn't really mean what He said, did He? finally put to an end!
What has God promised you? Don't let go of it! Hold on to it tightly! Keep it ever before you; because if we, like Abraham, wait for it patiently, we will receive what was promised too! Hebrew 10:23 says, "Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful." NIV
When I was 22 years old, God promised me I would minister in Russia. He planted a vision that I would minister His word in many nations. Last week, He opened an amazing opportunity for me to minister in KIev. Nearly 20 years later, but the promise of God has once again proven true. God whispers His promises, and though we don't always understand His timing, one thing we can know for certain...He can be trusted. We can always put our trust and hope in Him.
We need to keep our faith in God alone, not in our abilities, not in our accomplishments, not in the achievements of our successes...BUT IN HIM. No matter how long it takes, God is faithful, and will fulfill His promises. It may not always make sense, but God can be trusted. We have to keep our hope in Him, and in His character.
Refute your fears and the lies that "it's never going to happen; you'll never see that come to pass" by reminding yourself of Who God is.
God is working all things together for our good. Romans 8:24-28 says,"But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will. And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." NIV
So, don't give up! BECAUSE, one day...YOU WILL HOLD YOUR "Isaac" TOO!
Prayer: Father, thank You for Your promises. Thank You that You can be trusted. Help us not to grow weary in doing good. Help us to not be discouraged when we don't see the evidence of our faith as quickly as we'd like. We put our HOPE and TRUST in You alone. Move mightily in our lives. Open wide the doors before us! And show us Your will! In Jesus name, amen!
"And so after waiting patiently, Abraham received what was promised." NIV
Wow. Can you imagine how Abraham felt when he found out Sarah was pregnant? Can you imagine the tears of joy that streamed down his face when he held Isaac in his hands, seeing him for the first time?...The long awaited promise finally fulfilled...All the years of second guessing, Did I really hear God right? ...All the years of refuting the enemy's lies, God didn't really mean what He said, did He? finally put to an end!
What has God promised you? Don't let go of it! Hold on to it tightly! Keep it ever before you; because if we, like Abraham, wait for it patiently, we will receive what was promised too! Hebrew 10:23 says, "Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful." NIV
When I was 22 years old, God promised me I would minister in Russia. He planted a vision that I would minister His word in many nations. Last week, He opened an amazing opportunity for me to minister in KIev. Nearly 20 years later, but the promise of God has once again proven true. God whispers His promises, and though we don't always understand His timing, one thing we can know for certain...He can be trusted. We can always put our trust and hope in Him.
We need to keep our faith in God alone, not in our abilities, not in our accomplishments, not in the achievements of our successes...BUT IN HIM. No matter how long it takes, God is faithful, and will fulfill His promises. It may not always make sense, but God can be trusted. We have to keep our hope in Him, and in His character.
Refute your fears and the lies that "it's never going to happen; you'll never see that come to pass" by reminding yourself of Who God is.
God is working all things together for our good. Romans 8:24-28 says,"But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will. And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." NIV
So, don't give up! BECAUSE, one day...YOU WILL HOLD YOUR "Isaac" TOO!
Prayer: Father, thank You for Your promises. Thank You that You can be trusted. Help us not to grow weary in doing good. Help us to not be discouraged when we don't see the evidence of our faith as quickly as we'd like. We put our HOPE and TRUST in You alone. Move mightily in our lives. Open wide the doors before us! And show us Your will! In Jesus name, amen!
Friday, April 2, 2010
A Love Unequalled--Good Friday!
1 John 4:10-11, "This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins." NIV
Blood trickled across Jesus' brow and cheek as Pilate looked on with dismay. "Hadn't the crowds hailed Him as Messiah only days before? Why now, do they jeer for his death? Crowds are so fickle. Why are the masses so easily swayed?" Pilate wondered.
Yet the crowd's insurgence compelled him to pass his sentence quickly--"Crucify Him!"
"Crucifixion?"--Pilate shook his head in disbelief of what he was about to do.
"How can I condemn an innocent man to die the cruelest of deaths?" He thought to himself.
With a final glance, Pilate looked at Jesus, perhaps expecting judgment, or a final desperate cry from Him to reconsider, but instead, experienced Christ's pardon. The two men exchanged no words, only glances. Yet in that moment, Pilate encountered God's unexplainable mercy. Christ's eyes of compassion declared, "I forgive you...this is not the plan of men, but of God."
With Christ's mandate fixed and His mission nearly complete, He turned toward Golgotha! Endured nails! Mockery! And, accepted the weight of mankind's sin upon His body! As darkness passed, with one final breath, Jesus roared the cry of victory, "It is finished."
And in that moment, God made access for all mankind and revealed His character. His actions declared, "I Am the God who bears your infirmities. I know your pain. I understand the bitterness of betrayal. I endured the weight of sin, and felt the scourge of death. I saw your helpless estate and took your punishment. And so, I now declare to you, your victory." Never has a greater love been revealed. God's love is unequalled; when we come to God, there is no greater truth we must recognize.
The God who breathed stars into existence, who created every living creature by His spoken word, who alone holds all things together--loves you. He proved His love by humbling Himself and taking on flesh; and being found in appearance of man, further demonstrated His love by becoming obedient to death., even death on the cross.
Why?--because He loves us. His love stopped at nothing. God went to great lengths to make a way for us to fellowship with Him. He left the glory of heaven; faced humiliation; and literally endured flesh being stripped from His body,; in order to grant us access into His Presence.
God's love does not hold us at arms length. He never requires us to beg or plead for His affection. God promises that if we draw near to Him and He will draw near to us!
So, as we reflect on Good Friday and Jesus' sacrifice, let's press into Him today. "let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful." (Hebrews 10:22-23, NIV)
Prayer: Father, thank you for our salvation and the hope we through Christ. Draw near to us today and empower us to live for You! In Jesus name, amen.
Blood trickled across Jesus' brow and cheek as Pilate looked on with dismay. "Hadn't the crowds hailed Him as Messiah only days before? Why now, do they jeer for his death? Crowds are so fickle. Why are the masses so easily swayed?" Pilate wondered.
Yet the crowd's insurgence compelled him to pass his sentence quickly--"Crucify Him!"
"Crucifixion?"--Pilate shook his head in disbelief of what he was about to do.
"How can I condemn an innocent man to die the cruelest of deaths?" He thought to himself.
With a final glance, Pilate looked at Jesus, perhaps expecting judgment, or a final desperate cry from Him to reconsider, but instead, experienced Christ's pardon. The two men exchanged no words, only glances. Yet in that moment, Pilate encountered God's unexplainable mercy. Christ's eyes of compassion declared, "I forgive you...this is not the plan of men, but of God."
With Christ's mandate fixed and His mission nearly complete, He turned toward Golgotha! Endured nails! Mockery! And, accepted the weight of mankind's sin upon His body! As darkness passed, with one final breath, Jesus roared the cry of victory, "It is finished."
And in that moment, God made access for all mankind and revealed His character. His actions declared, "I Am the God who bears your infirmities. I know your pain. I understand the bitterness of betrayal. I endured the weight of sin, and felt the scourge of death. I saw your helpless estate and took your punishment. And so, I now declare to you, your victory." Never has a greater love been revealed. God's love is unequalled; when we come to God, there is no greater truth we must recognize.
The God who breathed stars into existence, who created every living creature by His spoken word, who alone holds all things together--loves you. He proved His love by humbling Himself and taking on flesh; and being found in appearance of man, further demonstrated His love by becoming obedient to death., even death on the cross.
Why?--because He loves us. His love stopped at nothing. God went to great lengths to make a way for us to fellowship with Him. He left the glory of heaven; faced humiliation; and literally endured flesh being stripped from His body,; in order to grant us access into His Presence.
God's love does not hold us at arms length. He never requires us to beg or plead for His affection. God promises that if we draw near to Him and He will draw near to us!
So, as we reflect on Good Friday and Jesus' sacrifice, let's press into Him today. "let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful." (Hebrews 10:22-23, NIV)
Prayer: Father, thank you for our salvation and the hope we through Christ. Draw near to us today and empower us to live for You! In Jesus name, amen.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Don't Settle!
During difficult seasons I have to remind myself to not settle; sometimes I find it easier to retreat to the normal "status quo" and to live in the security of what comes easiest.
Passionate, transparent living and following God's lead isn't always easy...AND...Pursuing the dreams God's put inside of us often comes with a cost...So, we have to remind ourselves of what lies ahead...and the promises God has spoken.
One of the verses God continually reminds me of is Isaiah 43:18-19; which says, "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland." NIV
This passage of Scripture reminds me of a story I read recently, "C.S. Lewis gave us the following insight: Our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition, when infinite joy is offered to us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in the slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased." (Michael Horton, Editor, The Agony of Deceit, 1990, Moody Press, p. 49.)
As I read God's word from Isaiah 43 and various quotes from C.S. Lewis, I hear God's Spirit crying out to mine..."Don't settle for what lies behind; press on toward the mark; I have so much waiting for you; Don't grow weary in doing good; Your reward is right before you...AND...I AM FAITHFUL!"
Friends, over 2,000 years ago, Jesus faced humiliation and a painful death on the cross for each one of us. His death and resurrection are the assurance of God's love and mercy for us. Jesus said that He came that we might have life and have it to the fullest. Let's not settle for "making mud pies"...Let's press on and follow where He leads us, enjoying the fullness of His Presence, meeting Him for a "holiday at the sea".
Our momentary battles are an attempt to side-track us from pressing forward into all God has for us. We can't even begin to comprehend God's love and infinite favor toward us.
1 Corinthians 2:9 says, "..."No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him..." NIV
So, today, regardless of your battle, regardless of your circumstances or momentary affliction, I want to encourage you, to DREAM BIG...LAUGH OFTEN...KNOWING GOD'S GOT IT ALL UNDER CONTROL!
PRAYER: Father, especially today, we remember the work of Your Son. This is the night He was betrayed, beaten, spat on, and denied by those closest to Him...We just want to pause to say thank You for enduring so much pain for us, for enduring the cross, and dying in our place. Thank You for redeeming us from our sins. In response to Your love and mercy, we give You our lives, to use as You see fit, to bring You the glory. In Jesus name we pray, amen!
Passionate, transparent living and following God's lead isn't always easy...AND...Pursuing the dreams God's put inside of us often comes with a cost...So, we have to remind ourselves of what lies ahead...and the promises God has spoken.
One of the verses God continually reminds me of is Isaiah 43:18-19; which says, "Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland." NIV
This passage of Scripture reminds me of a story I read recently, "C.S. Lewis gave us the following insight: Our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition, when infinite joy is offered to us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in the slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased." (Michael Horton, Editor, The Agony of Deceit, 1990, Moody Press, p. 49.)
As I read God's word from Isaiah 43 and various quotes from C.S. Lewis, I hear God's Spirit crying out to mine..."Don't settle for what lies behind; press on toward the mark; I have so much waiting for you; Don't grow weary in doing good; Your reward is right before you...AND...I AM FAITHFUL!"
Friends, over 2,000 years ago, Jesus faced humiliation and a painful death on the cross for each one of us. His death and resurrection are the assurance of God's love and mercy for us. Jesus said that He came that we might have life and have it to the fullest. Let's not settle for "making mud pies"...Let's press on and follow where He leads us, enjoying the fullness of His Presence, meeting Him for a "holiday at the sea".
Our momentary battles are an attempt to side-track us from pressing forward into all God has for us. We can't even begin to comprehend God's love and infinite favor toward us.
1 Corinthians 2:9 says, "..."No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him..." NIV
So, today, regardless of your battle, regardless of your circumstances or momentary affliction, I want to encourage you, to DREAM BIG...LAUGH OFTEN...KNOWING GOD'S GOT IT ALL UNDER CONTROL!
PRAYER: Father, especially today, we remember the work of Your Son. This is the night He was betrayed, beaten, spat on, and denied by those closest to Him...We just want to pause to say thank You for enduring so much pain for us, for enduring the cross, and dying in our place. Thank You for redeeming us from our sins. In response to Your love and mercy, we give You our lives, to use as You see fit, to bring You the glory. In Jesus name we pray, amen!
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