God’s Voice Redeems—It Doesn’t Condemn

God’s voice redeems, encourages, directs, and communicates peace. His voice does not condemn, tear down, confuse, or leave us fearful. His voice focuses on Who He is, while our voice focuses on our limitations or abilities.

I remember years ago, when my children were much younger, a time they 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!

Well 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."

I share this story to highlight the difference between our voice and God’s. It's pretty easy to look at this story and discern my voice from God’s. Unfortunately, our circumstances aren’t always that easy. Sometimes situations complicate our ability to hear God’s voice, but regardless of our circumstances God's voice redeems, it doesn’t condemn.

When God speaks, addressing our sin, it’s to call us to action not condemnation. James 5:16 says, “Confess your sins to one another that you might be healed.” And, in Ezekiel 18:30, we find another great example of Godly conviction; “Repent! Turn away from all your offenses; then sin will not be your downfall.” Do you see the redemptive qualities in these two verses? God’s voice doesn’t condemn it redeems.

If the tone of the message implies "You’re a loser" the voice isn’t God’s.

God speaks correction not condemnation. His voice doesn’t suggest generalities like you aren’t good, He impresses specifics thoughts like, you need to ask for forgiveness; you were harsh with your children.

God’s voice is redemptive; even in rebukes God speaks specifically and points to redemption. Many times throughout the Old Testament God said “if you…then I will…”

Deuteronomy 11:26-29 is a great example of a clear command from God, full of consequences, yet filled with redemptive hope: “See, I am setting before you today a blessing and a curse — the blessing if you obey the commands of the LORD your God that I am giving you today; the curse if you disobey the commands of the LORD your God and turn from the way that I command you today by following other gods, which you have not known.”

God rebuked Israel to prod them to repentance and to turn them back to Him. Time and time again we see God mercifully telling Israel to turn from their wicked ways and to return to Him with all their heart. He didn’t say, “You’re worthless and good for nothing.”

God doesn’t condemn His children; the only people Jesus spoke harshly with were the Pharisees and Scribes. He spoke strongly with them because they hypocritically claimed to be flawless, setting themselves above others, superior in knowledge, but void of relationship. If we fail to maintain a relationship with God or think we are superior to others, we may heare God's rebuke; but as a norm, God speaks to His children with love and encouragement.

So today, I encourage you...distinguish the messages playing in your mind and remember God's voice redeems!

Reconcile Faulty Beliefs

 Yesterday's blog stressed the importance of relationship; to know God's voice requires relationship with Him.

As we have relationship with Him, we are better able to recognize and discern the character of His voice. As a quick reminder, here are some helpful questions we might ask to help discern God's voice: 

• Could we imagine Jesus saying this?
• Would Jesus’ nature promote such a thought?
• Does this message line up with Who Jesus is and what He taught?

The best way to answer each of these questions is to know GOD's Word (the Bible). The word of God mirrors Who God is, reveals His thoughts, and reflects His image. Scripture describes God as holy (Psalm 99:9-100:1), as good (Psalm 100:5) as faithful (Hebrews 10:23-24), but above all, as love. 1 John 4:16 says, “And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love.”

Studying the Word of God helps us know God’s character and is the only infallible truth worthy to "test the spirits" or "discern whether the message is from God."

However, knowing the truth and reading about the truth is not enough; we need to experience the truth of Who God is! Head knowledge is not enough; we can read “God is love” but experiencing God’s love, brings us life.

Over twelve years ago I sat at the end of a bar; my intent?—to get as drunk as possible as quick as possible. How did I get here? I wondered to myself. It was the darkest season of my life. I felt isolated, alone, and discarded. While sitting alone at the edge of the bar, making one bad decision after another, the Spirit of God impressed in my mind, "There is no place you can go that my grace won't find you still." In an instant, God’s love blanketed over me, covering me from all my shame. His love came searching for me. “Lord, this is a bar. You’re not supposed to be in a bar.” I thought to myself. But the love of God knew no boundaries and in an instant the truth that “God is love” etched in my spirit forever. Ephesians 2:8-9 became life to me, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith — and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” God loved me so much, He broke through all the barriers of where I thought He would show up and met me in a bar. I was the lost sheep and Jesus left the ninety-nine to rescue me. The truth of God’s word, and my encounter with His love, forever changed my knowledge of God’s character; His love surpassed my greatest imagination. 

Isaiah 55:8-9 says, "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” 

Since we accurately discern God’s voice and distinguish it from our own, by judging what we hear with His character; we must allow the Holy Spirit to reconcile our faulty beliefs with Who He really is. We need to ask God to help us experience the truth of His character, as described in His Word. God’s character and the tone of His message complement one another.

Today, I encourage you to ask God the following questions:

• Father, do I have faulty beliefs of who You are?
• Have I limited Your power? Your love? Your character?
• Am I spending time to discover You in Your Word?

Tomorrow, I'll begin to highlight how we can accurately discern God’s voice from our own by judging the tone of the message. Hope these hints are helpful!

Is that My Voice or God's?

Wow. Yesterday's post stirred a lot of conversation. I received a lot of emails asking "How do you really discern God's voice?" So (though I certainly don't have it all figured out) I felt compelled to share (over the next few days) helpful ways to discern our voice from God's.


How do we separate our thoughts from God’s…How do we make decisions and walk in the center of His will and not constantly second guess our motives and intentions…Did God really say…or is our mind just making things up…

Often times, the barrage of these types of questions badger our mind until we give up and cower to the popular opinion “no one can ever really know.”

But we can know God’s voice. In John chapter ten Jesus 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. So, what’s the key to discerning God’s voice from our own?—A living, intimate, relationship with Him.

All throughout Scripture, God speaks to His people. The more intimate our relationship with God, the easier we discern His voice from our own.

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 it gets.

As we live in an intimate relationship with God, we can accurately discern God’s voice and distinguish it from our own, by judging what we hear with His character, the tone of the message, and its overall balance with Scripture.

1 John 4:1-3 says, “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God…”

So step one for recognizing God’s voice from others is to “TEST THE SPIRITS”. We test “the spirits” by acknowledging Jesus. If our thoughts, words, or messages don’t acknowledge Jesus then they are not from God. If they can’t clearly point back to reflect Who He is and what He did for us on the cross, then they fail the test. Christ’s character is flawless. Jesus came in the flesh, in bodily form. He came as the exact representation of God’s glory. (Hebrews 1:3) In Him all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form. (Colossians 2:9) He is our mirror to God the Father; so, when we try to discern our voice from God’s, we need to ask: Could we imagine Jesus saying this? Would Jesus’ nature promote such a thought? Does this impression line up with Who Jesus is and what He taught?

Tomorrow, we'll continue our quest to discern God's voice from our own. Hope today's post gave you a few thoughts to help! :) Would love to hear your thoughts and questions. Feel free to post them below or email me at: julie@juliegorman.com

How do we know if we are following God's plan for our lives?

Isaiah 55:8-9 says, "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” 

Recently, a friend wrote me and asked..."How do we know if we are following God's plan for our lives? How do we get back on track? How do we know if we are being disobedient, inadvertently?

Ever ask yourself these questions? Ever wonder if you are following God’s steps or meandering on your own quest? I know I sure have.

Hearing God's voice can be difficult, but be encouraged...God has a way of getting His purpose and will across. Consider the burning bush and Moses... The prophet Nathan and David ... or the star and wise men.

In our journey of faith, God simply calls us to surrender and respond when He speaks:

• First and foremost, God demands our Surrender. Surrender our time. Surrender our heart. Surrender... Surrender... Surrender! When we feel anxious we need to stop and ask, "Have I picked up the responsibility to "accomplish", "succeed", or "own God's mission"? In other words, are we relying on our abilities or God's? Surrender is never achieved instantaneously; it's a lifelong process.
• Second, God calls us to respond with steps of obedience. When God speaks...you'll know it. Don't second guess it; simply check it with His Character and Word. If it lines up...trust it! The wise men followed the star. David repented when Nathan said, "Thou art the man!" Moses took off His sandals and listened intently. What has God spoken? What grips our heart, emotions, and compels our obedience?

So, “how do we know if we are following God's plan for our lives? How do we get back on track? How do we know if we are being disobedient, inadvertently?”

Well, I won't pretend to have ALL the answers, because I don't. But, here are three helpful hints to discerning our voice from God’s:

1. We accurately discern our thoughts, feelings, or impressions by comparing them with the truth of Christ’s character.

2. By judging the tone of the message, remembering that: God’s Voice Redeems—It Doesn’t Condemn, God’s voice encourages— It Doesn’t Tear Down, God’s Voice Directs—It Doesn’t Confuse, God’s Voice Communicates Peace—It Doesn’t Leave us Fearful.

3. And, by testing the message with Scripture.

Finally, in answer to my friend's question: I believe the only way we identify God’s voice from our own is through our 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.

Hope these hints were helpful. I would love to hear your thoughts too. Feel free to leave your comments below.

Hazardous Conditions

Ever get caught in a rainstorm?

I remember while living in Kentucky a front moved in; the rained pelleted against my windshield making the road invisible to view. I slowed down. The torrential downpour caused my car to hydro-plane on the inescapable standing water. Eventually, the storm became so violent I had no choice but to pull to the shoulder of the road and wait for conditions to clear.

Oh to have that wisdom in life! To know when to slow down or even pull over to wait!

Yet, how often have I trudged forward wanting to appear as though I had "everything" under control...

Today, as I read Isaiah 30:18 I nearly jumped out of my chair in excitement!

It says, "Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; he rises to show you compassion. For the LORD  is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him!" (NIV)

Wow. What an encouraging word.

Friend, if you're in a storm...I want to encourage you to give yourself grace; the best thing to do during a storm is to wait it out by waiting for the LORD.

He longs to be gracious to us. He longs to rise and show us compassion. WHY? Because He is GOOD.

In Kentucky, eventually the skies cleared, the road became visible, and I continued safely to my home.

Today, I'm praying the same for you...sunshiny skies and safe travel on this journey we call LIFE.

Have an awesome weekend and remember...DREAM BIG...LAUGH OFTEN...and REMEMBER...GOD HAS IT ALL UNDER CONTROL!

Really, Manna! Again?



(courtesy R. Pelisson - http://www.saharamet.com/)

When I read about the 40 years of desert wanderings...I read of breath-taking miracles of provision.

But what did the Israelites see?

I read about manna in the wilderness and think, Wow! Now that is incredible morsel of provision...But the Israelites saw it as a boring, monotonous drudgery that lost its "WOW" effect after a few days.



Can you imagine their grumbling? "Really, manna again? I want flat bread with honey, or lamb with bitter herbs..."

I've often thought, Where is their gratefulness? Why aren't they thankful? Don't they comprehend God's amazing gifts of love?

However lately, I've read their plight with a different lens. You see, I've encountered the desert. I've endured aimless wanderings. I've longed for greater sustenance than daily provisions. And, unfortunately complained (just like them) instead of offering God praise. Can you relate?

Desert wanderings have a way of bringing out the "grumble" in us all. Daily provisions pale in comparisons to lucrative portfolios. Serving in small groups doesn't seem as glamorous as preaching in coliseums.

BUT...Grumbling produces death. 1 Corinthians 10:10 reminds us, "And do not grumble, as some of them did — and were killed by the destroying angel." (NIV)

So, today, I am committed to offer praise for my manna and the daily victories, realizing that God is at work for my good.

Exodus 23:28-30 reminds us that God is preparing US for the victory, so that the blessing will not overtake us. We need to grow, be stretched, and increase spiritually in order to sustain God's promise.

God told the Israelites, "I will send the hornet ahead of you to drive the Hivites, Canaanites and Hittites out of your way. But I will not drive them out in a single year, because the land would become desolate and the wild animals too numerous for you. Little by little I will drive them out before you, until you have increased enough to take possession of the land." (NIV)

The question before us is, "Will we praise Him for His daily provisions? Will we rejoice in our 'manna'? Will we recognize his goodness it what once seemed trivial or monotonous?

I for one, want to praise Him and see the miraculous in the every day!

PRAYER: Father forgive us for grumbling instead of praising. Thank You for Your goodness. Thank You for Your provision! Thank YOU for loving us, for Your patience and Your grace!

Help My Unbelief...

Today, my heart weighed heavily as I prayed for you! YES YOU! You see, each day I lift a quick prayer for everyone who reads this blog.

As I prayed, the story recorded in Mark 9:21-24 passed through my thoughts. But more than a fictitious story we read for enjoyment...My heart embraced the "REAL LIFE PEOPLE" who reveal hope for us today. In Mark 9, "Jesus asked the boy's father, "How long has he been like this?" "From childhood," he answered. "It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us." "'If you can '?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for him who believes." Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!" (NIV)

For years this father watched his son's disease torment him, throw him into fire or water to kill him...his desperate, weakened faith, let out an underlying cry for help..."If you can" revealed his anguish, pain, and all the disappointment from years of suffering.

Jesus' response convicts the man's desperate need as he quickly replies honestly..."I do believe...HELP me overcome my unbelief." Underlying tones arise...I believe...at least I want to believe...but I can't do this...I don't know what I believe...I've watched so much torment...I've tried every doctor possible...I've exhausted my resources and my energy...I have nothing left...If it's up to me...I know he won't get well...but I put my hope and trust in you...HELP!

Friend, our weaknesses often abate our hopes. Our faith wearies under the pressures of daily demands. BUT...there is always hope...JESUS is able. Like the father in this story, we may feel weak, helpless, at wits end...but...

2 Timothy 1:6-7 reminds us "to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you ... For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline." (NIV)

Today, regardless of your years of suffering...regardless of previous failed attempts...JESUS promises "Everything is possible for him who believes." 

So, Press on! Put your confidence in WHO God is and remember WHAT HE PROMISED.

PRAYER: Father, let us witness the evidence of YOUR favor, provision, and goodness today! In Jesus name, amen.

A Treasured Invitation

I remember a few years ago, a talented woman who would later become a dear friend of mine,  invited me to her home in Colorado. As a new aspiring author I welcomed the opportunity to meet with her and a few of her writing friends and agent...but even more...I looked forward to spend time with a person I admired greatly.

I don't recall the order of events that led up to Tammy inviting me to her home...but I was ecstatic! Six months prior to our connection, I read Tammy's testimony in her book, Lifegiving, and privately prayed, "Lord, I would love to meet this lady and find out how you took her years of brokenness and opened doors to share about you so publicly."

I called my husband, "Baby, Tammy Maltby invited me to fly to Colorado and meet with her, her agent, and a group of friends. What do you think?" I asked excitedly, hoping he would urge me to go.


"I think you should go." He responded.

Yahoo...Colorado here I come. I cleared my calendar and oversaw all the necessary alterations to ensure I made the connection. By the way, thanks Tammy! You're the best! ;)



Friend, today we have an invitation from God. Are we willing?

In Matthew 23:37, Jesus cries out, "O Jerusalem , Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing." (NIV)

What caused God's people to reject Him? What enticed them away from drawing near to God? More importantly, what is our response? When God calls us, do we enthusiastically say yes? Make alterations to our schedule to ensure the connection?

Today, let's purpose to respond with a resounding "YES!" to God. Make changes to our schedule to spend time in His presence. Think about it...THE KING of all kings calls to us with an open invitation to enjoy His company! His Word brings us life, wisdom, and joy. His Spirit brings life and hope.

I for one, want to accept HIS OPEN INVITATION; Revelation 3:20 says, "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me." (NIV)

Today, I felt compelled to remind you...You're invited!

Against ALL Hope

G.K. Chesterton wrote, "Hope means hoping when things are hopeless, or it is no virtue at all...As long as matters are really hopeful, hope is mere flattery or platitude; it is only when everything is hopeless that hope begins to be a strength." (Signs of the Times, April 1993, p. 6.)


Do your circumstances seem to constantly contradict God's promise? Ever wonder if you messed up or at least question if you've misunderstood God's promise?

Romans 4:18-20, "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)

Friend, remember GOD'S promise. Write it down. Post it in a place you'll see often. Recite it over and over. Thank God for it. AND NEVER, NEVER, NEVER give up.

The fulfillment of God's promise is NOT contingent upon our abilities, nor is it reduced to our merit. When God speaks He fulfills. God establishes His purpose and is NOT limited by anything except HIS OWN GOODNESS and LOVE.

Abraham's body was as good as dead. Sarah's womb was dried up. But Abraham was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised!

Today, we have the same opportunity to let FAITH ARISE and believe that GOD IS ABLE! Genesis 28:15

says, "I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you." (NIV)

Friend, God fulfills ALL of HIS promises. He will NOT, NOR will He EVER abandon you!

 
PRAYER: Father help us ignore every thought bound the limitations of our own thinking and resit every accusation that insinuates You will not follow through on Your promises. Lord, we put our hope in YOU. Though our lives are dried up, though our finances may be lacking, though in our own effort we know we have NO hope...YET...we will believe and put our HOPE in YOU! Thank You for loving us. Thank You that You can be trusted. We surrender all that we are; use our lives to bring HONOR to You! In Jesus' name, amen.

(If you have a moment and want to, listen to this awesome song by Chris Tomlin, and let it inspire your faith today: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3GIeVIWwujI )

What to do When God Seems Distant...

God are you there? Do you hear me? I waited for His reply...and waited...and waited. I listened intently, cleared my mind to receive His thoughts, unctions, or a feeling of any sort...

BUT for a few solid weeks...I GOT NOTHING!

I HATE foggy moments of silence...moments when God seems distant and disengaged...moments when trials torment, and circumstances cloud and confuse. Don't we all?

But, regardless of dismal upheavals...God can be trusted. He is faithful. He is good.

So what do you do in times of distress? When God seems distant? When life doesn't make sense?

• Lift your needs to God in prayer. Though we may not always feel like God is listening. He promises He will NEVER leave us or forsake us, and then we the righteous cry He hears and delivers. (Psalm 34:17)
• Avoid pity-parties. Oh have I ever been guilty of forgetting this step; but, low-minded thinking and self-pity profits us NOTHING. Philippians 4:8 encourages us, "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy — think about such things." NIV
• Unleash your faith. Remember Who God Is and What HE has promised. Hebrews 11:6, "without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him." (NIV)
• Give thanks. Ok. Not always easy to do. But if we "put on the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness" we will overcome. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, "Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." (NIV)
• Hold on to God's Word. Recite verses. Take the fear and feeling and remind yourself of the truth. God's Word is powerful. It demolishes strongholds. It disarms fear. It empowers us and moves mountains. Heb 4:12, "For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any two edged sword." That's pretty powerful...

If you are facing a time of heaviness...feel isolated and alone...I encourage you to remember to L.A.U.G.H. Ephesians 6:16-18 reminds us to "take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints." NIV


NIV

HIGHER! HIGHER! HIGHER!

"HIGHER! HIGHER! HIGHER!" Sommer squealed with delight, as I pushed her on the swing. I can still envision her upright piggy tails sprouting from the top of her little head, like little shoots of broccoli.

"Faster! FASTER! FASTER!" Joshua shouted and giggled, as I ran tirelessly around the merry-go-round!

I love how my children trust me implicitly. No height too high, as long as I'm watching and pushing. No momentum too fast as long as I'm there.

Every day I realize, more and more, how great God's love for me is! He pushes me higher and higher. Isn't that just like a daddy? I love how He pushes me to exceed heights I thought possible, while always reminding me I could never have done it on my own. I think God takes great pleasure watching us use our gifts for Him, while we laugh, giggle, and trust Him to remain in control.

Friend, what is God calling you to?

Whatever it is, trust Him like a child...full of faith, belief, excitement, and an adventurous, willing, spirit. In Matthew 18:3-4, Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven." (NIV)

Romans 8:15-17 takes my breath away; it reveals so much promise; it inspires my soul, saying, "For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry, "Abba , Father." The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs — heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory." (NIV)

Enjoy HIS presence! Make the most of every opportunity!
 
PRAYER: Father, push us higher and higher, faster and faster, we abandon our lives to YOU!

God's Grace Never Fails

May I get really transparent without you thinking less of me? I hope so...Because God continues to amaze me with tremendous doors of ministry. His opportunities and divine connections are so incredible, at times, I have difficulty breathing. I have never felt more inept, or incapable, to "accomplish" what He has called me to.

I wonder if Moses felt similarly when talking with Pharaoh. Or, Solomon (when positioned to lead Israel at such a young age)? Did Mary second guess her ability to rear the Messiah?

No doubt, each of them questioned their worth. Don't we all? How about you? Ever feel overwhelmed by life's circumstances? Wonder if you have the strength to scale another mountain? Does God's vision seem too big?

Today, I want to encourage you: Mountain Peaks and Valley Lows both bring tremendous insights.

Mountain tops position us to see the entire picture, providing a perfect view and making sense of our winding journey...

Valley lows, though, at times, over-whelming and daunting, position us to surrender, knowing we can only reach the summit "BY HIS GRACE".

The journey between the two...the middle ground...ahhhh now that's the most difficult part. Weak and weary, we see where we've come from...but no longer see the Mountain top. Questions mount...Do we go back? Do we press on? Rocollections of Mountain Peak becomes sketchy...where are we heading? What does it look like? Did God even call us to climb the mountain? Will we make it? Can we reach the top?

At some point we decide that our only real option is to put one foot in front of the other...to press on...taking one more step on our ever-rugged-winding ascent.

When I begin to doubt, feel insufficient, and convinced of my complete inadequacy God always reminds me...
HIS GRACE is sufficient.

In 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, Paul pleads with the Lord to take away his torment, But God replies, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Upon God's response, Paul declares, "Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong." (NIV)

Friend, our journey of faith demands constant surrender, humility, and dependency. Without God our task remains impossible...but by God's grace...we will reach the summit!

Press on today, knowing, though we are hard pressed...though we feel inadequate...though the journey always seems longer than expected...GOD'S GRACE IS SUFFICIENT! AND HE will NOT fail us!!!

A PRIVATE PERSONAL STORY...

Today, my eye caught a glimpse of a note sent by a dear friend...Instantly, my thoughts flashed back to Kentucky. It was a shaky time and the beginning of an incredible journey of faith. Greg and I privately considered selling our home, which didn't make any sense.

We had just finished the final touches of new paint, new carpet, and an in-ground swimming pool with tropical plants. We loved our community. We loved our church. Nothing in us wanted to move. Yet...something compelled us to put it on the market.

After getting the kids off to school, I decided to get yellow flowers from the local grocery store. I read the night before that YELLOW flowers invoked buying signals and determined that as we interviewed real estate agents I would put a bouquet out. As I perused through the store, looking for the yellow beauties, I silently prayed. "Father, these are big decisions...I need to know this is what you want...please confirm we are on the right path."

I left the store with a concession of mixed flowers...frustrated they didn't have a yellow bouquet.

Later that morning a delivery truck arrived. I opened the package to a beautiful bouquet of YELLOW flowers.

Wow...my husband is so thoughtful...I can't believe he took the time in his extremely busy day to send such a thoughtful gift. I thought.

Greg knew how torn I felt, wondering if we should or shouldn't sell our home. When we read the list of things to do "to sell your home"...YELLOW flowers stood out...such a strange simplicity it caught both of our attention.

But as I read the note, I realized a greater love compelled the purchase...The note read...

You Were In My Waking

Thoughts.As I prayed, The

Line "Remember the Lilies Of

The Fields" From Amy Grant's

Song" Jehovah" Came To Mind.

I Was Supposed To Send You

Lilies, Specifically Yellow.

Google The Song Amy =)

Though my dear friend Amy actually purchased and sent the gift, I recognized God's amazing love and confirmation. He knew the importance I placed on the yellow flowers and sent his confirmation to my quandary through an amazing bouquet of YELLOW lilies.

Friend, I share this story, simply to remind you OUR GOD IS BIG. HE IS ALWAYS NEAR. HE IS ALWAYS WORKING ON OUR BEHALF.

So, today, as you wrestle through your own unique circumstances and challenges...
"Consider how the lilies grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you..." (Luke 12:27-28, NIV)

Make Time for What Matters Most

Colossians 3:17 offers us incredible advice. "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." (NIV)

There are plenty of things I wish I could do over in life...but...there are some things I will NEVER regret:

Spending time with my kids playing monopoly or watching cartoons.
Saying I love you one more time, just to make sure they know.
Laughing at silly jokes that made no sense.
Holding hands with my husband.
Writing him silly love notes, just because.
Inviting a friend to lunch, just to spend time together.
Demonstrating the love of Christ to the broken and afflicted.
Taking time to listen and obey.
Pausing before I speak.
Practicing an attitude of gratitude.
Living each day as if it were my last.
Saying yes to all God ask me to do.


Today, I want to encourage you to join me in making time for what matters most.

Be Still...

Wow, isn't it amazing how quickly life can get complicated? Busy schedules. Endless "to-do lists". Kids. Job. Ministry involvements. Demands...demands...demands...

I love the quieting, calming affect, of Psalm 46:10, that says, "Be still, and know that I am God..."(NIV)

Friend, today, I want to encourage you; amidst all the things you NEED to do...there is no greater need than replenishing your soul; REMEMBER to be still, knowing that "The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still ." (Exodus 14:14, NIV)

The serenity of stillness empowered me today, rejuvenating my mind with the truth that not only is God able... He is faithful.
 
Broken dreams? God re-establishes. Broken marriages? God restores. Broken body? God heals. Lacking direction, wisdom, or hope? God faithfully provides.
 
Today, regardless of our circumstances, God is near. He is able to do exceedingly above all we could ever ask, think, or imagine. And, His love for us never ends.
 
As you silence yourself before Him today, may the stillness foster serenity and empower you with every good thing. In Jesus name, amen.

Reconnecting...

Yesterday, my husband and I visited with dear friends from Louisville, KY. We talked about old times, heard about people we hadn't seen for awhile, and got caught up on life. Coffee. Poolside conversation. Dinner. Dessert. The hours passed so quickly but enriched our soul.

This morning, as I awakened, I thought about how important friendship is, and couldn't help but think how refreshing it is to spend time in God's presence. Spending time with Him nourishes our soul and replenishes what the world tries to steal.

Ever feel worn down by "schedules"? Ever feel depleted and spent?

Today's thought is pretty basic but I hope its simplicity tears down every complexity of the enemy.

In Matthew 11:28-30 Jesus encourages, "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. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." (NIV)

My prayer, for each one of us, is to take time to rest, to reconnect with God, to resist the enemy's diversions and choose what is best.

Let's take a little extra time to fellowship with God today...and make the time to get caught up. AMEN??? Amen.

What to do When You Get Discouraged...

The last couple of years (for many of us) has weighed heavily on our faith. A Down turned economy still impacts our livelihood...National and World disasters destroyed 100's of thousands of lives.

Personally, every ounce of my strength and faith has been tested. In moments when darkness seems to only get darker, it's easy to get discouraged, knocked off course, overwhelmed by the endless onslaught of insurmountable impossibilities...

If you're in the thick of the battle...If darkness presses against you, making it next to impossible to breathe...I want to encourage you...YOU ARE NOT ALONE...GOD IS STILL NEAR.

Psalm 91:9-16 says, "If you make the Most High your dwelling — even the LORD, who is my refuge —  then no harm will befall you, no disaster will come near your tent. For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. You will tread upon the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent. "Because he loves me," says the LORD, "I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. With long life will I satisfy him and show him my salvation." (NIV)
Friend, I know at times life doesn't make sense...you can do everything "RIGHT" and still not witness the "RESULTS YOU DESIRE"...BUT...regardless of our circumstances...GOD WILL WORK ALL THINGS TOGETHER FOR OUR GOOD. One of the things that helped me through the darkness is a little principle I live by (especially when I don't know how or even what to pray anymore). Are you discouraged? Do you feel at a loss of how or what to pray for? Maybe this will help...

Pray the Scriptures. Take for example Psalm 91 from above.

Father, I choose to make you my dwelling place. I want to live in the center of Your will. Surround me and help me rest in you...to live every moment of every day in Your Presence. Be my refuge. Protect me as your Word promises. Thank you that no harm will befall me, no disaster will come near my tent. Thank you Lord that you give command over your angels concerning me to guard me in all my ways (that as I minister you are with me protecting me. That you protect my marriage and keep the relationship strong. That you protect me in my job, my home, while I work, while I sleep.) Thank you that you charge your angels to lift me up in their hands, so that I will be protected....Thank You for rescuing me, that you searched for me and called me unto You. You rescued me from a childhood filled with pain. You called me and protected me so many times throughout my life (name them). I KNOW THAT YOU ARE GOD. I call upon You, rescue me from all this darkness, move on my behalf, and thank you that You promise to help me and to answer me to be with me in trouble, (let me feel Your presence, I feel so alone and I need You. Give me Hope again.) Your Word promises to deliver me and honor me and that with a long life YOU will satisfy me and show me Your DELIVERANCE and SALVATION."

Well, anyway, I guess by now you probably get the picture...

The truth is whether in your in the midst of sunshiny skies or pitch black darkness...Praying the Scriptures calls God to action and aligns Faith with God's Word.

Hope this simple practices helps to expel the darkness of discouragement far from you. Have a blessed day.

"May it be to me as you have said"

God sent a gentle reminder to me today that I'd like to share with you; nothing fancy but powerfully profound. In Luke 18:27, "Jesus replied, "What is impossible with men is possible with God."  (NIV)

I began to think of my long list of impossibilities: launch 2 national and international ministries, host conferences and blog talk radio broadcasts all across the world, publicize writings that are read in 14 different countries all at one time...or how about a little closer to home...the impossibilities of raising 3 children to serve the Lord in a corrupt generation...maintain a love relationship with my spouse...or HOW ABOUT even more simplistic...and breathe the breath I just breathed--ALL IMPOSSIBILITIES IN MY OWN STRENGTH--BUT NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE FOR OUR GOD.

Failing marriages? Financial destitution? Faulty health?

What is your impossibility? What seems TOO BIG for you?

Jesus encouraged us in Matthew 17:20, "I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."  (NIV)

Friends, God does the impossible...

Think about Mary, in Luke 1:34-38 we read the account of the angel appearing to her and telling her she would give birth to the Messiah. Mary responded, as many of us might, saying, "How will this be," Mary asked the angel, "since I am a virgin?" he angel answered, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be barren is in her sixth month. For nothing is impossible with God."

Today, may we respond as Mary did, "I am the Lord's servant,"..."May it be to me as you have said." (NIV)

Today, I am choosing to do something a little unique, as I think about my impossibilities...instead of allowing them to overwhelm me...I am subjecting them to GOD'S ABILITY. Instead of wondering HOW I am going to make things happen I am going to quietly listen for God's instructions and obey. Instead of shrinking back to pull the covers over my head...by GOD'S grace I will put one foot in front of the other, remembering that if God is for us...who can stand against us! I will remember that GOD is GOOD. I will hold fast to WHAT HE has PROMISED!

How about you?

PRAYER: Let's pray together saying, "Father, may it be to us as You have said!" We truly put our hope in You. We know YOU work ALL things together for our good. DO THE IMPOSSIBLE...we trust YOU.

The Essence of Leadership

John 13: 15, "I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you." (NIV)

 
Many of us refute the position of leadership. But, as Christians, leadership isn't an option. We lead with our lives. You see, leadership isn't attained through corporate positions, rather it's revealed through influence... Influence demonstrated in our friendships, family, and the familiar.

Think about it...We have the incredible opportunity to lead our children, serve our spouse, and convey God's love to our community.

The truth is, we either lead through positive, deliberate, choices or lead passively through un-intentional acts of indifference. I for one want to impact and inspire my circle of influence, how about you?

Jesus demonstrated the essence of perfect leadership leaving us a powerful example to follow. So, how did Jesus lead?

1. Jesus led through delegation. I love how Jesus sent out the disciples in Mark 6:7, "...he sent them out two by two and gave them authority over evil spirits." (NIV) One of the greatest opportunities we have is to empower others. Jesus possessed the ability to disarm all the powers of darkness with just a word from His lips; instead He empowered the disciples. Jesus knew the future establishment of the church rested on these men; one day He would return to His Father; these men needed to embrace the power given them. As a mother, wife, and minister, I must remember to allow others to participate. True, I may be able to do the delegated tasks, but true leadership risks stepping back so that others might enjoy the rewards of stepping out.
2. Jesus led through Humility. True leadership resides in servant-hood. In John 13:4-5 Jesus "poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples' feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him." Wow. The night He would be betrayed, the night He would encounter the beginning of His torture...He didn't sit back expecting honor or special treatment...instead he humbled Himself and washed the feet of the ones who would betray and leave Him. (NIV) Would I do that? Do I do that? When others disappoint do I continue to serve? When my spouse doesn't follow through or act like I think he should...do I humbly serve? When people forget or fail to support...do I judge or continue to wash their feet? True leadership necessitates servant-hood.
3. Jesus didn't concern Himself with opinions, rather He stood for what was right. All throughout the Gospels, religious leaders attempted to trap Jesus. They questioned his authority. Jesus didn't concern Himself with popularity, instead He went to the lowly, the afflicted, the destitute. He overturned money tables. He resisted "Pharisee-like behavior." He stood up for what was right. As leaders, we shouldn't look for opposition; we shouldn't try to defy governing authority...but...when faced with the decision of popularity or genuine righteousness...we must persevere to honor God...following Christ's example.
4. Jesus led through vulnerability. He willingly risked being betrayed, choosing Judas, knowing he would betray Him. John 13:18, "I am not referring to all of you; I know those I have chosen. But this is to fulfill the scripture: 'He who shares my bread has lifted up his heel against me.' "I am telling you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe that I am He." (NIV) Leadership recognizes the potential of betrayal yet willingly embraces vulnerability. Ahhhhh, Lord help us! :)
5. Finally, Jesus demonstrated the essence of leadership through LOVE. Jesus loved much. He unbiasedly embraced the sinner. He ate with prostitutes and tax-collectors. He touched the lepers. He forgave the ones who nailed Him to the cross. True leadership doesn't look to advance through relationships. True leadership serves the helpless. Who surrounds us today? Who can we demonstrate the love of God to? May our mission each day be to advance the Kingdom of God through His Love. May we touch at least one person each day, serving those who can never repay or return the favor. May we follow Jesus footsteps and LOVE deeply.

Finally, in John 13:16-17 Jesus says, "I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them."  (NIV)

PRAYER: Father, empower us to live as Jesus lived and to lead as Jesus led.

Our Unique Journey of Faith

Romans 8:28-32, "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. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified. What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?" (NIV)


Last night my husband and I attended an awesome Small Business Group at Christ Fellowship Church. The speaker shared three thoughts that stuck with me:

1. Belief is the consent of the mind.
2. Faith is the choice of the will.
3. Trust is a commitment of the heart.

Our journey of faith is unique. We each experience trials, lovingly designed by our Father, to propel us toward a quest of discovering Who He is. Today, I felt compelled to remind you...YOUR TRIAL does not escape God's notice. He has not abandoned you. He has not forsaken you. Instead your allowed trial your will reveal a greater depth of God's grace, love, and presence!

For me, most of the greatest moments of intimacy were birthed in times of adversity.

I don't want to pretend I've mastered this...I have not. But one thing I strive to do...regardless of the battle...regardless of my desperation...regardless of the hopeless circumstances that come my way...I purpose to remember that GOD IS GOOD. HIS LOVE ENDURES FOREVER. And, HE TRULY WORKS ALL THINGS TOGETHER FOR MY GOOD.

So, I want to encourage you...GOD SEES YOU! My prayer for each one of us is that our belief, our faith, and our trust will continue to grow in the revelation of WHO GOD TRULY IS...that we will believe in the One Who died for us, that he will strengthen us to walk and move mountains, and that regardless of life's circumstances we will learn to trust HIM...NO MATTER WHAT!

Have an awesome weekend and thank you for being my friends! I witness more and more every day GOD'S GRACE through YOUR FRIENDSHIPS! :)

"C'mon Let's Go!"

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)

Joshua's big blue eyes twinkled with an-ever-growing excitement. "Where we going Mommy?"

"You'll see!" I said smiling.

For weeks Joshua asked to go for a walk and to have some "Mommy-Joshua Time".

"C'mon. Let's go." I said, taking him by the hand.

We walked together for over an hour. Talking. Laughing. Just hanging out.

The anticipation of "Where We Were Going" became lost in laughter and conversation.

Today, I sense the Lord whispering, "C'mon. Let's go." "Take me by the hand and let's spend some time together." "Don't worry about where we're going...you'll see!"

If you're like me, your eyes are wide-open filled with excitement and anticipation of where God is leading...while feeling overwhelmed with feelings of inadequacy and an ever-growing list of questions wondering, how...when... Lately, I find myself thinking, I honestly don't know if I can do this...it seems too big! God continues to open incredible opportunities that literally demand deep breaths to calm my rapidly beating heart.

Yet...at His command...I will step out once again to walk on water...and believe once again for the impossible...not because I'm gonna "work-it-up" but because I'm gonna "walk-it-out", one step at a time.

How about it? You up for a walk? Let's get lost in laughter and fellowship with our God and relinquish our fears.

Friends, God-sized calls always feel overwhelming until we exchange our abilities for His, surrender our wisdom for His faithfulness, and embrace the love He so freely offers!

We Don't Always Readily Witness the Evidence of Our Faith

I love a happy ending! I love when a plan comes together! I love when I witness the EVIDENCE of my faith...BUT...honestly...life doesn't always turn out like we envisioned...the check doesn't always miraculously show up in the mail...and sometimes God commands our faith to wait, to hope, and to welcome distant answers.

Hebrews 11:11-16 reminds us that, "By faith Abraham, even though he was past age — and Sarah herself was barren — was enabled to become a father because he considered him faithful who had made the promise. And so from this one man, and he as good as dead, came descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and as countless as the sand on the seashore. All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. And they admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth. People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own...Instead, they were longing for a better country — a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them." (NIV)

Friends, we don't always experience the EVIDENCE of our faith...BUT...God is faithful. Our mission in life is to entrust our lives and live to "The Audience of One".

Regardless of what comes our way...our hope must press pass the mediocrity of temporal desires and press in to hold fast to the eternal. Faith fights to remain steady, regardless of the opposition. The incessant battle against our private thoughts must be defended with the TRUTH of WHO GOD IS and by holding FAST TO HIS PROMISES (regardless of circumstances).

Today, let's press on like the heroes of our faith, knowing our citizenship and hope is greater than momentary gratifications found in temporal solutions. YOU ARE LOVED. GOD HAS NOT FORGOTTEN YOU!

(Don't forget to join Greg and I as we confront the issues causing discord in marriage today at 12 PM EST on His Love Extended's CWA broadcast :  http://www.blogtalkradio.com/cwa-radio/2011/06/01/his-love-extended )