Faith Before Fear

May 31, 2008

Our cat grows more fearful with each passing day.

As a kitten he was bold, courageous, adventuresome, and ever curious. Maybe because nothing had scared him yet.

Now he tends to hesitate at anything unfamiliar or out of place. He can be timid, skiddish, overly cautious, and, at times, downright fearful.

I can relate. As a child I was filled with faith and wonder. As time went on I became a gun-shy adult.

“I tell you the truth,

anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." [Mk 10:15]

The bumps and bruises of life made me wary. Constantly barraged by crime in the media and warnings of inherent danger made my nerves a little edgy and anxiety a daily obstacle. Depending on people and trusting in the things of this world was fertile ground for fear to grow. Each failure and mistreatment developed a new fear.

Weathering trials with Christ began to recapture that childlike faith. Growing closer to Him reversed years of damage brought on by misplaced trust - relearning the simple faith of a child.

Simply believing,
Honestly Loving,
Abandoned Joy

Because I know Him and have placed my life in His hands, there is hope for me. I wish I could say the same for my cat.


My God; How great is Your love toward me that I am called Your child! Thank You for each experience that allowed me to see Your hand upon me and at work on my behalf. Forgive me for the times I tried to live apart from You. Thank You for restoring me back to you and strengthening my faith. I praise You, for You are altogether trustworthy. I desire the wholehearted faith of a child – without conditions or expectations – for You are a good and perfect Father. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

He said to his disciples,

"Why are you so afraid?

Do you still have no faith?"

[Mk 4:40]

Battle Victorious

May 28, 2008

A favorite passage of mine is 2 Chronicles 20. Judah is in great peril, the nation fasts and prays and praises God, they enter battle with full assurance of faith and God performs a miraculous deliverance. What’s not to like? Here is my humble commentary, by verse:


Vs 1-2) King Jehoshaphat faces an encroaching attack by a vast army. The chapter begins, “after this” referring to the events of previous chapters. If you just look back at Chapter 19 alone you read that Jehoshaphat was doing good for God. Anytime someone is making a difference for the kingdom of God you can be sure an attack is eminent.


Vs 3) Some strong language is used here to give an impression of Jehoshaphat’s current state of mind. He was “alarmed”; therefore he “resolved to inquire of the Lord”. That kind of leadership is quite admirable and greatly needed today. This is the only acceptable response when one is disturbed and feels threatened. He chose wisely and then he involved his fellow countrymen to unite before God. Sharing his faith and encouraging them in theirs through action.


Vs 4) The people came together to seek help from the Omnipotent – the only answer and source of power.


Vs 6) Praise – not just any praise but a sacrifice of praise. To remember who God is in difficult times requires a deliberate act of faith.


Vs 9) They recognized the truth that God would hear them and was able to save them. No matter what befell them God had sovereignty over every iniquity.


Vs 12) “We do not know what to do but our eyes are upon you”. Where do you look when you don’t have the answers?


Vs 14) God came near. “The Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel” that he might prophecy God’s words of encouragement, direction, and promise.


Vs 15) He spoke to their greatest weakness – and mine – fear and discouragement. Often our worst enemy. He offered them a hope that renewed their countenance.

“The battle is not yours”

a motto for all mankind.

Vs 16) God already knew exactly what would happen the next day. The challenges they would face, the actions they should take and the outcome.

Vs 17) "You will not have to fight this battle". Imagine the relief upon hearing those words! They were to take their positions, this did require an act of obedience on their part, and they were to stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord would give them.

Ready – Watch – Wait – Receive.

All the things one would want to hear were repeated to them again. An assurance the Lord would be with them and not to fear. Words of great comfort to those that are His -- no matter the situation. The fear was reserved for the defeated foe.


Vs 18-19) I absolutely love their response – genuine worship and praise. Reverently bowed low, building to a crescendo of loud voices.

Vs 20-22) Faith. Faith to make a triumphant victory march before they even stepped onto the battlefield. They believed in God and His word. They sang as an act of worship and expression of faith. A statement that spoke volumes to the opposing army.

Vs 25-26) For three days they carried off plunder and named the place the Valley of Blessing (appropriate!). Do we realize the “plunder” from the spiritual battles God wins on our behalf? Those priceless lessons learned. To haul off the spoils of war is to gain from the experience He has allowed for our betterment. Increased faith, improved character, enhanced worship, knowledge, a new ministry.

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Vs 29) God was known and feared. Glory revealed. Mission accomplished.

Vs 30) The Lord gave them rest. Peace was their reward. "On every side". No reason to look over your shoulder or scout out the territory.

This historical event is the epitome of any spiritual allegory if ever there was one and at the very center is God’s delight in the worship of his people.

King Jehoshaphat was a zealous, pious God follower that cleansed the land of idols and led the nation in morality. The divided kingdom was fraught with wicked leadership but during this particular period a good king was at the helm. Undoubtedly, one of my respected favorites. He encouraged the people to return to the Lord (Chapter 19). God protected him in battle (Chapter 18:31-32 NLT) and granted him victory in others that were never even fought. He was blessed with great riches for Judah was never more prosperous after his reign. He was a man of flaws, however (which makes him real and relatable). He formed an alliance with Ahab (1 Kings 22;2 Chronicles 18) that brought about consequences of God’s disapproval. He did not completely remove all idolatry from the land. Later he entered into a shipping allegiance with Ahaziah that cost him the loss of his fleet (2 Chronicles 20:35-37;1 Kings 22:48-50). Although, may it be said of us as stated in 2 Chronicles 22:9 NASB; “[he] sought the Lord with all his heart”.

All Powerful God of Wonder; You are to be praised for the splendor of your holiness; we gives thanks for your love endures forever. You are to be taken at your word. Strengthen your people with faith. Provide us with godly, courageous leadership, seeking your presence in all things. In the name of our Lord, Jesus Christ, Amen.

Traveling In The Orange Zone

May 27, 2008

I love road trips. One thing is for sure, you don’t have to go very far before you enter a construction zone. I don’t recall any trips without passing through an orange zone.

A sign of growth and improvement. A response born of need and hope. A season of expansion. Often at the expense of inconvenience - but isn’t it always worth it?

A perpetual process. As soon as one project is complete the demands outgrow the means and it’s time for another improvement.

Lanes, dotted by cones and framed in drums, narrow and merge. All travelers funnel into one lane. (Much preferred over detours.) Pilgrims traversing the same path. Joined together while passing through the construction zone. One destination - home.

I should carry my own danger sign - warning others of work in progress. Jack hammers chisel away hard layers built up around my heart. Back hoes remove and dump trucks haul away unwanted debris. Rollers and graders smoothing out the rough surface. New concrete poured out to create wider space better able to handle the master design.

As God continues to fulfill His plan for the Body of Christ - His church - may we be ever growing, improving, merging, moving in the same direction, and meeting the needs of our communities. Commuting pilgrims under construction.

Dear God; Thank You for guiding me on this journey of life. Continue to transform me into the likeness of Your Son. Continue to improve the church You are constructing; merging us together in answer to the prayer of Jesus - that we may be one as You and He are one. Help us to avoid unnecessary detours and stay upon a road of righteousness - leading us ever homeward. In Christ name I pray, Amen.

Attention Grabbers

May 23, 2008

Unusual sightings. Attention-getters. Visuals that make you stop and take a second look.

The occasion that brings this thought to print was noticing something out of the ordinary.

Crusing to work on I75 with a steady stream of southbound rush-hour traffic. Suddenly I had a double-take moment. Mixed in among all the normal expressway vehicles was a very large subway car being transported on a semi carrier. Here was this massive object out of it's normal element.

The uncommon in the common.

"You are the salt of the earth.

But if the salt loses its saltiness,

how can it be made salty again?

It is no longer good for anything,

except to be thrown out and trampled by men.

"You are the light of the world.

A city on a hill cannot be hidden.

Neither do people light a lamp and

put it under a bowl.

Instead they put it on its stand,

and it gives light to everyone in the house.

[Mt 5:13-15]

Jesus was in this world but not of this world. Isn't that the example for me?

Isn't that how Christians should be (to a certain extent, that is)?

God has created us to reflect His glory. To cause others to notice Him in our lives.

Living normally in the environment He has preordained but standing out enough for others to take notice.

Cruising along on this predestined path in a manner that doesn't blend in but stands out.

In the hustle and bustle of my everyday life, Lord, may I be mindful that my actions might give others a glimpse of You. Bring the extraordinary to our ordinary lives and let Your Light shine for others to see you among them. Give us courage, in humilty with love and grace, to live boldly for you - a lamp on a stand. In the Name of Jesus, Light of the World, Amen

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Get Synced

May 22, 2008

“My songs didn’t download because I didn’t check the box”, I heard my daughter lament from the other room. Fortunately for us we don’t have to worry if we’ve checked all the right boxes on a particular list in order to receive from God.


It is essential for every Jesus-follower to be connected to God. For the sake of this illustration, let’s think for a moment that God is the Library; the USB Cable as the Holy Spirit; an Ipod as my heart. The syncing of Ipods is a regular occurrence in my house. Staying in sync with God should be even more frequent.


We need to download holy files, plug in to the source Library and get synced. Allow those files to play over and over; moving to His rhythm; hearing his beat; filling ourselves with His song. Infusing the soul with Scripture sound bites.


A modern day act of worship – in sync with the Almighty Jehovah.

I praise Your ubiquitous nature – that I can plug in anywhere, anytime. God, create in me the desire to stay connected to You, living in Your Word and Your will and synchronizing with You. In the Name of Jesus, Amen

May my tongue sing of your word,

for all your commands are righteous.

[Ps 119:172 NLT]

Identity No Longer In Crisis

May 21, 2008

You know what’s worse than a back seat driver (even if it’s a teen that doesn’t even drive yet?) - a rear end driver! You know what I mean. The person driving directly behind you that is trying to control your car as well. You have the vision vantage point, yet they decide you should go. They lose patience and anger rises, horns blare, and screams emerge.

I had just such a driver behind me this morning. They proceeded to get irate when I didn’t go at their insistence. I don’t know why they felt it was their place to make my judgment call and decide for me. It was obvious to me that they were blind to the fact that the road was not clear, or safe to proceed. Nevertheless, I had to fight the urge to go just to please them. Clearly this was their issue but I felt a need to be the one to calm them down. I had to convince myself not to worry about their reaction to my decision.

I recognized long ago that I tend to be a people-pleaser. Obviously I still battle this tendency. Partly because I have a false, self-imposed sense of responsibility to do so. And partly for selfish reasons due to an underlying, driving need for their acceptance of me.

Coming to Christ brings about a new identity and part of spiritual maturity is realizing and accepting that identity. As I gain security in who I am in Him through God’s eyes, that temptation loses it’s power. The influence of people becomes less of a determining factor.

Do not put your trust in princes,

in mortal men, who cannot save.

When their spirit departs,they return to the ground;

on that very day their plans come to nothing.

[Ps 146:3-4]

A skewed, misaligned perspective is at the core of this fault. It is God I should aim to please and not mere man.

So we say with confidence,
"The Lord is my helper;
I will not be afraid.
What can man do to me?"

[Hb 13:5-7]

Others do not have the ability or desire to consistently hold me in the same esteem as my Creator.

Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob,

whose hope is in the LORD his God,

the Maker of heaven and earth, the sea,

and everything in them—

the LORD, who remains faithful forever.

[Ps 146:5-6]

I need not be concerned with my errant feelings of worthiness. I don’t have to be perfect, flawless, beautiful, of high social standing, or famous to be loved by Him. I can be free to neglect what my friends and family think and remember that God finds me beautiful and delights in me. That was the hardest thing for me to accept and came years after I confessed my faith in Him to save me. The day He brought me to believe that He really did love me was an unforgettable and faith-changing moment. He was triumphant to demolish the lies I had believed for so long.

He upholds the cause of the oppressed

and gives food to the hungry.

The LORD sets prisoners free,

the LORD gives sight to the blind,

the LORD lifts up those who are bowed down,

the LORD loves the righteous.

The LORD watches over the alien

and sustains the fatherless and the widow,

but he frustrates the ways of the wicked.

[Ps 146:7-9]

Jesus accomplished God’s will with confidence and courage. He was secure in who He was, who God was, and just how much His Father loved Him. I cannot be who God created me to be and live purposefully for Him until I release my need to live for others. I read in Captivating (an absolute MUST read for all women) that no one can be to the people in my life who I can be to them and that no one can offer what I can offer.

God has blessed each believer with gifts to accomplish his will and plan for his church. He provides the necessary resources and equips each of us abundantly to meet each need.

Therefore you do not lack any spiritual gift

as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus Christ

to be revealed. He will keep you strong to the end,

so that you will be blameless on the day of our

Lord Jesus Christ. God,who has called you

into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord,

is faithful.

[1 Cor 1:7-9]

A devotional I read on the Purpose Driven Life website read: “A pencil brings glory to God by being a pencil. But, if you take a pencil and try to use it like a screwdriver, it won’t work and you’ll likely break the pencil“. I can not pretend to be something I’m not nor do what God has intended for someone else to do. I can be stubborn enough to try but I will be miserable and fail. I will never attain what He has planned for me and I will not be blessed with his peace.

I must be truthful and faithful in who I am created to be. For me it becomes a matter of allowing the truth of His Word to transform my mind - building on a foundation of growing trust and faith in Him. Believing what he says about me and not feeling an internal pressure to worry about what others think about me.

As I sat at that long red light I kept looking in my rear view mirror at the frustration of this driver. I tried not to condemn myself for not reacting to their liking. I felt empathy at their stress caused by such a minor infraction. I heard God speak truth to me - that it was their problem - and I felt His peace wash over me. Release. I praised Him for deliverance and prayed for their state of mind.


[May you come to believe that the God of peace]“who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” [Hb 13:20-21]

Treasure Hunters

May 20, 2008

The fear of the LORD

is pure, enduring forever.

The ordinances of the LORD

are sure and altogether righteous.

They are more precious than gold,

than much pure gold;

they are sweeter than honey,

than honey from the comb.
[Ps 19:9-10]

As I was watching National Treasure this evening I really admired the tenacity and determination of Ben Gates to find untold treasure. It convicted me that I should take the same approach in searching God’s Word. There is such treasure buried in that sacred text. Treasure of far greater value than gold or silver or the rarest of gems.

How much better to get wisdom than gold,

to choose understanding rather than silver!
[Pv 16:16]

My son, if you accept my words

and store up my commands within you,
turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding,
and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding,
and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure,
then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God.
[Pv 2:1-5]

Because I love your commands

more than gold,

more than pure gold,
[Ps 119:127]

Time in God’s Book reaps incredible findings beyond what is read on the pages. It brings God’s voice into my awareness and through the working of the Holy Spirit reveals what is buried deep within my heart. Those hidden flaws that I’m not even aware of, acknowledge, recognize or understand. They are sifted to the surface and brought into the light. Applying what is read turns the revealed into something of value and makes use of that which was previously unreachable.

Shouldn’t the same fervor be generated in finding these riches? Ben Gates believed what most of the others did not. He pursued his quest with such zeal. He never would have discovered what was hidden unless he set out to find it. The same for the two men Jesus used as an example in the following parables. Jesus taught that the things of God should be our mission and that there is nothing worth having more than the kingdom of heaven.

"The kingdom of heaven

is like treasure hidden in a field.
When a man found it, he hid it again,
and then in his joy
went and sold all he had and bought that field.
"Again, the kingdom of heaven

is like a merchant looking for fine pearls.

When he found one of great value,

he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.
[Mt 13:44-46]

Triune God; You are the greatest of all treasure and Your Word more valuable than worldly riches. I hunger for Your truth. Build in me an intensity of focus that is God-honoring and transforming and desired above all else.

The LORD is exalted,

for he dwells on high;

he will fill Zion with justice and righteousness.
He will be the sure foundation for your times,

a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge;

the fear of the LORD is the key to this treasure.
[Is 33:5-6]

Penny Pushers

May 17, 2008

A sea of red

Shoulder to shoulder

On our knees

One goal

Gleaming lines of copper

None alike

Nor straight

But touching

Linked together

With a Kingdom purpose

Feeble fingers fumble in rapid succession. Busy bodies shuffling a mile worth of pennies. Why, you ask? Fair question. Just a wild and wacky idea of our Youth Minister. Raising funds for missions by attempting to break a world record.

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The old record still secure; however, success was granted for more was accomplished than not and many goals were realized.

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A church united with passion, purpose and excitement. Outrageous fun making lasting memories. Building a bond of family and soon to build homes in Honduras.

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May God be praised 84,480 times - once for each penny laid - multiplied by the number of participants. I envision a heavenly smile. Laid down for the Lord on holy ground for it is "In God We Trust".

"whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God."

[1 Cor 10:31]

A Room With A View

God has blessed me with a beautiful sight last night. It wasn't the Grand Canyon or a dazzling sunset - something far more remarkable. It was a baptism. Not only was this the loveliest of sights to behold, what made it even more spectacular was the mental snapshot of friends gathered close witnessing a rebirth. Celebrating the moment of a lifetime.

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I can think of many memorable occasions we gaze upon. Truly joyful events. Like that first look upon the face of your newborn baby; the smile on your awaiting grooms face down the sacred aisle of matrimony; and then there's the beauty of the landscape of God's awesome creation. All make ones heart sing and spirits soar. Unspeakable joy.

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Dear God; Thank you for moments like these. For allowing us to share in the purpose for which our Savior died and joining in the celebration with all of heaven to welcome another into Your fold. Bless this child of Yours, Father, with all the riches that are in Christ Jesus. Continue to work out her salvation and surround her with loving, supportive friends all her days. In Jesus Glorious Name, Amen

No Longer the Enemy

May 15, 2008

Whenever your enemies refuse
to change their ways,
you sharpen your sword
and string your bow.
Your deadly arrows are ready
with flaming tips.

[Ps7:12-13 CEV]

I have enough fear of human enemies and positively tremble at the thought of having God for one. Yikes! Yikes! And triple yikes!

I was reading Psalm 9 and imagined being in the position of an army the Israelites faced in battle. God was Israelites Leader, their General, their Power, their Assured Victory. God’s Chosen vs. the Others. The way I figure, if you’re not God’s chosen people, you’re the enemy. YIKES (or did I already say that?).

You have rebuked the nations and destroyed the wicked;

you have blotted out their name for ever and ever.
Endless ruin has overtaken the enemy, you have uprooted their cities;

even the memory of them has perished.

[Ps 9:5-6]

I sure wouldn’t want to occupy His territory that’s been promised to His people. S-C-A-R-Y! The Bible is filled with graphic details equal to every imaginable horror. These serve many purposes. They demonstrate God’s power and might; His love for His people; consequences of sin, evil and enmity with God; and instill a reverent fear of God. We learn that He has far greater power than any nuclear weapon (think Sodom and Gomorrah). I can’t say that I’ve met many Hivites, Perizzites or Girgashites lately. All enemies of the Israelite nation. Each one defeated by God.

See, the LORD is coming with fire,

and his chariots are like a whirlwind;

he will bring down his anger with fury,

and his rebuke with flames of fire.

For with fire and with his sword

the LORD will execute judgment upon all men,

and many will be those slain by the LORD.
[Is 66:15-16]

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Not exactly an enemy I want to have. That's precisely what I was, though. An enemy due to my sins. By the work of Christ and the grace of God He has mended our broken relationship. Reconciliation by Him and to Him.

For while we were still helpless, at the right time

Christ died for the ungodly.
For one will hardly die for a righteous man;

though perhaps for the good man someone would dare even to die.

But God demonstrates His own love toward us,

in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
Much more then, having now been justified by His blood,

we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him.

For if while we were enemies

we were reconciled to God

through the death of His Son,

much more, having been reconciled,

we shall be saved by His life.
And not only this, but we also exult in God

through our Lord Jesus Christ,

through whom

we have now received the reconciliation.
[Rm 5:6-11NASB]

The good news is that was then. How I thank God that I was born into the era of the New Covenant! No longer “Them vs Us”. One nation. No favorites. Now that’s not to say that Jesus hasn’t given us warning about judgment at the end times; however, this side of Calvary I have a choice. No longer is it left to the family one is born into or what side of the boundary stone you live on. Now that is a love I cannot fathom or comprehend!

Then Peter began to speak: "I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts men from every nation who fear him and do what is right.

[Ac 10:34-35]

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God offers other words of encouragement, promise and fullfullment in Christ to assure us of our standing before Him. His treasured voice to remove fear and doubt.

Greater love has no one than this,

that he lay down his life for his friends.

You are my friends if you do what I command.

[Jn 15:13-14]

The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness.

He is patient with you,

not wanting anyone to perish,

but everyone to come to repentance.

[2 Pt 3:9]

Upon hearing the Word, we all have the option to be adopted as children of God. We can accept his peace offer and cross the battle line. Our responsibility then is to obey God’s command to share the good news so that the world may know the choice that is theirs to make - reducing the size of the enemy camp.

The fact that we even have the option to be spared the wrath of God and eternal punishment is amazing in itself. But that He blesses us for it and walks with us to the end, in every battle, is more than one can fathom - or repay.

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Lord Jesus, my Soul-Reconciler; What can I say but thank you?! What can I do but exalt and praise You? Give me courage to boldly share this incredibly good news with others that they may too know peace with You. In the name of Jesus, our Peace Maker, Amen.

Glorious Parting

Ah, the day the clouds will part and the Lord descend! The day beyond death when the spiritual realm shall part and my temporal earthly life shall pass through into the eternal. Two partings to look forward to ~ long for ~ hope in.

God’s divine partings:

• The parting of the waters on the 2nd day of creation
• The parting of Adam’s flesh that God might bring forth woman
• The parting of the animal flesh for the covenant of God with Abraham
• The parting of the Red Sea for deliverance
• The Jordan River for entry into the promised Land
• The Temple Curtain that separated man from the presence of God
• The parting of the tomb stone for the Death Conqueror to emerge
• The parting upon entry of the baptismal waters that cleanse me of sin and bring me into relationship with the Holy One
• The final parting for Jesus to open the door to those in Him that we might pass unto life everlasting

Jesus is the Way. Whether life-unto-death-unto-life or at His return, I intend to follow. What type of worship is fitting for such an occassion? To behold that glorious sight! One parting worthy of joyous celebration!

All praise to You, Divider of the Seas. The Lord willing, may You find me standing strong ‘til the end, that I might witness the grand parting and be given divine passage.

Tried and True

May 14, 2008

Photo: Amazing world of cuddly

On gray, rainy winter days I love to curl up in an old tattered and faded bathrobe. It’s cozy. Reminiscent of a child’s worn blanket or favorite stuffed animal.

Shaken-ness can cause a return by rote to the common, the familiar.

Blind Habits
Mindless Routines
Numb Motions
Mechanical Repetition
Thoughtless Robotics

Fear of the unknown. Entering into foreign territory, paths not yet tread, can cause a stirring within when challenges arise. Difficulties can send the signal to retreat. Discouraged, our deceitful hearts convince us that what we really want is to go back.

You know the old saying, “old habits die hard”. We are such creatures of comfort (or at least I am). Even if the familiar is dangerous, harmful or short of God’s glory, it feels safe. We tend to have this flawed, false sense of security. For a particular sermon one Sunday our minister relayed a story from their foster parenting experience. He told of a very young girl that was taken from her mother because of abuse and neglect. She lived in terrible conditions. She kept screaming to go home - even though home was a threat to her well-being and her very life; but that was all she knew. She was scared of the unknown. When something is all you know, that’s where you naturally want to go.

The Israelites wanted to return to Egypt when faced with challenges of a new land [Nu14:3]. The land where they were held captive, severely mistreated, and enslaved.

The disciples went back to their previous fishing occupations after their King was crucified and they concluded the kingdom of God had failed, totally confused about the future. That’s where Jesus found them - the third time he appeared to them after his resurrection [Jn 21:1-3]. They returned to their former lives - what they knew. They were headed on one course when they encountered a shift in direction. Surely they couldn’t trust their own ideas and understanding of what to do next, considering the fact that nothing had gone quite the way they expected it to at this point.

Knowing the flaws in our natural human tendencies, God warned through Paul that when we are in Christ we are to intentionally put off our old self and put on the new [Eph 4:22-24 Msg]. Death to our old self and old habits (better known as repentance) and putting on the new life is an inward change of mind and heart. Renewal and transformation at the hand of a merciful and compassionate Father our only hope.

I could easily coast in the wide open spaces - filled with blue skies and a nice view. Hit any slight bump or unexpected turn in the road and I would wonder whether I was headed on the right track or I’d second guess whether He’d catch me if I fell. I tended to doubt His pure goodness, thinking that there couldn’t be even the remotest possibility that His gift was free. Sometimes I look for conditions in His love - the hook, the catch, the hidden clause. I listen to the lies of the enemy telling me I am unworthy of His blessing. The doubts give way to fear and off I run - back to the comfort of the pit.

God leads me ever onward and upward into the unknown asking me to follow. The more I run to Him in crisis, the faster my response time the next time around. After years of His faithfulness, more often than not, when I feel the urge to turn to a place of comfort, I turn toward my heavenly Father. My refuge ~ my hiding place ~ my sanctuary.

It would be misleading for me to say that I don’t still have that robe hanging in my closet. I pray for a paradigm shift - to realize that He is the tried and true, so once and for all I can toss out that old ratty robe and exchange it for the new one He longs to give me.

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God of all comfort; I praise You for Your faithfulness and the way you calm my anxious spirit and drive out all fear. Forgive me when I turn to other things and visit old habits when rattled and frayed. Retrain my feet to tread the path You’re on in trust and faith. In the name of Your Beloved Son, Amen.

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But that's no life for you. You learned Christ!

My assumption is that you have paid careful attention to him,

been well instructed in the truth precisely as we have it in Jesus.

Since, then, we do not have the excuse of ignorance,

everything—and I do mean everything—

connected with that old way of life has to go.

It's rotten through and through. Get rid of it!

And then take on an entirely new way of life—

a God-fashioned life, a life renewed from the inside

and working itself into your conduct

as God accurately reproduces his character in you.

[Eph 4:22-24 Msg]

Upward Still

May 13, 2008

Still upward be your onward course;
For this I pray today;
Still upward as the years go by,
And seasons pass away.

Still upward in this coming year,
Your path is all untried;
Still upward may you journey on,
Close by your Savior’s side.

Still upward although sorrow come,
And trials crush your heart;
Still upward may they draw your soul,
With Christ to walk apart.

Still upward till the day shall break,
And shadows all have flown;
Still upward till in Heaven you wake,
And stand before the throne.

Charles H. Spurgeon
Selected from Streams in the Desert
By L.B. Cowman

Encouragement for endurance.

Offered as a blessing and an accompaniment to previous day's blog entry.

To Endure or Not To Endure ~ Is There Any Question?

May 12, 2008

Endurance – the ability to withstand difficulties. Baker’s Evangelical Dictionary defines endurance as “continuing commitment in the face of difficulty.” It is an inner strength that enables a believer to hold up under hardship. Charles Stanley once said;

“God measures our progress by our capacity to endure.”

I have heard many inspiring, heroic stories of people enduring extreme situations. I often think of sports because of the requirement for physical training and discipline in order to compete. But what about the mundane, everyday burdens of life? Where does our capacity to endure the daily forces of this world come from? Let me share some insight God has given me:

Endurance comes from Scripture
For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. [Rm 15:4].

Endurance comes from God
May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, [Rm 15:5]

Endurance is prompted by prayer
We also pray that you will be strengthened with all his glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy [Col 1:11NLT]

Endurance is inspired by our hope in Jesus Christ
We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. [1Thes 1:3]

Now here are two unexpected verses I’ve melded into this particular thought.

A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance, But by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken. [Pv 15:13 NKJ]. The Contemporary English Version states that “sorrow can crush you”. Personally, I find it really hard to be strong when by heart is sad and my spirit crushed. Discouragement and despair are sure roadblocks to endurance. There are many reasons God warns us that above all things we are to guard our hearts. A broken heart is a weak countenance and easy prey.


I am the LORD, and there is no other; there is no God but Me. I will strengthen you, though you do not know Me, so that all may know from the rising of the sun to its setting that there is no one but Me. I am the LORD, and there is no other.
I form light and create darkness, I make success and create disaster; I, the LORD, do all these things.[Is 45:5-7 HCSB]

Understand and believe that the Lord is sovereign. Know and trust Him. Know the standing of your relationship with Him. Realize these three things and remember them when the going gets rough and by His truth, He will give you strength.

So I find there is no magic potion or fancy formula but the same act that answers all our afflictions: lean on Him who is able. He helps us to bear up under the weight - for as long as it takes.

Almighty Lord of heaven and earth; Grant me grace to accept this difficulty; strength to bear the weight; patience to see it through. Keep me from the sin of self-pity and let me not grow bitter. You are my source for endurance, You have provided Your Word as encouragement to enable me and Your Spirit to empower me. Guard my heart and renew my hope. In Jesus lovely name, Amen.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses,

let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles,

and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith,

who for the joy set before him

endured the cross, scorning its shame,

and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

[Hb 12:1-2]

Mother's Day Prayer

May 11, 2008

There are some very desirable qualities I admire that were displayed by some of the notable mothers in the Bible. These women possessed some amazing spiritual attributes that I definitely long to endow. Works of the Spirit that would bless my children directly and would leave a rich heritage for future generations.

Madonna La Zingarellaby

Roberto Ferruzzi

It is my prayer and my petition, Dear God, that you grant me a humble spirit and bless me with attributes similar to:

The hope of Eve
The love of Jochebed
The faith of Mary, mother of John Mark
The courage of Ruth
The trust of Hannah
The influence of Lois
The energy of the Proverbs 31 mom
The gift of friendly support of Elizabeth
The perseverance of the Gentile woman from Phoenicia
The hospitality of the widow of Zarapheth
The joy of the Samaritan woman
The worship of Miriam
The servant heart and endurance of Mary, mother of Jesus


May these qualities be attractive and desired by all mothers so that our children will reap the benefits of your imprint on our lives. Thank You for Your indwelling Spirit that produces such fruit. May I always remember and believe that all things are possible with God. In the Power of Jesus Name, Amen

W I W ~ While I Wait

May 9, 2008

My mom had a saying I’m sure you’re familiar with:“A watched pot never boils”. When I was young I didn’t quite understand this statement. A few years later in life it would just annoy me. Now that she is gone, I can hear the echo of her voice and I just smile.

I’m sorry to admit it but I’ve yet to learn that lesson. Often times when I need to boil a pot of water for some recipe, I try to sneak a peak under the lid to see if it’s ready. More times than not, it’s not. When I do that I only release the steam cooling the temperature and merely prolong the desired result, having to wait even longer. What’s worse is that I tend to repeat this error more than once. I lose patience with the time it takes and it ends up taking more time. Prematurely checking my progress only aggravates and hinders the process.

I do that with the work God tries to do in me, as well. Let’s use this analogy as a modern day parable and imagine that God is the stove, the source of heat, I am the pot and the desired result or “fruit” is the water. While God may be trying to grow in me patience, I’m yelling “am I there yet, are you done yet?“ In His attempts to mature me spiritually I try to rush him along or take short-cuts. I’m in such a hurry for results that I just want to scream “close enough!” Not God, He aims for completion, not “nearly there.” Not wanting to go the distance, even though I know the interruption will just make me have to stay at it longer (or eventually come back to it again).

God provides opportunities for my betterment that I may grow in grace and Christ-like character and I just want the fruit without the farming. A free ride at full speed. The more uncomfortable the growing pain, the faster I want off the burner. Or how about the “not-now-Lord-I-have-something-else-in-mind” approach? Or the more popular “this-way-is-better” attitude? And I wonder why I’m not the person I want to be. I ask ridiculous questions like, “Will I ever be more _________? Will I ever learn?” Not if I keep interrupting the slow and steady simmer.

There are times when I wonder what God is doing, why He is doing it, and how long it will take but the only effective thing I can do is trust. There are days when I doubt if my stove is working properly and instead of lifting the lid, I readjust the position of the pot on the burner. In the midst of a life lesson He may not even seem present, involved or even interested and that is precisely when faith has to keep me on the heat of the Burner; left alone to let the Stove do it’s work.

When the water finally boils only then is it able to be useful and accomplish it’s intended purpose (the unnecessary evaporating). When I stay with Him in the fire long enough He is able to use me and create something new and of purpose.

There is a particular situation I am aware of right now in my life that God is working on. I’m not exactly sure what He is doing but, by faith, I know He is doing something. I had to come to a point of surrender to trust the outcome and the timing to Him. In the meantime, I came up with a little slogan to keep my focus: W I W. I made a cute logo with specific points and printed several slips off on my computer to tape on my bathroom mirror, place on the dashboard of my car, and put in my wallet. W I W - while I wait. I keep praying for patience to wait on God and while doing so I am:

Seeking
Serving
Striving

I am seeking His direction, guidance, wisdom, and presence; I am keeping busy by being intentionally productive; being deliberate in spiritual growth. I want to be ready for whatever it is He is preparing me for and I don‘t want to stay here any longer than necessary. This keeps my faith in check and helps on the days when I struggle with getting discouraged or impatient.

I sure do hope I remember this the next time I try to interfere by peaking too soon and trying to rush the process. Dinner is ready every time; pot emptied out, complete and served, ready for the next meal.

Dear Father; I give thanks for Your patience and Your desire to improve and transform me. I confess that I often have a demanding and impatient attitude. Give me eyes to see Your hand at work and help me to understand the things You are trying to teach me. Forgive me for not trusting you and waiting until Your work is done. While I wait, Lord, I will stay close to You and pray You will make me useful in Your kingdom and that I may continue to grow in Your grace. In Jesus Name, Amen

Garlands of Hosannas For My King

May 7, 2008

Were I to laud and magnify My Lord
With a garland made of praise,
I would string blossoms of adoration
From flowers of wonder, reverence and awe

Oh, to attribute my King
A fragrant offering.
To magnify and glorify
My wonderful God Most High.

The most vibrant of colors,
The fullest of blooms,
The sweetest of any scent.

A beauty never before envisioned.
Delicate petals agleam with warm sunlight
Arranged skillfully on a golden heartstring
And tied to the very depths of my soul.

Moistened by the dew of my joyful tears,
Woven with love into the choicest of all creation,
Encompassing your neck with exaltation,
Draping your frame with endless acclamation.

A wreath of hallelujahs in the grandest design

Beginning anew each day.

Weaving blooms to a lei of thanksgiving
With buds from a lifetime of praise
And when my life is over

may it have flowers for each of my days.

Where Is God?

May 3, 2008

While Aaron was speaking to the whole Israelite community,

they looked toward the desert,

and there was the glory of the LORD

appearing in the cloud.

[Ex 16:10]

In the midst of the cloud was the glory of the LORD. He is in the dark storm clouds of life. It is there we can see His glory most clearly. It is when we are in the very center of those storms that we must focus on Him the most.

That day when evening came,

A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat,

so that it was nearly swamped. Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion.

The disciples woke him and said to him, "Teacher, don't you care if we drown?"
He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves,

"Quiet! Be still!"

Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.

[Mk 4:35, 37-39]

.

It was in the dark that a storm arose that terrified Jesus' disciples. They saw His glory, power, and sovereignty in the middle of that stormy sea. Even greater still, He was there with them.

.

Then Ananias went to the house and entered it.

Placing his hands on Saul, he said,

"Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you

on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that

you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit."

[Ac 9:8-9, 15-17]

.

It was through the darkness of Saul's blindness that Jesus was working to transform him to become St. Paul. God was working for his healing and strengthening with Ananias when he was lost, confused, and unable to see.

Early on the first day of the week,

while it was still dark,

Mary Magdalene went to the tomb

and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance.

[Jn 20:1]

The glory of the LORD was seen on the most mournful day in history while it was still dark. It was then that Jesus arose from the dead.

At midnight the cry rang out:

'Here's the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!'

[Mt 25:5]

It could very well be in the middle of the darkest night, when our Bridegroom could appear. He is a thought away in those long, dark, lonely nights. He will meet you where you are.

The struggle then is fought in our minds to consciously choose between reigning thoughts based in emotion or truth. The reality will always be that God is present and it is a discipline of the mind to focus rather on Him. It is essential to focus on the sovereignty of God when all around gives way. He makes calm both the day and the night:

where morning dawns and evening fades

you call forth songs of joy.

[Ps 65:8]

It is the exercise of faith that pleases God and there that He responds with comfort and peace. Stay with God in the storm, safe in His arms, and wait patiently in prayer for the work He is doing in you through the storm. Remain in His Word and He will speak peace to calm the storm raging within. They say the most quiet place in a hurricane is in the center of the storm.

I have found encouragement in the saying: "life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass, it's about learning to dance in the rain" but He has increased my hope most through the working of the Holy Spirit and jewels unearthed in the treasure of His Word.

Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea;
and the LORD
swept the sea back by a strong east wind
all night and
turned the sea into dry land, so the waters were divided.
[Ex 14:21 NASB]

Dear Lord Jesus; Whether a long restless night, the darkness of uncertainty or the storm of difficult circumstances, help me to cling to you. May I keep my focus on You, the Author and Perfecter of my faith, for that is the safest place to be when life is challenging my faith. Make me stronger and build upon my character, perseverance, and faith until the work is completed in me. You are my hope, my strength, and my song. Show your compassion and mercy upon this weak vessel and carry me through to the dawn. In faith and thanksgiving I offer this prayer in Christ name, Amen.

Mighty Chuckle

May 1, 2008

"When the righteous see God in action

they'll laugh, they'll sing,

they'll laugh and sing for joy."

[Ps 68:3 Msg]

I like to think God enjoys a good laugh just as much as we do. In fact, I think He loves it so much Himself that He chooses to share it as one of His many gifts - out of His love, as a survival aid, and out of His wisdom to keep us humble and light-hearted. Considering what Jesus had to endure to make our joy complete, I would have to conclude that God places a pretty high value on joy.

He most definitely has provided some pretty amusing things that produce a giggle or two. I imagine a winsome smile as He delights in bringing us divine entertainment. There's the riduculous outward designs of the puffer fish, the praying mantis, preposterous penguin, and the peculiar pelican. What about the cactus, the croak of a frog, or catfish? Some of the sounds we enjoy could possibly be the echo of a good heavenly hoo-ha; like the hysterical hyena, roar of the waves, the cackle of the kookaburra, some tropical monkeys, or even the chirpping of cicadas.

Beyond examples from creation I could even reference historical events to prove my point. His "where are you?" to Adam and Eve is a down right amusing. I mean, come on, He already knows exactly where they are! One of the most comical events in the Old Testament has got to be the Battle of Jericho. God's tactic of war to destroy a city by marching, screaming and blowing horns had to bring forth more than a chortle from the Israelites - let alone the enemy! In reference to the miracle Jesus performed in Cana by turning water into wine [Jn 2:1-11], Fyodor Ostoevsky commented; "He [Jesus] worked his first miracle to help men's gladness". Jesus producing tax money from the mouth of a fish is worthy of a guffaw [Mt 17:26-27]. A real rib-tickler is the notorius pickle of Jonah in the belly of a big fish [Jonah 1:17]. "Take the plank out of your own eye" [Mt 7:3] was a great illustration choice to make His point; but personally I detect a sense of humor in those words. Not only did He spit in a blind man's eyes (as recorded in Mark 8:22-24 )but He then asked him "do you see anything?" My personal favorite is the mental image conjured up at the thought of a herd of pigs flying off a cliff [Mt 8:29-32](after all, Jesus gave the demons exactly what they asked for).

The ultimate creation for God's amusement undoubtedly would have to be humans. I must admit that I can pull some real knee-slapping dooseys right along with the best of them. When I think about some of the whacky, knuckle-headed blunders I've produced (in just one day alone), all I can do is laugh and say "It's all for You, God!"

Let me share just a few memorable moments with you. There were a few summers in the '80's when I worked in northern Michigan. Whenever I traveled the rural roads (whether north, south, east or west) it never failed that I would end up in remote Kalkaska. I still don't know how I did it and I'm not sure I could find it if I actually had to. I've inadvertantly gone off to church barefoot.....twice; worn one blue and one black shoe to work; applied deodorant to my hair; locked my keys in my car - while it was still running. I'll spare you the details of many of my golfing bloopers but will mention the time I ended up on green 15 - while playing hole 7.

Jesus told His disciples; "I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow" [Jn 15:11 NLT]. Joy being a Fruit of the Spirit it is a bi-product of God's fingerprint on our hearts. The Holy Spirit provides the inner joy we possess and God has created a world full of the hilarious for our outward amusement, as well. The very Source of our joy is our great God of grace. He must be so full of abounding, abundant joy because He is able to supply an endless amount of it for all of us to be overflowing with laughter!

"I am overwhelmed with joy in the Lord my God!

For he has dressed me with the clothing of salvation

and draped me in a robe of righteousness."

[Is 61:10 NLT]