OK. We are human, and we are not perfect. I think that is a good thing to remember at all times because it helps keep us humble.
So in regards to that, I'd like to ask you about that special someone in your life. I truly believe we all have one - even though we shouldn't. You know, the person who just rubs you the wrong way. Perhaps you have good reason for them to get under your skin, or it may just be for no reason at all. But for some cause, when they say "hello" you're just sure they meant it the wrong way.
What do you do with that? The feeling and bile that rises within you? Prayer is the first thing that comes to mind, and though it sound easy, it's not. What do we pray for? I'd like to think God meant much of Davidic Scripture like Psalm 35:26. "Let those who rejoice at my misfortune be disgraced and humiliated; let those who exalt themselves over me be clothed with shame and reproach." But read that again. Then I would be rejoicing at their misfortune and they could pray the same about me. That doesn't work.
It's the next two verses that give us clue of how we should pray:
Let those who want my vindication shout for joy and be glad; let them continually say, "The Lord be exalted, who wants His servant's well-being." And my tongue will proclaim Your righteousness, Your praise all day long.
Psalm 35:27-28
What if the person who rubs you the wrong way is a Christian and really has nothing against you. It's just that feeling. There are different reasons why that may be. I have found before, after much soul searching, that honestly I was jealous of something. In one instance, it was something that was wrong with me and I was frustrated in seeing that quality which I longed for displayed so beautifully in them. In that case, the jealously I felt spurred me on to developing that quality. It took a lot of prayer and discipline, but now I respect that person greatly and look at them with gratitude: And they never knew it!
Other times you may not be able to discern any particular reason. Just think of it as a lesson from the Lord in how to deal with all the people He loves. I've also used it to thank God profusely because I can imagine I rub Him the wrong way too many times. Yet He still loves me so much! And we should love those He loves- even when it's hard. It helps give us a new respect for what He has to put up with.
Next time someone annoys you in this way - particularly a sibling in Christ - just say a prayer to the Lord asking Him to give you the ability and strength to love them the way He loves you. After all, Jesus even told us in John 13:35, "By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another."
Who are you known as?
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
W.E.I.R.D.
If you don't utilize it already, I'd like to encourage you to use driving time as God time. Don't call anyone, turn off the music or whatever you have playing, and spend the time talking to and listening to God. Think of yourself as being a captive audience.
Yesterday as I was driving, I told God how I feel like a weird person sometimes. OK, most of the time- and I know many of you who will agree. What's so wrong with that? I felt Him prod. What does it mean to be weird? That got me thinking? In what ways should we be weird? When we have a vibrant, fruitful walk with Jesus Christ, we are called to be different. So why not just except being weird. Of course, I had to come up with an acronym, so I will ask of you today:
Are you W.I.E.R.D?
Are you...
Written in the Book of Life
In the same way, the victor will be dressed in white clothes, and I will never erase his name from the book of life, but will acknowledge his name before My Father and before His angels.
Revelation 3:5
Nothing else you do will matter if you have not surrendered your life to Jesus Christ. It is the first and most important thing, and it always will be. Remember who, and whose, you are.
Involved in the Body of Christ?
1 Corinthians 12, 13, & 14
We are members of a body of believers that can not function well unless all parts of it's body are willing to work. Are you working well in your local body, or do you cause them to seek some pain killers?
So also you - since you are zealous in matters of the spirit, seek to excel in building up the church.
1 Corinthians 14:12
Eternal in Your Perspective?
Brothers, I do not consider myself to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: forgetting what is behind and reaching forward to what is ahead, I pursue as my goal the prize promised by God's heavenly call in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:13-14
For our momentary light affliction is producing for us an absolutely incomparable eternal weight of glory. So we do not focus on what is seen, but on what is unseen; for what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
2 Corinthians 4:17-18
There is just no adding to that. Either we do it, or we don't.
Reading the Word Regularly
But He answered, "It is written: Man must not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of God."
Matthew 4:4
He sent His word and healed them; He rescued them from the Pit.
Psalm 107:20
We can not know what the Lord is directing us to do if we refuse to listen to the Word that He gave us. We are then no longer w.i.e.r.d.; just odd.
Devoted to the Things of God and Not the Things of Man?
And every day they devoted themselves to meeting together in the temple complex, and broke bread from house to house. They ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And every day the Lord added to them those who were being saved.
Acts 2:46-47
When we plan out our days and schedules, are we asking God first in order to bless and glorify Him, or are we asking Him to bless what we have decided to glorify in?
Take some time to discern what the Lord is telling you today. You must also ask yourself if you are willing to be weird for Him. If not, you might want to go back and double check your standing on W.
Yesterday as I was driving, I told God how I feel like a weird person sometimes. OK, most of the time- and I know many of you who will agree. What's so wrong with that? I felt Him prod. What does it mean to be weird? That got me thinking? In what ways should we be weird? When we have a vibrant, fruitful walk with Jesus Christ, we are called to be different. So why not just except being weird. Of course, I had to come up with an acronym, so I will ask of you today:
Are you W.I.E.R.D?
Are you...
Written in the Book of Life
In the same way, the victor will be dressed in white clothes, and I will never erase his name from the book of life, but will acknowledge his name before My Father and before His angels.
Revelation 3:5
Nothing else you do will matter if you have not surrendered your life to Jesus Christ. It is the first and most important thing, and it always will be. Remember who, and whose, you are.
Involved in the Body of Christ?
1 Corinthians 12, 13, & 14
We are members of a body of believers that can not function well unless all parts of it's body are willing to work. Are you working well in your local body, or do you cause them to seek some pain killers?
So also you - since you are zealous in matters of the spirit, seek to excel in building up the church.
1 Corinthians 14:12
Eternal in Your Perspective?
Brothers, I do not consider myself to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: forgetting what is behind and reaching forward to what is ahead, I pursue as my goal the prize promised by God's heavenly call in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:13-14
For our momentary light affliction is producing for us an absolutely incomparable eternal weight of glory. So we do not focus on what is seen, but on what is unseen; for what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
2 Corinthians 4:17-18
There is just no adding to that. Either we do it, or we don't.
Reading the Word Regularly
But He answered, "It is written: Man must not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of God."
Matthew 4:4
He sent His word and healed them; He rescued them from the Pit.
Psalm 107:20
We can not know what the Lord is directing us to do if we refuse to listen to the Word that He gave us. We are then no longer w.i.e.r.d.; just odd.
Devoted to the Things of God and Not the Things of Man?
And every day they devoted themselves to meeting together in the temple complex, and broke bread from house to house. They ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And every day the Lord added to them those who were being saved.
Acts 2:46-47
When we plan out our days and schedules, are we asking God first in order to bless and glorify Him, or are we asking Him to bless what we have decided to glorify in?
Take some time to discern what the Lord is telling you today. You must also ask yourself if you are willing to be weird for Him. If not, you might want to go back and double check your standing on W.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Convicted
Ouch.
I love and hate it when the Lord convicts me over something. I love it because 1.) I know He is growing me, and 2.) I'm listening and not ignoring Him. What I don't like, to be very honest, is having to do something about it. Especially when it's hard.
So here's the deal: No more internet at my house. Yea, I said this was an "ouch". It's not that the internet is a bad thing. In fact, I'd love to have it here fully, but I have been using a neighbor's for a few months now. I do have a neighbor that doesn't mind it being used, but I'm not really sure his is the one I've been using and I've never asked permission myself.
The reason I don't have it here at the house is because it would cost us over $60 a month and there is just no way we could afford it. Trust me- I've check every possibility and because of how far out we are that is the cheapest. So, this post is the last I will use of the borrowed. I found out it is illegal. I had no idea! I just thought it was a politeness thing. (I know I'm a bit naive at times...) This means I will have to go into town to do all my posting for this blog. So here is what I'm asking of you...
Pray that I don't miss many days. I really want Everyday With God to be, well... everyday.
Pray that I am able to get my blogging done in the times available to me. I've been feeling the need to schedule more time during the day and this will force that issue.
Pray that I make it into town more often in order to post! (And that my Panera gift card will never run dry: Rather like the woman with the jars of oil and flour... 1 Kings 17:16)
I tell you these things because I want you to be encouraged when the Lord gives you a difficult task that doesn't really seem to make much of a difference. Follow Him in all righteousness. It will be worth it, and you are not alone. Another reason is that I want you to help keep me accountable. I know how weak I am, and I know that we need each other to help keep straight. So call me on it every once in a while. Ask me if I've been behaving in this matter!
We, as Christians, need one another for prayer, support, encouragement, teaching, accountability, and so much more. Today I am asking for your help AND I'm encouraging you to follow through on what the Lord has been convicting you of. Don't rationalize it away. Obey.
And then ask for support!
I love and hate it when the Lord convicts me over something. I love it because 1.) I know He is growing me, and 2.) I'm listening and not ignoring Him. What I don't like, to be very honest, is having to do something about it. Especially when it's hard.
So here's the deal: No more internet at my house. Yea, I said this was an "ouch". It's not that the internet is a bad thing. In fact, I'd love to have it here fully, but I have been using a neighbor's for a few months now. I do have a neighbor that doesn't mind it being used, but I'm not really sure his is the one I've been using and I've never asked permission myself.
The reason I don't have it here at the house is because it would cost us over $60 a month and there is just no way we could afford it. Trust me- I've check every possibility and because of how far out we are that is the cheapest. So, this post is the last I will use of the borrowed. I found out it is illegal. I had no idea! I just thought it was a politeness thing. (I know I'm a bit naive at times...) This means I will have to go into town to do all my posting for this blog. So here is what I'm asking of you...
Pray that I don't miss many days. I really want Everyday With God to be, well... everyday.
Pray that I am able to get my blogging done in the times available to me. I've been feeling the need to schedule more time during the day and this will force that issue.
Pray that I make it into town more often in order to post! (And that my Panera gift card will never run dry: Rather like the woman with the jars of oil and flour... 1 Kings 17:16)
I tell you these things because I want you to be encouraged when the Lord gives you a difficult task that doesn't really seem to make much of a difference. Follow Him in all righteousness. It will be worth it, and you are not alone. Another reason is that I want you to help keep me accountable. I know how weak I am, and I know that we need each other to help keep straight. So call me on it every once in a while. Ask me if I've been behaving in this matter!
We, as Christians, need one another for prayer, support, encouragement, teaching, accountability, and so much more. Today I am asking for your help AND I'm encouraging you to follow through on what the Lord has been convicting you of. Don't rationalize it away. Obey.
And then ask for support!
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Worship
Did you enjoy worshiping with your brothers and sisters in Christ today?
How much did you prepare for it? What did you spend the most time on? Your lesson? Prayer? Clothing?
Did you genuinely get excited last night?
Why do you go to worship with other believers? Could your give a good explanation to a non believer?
What did you get out of the worship experience this morning? Or more importantly what did you put in?
And let us be concerned about one another in order to promote love and good works, not staying away from our meetings, as some habitually do, but encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.
Hebrews 10:24-25
Your regular gathering with other believers does not have to be a typical Sunday morning. Just make sure you have a time where you come together with a group of fellow believers in order to do just as these verses command. And make sure you come with the right heart, not just the "right" schedule.
How much did you prepare for it? What did you spend the most time on? Your lesson? Prayer? Clothing?
Did you genuinely get excited last night?
Why do you go to worship with other believers? Could your give a good explanation to a non believer?
What did you get out of the worship experience this morning? Or more importantly what did you put in?
And let us be concerned about one another in order to promote love and good works, not staying away from our meetings, as some habitually do, but encouraging each other, and all the more as you see the day drawing near.
Hebrews 10:24-25
Your regular gathering with other believers does not have to be a typical Sunday morning. Just make sure you have a time where you come together with a group of fellow believers in order to do just as these verses command. And make sure you come with the right heart, not just the "right" schedule.
Friday, February 19, 2010
Biblically Inspired Rabbit Trails
Have you ever taken the time to stop when your reading the Bible and question it? I'm not talking about its truth, but why something is there. That happened to me yesterday when in Leviticus. (If you've never done it you should. It really helps to bring Biblical peoples and times to life.) I was reading about the animals the Lord deemed clean or unclean for eating in chapter 11, and was struck by something for the first time. We know all about the unclean pigs, and that goats, sheep and such were acceptable. But have you ever wondered at why the Lord made sure they knew it was OK to eat locusts, katydids, crickets, and grasshoppers? (Leviticus 11:22) I mean seriously- were they that hungry?
I've always accepted the fact the John the Baptist ate nothing but locusts and wild honey while dressed in camel skins (Matthew 3:4), but I always saw him as a bit exotic. So I started thinking: Just how common was it to eat locusts? I mean, are there any recipes? Well, yes. Yes there are. So today I will give you some of the ones I found just in case you decide to mark it off your bucket list the next time a swarm comes your way. Enjoy! Or shall I say bon appetit!
The following recipes were found on jewlicious.com:
I've always accepted the fact the John the Baptist ate nothing but locusts and wild honey while dressed in camel skins (Matthew 3:4), but I always saw him as a bit exotic. So I started thinking: Just how common was it to eat locusts? I mean, are there any recipes? Well, yes. Yes there are. So today I will give you some of the ones I found just in case you decide to mark it off your bucket list the next time a swarm comes your way. Enjoy! Or shall I say bon appetit!
The following recipes were found on jewlicious.com:
Tinjiya (Tswana recipe): remove the wings and hindlegs of the locusts, and boil in a little water until soft. Add salt, if desired, and a little fat and fry until brown. Serve with cooked, dried mealies (corn).
Sikonyane (Swazi recipe): prepare embers and roast the whole locust on the embers. Remove head, wings, and legs, in other words, only the breast part is eaten. The South Sotho people use locusts especially as food for travellers. The heads and last joint of the hindlegs are broken off and the rest laid on the coals to roast. The roasted locusts are ground on a grinding stone to a fine powder. This powder can be kept for long periods of time and is taken along on a journey. Dried locusts are also prepared for the winter months. The legs, when dried, are especially relished for their pleasant taste.
Cambodia: take several dozen locust adults, preferably females, slit the abdomen lengthwise and stuff a peanut inside. Then lightly grill the locusts in a wok or hot frying pan, adding a little oil and salt to taste. Be careful not to overcook or burn them.
Barbecue (grilled): prepare the embers or charcoal. Place about one dozen locusts on a skewer, stabbing each through the centre of the abdomen. If you only want to eat the abdomen, then you may want to take off the legs or wings either before or after cooking. Several skewers of locusts may be required for each person. Place the skewers above the hot embers and grill while turning continuously to avoid burning the locusts until they become golden brown.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
The Chicken Or The Egg?
I love how the Lord works. One of the verses that has been coming to mind for no apparent reason just happened to be in my devotional reading yesterday.
Then He told them, "The Sabbath was made for man and not the man for the Sabbath"...
Mark 2:27
It made me start thinking: How does that apply to us today? What are some of the ways that we have made the laws, or our religion, our master instead of it being there for our benefit? I know there have been times in my life where my quiet time with the Lord has become that way. I've become a slave to it instead of doing it out of love and devotion to my true Master, the Lord. Now, this isn't to say that doing my devotions when I don't feel like it is wrong. What Jesus was asking was a deeper issue: Where does your heart lie in this matter?
Take some time as you go throughout your day, or week, to discover where your heart is in relationship with the Lord and the things of Him. Ask Him to search your heart- to test you- see if there is any offense which needs be corrected in order to be lead on the right paths. (Psalm 139:23-24)
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Pop Tests
Be careful of the advise you give: You may soon have to follow it.
The Lord has been teaching me quite a few lessons lately, so I beg your indulgence as I get through this time. Much of it has not been able to put into words, so I haven't talked about it here. Just know that I'm in "class" full time with Him and as I take these pop quizzes He seems so fond if, I may digress and/or not have much of me on here. That may be a very good thing...
One of the challenges I have been facing currently stems from some advise the Lord had me give someone very dear to me. I know that what I told her was not easy, but I believe with all my heart that the Lord says it is the best way to handle the situation. You just can't go wrong with the Bible- the Word of God. So now that I have claimed it will work with her, the Lord has seen fit for me to test that on myself. Ouch. Yes, it will work: My God is Faithful and True. But it is not easy. I know..., who ever said it would be?
I covet your prayers right now. And I thank you. May you be as blessed in this ministry you can do for me, as I have been by you all in the past by your words of encouragement and love.
Then I saw heaven opened, and there was a white horse! Its rider is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war.
Revelation 19:11
How reassuring to know He's fighting for me...
The Lord has been teaching me quite a few lessons lately, so I beg your indulgence as I get through this time. Much of it has not been able to put into words, so I haven't talked about it here. Just know that I'm in "class" full time with Him and as I take these pop quizzes He seems so fond if, I may digress and/or not have much of me on here. That may be a very good thing...
One of the challenges I have been facing currently stems from some advise the Lord had me give someone very dear to me. I know that what I told her was not easy, but I believe with all my heart that the Lord says it is the best way to handle the situation. You just can't go wrong with the Bible- the Word of God. So now that I have claimed it will work with her, the Lord has seen fit for me to test that on myself. Ouch. Yes, it will work: My God is Faithful and True. But it is not easy. I know..., who ever said it would be?
I covet your prayers right now. And I thank you. May you be as blessed in this ministry you can do for me, as I have been by you all in the past by your words of encouragement and love.
Then I saw heaven opened, and there was a white horse! Its rider is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war.
Revelation 19:11
How reassuring to know He's fighting for me...
Monday, February 15, 2010
Help For Insanity
Today take some time to relish the second part of Psalm 34. (Read yesterday's post first if you haven't already.) This section gives guidance and encouragement. Once again, read and reread it slowly. Ponder it. Ask the Lord what He wants to show you by reading His Word. See if you can find the Messianic prophecy as well.
I will let you know that I have been clinging to this section recently as though it were my life-vest while shipwrecked at sea. I pray you are blessed by it as well today.
Psalm 34:11-22
Come children, listen to me;
I will teach you the fear of the Lord.
Who is the man who delights on life,
loving a long life to enjoy what is good?
Keep your tongue from evil
and your lips from deceitful speech.
Turn away from evil and do what is good;
seek peace and pursue it.
The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
and His ears are open to their cry for help.
The face of the Lord is set
against those who do what is evil,
to erase all memory of them from the earth.
The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears,
and delivers them from all their troubles.
The Lord is near the brokenhearted;
He saves those crushed in spirit.
Many adversities come
to the one who is righteous,
but the Lord delivers him from them all.
He protects all his bones;
not one of them is broken.
Evil brings death to the sinner,
and those who hate the righteous
will be punished.
The Lord redeems the life of His servants,
and all who take refuge in Him
will not be punished.
I will let you know that I have been clinging to this section recently as though it were my life-vest while shipwrecked at sea. I pray you are blessed by it as well today.
Psalm 34:11-22
Come children, listen to me;
I will teach you the fear of the Lord.
Who is the man who delights on life,
loving a long life to enjoy what is good?
Keep your tongue from evil
and your lips from deceitful speech.
Turn away from evil and do what is good;
seek peace and pursue it.
The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
and His ears are open to their cry for help.
The face of the Lord is set
against those who do what is evil,
to erase all memory of them from the earth.
The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears,
and delivers them from all their troubles.
The Lord is near the brokenhearted;
He saves those crushed in spirit.
Many adversities come
to the one who is righteous,
but the Lord delivers him from them all.
He protects all his bones;
not one of them is broken.
Evil brings death to the sinner,
and those who hate the righteous
will be punished.
The Lord redeems the life of His servants,
and all who take refuge in Him
will not be punished.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Pretending To Be Insane
I have discovered my new favorite Psalm. It's a Davidic Psalm entitled "The Lord Delivers His Own: Concerning David, when he pretended to be insane in the presence of Abimelech, who drove him out, and he departed." I just love that. Not only is it appropriate when your pretending to be insane, but also when you really are there...
I want to break this Psalm, 34, up into two parts. Today, I'd like you to meditate on the first half. (All that means is- think about it, and try to recall portions of it throughout the day to ponder and ask the Lord about.)
Praise Him for who He is and what He does for us!
Psalm 34: 1-10
I will praise the Lord at all times;
His praise will always be on my lips.
I will boast in the Lord;
the humble will hear and be glad.
Proclaim with me the Lord's greatness;
let us exalt His name together.
I sought the Lord and He answered me
and delivered me from all my fears.
Those who look to Him are radiant with joy;
their faces will never be ashamed.
This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him
and saved him from all his troubles.
The angel of the Lord encamps
around those who fear Him, and rescues them.
Taste and see that the Lord is good.
How happy is the man who takes refuge in Him!
Fear the Lord, you saints,
for those who fear Him lack nothing.
Young lions lack food and go hungry,
but those who seek the Lord
will not lack anything good.
I want to break this Psalm, 34, up into two parts. Today, I'd like you to meditate on the first half. (All that means is- think about it, and try to recall portions of it throughout the day to ponder and ask the Lord about.)
Praise Him for who He is and what He does for us!
Psalm 34: 1-10
I will praise the Lord at all times;
His praise will always be on my lips.
I will boast in the Lord;
the humble will hear and be glad.
Proclaim with me the Lord's greatness;
let us exalt His name together.
I sought the Lord and He answered me
and delivered me from all my fears.
Those who look to Him are radiant with joy;
their faces will never be ashamed.
This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him
and saved him from all his troubles.
The angel of the Lord encamps
around those who fear Him, and rescues them.
Taste and see that the Lord is good.
How happy is the man who takes refuge in Him!
Fear the Lord, you saints,
for those who fear Him lack nothing.
Young lions lack food and go hungry,
but those who seek the Lord
will not lack anything good.
Friday, February 12, 2010
That's Good To Know In Times Like These
A man's steps are established by the Lord,
and He takes pleasure in his way.
and He takes pleasure in his way.
Though he falls, he will not be overwhelmed,
because the Lord holds his hand.
because the Lord holds his hand.
Psalm 37:23-24
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Not My Responsibility
I have a difficult time accepting that I am not responsible for other people's walk with God.
I know it sounds foolish and simple, but it's not to me. I have such a burden and desire to see people grow in the Lord, that it frustrates me to no end. Then, what frustrates me even more is knowing that the same can be said for me. I remember the times that people told me something over and over about the Lord – His might, His glory, His love, His love, His compassion – but I didn't make the tough decisions in order to receive them fully. I also realize that I'm not there myself yet. I know I have a very long way to go in my relationship with God.
It's just that I burn with jealousy for them to experience Him in the ways I have been blessed with! The ways I know He desires to delight us with. I want to scream, “Make the tough choice. Stop making excuses. He's worth it- He's worth all of it!” But so many don't study His Word- they take the preacher's word. They don't listen to Him- they humbly demand. They don't ask Him to direct them in every decision- they whine that He needs to bless the ones they think make the most sense...
When will we understand? God doesn't make sense. He makes miracles.
It would be so much easier to understand and approach with the Truth if they knew nothing or little about God as pagans do. But they know nothing or little about God as Christians, and to be honest... it's by choice.
I'm not judging. Really. I'm pleading. There are so many around me who do love the Lord, so much. They are an inspiration and a blessing, but living in the “buckle of the Bible belt” I see way too many of those I described. They are who I cry out to God for. I ask the Lord to search my heart, to make sure that I've not fallen into the same stale trap. I know I could at any time and have to remain vigilant that I don't. But I've also had to realize that I can't do anything about others...except, tell them about the Truth whenever possible, try to be an example, and accept that God's got it all under control.
Because that would be a miracle.
I know it sounds foolish and simple, but it's not to me. I have such a burden and desire to see people grow in the Lord, that it frustrates me to no end. Then, what frustrates me even more is knowing that the same can be said for me. I remember the times that people told me something over and over about the Lord – His might, His glory, His love, His love, His compassion – but I didn't make the tough decisions in order to receive them fully. I also realize that I'm not there myself yet. I know I have a very long way to go in my relationship with God.
It's just that I burn with jealousy for them to experience Him in the ways I have been blessed with! The ways I know He desires to delight us with. I want to scream, “Make the tough choice. Stop making excuses. He's worth it- He's worth all of it!” But so many don't study His Word- they take the preacher's word. They don't listen to Him- they humbly demand. They don't ask Him to direct them in every decision- they whine that He needs to bless the ones they think make the most sense...
When will we understand? God doesn't make sense. He makes miracles.
It would be so much easier to understand and approach with the Truth if they knew nothing or little about God as pagans do. But they know nothing or little about God as Christians, and to be honest... it's by choice.
I'm not judging. Really. I'm pleading. There are so many around me who do love the Lord, so much. They are an inspiration and a blessing, but living in the “buckle of the Bible belt” I see way too many of those I described. They are who I cry out to God for. I ask the Lord to search my heart, to make sure that I've not fallen into the same stale trap. I know I could at any time and have to remain vigilant that I don't. But I've also had to realize that I can't do anything about others...except, tell them about the Truth whenever possible, try to be an example, and accept that God's got it all under control.
Because that would be a miracle.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
I Was A Master
The Lord showed me something I didn't expect yesterday: I am a master escape artist.
Yea. I wondered what He meant by that too. Trust me, isn't not a compliment...
After a difficult, yet rewarding day with the Lord, I was beginning to become a bit overwhelmed. As I sat there trying to calm my brain and emotions down, I suddenly decided to go read a fiction book. That's when the Lord asked me in a surprisingly firm voice, "Why?"
"Uh... I don't really know" I thought. "To just get away for a bit and not think about it?"
"Stop escaping, and just come to Me with it." Before I knew it, He was taking me on a review of my life, showing me all the little escape methods I have used over the years: Books, movies, games, shows, others, boys, alcohol, a vivid imagination... There were so many! And they played on and on. I was so good at it! It's not that all those things are bad, the problem was with how I was used them at times. I even remembered as a teenager that my favorite part of the day was bedtime. Why? Because I could lay there for as long as I wanted making up any scenario and storyline I wanted. I didn't even have to be me!
Now that's not to say I never brought things before the Lord. I have many, many times, but not always in the right way. He showed me it was more like I threw them at His feet while running to my escape method- whatever it was. Now, if it got really, really bad I laid it at His feet the right way and spent my time begging....I mean in prayer...., but I did not honor Him with the first-fruits of my devotion.
As I practiced escaping to Him today I noticed a very pleasant difference. Not only was my reason for escape lessened, but He comforted and taught me as well. But you know what the most amazing part was? I received all this blessing and I still got be me!
Ask the Lord to reveal to you in what ways you've been escaping. I would never have thought they were there before He revealed them to me. He will reveal them to you as well.
Yea. I wondered what He meant by that too. Trust me, isn't not a compliment...
After a difficult, yet rewarding day with the Lord, I was beginning to become a bit overwhelmed. As I sat there trying to calm my brain and emotions down, I suddenly decided to go read a fiction book. That's when the Lord asked me in a surprisingly firm voice, "Why?"
"Uh... I don't really know" I thought. "To just get away for a bit and not think about it?"
"Stop escaping, and just come to Me with it." Before I knew it, He was taking me on a review of my life, showing me all the little escape methods I have used over the years: Books, movies, games, shows, others, boys, alcohol, a vivid imagination... There were so many! And they played on and on. I was so good at it! It's not that all those things are bad, the problem was with how I was used them at times. I even remembered as a teenager that my favorite part of the day was bedtime. Why? Because I could lay there for as long as I wanted making up any scenario and storyline I wanted. I didn't even have to be me!
Now that's not to say I never brought things before the Lord. I have many, many times, but not always in the right way. He showed me it was more like I threw them at His feet while running to my escape method- whatever it was. Now, if it got really, really bad I laid it at His feet the right way and spent my time begging....I mean in prayer...., but I did not honor Him with the first-fruits of my devotion.
As I practiced escaping to Him today I noticed a very pleasant difference. Not only was my reason for escape lessened, but He comforted and taught me as well. But you know what the most amazing part was? I received all this blessing and I still got be me!
Ask the Lord to reveal to you in what ways you've been escaping. I would never have thought they were there before He revealed them to me. He will reveal them to you as well.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Hearing
I have entered a time a prayer with the Lord. He is teaching me who He is and has invited me to listen to Him. Now, it's not as holy as it sounds to be honest. I've been talking to Him all day, true, but most of my time has been spent in reading fiction. I have read my Bible as well, but I've enjoyed listening to Him in the "everyday" stuff as well. There have also been quite a few people who have had the Lord speak through them to me as well, though they didn't know it. I'm relishing this time.
The annoying thing is that I and my daughter are also sick. She's had a fever and the stomach flu, and I'm on the verge. What's interesting is that God is speaking heavily even through that. I'm being saturated with Him and it's not how He usually does it. Before, when the Lord was teaching me so much, there was an excitement and a "high" of sorts. That's the best way I can describe it. This time it's more of a preparation. I can't really describe it other than it's a bit somber, yet comforting.
Hear some of the Words He has spoken to me...
Listen, Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is One. 5 Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. 6 These words that I am giving you today are to be in your heart. 7 Repeat them to your children. Talk about them when you sit in your house and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. 8 Bind them as a sign on your hand and let them be a symbol on your forehead. 9 Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.
Deuteronomy 6:4-9
The annoying thing is that I and my daughter are also sick. She's had a fever and the stomach flu, and I'm on the verge. What's interesting is that God is speaking heavily even through that. I'm being saturated with Him and it's not how He usually does it. Before, when the Lord was teaching me so much, there was an excitement and a "high" of sorts. That's the best way I can describe it. This time it's more of a preparation. I can't really describe it other than it's a bit somber, yet comforting.
Hear some of the Words He has spoken to me...
Listen, Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is One. 5 Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. 6 These words that I am giving you today are to be in your heart. 7 Repeat them to your children. Talk about them when you sit in your house and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. 8 Bind them as a sign on your hand and let them be a symbol on your forehead. 9 Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.
Deuteronomy 6:4-9
Monday, February 8, 2010
This Is Not A Test....
Why do we think of Christianity as a test? Yea! I marked the right answers God, and I meant it! Now I can relax and forget all I've binged on..... In Your Name, of course.....
Living as a child of God is more like a journey. Just because I've been heading in the right direction most of the time doesn't necessarily mean that I'll be fine. I have to finish in the right spot. 2 Timothy 4:7
Dear Father in heaven, You know my weaknesses. You know where I so often fail. As Your child I am asking You to always lead me in the right direction so that I may finish well. Sovereign God, I beg and allow You to do whatever it takes to keep me there. Your Word promises me that when I am weak, You are my strength. There is much weakness here for You to show off Your strength! Use me as You will: Your beloved child and bond-slave.
Living as a child of God is more like a journey. Just because I've been heading in the right direction most of the time doesn't necessarily mean that I'll be fine. I have to finish in the right spot. 2 Timothy 4:7
Dear Father in heaven, You know my weaknesses. You know where I so often fail. As Your child I am asking You to always lead me in the right direction so that I may finish well. Sovereign God, I beg and allow You to do whatever it takes to keep me there. Your Word promises me that when I am weak, You are my strength. There is much weakness here for You to show off Your strength! Use me as You will: Your beloved child and bond-slave.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Listening
It's funny that when I think of listening to God, it either seems too simple or impossibly difficult. I can never decided just which, and I think that's because it's both. Simply put, I just have faith and take the time to seek Him. The difficult aspect comes in weeding everything that is not God, and obeying only Him. So that's what I've been practicing lately. I've been trying to make the conscious effort to ask Him about every decision and action I make within the day, and then figuring out which He prefers. And let me tell you- it's not easy.
The challenge isn't so much in knowing which thing to do or not to do, but in the trials He's giving me to face. I ask God to teach me to hear His voice and obey, so He's putting me in difficult situations where I can best learn. Who builds muscles without exercise?
So pray for my sore muscles as I build up. (My brain and heart count as muscles, right?) And I challenge you to start actively listening as well.
When you are tender and sore from the workout, I'll give you a bit of the Epsom salt He gave me to soak in:
The instruction of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul;
the testimony of the Lord is trustworthy, making the inexperienced wise.
Psalm 19:7
The challenge isn't so much in knowing which thing to do or not to do, but in the trials He's giving me to face. I ask God to teach me to hear His voice and obey, so He's putting me in difficult situations where I can best learn. Who builds muscles without exercise?
So pray for my sore muscles as I build up. (My brain and heart count as muscles, right?) And I challenge you to start actively listening as well.
When you are tender and sore from the workout, I'll give you a bit of the Epsom salt He gave me to soak in:
The instruction of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul;
the testimony of the Lord is trustworthy, making the inexperienced wise.
Psalm 19:7
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