I wonder if Peter had any inkling just how much his life would change when he met the Messiah. I wonder if he knew just how many times his strength, his faith, his obedience would be tested.
The very first time they met, Jesus gave him a new name. A new definition of who he would become - a foreshadowing, if you will, of just how Peter would change. Simon became Peter - the rock. But it didn't happen right away. Just like most of us, Peter didn't always learn things right away - but one night he quickly learned the lesson of obedience, faith, and confession. He also learned just how abundantly Jesus would provide for him in return.
In Luke 5, Jesus is on the shore of lake Gennesaret and there is a very large crowd gathered there. They wanted to hear him speak on the Word of God. Jesus notices Peter his boat...cleaning up after a fruitless night of fishing. I can imagine that Peter is tired, worn, discouraged and ready to get away from that boat and go home to rest. Can you? He's probably thinking of a bit of a meal...some fresh bread, a little wine, some fruit. But wait, what's that?
Jesus has walked up to his boat, and gesturing at the crowd, he climbs right in and asks Peter if he could take him out on the water so he could talk to the people. No telling how long Jesus spoke while Peter sits and waits...and then, THEN, when he finishes, Jesus tells him to do one more thing.
When He had finished speaking, He said to Simon, “Put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch.” (Luke 5:4, NASB)
Say what, now? But Jesus, we fished all night...for nothing! Peter's voice has to be just a bit incredulous...kind of "are you kidding me?" But he must have seen something on Jesus' face...something in his eyes...his demeanor, because Peter turns right around and says, " but I will do as you say, and I will put down the nets." That's obedience. That's faith. Somehow Peter knows this man wouldn't be making a fool out of him. Somehow Peter sees that this man he just met is a man of integrity, a man worthy of trust.
And so those nets go in the water, and next thing Peter knows...they are filled to overflowing. They are so full, Peter has to call for help to pull them up. Those fish fill not just Peter's boat, but a second one as well - to the point that they are beginning to sink as they carry the load back to shore.
Abundant. Overflowing. Gifts of grace. Peter obeyed, Jesus graced. Peter had faith, and Jesus did not disappoint. What can we learn from Peter? What areas in our lives are not being led by obedience? Where is our faith faltering? Are we willing to trust Jesus, even when the odds are against us?
Try putting your nets out in obedience...in faith...and see where God takes you next....
Showing posts with label Faith. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Faith. Show all posts
Monday, December 8, 2014
Thursday, October 24, 2013
31 Days - Joy in Compassion
In the last few years, I have been sponsoring children through Compassion. (If you look down the right side of my page here, you will find a link to the Compassion website.) It is something I wanted to do for a long time because of my love for children and my wish to give. I can't tell you the number of times God has provided people in my life who have financially assisted me and my family. I have this great desire in me to give to those in need as well - not only because of God's command to love others, but because of the gratitude I have for the help and love that has been given to me over the years.
I started with one child - her name is Grelty and she shares her birthday with my mother. This sweet young girl has asked if she can call me "Mama Kelly." I can't even tell you the joy that brings to my heart. I receive the sweetest letters from her, penned in her own hand and translated. That I get to participate in this small way in her life is such a blessing to me! And I feel that I am answering God's call to reach out with compassion to those in need.
Colossians 3:12
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
Isaiah 58:6-8
6 “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen:
to loose the chains of injustice
and untie the cords of the yoke,
to set the oppressed free
and break every yoke?
7 Is it not to share your food with the hungry
and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—
when you see the naked, to clothe them,
and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?
8 Then your light will break forth like the dawn,
and your healing will quickly appear;
then your righteousness will go before you,
and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard.
Colossians 3:12
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
I couldn't really afford it when I chose my darling little Godless in Tanzania to also sponsor. I looked at his picture day after day. My heart longing to help take care of him...my wallet telling me that there was no way. One morning, I checked to see if he was still there in the list of children waiting to be sponsored...I had told myself that if he was still there on Valentine's day, I would click that button to claim him. This was January...and that morning, it seemed...he was gone. Claimed. My heart broke...and rejoiced for him at the same time. But I checked one more time and found him....those sad eyes in that dark black face, no smile, thin little limbs wearing clothes that hung on his frame. I immediately clicked that button and prayed that God would give me the means to pay for one more child.
And He has. The letters from Godless often come with drawings he has done for me. Each one makes me smile as my finger traces the lines he has drawn - often an airplane or a house. This sweet boy is learning that Jesus loves him...and I get to tell him that.
6 “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen:
to loose the chains of injustice
and untie the cords of the yoke,
to set the oppressed free
and break every yoke?
7 Is it not to share your food with the hungry
and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—
when you see the naked, to clothe them,
and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?
8 Then your light will break forth like the dawn,
and your healing will quickly appear;
then your righteousness will go before you,
and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard.
Several months ago, I felt God telling me it was time to step out in greater faith for one more child. I was at a Beth Moore conference and Compassion was a partner that weekend...they brought packets to find sponsors for more children in need. As I was walking out I happened to look at the face and the name on the packet a Compassion volunteer held up...and I couldn't get it in my hands fast enough. So now, I get to share the love, compassion and joy of the Lord with little Carlos.
The money I give provides food, clothing, medical attention, and help with school for these children. They get to attend activities at their local Compassion project where they learn about God and receive help they need. The money I give stretches my own budget - but also stretches my faith as I trust that God will provide it each month.
I have received...so do I give. Might you also take a look at some of the children at Compassion? Might there be some children in your own community that you could provide for? There is joy in giving; there is joy in compassion.
Sunday, October 20, 2013
31 Days - Joy in trials
Did you read my blog post title? I know, I hear ya...joy in trials? I've got to be joking, right? Did you read that right? Joy in trials? You're thinking maybe I have lost my silly little pollyana mind. I'm not. You did. I haven't.
There's a LOT of bad things that can happen to a person. A lot of stress, a lot of heartache, a lot of pain. Things that make you feel like God can't possibly be watching or He would have done something to stop it. Things that make you feel like you are just done...or undone. Things that seem like you can't ever get out from under it all...like you just got your feet under you and WHAM, they get knocked out again.
We all have our stories. We all have our hurts. We all have our pains. They are big, and small, and very real. Sometimes we get through them and sometimes it feels like we never will. Look around...everyone you see is facing or has faced trials of many kinds. Even that gal down the street who always looks so pulled together, calm and confident...you may not see them, but she has scars and bruises in her life, too.
Here's a Word from the book of James. I have almost memorized it so that I can hold it close to my heart for those times when I just want to say, "What, God? Really? Why me?"
James 1:2-4
2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
The first time I read this verse, I was incredulous. I was amazed by the very idea that someone could ever find joy in trials. Yet, as I've contemplated this idea, and observed people around me and how they "deal" with things in their lives...I've come to realize it's possible. That what James is saying here is true. When we are under fire, being tested, facing those trials that should be knocking us to our knees and keeping us there...we can find the strength of faith to persevere. We who follow Christ need only look to Christ and His example.
What did Jesus do when things were difficult or overwhelming? He went to a quiet place and prayed. He asked His Father for strength. He prayed for God's will. He sought out God's wisdom. He spent time with His Father.
You see, Jesus knew, and you can know, that trials and troubles are a time to connect with God. A time to remember His faithfulness. A time to stop trying to do everything yourself...and let God be in control. A time to grow and mature in faith.
And how do you find joy? I'm no expert...I'm still working on this, too. But I believe that just knowing that I am never alone makes a huge difference. No matter what it FEELS like, in Christ, we are NEVER alone. He is always there....He promises this...and Jesus does not lie, nor does He break promises. He is beside us, in front of us, behind us. He is ALWAYS there.
I also believe that it is necessary to spend time in prayer...to keep our own connection to Him in place. We tend to let go...God doesn't. I am convinced that the worst thing to do in trouble is to let go of Him. To try to go it alone. Instead...keep that communication line open 24/7.
It's important to remember...really sit and take some time to remember...how God has taken care of you in the past. Remember the blessings. Remember the rescues. Remember the miracles. I can't tell you how many times I have looked back over times in my life that seemed just too horrible at the time...and then I realized just how much I learned from those times. Just how much strength I gained from those times. Just how much I grew in maturity in my faith because I persevered WITH God.
Maybe you won't see the joy right away. Maybe it will take some effort to choose the joy. Maybe you will feel like giving up. But beloved friend, I promise you...God will hold on to you and not let you go no matter how long the trouble lasts. He hears your prayers even when it FEELS like He is not answering. He knows your needs. Trust that He is there. That He will give you strength to go on. That He will see you through the trial. If your faith feels like it's not strong enough, ask Him for more. He will give it. If you feel the need for wisdom, ask Him for it. He will give it.
James 1:5
5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.
You are not alone. And there can be joy in trials.
Psalm 73:23
Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand.
Matthew 28:20b
And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.
There's a LOT of bad things that can happen to a person. A lot of stress, a lot of heartache, a lot of pain. Things that make you feel like God can't possibly be watching or He would have done something to stop it. Things that make you feel like you are just done...or undone. Things that seem like you can't ever get out from under it all...like you just got your feet under you and WHAM, they get knocked out again.
We all have our stories. We all have our hurts. We all have our pains. They are big, and small, and very real. Sometimes we get through them and sometimes it feels like we never will. Look around...everyone you see is facing or has faced trials of many kinds. Even that gal down the street who always looks so pulled together, calm and confident...you may not see them, but she has scars and bruises in her life, too.
Here's a Word from the book of James. I have almost memorized it so that I can hold it close to my heart for those times when I just want to say, "What, God? Really? Why me?"
James 1:2-4
2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
The first time I read this verse, I was incredulous. I was amazed by the very idea that someone could ever find joy in trials. Yet, as I've contemplated this idea, and observed people around me and how they "deal" with things in their lives...I've come to realize it's possible. That what James is saying here is true. When we are under fire, being tested, facing those trials that should be knocking us to our knees and keeping us there...we can find the strength of faith to persevere. We who follow Christ need only look to Christ and His example.
What did Jesus do when things were difficult or overwhelming? He went to a quiet place and prayed. He asked His Father for strength. He prayed for God's will. He sought out God's wisdom. He spent time with His Father.
You see, Jesus knew, and you can know, that trials and troubles are a time to connect with God. A time to remember His faithfulness. A time to stop trying to do everything yourself...and let God be in control. A time to grow and mature in faith.
And how do you find joy? I'm no expert...I'm still working on this, too. But I believe that just knowing that I am never alone makes a huge difference. No matter what it FEELS like, in Christ, we are NEVER alone. He is always there....He promises this...and Jesus does not lie, nor does He break promises. He is beside us, in front of us, behind us. He is ALWAYS there.
I also believe that it is necessary to spend time in prayer...to keep our own connection to Him in place. We tend to let go...God doesn't. I am convinced that the worst thing to do in trouble is to let go of Him. To try to go it alone. Instead...keep that communication line open 24/7.
It's important to remember...really sit and take some time to remember...how God has taken care of you in the past. Remember the blessings. Remember the rescues. Remember the miracles. I can't tell you how many times I have looked back over times in my life that seemed just too horrible at the time...and then I realized just how much I learned from those times. Just how much strength I gained from those times. Just how much I grew in maturity in my faith because I persevered WITH God.
Maybe you won't see the joy right away. Maybe it will take some effort to choose the joy. Maybe you will feel like giving up. But beloved friend, I promise you...God will hold on to you and not let you go no matter how long the trouble lasts. He hears your prayers even when it FEELS like He is not answering. He knows your needs. Trust that He is there. That He will give you strength to go on. That He will see you through the trial. If your faith feels like it's not strong enough, ask Him for more. He will give it. If you feel the need for wisdom, ask Him for it. He will give it.
James 1:5
5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.
You are not alone. And there can be joy in trials.
Psalm 73:23
Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand.
Matthew 28:20b
And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.
Monday, March 11, 2013
Joy and gratitude
I have to admit, my attitude lately has been rather stinky...not so joyful, not so positive, but really rather stinky.
The sun's been shining.
My kids are all healthy and doing well in school.
My bills are paid.
I have a comfortable, warm place to live.
People who love and support me.
ah...and there it is...I've been forgetting to be grateful.
I've been forgetting to look at the positive and instead dwelling too much on the negative....the $5 change the kid at the concert forgot to give back to me and I forgot to get...the cost of this, that and the other that threatens to suck my bank account dry...the lack of sleep that makes me drag...
So let's take a look at some positives and get back to being "thankful always"...
219. for the shining sun and the warming up days
220. for the signs of spring - bulbs almost ready to bloom, geese flying back to the area, birds singing in the trees in the early morning
221. my kids are all healthy
222. ...and doing well in school
223. tuition is due for the next quarter at the community college...and I don't know how it will be paid but I do know that this is a good opportunity for faith and trust...
224. my other bills, however, are paid and up to date!
225. I do have a comfortable, warm, affordable place to live my days and rest my nights
226. I have a job that I love going to each day...
227. ...with people I enjoy spending my work days with...
228. ...doing ministry
229. I have family, a boyfriend, and many friends who love and support me.
230. my training to be a Christian Life Coach is going well and I'm excited about this new opportunity!
231. I got to see an excellent concert at my oldest son's university last night
232. ...and inadvertently gave an extra donation to their music program. :)
Oh hey! That's better! There's a loosening in the chest, a lightening of the spirit, a little lift to the corners of the mouth...thank you, dear Father, for all the many blessings.
The sun's been shining.
My kids are all healthy and doing well in school.
My bills are paid.
I have a comfortable, warm place to live.
People who love and support me.
ah...and there it is...I've been forgetting to be grateful.
I've been forgetting to look at the positive and instead dwelling too much on the negative....the $5 change the kid at the concert forgot to give back to me and I forgot to get...the cost of this, that and the other that threatens to suck my bank account dry...the lack of sleep that makes me drag...
So let's take a look at some positives and get back to being "thankful always"...
219. for the shining sun and the warming up days
220. for the signs of spring - bulbs almost ready to bloom, geese flying back to the area, birds singing in the trees in the early morning
221. my kids are all healthy
222. ...and doing well in school
223. tuition is due for the next quarter at the community college...and I don't know how it will be paid but I do know that this is a good opportunity for faith and trust...
224. my other bills, however, are paid and up to date!
225. I do have a comfortable, warm, affordable place to live my days and rest my nights
226. I have a job that I love going to each day...
227. ...with people I enjoy spending my work days with...
228. ...doing ministry
229. I have family, a boyfriend, and many friends who love and support me.
230. my training to be a Christian Life Coach is going well and I'm excited about this new opportunity!
231. I got to see an excellent concert at my oldest son's university last night
232. ...and inadvertently gave an extra donation to their music program. :)
Oh hey! That's better! There's a loosening in the chest, a lightening of the spirit, a little lift to the corners of the mouth...thank you, dear Father, for all the many blessings.
Thursday, March 7, 2013
Faith, Joy, Love...values...
What are your values? My top three are faith, joy, and love. I also highly value integrity, excellence and creativity.
See, here's what's been on my mind a lot lately (and I have no idea if this is going to make any sense because it's been swirling around in my head in a crazy whirlpool kind of way)...we all have core values. Those things we feel are important to the way we live our lives. But I wonder...do we actually live our lives by them? Or judge others by how they live according to OUR own values? Everyone is different. God made us that way on purpose. So that we all have different gifts, values, the things we offer the world. He did that so that we can all work together...as if in one body.
Romans 12:3-5
3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. 4 For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.
So....I think what is bothering me this week, is we each have our own values to live by...yet, we often forget to let those guide our behavior. AND at the same time, we use OUR values to judge others...when that truly isn't fair for them. God blesses us differently, built us differently on purpose.
We need to think long and hard on our own values and gifts and see if they ARE truly guiding the way we live for God. I value faith, joy and love...so, you should see those values shining out in my life. You may value peace, truth, and integrity...so the people around you should see those in the way you treat others. The way we behave...the way we speak...the way we serve our Lord...
If what we do isn't guided by our values we find we are in stress or conflict. We struggle with doing the right thing. We have a hard time making decisions. We forget to seek the Lord's wisdom. What would life look like if we lived according to the values God instilled in us?
See, here's what's been on my mind a lot lately (and I have no idea if this is going to make any sense because it's been swirling around in my head in a crazy whirlpool kind of way)...we all have core values. Those things we feel are important to the way we live our lives. But I wonder...do we actually live our lives by them? Or judge others by how they live according to OUR own values? Everyone is different. God made us that way on purpose. So that we all have different gifts, values, the things we offer the world. He did that so that we can all work together...as if in one body.
Romans 12:3-5
3 For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. 4 For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.
So....I think what is bothering me this week, is we each have our own values to live by...yet, we often forget to let those guide our behavior. AND at the same time, we use OUR values to judge others...when that truly isn't fair for them. God blesses us differently, built us differently on purpose.
We need to think long and hard on our own values and gifts and see if they ARE truly guiding the way we live for God. I value faith, joy and love...so, you should see those values shining out in my life. You may value peace, truth, and integrity...so the people around you should see those in the way you treat others. The way we behave...the way we speak...the way we serve our Lord...
If what we do isn't guided by our values we find we are in stress or conflict. We struggle with doing the right thing. We have a hard time making decisions. We forget to seek the Lord's wisdom. What would life look like if we lived according to the values God instilled in us?
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