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 Trust. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Trust. Show all posts
Monday, December 8, 2014
Sunday, November 24, 2013
Repost: Give thanks in ALL circumstances
Today I'd like to share a post from September 24, 2011 originally posted here...
17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
Give thanks in all circumstances. All? Really? Yep, that's what it says - in all circumstances. It's easy to give thanks when things go well. When we are being treated well, when good things happen, when we receive above and beyond our expectations, when the sun is shining and there are no storm clouds on life's horizon. It's easy to smile, or jump up and down in joy, lift our hands to God and say "Thank you, God. Thank YOU!"
But what about when things aren't so great? What about when life seems to be about tearing you down instead of building you up? What about when those bad things that only happen to other people happen to you? What about when your family members turn their backs on you or your friends suddenly don't want to spend time with you any more? What about when you lose your job all of sudden or your car is gone? What about those times?
How can you say thanks for the times of pain and suffering?
Have you ever looked back on one of those times and realized that in the end, it was a blessing in disguise? That you learned something big that will affect how you live your life in the future? What if, through that difficult experience, you gained knowledge to help someone else who might be going through the very same situation? What if it opened your eyes to see things from someone else's point of view? What if it taught you something about yourself that needed to change?
"In all circumstances" doesn't mean just the good times, but also the not so good, and yes, even the bad times. Give thanks in all circumstances. Hate doing those humdrum chores around the house? At least you have a house....or dishes to wash...or food to eat off those dishes you have to wash. What about when the car breaks down...AGAIN...but you have friends you can call who will give you a ride, or loan you a car, or even just listen to your frustration and empathize. The chronic pain you suffer makes you tired and maybe a little blue...but maybe someday someone will cross your path who you can help through the same kind of pain.
We don't know where all these situations and circumstances will ultimately take us. But we can still give thanks for God's presence, for His undying love, for His foresight and knowledge of how He will use all these things for good in some way. Jesus came to our earth as a human being to share in all these things with us. He's been there. He understands fully what it means to be human, to hurt, to fear, to worry. He understands the emotions we feel. He gets the anger. He knows. And He is there to help us get through all those things.
So give thanks in all circumstances...and trust Him.
*************************
1 Thessalonians 5:17-18 NIV
Give thanks in all circumstances. All? Really? Yep, that's what it says - in all circumstances. It's easy to give thanks when things go well. When we are being treated well, when good things happen, when we receive above and beyond our expectations, when the sun is shining and there are no storm clouds on life's horizon. It's easy to smile, or jump up and down in joy, lift our hands to God and say "Thank you, God. Thank YOU!"
But what about when things aren't so great? What about when life seems to be about tearing you down instead of building you up? What about when those bad things that only happen to other people happen to you? What about when your family members turn their backs on you or your friends suddenly don't want to spend time with you any more? What about when you lose your job all of sudden or your car is gone? What about those times?
How can you say thanks for the times of pain and suffering?
Have you ever looked back on one of those times and realized that in the end, it was a blessing in disguise? That you learned something big that will affect how you live your life in the future? What if, through that difficult experience, you gained knowledge to help someone else who might be going through the very same situation? What if it opened your eyes to see things from someone else's point of view? What if it taught you something about yourself that needed to change?
"In all circumstances" doesn't mean just the good times, but also the not so good, and yes, even the bad times. Give thanks in all circumstances. Hate doing those humdrum chores around the house? At least you have a house....or dishes to wash...or food to eat off those dishes you have to wash. What about when the car breaks down...AGAIN...but you have friends you can call who will give you a ride, or loan you a car, or even just listen to your frustration and empathize. The chronic pain you suffer makes you tired and maybe a little blue...but maybe someday someone will cross your path who you can help through the same kind of pain.
We don't know where all these situations and circumstances will ultimately take us. But we can still give thanks for God's presence, for His undying love, for His foresight and knowledge of how He will use all these things for good in some way. Jesus came to our earth as a human being to share in all these things with us. He's been there. He understands fully what it means to be human, to hurt, to fear, to worry. He understands the emotions we feel. He gets the anger. He knows. And He is there to help us get through all those things.
So give thanks in all circumstances...and trust Him.
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
31 Days - Joy in Perspective, Part 1
Over the last month, with my focus on joy, one thing I have learned is that we must look at things with the proper perspective. We can choose to let the things in life overwhelm and stress us, or we can choose to trust God and choose joy.
There are things in this life that are going to be difficult. It's just a fact. We can pray that those things be taken from us...and sometimes, that prayer will be answered. But, there are times that it is God's will for us to proceed through those times - for our own good, or for the good of someone else. It may not seem good at the time...but like Jesus, and even Paul, there is joy before us.
Hebrews 12:1-3
12 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, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
Jesus endured the cross and death because He knew the purpose of it...the salvation of those who believe. We may not always know the purpose of things that are difficult in our lives...but God does. If we trust God, we can trust that there is a purpose for our sufferings.
Paul understood this, too....
Philippians 1:21-26
21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 22 If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! 23 I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; 24 but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. 25 Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that through my being with you again your boasting in Christ Jesus will abound on account of me.
Paul, in prison, is torn between wanting to die and be with Christ and knowing that his purpose in living is not over.
Where is our focus in hard times? Are we choosing to focus on our own discomfort? Or on God's purpose and will for us...and the future joy He promises? It's all in the perspective. What will you choose?
There are things in this life that are going to be difficult. It's just a fact. We can pray that those things be taken from us...and sometimes, that prayer will be answered. But, there are times that it is God's will for us to proceed through those times - for our own good, or for the good of someone else. It may not seem good at the time...but like Jesus, and even Paul, there is joy before us.
Hebrews 12:1-3
12 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, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
Jesus endured the cross and death because He knew the purpose of it...the salvation of those who believe. We may not always know the purpose of things that are difficult in our lives...but God does. If we trust God, we can trust that there is a purpose for our sufferings.
Paul understood this, too....
Philippians 1:21-26
21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 22 If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! 23 I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; 24 but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. 25 Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that through my being with you again your boasting in Christ Jesus will abound on account of me.
Paul, in prison, is torn between wanting to die and be with Christ and knowing that his purpose in living is not over.
Where is our focus in hard times? Are we choosing to focus on our own discomfort? Or on God's purpose and will for us...and the future joy He promises? It's all in the perspective. What will you choose?
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.
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
31 Days - No Worries
I used to say that "I came from a long line of worriers." My grandma worried, my mom worried, my step-mom had what she used to call her "disaster tapes." I worried. I worried about money. I worried about having enough food. I worried about how to pay bills. I worried about getting new clothes for my kids. I worried about my kids. I worried about them getting sick or being hurt or people being mean to them. I worried about things that were "going to happen" next week or month or year. What if... How can I possibly... What will we do...
I would worry so much I had constant headaches, stomachaches that would send me to the couch to lay down until they subsided. I got cranky and spoke harsh words to those I was supposed to be protecting and teaching and loving. And I realized that all that worry...really got me nowhere except sick and tired. Worry didn't change the situation. Worry didn't make things better. Worry didn't solve problems.
Then I started to focus on trusting God...really truly trusting Him. I started to look at the times in my life that He really came through for me, for my family, for people I love. I started to remember how, even when I was unfaithful, He was always faithful. He always had our back. He always came through.
So then, I began to hold on tight to these words:
Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?
28 And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:24-34
And also these:
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6
And these:
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7
You see, when you can look back and see how the Lord has provided, how can you question that He will take care of you? When you can look back and see that the Lord has made a way, when there seemed no possible way, how can you question that He will not leave your side?
Little by little, as I put all my cares in His strong and capable hands...I began to feel a peace. A peace I couldn't explain when stress came my way. I began to be able to push the anxiety away, stop the worry, and tell myself that God would, indeed, make things - yes even stressful things - work out for good. I began to see that certain events, though stressful or frightening at the time, often led to new open doors or opportunities for me to serve others who were going through similar circumstances.
The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him. Psalm 28:7
And yes...even joy.
Yet he has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy. Acts 14:17
Trust Him. Let the worry go. Let Him be in control. And pretty soon, you will find that your heart is filled with joy...a joy that's unspeakable...a joy that's overflowing...a joy found in His presence.
I would worry so much I had constant headaches, stomachaches that would send me to the couch to lay down until they subsided. I got cranky and spoke harsh words to those I was supposed to be protecting and teaching and loving. And I realized that all that worry...really got me nowhere except sick and tired. Worry didn't change the situation. Worry didn't make things better. Worry didn't solve problems.
Then I started to focus on trusting God...really truly trusting Him. I started to look at the times in my life that He really came through for me, for my family, for people I love. I started to remember how, even when I was unfaithful, He was always faithful. He always had our back. He always came through.
So then, I began to hold on tight to these words:
Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?
28 And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:24-34
And also these:
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6
And these:
Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7
You see, when you can look back and see how the Lord has provided, how can you question that He will take care of you? When you can look back and see that the Lord has made a way, when there seemed no possible way, how can you question that He will not leave your side?
Little by little, as I put all my cares in His strong and capable hands...I began to feel a peace. A peace I couldn't explain when stress came my way. I began to be able to push the anxiety away, stop the worry, and tell myself that God would, indeed, make things - yes even stressful things - work out for good. I began to see that certain events, though stressful or frightening at the time, often led to new open doors or opportunities for me to serve others who were going through similar circumstances.
The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him. Psalm 28:7
And yes...even joy.
Yet he has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy. Acts 14:17
Trust Him. Let the worry go. Let Him be in control. And pretty soon, you will find that your heart is filled with joy...a joy that's unspeakable...a joy that's overflowing...a joy found in His presence.
Monday, May 20, 2013
Do you take Jesus at his word?
I'm doing a Bible study on the book of John with my Hello Mornings group. Today we read a passage in John chapter 4, verses 46-54. Have you read this one? Jesus has returned to Cana, where on a previous visit, he performed his first miracle at the urging of his mother. A royal official has heard that Jesus has returned and goes to find him. You see, this man's son was sick...sick and almost to the point of death. Can you just feel his heartbreak, his fear? Can you hear the tremble in his voice as he begs Jesus to come, please come and heal his son?
And Jesus, perhaps with a look around at the crowd of people in the streets, looks back at the man and says, "Unless you people see miraculous signs and wonders you will never believe." Let's hit pause here for a moment....
Is that true? Do we need to see the flashing lights, hear the music mounting in tension and volume, see hands make spectacular signals, hear fancy words....do we need to see miraculous signs and wonders in order to believe? Jesus does know the hearts of humans. He knows we are a fickle people...slow to trust, slow to believe...in need of signs that say "Yes, this is it!" But what if we didn't? What if we just....believed? What if we just took him at his word? What if we let the Truth shed Light over us and just accepted Him?
Let's go back to our story in John's book. The official says, "Sir, come down before my child dies." And Jesus replies, "You may go. Your son will live." That's it. "You may go." What? Really? And what does this man do? Does he continue to beg? Does he grab Jesus' hand and pull him toward his home? Does he stop in shock and say, "What? You won't come? Are you serious?"
No. "The man took Jesus at his word and departed." That's IT! A quiet, simple act of faith. He took Jesus at his word. Jesus does not lie. Ever. Did this man know that? Probably not. But he believed him. He turned and headed back home to his son. On the way, some of his servants came running up to him to tell him the good news that his son was still alive, doing better! The man asked when his son had turned for the better, and they told him, "The fever left him yesterday at the seventh hour." 1:00 pm. Goose bumps moment here, friends. The man realizes that is the exact moment he was speaking with Jesus. The moment that Jesus said, "Your son will live."
Jesus spoke those words, simple words, and the son's fever immediately broke. And the man believed! He told his household what had transpired and they believed! And this was Jesus' second miracle.
Friends, sometimes it just takes our simple, quiet acts of faith. Take Jesus at his word. He won't lie to you. He won't lead you astray. He won't tease or play games. He speaks truth. Jesus tells us we have eternal life if we believe in Him. Jesus tells us he will never leave us. Jesus tells us he will come again and gather us to him. Do you take Jesus at his word?
And Jesus, perhaps with a look around at the crowd of people in the streets, looks back at the man and says, "Unless you people see miraculous signs and wonders you will never believe." Let's hit pause here for a moment....
Is that true? Do we need to see the flashing lights, hear the music mounting in tension and volume, see hands make spectacular signals, hear fancy words....do we need to see miraculous signs and wonders in order to believe? Jesus does know the hearts of humans. He knows we are a fickle people...slow to trust, slow to believe...in need of signs that say "Yes, this is it!" But what if we didn't? What if we just....believed? What if we just took him at his word? What if we let the Truth shed Light over us and just accepted Him?
Let's go back to our story in John's book. The official says, "Sir, come down before my child dies." And Jesus replies, "You may go. Your son will live." That's it. "You may go." What? Really? And what does this man do? Does he continue to beg? Does he grab Jesus' hand and pull him toward his home? Does he stop in shock and say, "What? You won't come? Are you serious?"
No. "The man took Jesus at his word and departed." That's IT! A quiet, simple act of faith. He took Jesus at his word. Jesus does not lie. Ever. Did this man know that? Probably not. But he believed him. He turned and headed back home to his son. On the way, some of his servants came running up to him to tell him the good news that his son was still alive, doing better! The man asked when his son had turned for the better, and they told him, "The fever left him yesterday at the seventh hour." 1:00 pm. Goose bumps moment here, friends. The man realizes that is the exact moment he was speaking with Jesus. The moment that Jesus said, "Your son will live."
Jesus spoke those words, simple words, and the son's fever immediately broke. And the man believed! He told his household what had transpired and they believed! And this was Jesus' second miracle.
Friends, sometimes it just takes our simple, quiet acts of faith. Take Jesus at his word. He won't lie to you. He won't lead you astray. He won't tease or play games. He speaks truth. Jesus tells us we have eternal life if we believe in Him. Jesus tells us he will never leave us. Jesus tells us he will come again and gather us to him. Do you take Jesus at his word?
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Do you need these words today?
Isaiah 41:9-10
and called you from its farthest corners.
I said to you: You are My servant;
I have chosen you and not rejected you.
10 Do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be afraid, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you; I will help you;
I will hold on to you with My righteous right hand.
"I have chosen you and not rejected you." Do you need these words today? God brings you close, holds you near. He has chosen you. He has great love for you. You are not rejected, left behind, forgotten. You are chosen.
He will strengthen you, He will help you, He will hold you securely in His grip. He will never let you go. There is no need to fear. He is with you. Always.
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.
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Moving forward in trust and hope and joy - 2013
2012 was the year that I looked change in the face....and survived it! 2012 was the year I found my life's vision and mission. 2012 was the year I learned that small, steady steps in faith and trust can lead you to a giant, overwhelming goal that seemed impossible at the start.
My "One Word" for 2012 was shine....I'm not entirely sure how I lived up to that word...but I know with certainty that God shined over my life in so many ways in 2012. He led me down paths of change, showed me how to let go of fear, taught me to take baby steps in excellence, and showed me His purpose for my life.
I took a Christian peer coaching class in 2012...and learned more about myself than I imagined possible. I found strength, hope, and joy. I clarified my values as a Christian woman: faith, joy, love. I found the vision I am to follow. Let me share it with you:
I envision a world where others are encouraged in their walk with Christ through an understanding that by trusting in God their lives can be adventurous, full of possibilities and opportunities, abundant, hopeful and joyful in ANY circumstance.
And my mission in this vision:
To encourage others in their walk with Christ through my writing, teaching, coaching, and role-modeling what it looks like to live an abundant and joyful life through trusting God.
You might ask at this point, what will that look like? Well, I am going to take a training course in Christian Life Coaching that starts this month. I am going to commit to writing regularly on this blog, sharing God's Word. I am going to do my best to live a life of excellence in Christ and share what that looks like. I have long had an urging to write a devotional series...and so I am committed to studying the book of James this year and writing a series of devotionals based on my study. That's the start...where those things may take me? I am not entirely sure...but God knows, and I will trust His leading...
And this verse will be the basis of all I do:
13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
I wish this joy and peace for all of you in 2013...and ever forward! Grace and peace and joy to you!
My "One Word" for 2012 was shine....I'm not entirely sure how I lived up to that word...but I know with certainty that God shined over my life in so many ways in 2012. He led me down paths of change, showed me how to let go of fear, taught me to take baby steps in excellence, and showed me His purpose for my life.
I took a Christian peer coaching class in 2012...and learned more about myself than I imagined possible. I found strength, hope, and joy. I clarified my values as a Christian woman: faith, joy, love. I found the vision I am to follow. Let me share it with you:
I envision a world where others are encouraged in their walk with Christ through an understanding that by trusting in God their lives can be adventurous, full of possibilities and opportunities, abundant, hopeful and joyful in ANY circumstance.
And my mission in this vision:
To encourage others in their walk with Christ through my writing, teaching, coaching, and role-modeling what it looks like to live an abundant and joyful life through trusting God.
You might ask at this point, what will that look like? Well, I am going to take a training course in Christian Life Coaching that starts this month. I am going to commit to writing regularly on this blog, sharing God's Word. I am going to do my best to live a life of excellence in Christ and share what that looks like. I have long had an urging to write a devotional series...and so I am committed to studying the book of James this year and writing a series of devotionals based on my study. That's the start...where those things may take me? I am not entirely sure...but God knows, and I will trust His leading...
And this verse will be the basis of all I do:
Romans 15:13
New International Version (NIV)
I wish this joy and peace for all of you in 2013...and ever forward! Grace and peace and joy to you!
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Lessons from Sunday School...The Widow's Offering
Today I will go and sit in my little classroom at church, with my little three-year-old "bitties", as I fondly call them. I love these children. I love seeing the sparkle in their eyes, I love the way they fidget, I love the way they smile, I love the way they learn. Little three year-old sponges, who soak it in and delight in learning new things.
Today we will talk about the widow and her offering of love and faith and trust in her Lord. I will read the story to them out of the Gospel of Mark chapter 12, verses 38-44. The story of how Jesus spoke and taught the people at the temple. How he spoke of the hypocrisy of the scribes - how they puff themselves up in their importance, take the best seats, make long prayers in pretense. Then he sat, and watched the people drop their money in the treasury. Many people came and gave. Many rich people gave out of their riches, giving large sums.
But then, that little widow. I like to think of her as almost shy, quietly walking to the treasury box, her eyes on the floor. Her movements slow, but sure. Her hand reaches out, the sleeve of her robe possibly a little threadbare. And from her hand, drop two little coins - two little copper coins, which together add up to a penny. As they drop into the box, perhaps clinking on the other offerings given by those before her, she turns and walks away. Her gift given.
And Jesus calls his disciples to him and points out her example. He tells them that though her gift is small and meager in comparison to some of the other gifts, in His heavenly economy, it is greater, yes greater, than those other gifts. Others gave out of their abundance, which, don't get me worng, they are also called to do. But they gave and still have enough to be comfortable. But the widow, she gave all that she had. All. She was a poor woman, yet that did not stop her from giving. I would venture to say that she had a thankful heart, a great faith in her Lord. That though she gave all she had, she knew her Heavenly Father would take care of her. She reached her hand out in faith and let those coins drop into the box. All that she had.
Will God use our gifts we give out of our abundance? You bet He will. He tells us in another parable that whoever has much, and takes care of it the way a good steward should, they will receive more. But how often do we give sacrificially? How often do we give our all? How often do we share all that we have with others less fortunate? How often do we hold out our hand in hospitality to give out of our own poverty? How often do we open our entire self up and give it to our LORD?
In this coming time of holiday festivities, as we give thanks for what we have....we should also be thinking of how we can give. How we can share with the world around us. How we can step out in faith, knowing that God blesses our giving. How we can be like the widow and offer all that we have to our Father in Heaven to use as He wills. Not just part of our heart, not just part of our mind, not just part of our strength...but all of ourselves...out of the poverty of our sin, can we give Him ALL of us? Imagine how He will use you, when you freely, in faith, give your all to your Lord.....
Today we will talk about the widow and her offering of love and faith and trust in her Lord. I will read the story to them out of the Gospel of Mark chapter 12, verses 38-44. The story of how Jesus spoke and taught the people at the temple. How he spoke of the hypocrisy of the scribes - how they puff themselves up in their importance, take the best seats, make long prayers in pretense. Then he sat, and watched the people drop their money in the treasury. Many people came and gave. Many rich people gave out of their riches, giving large sums.
But then, that little widow. I like to think of her as almost shy, quietly walking to the treasury box, her eyes on the floor. Her movements slow, but sure. Her hand reaches out, the sleeve of her robe possibly a little threadbare. And from her hand, drop two little coins - two little copper coins, which together add up to a penny. As they drop into the box, perhaps clinking on the other offerings given by those before her, she turns and walks away. Her gift given.
And Jesus calls his disciples to him and points out her example. He tells them that though her gift is small and meager in comparison to some of the other gifts, in His heavenly economy, it is greater, yes greater, than those other gifts. Others gave out of their abundance, which, don't get me worng, they are also called to do. But they gave and still have enough to be comfortable. But the widow, she gave all that she had. All. She was a poor woman, yet that did not stop her from giving. I would venture to say that she had a thankful heart, a great faith in her Lord. That though she gave all she had, she knew her Heavenly Father would take care of her. She reached her hand out in faith and let those coins drop into the box. All that she had.
Will God use our gifts we give out of our abundance? You bet He will. He tells us in another parable that whoever has much, and takes care of it the way a good steward should, they will receive more. But how often do we give sacrificially? How often do we give our all? How often do we share all that we have with others less fortunate? How often do we hold out our hand in hospitality to give out of our own poverty? How often do we open our entire self up and give it to our LORD?
In this coming time of holiday festivities, as we give thanks for what we have....we should also be thinking of how we can give. How we can share with the world around us. How we can step out in faith, knowing that God blesses our giving. How we can be like the widow and offer all that we have to our Father in Heaven to use as He wills. Not just part of our heart, not just part of our mind, not just part of our strength...but all of ourselves...out of the poverty of our sin, can we give Him ALL of us? Imagine how He will use you, when you freely, in faith, give your all to your Lord.....
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Choosing joy...a repost
Chin up. Shoulders back. Put on the armor of God and feet forward. I admit it...I've been wallowing in self-pity. Sadness, depression, fear. Allowing Satan to speak his words of lies into my heart. Well, no more. Satan can take his lies and keep them to himself. I am grateful for who I am, what I have, and what my Father has in store for me. It's a new day, full of potential. I will pray for the one I miss each time I think of them, but I will not allow their choices to break me. It is a new day to put on confidence in who I am in God, in what I have to offer, and to step forward and Shine for Him.
I can do all things, through Christ, who gives me strength. Phil 4:13
I would like to repost something here.... a post I wrote some time ago about choosing joy...
I've been thinking about joy today. Elusive sometimes, isn't it? And yet, it's within our reach. It's within the moments of every day. It's there for us to choose. "To choose?" you might ask. Yes, to choose. When you wake in the morning, do you say to yourself "Today I am going to have a crummy day? Today I choose to be grumpy. Today I choose to look at the wrong side of the fabric and live my life with fear, anxiety and desperation. Today I will let bitterness and anger rule in my heart." Of course, you don't. Who would choose to have a bad day?
On the other hand, however, how often do you get up in the morning and say "Today, I choose joy! Today I will look at the brighter side of things. Today I will trust God to direct my footsteps. Today I will look on Him for all I need. Today I will say "Yes" to His purposes for me. Today I will be grateful for the things I have, the gifts I am blessed with, the people who grace my life."
Ok, so the first one is a little extreme. But what if you wake in the morning and open your eyes, take a deep breath and say "Today, I choose joy." How would that change your outlook? Maybe just try it right now. Breathe in deep, and as you slowly let it out let your heart say these words...."Today, I choose joy."
Today I choose to trust in God. Today I choose to give all my trials, fears, worries to Him. Today I choose to live a life of thankfulness. Today I choose to love those around me with the love of God...not my own weak version of it. Today I choose to forgive and let go of the things that hurt me. Today I will let those who matter to me know it. Today I will give as God would have me give.
Today, I choose joy.
*************
I thank you, God for all you have given me. For all that has come into my life...even for brief periods. For those that leave gaping holes and hurts, I turn them over to You and trust that You will use those holes and hurts for good. Thank you, Father, for forgiving me and for holding me fast in Your righteous and strong right hand. Help me now to move forward, eyes on the goal...Your goal.
Amen
I can do all things, through Christ, who gives me strength. Phil 4:13
I would like to repost something here.... a post I wrote some time ago about choosing joy...
I've been thinking about joy today. Elusive sometimes, isn't it? And yet, it's within our reach. It's within the moments of every day. It's there for us to choose. "To choose?" you might ask. Yes, to choose. When you wake in the morning, do you say to yourself "Today I am going to have a crummy day? Today I choose to be grumpy. Today I choose to look at the wrong side of the fabric and live my life with fear, anxiety and desperation. Today I will let bitterness and anger rule in my heart." Of course, you don't. Who would choose to have a bad day?
On the other hand, however, how often do you get up in the morning and say "Today, I choose joy! Today I will look at the brighter side of things. Today I will trust God to direct my footsteps. Today I will look on Him for all I need. Today I will say "Yes" to His purposes for me. Today I will be grateful for the things I have, the gifts I am blessed with, the people who grace my life."
Ok, so the first one is a little extreme. But what if you wake in the morning and open your eyes, take a deep breath and say "Today, I choose joy." How would that change your outlook? Maybe just try it right now. Breathe in deep, and as you slowly let it out let your heart say these words...."Today, I choose joy."
Today I choose to trust in God. Today I choose to give all my trials, fears, worries to Him. Today I choose to live a life of thankfulness. Today I choose to love those around me with the love of God...not my own weak version of it. Today I choose to forgive and let go of the things that hurt me. Today I will let those who matter to me know it. Today I will give as God would have me give.
Today, I choose joy.
*************
I thank you, God for all you have given me. For all that has come into my life...even for brief periods. For those that leave gaping holes and hurts, I turn them over to You and trust that You will use those holes and hurts for good. Thank you, Father, for forgiving me and for holding me fast in Your righteous and strong right hand. Help me now to move forward, eyes on the goal...Your goal.
Amen
Thursday, July 12, 2012
What's your foundation?
Funny how things come up repeatedly. This topic was in a conversation I had with a friend, in the Bible verses in my reading plan this morning, in the old sermon notes of my son's found in a file in my office this morning...so I'm thinking it's a divine suggestion of a topic to ponder...
Let's start with the Bible verses....Luke 6:46-49
As I read these words this morning, I thought of the song that we sing at Sunday school with the little ones. Do you know it? Can you hum it along with me? "The foolish man built his house upon the sand, the foolish man built his house upon the sand, the foolish man built his house upon the sand...and the rains came a-tumblin' down. Well, the rains came down and the floods came up, the rains came down and the floods came up, the rains came down and the floods came up, and the house on the sand went splat!" The children smack their hands together and laugh at the "splat." But really, it's not so funny is it?
What's my foundation? What do I build my life on? If I build on the world....am I building it on sands that shift, sink...don't hold firm when the storms of life come upon my life-house? What happens when the rain falls? When I can't see through the storm. If I have built my life on money, other people, my job, my home...the things of this world....then what supports me when the storm crashes in? Does the money make everything better? Do the people stand firm and support me no matter what happens? Does my job always stay to give me security? Are my worldly goods and material things going to keep me going? Money and jobs and homes and stuff don't always last. People, even well-intentioned people who love us, are only human and they sometimes fail us. Can I stand alone against the storm? Can I do it by myself?
Sometimes I'd like to say yes! I am strong. I can go it alone. I don't need anyone or anything to help me. But then come the long, dark and stormy nights, the moments when I feel I have no hope....there is pain, and fear...dark and unrelenting. The walls are crashing down. The stuff is gone. The people are gone. And I am.....alone, weak. And I can't do it by myself.
Sing with me again.... "The wise man built his house upon the rock, the wise man built his house upon the rock, the wise man built his house upon the rock and the rains came a-tumblin' down. Well, the rains came down and the floods came up, the rains came down and the floods came up, the rains came down and the floods came up...and the house on the rock stood firm!" Ahh....the Word says the man who comes to God, hears His words and does them is like a man who digs deep and builds his house on a firm foundation of rock. If I build my life on my Rock....I cannot be shaken. Look...this is beautiful, the words of Psalm 62:2....
Let's start with the Bible verses....Luke 6:46-49
Build Your House on the Rock
46 “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you? 47 Everyone who comes to me and hears my words and does them, I will show you what he is like: 48 he is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when a flood arose, the stream broke against that house and could not shake it, because it had been well built. 49 But the one who hears and does not do them is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. When the stream broke against it, immediately it fell, and the ruin of that house was great.”
46 “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you? 47 Everyone who comes to me and hears my words and does them, I will show you what he is like: 48 he is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when a flood arose, the stream broke against that house and could not shake it, because it had been well built. 49 But the one who hears and does not do them is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. When the stream broke against it, immediately it fell, and the ruin of that house was great.”
As I read these words this morning, I thought of the song that we sing at Sunday school with the little ones. Do you know it? Can you hum it along with me? "The foolish man built his house upon the sand, the foolish man built his house upon the sand, the foolish man built his house upon the sand...and the rains came a-tumblin' down. Well, the rains came down and the floods came up, the rains came down and the floods came up, the rains came down and the floods came up, and the house on the sand went splat!" The children smack their hands together and laugh at the "splat." But really, it's not so funny is it?
What's my foundation? What do I build my life on? If I build on the world....am I building it on sands that shift, sink...don't hold firm when the storms of life come upon my life-house? What happens when the rain falls? When I can't see through the storm. If I have built my life on money, other people, my job, my home...the things of this world....then what supports me when the storm crashes in? Does the money make everything better? Do the people stand firm and support me no matter what happens? Does my job always stay to give me security? Are my worldly goods and material things going to keep me going? Money and jobs and homes and stuff don't always last. People, even well-intentioned people who love us, are only human and they sometimes fail us. Can I stand alone against the storm? Can I do it by myself?
Sometimes I'd like to say yes! I am strong. I can go it alone. I don't need anyone or anything to help me. But then come the long, dark and stormy nights, the moments when I feel I have no hope....there is pain, and fear...dark and unrelenting. The walls are crashing down. The stuff is gone. The people are gone. And I am.....alone, weak. And I can't do it by myself.
Sing with me again.... "The wise man built his house upon the rock, the wise man built his house upon the rock, the wise man built his house upon the rock and the rains came a-tumblin' down. Well, the rains came down and the floods came up, the rains came down and the floods came up, the rains came down and the floods came up...and the house on the rock stood firm!" Ahh....the Word says the man who comes to God, hears His words and does them is like a man who digs deep and builds his house on a firm foundation of rock. If I build my life on my Rock....I cannot be shaken. Look...this is beautiful, the words of Psalm 62:2....
2 He alone is my rock and my salvation,
my fortress; I shall not be greatly shaken.
my fortress; I shall not be greatly shaken.
He alone is my rock....I shall not be greatly shaken. Yes. When I build my life on the Rock...the One who is my Father, my Creator, my Protector...when I look to the Son who is my Savior, my Redeemer...when I listen to the guidance of the Holy Spirit who is my Comforter, my Guide, my Intercessor....what have I to fear? Yes, the storms will still come. Yes, I may lose all my stuff. Yes, the people in my life may not be able or willing to step up in that moment. Yes, I may bend...but I won't break. And even if I do?? God is there to pick me up, hold me tight and put me back on firm ground. He is my foundation. My source of strength, hope, salvation, and joy.
Shall we finish the song? "So build your life on the Lord Jesus Christ, build your life on the Lord Jesus Christ, build your life on the Lord Jesus Christ, and the blessings will come down. Well, the blessings come down as the prayers go up, the blessings come down as the prayers go up, the blessings come down as the prayers go up, so build your life on the Lord."
We don't have to go it alone. We don't have to rely on the things of this world, or even ourselves. Just God. He's the foundation that holds us firm, that keeps us living a life of hope.
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Saturday, March 17, 2012
Five Minute Friday - Brave (on Saturday)
Around here we write for five minutes flat on Fridays.
We finger paint with words. We try to remember what it was like to just write without worrying if it’s just right or not.
Where your words are welcome, just as they are! (<–-Tweet this!)
1. Write for 5 minutes flat – no editing, no over thinking, no backtracking
2. Link back here and invite others to join in.
3. Meet & encourage someone who linked up before you.
OK, are you ready? Give us your best five minutes on:
::
Brave...courageous. I don't use those words for myself very often. Nope...more like knee-knocking, hand-shaking chicken! My heart pounds, I sweat...just a mess. Not brave. Not courageous. Nope. Not me.
But today, I had an opportunity to practice. When I got up this morning...I fortified myself with a cup of coffee from my mug that has my favorite verse on it....Philippians 4:13...I can do all things through Him who gives me strength. Yes, Him....strenth. That's the key, you know. He gives me strength. He gives me courage. He makes me brave.
And so when the time came for me to be like David facing his Goliath....I prayed, I breathed, I straightened up my spine, and I prayed a little more. And yes...I was brave! And the situation turned out ok. God walked by my side, held my hand and gave me a gentle shove in the middle of the back when I needed it.
And afterwards, I felt His tender kiss on my forehead as He told me He was proud of me.
We finger paint with words. We try to remember what it was like to just write without worrying if it’s just right or not.
Where your words are welcome, just as they are! (<–-Tweet this!)
1. Write for 5 minutes flat – no editing, no over thinking, no backtracking
2. Link back here and invite others to join in.
3. Meet & encourage someone who linked up before you.
OK, are you ready? Give us your best five minutes on:
::
Brave…
Brave...courageous. I don't use those words for myself very often. Nope...more like knee-knocking, hand-shaking chicken! My heart pounds, I sweat...just a mess. Not brave. Not courageous. Nope. Not me.
But today, I had an opportunity to practice. When I got up this morning...I fortified myself with a cup of coffee from my mug that has my favorite verse on it....Philippians 4:13...I can do all things through Him who gives me strength. Yes, Him....strenth. That's the key, you know. He gives me strength. He gives me courage. He makes me brave.
And so when the time came for me to be like David facing his Goliath....I prayed, I breathed, I straightened up my spine, and I prayed a little more. And yes...I was brave! And the situation turned out ok. God walked by my side, held my hand and gave me a gentle shove in the middle of the back when I needed it.
And afterwards, I felt His tender kiss on my forehead as He told me He was proud of me.
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Faith Reaching Beyond the Present
So, back to Psalm 77...
We left Asaph wondering where God was...why He was so silent. Asaph was feeling a little forgotten, alone, overwhelmed. He was experiencing sleepless nights, lying mute in his bed, moaning to God, laying bare his heart. How many nights, how many hours might it have been? Perhaps in the wee morning hours when the dark is just beginning to let go of the world, Asaph lifts his eyes upward and remembers....
******
We left Asaph wondering where God was...why He was so silent. Asaph was feeling a little forgotten, alone, overwhelmed. He was experiencing sleepless nights, lying mute in his bed, moaning to God, laying bare his heart. How many nights, how many hours might it have been? Perhaps in the wee morning hours when the dark is just beginning to let go of the world, Asaph lifts his eyes upward and remembers....
13 Your ways, God, are holy.
What god is as great as our God?
14 You are the God who performs miracles;
you display your power among the peoples.
15 With your mighty arm you redeemed your people,
the descendants of Jacob and Joseph.
What god is as great as our God?
14 You are the God who performs miracles;
you display your power among the peoples.
15 With your mighty arm you redeemed your people,
the descendants of Jacob and Joseph.
Do you feel that? Do you feel those little rays of hope coming through Asaph's thoughts? Our God is great, He performs miracles, He displays His power, He redeems his people. He provided ways out for His people....and even when they grumbled and sinned, He still provided for them. Always. Without fail. He never left them. And He does the same for us....
16 The waters saw you, God,
the waters saw you and writhed;
the very depths were convulsed.
17 The clouds poured down water,
the heavens resounded with thunder;
your arrows flashed back and forth.
18 Your thunder was heard in the whirlwind,
your lightning lit up the world;
the earth trembled and quaked.
19 Your path led through the sea,
your way through the mighty waters,
though your footprints were not seen.
the waters saw you and writhed;
the very depths were convulsed.
17 The clouds poured down water,
the heavens resounded with thunder;
your arrows flashed back and forth.
18 Your thunder was heard in the whirlwind,
your lightning lit up the world;
the earth trembled and quaked.
19 Your path led through the sea,
your way through the mighty waters,
though your footprints were not seen.
Read those words again. Out loud. Visualize the awesome power of the convulsing depths, the flashing lighting, the waters fighting against themselves as they separate...feel the trembling of the earth as the thunder rumbles, as a path appears between walls of writhing water....
Asaph remembers God's faithfulness. He lets go of his present troubles and allows his faith to take hold, to see God's faithfulness in the past, to give him hope for his own future. We can learn a lesson from Asaph. When we are troubled, when life seems too overwhelming, when God seems silent...turn to His word. Read of His faithfulness. When our arms seem to heavy to hold out toward Him a minute more, when the ache seems too big to get past...think of how He provided for you in the past. Remember His faithfulness. And remember, that though His footprints aren't visible...He is there, walking beside you, holding you, keeping you.
******
Letting go of lies...
The evil one has convinced me over and over in his constantly whispering voice that I am worthless. That I am a failure at so much. That I am not worthy of a second look. But I KNOW that I have worth in Christ...that I am a new creation in Him, beloved, whole, redeemed by His blood. I don't need others to tell me of my worth or worthlessness....I need only to believe that Christ died for me because He loves me and I am worth more than any precious jewel to my Father in heaven.
Sunday, January 1, 2012
2012...Beginnings
It's the beginning of a new year. For some, the beginning of new resolutions, goals, habits. For some, the beginning of a new paragraph, page, chapter in life. For some, a day to start with a clean slate..a new beginning.
I went to church this morning and enjoyed gathering with my Christian family to worship, listen, learn, pray, and share in the eucharist meal. The message this morning was about how giving God glory, worshiping Him, leads to peace and joy. It was a beautiful message and one I needed to hear. And as we prayed for forgiveness this morning, one verse kept coming into my mind.
This verse:
Psalm 51:10
10 Create in me a pure heart, O God,
and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
So on this day of new beginnings, I pray to my Father, my God, the Creator of all that is...to give me a new beginning, a new slate, a clean heart. I can hold tight to His promise of forgiveness of my sins..knowing that He will not hold them against me, but will remember them no more:
Jeremiah 31:33-35
33 “This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel
after that time,” declares the LORD.
“I will put my law in their minds
and write it on their hearts.
I will be their God,
and they will be my people.
34 No longer will they teach their neighbor,
or say to one another, ‘Know the LORD,’
because they will all know me,
from the least of them to the greatest,”
declares the LORD.
“For I will forgive their wickedness
and will remember their sins no more.”
I pray that He will renew a steadfast spirit within me...that I will hold fast to all His promises and trust His truth. A steadfast spirit that will glorify Him in all I do, turn to Him for all I need, praise and thank Him daily for all my blessings. A steadfast spirit that will shine the light of His love to all those around me...to His glory...that I may find to joy in Him, and peace. I wish these things for you, as well.
So here's to new beginnings. To a cleansed heart, a steadfast spirit. Here's to an awesome year of living for Him in the abundance of His grace.
Shine in 2012!
I went to church this morning and enjoyed gathering with my Christian family to worship, listen, learn, pray, and share in the eucharist meal. The message this morning was about how giving God glory, worshiping Him, leads to peace and joy. It was a beautiful message and one I needed to hear. And as we prayed for forgiveness this morning, one verse kept coming into my mind.
This verse:
Psalm 51:10
10 Create in me a pure heart, O God,
and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
So on this day of new beginnings, I pray to my Father, my God, the Creator of all that is...to give me a new beginning, a new slate, a clean heart. I can hold tight to His promise of forgiveness of my sins..knowing that He will not hold them against me, but will remember them no more:
Jeremiah 31:33-35
33 “This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel
after that time,” declares the LORD.
“I will put my law in their minds
and write it on their hearts.
I will be their God,
and they will be my people.
34 No longer will they teach their neighbor,
or say to one another, ‘Know the LORD,’
because they will all know me,
from the least of them to the greatest,”
declares the LORD.
“For I will forgive their wickedness
and will remember their sins no more.”
I pray that He will renew a steadfast spirit within me...that I will hold fast to all His promises and trust His truth. A steadfast spirit that will glorify Him in all I do, turn to Him for all I need, praise and thank Him daily for all my blessings. A steadfast spirit that will shine the light of His love to all those around me...to His glory...that I may find to joy in Him, and peace. I wish these things for you, as well.
So here's to new beginnings. To a cleansed heart, a steadfast spirit. Here's to an awesome year of living for Him in the abundance of His grace.
Shine in 2012!
Monday, December 19, 2011
My Birthday Wish
Today is my birthday. 44 years ago today I started this journey called life. I remember parties, and gifts, and family and friends over the years. I remember how I always liked having my birthday in December...my gifts got to sit under the Christmas tree, my mother made me birthday cakes with a miniature nativity scene on it (I still have that!) My family always made sure my birthday didn't get lost in the holiday excitement...it was always a special day. I appreciate that.
As I look over my 44 years, I see many things...things I would change if I could, many moments I cherish, accomplishments, mistakes I made, happy, sad, bittersweet. Looking back, though...there is one part of my life that remained constant...even when I put it in a box, or a corner, or out of mind....
God has loved me throughout. Have I lived the best life for Him? No. But He loves me anyway. Have I always obeyed Him? No. But He loves me anyway. Have I kept all His commands and loved others the way He would have me love? No. But He loves me anyway. Have I turned from Him, forgotten Him, ignored Him, pushed Him away? Yes. But He loves me anyway...and He has not turned from me, forgotten me, ignored me, or pushed me away.
He has taught me, lifted me up, held me when I cried, laughed with me, given me strength and patience, provided abundantly for my needs, given me family and friends who are there for me. He has loved me anyway. He gave His Son for me - the light of the world. And as I look from my birthday....to the birthday we will soon celebrate...the birth of my beloved Savior and King, Jesus....I know the best gift I ever received was God's grace. His Son. His love.
I grew up going to church. I grew up learning about Jesus. We prayed at home, had family devotions. I was baptized when I was 15 years old in a beautiful church in Oak Harbor. I remember that moment that I became God's daughter - adopted into His family. I remember the flood of peace as the pastor said those words..."I baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen." And even though I was active in youth group, and loved God so much...a few years later, I let the world come between us...like so many kids do when they go away from home. It wasn't until my first son was about 5 years old that I started to question my life and my beliefs and my commitment to God. I had promised Him as each of my boys were baptized that I would teach them about Him, take them to church...I wasn't doing that.
So we started looking for a church home. Started taking our kids to Sunday school. Growing in faith. It was good to get back to God. Good to surround myself with other Christians. Good to get back into His word. I still stumble in my walk with Him. But I look back at my growth since my Baptism birthday, and I am astonished at what I have learned and gone through. I am proud to call Him Father, to be His daughter.
My birthday wish is that I will continue to grow in Him. That I will be better at looking to Him in all things. That I will be able to fully trust Him in all areas of my life. That I will live my life for Him...so that His love will shine out through me to bless others. I continue on in this journey, with open eyes, heart and mind to see His works, hear His word, share His love. I am grateful for grace...
As I look over my 44 years, I see many things...things I would change if I could, many moments I cherish, accomplishments, mistakes I made, happy, sad, bittersweet. Looking back, though...there is one part of my life that remained constant...even when I put it in a box, or a corner, or out of mind....
God has loved me throughout. Have I lived the best life for Him? No. But He loves me anyway. Have I always obeyed Him? No. But He loves me anyway. Have I kept all His commands and loved others the way He would have me love? No. But He loves me anyway. Have I turned from Him, forgotten Him, ignored Him, pushed Him away? Yes. But He loves me anyway...and He has not turned from me, forgotten me, ignored me, or pushed me away.
He has taught me, lifted me up, held me when I cried, laughed with me, given me strength and patience, provided abundantly for my needs, given me family and friends who are there for me. He has loved me anyway. He gave His Son for me - the light of the world. And as I look from my birthday....to the birthday we will soon celebrate...the birth of my beloved Savior and King, Jesus....I know the best gift I ever received was God's grace. His Son. His love.
I grew up going to church. I grew up learning about Jesus. We prayed at home, had family devotions. I was baptized when I was 15 years old in a beautiful church in Oak Harbor. I remember that moment that I became God's daughter - adopted into His family. I remember the flood of peace as the pastor said those words..."I baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen." And even though I was active in youth group, and loved God so much...a few years later, I let the world come between us...like so many kids do when they go away from home. It wasn't until my first son was about 5 years old that I started to question my life and my beliefs and my commitment to God. I had promised Him as each of my boys were baptized that I would teach them about Him, take them to church...I wasn't doing that.
So we started looking for a church home. Started taking our kids to Sunday school. Growing in faith. It was good to get back to God. Good to surround myself with other Christians. Good to get back into His word. I still stumble in my walk with Him. But I look back at my growth since my Baptism birthday, and I am astonished at what I have learned and gone through. I am proud to call Him Father, to be His daughter.
My birthday wish is that I will continue to grow in Him. That I will be better at looking to Him in all things. That I will be able to fully trust Him in all areas of my life. That I will live my life for Him...so that His love will shine out through me to bless others. I continue on in this journey, with open eyes, heart and mind to see His works, hear His word, share His love. I am grateful for grace...
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Knowing and trusting
Trusting someone is naturally easier when you know them well. When you know their characteristics, their values, the way they deal with different issues, how they treat you and other people....are they honest, do they keep their word, do they take their responsibilities seriously? Relationships can be made or broken based on trust issues.
It's the same with trusting God. It's far easier to trust Him if you know Him! So how do you do that? How do you get to know the Creator of the universe, our Heavenly Father, His Son, Prince of Peace, Messiah, Emmanuel, the Holy Spirit, the Comforter?
Isaiah 9:6b
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Open your Bible and read it! It is the Word of God! In it you will find His personality, His love, His abundant grace. You will find that He always keeps His promises. That His love is unconditional, always there, and abundant. You will find that He is merciful and protective of His own. He is ever present, all knowing, all powerful, unchanging. He wants to be in relationship with you.
Joshua 21:45
45 Not one of all the LORD’s good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled.
John 1:14
14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
Psalm 3:3
3 But you, LORD, are a shield around me,
my glory, the One who lifts my head high.
Pray. Daily....hourly...all the time. Give thanks. Give adoration. Tell Him your needs. Tell Him your feelings, your thoughts, your hurts, your happiness, your disappointments. Tell Him everything...even your anger. Tell Him. Worship Him, praise Him. Talk to him....and then watch for Him to answer.
Jeremiah 29:11-13
11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.
Find a church home where you can worship and fellowship with other Christians. One that has values that are Biblically based...where the Gospel is spoken, where the commandments to love God, love others, and spread the gospel is lived out through the members. Go to worship, go to Bible study groups, take part in activities. Be a part of the Christian community.
Matthew 18:20
20 For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”
Get to know Him...and get to trusting Him!
It's the same with trusting God. It's far easier to trust Him if you know Him! So how do you do that? How do you get to know the Creator of the universe, our Heavenly Father, His Son, Prince of Peace, Messiah, Emmanuel, the Holy Spirit, the Comforter?
Isaiah 9:6b
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Open your Bible and read it! It is the Word of God! In it you will find His personality, His love, His abundant grace. You will find that He always keeps His promises. That His love is unconditional, always there, and abundant. You will find that He is merciful and protective of His own. He is ever present, all knowing, all powerful, unchanging. He wants to be in relationship with you.
Joshua 21:45
45 Not one of all the LORD’s good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled.
John 1:14
14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
Psalm 3:3
3 But you, LORD, are a shield around me,
my glory, the One who lifts my head high.
Pray. Daily....hourly...all the time. Give thanks. Give adoration. Tell Him your needs. Tell Him your feelings, your thoughts, your hurts, your happiness, your disappointments. Tell Him everything...even your anger. Tell Him. Worship Him, praise Him. Talk to him....and then watch for Him to answer.
Jeremiah 29:11-13
11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.
Find a church home where you can worship and fellowship with other Christians. One that has values that are Biblically based...where the Gospel is spoken, where the commandments to love God, love others, and spread the gospel is lived out through the members. Go to worship, go to Bible study groups, take part in activities. Be a part of the Christian community.
20 For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”
Get to know Him...and get to trusting Him!
Monday, November 28, 2011
Spend Less...and Trust
Early last week, I was asked to speak during services this past weekend and give a personal reflection on our Rethinking Christmas (otherwise known as Advent Conspiracy to some) series. I'd like to share here what I said at church services this weekend:
My first reaction to this
week’s theme, Spend Less, was “Well, of course I will spend less this
year. I have no choice. The finances are not there to spend
more! It will definitely be less.” This reaction was fueled by worry and
stress. I come from a long and
distinguished line of Worriers! If
there wasn’t something to worry about…we’d find something. And for me, I will admit, money has been
something I have worried about a lot over the years. There never seems to be enough…
I have been taking a personal
journey with God this year. At the
beginning of the year, I decided to choose a theme word…I went through several
words before God made it very clear to me that my word for 2011 was to be
TRUST. That specifically this year, I
would learn to trust Him fully. It
terrified me because I wasn’t sure what that meant…but I was pretty sure it
wouldn’t all be what I would consider “good.”
It’s been a rough year in so many ways, but through it all I have
learned that worry is a sin. And to
spend my time worrying about things is taking my focus off of God…away from
trusting Him.
On Monday, if you are
following the Rethinking Christmas devotionals, you will read about Jesus
feeding the five thousand.
Mark 6:35-38
New International Version (NIV)
37 But he answered, “You give them something to eat.”
They said to him, “That would take more than half a year’s wages! Are we to go and spend that much on bread and give it to them to eat?”
38 “How many loaves do you have?” he asked. “Go and see.”
When they found out, they said, “Five—and two fish.”
The disciples were worried
about money…how they would buy enough food for all the people. And Jesus asked them to look at what they
had… “How many loaves do you have? Go and see.”
You see, Jesus wasn’t asking the disciples to go into debt or spend every
cent they had to feed those people. He
doesn’t ask us to do that either. What
do you have? Will you trust Him with it? Will you trust that it is enough? It was that
day…more than enough…in fact, the people were satisfied.
What if, instead of spending
so much at Christmas to buy the next bigger, better, best…we look at what we
have…and trust God to let it be enough.
What if we found ways to spend less money, spend less time worrying that
we haven’t bought a great enough gift…but spend more time building
relationships with our family and friends by finding, or doing, something
thoughtful…meaningful, that doesn’t have to cost a lot. And what if we spend more time trusting God?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)