John 14:13, “And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.”
John15:4-7, “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.”
When we pray do we pray little prayers? God is a God of great things and can do great things. Nothing is too large or too hard that God cannot do or handle. Jesus is giving us advice on how we are to seek and ask of God. First we must abide in Him or we must have Jesus living within us. As He was teaching his disciples he referred to them as branches of a vine. He being the vine and they the branches.
Have you ever tried to grow grapes from cuttings off a grape vine? You have to plant it care for it and prune off any dead wood. This cutting then takes root becomes a vine in its own right. You can’t get grapes until the cutting becomes a vine. Jesus is telling us that we cannot produce fruit on our own we must be part of the vine. We must have Him living in our hearts and minds. Only then can we produce fruit.
How big do you want your fruit to be? How much fruit do you want? That depends on how you care for the vine and how many vines you plant. Jesus said, “: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” He went on to say, “If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.”
Ask what ye will is a pretty strong statement. Is Jesus abiding in you and do you trust Him to do what He said He would do? Most of the time we probably don’t we are thinking small we are praying small. If you only plant one small vine you get only a few grapes. But if you plant a vineyard look what you get! We think small and we get small, we pray small and we get small. Let us not limit God by our small thinking and praying. Jesus said ask what ye will and you shall have it. Abide in me and you will have a great harvest. Large asking results in large receiving. How big are your prayers?
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
A Bad Reputation
Joshua 2:11, “And as soon as we had heard these things, our hearts did melt, neither did there remain any more courage in any man, because of you: for the LORD your God, he is God in heaven above, and in earth beneath.”
Faith comes from many areas and in many forms. The story of Rahab is just such a story. Who would ever think a prostitute, a citizen of an enemy city, a pagan would make a profession that God was God of heaven and earth. Yes she did hide the men who Joshua sent in to spy the city’s fortifications. Yes she had a colorful past and was of questionable reputation. But she was also one God used to prove His power and grace. When Joshua’s army circled Jericho and the walls came tumbling down who was saved? Rahab and her house! Why, because of her faith. Faith in a God she had never met and one she had only heard about. She was risking not only her life but the lives of all in her house when she hid the men sent in to explore the enemy city.
What had she heard that made such an impact on her? The God of Israel had dried up the waters of the Red sea, had defeated the kings of the Amorites, and delivered the nation out of bondage in Egypt. This was not just a news bulletin it was a report of what God had done for His people.
If Rahab could come out of such a conflicting and hostile society, to such a potent and unyielding faith, then it proves no circumstantial or cultural barrier is strong enough to overcome genuine faith in the one true God. Here was a promiscuous woman, with dubious connections, and a dark pagan past who was used of God to deliver His people.
What a powerful witness Rahab is of God’s ability to forgive, to cleanse, and to even be used of God. “So then faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 10:17 Rahab’s faith came from hearing about what God had done. Because of her faith God used her is a great way. Just like the song says, just as I am I come. You don’t have to change to come to Jesus you have to come to Jesus to be changed. Though your sins be as scarlet they shall be white as snow.
God uses all kinds of people from all backgrounds and every walk of life to accomplish His purpose. Remember you are saved by faith not of works lest any man should boast. God doesn’t care where you have been He cares where you are going. Let Him lead you and use you for His glory. How can God use you today?
Faith comes from many areas and in many forms. The story of Rahab is just such a story. Who would ever think a prostitute, a citizen of an enemy city, a pagan would make a profession that God was God of heaven and earth. Yes she did hide the men who Joshua sent in to spy the city’s fortifications. Yes she had a colorful past and was of questionable reputation. But she was also one God used to prove His power and grace. When Joshua’s army circled Jericho and the walls came tumbling down who was saved? Rahab and her house! Why, because of her faith. Faith in a God she had never met and one she had only heard about. She was risking not only her life but the lives of all in her house when she hid the men sent in to explore the enemy city.
What had she heard that made such an impact on her? The God of Israel had dried up the waters of the Red sea, had defeated the kings of the Amorites, and delivered the nation out of bondage in Egypt. This was not just a news bulletin it was a report of what God had done for His people.
If Rahab could come out of such a conflicting and hostile society, to such a potent and unyielding faith, then it proves no circumstantial or cultural barrier is strong enough to overcome genuine faith in the one true God. Here was a promiscuous woman, with dubious connections, and a dark pagan past who was used of God to deliver His people.
What a powerful witness Rahab is of God’s ability to forgive, to cleanse, and to even be used of God. “So then faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 10:17 Rahab’s faith came from hearing about what God had done. Because of her faith God used her is a great way. Just like the song says, just as I am I come. You don’t have to change to come to Jesus you have to come to Jesus to be changed. Though your sins be as scarlet they shall be white as snow.
God uses all kinds of people from all backgrounds and every walk of life to accomplish His purpose. Remember you are saved by faith not of works lest any man should boast. God doesn’t care where you have been He cares where you are going. Let Him lead you and use you for His glory. How can God use you today?
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
We Have To Cross The River
Joshua 1: 9, “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.”
As we walk through this life God will assign us difficult task. We will have many rivers to cross. Joshua had just been handed an awesome task. Take over for Moses. Lead the Nation of Israel over the Jordan to possess the Promised Land. I am sure he had his doubts. He was probably afraid. No he was probably terrified. Who would not be if they had just been handed such a mission. Remember Joshua had been across the river. He had seen what lay on the other side; the walled cities the fierce army and the promise of God. He was sure Moses was going to get them there. Moses died and now someone had to take over. God called Joshua! “Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel.” Marching orders!
Joshua was thrust from being a minister to Moses to the one in command, into a position of great responsibility. The challenge was enormous that was handed to him. The fate of the whole Nation of Israel was not on his shoulders. The lives of over a million people were just in trusted to him. What must have been going though his head? How could he ever follow such a great leader as Moses? The night before he must have lay awake wondering and scared. In his own strength there was no way this was going to work.
He must have said, “Ok Lord now what? How am I going to get this done?” Listen to what the Lord told him, “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” Wow what a promise.
If God has given you a special task, given you a special work that He needs done and that scares you, remember the words Joshua heard, “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” Just like Joshua we all will have to rise up and cross the river. Be it the river of fear or obstacles the promise land waits on the other side. It is up to us to go it is up to the Lord to see us through. If we faithfully do our part He will be faithful to do His part. Remember nothing happened for Joshua until he got up and did something. He had to take the first step. Just like Joshua we also must take the first step. Whether it be the first step into the isle on the way to meet Jesus or the first step to cross the river. The first step is ours the rest belong to the Lord.
As we walk through this life God will assign us difficult task. We will have many rivers to cross. Joshua had just been handed an awesome task. Take over for Moses. Lead the Nation of Israel over the Jordan to possess the Promised Land. I am sure he had his doubts. He was probably afraid. No he was probably terrified. Who would not be if they had just been handed such a mission. Remember Joshua had been across the river. He had seen what lay on the other side; the walled cities the fierce army and the promise of God. He was sure Moses was going to get them there. Moses died and now someone had to take over. God called Joshua! “Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel.” Marching orders!
Joshua was thrust from being a minister to Moses to the one in command, into a position of great responsibility. The challenge was enormous that was handed to him. The fate of the whole Nation of Israel was not on his shoulders. The lives of over a million people were just in trusted to him. What must have been going though his head? How could he ever follow such a great leader as Moses? The night before he must have lay awake wondering and scared. In his own strength there was no way this was going to work.
He must have said, “Ok Lord now what? How am I going to get this done?” Listen to what the Lord told him, “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” Wow what a promise.
If God has given you a special task, given you a special work that He needs done and that scares you, remember the words Joshua heard, “Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” Just like Joshua we all will have to rise up and cross the river. Be it the river of fear or obstacles the promise land waits on the other side. It is up to us to go it is up to the Lord to see us through. If we faithfully do our part He will be faithful to do His part. Remember nothing happened for Joshua until he got up and did something. He had to take the first step. Just like Joshua we also must take the first step. Whether it be the first step into the isle on the way to meet Jesus or the first step to cross the river. The first step is ours the rest belong to the Lord.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Hearing The Voice Of God
Psalm 46:10, “Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.”
When God speaks how do we hear Him? Would we listen if He spoke in a rushing mighty wind or a loud booming earth shattering voice? In 1Kings 19:11-18 we find a story of a man of God, Elijah, who had call down fire and prayed and stopped the rain, who was running from a mad man and his queen. He was hiding under a juniper tree and asking God to let him die. When God spoke to Elijah He could have done so with an earthquake, with the wind or with fire but He didn’t. He spoke with a still mall voice. Surely Elijah would have heard God had God used something loud and fierce. Heard Him yes listened to Him probably not. So God asked Elijah in a soft calm voice, “What are you doing here Elijah?” God knew why Elijah was there and why he was running. We see from Elijah’s reply the depth of this misery. “I have been very jealous for the LORD God of hosts: because the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; and I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away.” He thought he was the only one serving God. Was that true? Not by a long shot. God had seven thousand who had not bowed the knee to Baal.
God got Elijah’s attention with wind, fire and rock breaking but He spoke to him in a still small voice. Sometimes we feel like our service for God is in vain. That no one hears or believes. Would we listen if God sent fire, and wind and broke rocks? Would that get our attention? In the depth of our despair and our fear we too may think we are the only one serving God. Psalm 40:10 reminds us, “Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.” The sooner we focus on Him and His power, the quicker we will see relief from our fear and self-pity.
Maybe all we need is to be quite and listen to the still small voice of God. Are we listening to the crashing cymbals of our failures or the loud trumpets of our successes that we just can’t hear God’s voice?
When God spoke to Elijah He did not speak from the things that got his attention. He spoke after Elijah was still and quiet and his mind was in tune with God. If you want to be in tune with God you must tune out the noise of the world. Hear the still small voice of God and listen to what He has to say.
When God speaks how do we hear Him? Would we listen if He spoke in a rushing mighty wind or a loud booming earth shattering voice? In 1Kings 19:11-18 we find a story of a man of God, Elijah, who had call down fire and prayed and stopped the rain, who was running from a mad man and his queen. He was hiding under a juniper tree and asking God to let him die. When God spoke to Elijah He could have done so with an earthquake, with the wind or with fire but He didn’t. He spoke with a still mall voice. Surely Elijah would have heard God had God used something loud and fierce. Heard Him yes listened to Him probably not. So God asked Elijah in a soft calm voice, “What are you doing here Elijah?” God knew why Elijah was there and why he was running. We see from Elijah’s reply the depth of this misery. “I have been very jealous for the LORD God of hosts: because the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; and I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away.” He thought he was the only one serving God. Was that true? Not by a long shot. God had seven thousand who had not bowed the knee to Baal.
God got Elijah’s attention with wind, fire and rock breaking but He spoke to him in a still small voice. Sometimes we feel like our service for God is in vain. That no one hears or believes. Would we listen if God sent fire, and wind and broke rocks? Would that get our attention? In the depth of our despair and our fear we too may think we are the only one serving God. Psalm 40:10 reminds us, “Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.” The sooner we focus on Him and His power, the quicker we will see relief from our fear and self-pity.
Maybe all we need is to be quite and listen to the still small voice of God. Are we listening to the crashing cymbals of our failures or the loud trumpets of our successes that we just can’t hear God’s voice?
When God spoke to Elijah He did not speak from the things that got his attention. He spoke after Elijah was still and quiet and his mind was in tune with God. If you want to be in tune with God you must tune out the noise of the world. Hear the still small voice of God and listen to what He has to say.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Weapons For Spirtual Warefare
2 Corinthians 10:3-4, “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds)”
When we go into battle with the powers of this world we need special weapons. In Ephesians 6:12 Paul tells us who our enemy is. “ For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” Our battle is not a carnal battle it is spiritual and we need spiritual weapons with which to fight. Paul is telling us we are engaged in mortal combat with evil and powerful, but spiritual enemies. Our weapons are well-fashioned for the war we are to fight. We are to put on the whole armor of God; armor that has been battle tested and proven. Paul is telling us the weapons we are to use he has seen pull down the evil strong holds of the enemy.
In God’s Word we find all the weaponry we will need as we prepare to do battle with the army of Satan. The power found in His Word will carry us to victory. It will give us comfort and His grace will protect us.
It may appear as though evil is winning. Appearances are deceiving as they can be nothing more than a mirage. The devil would have us to believe we cannot win. God has other ideas. God has never lost a battle and He never will.
“Put on the whole armour of God that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” (Ephesians 10:11)
God’s Word accompanied by God’s Spirit, has the power to win the most important conflicts that are raging in your life right now. So pick up your Bible and get acquainted with its contents. Learn about the weapons you have at your disposal.
When we go into battle with the powers of this world we need special weapons. In Ephesians 6:12 Paul tells us who our enemy is. “ For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” Our battle is not a carnal battle it is spiritual and we need spiritual weapons with which to fight. Paul is telling us we are engaged in mortal combat with evil and powerful, but spiritual enemies. Our weapons are well-fashioned for the war we are to fight. We are to put on the whole armor of God; armor that has been battle tested and proven. Paul is telling us the weapons we are to use he has seen pull down the evil strong holds of the enemy.
In God’s Word we find all the weaponry we will need as we prepare to do battle with the army of Satan. The power found in His Word will carry us to victory. It will give us comfort and His grace will protect us.
It may appear as though evil is winning. Appearances are deceiving as they can be nothing more than a mirage. The devil would have us to believe we cannot win. God has other ideas. God has never lost a battle and He never will.
“Put on the whole armour of God that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” (Ephesians 10:11)
God’s Word accompanied by God’s Spirit, has the power to win the most important conflicts that are raging in your life right now. So pick up your Bible and get acquainted with its contents. Learn about the weapons you have at your disposal.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Sheep In Wolves Clothing
Matthew 10:16, “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.”
Sheep are usually considered docile and non combative. Isn’t it strange Jesus would tell His disciples He was sending them in the midst of wolves? Usually the picture is different it is the wolves who are dressed as sheep so as to infiltrate and kill the sheep. But then Jesus is a very unusual shepherd. He is revealing His supernatural power, and the upside-down ways, of His kingdom by asking his children to charge in to a pack of wolves on the offensive. We usually think of Christians as being persecuted, the martyrs, the helpless---think again. Christians, when they are persecuted, are suffering because they are storming in among the wolves to fulfill their Shepherd’s calling. Jesus told His disciples the gates of hell could not withstand the onslaught of the kingdom of Christ.
Yes we are promised we will be victorious but we are warned not to go careless and reckless. We are to be wise as serpents and harmless as doves. Effective insurgence will only happen when we are behaving with the wisdom and cunning of serpents, while maintaining the warmth and gentleness of doves.
We are given orders, marching orders and we are given rules of engagement. We do not have a choice as to whether or not to engage the enemy: Jesus said, “I am sending you.” We are also not given the choice of our weaponry. Jesus tells us our weapons are wisdom and kindness, not cruelty and force.
Your mission should you decide to accept it is an unusual one. You are to change the world. You are to go as sheep on the offensive against wolves. Logic says this will never work. Without claw and club we have no chance against ravenous wolves. How can we win with kindness and wisdom? Remember your weapons are sanctified weapons and with these weapons this unlikely battle will be won. You have the promise the victory will be through Jesus Christ. The victory will be complete the enemy will be defeated.
There is one caveat you can’t stay in the pew, or in front of your TV, you have to go into the world. Into the highway and hedges and compel them to come in. You have to go where the wolves live. You have to go among them. For the battle is in the wolf pack. No battle is ever won in camp. Your commander issued these orders, “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.”
Sheep are usually considered docile and non combative. Isn’t it strange Jesus would tell His disciples He was sending them in the midst of wolves? Usually the picture is different it is the wolves who are dressed as sheep so as to infiltrate and kill the sheep. But then Jesus is a very unusual shepherd. He is revealing His supernatural power, and the upside-down ways, of His kingdom by asking his children to charge in to a pack of wolves on the offensive. We usually think of Christians as being persecuted, the martyrs, the helpless---think again. Christians, when they are persecuted, are suffering because they are storming in among the wolves to fulfill their Shepherd’s calling. Jesus told His disciples the gates of hell could not withstand the onslaught of the kingdom of Christ.
Yes we are promised we will be victorious but we are warned not to go careless and reckless. We are to be wise as serpents and harmless as doves. Effective insurgence will only happen when we are behaving with the wisdom and cunning of serpents, while maintaining the warmth and gentleness of doves.
We are given orders, marching orders and we are given rules of engagement. We do not have a choice as to whether or not to engage the enemy: Jesus said, “I am sending you.” We are also not given the choice of our weaponry. Jesus tells us our weapons are wisdom and kindness, not cruelty and force.
Your mission should you decide to accept it is an unusual one. You are to change the world. You are to go as sheep on the offensive against wolves. Logic says this will never work. Without claw and club we have no chance against ravenous wolves. How can we win with kindness and wisdom? Remember your weapons are sanctified weapons and with these weapons this unlikely battle will be won. You have the promise the victory will be through Jesus Christ. The victory will be complete the enemy will be defeated.
There is one caveat you can’t stay in the pew, or in front of your TV, you have to go into the world. Into the highway and hedges and compel them to come in. You have to go where the wolves live. You have to go among them. For the battle is in the wolf pack. No battle is ever won in camp. Your commander issued these orders, “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.”
Friday, June 24, 2011
God of All Comfort
John 15:26, “But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:”
2 Corinthians 1:3-4, “Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.”
Trial and tribulations sometimes seem to come as waves in a storm. They seem to be endless and unrelenting. Even when we feel there is no hope or all is lost Jesus is whispering, “Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest.” Rest or comfort we all are looking for that. There is no sickness, loss or pain that God is not aware of and will send comfort. Paul tells us God is the God of all comfort.
If you have ever been on a long and tiring trip and finally return back to your own home. There is a feeling of comfort. You can relax and get some rest. You stretch out on your bed or in your favorite chair and soon sleep overtakes you. When we look into God’s Word it is like that favorite chair there we find peace and comfort sent from the God of all comfort. God sends His spirit to comfort us, in fact Jesus told us the comforter will come and will be sent from God the Father. God sends His spirit to minister to our soul when we are hurting or grieving when no words can begin to relieve or touch our soul.
Everything happens for a reason in God’s plan. Have you ever stopped to consider that the trial or tribulation you may be going through God will use to let you help someone else who may be going through similar or worse tribulation. Paul seems to think this is the way God works. Who better to give comfort to others than one who has also come through the storm themselves? God’s Word brings comfort to others as we share scriptures that we ourselves have been comforted by as we struggled and overcame. As a soothing ointment to a wound brings relief so then does our testimony as we share God’s Word that helped us and gave us comfort. The very comfort that we ourselves have received, others receive comfort; this in turn, consoles us that our trial has not been in vain.
2 Corinthians 1:3-4, “Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.”
Trial and tribulations sometimes seem to come as waves in a storm. They seem to be endless and unrelenting. Even when we feel there is no hope or all is lost Jesus is whispering, “Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest.” Rest or comfort we all are looking for that. There is no sickness, loss or pain that God is not aware of and will send comfort. Paul tells us God is the God of all comfort.
If you have ever been on a long and tiring trip and finally return back to your own home. There is a feeling of comfort. You can relax and get some rest. You stretch out on your bed or in your favorite chair and soon sleep overtakes you. When we look into God’s Word it is like that favorite chair there we find peace and comfort sent from the God of all comfort. God sends His spirit to comfort us, in fact Jesus told us the comforter will come and will be sent from God the Father. God sends His spirit to minister to our soul when we are hurting or grieving when no words can begin to relieve or touch our soul.
Everything happens for a reason in God’s plan. Have you ever stopped to consider that the trial or tribulation you may be going through God will use to let you help someone else who may be going through similar or worse tribulation. Paul seems to think this is the way God works. Who better to give comfort to others than one who has also come through the storm themselves? God’s Word brings comfort to others as we share scriptures that we ourselves have been comforted by as we struggled and overcame. As a soothing ointment to a wound brings relief so then does our testimony as we share God’s Word that helped us and gave us comfort. The very comfort that we ourselves have received, others receive comfort; this in turn, consoles us that our trial has not been in vain.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
God is Hope
Psalm 9:8-10,” And he shall judge the world in righteousness, he shall minister judgment to the people in uprightness. The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.
And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee.”
We all face trial and problems at one time or another. God has made us a really great promise. The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. Trouble is a part of life. When Adam fell he took all of humanity with him. The whole world is in trouble. The magnitude of this trouble is far beyond our ability to comprehend or understand. It is in times like these we often forget God is our only source of hope, help and protection.
When we struggle with sickness, and loss we must be reminded God is still on the throne and is still in control. All things will work to good for those who love the Lord. God has a plan and He always works His plan to our best benefit. We may not always see how His plan is working but we must trust Him that it will be according to His will. When trouble comes to a marriage, or parents are struggling with a rebellious child, it must be remembered that God’s Word is our source of counsel and that God does not forsake them that seek Him.
There is one who will whisper in your ear that the trouble is too great, that there is no hope; but God is the God of Hope and it is to Him we must turn. The psalmist says “they that know thy name will put their trust in thee.”
To understand God is all powerful brings you to believe nothing is too hard for Him. No problem is too large that He cannot solve it. No need is so large that His resources cannot fill. To understand He is merciful give you hope to call upon Him in times of need. To understand He is faithful assures you He will keep His promise.
When we have problems give them to God. When we have needs ask Him to supply. When we need counsel ask for wisdom. God is our resource for all we face in this thing we call life.
And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee.”
We all face trial and problems at one time or another. God has made us a really great promise. The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. Trouble is a part of life. When Adam fell he took all of humanity with him. The whole world is in trouble. The magnitude of this trouble is far beyond our ability to comprehend or understand. It is in times like these we often forget God is our only source of hope, help and protection.
When we struggle with sickness, and loss we must be reminded God is still on the throne and is still in control. All things will work to good for those who love the Lord. God has a plan and He always works His plan to our best benefit. We may not always see how His plan is working but we must trust Him that it will be according to His will. When trouble comes to a marriage, or parents are struggling with a rebellious child, it must be remembered that God’s Word is our source of counsel and that God does not forsake them that seek Him.
There is one who will whisper in your ear that the trouble is too great, that there is no hope; but God is the God of Hope and it is to Him we must turn. The psalmist says “they that know thy name will put their trust in thee.”
To understand God is all powerful brings you to believe nothing is too hard for Him. No problem is too large that He cannot solve it. No need is so large that His resources cannot fill. To understand He is merciful give you hope to call upon Him in times of need. To understand He is faithful assures you He will keep His promise.
When we have problems give them to God. When we have needs ask Him to supply. When we need counsel ask for wisdom. God is our resource for all we face in this thing we call life.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Judgement and Knowledge
Proverbs 2:8-10, “He keepeth the paths of judgment, and preserveth the way of his saints.
Then shalt thou understand righteousness, and judgment, and equity; yea, every good path.
When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul;”
Have you ever wondered about should we even consider knowing about judgment and righteousness with all the technology and philosophy we have today? Do we really need to understand these things? Yes! Today more than ever we need to understand righteousness and judgment. To be righteous we need to be right with God. To understand judgment we need to know who will be our ultimate judge. These truths are like the law of gravity they never become irrelevant and always need to be understood.
The law of gravity states what goes up must come down. If we do not understand right and wrong, what is good and bad, how to make wise decisions, what is fair and equitable---then you will be like a person jumping off a tall building and not understanding the law of gravity. If you think you are too enlightened or too educated or the law does not apply to you do not complain as you crash into the ground.
If you do not understand the eternal truth that is found in God’s Word concerning the unchanging standard of righteousness then you will come crashing down. Life will be like studying for the wrong test, or preparing for the wrong calamity---you will be caught suddenly and tragically unawares. There is no defying or suspending the truth of God. Do you have to prepare to meet your maker, God, or can you use your education position and prestige to get into heaven? Jesus said no man can come unto the Father but through him. One day we all will have to give account of our lives. We will all have to answer a question, “What have you done with Jesus?” You will not be asked for your degree program nor will you be asked about church membership or doctrinal belief. You will be asked if you know Jesus as savior and is your name written in His book. If you cannot answer these questions with a yes you will hear these words, “Depart ye cursed into everlasting darkness.” You don’t have to believe this you don’t even have to understand or like it, but that will not change the outcome. The only thing that will change the outcome is knowing Jesus as personal savior and being washed in the blood from the cross of Calvary. Nothing else will matter. Prepare to meet thy God. Are you ready?
Then shalt thou understand righteousness, and judgment, and equity; yea, every good path.
When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul;”
Have you ever wondered about should we even consider knowing about judgment and righteousness with all the technology and philosophy we have today? Do we really need to understand these things? Yes! Today more than ever we need to understand righteousness and judgment. To be righteous we need to be right with God. To understand judgment we need to know who will be our ultimate judge. These truths are like the law of gravity they never become irrelevant and always need to be understood.
The law of gravity states what goes up must come down. If we do not understand right and wrong, what is good and bad, how to make wise decisions, what is fair and equitable---then you will be like a person jumping off a tall building and not understanding the law of gravity. If you think you are too enlightened or too educated or the law does not apply to you do not complain as you crash into the ground.
If you do not understand the eternal truth that is found in God’s Word concerning the unchanging standard of righteousness then you will come crashing down. Life will be like studying for the wrong test, or preparing for the wrong calamity---you will be caught suddenly and tragically unawares. There is no defying or suspending the truth of God. Do you have to prepare to meet your maker, God, or can you use your education position and prestige to get into heaven? Jesus said no man can come unto the Father but through him. One day we all will have to give account of our lives. We will all have to answer a question, “What have you done with Jesus?” You will not be asked for your degree program nor will you be asked about church membership or doctrinal belief. You will be asked if you know Jesus as savior and is your name written in His book. If you cannot answer these questions with a yes you will hear these words, “Depart ye cursed into everlasting darkness.” You don’t have to believe this you don’t even have to understand or like it, but that will not change the outcome. The only thing that will change the outcome is knowing Jesus as personal savior and being washed in the blood from the cross of Calvary. Nothing else will matter. Prepare to meet thy God. Are you ready?
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Making The Right Decision
1 Samuel 23:4, “Then David inquired of the LORD yet again. And the LORD answered him and said, Arise, go down to Keilah; for I will deliver the Philistines into thine hand.”
David was a mighty leader and one who made decisions that affected many. We are told in scripture nine different times David “enquired of the Lord”. In other words David went to God and asks Him what he was to do. Each of the times David went to god for guidance was after he was a great leader. One thing David shows us is to be a great leader you must be a good follower. David was a follower of God and always sought His leadership and guidance. David sought God’s advice from the mundane to the most important matters.
Many times we are faced with decisions that have challenges and our first inclination, epically if others are waiting or relying on for our answer, is to make hasty decisions based on the understanding of the moment. Even when David was faced with a life threatening decision he sought the Lord for direction before he moved. We should all develop a habit like that.
There is no doubt you may have sought God’s advice in a particular situation, whether it was a career change, relocation or other life changing action. You may have received clear direction for the last major decision you made. A fresh challenge has presented itself what should you do? Do like David, enquire of the Lord yet again. You can’t be too dependent on God. He never wearies of our questions. In fact he really wants to hear from us all the time.
You may never be faced with crisis like David when all his men turned against him and all the dependents of his soldiers were missing and thought dead. The encouragement example David set, He went to the Lord yet again, and the Lord answered him. He always answers those who inquire of him, and so he will answer you when you call upon him and inquire of him.
What a great God we have who is always near and hears our every prayer. Will guide our every footstep and shield us from every evil. All we have to do is ask. Jesus gave us this encouragement found in Mathew 7:7-8, “Ask, and it shall be given you, seek and ye shall find; knock and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.”
Do like David and inquired of the LORD yet again.
David was a mighty leader and one who made decisions that affected many. We are told in scripture nine different times David “enquired of the Lord”. In other words David went to God and asks Him what he was to do. Each of the times David went to god for guidance was after he was a great leader. One thing David shows us is to be a great leader you must be a good follower. David was a follower of God and always sought His leadership and guidance. David sought God’s advice from the mundane to the most important matters.
Many times we are faced with decisions that have challenges and our first inclination, epically if others are waiting or relying on for our answer, is to make hasty decisions based on the understanding of the moment. Even when David was faced with a life threatening decision he sought the Lord for direction before he moved. We should all develop a habit like that.
There is no doubt you may have sought God’s advice in a particular situation, whether it was a career change, relocation or other life changing action. You may have received clear direction for the last major decision you made. A fresh challenge has presented itself what should you do? Do like David, enquire of the Lord yet again. You can’t be too dependent on God. He never wearies of our questions. In fact he really wants to hear from us all the time.
You may never be faced with crisis like David when all his men turned against him and all the dependents of his soldiers were missing and thought dead. The encouragement example David set, He went to the Lord yet again, and the Lord answered him. He always answers those who inquire of him, and so he will answer you when you call upon him and inquire of him.
What a great God we have who is always near and hears our every prayer. Will guide our every footstep and shield us from every evil. All we have to do is ask. Jesus gave us this encouragement found in Mathew 7:7-8, “Ask, and it shall be given you, seek and ye shall find; knock and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.”
Do like David and inquired of the LORD yet again.
Monday, June 20, 2011
How Big Is Your God?
Psalm 2:8, “Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession.”
Deuteronomy 1:11,” The LORD God of your fathers make you a thousand times so many more as ye are, and bless you, as he hath promised you!”
When we think small we get small. When we limit God we limit ourselves. The creator of the universe the maker of all things has infinite resources and nothing is too hard or too big that God cannot deal with or handle. Our natural thought process usually does not allow us to go beyond the natural boundary of logic and reason.
God is unlimited in His ability and resources and He has the desire to provide for and bless His children. How then do we limit almighty God? “O ye of little faith,” Jesus said. We think in the realm of the natural, God works in the realm of the supernatural. When we pray we ask for a dime when the Lord is holding a dollar. We ask for a sandwich when God has a banquet planned.
In 1 Chronicles 4:10 we find a man much like we yet he prayed a big prayer. Prayed a bold prayer and fully expected God to answer. Jabez prayed asking God to increase his coast and bless him indeed, to protect him from evil and God did.
Jesus told us if you have the faith as the grain of mustard seed you can move mountains. Do you want to move mountains or just kick rocks? In James 5:16 we are instructed, “The effectual fervent prayer of the righteous man availeth much.” Take a look at the differences between the righteous (right with God) man and the unrighteous (not right with God) man. They are totally different people with totally different outcomes in life even though they may occupy the same space on this earth they may work at the same job, partake of some of the same recreational activities, and even attend the same church. Look what it did not say, it did not mention being perfect. This righteous condition affects our prayer life. How do we get to be righteous? Forgive as we are forgiven, love your neighbor and you love yourself, and put God first in your life.
God is a big God and only wants what is best for Hid kids. God is only limited by our thinking. If mustard seed faith moves mountains just think what marble size faith would do. Jesus gave us the answer in Matthew 21:20-22, “And when the disciples saw it, they marvelled, saying, How soon is the fig tree withered away! Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done. And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.”
How big is your God? He is only as big as you let Him be.
Deuteronomy 1:11,” The LORD God of your fathers make you a thousand times so many more as ye are, and bless you, as he hath promised you!”
When we think small we get small. When we limit God we limit ourselves. The creator of the universe the maker of all things has infinite resources and nothing is too hard or too big that God cannot deal with or handle. Our natural thought process usually does not allow us to go beyond the natural boundary of logic and reason.
God is unlimited in His ability and resources and He has the desire to provide for and bless His children. How then do we limit almighty God? “O ye of little faith,” Jesus said. We think in the realm of the natural, God works in the realm of the supernatural. When we pray we ask for a dime when the Lord is holding a dollar. We ask for a sandwich when God has a banquet planned.
In 1 Chronicles 4:10 we find a man much like we yet he prayed a big prayer. Prayed a bold prayer and fully expected God to answer. Jabez prayed asking God to increase his coast and bless him indeed, to protect him from evil and God did.
Jesus told us if you have the faith as the grain of mustard seed you can move mountains. Do you want to move mountains or just kick rocks? In James 5:16 we are instructed, “The effectual fervent prayer of the righteous man availeth much.” Take a look at the differences between the righteous (right with God) man and the unrighteous (not right with God) man. They are totally different people with totally different outcomes in life even though they may occupy the same space on this earth they may work at the same job, partake of some of the same recreational activities, and even attend the same church. Look what it did not say, it did not mention being perfect. This righteous condition affects our prayer life. How do we get to be righteous? Forgive as we are forgiven, love your neighbor and you love yourself, and put God first in your life.
God is a big God and only wants what is best for Hid kids. God is only limited by our thinking. If mustard seed faith moves mountains just think what marble size faith would do. Jesus gave us the answer in Matthew 21:20-22, “And when the disciples saw it, they marvelled, saying, How soon is the fig tree withered away! Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done. And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.”
How big is your God? He is only as big as you let Him be.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Mental Illness or Demon Inhabitation
This may seem a strange subject for devotion but it is real and we must be aware.
Acts 8:7-8
Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them. And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed. And there was great joy in that city.
There's a biblical subject that isn't talked about or mentioned in most churches or even considered a possibility by many Christians -- demon inhabitation. If Phillip had come to your town instead of Samaria, and he had run across someone inhabited by a demon -- what do you think "our" diagnosis and recommended course of treatment would involve? When we see unnatural behavior, we immediately think mental illness. This is sensible -- there is evidence that many strange behaviors in people are nothing more than mental issues. Our solution might be to get the person to a crisis center or into some type of counseling (which might involve a drug therapy as well). My point is that the thought of demon inhabitation does not even enter our minds.
Why is that? Has demon activity ended? Hardly! Has it moved to places nobody goes? In other words, have demons decided to ignore civilized or "Christian" settings? Biblical evidence suggests demons were exceptionally active in regions where God was worshipped. I believe our lack of awareness is because the "enemy" has so successfully penetrated our culture and even our churches that he has completely camouflaged himself from our thought process. If we saw the devil as a man is a red suit with horns and a pitchfork we would know immediately who he was. But would you ever expect to see the devil robed as a sweet little blue hair lady? It is doubt full but it can as does happen. The popular Christian views relating to demon inhabitation is that it is either a "superstition," is so rare as to not be a concern, or only possible in a third world country. It certainly could not happen in my town in the good old U.S. of A. Want to bet your life on that idea? We hold these opinions despite the fact that Jesus Himself regularly addressed the issue of demons (Mark 1:23-26, 5:2-20, 7:25-30) and in Matthew 12:23-27 confirmed that one of the signs that the kingdom of God had come to His believers was the casting out of demons. As we see in our passage today, the disciples of the new church followed Jesus' instructions and example and cast out demons wherever they went -- what followed was great joy, "...evil spirits came out of many... so there was great joy in that city."
You will note that whenever Jesus spoke, demons were forced to obey (Mark 1:27; Luke 4:41); Jesus gave His disciples this same power through His name (Matthew 10:1,8); and which we have inherited as "co-heirs" with Christ (Romans 8:17). So there is no need for us to fear demons. However it would be irresponsible for us to ignore their existence and their influence on both the believer and unbeliever.
Satan uses unsuspecting people to do his bidding. Uses them to destroy the home, tear down the moral fiber and infect the minds of children. He does it in such a subtle way we never even suspect what is happening until we find ourselves in a battle to save our lives or the lives of those we love. The devil has not gone into hiding he is very active in the world today. In fact he is hiding in plain sight. He might even be next door across the street or in the pew behind you.
Acts 8:7-8
Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them. And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed. And there was great joy in that city.
There's a biblical subject that isn't talked about or mentioned in most churches or even considered a possibility by many Christians -- demon inhabitation. If Phillip had come to your town instead of Samaria, and he had run across someone inhabited by a demon -- what do you think "our" diagnosis and recommended course of treatment would involve? When we see unnatural behavior, we immediately think mental illness. This is sensible -- there is evidence that many strange behaviors in people are nothing more than mental issues. Our solution might be to get the person to a crisis center or into some type of counseling (which might involve a drug therapy as well). My point is that the thought of demon inhabitation does not even enter our minds.
Why is that? Has demon activity ended? Hardly! Has it moved to places nobody goes? In other words, have demons decided to ignore civilized or "Christian" settings? Biblical evidence suggests demons were exceptionally active in regions where God was worshipped. I believe our lack of awareness is because the "enemy" has so successfully penetrated our culture and even our churches that he has completely camouflaged himself from our thought process. If we saw the devil as a man is a red suit with horns and a pitchfork we would know immediately who he was. But would you ever expect to see the devil robed as a sweet little blue hair lady? It is doubt full but it can as does happen. The popular Christian views relating to demon inhabitation is that it is either a "superstition," is so rare as to not be a concern, or only possible in a third world country. It certainly could not happen in my town in the good old U.S. of A. Want to bet your life on that idea? We hold these opinions despite the fact that Jesus Himself regularly addressed the issue of demons (Mark 1:23-26, 5:2-20, 7:25-30) and in Matthew 12:23-27 confirmed that one of the signs that the kingdom of God had come to His believers was the casting out of demons. As we see in our passage today, the disciples of the new church followed Jesus' instructions and example and cast out demons wherever they went -- what followed was great joy, "...evil spirits came out of many... so there was great joy in that city."
You will note that whenever Jesus spoke, demons were forced to obey (Mark 1:27; Luke 4:41); Jesus gave His disciples this same power through His name (Matthew 10:1,8); and which we have inherited as "co-heirs" with Christ (Romans 8:17). So there is no need for us to fear demons. However it would be irresponsible for us to ignore their existence and their influence on both the believer and unbeliever.
Satan uses unsuspecting people to do his bidding. Uses them to destroy the home, tear down the moral fiber and infect the minds of children. He does it in such a subtle way we never even suspect what is happening until we find ourselves in a battle to save our lives or the lives of those we love. The devil has not gone into hiding he is very active in the world today. In fact he is hiding in plain sight. He might even be next door across the street or in the pew behind you.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
When Bad Is Good
1 Thessalonians 2:18-19, “Wherefore we would have come unto you, even I Paul, once and again; but Satan hindered us. For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?
In Paul’s writings to the churches we see a man who defied not only the religious crowd of his day he also defied the devil. When you hear that a child of God, epically one like Paul, was hindered by Satan does that disturb you? How could a man so great as Paul be hindered by the devil? After all he was doing God’s work so how could Satan hinder him? Well let us remember nothing happens without God’s knowledge or consent. The Lord can take any deed, whether of Satan or of man and turn it around for His own purposes and glory. A great example of that is how the devil hindered Paul and kept him from visiting the church at Thessalonica this has resulted in him writing a letter which has turned into a book of the New Testament; a book that has brought great benefit and comfort to Christians down through the centuries.
I am also reminded of something Joseph told to his brothers who had sold him into slavery. Remember they were afraid he would seek revenge on them now that he was a powerful man in Egypt. In Genesis 50:20 we find Joseph’s words, “And Joseph said unto them, Fear not: for am I in the place of God?
But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.”
What a comfort to know that nothing happens that is not in God’s will. He is all knowing and all wise and all powerful. Under God’s control, evil can be turned around to accomplish His good and purpose. Even the darkest storm has a silver lining in God’s eyes. We should all then pray and give thanks that God is in control and His will be done, even when we can’t see how good can come from anything evil. Remember God has never lost a battle with Satan and He is not about to start.
God can bring showers of blessings out of storms of adversity.
In Paul’s writings to the churches we see a man who defied not only the religious crowd of his day he also defied the devil. When you hear that a child of God, epically one like Paul, was hindered by Satan does that disturb you? How could a man so great as Paul be hindered by the devil? After all he was doing God’s work so how could Satan hinder him? Well let us remember nothing happens without God’s knowledge or consent. The Lord can take any deed, whether of Satan or of man and turn it around for His own purposes and glory. A great example of that is how the devil hindered Paul and kept him from visiting the church at Thessalonica this has resulted in him writing a letter which has turned into a book of the New Testament; a book that has brought great benefit and comfort to Christians down through the centuries.
I am also reminded of something Joseph told to his brothers who had sold him into slavery. Remember they were afraid he would seek revenge on them now that he was a powerful man in Egypt. In Genesis 50:20 we find Joseph’s words, “And Joseph said unto them, Fear not: for am I in the place of God?
But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.”
What a comfort to know that nothing happens that is not in God’s will. He is all knowing and all wise and all powerful. Under God’s control, evil can be turned around to accomplish His good and purpose. Even the darkest storm has a silver lining in God’s eyes. We should all then pray and give thanks that God is in control and His will be done, even when we can’t see how good can come from anything evil. Remember God has never lost a battle with Satan and He is not about to start.
God can bring showers of blessings out of storms of adversity.
Friday, June 17, 2011
God's Grace
Acts 5:41-42
And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.
What would you think if on a vacation trip you came across a bridge as grand as the Golden Gate Bridge and it crossed a dry creek bed with a sign pointing the way to Turtle Soup Junction? Ridiculous comes to mind. Who would put such a bridge here?
The Lord also would not and does not display His power and grace at an inappropriate time or place. What He does do is provides His power, mercy and grace according to the difficulty of the hour. He does not give us strength until we need it. Then and only then do we see just how great He truly is.
Though the bible we see where examples of the extreme suffering and shame endured by those who followed Jesus. These experiences cause us to shudder to even try to imagine how anyone would have so much faithfulness to endure what they did for the cause of Christ. Many chose the path of intense suffering rather than follow the line of least resistance. I wonder what we would do if we were in their place?
The Lord does not ask us to make such commitment before it is necessary. But should that become necessary He will provide whatever is necessary to endure the hardship or pain. Thankfully we may not ever have to endure what those who have gone before endured but our challenges and hardships may be just as severe. No matter the trial God will give us the grace and support we need when we need it.
As servants of Christ, we can step with confidence knowing our Lord is right at our side and will guide and protect every step. No matter if our path crosses a dried up creek or a raging river the Lord will build a bridge of grace that we can confidently pass with safety. Will the trip be rocky? Yes! Will we get wet or dusty most probably? Yea though I pass through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil. Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
“Each day God sends His loving aid to strengthen you and me; we need to use today’s supply and let tomorrow be.” ---Anonymous
And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.
What would you think if on a vacation trip you came across a bridge as grand as the Golden Gate Bridge and it crossed a dry creek bed with a sign pointing the way to Turtle Soup Junction? Ridiculous comes to mind. Who would put such a bridge here?
The Lord also would not and does not display His power and grace at an inappropriate time or place. What He does do is provides His power, mercy and grace according to the difficulty of the hour. He does not give us strength until we need it. Then and only then do we see just how great He truly is.
Though the bible we see where examples of the extreme suffering and shame endured by those who followed Jesus. These experiences cause us to shudder to even try to imagine how anyone would have so much faithfulness to endure what they did for the cause of Christ. Many chose the path of intense suffering rather than follow the line of least resistance. I wonder what we would do if we were in their place?
The Lord does not ask us to make such commitment before it is necessary. But should that become necessary He will provide whatever is necessary to endure the hardship or pain. Thankfully we may not ever have to endure what those who have gone before endured but our challenges and hardships may be just as severe. No matter the trial God will give us the grace and support we need when we need it.
As servants of Christ, we can step with confidence knowing our Lord is right at our side and will guide and protect every step. No matter if our path crosses a dried up creek or a raging river the Lord will build a bridge of grace that we can confidently pass with safety. Will the trip be rocky? Yes! Will we get wet or dusty most probably? Yea though I pass through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil. Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
“Each day God sends His loving aid to strengthen you and me; we need to use today’s supply and let tomorrow be.” ---Anonymous
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Learning To Fly
Deuteronomy 32:11, “As an eagle stirreth up her nest, fluttereth over her young, spreadeth abroad her wings, taketh them, beareth them on her wings:”
We can learn much by watching nature and how God cares for all His creations. Today’s passage taken from Deuteronomy32:1-12 we see God portrayed as a dedicated mother eagle who can be trusted by her young, even in the scary experience of learning to fly.
An eagle builds her nest high on the side of a mountain so as to protect her young. She prepares the nest with her own breast feathers and makes it as comfortable and secure as possible. Each eagle is given the instinct not only to build a secure environment but also knows she must force her young out of the nest one day. Eagles are made to fly; to soar above the clouds but each one must be taught how to fly. The mother eagle never fails to teach each one how to fly. Only then will they become what they were meant to be.
When the day comes to start the flying lessons the mother eagle tears up the comfortable nest and forces each eaglet out. She makes what once was a warm secure place uncomfortable. Then she picks up each perplexed eaglet, soars into the sky and drops it. The little birds will begin to free-fall. Where is momma now? She is not far away. Quickly she will swoop down under and catch the fledgling on one of her strong wings. This lesson is repeated until each eaglet is able to soar on their own.
We all need to learn how to fly. Sometimes we are forced out of our comfort zone and dropped. Free-falling is scary and we are afraid of how hard we will land. Just like the mother eagle God will fly to our rescue and spread His everlasting arms beneath us. Each lesson will give us new strength to face the future ahead. Just like the young eagles we will rise and soar above the clouds with God as our guide. Trust God to teach us how to fly and there are no heights we cannot reach.
We can learn much by watching nature and how God cares for all His creations. Today’s passage taken from Deuteronomy32:1-12 we see God portrayed as a dedicated mother eagle who can be trusted by her young, even in the scary experience of learning to fly.
An eagle builds her nest high on the side of a mountain so as to protect her young. She prepares the nest with her own breast feathers and makes it as comfortable and secure as possible. Each eagle is given the instinct not only to build a secure environment but also knows she must force her young out of the nest one day. Eagles are made to fly; to soar above the clouds but each one must be taught how to fly. The mother eagle never fails to teach each one how to fly. Only then will they become what they were meant to be.
When the day comes to start the flying lessons the mother eagle tears up the comfortable nest and forces each eaglet out. She makes what once was a warm secure place uncomfortable. Then she picks up each perplexed eaglet, soars into the sky and drops it. The little birds will begin to free-fall. Where is momma now? She is not far away. Quickly she will swoop down under and catch the fledgling on one of her strong wings. This lesson is repeated until each eaglet is able to soar on their own.
We all need to learn how to fly. Sometimes we are forced out of our comfort zone and dropped. Free-falling is scary and we are afraid of how hard we will land. Just like the mother eagle God will fly to our rescue and spread His everlasting arms beneath us. Each lesson will give us new strength to face the future ahead. Just like the young eagles we will rise and soar above the clouds with God as our guide. Trust God to teach us how to fly and there are no heights we cannot reach.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
It's God's Song
Ephesians 2:8-10
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
There is a story about a church organist and Felix Mendelssohn and beautiful music. The story goes that the organist was practicing a selection composed by Felix Mendelssohn. Struggle though he might he was not able to get the music to flow as it was written. He tried and he tried and was so intent on working he failed to notice a stranger who had come in and set in the back of the church. Finally in frustration the organist closed his book and got up to leave. As he was about to leave the stranger approached and asked if he might play the organ. “No” was the reply. “I don’t let anyone touch this organ.” The stranger made two more polite requests and finally the organist agreed to let him play the organ.
As the stranger began to play the old organ seem to come to life and the church was filled with the most beautiful flawless music the organist had ever heard. When he had finished the organist asked, “Who are you?” The man replied, “I am Felix Mendelssohn.” The organist had almost prevented the song’s composer from playing his own music.
We too may be like that organist when we try to play the chords of our lives and prevent the Creator from making beautiful music. Like the stubborn organist we are reluctant to take our fingers off the keys. As His people, we are “created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand.” (Ephesians 2:10) But our lives will not produce beautiful music unless we let Him work through us.
Maybe we need to take our fingers off the keys and let the Master show us how the symphony He has written for us should sound. It’s God’s song let Him play it.
God’s ability is not limited by our inability. Let’s let him have His way in us.
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
There is a story about a church organist and Felix Mendelssohn and beautiful music. The story goes that the organist was practicing a selection composed by Felix Mendelssohn. Struggle though he might he was not able to get the music to flow as it was written. He tried and he tried and was so intent on working he failed to notice a stranger who had come in and set in the back of the church. Finally in frustration the organist closed his book and got up to leave. As he was about to leave the stranger approached and asked if he might play the organ. “No” was the reply. “I don’t let anyone touch this organ.” The stranger made two more polite requests and finally the organist agreed to let him play the organ.
As the stranger began to play the old organ seem to come to life and the church was filled with the most beautiful flawless music the organist had ever heard. When he had finished the organist asked, “Who are you?” The man replied, “I am Felix Mendelssohn.” The organist had almost prevented the song’s composer from playing his own music.
We too may be like that organist when we try to play the chords of our lives and prevent the Creator from making beautiful music. Like the stubborn organist we are reluctant to take our fingers off the keys. As His people, we are “created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand.” (Ephesians 2:10) But our lives will not produce beautiful music unless we let Him work through us.
Maybe we need to take our fingers off the keys and let the Master show us how the symphony He has written for us should sound. It’s God’s song let Him play it.
God’s ability is not limited by our inability. Let’s let him have His way in us.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Knowing God
Jeremiah 9:23-24, “Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD.
It is one thing to know about God it is quite another to know Him personally. Many today know about Jesus, have heard sermons about Him, and have heard stories of His life and death. How many actually have a personal relationship with the Son of God? It is sad but true many know about Jesus but do not know Him, have never met Him on a personal level.
When we think about God being present everywhere it is overwhelming to our finite minds. But to be aware of His presence in times of need brings comfort and hope. The thought that God knows everything about everything and sees every action hears ever word is mind-boggling. But to have the confidence that no detail of our lives escapes His attention is to enjoy a peace that endures every trial.
When we consider the Lord is all powerful makes us marvel at His greatness. When we consider the creator of the universe, the maker of all we see and the earth upon which we walk we can only wonder how He could love us as he does. Yet when we trust in Him we have the comfort as we relax in His mighty arms. Just like a child nestled in its mothers arms we are secure in God’s care.
As we consider He never changes is a reassuring truth as we commit our lives to His tender loving care. It is a stabling fact and encourages us of His faithfulness.
The thought that God is love is wonderful to contemplate. But to know Him as a loving redeemer through personal faith in His Son, Jesus Christ brings the joy of sins forgiven. It brings a peace that passeth all understanding. Yes many know about Jesus, have heard about God and His greatness and Love but do not know Him personally. Are you among that crowd? God’s greatest desire is to get to know you personally. Jesus loved you so much He willingly took your place on the cross so you could be free. Do you know Him?
Knowing about God is fascinating; knowing God personally is life-changing.
It is one thing to know about God it is quite another to know Him personally. Many today know about Jesus, have heard sermons about Him, and have heard stories of His life and death. How many actually have a personal relationship with the Son of God? It is sad but true many know about Jesus but do not know Him, have never met Him on a personal level.
When we think about God being present everywhere it is overwhelming to our finite minds. But to be aware of His presence in times of need brings comfort and hope. The thought that God knows everything about everything and sees every action hears ever word is mind-boggling. But to have the confidence that no detail of our lives escapes His attention is to enjoy a peace that endures every trial.
When we consider the Lord is all powerful makes us marvel at His greatness. When we consider the creator of the universe, the maker of all we see and the earth upon which we walk we can only wonder how He could love us as he does. Yet when we trust in Him we have the comfort as we relax in His mighty arms. Just like a child nestled in its mothers arms we are secure in God’s care.
As we consider He never changes is a reassuring truth as we commit our lives to His tender loving care. It is a stabling fact and encourages us of His faithfulness.
The thought that God is love is wonderful to contemplate. But to know Him as a loving redeemer through personal faith in His Son, Jesus Christ brings the joy of sins forgiven. It brings a peace that passeth all understanding. Yes many know about Jesus, have heard about God and His greatness and Love but do not know Him personally. Are you among that crowd? God’s greatest desire is to get to know you personally. Jesus loved you so much He willingly took your place on the cross so you could be free. Do you know Him?
Knowing about God is fascinating; knowing God personally is life-changing.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Just Killing Time
Ephesians 5:16-17, “Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.”
Have you ever heard someone say they were just killing time? Why would someone want to waste something as valuable as time much less kill it? We are only given so much time on this earth. Time should never be wasted but used to the best advantage possible. Yes we all waste time at one time or another. Of course there are times when we need to relax and rest, but that is not wasting time it is using it for restoration. Jesus even took time out to rest and prepare for doing something more fruitful and profitable. In Mark 6:31he told His disciples “Come aside…and rest a while.”
If just a small amount of the time we waste could be used to seek God’s face and learn of Him and His will how much more able would we be to do what His has designed us to do? I can hear all the excused building up; I have to get ready for work, I need to do this or that, there is just so much time in the day and I have so much to do. But if we stopped and took time to pray, to study God’s Word how mu8ch more would we be able to do?
How long does it take to pray for a sick friend? How much time in your busy day would it take for you give thanks to God for letting you have one more day? Would you consider time wasted if you were to tell someone about Jesus, or comfort someone who is grieving, visit a friend who is in distress? Today, when you have some leisure time, ask yourself how you could improve and make best use of those moments? You may think I am asking too much but then I must ask you to remember what God’s Word says, “Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.” Are you too busy for God? He is not too busy for you? You can never make up the time you waste; once it is gone it can never be replaced. Use the time allotted wisely, waste it and it is gone forever. Time is precious and valuable that is why God only gives us so much. It is our responsibility to use the time we have as wisely as possible. Time—use it or lose it your choice.
Have you ever heard someone say they were just killing time? Why would someone want to waste something as valuable as time much less kill it? We are only given so much time on this earth. Time should never be wasted but used to the best advantage possible. Yes we all waste time at one time or another. Of course there are times when we need to relax and rest, but that is not wasting time it is using it for restoration. Jesus even took time out to rest and prepare for doing something more fruitful and profitable. In Mark 6:31he told His disciples “Come aside…and rest a while.”
If just a small amount of the time we waste could be used to seek God’s face and learn of Him and His will how much more able would we be to do what His has designed us to do? I can hear all the excused building up; I have to get ready for work, I need to do this or that, there is just so much time in the day and I have so much to do. But if we stopped and took time to pray, to study God’s Word how mu8ch more would we be able to do?
How long does it take to pray for a sick friend? How much time in your busy day would it take for you give thanks to God for letting you have one more day? Would you consider time wasted if you were to tell someone about Jesus, or comfort someone who is grieving, visit a friend who is in distress? Today, when you have some leisure time, ask yourself how you could improve and make best use of those moments? You may think I am asking too much but then I must ask you to remember what God’s Word says, “Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.” Are you too busy for God? He is not too busy for you? You can never make up the time you waste; once it is gone it can never be replaced. Use the time allotted wisely, waste it and it is gone forever. Time is precious and valuable that is why God only gives us so much. It is our responsibility to use the time we have as wisely as possible. Time—use it or lose it your choice.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Got The Blues
Philippians 4:19, “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
Psalms 42:11, “Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.”
We all get the blues at one time or another. We get weighed down with the cares of this world and the problem that seem to come out of nowhere. Maybe we have too much to do, too many problems, too little of the necessities of life and we feel as if we are alone and abandoned. In others we get a case of the blues. It does not matter what caused this condition the result is the same. We have no strength, no desire to do anything your joy seems to have been crushed out.
Well my friend I have some great news for you! There is a cure for the blues. Whenever the blues threaten to destroy your day try these blues-chasers:
Problem: Things seem impossible. Answer: All things are possible with God Luke 18:27
Problem: Life is wearing you out: Answer: Jesus offers rest for your soul Matthew 11:28
Problem: Having trouble forgiving yourself. Answer: The Lord will forgive all who confess their sin to Him 1 John 1:9
Problem: You are afraid. Answer: God will give you strength and help. Isaiah 41:10
Problem: When you get worried and anxious. Answer: Case your cares on God, for He cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7
Problem: You feel alone and abandoned. Answer: The Lord promises never to leave you nor forsake you. Hebrews 13:5
Trust God to answer when you call. Listen to the answers He gives to solve the problems in your life and remember God really loves His children. Here is a quote worth putting on the fridge:
Do not doubt God’s tender mercy, Trust His word and seek His way; You will find His grace sufficient for the burdens of today.---Anonymous
Psalms 42:11, “Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.”
We all get the blues at one time or another. We get weighed down with the cares of this world and the problem that seem to come out of nowhere. Maybe we have too much to do, too many problems, too little of the necessities of life and we feel as if we are alone and abandoned. In others we get a case of the blues. It does not matter what caused this condition the result is the same. We have no strength, no desire to do anything your joy seems to have been crushed out.
Well my friend I have some great news for you! There is a cure for the blues. Whenever the blues threaten to destroy your day try these blues-chasers:
Problem: Things seem impossible. Answer: All things are possible with God Luke 18:27
Problem: Life is wearing you out: Answer: Jesus offers rest for your soul Matthew 11:28
Problem: Having trouble forgiving yourself. Answer: The Lord will forgive all who confess their sin to Him 1 John 1:9
Problem: You are afraid. Answer: God will give you strength and help. Isaiah 41:10
Problem: When you get worried and anxious. Answer: Case your cares on God, for He cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7
Problem: You feel alone and abandoned. Answer: The Lord promises never to leave you nor forsake you. Hebrews 13:5
Trust God to answer when you call. Listen to the answers He gives to solve the problems in your life and remember God really loves His children. Here is a quote worth putting on the fridge:
Do not doubt God’s tender mercy, Trust His word and seek His way; You will find His grace sufficient for the burdens of today.---Anonymous
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Light Where There Is Darkness
Psalm 112:4 “Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness: he is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous.”
Recently I was studying and reading when I heard a very loud clap of thunder and everything went black. There was no light, no power; nothing my world just went dark. I blindly searched for my flash light and when I felt its familiar shape I turned it on and it penetrated the darkness and gave me some peace. As I sat in the darkness and quite of my home with just this small beam of light I started to think about how God sent His Son to light a darkened world.
Life is not always filled with joy and light sometimes darkness over takes us and we are left setting in darkness. Have you ever woke up in the middle of the night and got out of bed and stumbled around in the darkness until you find the light switch. As you were searching for the switch you may have stumbled over things you could not see, kicked things that were in your path that caused pain. Had there been light you would not have such a problem. By turning on the light you can now see how to get around without running into things.
In a similar way, God lights our path through life. When we trust in Jesus as our Savior, He who is the Light of the World enters our lives and removes the darkness of our sin and despair. His light comforts us and shows us the way. In the midst of sadness, trouble, illness, or disappointment, the Lord brightens the way and encourages His children by giving hope. Notice He gives His kids light and hope, but what about those who do not know Christ? They are like someone who does not have power in their house. They walk around in the dark running into everything in their path.
Those of us who know Jesus have the light even in the darkest times. There is hope in the Lord. Psalms 112: 7, “He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the LORD.” Our enemy the devil walketh around seeking whom he may devour by keeping us in the dark. But we have a light source that cannot be quenched and is ever bright. We also have a promise from the Lord look at Psalms 112: 8-10, “His heart is established, he shall not be afraid, until he see his desire upon his enemies. He hath dispersed, he hath given to the poor; his righteousness endureth for ever; his horn shall be exalted with honour. The wicked shall see it, and be grieved; he shall gnash with his teeth, and melt away: the desire of the wicked shall perish.” Jesus is the light and has the power to defeat even our most fierce enemy. He can keep us from stumbling over things that can hurt us. Trust in the Lord and He will light your path.
Recently I was studying and reading when I heard a very loud clap of thunder and everything went black. There was no light, no power; nothing my world just went dark. I blindly searched for my flash light and when I felt its familiar shape I turned it on and it penetrated the darkness and gave me some peace. As I sat in the darkness and quite of my home with just this small beam of light I started to think about how God sent His Son to light a darkened world.
Life is not always filled with joy and light sometimes darkness over takes us and we are left setting in darkness. Have you ever woke up in the middle of the night and got out of bed and stumbled around in the darkness until you find the light switch. As you were searching for the switch you may have stumbled over things you could not see, kicked things that were in your path that caused pain. Had there been light you would not have such a problem. By turning on the light you can now see how to get around without running into things.
In a similar way, God lights our path through life. When we trust in Jesus as our Savior, He who is the Light of the World enters our lives and removes the darkness of our sin and despair. His light comforts us and shows us the way. In the midst of sadness, trouble, illness, or disappointment, the Lord brightens the way and encourages His children by giving hope. Notice He gives His kids light and hope, but what about those who do not know Christ? They are like someone who does not have power in their house. They walk around in the dark running into everything in their path.
Those of us who know Jesus have the light even in the darkest times. There is hope in the Lord. Psalms 112: 7, “He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the LORD.” Our enemy the devil walketh around seeking whom he may devour by keeping us in the dark. But we have a light source that cannot be quenched and is ever bright. We also have a promise from the Lord look at Psalms 112: 8-10, “His heart is established, he shall not be afraid, until he see his desire upon his enemies. He hath dispersed, he hath given to the poor; his righteousness endureth for ever; his horn shall be exalted with honour. The wicked shall see it, and be grieved; he shall gnash with his teeth, and melt away: the desire of the wicked shall perish.” Jesus is the light and has the power to defeat even our most fierce enemy. He can keep us from stumbling over things that can hurt us. Trust in the Lord and He will light your path.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Thunderstorm Thoughts
Philippians 4:8-9, “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.”
Have you ever noticed that we all try to talk above the noise of a storm? We seem to think if we shout we will be heard over the thunder wind and rain. Maybe the storm is not outside but it is in our head. It happens when we are involved with a tragedy—loss of a loved one or someone close to us, or when it looks like the whole world is about to cave in on us. Our minds become the tempest of “what if” questions. We focus on all the possible bad outcomes. Our fear, worry and trust in God fluctuate as we wait, we pray, we grieve, and we wonder what the Lord will do.
This is all natural and we should be fearful in a storm whether that storm is in our back yard or in our head. In Matthew 8:23-27 we find a story about Jesus and His disciples taking a boat trip when a storm rose and they were tossed on the waves. Picture this, the disciples had Jesus right there in the boat with them yet they were afraid of the storm. The boat was rocking the waves were splashing over the sides yet Jesus was asleep resting. They woke Him and cried do you not care we parish? Jesus used this to show God’s power as He smiled and spoke to the waves to be still. He also showed them just how powerful God is and how much He does care for them.
We all wish Jesus will calm the storms in our lives as He did that night on the boat. But remember He let the storm rage for a time to get the attention of the disciples before He calmed the storm and He does the same for us. When we are anchored in the Lord we can always find peace. We can rest assured Jesus is right there in the boat with us and He will not let it sink or lose us in the storm. He really cares for us and loves us. Do we love Him as much as He loves us? Are we truly anchored in Jesus? Remember Jesus said , “I will never leave you nor forsake you”.
To realize the strength of the anchor we need to feel the stress of the storm.
Have you ever noticed that we all try to talk above the noise of a storm? We seem to think if we shout we will be heard over the thunder wind and rain. Maybe the storm is not outside but it is in our head. It happens when we are involved with a tragedy—loss of a loved one or someone close to us, or when it looks like the whole world is about to cave in on us. Our minds become the tempest of “what if” questions. We focus on all the possible bad outcomes. Our fear, worry and trust in God fluctuate as we wait, we pray, we grieve, and we wonder what the Lord will do.
This is all natural and we should be fearful in a storm whether that storm is in our back yard or in our head. In Matthew 8:23-27 we find a story about Jesus and His disciples taking a boat trip when a storm rose and they were tossed on the waves. Picture this, the disciples had Jesus right there in the boat with them yet they were afraid of the storm. The boat was rocking the waves were splashing over the sides yet Jesus was asleep resting. They woke Him and cried do you not care we parish? Jesus used this to show God’s power as He smiled and spoke to the waves to be still. He also showed them just how powerful God is and how much He does care for them.
We all wish Jesus will calm the storms in our lives as He did that night on the boat. But remember He let the storm rage for a time to get the attention of the disciples before He calmed the storm and He does the same for us. When we are anchored in the Lord we can always find peace. We can rest assured Jesus is right there in the boat with us and He will not let it sink or lose us in the storm. He really cares for us and loves us. Do we love Him as much as He loves us? Are we truly anchored in Jesus? Remember Jesus said , “I will never leave you nor forsake you”.
To realize the strength of the anchor we need to feel the stress of the storm.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Dangerous Crossings
Psalm 77:19, “Thy way is in the sea, and thy path in the great waters, and thy footsteps are not known.”
Recently we all saw how flood waters covered much of the South, waters swift and rushing that made travel difficult if not impossible. We are warned not to cross swollen creeks or water covered roads. The bottom could be slippery and the waters depth may not be known. We are told to turn around don’t drown. There are many challenges in life and like the flooded roads we may not see the dangers that lay just beneath the surface. We lose sleep pondering how we can overcome these challenges. Trying to determine how we can negotiate though the danger zone causes us to take chances that we should not take.
In Psalm 77:11we are reminded, “I will remember the works of the LORD: surely I will remember thy wonders of old.” God knows where the pot holes are and what dangers are ahead. Thy way is in the sea, and thy path in the great waters, and thy footsteps are not known.
That is the way it is with God. Although we can’t see Him He surely is there. Unseen He leads His people. God is not afraid of the currents or the storms of life. His courage and strength are infinite. Like a good shepherd he leads His flock through troubled waters to higher ground. He cares for His flock His sheep hear His voice and they follow Him.
It is when we take our eyes off the shepherd that we run into trouble. When we get off course God sends others to guide us. Sometimes it is with wise counsel of a father or mother. Sometimes God uses a friend to show us the way or simply the loving touch of a small child to light our path. Our ways are not His ways but His ways are always sure and strong.
When we have fallen and cannot get up if we will but look up we will find God’s hands reaching down to help us up. All we have to do is reach out and take His hand. When we find the path is covered with swift and rushing waters all we need do is call. Though we may not see His foot prints or understand how He can show us the way we can know He is standing there ready and willing to lift us up. Our Lord is a tough and tender shepherd who leads us through perilous crossings to the other side.
Have you put your hand is His? Or are still trying to go it alone? What causes you to lose sleep at night? Why do you not put your troubles in His hands?
Recently we all saw how flood waters covered much of the South, waters swift and rushing that made travel difficult if not impossible. We are warned not to cross swollen creeks or water covered roads. The bottom could be slippery and the waters depth may not be known. We are told to turn around don’t drown. There are many challenges in life and like the flooded roads we may not see the dangers that lay just beneath the surface. We lose sleep pondering how we can overcome these challenges. Trying to determine how we can negotiate though the danger zone causes us to take chances that we should not take.
In Psalm 77:11we are reminded, “I will remember the works of the LORD: surely I will remember thy wonders of old.” God knows where the pot holes are and what dangers are ahead. Thy way is in the sea, and thy path in the great waters, and thy footsteps are not known.
That is the way it is with God. Although we can’t see Him He surely is there. Unseen He leads His people. God is not afraid of the currents or the storms of life. His courage and strength are infinite. Like a good shepherd he leads His flock through troubled waters to higher ground. He cares for His flock His sheep hear His voice and they follow Him.
It is when we take our eyes off the shepherd that we run into trouble. When we get off course God sends others to guide us. Sometimes it is with wise counsel of a father or mother. Sometimes God uses a friend to show us the way or simply the loving touch of a small child to light our path. Our ways are not His ways but His ways are always sure and strong.
When we have fallen and cannot get up if we will but look up we will find God’s hands reaching down to help us up. All we have to do is reach out and take His hand. When we find the path is covered with swift and rushing waters all we need do is call. Though we may not see His foot prints or understand how He can show us the way we can know He is standing there ready and willing to lift us up. Our Lord is a tough and tender shepherd who leads us through perilous crossings to the other side.
Have you put your hand is His? Or are still trying to go it alone? What causes you to lose sleep at night? Why do you not put your troubles in His hands?
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Looking Ahead Not Behind
Philippians 3:13-14, “Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,
I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Many times we lose sight of the path we are to follow because we spend too much time looking back at the path we have already trod. Crying over mistakes we made and grieving over something we cannot change. The past is but history and moping over errors in judgment and continuing to look back will cause us to not see the future and the great things God has planned for us. If our outlook is backward instead of forward our vision is dimmed and our enthusiasm is dampened. There is an old saying “there is no use crying over split milk”. History is likely to repeat itself if we keep brooding over failures and continue complaining over failures and short comings.
Paul’s encouragement to the Philippians is to forget what happened in the past and look forward to the future. If we confess our sins to God He is faithful and just to forgive us and forget about the mistakes we make. (1 John 1:9) We should also forget what has happened and look forward to the prize of the high calling of God. If God forgets so should we. If God forgives us we should also forgive ourselves. Life is too short to live in the past. We need to make right the things that need correcting, and then we need to move forward with confidence and trust in our heavenly Father. The mistakes of the past are a heavy burden we need not carry. Out future is bright and with our eyes on Christ we must walk with heads up and knowledge the victory is ours. Jesus walked up Calvary’s hill and He never looked back to see who was following. He looked up to heaven and He looked to the future. If we look back we can miss the blessings God has in store for us. Like Paul we must be reaching forth unto those things which are before, pressing toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Many times we lose sight of the path we are to follow because we spend too much time looking back at the path we have already trod. Crying over mistakes we made and grieving over something we cannot change. The past is but history and moping over errors in judgment and continuing to look back will cause us to not see the future and the great things God has planned for us. If our outlook is backward instead of forward our vision is dimmed and our enthusiasm is dampened. There is an old saying “there is no use crying over split milk”. History is likely to repeat itself if we keep brooding over failures and continue complaining over failures and short comings.
Paul’s encouragement to the Philippians is to forget what happened in the past and look forward to the future. If we confess our sins to God He is faithful and just to forgive us and forget about the mistakes we make. (1 John 1:9) We should also forget what has happened and look forward to the prize of the high calling of God. If God forgets so should we. If God forgives us we should also forgive ourselves. Life is too short to live in the past. We need to make right the things that need correcting, and then we need to move forward with confidence and trust in our heavenly Father. The mistakes of the past are a heavy burden we need not carry. Out future is bright and with our eyes on Christ we must walk with heads up and knowledge the victory is ours. Jesus walked up Calvary’s hill and He never looked back to see who was following. He looked up to heaven and He looked to the future. If we look back we can miss the blessings God has in store for us. Like Paul we must be reaching forth unto those things which are before, pressing toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Wait Is An Answer Too
1 Timothy 1:15, “And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.”
Life is filled with questions we do not have answers for. Parents are asked by children—Why? Crisis comes into our lives through the loss of a loved one or sickness strikes or we struggle with a decision and we ask ---Why? There is a country song written by Kris Kristofferson “Why me Lord?” This is a questions often asked when we get into trouble or something comes into our lives we did not expect.
When we are distressed by our inability to answer life’s most vexing questions, we must remember Christ did not come to satisfy our curiosity. Rather, He saw us as fallen and hurting, and he came to lift and to heal.
In Luke 4:14-22 we find Jesus telling exactly what His purpose is. He showed Himself as the promised Messiah. His primary purpose for coming was to deliver us from a helpless spiritual poverty, to release us from the shackles of our guilt and sin. He came to set the captive free and give sight to the blind. Sin causes blindness and enslaves all in an icy grip. He came so that we might live.
For God so love the world that He gave His only begotten son that whosoever believeth in him should not perish but shall have everlasting life. God may not answer our questions as we would like. Sometimes the answer is no, sometimes it is wait. He will give us comfort in the midst of the storm. He will give us guidance if we will but listen. He will give us strength when we are weak. The Lord is my shepherd I shall not want. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Life is filled with questions we do not have answers for. Parents are asked by children—Why? Crisis comes into our lives through the loss of a loved one or sickness strikes or we struggle with a decision and we ask ---Why? There is a country song written by Kris Kristofferson “Why me Lord?” This is a questions often asked when we get into trouble or something comes into our lives we did not expect.
When we are distressed by our inability to answer life’s most vexing questions, we must remember Christ did not come to satisfy our curiosity. Rather, He saw us as fallen and hurting, and he came to lift and to heal.
In Luke 4:14-22 we find Jesus telling exactly what His purpose is. He showed Himself as the promised Messiah. His primary purpose for coming was to deliver us from a helpless spiritual poverty, to release us from the shackles of our guilt and sin. He came to set the captive free and give sight to the blind. Sin causes blindness and enslaves all in an icy grip. He came so that we might live.
For God so love the world that He gave His only begotten son that whosoever believeth in him should not perish but shall have everlasting life. God may not answer our questions as we would like. Sometimes the answer is no, sometimes it is wait. He will give us comfort in the midst of the storm. He will give us guidance if we will but listen. He will give us strength when we are weak. The Lord is my shepherd I shall not want. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Give Me This Mountain
Joshua 14:12
Now therefore give me this mountain, whereof the LORD spake in that day; for thou heardest in that day how the Anakims were there, and that the cities were great and fenced: if so be the LORD will be with me, then I shall be able to drive them out, as the LORD said.
Every day we face challenges that may at first glance seem to be impossible for us to meet. Obstacles we are not sure we can get over or around. If you were 85 years old and facing an enemy that lived in walled cities and was established on a well defended mountain, swarming with enemy combatants would you just give up and walk away? Caleb was in that position. But Caleb also knew God had made a promise to him and he wanted what God had promised Him. So he went to Joshua and made a very bold statement, “give me this mountain.”
Such confidence might at first seem admirable, and yet naïve or unrealistic, epically for an 85 year old man. But Caleb’s courage was based upon the wise realization that “if the Lord is with me, then I will be successful.”
All our fears and excuses will be wiped away if we will follow the example set by this aged man. There may be things in our lives that seem insurmountable or unachievable. We have more excused as to why it will not work than we do that it will. If that is the case then we need to assume the same battle cry as Caleb did, “Lord give me this mountain.”
If we are battling sin in our life then we need to remember we have victory in Jesus--- give me this mountain! Maybe God is leading in uncharted waters let Him be the captain of the soul---give me this mountain! Maybe we are facing a particular grief that threatens to overwhelm us we have a comforter who will give us strength and promised to never leave us---give me this mountain!
Boldly go to God and cry “Lord give me this mountain.”
Now therefore give me this mountain, whereof the LORD spake in that day; for thou heardest in that day how the Anakims were there, and that the cities were great and fenced: if so be the LORD will be with me, then I shall be able to drive them out, as the LORD said.
Every day we face challenges that may at first glance seem to be impossible for us to meet. Obstacles we are not sure we can get over or around. If you were 85 years old and facing an enemy that lived in walled cities and was established on a well defended mountain, swarming with enemy combatants would you just give up and walk away? Caleb was in that position. But Caleb also knew God had made a promise to him and he wanted what God had promised Him. So he went to Joshua and made a very bold statement, “give me this mountain.”
Such confidence might at first seem admirable, and yet naïve or unrealistic, epically for an 85 year old man. But Caleb’s courage was based upon the wise realization that “if the Lord is with me, then I will be successful.”
All our fears and excuses will be wiped away if we will follow the example set by this aged man. There may be things in our lives that seem insurmountable or unachievable. We have more excused as to why it will not work than we do that it will. If that is the case then we need to assume the same battle cry as Caleb did, “Lord give me this mountain.”
If we are battling sin in our life then we need to remember we have victory in Jesus--- give me this mountain! Maybe God is leading in uncharted waters let Him be the captain of the soul---give me this mountain! Maybe we are facing a particular grief that threatens to overwhelm us we have a comforter who will give us strength and promised to never leave us---give me this mountain!
Boldly go to God and cry “Lord give me this mountain.”
Sunday, June 5, 2011
The God of All Comfort
2 Corinthians 1:3-4, “Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.”
When the storm is raging all around us it may seem that there is no comfort. We may even feel God has left us. But it is in these times when He is closest and cares the most. You never know when you will need the Lord’s comfort the most. When tomorrow seems to be totally out of reach don’t reach for tomorrow reach for God’s hand.
As storms tore through the southern states recently many there had to feel as if the world was coming to an end. For some it did for others a new day dawned and as they looked at what was once a home they saw God was standing holding them close.
We all have faced trials and problems in our lives and while we are in the midst is the time we should know God is sheltering us and caring for us. Sure it is hard to feel comforted or protected as all around you is crumbling and your world is crashing down. The Father of mercies and the God of all comfort; who comforteth us in all our tribulation is standing at our side.
The only thing more freighting than the storm would be not knowing the Father of all comfort. Many do not know God and His grace and theirs is a lonely and scary world. For those who are in the Hands of Almighty God what a comfort to know He is in control even as all appears lost. I am reminded of a versa of a hymn written by Thomas A. Dorsey shortly after he lost his family. “Precious Lord, take my hand, Lead me on, and let me stand; I am tired, I am weak, I am worn, through the storm, through the night, Lead me to the light; Take my hand, precious Lord, lead me home.”
The Lord of all comfort will shield us as the storm rages and will lead us out of the storm and if we will but take His hand. You may be facing a problem too big to face alone or a grief to great to bear. Put your hand in the Lord’s. Take comfort in Him and lean on His everlasting arms and let Him lead you home.
When the storm is raging all around us it may seem that there is no comfort. We may even feel God has left us. But it is in these times when He is closest and cares the most. You never know when you will need the Lord’s comfort the most. When tomorrow seems to be totally out of reach don’t reach for tomorrow reach for God’s hand.
As storms tore through the southern states recently many there had to feel as if the world was coming to an end. For some it did for others a new day dawned and as they looked at what was once a home they saw God was standing holding them close.
We all have faced trials and problems in our lives and while we are in the midst is the time we should know God is sheltering us and caring for us. Sure it is hard to feel comforted or protected as all around you is crumbling and your world is crashing down. The Father of mercies and the God of all comfort; who comforteth us in all our tribulation is standing at our side.
The only thing more freighting than the storm would be not knowing the Father of all comfort. Many do not know God and His grace and theirs is a lonely and scary world. For those who are in the Hands of Almighty God what a comfort to know He is in control even as all appears lost. I am reminded of a versa of a hymn written by Thomas A. Dorsey shortly after he lost his family. “Precious Lord, take my hand, Lead me on, and let me stand; I am tired, I am weak, I am worn, through the storm, through the night, Lead me to the light; Take my hand, precious Lord, lead me home.”
The Lord of all comfort will shield us as the storm rages and will lead us out of the storm and if we will but take His hand. You may be facing a problem too big to face alone or a grief to great to bear. Put your hand in the Lord’s. Take comfort in Him and lean on His everlasting arms and let Him lead you home.
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Walk On the Wild Side
Romans 6:11-13, Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.
Have you ever thought how much fun it would be to wander around in a wilderness area? A place wild and free; a place where you can get up close and personal with nature and all that live there. It is exciting to travel to a wilderness area but if done alone it can be dangerous.
Every day we are tempted to travel into an area controlled by sin and lust. Every journey into sin takes its toll. When we travel there we sacrifice our closeness with God, forfeit His blessings and we lose our influence with others that comes from purity of mind and body. In 1 Timothy 4:12 we are told, “Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.”
We all have a wild side where we wander now and again. A wilderness area filled with sin lust and absence from God. These wild areas in us may never be tamed and secured for us to wander in safely. As with natural wilderness areas there needs to be perimeters that restrict access. Perimeters that keep us from wandering into areas we do not need to go.
We need to set perimeters that have posted signs, “Danger Do Not Enter”. One sign we should post is one that tells us to resist the temptation to yield to the lust of the flesh. Another one should read, “You will be held accountable.” Remember temptation only gets better the longer you look at it.
Sin is a wilderness area we need not wander into yet it has a lure the draws us like a magnet. It is a place where once we enter in we lose sight of God. When we wander away from God the places we go are cold and lifeless. The things we do there are not pleasing in His sight. Can we find our way out, most certainly? Just like a person who has been lost in the wilderness and is found by searchers we are wrapped in a warm blanket, cradled in the arms of a loving God and given life saving nourishment. Yes we may be a bit dirty and yes we may be a lot ashamed but God still cares and loves us just as we are.
Are there wilderness areas you wander into once in a while? What kind of warnings signs have you posted to warn of the danger ahead? Sin is a game devised by the devil to trap all who wander there. The end is trouble and death. It is a very dangerous wilderness area.
Have you ever thought how much fun it would be to wander around in a wilderness area? A place wild and free; a place where you can get up close and personal with nature and all that live there. It is exciting to travel to a wilderness area but if done alone it can be dangerous.
Every day we are tempted to travel into an area controlled by sin and lust. Every journey into sin takes its toll. When we travel there we sacrifice our closeness with God, forfeit His blessings and we lose our influence with others that comes from purity of mind and body. In 1 Timothy 4:12 we are told, “Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.”
We all have a wild side where we wander now and again. A wilderness area filled with sin lust and absence from God. These wild areas in us may never be tamed and secured for us to wander in safely. As with natural wilderness areas there needs to be perimeters that restrict access. Perimeters that keep us from wandering into areas we do not need to go.
We need to set perimeters that have posted signs, “Danger Do Not Enter”. One sign we should post is one that tells us to resist the temptation to yield to the lust of the flesh. Another one should read, “You will be held accountable.” Remember temptation only gets better the longer you look at it.
Sin is a wilderness area we need not wander into yet it has a lure the draws us like a magnet. It is a place where once we enter in we lose sight of God. When we wander away from God the places we go are cold and lifeless. The things we do there are not pleasing in His sight. Can we find our way out, most certainly? Just like a person who has been lost in the wilderness and is found by searchers we are wrapped in a warm blanket, cradled in the arms of a loving God and given life saving nourishment. Yes we may be a bit dirty and yes we may be a lot ashamed but God still cares and loves us just as we are.
Are there wilderness areas you wander into once in a while? What kind of warnings signs have you posted to warn of the danger ahead? Sin is a game devised by the devil to trap all who wander there. The end is trouble and death. It is a very dangerous wilderness area.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Christ Like Response
Acts 7:58-60
And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul. And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep.
Have you ever been wronged? Have you ever been taken advantage of? Misunderstood? Humiliated? Falsely Accused? Punished? We all have and most likely our first response was to lash out at the accuser. Start thinking how unfair unjust or unreasonable the accusation. We most probably have thoughts of anger and indignation. This is epically true if what we are being accused of or attacked for are in God’s service and we are doing what God has called us to do. Why are we being punished for doing God’s work? How could God let this happen? It doesn’t seem fair. The key for all of us is in Stephen's example under pressure and extreme circumstances when he prayed, "Lord do not hold this sin against them."
Wow! How many of us would have thought to make such a statement? A response just like Jesus made on the cross. “Father forgive them for they know not what they do.” If we had been in Stephen’s shoes what would our response have been?
Jesus gives us a really great guide when we come under persecution and are falsely accused. “But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you and persecute you.”
So then do we have a worldly response or a Jesus response? Do we pray for our enemies or do we try to get even? Remember Stephen when you are wronged, “Lord do not hold this sin against them.” How could God let this happen? It didn't seem fair. The key for all of us is in Stephen's example under pressure and extreme circumstances when he prayed, "Lord do not hold this sin against them."
And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul. And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep.
Have you ever been wronged? Have you ever been taken advantage of? Misunderstood? Humiliated? Falsely Accused? Punished? We all have and most likely our first response was to lash out at the accuser. Start thinking how unfair unjust or unreasonable the accusation. We most probably have thoughts of anger and indignation. This is epically true if what we are being accused of or attacked for are in God’s service and we are doing what God has called us to do. Why are we being punished for doing God’s work? How could God let this happen? It doesn’t seem fair. The key for all of us is in Stephen's example under pressure and extreme circumstances when he prayed, "Lord do not hold this sin against them."
Wow! How many of us would have thought to make such a statement? A response just like Jesus made on the cross. “Father forgive them for they know not what they do.” If we had been in Stephen’s shoes what would our response have been?
Jesus gives us a really great guide when we come under persecution and are falsely accused. “But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you and persecute you.”
So then do we have a worldly response or a Jesus response? Do we pray for our enemies or do we try to get even? Remember Stephen when you are wronged, “Lord do not hold this sin against them.” How could God let this happen? It didn't seem fair. The key for all of us is in Stephen's example under pressure and extreme circumstances when he prayed, "Lord do not hold this sin against them."
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Hearing What We Don't Want to Hear
Acts 7:55-58
But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God.Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord, And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul.
Have you seen someone put their fingers in their ears and say, "nah, nah, nah, nah, nah?" Doing this they showed they did not what to hear what was being said to them. Try it sometime. You'll find you cannot hear what the other person is saying. In our passage today, that is what the Jewish leaders are doing -- covering their ears and yelling at the top of their voices. They didn't want to hear anymore of what Stephen had to say.
Have you ever felt that way before? Have you ever felt you've had enough of Scripture, church or preaching? Not long ago I was talking with a young man, who told me he just didn't like going to church anymore. He felt all that was preached about was giving -- the church just wanted his money. I invited him to church shortly after we had this conversation, and following the service he said to me fully vindicated, "See what I mean!" You see he heard what he needed to hear and nothing else. Notice I said, "What he needed to hear." No one else heard a sermon on giving; only he did because that is what he needed to hear. Giving was his heart issue -- generosity -- not just to the church but to everyone, including his wife and children. Have you ever been in a service and you were sure the preacher had been reading your mail? We all have been there. God will send a message to the ear of the one most needful. I know when God gives a message to His preachers all who hear the message will hear something different. In other words they will hear only what they want or need to hear.
Messages from God don’t always come from the pulpit. As we walk through life God will direct us by having someone speak to us. It may be from the wisdom of age or it may be the voice of a child. Either way it is God’s message that pricks our heart. You can put your fingers in your ears hoping the voice will not be heard but God is speaking to the heart not the head. Some call this still small voice conscience or conviction, the voice of reason or a gut feeling. No matter what you call it you must choose how you are going to receive that voice. We accept it reject it or try to ignore it. Before I met the Lord I started feeling something was missing in my life and did not know what or where to look. I know now that was God talking to my heart through the Holy Spirit. Telling me I needed Jesus.
So what should we do when we read Scripture or hear a message that makes us want to cover our ears and yell at the top of our voice to block it out? We have to first be careful to not follow the normal human reaction to information we don't want to hear -- and that is illustrated in our passage today -- "they dragged him out of the city and began to stone him." Rather than stoning, a modern day example might be in the young man’s case: stop going to church, or change churches. In other words, if you remove the person (the pastor/Stephen) and the words (sermon/Scripture), then the issue is removed. All I can say you can run but you can’t hide. Is God calling you? Is He telling you there are things you need to change or be aware of? Maybe it is a purpose you need to fill, the one He designed you to do. The next time you set in a pew and you feel like you are the only one there and the preacher is talking straight to you take the fingers out of your ears and listen. It just might be God calling and you sure don’t want to miss that call.
But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God,And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God.Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord, And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul.
Have you seen someone put their fingers in their ears and say, "nah, nah, nah, nah, nah?" Doing this they showed they did not what to hear what was being said to them. Try it sometime. You'll find you cannot hear what the other person is saying. In our passage today, that is what the Jewish leaders are doing -- covering their ears and yelling at the top of their voices. They didn't want to hear anymore of what Stephen had to say.
Have you ever felt that way before? Have you ever felt you've had enough of Scripture, church or preaching? Not long ago I was talking with a young man, who told me he just didn't like going to church anymore. He felt all that was preached about was giving -- the church just wanted his money. I invited him to church shortly after we had this conversation, and following the service he said to me fully vindicated, "See what I mean!" You see he heard what he needed to hear and nothing else. Notice I said, "What he needed to hear." No one else heard a sermon on giving; only he did because that is what he needed to hear. Giving was his heart issue -- generosity -- not just to the church but to everyone, including his wife and children. Have you ever been in a service and you were sure the preacher had been reading your mail? We all have been there. God will send a message to the ear of the one most needful. I know when God gives a message to His preachers all who hear the message will hear something different. In other words they will hear only what they want or need to hear.
Messages from God don’t always come from the pulpit. As we walk through life God will direct us by having someone speak to us. It may be from the wisdom of age or it may be the voice of a child. Either way it is God’s message that pricks our heart. You can put your fingers in your ears hoping the voice will not be heard but God is speaking to the heart not the head. Some call this still small voice conscience or conviction, the voice of reason or a gut feeling. No matter what you call it you must choose how you are going to receive that voice. We accept it reject it or try to ignore it. Before I met the Lord I started feeling something was missing in my life and did not know what or where to look. I know now that was God talking to my heart through the Holy Spirit. Telling me I needed Jesus.
So what should we do when we read Scripture or hear a message that makes us want to cover our ears and yell at the top of our voice to block it out? We have to first be careful to not follow the normal human reaction to information we don't want to hear -- and that is illustrated in our passage today -- "they dragged him out of the city and began to stone him." Rather than stoning, a modern day example might be in the young man’s case: stop going to church, or change churches. In other words, if you remove the person (the pastor/Stephen) and the words (sermon/Scripture), then the issue is removed. All I can say you can run but you can’t hide. Is God calling you? Is He telling you there are things you need to change or be aware of? Maybe it is a purpose you need to fill, the one He designed you to do. The next time you set in a pew and you feel like you are the only one there and the preacher is talking straight to you take the fingers out of your ears and listen. It just might be God calling and you sure don’t want to miss that call.
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