Your Words:
When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go.
Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and itself set on fire by hell.
All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and creatures of the sea are being tamed and have been tamed by man,but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness.
Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? My brothers, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.
Scriptures:
James 3:3-12
Defining Moments:
You didn't mean to say it. It just slipped out. Everybody knows how it feels when gossip engine is in full swing, when the camaraderie of shared complaints and put downs makes you say things you promised yourself not to-little tidbits you'd been told in confidence, jokes and jabs you toss out for public enjoyment though you'd never speak them right to someone's face. We all understand.
But knowing that we all understand doesn't make it right. And working harder to bite your lip next time only provides temporary relief. Jesus said that " out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks" ( Matthew 12:34)- that if we want our words ( or our silence) to be pure and pleasing, we must change our attitudes to match.
So....want to withstand the urge to sling the next insult? Then try loving the person who irritates you. Want to never make another idle remark at another person's expense? Then pray for God to help you want the best for your grouchy neighbor. Kind words come from clean hearts.
Next Up:
Being new to something like the Christian life can make you feel outclassed by those who do it well. But we're not racing eachother. We're racing ourselves.
Quote:
" Let your words be few, lest you say with your tongue what you will afterward repent with your heart." -George MacDonald
Monday, February 19, 2018
Good Habits
So let us go on to grow-up teaching. Let us not go back over the beginning lessons we learned about Christ. ( Hebrews 6:1)
I like the story of the little boy who fell out of bed. When his Mom asked him what happened, he answered, " I don't know. I guess I stayed too close to where I got in."
Easy to do the same with our faith. It's tempting just to stay where we got in and never move.
Pick a time in the not-too-distant past. A year or two ago. Now ask yourself a few questions. How does your prayer life today compare with then? How about your giving? Have both the amount and the joy increased? What about your church loyalty? Can you tell you've grown? And Bible study? Are you learning to learn?....
Don't make the mistake of the little boy. Don't stay too close to where you got in. It's risky resting on the edge.
I like the story of the little boy who fell out of bed. When his Mom asked him what happened, he answered, " I don't know. I guess I stayed too close to where I got in."
Easy to do the same with our faith. It's tempting just to stay where we got in and never move.
Pick a time in the not-too-distant past. A year or two ago. Now ask yourself a few questions. How does your prayer life today compare with then? How about your giving? Have both the amount and the joy increased? What about your church loyalty? Can you tell you've grown? And Bible study? Are you learning to learn?....
Don't make the mistake of the little boy. Don't stay too close to where you got in. It's risky resting on the edge.
YOU ARE FEELING WEIGHED DOWN
You Are Feeling Weighed Down by a plethora of problems, both big and small. They seem to require more and more of your attention, but you must not give in to those demands. When the difficulties in your life feel as if they're closing in on you, break free by spending quality time with Me. You need to remember who I am in all My Power and Glory. Your problems will pale when you view them in the Light of My Presence. You can learn to be joyful in Me, your Savior, even in the midst of adverse circumstances. Rely on Me, your Strength; I make your feet like the feet of a deer, enabling you to go on the heights.
Exodus 3:14; Habakkuk 3:17-19
Exodus 3:14; Habakkuk 3:17-19
Not Eough?
On the way home from church, my daughter sat in the backseat enjoying Goldfish crackers as my other children implored her to share. Trying to redirect the conversation, I asked the hoarder of snacks, " What did you do in class today?" She said they made a basket of bread and fish because a child gave Jesus five loaves and two fish that Jesus used to feed more than 5,000 people.
" That was very kind of the little boy to share. DO you think maybe God is asking you to share your fish" I asked. " No, Momma," she replied.
I tried to encourage her not to keep all the crackers to herself. She was unconvinced. " There is not enough for everyone!"
Sharing is hard. It is easier to hold onto what we see in front of us. Perhaps we do the calculation and reason there is simply not enough for everyone. And the assumption is that if I gave, I will be left wanting.
Paul reminds us that all we have comes from God, who wants to enrich us " in every way so that {we} can be generous." The math of heaven isn't a calculation of scarcity but of abundance. We can share joyfully because God promises to care for us even as we are generous to others.
Father, You take good care of me. Help me to think of others today and to share Your goodness with them.
When we believe that God is good, we can learn to open our hands to others.
" That was very kind of the little boy to share. DO you think maybe God is asking you to share your fish" I asked. " No, Momma," she replied.
I tried to encourage her not to keep all the crackers to herself. She was unconvinced. " There is not enough for everyone!"
Sharing is hard. It is easier to hold onto what we see in front of us. Perhaps we do the calculation and reason there is simply not enough for everyone. And the assumption is that if I gave, I will be left wanting.
Paul reminds us that all we have comes from God, who wants to enrich us " in every way so that {we} can be generous." The math of heaven isn't a calculation of scarcity but of abundance. We can share joyfully because God promises to care for us even as we are generous to others.
Father, You take good care of me. Help me to think of others today and to share Your goodness with them.
When we believe that God is good, we can learn to open our hands to others.
Thursday, February 15, 2018
Critic's Corner
Other people's perceptions:
Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. " Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened."
But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander....
If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.
If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or theif or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?....
So then, those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.
Scripture:
1 Peter 3:13-16; 4:14-17, 19
Defining Moments:
May as well be on the lookout for a couple of thieves who like to prey on new Christians who are serious about being Christlike.
One is the old friend who liked you better the way you were, back when you were a lot more open to having a good time and going to church didn't interfere with every weekend.
The other one is the Christian who's seen your kind come along before and liked you better when you were still a prayer request. Now you're a ball of fire who's just crazy enough to take what you read in the Bible at face value, who thinks there's nothing God can't do through people who pray and churches who love each other. Your enthusiasm threatens them. They're supposed to be the ones helping you.
So if you haven't already, you're sure to start feeling the heat from those who want you wither more like the world or more like the status quo. Just keep believing that what the Bible says is true, and keep loving them the way you'd want them to love you.
Next Up:
One of the biggest enemies in your fight for Christian victory is a foe so small, you could easily overlook it. But it's so close to your heart that it's hard to give up.
Quote:
" Conformity is a jooy thief, but fixing our eyes on Jesus is a joyful, life-giving exercise." -Ed Young
Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. " Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened."
But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander....
If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.
If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or theif or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?....
So then, those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.
Scripture:
1 Peter 3:13-16; 4:14-17, 19
Defining Moments:
May as well be on the lookout for a couple of thieves who like to prey on new Christians who are serious about being Christlike.
One is the old friend who liked you better the way you were, back when you were a lot more open to having a good time and going to church didn't interfere with every weekend.
The other one is the Christian who's seen your kind come along before and liked you better when you were still a prayer request. Now you're a ball of fire who's just crazy enough to take what you read in the Bible at face value, who thinks there's nothing God can't do through people who pray and churches who love each other. Your enthusiasm threatens them. They're supposed to be the ones helping you.
So if you haven't already, you're sure to start feeling the heat from those who want you wither more like the world or more like the status quo. Just keep believing that what the Bible says is true, and keep loving them the way you'd want them to love you.
Next Up:
One of the biggest enemies in your fight for Christian victory is a foe so small, you could easily overlook it. But it's so close to your heart that it's hard to give up.
Quote:
" Conformity is a jooy thief, but fixing our eyes on Jesus is a joyful, life-giving exercise." -Ed Young
The Heart Of Jesus
The Son does whatever the Father does. ( John 5:19)
The crowning attribute of Christ was this: his heart was spiritual. His thoughts reflected his intimate relationship with the Father. " I am in the Father and the Father is in me," he stated ( John 14:11).....
Jesus took his instructions from God. It was his habit to go to worship ( Luke 4:16). It was his practice to memorize Scripture ( Luke 4:4). Luke says Jesus " often slipped away to be alone so he could pray" ( Luke 5:16). His times of prayer guided him. He once returned from prayer and announced it was time to move to another city ( Mark 1:38). Another time of prayer resulted in the selection of the disciples ( Luke 6:12-13). Jesus was led by an unseen hand....
The heart of Jesus was spiritual.
The crowning attribute of Christ was this: his heart was spiritual. His thoughts reflected his intimate relationship with the Father. " I am in the Father and the Father is in me," he stated ( John 14:11).....
Jesus took his instructions from God. It was his habit to go to worship ( Luke 4:16). It was his practice to memorize Scripture ( Luke 4:4). Luke says Jesus " often slipped away to be alone so he could pray" ( Luke 5:16). His times of prayer guided him. He once returned from prayer and announced it was time to move to another city ( Mark 1:38). Another time of prayer resulted in the selection of the disciples ( Luke 6:12-13). Jesus was led by an unseen hand....
The heart of Jesus was spiritual.
Come To Me
Come To ME with all your weaknesses: physical, emotional, and spiritual. Rest in the comfort of My Presence, remembering that nothing is impossible with Me.
Pry your mind away from your problems so you can focus your attention on Me. Recall that I am able to do immeasurably more than all you ask or imagine. Instead of trying to direct Me to do this and that, seek to attune yourself to what I am already doing.
When anxiety attempts to wedge its way into your thoughts, remind yourself that I am your Shepherd. The bottom line is that I am taking care of you; therefore, you needn't be afraid of anything. Rather than trying to maintain control over your life, abandon yourself to My will. Though this may feel frightening-even dangerous-the safest place to be is in My will.
Luke 1:37; Ephesians 3:20-21; Psalm 23:1-4
Pry your mind away from your problems so you can focus your attention on Me. Recall that I am able to do immeasurably more than all you ask or imagine. Instead of trying to direct Me to do this and that, seek to attune yourself to what I am already doing.
When anxiety attempts to wedge its way into your thoughts, remind yourself that I am your Shepherd. The bottom line is that I am taking care of you; therefore, you needn't be afraid of anything. Rather than trying to maintain control over your life, abandon yourself to My will. Though this may feel frightening-even dangerous-the safest place to be is in My will.
Luke 1:37; Ephesians 3:20-21; Psalm 23:1-4
Following Where He Leads
AS a child, I looked forward to our church's Sunday evening services. They were exciting. Sunday night often meant we got to hear from missionaries and other guest speakers. Their messages inspired me because of their willingness to leave family and friends-and at times, homes, possessions, and careers-to go off to strange, unfamiliar, and sometimes dangerous places to serve God.
Like those missionaries, Elijah left many things behind to follow God. Before God called him into service through Elijah, we don't know much about Elisha-except that he was a farmer. When the prophet Elijah met him in a field where he was plowing, he threw his cloak over Elisha's shoulders ( the symbol of his role as prophet) and called him to follow. With only a request to kiss his mother and father goodbye, Elisha immediately sacraficed his oxen, burned his lowing equipment, said good-bye to his parents-and followed Elijah.
Though not many of us are called to leave family and friends behind to serve God as fulltime missionaries, God wants all of us to follow Him and to " live as a believer in what ever situation the Lord has assigned to (us), just as God has called (us)." As I've often experienced, serving God can be thrilling and challenging no matter where we are even if we never leave home.
Dear Lord, equip us to be Your missionaries wherever You have placed us-near or far, at home or abroad.
God will show us how to serve Him wherever we are.
Like those missionaries, Elijah left many things behind to follow God. Before God called him into service through Elijah, we don't know much about Elisha-except that he was a farmer. When the prophet Elijah met him in a field where he was plowing, he threw his cloak over Elisha's shoulders ( the symbol of his role as prophet) and called him to follow. With only a request to kiss his mother and father goodbye, Elisha immediately sacraficed his oxen, burned his lowing equipment, said good-bye to his parents-and followed Elijah.
Though not many of us are called to leave family and friends behind to serve God as fulltime missionaries, God wants all of us to follow Him and to " live as a believer in what ever situation the Lord has assigned to (us), just as God has called (us)." As I've often experienced, serving God can be thrilling and challenging no matter where we are even if we never leave home.
Dear Lord, equip us to be Your missionaries wherever You have placed us-near or far, at home or abroad.
God will show us how to serve Him wherever we are.
Monday, February 12, 2018
It's All Behind You
Overcoming Past Guilt:
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in CHrist Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death.
For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in sinful man, in order that the righteous requirements of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit....
For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry " Abba, Father...."
What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for all of us-how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?
Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies.
Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died-more than that, who was raised to lif-is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.
Scriptures:
Romans 8:1-4,15,31-34
Defining Moments:
If you only knew how clean your record was. If you could only believe how much the Father loves you.
If you could finally understand that when you gave your heart to Jesus, you " clothed yourself with Christ", so that when God looks at you now, He doesn't see that junk you used to wear, but the pure, shining garments of Christ's everlasting righteousness.
He sees you for who you really are. A full-fledged child of the loving God. Oh, you've still got some wrinkles to iron out. And as you stay open to the Spirit's conviction through the Bible, through sermons, through the words of a true friend, you'll be drawn to new repentance.
You'll want to be like Christ no matter what it costs. But guilt gives itself away by beating you down, accusing you of hypocrisy when God says you're worthy of heaven. Turn the guilt of your past into a testimony of God's power. And walk away with your head in the clouds.
Next Up:
When your faith is young and exhuberance spills over easily into life, some people won't be crazy about who you're becoming. You'd be crazy to listen to them.
Quote:
" Through true guilt, the Holy Spirit seeks to draw us closer to God. Through false, incriminating guilt, Satan seeks to separate us from God." -Jim Henry
Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in CHrist Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death.
For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in sinful man, in order that the righteous requirements of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit....
For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry " Abba, Father...."
What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for all of us-how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?
Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies.
Who is he that condemns? Christ Jesus, who died-more than that, who was raised to lif-is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.
Scriptures:
Romans 8:1-4,15,31-34
Defining Moments:
If you only knew how clean your record was. If you could only believe how much the Father loves you.
If you could finally understand that when you gave your heart to Jesus, you " clothed yourself with Christ", so that when God looks at you now, He doesn't see that junk you used to wear, but the pure, shining garments of Christ's everlasting righteousness.
He sees you for who you really are. A full-fledged child of the loving God. Oh, you've still got some wrinkles to iron out. And as you stay open to the Spirit's conviction through the Bible, through sermons, through the words of a true friend, you'll be drawn to new repentance.
You'll want to be like Christ no matter what it costs. But guilt gives itself away by beating you down, accusing you of hypocrisy when God says you're worthy of heaven. Turn the guilt of your past into a testimony of God's power. And walk away with your head in the clouds.
Next Up:
When your faith is young and exhuberance spills over easily into life, some people won't be crazy about who you're becoming. You'd be crazy to listen to them.
Quote:
" Through true guilt, the Holy Spirit seeks to draw us closer to God. Through false, incriminating guilt, Satan seeks to separate us from God." -Jim Henry
See What God Has Done!
The heavens tell the glory of God. ( Psalm 19:1)
How vital that we pray, armed with the knowledge that God is in heaven. Pray with any lesser conviction and your prayers are timid, shallow, and hollow. But spend some time walking in the workshop of the heavens, seeing what God has done, and watch how your prayers are energized.....
Behold the sun! Every square yard of the sun is constantly emitting 130,000 horse power, or the equivalent of 450 eight-cylinder automobile engines. And yet our sun, as powerful as it is, is but one minor star in the 100 billion orbs which make up our Milky Way Galax. Hold a dime in your fingers and extend it arm's length toward the sky, allowing it to eclipse your vision, and you will block out fifteen million stars from your view....By showing us the heavens, Jesus is showing us his Father's workshop....He taps us on the shoulder and says, " Your Father can handle that for you."
How vital that we pray, armed with the knowledge that God is in heaven. Pray with any lesser conviction and your prayers are timid, shallow, and hollow. But spend some time walking in the workshop of the heavens, seeing what God has done, and watch how your prayers are energized.....
Behold the sun! Every square yard of the sun is constantly emitting 130,000 horse power, or the equivalent of 450 eight-cylinder automobile engines. And yet our sun, as powerful as it is, is but one minor star in the 100 billion orbs which make up our Milky Way Galax. Hold a dime in your fingers and extend it arm's length toward the sky, allowing it to eclipse your vision, and you will block out fifteen million stars from your view....By showing us the heavens, Jesus is showing us his Father's workshop....He taps us on the shoulder and says, " Your Father can handle that for you."
I AM EVER SO NEAR YOU
I am ever so near you, hovering over your shoulder, reading every thought. People think that thoughts are fleeting and worthless, but yours are precious to Me. I smile when you think lovingly of Me. My Spirit, who lives within you, helps you to think My thoughts. As your thinking goes, so goes your entire being.
Let Me be your positive Focus. When you look to Me, knowing Me as God with you, you experience Joy. This is according to My ancient design, when I first crafted man. Modern man seeks his positive focus elsewhere: in sports, sensations, acquiring new possessions. Advertising capitalizes on the longing of people for a positive focus in their lives. I planted that longing in human souls, knowing that only I could fully satisfy it. Delight yourself in Me; let Me become the Desire of your heart.
Matthew 1:23; Psalm 37:4
Let Me be your positive Focus. When you look to Me, knowing Me as God with you, you experience Joy. This is according to My ancient design, when I first crafted man. Modern man seeks his positive focus elsewhere: in sports, sensations, acquiring new possessions. Advertising capitalizes on the longing of people for a positive focus in their lives. I planted that longing in human souls, knowing that only I could fully satisfy it. Delight yourself in Me; let Me become the Desire of your heart.
Matthew 1:23; Psalm 37:4
Trust Me
After graduation from college, I had a low-paying job. Money was tight, and sometimes I didn't even have enough money for my next meal. I learned to trust God for my daily provision.
It reminded me of the prophet Elijah's experience. During his prophetic ministry, he learned to trust God to meet his daily needs. Shortly after Elijah pronounced God's judgment of a drought in Israel, God sent him to a deserted place, Kerith Ravine, where He used the ravens to bring Elijah his daily meals and refresh him with water from the brook.
But a drought occurred. The brook shrank to a tiny stream, and slowly became a mere trickle. It was only when the brook had dried up that God said: " Go at once to Zarephath....I have directed a widow there to supply you with food." Zarephath was in Phoenicia, whose inhabitants were enemies of the Israelites. Would anyone offer Elijah shelter? And would a poor widow have food to share?
Most of us would rather God provided in abundance long before our resources were depleted rather than just enough for each day. But our loving Father whispers, Trust Me. Just as He used ravens and a widow to provide for Elijah, nothing is impossible for Him. We can count on His love and power to meet our daily needs.
Faithful Father, we thank You for knowing exactly what we need before we even ask. Help us to trust You for our daily needs.
God supplies all our needs-one day at a time.
It reminded me of the prophet Elijah's experience. During his prophetic ministry, he learned to trust God to meet his daily needs. Shortly after Elijah pronounced God's judgment of a drought in Israel, God sent him to a deserted place, Kerith Ravine, where He used the ravens to bring Elijah his daily meals and refresh him with water from the brook.
But a drought occurred. The brook shrank to a tiny stream, and slowly became a mere trickle. It was only when the brook had dried up that God said: " Go at once to Zarephath....I have directed a widow there to supply you with food." Zarephath was in Phoenicia, whose inhabitants were enemies of the Israelites. Would anyone offer Elijah shelter? And would a poor widow have food to share?
Most of us would rather God provided in abundance long before our resources were depleted rather than just enough for each day. But our loving Father whispers, Trust Me. Just as He used ravens and a widow to provide for Elijah, nothing is impossible for Him. We can count on His love and power to meet our daily needs.
Faithful Father, we thank You for knowing exactly what we need before we even ask. Help us to trust You for our daily needs.
God supplies all our needs-one day at a time.
Tuesday, February 6, 2018
Sucker Punches
Temptation:
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything....
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those love him.
When tempted, no one should say, " God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives to death.
Don't be deceived, my dear brothers....
So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
Scripture:
James 1:2-4, 12-16;
1 Corinthians 10:12-13
Defining Moments:
Satan didn't sleep through your salvation experience. Your sudden departure from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of light sent off warning flares in his security division. He set a strategic plan in motion to make sure your faith gets lost on its way to your lifestyle.
So never underestimate the depths of his deceit. He knows a lot about you, for sure. But we know a few things about him.
For one, we know that God has limited the reach of Satan's temptations. The devil may hold the night stick, but God holds the leash. And God can even turn those schemes to your advantage, using them to toughen muscles in your character and open your eyes to place where you're trusting self instead of trusting God.
Remember, too, that temptation isn't sin. It just feels like it. And nowhere in the whole process are you forced to comply--even if you're not quick enough to douse the first flicker of Satan's finesse.
He can quicken your own desire. But he can't make you do anything. Don't believe a word he says.
Next Up:
BUt no matter how hard you try, even though you know God's forgiven you, you still carry the guilt of things you've done in the past. Where does that go to die?
Quote:
" The devil knows that if he can get our minds to dwell on certain sins, then it will be just a matter of time before those sins are acted out." -Greg Laurrie
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything....
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those love him.
When tempted, no one should say, " God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives to death.
Don't be deceived, my dear brothers....
So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
Scripture:
James 1:2-4, 12-16;
1 Corinthians 10:12-13
Defining Moments:
Satan didn't sleep through your salvation experience. Your sudden departure from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of light sent off warning flares in his security division. He set a strategic plan in motion to make sure your faith gets lost on its way to your lifestyle.
So never underestimate the depths of his deceit. He knows a lot about you, for sure. But we know a few things about him.
For one, we know that God has limited the reach of Satan's temptations. The devil may hold the night stick, but God holds the leash. And God can even turn those schemes to your advantage, using them to toughen muscles in your character and open your eyes to place where you're trusting self instead of trusting God.
Remember, too, that temptation isn't sin. It just feels like it. And nowhere in the whole process are you forced to comply--even if you're not quick enough to douse the first flicker of Satan's finesse.
He can quicken your own desire. But he can't make you do anything. Don't believe a word he says.
Next Up:
BUt no matter how hard you try, even though you know God's forgiven you, you still carry the guilt of things you've done in the past. Where does that go to die?
Quote:
" The devil knows that if he can get our minds to dwell on certain sins, then it will be just a matter of time before those sins are acted out." -Greg Laurrie
God Always Gives Grace
God can do all things. ( Mark 10:27)
Our questions betray our lack of understanding:
How can God be everywhere at one time? ( Who says God is bound by a body?)
How can God hear all the prayers which come to him? ( Perhaps his ears are different from yours.)
How can God be the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit? ( Could it be that heaven has a different set of physics than earth?)
If people down here won't forgive me, how much more am I guilty before a holy God? ( Oh, just the opposite. God is always able to give grace when we humans can't-he invented it.)
Our questions betray our lack of understanding:
How can God be everywhere at one time? ( Who says God is bound by a body?)
How can God hear all the prayers which come to him? ( Perhaps his ears are different from yours.)
How can God be the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit? ( Could it be that heaven has a different set of physics than earth?)
If people down here won't forgive me, how much more am I guilty before a holy God? ( Oh, just the opposite. God is always able to give grace when we humans can't-he invented it.)
Come To Me And Rest
Come To Me And Rest. I am all around you, to bless and restore. Breathe Me in with each breath. The way just ahead of you is very steep. Slow down and cling tightly to My hand. I am teaching you a difficult lesson, learned only by hardship.
Lift up empty hands of faith to receive My prescious Presence. Light, Life, Joy, and Peace flow freely through this gift. When your focus turns away from Me, you grasp for other things. You drop the glowing gift of My Presence as you reach for lifeless ashes. Return to Me; regain My Presence.
Matthew 11:28-29; 1 Timothy 2:8
Lift up empty hands of faith to receive My prescious Presence. Light, Life, Joy, and Peace flow freely through this gift. When your focus turns away from Me, you grasp for other things. You drop the glowing gift of My Presence as you reach for lifeless ashes. Return to Me; regain My Presence.
Matthew 11:28-29; 1 Timothy 2:8
Praising Through Problems
" It's cancer," I wanted to be strong when Mom said those words to me. But I burst into tears. You never want to hear those words even one time. But this was Mom's third bout with cancer. After a routine mammogram and biopsy, Mom learned that she had a malignant tumor under her arm. Though Mom was the one with bad news, she had to comfort me. Her response was eye-opening for me: " I know God is always good to me. He's always faithful." Even as she faced a difficult surgery, followed up by radiation treatments, Mom was assured of God's presence and faithfulness.
How like Job. Job lost his children, his wealth, and his health. But after hearing the news, Job 1:20 tells us " he fell to the ground in worship." When advised to curse God, he said, " Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?" What a radical initial response. Though Job later complained, ultimately he accepted that God had never changed. Job knew that God was still with him and that He still cared.
For most of us, praise is not our first response to difficulties. Sometimes, the pain of our circumstances is so overwhelming, we lash out in fear or anger. But watching Mom's response reminded me that God is still present, still good. He will help us through hard times.
Lord, prepare me for the times when we praise is most difficult to utter.
Even at our lowest point, we can lift our eyes to the Lord.
How like Job. Job lost his children, his wealth, and his health. But after hearing the news, Job 1:20 tells us " he fell to the ground in worship." When advised to curse God, he said, " Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?" What a radical initial response. Though Job later complained, ultimately he accepted that God had never changed. Job knew that God was still with him and that He still cared.
For most of us, praise is not our first response to difficulties. Sometimes, the pain of our circumstances is so overwhelming, we lash out in fear or anger. But watching Mom's response reminded me that God is still present, still good. He will help us through hard times.
Lord, prepare me for the times when we praise is most difficult to utter.
Even at our lowest point, we can lift our eyes to the Lord.
Saturday, February 3, 2018
His Attitude
No one wants to be around a person with a bad attitude. Life is hard enough without listening to someone constantly complaining in your ear. I know a man who is in the habit of being angry and miserable that it is his first reaction to everything even good news. When great things happen, he finds something to be upset about. Unfortunately, this was modeled to him as a child, so it was probably a learned response. Perhaps no one ever showed him how to enjoy life. But allowing the past to control today is still a choice he makes. Because of that, not only will he never be happy, but neither will those around him. We don't want to be that kind of person, nor do we want to live with one.
Without naming names, let me assure you that I am an expert when it comes to praying about it instead. It has paid off, but I'm still perfecting this mode of operation. Every time I prayed for a spirit of joy to arise in this person's heart, I saw visible changes and my reaction was better as well. An angry, dour, unforgiving, negative person can get that way for various reasons. He stays that way because of a stubborn will that refuses to receive God's love. The Bible says we have a choice as to what we will allow into our heart ( Psalm 101:4), and whether we will harden it to the love of God or not ( Proverbs 28:14). We choose our attitude. We choose to receive the love of the Lord. We permit an attitude of thankfulness to rise in us.
If your husband allows himself to wallow in a consistently bad attitude, it will make a good marriage miserable, and a shaky marriage intolerable. A habit of responding negatively will adversely affect every aspect of his life. Of course you can't rule over your husband's will, but you can pray that his will lines up with God's. Pray that his heart becomes pure, because the Bible promises a person who has a pure heart will see God ( Matthew 5:8) and have a cheerful countenance ( Proverbs 15:13). ( Who doesn't wish her husband could see God and have a cheerful countenance?) Pray for his heart to be filled with praise, thanksgiving, love, and joy, because " a good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things" ( Matthew 12:35). Even if there are no major changes immediately, he is certain to be softened by your prayers. And that, at least, can give you a better attitude while you wait for his to improve.
Prayer:
Lord, fill ( husband's name) with Your love and peace today. May there be a calmness, serenity, and a sense of well-being established in him because his life is God-controlled, rather than flesh-controlled. Enable him to walk in his house with a clean and perfect heart before You ( Psalm 101:2). Shine the light of Your Spirit upon him with Your love.
I pray that he will be kind and patient, not selfish or easily provoked. Enable him to bear all things ( 1 Corinthians 13:7). Release him from anger, unrest, anxiety, concerns, inner turmoil, strife, and pressure. ( Proverbs 15:13), but enjoy the continual feast of a merry heart ( Proverbs 15:15). Give him a spirit of joy and keep him from growing into a grumpy old man. Help him to be anxious for nothing, but give thanks in all things so he can know the peace that passes all understanding. May he come to the point of saying, " I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content" ( Philippians 4:11). I say to ( husband's name) this day " The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace" ( Numbers 6:24-26).
Power Tools:
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. ( Philippians 4:6,7)
Cast away from you all the transgressions which you have committed, and get yourselves a new heart and a new spirit. ( Ezekiel 18:31)
Whoever has no rule over his own spirit is like a city broken down, without walls. ( Proverbs 25:28)
Though I have the gift of prophecy, and understanding all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. ( 1 Corinthians 13:2)
Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. ( Psalm 100:4)
Without naming names, let me assure you that I am an expert when it comes to praying about it instead. It has paid off, but I'm still perfecting this mode of operation. Every time I prayed for a spirit of joy to arise in this person's heart, I saw visible changes and my reaction was better as well. An angry, dour, unforgiving, negative person can get that way for various reasons. He stays that way because of a stubborn will that refuses to receive God's love. The Bible says we have a choice as to what we will allow into our heart ( Psalm 101:4), and whether we will harden it to the love of God or not ( Proverbs 28:14). We choose our attitude. We choose to receive the love of the Lord. We permit an attitude of thankfulness to rise in us.
If your husband allows himself to wallow in a consistently bad attitude, it will make a good marriage miserable, and a shaky marriage intolerable. A habit of responding negatively will adversely affect every aspect of his life. Of course you can't rule over your husband's will, but you can pray that his will lines up with God's. Pray that his heart becomes pure, because the Bible promises a person who has a pure heart will see God ( Matthew 5:8) and have a cheerful countenance ( Proverbs 15:13). ( Who doesn't wish her husband could see God and have a cheerful countenance?) Pray for his heart to be filled with praise, thanksgiving, love, and joy, because " a good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things" ( Matthew 12:35). Even if there are no major changes immediately, he is certain to be softened by your prayers. And that, at least, can give you a better attitude while you wait for his to improve.
Prayer:
Lord, fill ( husband's name) with Your love and peace today. May there be a calmness, serenity, and a sense of well-being established in him because his life is God-controlled, rather than flesh-controlled. Enable him to walk in his house with a clean and perfect heart before You ( Psalm 101:2). Shine the light of Your Spirit upon him with Your love.
I pray that he will be kind and patient, not selfish or easily provoked. Enable him to bear all things ( 1 Corinthians 13:7). Release him from anger, unrest, anxiety, concerns, inner turmoil, strife, and pressure. ( Proverbs 15:13), but enjoy the continual feast of a merry heart ( Proverbs 15:15). Give him a spirit of joy and keep him from growing into a grumpy old man. Help him to be anxious for nothing, but give thanks in all things so he can know the peace that passes all understanding. May he come to the point of saying, " I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content" ( Philippians 4:11). I say to ( husband's name) this day " The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace" ( Numbers 6:24-26).
Power Tools:
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. ( Philippians 4:6,7)
Cast away from you all the transgressions which you have committed, and get yourselves a new heart and a new spirit. ( Ezekiel 18:31)
Whoever has no rule over his own spirit is like a city broken down, without walls. ( Proverbs 25:28)
Though I have the gift of prophecy, and understanding all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. ( 1 Corinthians 13:2)
Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. ( Psalm 100:4)
Familiar Places
Bad Habits:
For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin-because anyone who has died has been freed from sin.
Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives to God.
In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires.
Do not offer the parts of your body to sin, as instruments of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God, as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer the parts of your body to him as instruments of righteousness. FOr sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but under grace....
You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.
Scriptures: Romans 6:6-14,18
Defining Moments:
Every time you've turned to an old familiar, forbidden place for relief or revenge, every time you've reacted without thinking or given in when you should have toughed it out, you've unwittingly widened the entrance ramp onto the easy street of compromise. You've made it that much easier to come back for a return trip next time the urge strikes and to keep your car in the straight and narrow.
That's what habits are-really wide, open highways you can drive with your eyes closed. Roads you've traveled so many times that you anticipate every bend, every bump. But you know that you have no business being out there. And if you just had the strength, you'd whip that car around right now and head back where it's safe.
So do it, because now your no has the power of God behind it. And every time you lean hard into His side for the strength to resist, you close another entrance ramp. You shut down another access road. You play dead to the call of the highway. You win over habitual sin.
Next Up:
Taking on tough customers like these with power of prayer and the truth of God's Word will get you ready to tackle any temptation-even when it slips in unnoticed.
Quote:
" Being free from sin not only means I can be strong in Him to stop doing wrong. It also means in Him I have the ability to do what's right." -Stuart Briscoe
For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin-because anyone who has died has been freed from sin.
Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives to God.
In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires.
Do not offer the parts of your body to sin, as instruments of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God, as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer the parts of your body to him as instruments of righteousness. FOr sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but under grace....
You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.
Scriptures: Romans 6:6-14,18
Defining Moments:
Every time you've turned to an old familiar, forbidden place for relief or revenge, every time you've reacted without thinking or given in when you should have toughed it out, you've unwittingly widened the entrance ramp onto the easy street of compromise. You've made it that much easier to come back for a return trip next time the urge strikes and to keep your car in the straight and narrow.
That's what habits are-really wide, open highways you can drive with your eyes closed. Roads you've traveled so many times that you anticipate every bend, every bump. But you know that you have no business being out there. And if you just had the strength, you'd whip that car around right now and head back where it's safe.
So do it, because now your no has the power of God behind it. And every time you lean hard into His side for the strength to resist, you close another entrance ramp. You shut down another access road. You play dead to the call of the highway. You win over habitual sin.
Next Up:
Taking on tough customers like these with power of prayer and the truth of God's Word will get you ready to tackle any temptation-even when it slips in unnoticed.
Quote:
" Being free from sin not only means I can be strong in Him to stop doing wrong. It also means in Him I have the ability to do what's right." -Stuart Briscoe
Your Day Is Coming
Hold on to what you have, that no one will take your crown. ( Revelation 3:11)
Some of you have never won a prize in your life. Oh, maybe you were quatermaster in your Boy Scout troop or in charge of sodas at the homeroom Christmas party, but that's about it. You've never won much. You've watched the Mark McGwires of this would carry home the trophies and walk away with the ribbons. All you have are " almosts" and " what ifs."
If that hits home, then you'll cherish this promise: " And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away." ( 1 Peter 5:4)
Your day is coming. What the world has over looked, your Father has remembered, and sooner than you can imagine, you will be blessed by him.
Some of you have never won a prize in your life. Oh, maybe you were quatermaster in your Boy Scout troop or in charge of sodas at the homeroom Christmas party, but that's about it. You've never won much. You've watched the Mark McGwires of this would carry home the trophies and walk away with the ribbons. All you have are " almosts" and " what ifs."
If that hits home, then you'll cherish this promise: " And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away." ( 1 Peter 5:4)
Your day is coming. What the world has over looked, your Father has remembered, and sooner than you can imagine, you will be blessed by him.
I am With You and For You
I am with you and for you. You face nothing alone-nothing! When you feel anxious, know that you are focusing on the visible world and leaving Me out of the picture. The remedy is simple: Fix your eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. Verbalize your trust in Me, the Living One who sees you always. I will get you safely through this day and all your days. But you can find Me only in the present. Each day is a precious gift from My Father. How ridiculous to grasp for future gifts when today's is set before you! Receive today's gift gratefully, unwrapping it tenderly and delving into depths. As you savor this gift, you find Me.
Romans 8:31; 2 Corinthians 4:18; Genesis 16:13-14
Romans 8:31; 2 Corinthians 4:18; Genesis 16:13-14
How To Change A Life
Sometimes our lives can change in a moment through the powerful impact of others. For rock 'n' roll legend Bruce Springsteen, it was the work of musical artists that helped him through a difficult childhood and a persistent struggle with depression. He found meaning in his own work through the truth he'd experienced firsthand, that " You can change someone's life in three minutes with the right song."
Like a compelling song, others' well-chosen words can also give us hope, even change the course of our lives. I'm sure most of us could share stories of a conversation that forever impacted our lives-words from a teacher that changed the way we saw the world, words of encouragement that restored our confidence, gentle words from a friend that carried us through a difficult time.
Perhaps this is why the book of Proverbs spends so much time emphasizing our responsibility to treasure words and use them wisely. Scripture never treats speech as if it's " just talk." Instead, we are taught that our words can have life-or-death consequences. In just a words we can crush someone's spirit, or, through words of wisdom and hope, nourish and strengthen others.
Not all of us have the ability to create powerful music. But we each can seek God's wisdom to serve others through our speech. With just a few well-chosen words, God can use us to change a life.
Lord, help us never to take for granted the powerful gift of language. May we use our words wisely to heal and strengthen others and point to the hope we have in You.
God has given us the power to have an impact on lives through our words.
Like a compelling song, others' well-chosen words can also give us hope, even change the course of our lives. I'm sure most of us could share stories of a conversation that forever impacted our lives-words from a teacher that changed the way we saw the world, words of encouragement that restored our confidence, gentle words from a friend that carried us through a difficult time.
Perhaps this is why the book of Proverbs spends so much time emphasizing our responsibility to treasure words and use them wisely. Scripture never treats speech as if it's " just talk." Instead, we are taught that our words can have life-or-death consequences. In just a words we can crush someone's spirit, or, through words of wisdom and hope, nourish and strengthen others.
Not all of us have the ability to create powerful music. But we each can seek God's wisdom to serve others through our speech. With just a few well-chosen words, God can use us to change a life.
Lord, help us never to take for granted the powerful gift of language. May we use our words wisely to heal and strengthen others and point to the hope we have in You.
God has given us the power to have an impact on lives through our words.
Thursday, February 1, 2018
Follow Me One Step AT A Time
Follow Me one step at a time. That is all I require of you. In fact, that is the only way to move through this space/time world. You see huge mountains looming, and you start wondering how you're going to scale those heights. Meanwhile, because you're not looking where you're going, you stumble on the easy path where I am leading you now. As I help you get back on your feet, you tell Me how worried you are about the cliffs up ahead. But you don't know what will happen today, much less tomorrow. Our path may take an abrupt turn, leading you away from those mountains. There may be an easier way up the mountains than is visible from the distance. If I do lead you up the cliffs, I will equip you thoroughly for that strenuous climb. I will even give My angels charge over you, to preserve you in all your ways.
Keep your mind on the present journey, enjoying My Presence. Walk by faith, not by sight, trusting Me to open up the way before you.
Psalm 18:29; Psalm 91:11-12; 2 Corinthians 5:7
Keep your mind on the present journey, enjoying My Presence. Walk by faith, not by sight, trusting Me to open up the way before you.
Psalm 18:29; Psalm 91:11-12; 2 Corinthians 5:7
National Treasure
When an advertiser altered a photo of Michelangelo's famous marble sculpture of the biblical hero David, Italy's government and gallery officials objected. Picturing David with a military rifle slung over his shoulder ( instead of his slingshot) would be a violation-"like taking a hammer to it or worse," a cultural official said.
In first-century Jerusalem, David was remembered as the shepherd-songwriter and soldier-king of Israel's fondest memeories and greatest hopes. Prophets foretold that David's descendant would finally defeat the enemies of Israel. So, centuries later, when crowds welcomed Jesus as the Son of David, they were expecting Him to lead thhe revolt that would overthrow their Roman occupiers. Instead Jesus knocked over the tables of temple money-changers to restore His Father's house as a house of prayer for all nations. Israel's leaders were furious. This wasn't the kind of Messiah and son of David they were looking for. So without realizing what they were doing, they called for Roman executioners to take a hammer to the hands and feet of the true glory of Israel.
Instead of stopping them, Jesus let Himself be lifted up on a cross of shame-defaced and disgraced. Only by resurrection would it be known that the true Son of David had defeated His enemies with love and enlisted the children of all nations to spread the word.
Father in heaven, it's hard to admit. But it's true. We get so confused. We try to protect the images we love more than the love You consider priceless.
Jesus shows that God is always better than our expectations.
In first-century Jerusalem, David was remembered as the shepherd-songwriter and soldier-king of Israel's fondest memeories and greatest hopes. Prophets foretold that David's descendant would finally defeat the enemies of Israel. So, centuries later, when crowds welcomed Jesus as the Son of David, they were expecting Him to lead thhe revolt that would overthrow their Roman occupiers. Instead Jesus knocked over the tables of temple money-changers to restore His Father's house as a house of prayer for all nations. Israel's leaders were furious. This wasn't the kind of Messiah and son of David they were looking for. So without realizing what they were doing, they called for Roman executioners to take a hammer to the hands and feet of the true glory of Israel.
Instead of stopping them, Jesus let Himself be lifted up on a cross of shame-defaced and disgraced. Only by resurrection would it be known that the true Son of David had defeated His enemies with love and enlisted the children of all nations to spread the word.
Father in heaven, it's hard to admit. But it's true. We get so confused. We try to protect the images we love more than the love You consider priceless.
Jesus shows that God is always better than our expectations.
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