I BELIEVE THEREFORE I AM ...

How would you finish that sentence?

SCRIPTURE REFERENCES:

                                    GENESIS 15:6 and GENESIS 22

                                    MARK 16:17 & 18

                                    1 JOHN 5: 1 - 3

Faith was simple back in Abraham’s time. “Abram believed the Lord, and He credited it to him as righteousness.” When God later called Abraham to sacrifice Isaac, Abraham gathered wood and walked to the place of sacrifice. He believed in God completely.

Faith was simple when Jesus walked the earth. When Jesus gave His disciples the Great Commission, He told them that signs would accompany those who believed and were saved. The disciples would be able to tell the difference between people who were saved and people who were condemned. The disciples believed Him.

Now some have made a religion of picking up snakes because that was one of the signs listed.  But the real message in Mark is that believers are overcomers of this world. Believers know they are never really in harm’s way regardless of the circumstances surrounding them.

Believers act according to the One they believe in …

And faith was clearly meant to remain simple.

         I JOHN 5:1 – “Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God…

         Verses 2 & 3 – “This is how we know that we love the children of God: by loving God and carrying out His commands. This is love for God: to obey His commands…”

You won’t find believers laboring over how to fit culture and God’s Word together.

You won’t find believers who never have problems.

You won’t find believers only in the church buildings, or only among the wealthy, or only in the mission field, or only among the healthy or …

Let’s keep it simple… believers have words and lives that are locked together.

In the raging spiritual battle against the evil in this world … God has created the one who believes in Jesus and walks in obedience as victory in motion.

         No obedience to God will be too hard.

         Nothing in this world can really harm us.

         Believers in Christ stand out in sharp contrast to the world by our obedience.

So now … how would you finish that sentence?

         I BELIEVE THEREFORE I AM …

Believers … in a world which would try to take our faith and make it complicated to figure out … KEEP IT SIMPLE … God did.   

THE MYSTERY OF "THE CALL"

SCRIPTURE REFERENCE: EZEKIEL - Chapters 1 & 2

I’m reading through Ezekiel again, mostly to get to chapter 37 because I think that is one of the most amazing pieces of imagery in the Bible. However, it seems like big chunks of the Bible give lots of nourishment … so I decided on the whole book … a few nibbles a day.

One of the things I have struggled with over the years has been figuring out what I’m supposed to be “doing” for God. Then of course there is figuring out when the season has ended … and the review of: did I do that right? I know lots of us have that same struggle off and on as we try to follow Jesus so I am hopeful that this small offering will help someone out there.

So here are two questions to ask ourselves when we find our days swirling in a sea of “should I” about our calling in life:

Am I asking the Lord about my call or am I asking myself?

         If we are asking … He is answering

              Scripture reference: Luke 11:13 or Matthew 7:11

Do I really think the Lord God Almighty can’t make Himself clear?

      Ezekiel 1 & 2 will clarify this in my heart for the rest of my days.

         Please take time to read this magnificent passage.       

So how about this mystery of “the call”?

GOD WILL BE CLEAR

         Ezekiel was sitting in the midst of the exiles by the river … “the heavens were opened and I saw visions of God.”

         The Word of the Lord came to him.

         The Hand of the Lord was upon him.

GOD WILL SPEAK TO US

         Of course – Ezekiel was prostrate on the ground in the presence of the Living God – can you imagine the actual presence of the Lord as described in chapter one?

         But God called him to stand up and told Ezekiel that He was going to speak to him and “the Spirit came into me and raised me to my feet, and I heard Him speaking to me.”

GOD WILL SEND US

         And we are not to be afraid no matter what the situation that surrounds us … and we must speak His words.

When we answer the first call to come to God’s heart and family through His Son, Jesus Christ … the rest of the “calls” will fall into place.

God knows who to call for what.

God equips those He calls.

We really can’t miss it when He speaks … trust me if we do – He gets louder.

There is no greater “call” than the call to worship God and to receive the gift of salvation through His Son.

         Everything else will fall into place.

BELIEVE IT OR NOT

When I was a little girl I used to go outside to try to find fairies in the grass. It was a legitimate search, fueled by my belief that fairies existed, and according to my research (yes children have methods of research) fairies were really small.  Additionally I had already decided that all things wonderful were outside. Therefore those exquisite, tiny, magical creatures must be holding parties in the grass right outside our house.

         I’ve always had a logical mind.

         I never looked for fairies indoors.

I Corinthians 13:11 – “When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me.”

         God placed in my heart, body and mind the ability to believe from the time I was a young child. As I grew into adulthood, He has refined belief and faith so that I could put away childish things and search for the essentials. I had the seed when I was little as I combed through the grass for something I had never seen but hoped to find.

As God matured me over the years it was critical that while I put childish ways behind me, I never lose that seed of faith that searched for things I could not see. The childlike faith that Jesus said was so necessary to enter the kingdom of heaven, needed to keep the original design.

We get to believe whatever we choose.

         What we believe in our hearts is the “it” that carries us through our days.

         Believe it and you will live it.

         So what’s your “it”?

         Here is mine:

                  JOHN 3:16 – “ For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.

                           I BELIEVE IN JESUS CHRIST

                  MATTHEW 5:18 – “I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished”

                  2 TIMOTHY 3:16 & 17 – “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

                           I BELIEVE IN GOD’S WORD

         I don’t search for fairies in the grass anymore.

         But I do listen for angel wings sometimes.

WHAT ABOUT HIM?

SCRIPTURE REFERENCES:  PSALM 37

         I have revisited this Psalm many times over the years. Times when life seems unfair, times when the wicked appear to raise their head above the right things of life, times of little money or strength … well you get the idea.

         At my age I have seen lots of things that don’t seem right and often have no remedy. At least none I can access. I’m sure most of you have your own experiences.

                  A job loss through no fault of the worker

                  A job given to the unqualified with a connection

                  A teacher who is a stumbling block

                  A friend who deserts in time of need

                  A spouse who betrays

                  A child who rebels

                  A rich person who is miserly

                  A good person who is dying too young while an evil person lives long

                           The list could go on and on …

         The Lord knew we would have these experiences. He knew there would be days when the wicked appeared to prosper; when the plots of wickedness in the world appeared to have the upper hand; when the wicked seemed to be in power.

         The Lord knew that in response to these situations we would fret, become angry, question why the wicked flourish … in other words get our eyes off the ways of the Lord and on to an evil person who seems to prosper.

         So He made a few promises:

                  The wicked won’t last

                  Evil men will be cut off

                  Their plans and apparent strength will backfire

                  The righteous won’t be forsaken

                  The Lord loves the just and will protect His own forever

                  Those who belong to the Lord will not be left in the power of the wicked

                  We have a future, a stronghold, deliverance and salvation

         So when life tempts us to look around at the people who hurt us, abandon us, seem to prosper and yet are not very nice people … the natural response often is:

         “Lord what about him?”

         Take a few minutes and savor Psalm 37

A MOMENT AGO

Bible Reference: PSALM 39: 4 – 7

“… let me know how fleeting is my life. “

I’m sitting here in my office surrounded by memories.

         On the walls are paintings and memory boards by former students in youth group and drama ministry. I expected those roles to continue … but a moment ago it was time to move on.

         To my left is a picture my youngest son gave me … encouraging me not to quit writing. An odd role for him to fill as my encourager … the baby I gave birth to … a moment ago. He will be 32 in a couple of weeks.

         On the bookshelf to my right sits a book written by my daughter’s oldest son when he was small. He is now almost six feet tall and midway through high school. My daughter whose chubby little hand I held and walked to school … a moment ago.

         On my desk sits a small sign given by another grandchild “Grandma makes me smile”.  He is the son of my firstborn. But I remember my firstborn as a little guy with scraped knees from the first day on his “big boy” bike … it was only a moment ago.

         There are so many memories around this house - including a giant Tigger from an all Tigger Christmas from my hubby, a Styrofoam cup that a favorite student wrote on, a granddaughter’s Christmas gift of a coffee mug, a huge photo collage to “Grams” from the firstborn granddaughter with all the grandchildren’s pictures, and a purple couch that is over 20 years old- I can’t part with because all the grandchildren sat on it … a moment ago.

         Incredible really … how fleeting this life is.

         A photo sits on my bookshelf of my husband in his younger years as a lieutenant on the police force.

                  A moment ago … I watched as he left to attend the funeral of another lieutenant who was a police officer, husband, father, youth leader, and looking forward to retirement … a moment ago.

         “… let me know how fleeting is my life.”

         Make the most of today… Live this moment before it becomes a memory. Squeeze the juice out of every experience that brings you a smile. Sit at the knee of sorrow as it teaches you the big lessons. Cherish the loved ones in your life right this moment – warts and all.

         And above all – don’t forget the first priority … “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and all your soul and with all your strength.” It’s how the moments matter.  

Life is a brief opportunity.

Thank You Lord for showing us that our lives are really but a breath. May we breathe with You today.

LONELY … and other lesser offenses

BIBLE REFERENCE: Mark 1:40 – 2:12

Have you ever felt lonely?

Have you felt like people don’t get you?

Have you ever looked around and realized some people in your life were only interested in what you can do for them – not who you are?

Jesus gets that.

A man with leprosy … but fill in the blank with your life … went to Jesus and begged to be made clean. Jesus looked at him and was filled with compassion – yep that’s our Savior.

When Jesus healed the man, that guy was thrilled!! He was completely cured – not a remission – but cured.  But instead of following through on the way Jesus told him to present a witness to others, the cured man went off and handled things his way.

As a result Jesus could no longer enter a town but “stayed outside in lonely places”.

Jesus understands lonely.

When Jesus was finally able to enter Capernaum a few days later, the crowds were unbelievable. Completely full house … a popular guy … but did the crowds press in because of who Jesus was or because of what He could do?

Jesus knew in His spirit what men were like, they had evil thoughts about Him; they followed Him because they had eaten their fill; they desired healing not Him.  Yet Jesus ministered. He spoke the Word. He showed the way to heaven. He taught what God’s laws really meant. He healed everyone who asked.

Jesus knew the people didn’t “get Him” at the moment.  He also knew circumstances were on the horizon that would bring His life – all of it – into the remembrance of the world. Jesus kept walking toward that horizon, rewarding faith along the way.

Jesus told the paralytic whose friends cut through what stood between the man and healing … “Son, your sins are forgiven”. He saw their faith. To the teachers of the law He made sure they understood what He did was connected to who He was.

Jesus experienced it all – loneliness … being misunderstood … being used.

If I have no other friend – I have Jesus.

If I have no other purpose – I am Jesus’ friend.

If no one on earth understands me – One in heaven does.

If people want what I can do –Jesus cares about who I am.

If I can’t see the path – I will follow His gaze to the horizon.

THE ARMOR OF GOD … as the battle rages

How can we fight a battle we don’t see, an enemy we haven’t identified or use unfamiliar weapons?

         THE ENEMY:

                  The enemy is not flesh and blood It isn’t that kind of a battle. We are fighting unseen forces of evil … rulers … authorities …  the powers of this dark world. Take a stand against the devil’s schemes and stop taking potshots at people.

         THE ARMOR OF GOD:

                  TRUTH – not stretched – not added to or subtracted from – a perfectly fitted belt.

                  RIGHTEOUSNESS – the gear that will guard our hearts – issued by Jesus Christ

                  READINESS – Footwear … the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace

                  SHIELD OF FAITH – This is a shield that allows us to be sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. It is formed by belief in Jesus and what He has done for us; it is expanded by experiences, and it is perfected by use.

                  HELMET – A particular helmet … the helmet of salvation … Remember to wear it everyday – it wasn’t given for a one-time experience only. This helmet is built to protect your thoughts and to shield you from a fatal blow.

                  SWORD – the word of God – the only offensive weapon needed in spiritual warfare. Not just a favorite sweet verse …  the whole Bible.

Search out God’s character – when life doesn’t make sense, rather than give the enemy ground – know how to stand firm on who God is

Dig through the accounts of the Israelites and see what our God does for His chosen people and what He expects of us

Allow the Psalms and Proverbs to saturate life with comfort and wisdom

Don’t forget the laws and ways of the temple … for they will give special insight into what God finds significant for us.

Remember the GOSPELS to learn about Jesus and be ready to cut deeply into enemy territory with the truth of God’s way of salvation.

Spend some time in the LETTERS written by the early believers to help us out

And even if we don’t understand it all – let’s read REVELATION to get the feel of heaven and angels and the promise of Jesus’ return.

And pray – all the time – for everything and everyone.

With this in mind … be alert … and always keep on praying for all the saints.

Now we are ready for spiritual warfare.

A TREE AND ITS FRUIT

How do we know what kind of tree is in front of us?

         Why do we care?

         Substitute person for tree and ask the same questions.

         In our haste to obey the command “Do not judge” we sometimes commit a fatal error of ignoring or skimming over the teaching on how to tell a tree by its fruit.

         The teachings can both be found in Matthew – chapter 7. Jesus clearly intended to teach us not to judge others because we will be judged in the same way. So instead of criticizing the people around me – I need to show mercy … the same way I want to be shown mercy. Jesus also points out the need to remove the obstructions in my own life to allow true vision instead of worrying about the minor issues in the vision of others.

         Equally clearly in verse 6, Jesus expects us to know the difference between giving the sacred and valuable to dogs or pigs. It could be dangerous.

Keeping those in mind, today’s concern is the teaching in verses 15 – 23:

“WATCH OUT FOR FALSE PROPHETS”

Underneath some seemingly mild people who profess Jesus lurk ferocious wolves.  Do we really want ferocious wolves as spiritual mentors?

         Jesus knows them instantly even as they call Him “Lord, Lord”. His response?

         “I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!

         How do we know what kind of tree/prophet is in front of us? We become fruit inspectors.

         Why do we care about the type of tree/prophet  in front of us? We can’t get good nourishment from bad fruit.

         Jesus never intended us to go through life making judgments about people … for lots of reasons. We can’t see their heart, we don’t have all the information, and the bottom line is – it’s not our place. That belongs to Him.

         But we are to be “fruit inspectors”. Just as fruit grows and ripens over time until it is good to eat, so grow the people who would nourish us spiritually.

         It has always been about the relationship.

A good tree planted in rich soil, exposed to lots of sun, absorbing the rain, allowing that relationship to grow daily produces abundant fruit in season.

A person rooted in Jesus, exposed to the Son, absorbing Living Water, allowing that relationship to grow daily produces abundant fruit in season.

Watch out for false prophets! Before someone influences us in our spiritual walk, we need to be fruit inspectors. Don’t look for grapes where thornbushes grow. Don’t bother trying to find figs in thistles.  

Worried about your own fruit today? Check that your roots are firmly in Jesus, expose your heart to the Son, drink Living Water … go grow!

WHAT KIND OF A BATTLE PLAN IS THIS? !#*/!

“No weapon formed against you will prevail”

ISAIAH 54:17

We like those verses … all the time. But we don’t have to read far into the Bible to see that God’s people have trouble. That’s why we are studying spiritual warfare – right? So we can fight the battle with God on our side and win!!

Not exactly the full story.

Sometimes a spiritual battle needs the weapon of submission.

What kind of a weapon is that? !#*/!

There are particular spiritual battles that we bring on ourselves. Let’s be honest we have all sinned, turned from God’s ways, sought our own plans. God is His infinite wisdom does not allow His children to disobey without consequences. 

It’s really the same pattern of any parent worth their salt. We teach boundaries for safety; values for moral compass; we model love and healthy relationships … we try to never give up.  

As children move to teen years and make more of their own calls about life, we struggle to let go and hold on at the same time. The charts with stars and the time out chair fall by the wayside as life’s natural consequences take over.

Our perfect Heavenly Father also uses the consequences of sin to teach us, even as He lovingly waits for us to turn around and behave ourselves. So that spiritual battle that we seem to be fighting? Take a look and see if we are really just facing what we have brought on ourselves by disobedience.

Failed to forgive and now estranged from a friend?

Lashed out in anger and a family member not so close now?

Someone who needed compassion that we refused?

Kept our money to ourselves?

Turned away from our Heavenly Father but still expecting His help?

Check out the solution God gave in Jeremiah 29 when His people were in exile. Oh it was their own fault they lost their homes and favor. They had been warned numerous times to leave their sin, to turn back to God, to stop disrespecting God’s prophets, His house and His laws … but like us … they kept on disobeying and now they were in exile paying the consequences.

The Lord never changes – He still loved His people – He promised to restore them – but first … they were exiled from their true promised land. Consequences of sin.

So what was the battle plan?

Fight the unbelievers who now controlled them?

Civil disobedience to the government?

Angels descending to deliver them?

24 hour prayer vigil?

This is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel gave them to do:

Jeremiah 29:4 – 9

         Build houses and settle down

         Plant gardens – eat

         Marry and have families

         Seek the peace and prosperity of the place where the Lord has carried you

         Pray for the place you are in – because if it prospers- you will too

         Don’t listen to other people tell you that you don’t have to accept this

                  They are lying.

The Lord then reminded the people of His great love for them and His plans to give them hope and a future …

                  at the end of those consequences.

There are some spiritual battles we have gotten ourselves into … submitting to the Lord’s discipline is the only way back to a hope and a future.

Let today be the day we turn back to the Lord and stay there! 

THE BATTLE PLAN (to be continued)

Psst … fellow Christian … over here.

It’s really important in these days to band together. We need to form a block vote.  Here is a list of current topics that we need to stand against.

Psst … fellow Christian … over here.

It’s the end times. This evangelist has a prophetic message.

Psst … fellow Christian … over here.

The enemy has gained a foothold in the mainstream churches – get out now.

Psst … fellow Christian … over here.

You need to be doing a ministry, giving money, witnessing to your neighbors.

There is some truth to the above statements. But they are insufficient, both in words and ways to walk victoriously in Christ until He returns.

Matthew 24:23 – 25

         “At that time if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or “There he is!’ do not believe it. For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and miracles to deceive even the elect – if that were possible. See, I have told you ahead of time.”

Jesus gave us these words for a reason. Part of our battle plan is to listen to what Jesus has said – in His own words – from the Bible

* not from another Christian’s interpretation

* not from a commentary

* not from a blog (that’s right not this one either)

* not from the media (even if they are a Christian politician – is that an oxymoron? Not necessarily.)

* not from our best friend

Does that mean we can’t read Christian books, commentaries, listen to TV evangelists, follow a blog, talk to our friends? Of course not. This message today isn’t to put more obstacles in our path but rather to recognize that if we are going to do true spiritual battle … we are going to need a clear battle plan. We are going to need to follow a trusted leader … Someone who never fails and always knows the way. Yep! Only Jesus fills the bill.

The Bible is a protected, eternal, word of God.

         Luke 21:33

         Matthew 5:18

         2 Timothy 3:16

Go look them up – Let the battle plan begin!

"CAN YOU COME OUT TO PLAY?"

Do you remember those words from your childhood? I do. I particularly remember what they represented. An invitation to get away from the chores; to leave behind the regular stuff of watching television and homework; to go outside with my friend and just … be me.

         One of my favorite pastimes as a kid was to get on my shiny blue bicycle and take off for a long ride. I went with my friend and we explored streets all around the neighborhood. Sometimes we got lost and it was a great adventure to find our way home. When I would mount the stairs to the old green porch and enter the back door to the tiny kitchen … I felt refreshed. I was ready to start the homework and chores and watch some TV with my mom.

         It’s Monday morning. The weekend of relaxation is a memory and the weekend ahead merely a wish. A long workweek resides between the two. So now that we are adults, does that mean we can’t “come out and play”?

         Actually kids know instinctively that this time apart to refresh is needed … daily. We lose our way as we become adults and lock ourselves in to routines and schedules that, if we are honest, don’t bring out the best in us.

         The Lord gave us the Sabbath for our own good. It was made for us. But we sometimes lose sight of the fact that coming away from the ordinary to be in the presence of the extraordinary is also a teaching of God for daily living.

         *Jesus regularly drew apart to talk to His Father preparing for healing, miracles, and becoming the Savior of the world.

         *God’s people were called to draw apart from the nations around them – for they were an extraordinary people.

         *In Isaiah 1:18 – the Lord invites us to “come, let us reason together” with amazing results in cleansing from sin.

         *Moses was called to come apart to a burning bush – allowed to stand on holy ground.

         *The prophets were called apart to hear God’s word so they might warn a nation.

         *Mary was called from chores to the feet of Jesus

         *We are called into our “secret place” to pray where only God our Father hears us.

         *John was called during his exile to record a revelation, to see God’s throne, to experience heaven.

So today let’s draw from that long forgotten experience of “Can you come out to play?”  Remember – it was apart from the ordinary – involved a friend – refreshed your life.

Come on out of the ordinary – to experience the extraordinary presence of God … don’t wait for the weekend.

THE CONCLUSION

Are you a person who just wants to know how it’s going to end? Do you ever flip to the back of the book to see how things turned out? When someone talks to you, do you sometimes just wish they’d get to the point?

         The book of Ecclesiastes tells the thought process of a man who is searching for the meaning of life. He is a person of means and able to indulge in anything he wants so his search doesn’t have much in the way of boundaries.

         The last six verses of the book tell his conclusion. So what is the point of the other eleven and a half chapters? Those chapters are his journey, which he needs to make to discover the end he set out to find …the meaning of life.

         We are often fearful as we watch our own journey… the journey of our children … the journey of other people we love … but take heart. 

         It is not God’s will that any perish, but that everyone repent. God sent Jesus that the people would know Him, not miss Him. So don’t give up on anyone … pray without ceasing … live as Christ has shown us … the conclusion is coming …

                           For God so loved the world …

Read Ecclesiastes for more information on the search for the meaning of life … ENJOY THIS DAY OF YOUR JOURNEY!!

DOUBLE MINDED

Today is a beautiful sunny day.

                  There is a mosquito flying around here.

God has blessed me with good health.

                  Today I have a cold and feel sick.

God is my ever-present help in time of trouble.

                  I feel so alone.

We are told to gather with fellow believers – we are to be like family.

                  I don’t fit in at my church anymore.

I know that we can’t “outgive” God.

                  If I write the tithe check, I can’t pay the mortgage.

God heals.

                  I’m sick.

God forgives.

                  I feel guilty.

God knows everything.

                  I don’t think He understands.

James 1:5 -8 “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.

Believing doesn’t mean ignoring the other pieces of life standing around us.

But it does mean deciding which place we will assess as our source of power.

There are only two choices.

         That’s right just two. No matter how the packages are wrapped – is it from God or the world? Pick your present.

The world will always have waves and mosquitos. God will always have wisdom.

THE SOUND OF SORROW

JEREMIAH 9: 17 – 19

         Please take the time to read these verses and the surrounding chapter in their entirety. For the moment know that the Lord Almighty tells the people to call for the wailing women, the most skillful among them and let them wail over the nation … “till our eyes overflow with tears and water streams from our eyelids.”

         The sound of wailing is to be heard and the lament spoken… “how ruined we are! How great is our shame…”.

         And why was it so necessary to have this sound of sorrow? It was necessary and desirable to cry profusely because the nation had continuously disobeyed the Lord, setting aside His laws, and refusing to repent.

         It’s funny – the world doesn’t like the sound of sorrow. We are discouraged from crying, certainly from wailing loudly and calling ourselves ruined. It is perhaps acceptable to dab at our eyes quietly and talk to a counselor but this whole lamenting over life has pretty much been buried as an archaic custom.

         And the way we often “get over” our sorrow for sin is to reframe it into an acceptable need for something else. We don’t need to feel sorry for a behavior if we can justify it as a “need” to express ourselves. Hogwash!

         The first wrong step in this process of avoiding sorrow is to decide to call a sin something else. If God has defined a behavior as a sin – we don’t get to change that – even if the whole world calls it acceptable.

         Let me use myself as an example. (yikes!) God has said not to sin in my anger. He has also made perfectly clear that my anger does not accomplish His righteous purposes. So when I tell myself that lashing out in my anger is “justified because of what the other person did” or that my anger is “needed to get results” – I’m deceiving myself and allowing sin to take hold.

         What should my response be? You guessed it. The sound of sorrow … weeping that I have turned from God’s ways … shame for my behavior … and the sound of my knees hitting the floor before Him.

         Seriously there are worse things than sorrow.

         Like the inability to know when we should be sorrowful before God.

Is there something in your life today that you need to be sorry for? Has the sound of sorrow been drowned out in your life by the excuses of the world? Go ahead and cry in the Lord’s presence – it will be accepted and comforted.

Have a day open to the sound of sorrow.

AN ARTIST AWAITS

Have you ever wished you could have artistic talent? I have no gift in the area of art but have greatly admired some creations from time to time. I have seen a painting that calms me, a photograph that brings appreciation for a small piece of life and a sculpture that exudes strength.

In the hands of an artist, inanimate objects produce life. Raw materials become a new thing … one of beauty … lasting in influence … gathering people together in admiration of the artist and life.

No one admires a paintbrush. A lump of clay is just a lump of clay. A camera sits on a shelf. To become art and life – these objects require the touch of the hand of the artist.

Genesis 2:26 “Then God said, ‘Let us make man in our image, in our likeness…’”

Verse 27 continues  “So God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.”

From the beginning God has established that He is the creator of all things and that we are made in His image. Yet somehow on most days we can find ourselves picking at the artwork … too much dark, not enough green, weak knees, not shiny enough?

Well let’s remember that raw materials really only come alive to make their mark in the world in the hands of a Master Artist. The Artist who awaits us, can draw light from darkness and make stars from nothing. He created a man from dust, put in place the womb to carry life, forms snowflakes individually … well you get the point.

It is safe and right to bring Him our splashes of green, shadows of darkness, hopes and dreams … they are His paintbrush, clay and camera … Let’s submit to the Creator of our lives and let Him design what He wants.

We are made in God’s image – in His likeness – male and female – He created us.

Be blessed as you display the artwork of the King today!

LIFE UNDER THE BOILING POT

In chapter one of the book of Jeremiah, God calls the prophet. Jeremiah is only a young person, not confident of his ability yet the Lord reaches out His hand and touches Jeremiah’s mouth. Life will never be the same.

         Jeremiah, ready or not, is appointed in the moment “over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant.”

If Jeremiah was hoping for a small spot of service where he could worship and not have too much responsibility – he was in for the shock of his life.

         God says, “Get yourself ready! Stand up and say to them whatever I command you.”

         God asked Jeremiah, “What do you see?” One of the answers from Jeremiah: “I see a boiling pot, tilting away from the north.”

I wonder what Jeremiah was thinking when he gave God that answer.

         “I must sound crazy.”

         “I have no idea what the boiling pot means.”

         “I hope I’m seeing this right.”

         Haven’t we been there as believers in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior? As readers of God’s Word, don’t we question what is plainly in front of us? It is so out of line with what we see surrounding us. We are going to sound like nuts. Sometimes don’t we even hope that we aren’t going to have to be the ones to say it?

         God told Jeremiah the boiling pot represented the disaster He was about to pour out on all the people in the land. Why? …  Because they were wicked in forsaking God … because they were worshipping other gods … because they were worshipping what their hands had made.

         Life under the boiling pot … because the people had turned away from God. Somebody was going to have to tell the people why they were living under judgment. The religious and political leaders were not going to like the message. Jeremiah was called to be that someone. Because people who live under a boiling pot need to move in a different direction.

         So who are we today? Are we living under a boiling pot of judgment from God because we have turned from His ways? Are we the person called to “Get yourself ready”? Are we the ones in positions of leadership who don’t want to hear a message of correction?

         Chapter one of Jeremiah ends with these words: “They will fight against you but will not overcome you, for I am with you and will rescue you, declares the Lord”

         I think I’ll take my chances with the world disliking me and say what God says …  since it turns out my rescue is certain.

         Have a safe day and speak up.

PROVERBS CHAPTER 27

Wisdom – it keeps nation from wars and individuals from mistakes.

         Wisdom – it forms a path through life where the walk is pleasant and the soul is fed.

         Wisdom – it is created and given by God.

         Wisdom is the food of the book of Proverbs. Since that book has thirty-one chapters, it is a good spot to read each day of the month. We can easily tuck it into the morning or evening or lunch hours of each day in addition to our regular scripture reading.

         TODAY:

         27:1 – “Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.”  That verse gives perspective to our endless plans and worries about the future.  Seriously, we have no idea what is ahead.

         27:12 – “The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and suffer for it.” Be still just a moment – something you are involved in that is a danger to your soul – don’t keep going toward sin – stop and take refuge in the Lord.

         27:15: “A quarrelsome wife is like a constant dripping on a rainy day …”  Ladies – enough said.

         27:17: “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” The fellowship of a friend will do much for our life to keep us on the mark.

         27:19: “As water reflects a face, so a man’s heart reflects the man.”  Spend another quiet moment with God. In all honesty – what is in our hearts? Do we have worship or worry; admiration or envy; kindness or malice?

         27:22 – Talks about not being able to remove folly from a fool. We can’t change people. A fool is a fool. Only the Holy Spirit can change another person. Stop spending energy on what is impossible and quite frankly – not our job.

         27:23-27 – Talks about being careful managers and stewards so that we can continue to have plenty and be able to care for our family and others. I could really use this. In a world where more is better … how about learning what we have is enough?

         And that my friends was perusing one chapter in a few minutes. Imagine what spending time in God’s wisdom everyday could create in our lives.

         God’s wisdom to you all!

TAKIN' OUT THE TRASH

Tomorrow is Friday, which means trash day in my neighborhood. A big truck will come rumbling down the street, stopping at each house, and empty the large smelly bins.  Once again the homes on our street will be free of the trash.

         Except for a few folks who have forgotten it is trash day. They will look up in despair as they hear the heavy truck, realizing their homes will be stuck with the smelly trash for another week. Its no fun to have a house overloaded with trash.

         We’ve heard often in God’s Word about the concept of our bodies being the place where the Holy Spirit lives … His house. Yet do we have a regular trash day for this most precious dwelling place?

         Too often I’m afraid we may forget this important task that allows the Holy Spirit to live in a trash-free environment. Just as I don’t want to miss the day to put the garbage and refuse from my earthly house out to be taken away, I also don’t want to miss the Bible’s mandate to “take out the trash” in my life.

So much of the Bible talks about living in a trash-free setting but let’s take a look at EPHESIANS. I encourage all of us to read it completely but for this moment in time may I direct our attention to:

         Ephesians 4: 31 – “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.”

         In other words: TAKE OUT THE TRASH!

Verse 30 talks about not grieving the Holy Spirit with whom we were sealed for the day of redemption. I mean really? Would I want to be sealed up in close proximity to my trash?

Neither does the precious Comforter who Jesus sent to help us. We are the temple … the home … of God’s Holy Spirit. If our earthly homes require a regular time when the trash and excess is removed, doesn’t our Lord deserve the same clean environment?

So today – before it gets busy – get with God and take out the trash! I’d love to chat more … writing is one of my favorite things … however … I really need to take out the trash … today is the day!

Love and prayers to all of you.

EXPECTATIONS

What does the word conjure up in your mind? What kind of blessings do you see? Are there feelings that swirl through you as you roll the word “expectations” around your mind?

         More than one person has told me that I have unrealistic expectations. That elusive thing beckoning me forward … surely this will be the thing … it is due … presuming that life will go in this direction. They were correct. I have indulged in unrealistic expectations. How about you?

         Ever expected a promotion that didn’t happen? How about fair treatment that was due you? Ever expected your spouse or children to behave in certain ways that didn’t happen? Have you expected your circumstances to improve, only to have them shatter at your feet? Perhaps expected a friend to be at your side and found yourself alone and misunderstood? Certainly we can expect fellow Christians to do the right thing?

Expectations imposed on people or situations can disappoint. Getting stuck on expectations we feel we deserve or that seem  “right” can blind us to blessings and seasons of growth.

Expectations should produce hope in our hearts - not shackles for others or unrelenting demands on our circumstances.

Expectations are safest to embrace from God alone. Times and people will disappoint but God will never fail.

Long ago God’s own chosen people lost sight of where to place their expectations. Only a handful on a dark and starry night bent down to welcome a Savior. Although the scriptures spoke of all the things to look for … they looked for something else.

Oppressed beneath a rule of harshness and irreverence, the people were sure that God would send a King of might to destroy the Roman forces. Little did they expect a baby, who grew in wisdom and stature with God and man, among them. Many missed a powerful Savior standing right next to them, by clinging to expectations they had imagined for themselves.

         Are signs and wonders, health and prosperity, people and government still part of our expectations? Or can we turn our expectations to a Savior who walks the road of life with us? When we find Him – all the rest falls into place.

         Take the pressure off yourself today and the people around you … center your hopes and dreams in the hands of the One who will surpass all the expectations you could ever have.

WAYS TO AVOID DEATH AND BONE ROT

The glossy magazine cover boasts a perfect body and a healthy glow. Our generation and culture seeks health - following the scent of its possibilities to some very strange places. We watch what we eat … how many steps we make each day … we spend millions a year on gyms and juicers and doctors and organic everything, just to name a few.

         Some of the solutions may have some merit. But for the next few moments, please consider investing some time in examining the best ways to pursue excellent health.

         We often neglect the simple truth. Somehow the riot of beckoning worldly wisdom obscures the exact path to a truly healthy life that does not bow to death or decay.

         The Word of God is not silent on health issues but it can be the last place we seek wisdom.

         Proverbs 14: 27 – “The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death.”

         Proverbs 14: 30 A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.”

         Proverbs 3: 7 & 8 – “Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones.”

         Proverbs 15:30 – “A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones.”

         Psalms 34:12 -14– “Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies. Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.”

         This is merely the tip of the store of knowledge and wisdom on health in God’s Word. His interest in giving us health was shown as Jesus walked through the people and healed without reservation to all who asked. He often included a prescription to stop sinning or a confirmation that faith had made healing possible.

         Do we want to tend to our health … our bones … nourish our days?

Put down the magazine … tune out the health gurus for a moment … let’s first seek the One who created our bodies and our lives … everything else will fall into place.