Lately, I've encorporated a couple of old hymnals into my personal prayer time with the Lord. I grew up on many of these old hymns, and despite their age in years, they still touch my heart as if I were singing them for the first time. During my quiet time, just me, God, and my cup of coffee, I flip through a hymnal and sing a few familiar ones or just read the words of those I've never heard before.
One thing that has been overwhelmingly obvious to me is that many of these old songs focused on the authors' longing for heaven and the fact that this world is not our home. Here are a few examples of song titles that you may or may not be familiar with:
Longing for Home
When the Roll is Called Up Yonder
Mansion Over the Hilltop
I'll Fly Away
Peace in the Valley
O Happy Day
Sweet By and By
Where We'll Never Grow Old
These hymns speak of a land filled with mansions, streets of gold, and no more sickness or heartache. A land where all our work is done, where we have no more cares. A land of light where there is no darkness. Blooming flowers, heavenly sunshine, all while walking hand in hand with Christ Himself.
It's made me question my own longing for heaven. Sure, there are times of trials, heartache, and worry that leads me to long for heaven, but what about during the good times? Have we made earth such a satisfying place to live with all our technology, entertainment, and material possessions that we fail to have a longing, a desire, an aching pain that reminds us that this world is not our home?
Questions to ponder:
1. How much time do you spend longing for heaven?
2. What can you do on a daily basis to remind yourself that this world is not our home?
Have a glorious day!
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Drop the Ball!
1 Samuel 12:21
Do not turn away after useless idols. They can do you no good, nor can they rescue you, because they are useless.
I began a Beth Moore Bible study yesterday at my church. Beth has an amazing passion for and understanding of the Bible, and I so enjoy learning from her. I also love her stories. In the video we watched yesterday, she described how her adorable dog named Queen Esther is obsessed with this particular ball. She eats with it, sleeps with it, cherishes it. When Beth puts the ball away in a drawer, the dog lays by the drawer looking loving and longingly towards the drawer where her precious ball resides. There are times when Beth has to tell Queen Esther to drop the ball, and I can just see her trying to tug the slobbery rubber ball out of the dog's tightly-clenched jaws.
Beth related this story to how we, as God's freed people, continue to hold onto the "balls" in our lives. We become slaves to our idols, obsessed to the point where we want to eat with them, sleep with them, cherish them.
We allow the chains of our idols to bind us, although Christ has already freed us from them.
This really hit home with me. Do I have balls that I need to drop? Are there things that I give a place higher than they should be? What idols are in my life? God is prompting me to drop the ball. Will you drop yours?
Do not turn away after useless idols. They can do you no good, nor can they rescue you, because they are useless.
I began a Beth Moore Bible study yesterday at my church. Beth has an amazing passion for and understanding of the Bible, and I so enjoy learning from her. I also love her stories. In the video we watched yesterday, she described how her adorable dog named Queen Esther is obsessed with this particular ball. She eats with it, sleeps with it, cherishes it. When Beth puts the ball away in a drawer, the dog lays by the drawer looking loving and longingly towards the drawer where her precious ball resides. There are times when Beth has to tell Queen Esther to drop the ball, and I can just see her trying to tug the slobbery rubber ball out of the dog's tightly-clenched jaws.
Beth related this story to how we, as God's freed people, continue to hold onto the "balls" in our lives. We become slaves to our idols, obsessed to the point where we want to eat with them, sleep with them, cherish them.
We allow the chains of our idols to bind us, although Christ has already freed us from them.
This really hit home with me. Do I have balls that I need to drop? Are there things that I give a place higher than they should be? What idols are in my life? God is prompting me to drop the ball. Will you drop yours?
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Peace, I'll Give You Peace
John 14:27
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 16:33
"I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
As I was reading these two verses this morning from my devotional, I began humming an older Sandi Patty song that I wanted to share with you. Very, very pretty. Here are the lyrics, but if you get a chance to hear it, do!
Sometimes when you're in the valleys
All of your burdens you carry alone
Oh, but I know, I know when you need Me
Call I'll be there
Longing to prove how much I care
Peace, I'll give you peace
When the wind blows on
Peace, whenever you call Me
I'll give you peace
When the wind blows on
Heartaches, whenever your heart aches
I want to be there
To help see you through
When you're weary
You know you can find all the strength that you need
Find your rest and your hope in Me
No matter how long the night may last,
I'll keep you safe 'til the storm is past
Oh, I'll give you
Peace, sweet peace
When the wind blows on
Peace, whenever you call Me
I'll give you peace
When the wind blows on
I'll give you peace when the wind starts blowing
Peace, I'll give you peace
Have a day filled with the peace and joy that He alone can provide!
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 16:33
"I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
As I was reading these two verses this morning from my devotional, I began humming an older Sandi Patty song that I wanted to share with you. Very, very pretty. Here are the lyrics, but if you get a chance to hear it, do!
Sometimes when you're in the valleys
All of your burdens you carry alone
Oh, but I know, I know when you need Me
Call I'll be there
Longing to prove how much I care
Peace, I'll give you peace
When the wind blows on
Peace, whenever you call Me
I'll give you peace
When the wind blows on
Heartaches, whenever your heart aches
I want to be there
To help see you through
When you're weary
You know you can find all the strength that you need
Find your rest and your hope in Me
No matter how long the night may last,
I'll keep you safe 'til the storm is past
Oh, I'll give you
Peace, sweet peace
When the wind blows on
Peace, whenever you call Me
I'll give you peace
When the wind blows on
I'll give you peace when the wind starts blowing
Peace, I'll give you peace
Have a day filled with the peace and joy that He alone can provide!
Monday, August 23, 2010
Entrust Your Loved Ones to the Lord
Exodus 33:14
The LORD replied, "My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest."
2 Kings 17:12
They worshiped idols, though the LORD had said, "You shall not do this."
Many parents are sending their children off today for the first day of school. School supplies are packed, lunches are made, and pictures are being taken. My devotional this morning reminded me to entrust your loved ones to the Lord. Release your little ones into His protective care. It's in His arms where they are safest. It aso reminded me to be very careful not to endanger your loved ones by allowing them to become an idol to you. God tells us numerous times how He feels about idols. He often took extreme measures to rid His people of their idols. Remember Abraham and Isaac? God had to be sure that Abraham had no other idols before Him, including his son. Thankfully, Abraham passed God's test, and Isaac was saved.
So today, release your children to the Lord. Entrust Him alone with their safety and protection. He will be there holding their hand throughout today and every day.
The LORD replied, "My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest."
2 Kings 17:12
They worshiped idols, though the LORD had said, "You shall not do this."
Many parents are sending their children off today for the first day of school. School supplies are packed, lunches are made, and pictures are being taken. My devotional this morning reminded me to entrust your loved ones to the Lord. Release your little ones into His protective care. It's in His arms where they are safest. It aso reminded me to be very careful not to endanger your loved ones by allowing them to become an idol to you. God tells us numerous times how He feels about idols. He often took extreme measures to rid His people of their idols. Remember Abraham and Isaac? God had to be sure that Abraham had no other idols before Him, including his son. Thankfully, Abraham passed God's test, and Isaac was saved.
So today, release your children to the Lord. Entrust Him alone with their safety and protection. He will be there holding their hand throughout today and every day.
Monday, August 2, 2010
The Secret to Contentment
Phil. 4:11-12
...For I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well-fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.
What an awesome example God provides us through Paul! Oh, to be content no matter what our circumstances may be! Paul discovered the secret to contentment. If we read on to Phil. 4:13, we find out what his secret was. He says:
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
So, the secret to contentment? Christ Himself. Putting our faith and trust and hope in Him alone... not in our circumstances, not in our possessions, not in ourselves. It's easy to feel content in times of good health, when we have a nice home with nice furniture and possessions. It's easy when your marriage is going smoothly and when the kids are doing well in school. When there is a steady income coming in and bills are able to be paid on time.
But what about in difficult times? Are we still content with life then? Or do we waller in self-pity, disappointment, and bitterness? I admit that this is a big challenge for me. I tend to find myself always wanting more, and when more comes, I want even more. The truth is that contentment will not come via earthly things, people, or circumstances. True contentment comes from Christ alone.
Dear Lord, I cannot truthfully say at all times that I am content no matter the circumstances I find myself in. I pray that You will teach me to be content and to allow You to reign sovereign in my life. You know better than I do what I need to grow, so I ask that You nourish me with Your provisions, that I may be content in You who gives me strength. Amen.
...For I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well-fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.
What an awesome example God provides us through Paul! Oh, to be content no matter what our circumstances may be! Paul discovered the secret to contentment. If we read on to Phil. 4:13, we find out what his secret was. He says:
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
So, the secret to contentment? Christ Himself. Putting our faith and trust and hope in Him alone... not in our circumstances, not in our possessions, not in ourselves. It's easy to feel content in times of good health, when we have a nice home with nice furniture and possessions. It's easy when your marriage is going smoothly and when the kids are doing well in school. When there is a steady income coming in and bills are able to be paid on time.
But what about in difficult times? Are we still content with life then? Or do we waller in self-pity, disappointment, and bitterness? I admit that this is a big challenge for me. I tend to find myself always wanting more, and when more comes, I want even more. The truth is that contentment will not come via earthly things, people, or circumstances. True contentment comes from Christ alone.
Dear Lord, I cannot truthfully say at all times that I am content no matter the circumstances I find myself in. I pray that You will teach me to be content and to allow You to reign sovereign in my life. You know better than I do what I need to grow, so I ask that You nourish me with Your provisions, that I may be content in You who gives me strength. Amen.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Glory in Your Tribulations
Romans 5:3-5
...But we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance, and perseverance, character, and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
Tribulation, trials, troubles... whatever we call them doesn't matter. Our human nature is the avoid them, detest them, or ignore them. But God, in His ultimate wisdom, tells us to glory in them, rejoice in them, be happy about them. How could that be?
God sees the bigger, grander picture. He knows that the trials we endure bring about good things to come. Sometimes we can directly see the good take place. Other times we continue to wonder how any good could possibly come out of a particular situation. Perhaps our personal trials can lead to another person's trust in you or just an opportunity to witness to someone. Or perhaps the trial simply strengthens your character so you can endure the next trial easier or to help someone else get through their trial.
No matter what, we know that God is in our trials... every step, every breath, every tear. He knows when your heart is broken and when you feel as if you just can't go on. Remember that God put His only Son through the ultimate trial... death on the cross. He separated Himself from His Son so that we could draw closer to Him through the forgiveness of sin.
Dear Lord, I am not asking for trials to come my way, but I thank You for the promise that trials will lead to hope, and in the process, draw me closer to You. Amen.
...But we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance, and perseverance, character, and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
Tribulation, trials, troubles... whatever we call them doesn't matter. Our human nature is the avoid them, detest them, or ignore them. But God, in His ultimate wisdom, tells us to glory in them, rejoice in them, be happy about them. How could that be?
God sees the bigger, grander picture. He knows that the trials we endure bring about good things to come. Sometimes we can directly see the good take place. Other times we continue to wonder how any good could possibly come out of a particular situation. Perhaps our personal trials can lead to another person's trust in you or just an opportunity to witness to someone. Or perhaps the trial simply strengthens your character so you can endure the next trial easier or to help someone else get through their trial.
No matter what, we know that God is in our trials... every step, every breath, every tear. He knows when your heart is broken and when you feel as if you just can't go on. Remember that God put His only Son through the ultimate trial... death on the cross. He separated Himself from His Son so that we could draw closer to Him through the forgiveness of sin.
Dear Lord, I am not asking for trials to come my way, but I thank You for the promise that trials will lead to hope, and in the process, draw me closer to You. Amen.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
It's All Because of Jesus
Romans 5:1-2
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
I have been justified by God. He has declared me righteous and acquitted me of my sins through the blood of Jesus. Because of my faith, I have an everlasting peace with God, and it's all because of Jesus. For it is through Him that I can enter into the throne of grace, grace freely given to me to stand strong upon, walk worthy, and rejoice that God is my life and my hope!
Dear God, You have looked upon my sins, my past, my feelings, my actions, my character, and my heart... and yet, You see all of these things covered by the blood of Your precious Son and have called me righteous! How amazing! How marvelous! Lord, teach me to walk worthy of this righteousness You have blessed me with. Amen.
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
I have been justified by God. He has declared me righteous and acquitted me of my sins through the blood of Jesus. Because of my faith, I have an everlasting peace with God, and it's all because of Jesus. For it is through Him that I can enter into the throne of grace, grace freely given to me to stand strong upon, walk worthy, and rejoice that God is my life and my hope!
Dear God, You have looked upon my sins, my past, my feelings, my actions, my character, and my heart... and yet, You see all of these things covered by the blood of Your precious Son and have called me righteous! How amazing! How marvelous! Lord, teach me to walk worthy of this righteousness You have blessed me with. Amen.
Monday, July 19, 2010
A Friend of Jesus
John 15:15
No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father, I have made known to you.
Jesus is talking to His disciples. He knows His time on earth as a man is nearing an end. He is sharing some final thoughts and wisdom with them when He makes this grand statement: "You have graduated from servants to friends." I can only imagine how the disciples must've felt at this moment... to be considered a friend by Jesus Himself, God's only Son, Prince of Peace, and Lord of Lords!
A friendship signifies a true bond, a close relationship, two-way communication. Jesus was telling them that they had become His friends. What does this mean for us as followers of Christ? That we are also friends of Jesus. We can sit with Him and talk with Him, chit-chat about our plans for the day, our goals in life. We can share our burdens with Him, our joys, our dreams. He is a true friend that can always be counted on! Thank You, Jesus, for Your true friendship!
No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father, I have made known to you.
Jesus is talking to His disciples. He knows His time on earth as a man is nearing an end. He is sharing some final thoughts and wisdom with them when He makes this grand statement: "You have graduated from servants to friends." I can only imagine how the disciples must've felt at this moment... to be considered a friend by Jesus Himself, God's only Son, Prince of Peace, and Lord of Lords!
A friendship signifies a true bond, a close relationship, two-way communication. Jesus was telling them that they had become His friends. What does this mean for us as followers of Christ? That we are also friends of Jesus. We can sit with Him and talk with Him, chit-chat about our plans for the day, our goals in life. We can share our burdens with Him, our joys, our dreams. He is a true friend that can always be counted on! Thank You, Jesus, for Your true friendship!
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Child of God
John 1:12-13
But as many received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
I am a child of God for I have received Him and believe in Him! I was born out of the will of God; therefore, my identity is in Christ. I am His. I belong to Him.
As a child of God, God is my Father, my Daddy, my Protector, Provider, Healer, Comforter, Caregiver. He helps me to grow in Him. He teaches me. He loves me! Oh, how He loves me!
Dear Lord, I am so honored and blessed to be called Your child. To know that You are my Father, and I am Your daughter is amazing and wonderful. Oh, how I long to know You more!
But as many received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
I am a child of God for I have received Him and believe in Him! I was born out of the will of God; therefore, my identity is in Christ. I am His. I belong to Him.
As a child of God, God is my Father, my Daddy, my Protector, Provider, Healer, Comforter, Caregiver. He helps me to grow in Him. He teaches me. He loves me! Oh, how He loves me!
Dear Lord, I am so honored and blessed to be called Your child. To know that You are my Father, and I am Your daughter is amazing and wonderful. Oh, how I long to know You more!
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Walk in the Spirit
Galatians 5:16-18
I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.
Walk in the Spirit. Be of one mind with Christ. Be so full of the Spirit that there's room for little else.
The flesh is of the world, but the Spirit is of God. The world is temporary, but God is eternal. The world is evil, but God is good. The world destroys, but God is the ultimate Healer. The world can be a dark place, but darkness is simply the absence of His light.
Lord Jesus, allow me to walk in the Spirit today and to strive to be of one mind with You. Amen.
I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.
Walk in the Spirit. Be of one mind with Christ. Be so full of the Spirit that there's room for little else.
The flesh is of the world, but the Spirit is of God. The world is temporary, but God is eternal. The world is evil, but God is good. The world destroys, but God is the ultimate Healer. The world can be a dark place, but darkness is simply the absence of His light.
Lord Jesus, allow me to walk in the Spirit today and to strive to be of one mind with You. Amen.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Stand Fast
Galatians 5:1
Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.
We so easily fall into the trappings of this world, a world that is not our home. I know that I frequently get myself tangled up in Satan's evil web of lies and deception. Thank God that Satan does not devour me, for I am not his to devour. I was bought with a price, the shedding of Christ's precious blood as He hung on the cross. I belong only to Him!
However, Satan can surely keep me from exalting the name of Jesus in all His glory, not in his own strength (for he does not have that power), but as a result of the sticky traps I, myself, fall into. But praise God that he can only keep me trapped for so long until God pulls me out of that web, the web where Satan desires to keep me. I know that the longer I stay in that web, the harder it will be to escape. It can become a comfortable place as Satan feeds me lies and half-truths.
This is why it is so important to STAND FAST. Be strong. Do not waver. Hold on tightly to your faith. Weather the storms with your feet planted firmly on the ground. We are FREE in Christ. We were bought with a price... a price in which Jesus paid all. Do not give up that freedom by becoming ENTANGLED in a web of lies. The price paid for that freedom was great. Take up His YOKE and follow Him... the giver of our freedom, for His yoke is easy and His burden is light. Stand fast!
Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.
We so easily fall into the trappings of this world, a world that is not our home. I know that I frequently get myself tangled up in Satan's evil web of lies and deception. Thank God that Satan does not devour me, for I am not his to devour. I was bought with a price, the shedding of Christ's precious blood as He hung on the cross. I belong only to Him!
However, Satan can surely keep me from exalting the name of Jesus in all His glory, not in his own strength (for he does not have that power), but as a result of the sticky traps I, myself, fall into. But praise God that he can only keep me trapped for so long until God pulls me out of that web, the web where Satan desires to keep me. I know that the longer I stay in that web, the harder it will be to escape. It can become a comfortable place as Satan feeds me lies and half-truths.
This is why it is so important to STAND FAST. Be strong. Do not waver. Hold on tightly to your faith. Weather the storms with your feet planted firmly on the ground. We are FREE in Christ. We were bought with a price... a price in which Jesus paid all. Do not give up that freedom by becoming ENTANGLED in a web of lies. The price paid for that freedom was great. Take up His YOKE and follow Him... the giver of our freedom, for His yoke is easy and His burden is light. Stand fast!
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Grace... Isn't it Amazing?!
John 1:16-17
And of His fullness, we have all received, and grace for grace. For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
"Of His fullness..." He held nothing back. "We have all received..." He gives each of us a free gift whether or not we choose to accept it. "Grace for grace..." Grace x 2. Grace doubled. Grace upon grace.
God's grace... many have written about it, talked about it, sung about it, but few understand it or accept it. In a world where we have learned that nothing is free, grace is a difficult concept for some of us. Grace cannot be earned. It does not evolve over time. It cannot be purchased. Grace is God's favor upon us, undeserved, but freely given. Undeserved because grace is expressed to sinful mankind apart from any human works of worth. Freely given by God through His one and only Son Jesus Christ, who bore the weight of the world's sins by dying on the cross. "Grace and truth" came to us through Jesus, and at what an amazing cost it came! No cost to us; for us, it is free, but oh how Jesus paid the cost!
As per the old hymn:
Jesus paid it all!
All to Him I owe!
Sin had left a crimson stain;
He washed it white as snow.
Oh, Lord, thank You for Your amazing grace!
And of His fullness, we have all received, and grace for grace. For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
"Of His fullness..." He held nothing back. "We have all received..." He gives each of us a free gift whether or not we choose to accept it. "Grace for grace..." Grace x 2. Grace doubled. Grace upon grace.
God's grace... many have written about it, talked about it, sung about it, but few understand it or accept it. In a world where we have learned that nothing is free, grace is a difficult concept for some of us. Grace cannot be earned. It does not evolve over time. It cannot be purchased. Grace is God's favor upon us, undeserved, but freely given. Undeserved because grace is expressed to sinful mankind apart from any human works of worth. Freely given by God through His one and only Son Jesus Christ, who bore the weight of the world's sins by dying on the cross. "Grace and truth" came to us through Jesus, and at what an amazing cost it came! No cost to us; for us, it is free, but oh how Jesus paid the cost!
As per the old hymn:
Jesus paid it all!
All to Him I owe!
Sin had left a crimson stain;
He washed it white as snow.
Oh, Lord, thank You for Your amazing grace!
Monday, June 28, 2010
His Thoughts, His Ways
Isaiah 55:8-9
"For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways," declares the LORD. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts."
When faced with what seems like an unbearable trial, as humans, often we begin to question why God would allow something like this to happen to us. We begin to think that he has forgotten about us, forsaken us. The problem with this type of thinking is that God is not like us in all ways. Yes, we were created in His image, but He sees the big picture of our lives and all the lives ours are intertwined with. We don't think like Him; we don't see the end of the trial like He does and all the good that comes with it.
We cannot even begin to fathom His ways. He sees all, knows all, is all. Our job is to simply trust Him. He will bring you through whatever trial you are facing, and you can trust that no matter how difficult life may seem, He is there right beside you, holding your hand. He wishes that He could make your pain disappear, but He knows if He does, His desired outcome will not take place. My friend, allow God to use your trials for good. He's waiting for you to trust Him.
"For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways," declares the LORD. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts."
When faced with what seems like an unbearable trial, as humans, often we begin to question why God would allow something like this to happen to us. We begin to think that he has forgotten about us, forsaken us. The problem with this type of thinking is that God is not like us in all ways. Yes, we were created in His image, but He sees the big picture of our lives and all the lives ours are intertwined with. We don't think like Him; we don't see the end of the trial like He does and all the good that comes with it.
We cannot even begin to fathom His ways. He sees all, knows all, is all. Our job is to simply trust Him. He will bring you through whatever trial you are facing, and you can trust that no matter how difficult life may seem, He is there right beside you, holding your hand. He wishes that He could make your pain disappear, but He knows if He does, His desired outcome will not take place. My friend, allow God to use your trials for good. He's waiting for you to trust Him.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Allow Others to Pray for You
James 5:16
Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.
It has always been difficult for me to ask someone to pray for me. I would internally question if the request was too small or too frivalent or else doing so would make me feel weak and vulnerable. But I can testify to you today that there is power in humbling yourself and asking others to pray for you. God will honor this humble act.
Not only does requesting prayer from others help you, it gives your friends an opportunity to lift you up up and see God working in your life. As someone who has prayed for others and seen the result of God's hand in their lives, it gives me great joy to see prayers answered and strengthens my walk with Him, as well.
So, if there's a prayer request God is placing on your heart to share with others, do it today. He will honor your humility and bless the other person in return.
Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.
It has always been difficult for me to ask someone to pray for me. I would internally question if the request was too small or too frivalent or else doing so would make me feel weak and vulnerable. But I can testify to you today that there is power in humbling yourself and asking others to pray for you. God will honor this humble act.
Not only does requesting prayer from others help you, it gives your friends an opportunity to lift you up up and see God working in your life. As someone who has prayed for others and seen the result of God's hand in their lives, it gives me great joy to see prayers answered and strengthens my walk with Him, as well.
So, if there's a prayer request God is placing on your heart to share with others, do it today. He will honor your humility and bless the other person in return.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Act, Love, Walk
Micah 6:8
He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.
We live in a world full of requirements. We are required to stay within the speed limit. We are required to go to work in order to pay the bills. We are required to keep our dog on a leash, etc. etc. But God's requirements are few and simple (albeit not always easy), but He doesn't give them to us without informing us first of what is good.
As this verse indicates, God requires us to act justly. Not just to think justly, but to act. Sometimes we see things that are unjust, and we sit back and think how wrong it is, but God wants us to apply His Word to our lives, acting on our convictions of what He has shown us to be good.
God requires us to love mercy. We serve a God who delights in mercy. He has demonstrated His mercy time and time again in His Word, ultimately, with mercifully sacrificing His precious Son's blood for our sins, sins that deserve great penalty. Instead, Jesus paid the penalty.
Finally, God requires us to walk humbly with Him. Our world preaches pride and putting self first. For many of us, we have to consciously choose first to be humble and then to practice humility. It doesn't always feel natural to practice humility, but God sent us Jesus to show us a perfect example of living humbly.
Lord, today, I confess to You that I have not met Your requirements. I often fail to stand up for what it just, and I do not always show mercy to others as You have led by example through Your Son Jesus Christ. But, I pray that You will continue to teach me to walk humbly alongside You, drawing closer to You and learning Your ways each and every day. Amen.
He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.
We live in a world full of requirements. We are required to stay within the speed limit. We are required to go to work in order to pay the bills. We are required to keep our dog on a leash, etc. etc. But God's requirements are few and simple (albeit not always easy), but He doesn't give them to us without informing us first of what is good.
As this verse indicates, God requires us to act justly. Not just to think justly, but to act. Sometimes we see things that are unjust, and we sit back and think how wrong it is, but God wants us to apply His Word to our lives, acting on our convictions of what He has shown us to be good.
God requires us to love mercy. We serve a God who delights in mercy. He has demonstrated His mercy time and time again in His Word, ultimately, with mercifully sacrificing His precious Son's blood for our sins, sins that deserve great penalty. Instead, Jesus paid the penalty.
Finally, God requires us to walk humbly with Him. Our world preaches pride and putting self first. For many of us, we have to consciously choose first to be humble and then to practice humility. It doesn't always feel natural to practice humility, but God sent us Jesus to show us a perfect example of living humbly.
Lord, today, I confess to You that I have not met Your requirements. I often fail to stand up for what it just, and I do not always show mercy to others as You have led by example through Your Son Jesus Christ. But, I pray that You will continue to teach me to walk humbly alongside You, drawing closer to You and learning Your ways each and every day. Amen.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Be Doers
James 1:22
But be doers of the Word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.
The Bible is filled with instructions on how to lead a godly life. We can read it, understand it, and know it to be true, but unless we apply it, really live it out, it is useless. If we hear the Word but don't apply it, we are truly deceiving ourselves if we believe ourselves to be good and righteous. For hearing only does not make us righteous. Anyone can read the Word, but that act alone does not fill us. Only when we act on God's Word can we begin to draw closer to Him. Today, I pray that I will live out God's Word and that He will be glorified in my walk with Him.
But be doers of the Word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.
The Bible is filled with instructions on how to lead a godly life. We can read it, understand it, and know it to be true, but unless we apply it, really live it out, it is useless. If we hear the Word but don't apply it, we are truly deceiving ourselves if we believe ourselves to be good and righteous. For hearing only does not make us righteous. Anyone can read the Word, but that act alone does not fill us. Only when we act on God's Word can we begin to draw closer to Him. Today, I pray that I will live out God's Word and that He will be glorified in my walk with Him.
Friday, June 11, 2010
Count it ALL Joy!
James 1:3-4
My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.
I have faced trials in my life. Do I count them as events that led to joy? Hmmm... maybe some of them, but none of them I counted as anything but heartache while enduring them.
It goes against human nature to be joyful during a trial. We're so easily led by emotions. But according to Scripture, we can make a conscious decision as to how we react to our trials. But... it has to be intentional. It's not easy, and it may feel completely unnatural, but if we count it all joy, God will not only deliver us, but reward us with His blessings. I pray today that God will allow me to treasure my trials in my heart, so that He can make His work perfect, whole, and complete in my life.
My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.
I have faced trials in my life. Do I count them as events that led to joy? Hmmm... maybe some of them, but none of them I counted as anything but heartache while enduring them.
It goes against human nature to be joyful during a trial. We're so easily led by emotions. But according to Scripture, we can make a conscious decision as to how we react to our trials. But... it has to be intentional. It's not easy, and it may feel completely unnatural, but if we count it all joy, God will not only deliver us, but reward us with His blessings. I pray today that God will allow me to treasure my trials in my heart, so that He can make His work perfect, whole, and complete in my life.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Walk Worthy!
Ephesians 4:1-3
Walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Dear Lord, Thank You for calling me to be Your child. Thank you for allowing me to be a representative of Christ while I live on this earth. Please help me to walk worthy of this calling today. Help me to be humble, gentle, and patient with all those I come in contact with today. Allow me to bear someone's burden today in love so that they may see Your mighty hand. Help me strive towards unity within my own self, my family, and the family of God, so that we may be bonded together in peace. Amen.
Walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Dear Lord, Thank You for calling me to be Your child. Thank you for allowing me to be a representative of Christ while I live on this earth. Please help me to walk worthy of this calling today. Help me to be humble, gentle, and patient with all those I come in contact with today. Allow me to bear someone's burden today in love so that they may see Your mighty hand. Help me strive towards unity within my own self, my family, and the family of God, so that we may be bonded together in peace. Amen.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
How Precious are His Thoughts
Psalm 139:17-18
How precious are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they would be more in number than the sand...
God's thoughts are about me! In my lifetime, God will have thought about me billions of times! Who am I that He would choose to spend so much time thinking of me?! I am His precious child, the one He sent His only Son to this earth to die for. Yes, Jesus was thinking of me as He was beaten, bruised, struck, whipped, pierced, and nailed to the cross. With that, He carried my sins away... yes, He was thinking of me! Lord, thank You so much for loving me, a sinner unworthy of Your grace. Thank You for forever keeping me in Your precious thoughts!
How precious are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they would be more in number than the sand...
God's thoughts are about me! In my lifetime, God will have thought about me billions of times! Who am I that He would choose to spend so much time thinking of me?! I am His precious child, the one He sent His only Son to this earth to die for. Yes, Jesus was thinking of me as He was beaten, bruised, struck, whipped, pierced, and nailed to the cross. With that, He carried my sins away... yes, He was thinking of me! Lord, thank You so much for loving me, a sinner unworthy of Your grace. Thank You for forever keeping me in Your precious thoughts!
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Where Can I Go?
Psalm 139:7
Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence?
God is in all places at all times. It is not possible to go where He is not. He is with me during the valleys of my life, my trials, frustrations, sadness, loneliness. He is with me during the mountaintop moments of my life and every place in between. His Spirit remains in me, resides within me. He is there always and will never leave me. Thank You, Lord, for Your never-ending presence!
Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence?
God is in all places at all times. It is not possible to go where He is not. He is with me during the valleys of my life, my trials, frustrations, sadness, loneliness. He is with me during the mountaintop moments of my life and every place in between. His Spirit remains in me, resides within me. He is there always and will never leave me. Thank You, Lord, for Your never-ending presence!
Sunday, June 6, 2010
A Reflection of Glory
Psalm 19:1
The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands.
If the job of the heavens is to declare God's glory and the job of the skies is to proclaim the work of His hands, what is it my job to do? I believe the answer comes in this next verse:
2 Corinthians 3:18
And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
So we are to simply reflect God's glory! What a privilege that He chose us for that job! Lord, please help me to reflect Your light today. Enable me to shine Your glory to those I come in contact with today so that only You are seen. Amen
The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands.
If the job of the heavens is to declare God's glory and the job of the skies is to proclaim the work of His hands, what is it my job to do? I believe the answer comes in this next verse:
2 Corinthians 3:18
And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
So we are to simply reflect God's glory! What a privilege that He chose us for that job! Lord, please help me to reflect Your light today. Enable me to shine Your glory to those I come in contact with today so that only You are seen. Amen
Friday, June 4, 2010
Consider it Joy
James 1:2
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds.
I have to admit that it always troubles me a little when God puts this verse in my path. I secretly think to myself, is God showing me this verse because He's about to bring a trial my way? So, as you can imagine, I tend to avoid it on most occasions.
But God did bring me this verse this morning for me to at least contemplate it. When I close my eyes and visualize what it means to me, I can picture myself literally faced with many trials in front of me, to the left and to the right. I immediately become frightened and despaired as I look around me. But before fear can engulf me, the Lord Jesus Christ steps up beside me and drapes His loving arm across my shoulders. As I feel His presence and gaze into His eyes, a sense of total joy comes over me as my view of the trials ahead of me transforms from the fear that could've overpowered me. With the Lord at my side, I can see the trials as learning experiences that allow me to grow in my faith, strengthen my character, and share my testimony with others. At this, I can only smile and perhaps even laugh outloud with great pleasure knowing that the outcome will prove worthy of the trial it was born out of.
My prayer today is that I would consider it pure joy when faced with the trials the Lord brings my way, to consider each trial as one step closer to pure peace and joy.
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds.
I have to admit that it always troubles me a little when God puts this verse in my path. I secretly think to myself, is God showing me this verse because He's about to bring a trial my way? So, as you can imagine, I tend to avoid it on most occasions.
But God did bring me this verse this morning for me to at least contemplate it. When I close my eyes and visualize what it means to me, I can picture myself literally faced with many trials in front of me, to the left and to the right. I immediately become frightened and despaired as I look around me. But before fear can engulf me, the Lord Jesus Christ steps up beside me and drapes His loving arm across my shoulders. As I feel His presence and gaze into His eyes, a sense of total joy comes over me as my view of the trials ahead of me transforms from the fear that could've overpowered me. With the Lord at my side, I can see the trials as learning experiences that allow me to grow in my faith, strengthen my character, and share my testimony with others. At this, I can only smile and perhaps even laugh outloud with great pleasure knowing that the outcome will prove worthy of the trial it was born out of.
My prayer today is that I would consider it pure joy when faced with the trials the Lord brings my way, to consider each trial as one step closer to pure peace and joy.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
His Way is Perfect
Psalm 18:30
As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the LORD is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in Him.
I just want to share a very simple message this morning. As for God, His way is perfect. His way is perfect. Not our way or the way that we think His way should be. His way is perfect. He sees the big picture. He knows the ending to our story, and His way is perfect. His way will lead us where He desires for us to go. His way is perfect.
As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the LORD is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in Him.
I just want to share a very simple message this morning. As for God, His way is perfect. His way is perfect. Not our way or the way that we think His way should be. His way is perfect. He sees the big picture. He knows the ending to our story, and His way is perfect. His way will lead us where He desires for us to go. His way is perfect.
Monday, May 31, 2010
The Mystery of Peace
2 Thessalonians 3:16
Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.
Peace is a mysterious thing. Sometimes, we can seek out peace with all our might, and that's exactly when it doesn't appear. If our minds are in turmoil, our lives spinning round and round but going nowhere, how can God provide His perfect peace when our lives have no place for it?
Peace is something you have to achieve by doing nothing and letting God do all. Ask God for peace today. Seek His face, His will for your life, His direction. Pray and let God do some of the talking. Meditate on a favorite verse, listen to an old hymn, or just simply spend time outdoors contemplating His glorious creation. If you seek Him, you will find Him. He's right there waiting.
Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.
Peace is a mysterious thing. Sometimes, we can seek out peace with all our might, and that's exactly when it doesn't appear. If our minds are in turmoil, our lives spinning round and round but going nowhere, how can God provide His perfect peace when our lives have no place for it?
Peace is something you have to achieve by doing nothing and letting God do all. Ask God for peace today. Seek His face, His will for your life, His direction. Pray and let God do some of the talking. Meditate on a favorite verse, listen to an old hymn, or just simply spend time outdoors contemplating His glorious creation. If you seek Him, you will find Him. He's right there waiting.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Unapproachable Light?
1 Timothy 6:15-16
...the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light, whom no one has seen or can see. To Him be honor and might forever. Amen.
God is many things to us. He is our Father, Friend, Comforter, Creator, Protector, Salvation. This list could go on and on and on. However, we must not forget that God is far superior to anything that we could call Him, feel about Him, or declare Him to be.
When I first read this verse, I wondered, "Why would this verse describe God as living in unapproachable light?" With all that we know about God, isn't He approachable? Kind? Loving? Jesus said in Matthew 19:14, "Let the little children come to me." However, as we see in Exodus 3, God appears to Moses as a burning bush. Moses, in his curiosity, draws closer to the bush to see why it had not been consumed with fire. God calls his name, and Moses draws near. Before getting too close to be harmed by the flames, God stops Moses and says, ""Do not come any closer. Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground."
I believe God draws us near to Him, so that He can draw near to us. In His lovingkindness, He steps out of His unapproachable light, which is much too powerful, much too bright, and much too holy for us to approach. Therefore, He, in all His grace and mercy, approaches us. The God who created the universe cares about me and loves me enough to step out of His holiness and glory to approach me. That should give you something to smile about today!
...the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light, whom no one has seen or can see. To Him be honor and might forever. Amen.
God is many things to us. He is our Father, Friend, Comforter, Creator, Protector, Salvation. This list could go on and on and on. However, we must not forget that God is far superior to anything that we could call Him, feel about Him, or declare Him to be.
When I first read this verse, I wondered, "Why would this verse describe God as living in unapproachable light?" With all that we know about God, isn't He approachable? Kind? Loving? Jesus said in Matthew 19:14, "Let the little children come to me." However, as we see in Exodus 3, God appears to Moses as a burning bush. Moses, in his curiosity, draws closer to the bush to see why it had not been consumed with fire. God calls his name, and Moses draws near. Before getting too close to be harmed by the flames, God stops Moses and says, ""Do not come any closer. Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground."
I believe God draws us near to Him, so that He can draw near to us. In His lovingkindness, He steps out of His unapproachable light, which is much too powerful, much too bright, and much too holy for us to approach. Therefore, He, in all His grace and mercy, approaches us. The God who created the universe cares about me and loves me enough to step out of His holiness and glory to approach me. That should give you something to smile about today!
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Take Heart!
John 16:33:
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
Troubles, trials, temptations. In this world, we will have them. No ifs, ands, or buts about it. Some of us have had troubles that, at the time, may have seemed overwhelming and all-consuming. Maybe some of us are going through a trial right now that you don't see how you will ever make it through. Sometimes, temptations seem too great to say no to. Without a relationship with the Lord, the troubles of this world take us to a dark place, a place of no joy, only conflict, worries, and sadness. Without a relationship with the Lord, the troubles of this world will conquer us.
"But take heart!" Jesus says. "I have overcome the world." In other words, don't let the trappings of this world take away your joy. That is what brings about pleasure for the enemy. Jesus says to take heart. Take hold of His heart today. Spend time with Him. Read His Word. Know that He has overcome the world, and He can help you overcome your troubles.
"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
Troubles, trials, temptations. In this world, we will have them. No ifs, ands, or buts about it. Some of us have had troubles that, at the time, may have seemed overwhelming and all-consuming. Maybe some of us are going through a trial right now that you don't see how you will ever make it through. Sometimes, temptations seem too great to say no to. Without a relationship with the Lord, the troubles of this world take us to a dark place, a place of no joy, only conflict, worries, and sadness. Without a relationship with the Lord, the troubles of this world will conquer us.
"But take heart!" Jesus says. "I have overcome the world." In other words, don't let the trappings of this world take away your joy. That is what brings about pleasure for the enemy. Jesus says to take heart. Take hold of His heart today. Spend time with Him. Read His Word. Know that He has overcome the world, and He can help you overcome your troubles.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
He Sings!
Zephaniah 3:17:
The LORD your God is with you,
He is mighty to save.
He will take great delight in you,
He will quiet you with His love,
He will rejoice over you with singing."
Mighty, powerful, strong, great, exceptional, immense, enormous, tremendous, extraordinary. There is no one like Him! He is our Savior, Deliverer, Conqueror, Defender, Protector, Rescuer! And yet, He takes great delight in His children, cares, comforts, quiets us with His love. And beyond all this, He rejoices over us with singing. With singing!!!
Can you imagine the Lord singing? And not just singing, but rejoicefully singing?! I've never really pictured God singing, but of course, it would make complete sense. He created both angels and humans with the ability to sing, even animals have some capability to sing in their own way. Why wouldn't He create Himself with an abiltiy to sing? And not just that, but a desire to sing... OVER YOU!!!
Will you listen today for His singing over you?
The LORD your God is with you,
He is mighty to save.
He will take great delight in you,
He will quiet you with His love,
He will rejoice over you with singing."
Mighty, powerful, strong, great, exceptional, immense, enormous, tremendous, extraordinary. There is no one like Him! He is our Savior, Deliverer, Conqueror, Defender, Protector, Rescuer! And yet, He takes great delight in His children, cares, comforts, quiets us with His love. And beyond all this, He rejoices over us with singing. With singing!!!
Can you imagine the Lord singing? And not just singing, but rejoicefully singing?! I've never really pictured God singing, but of course, it would make complete sense. He created both angels and humans with the ability to sing, even animals have some capability to sing in their own way. Why wouldn't He create Himself with an abiltiy to sing? And not just that, but a desire to sing... OVER YOU!!!
Will you listen today for His singing over you?
Monday, May 24, 2010
In the Garden
Genesis 2:8
Now the LORD God had planted a garden in the east, in Eden; and there he put the man he had formed.
Man's first home was in a garden. We can imagine how beautiful the Garden of Eden was... full of green leafy trees, lush shrubbery, colorful vegetation, sparkling streams, and amazing wildlife. It was God's chosen environment for His first human creation, a tiny glimpse of heaven, perhaps. But the best part of it was that God met with his people there, walked side by side with them.
I am reminded of the very first song I sang in church when I was seven years old.
In the Garden
I come to the garden alone
While the dew is still on the roses
And the voice I hear falling on my ear
The Son of God discloses.
And He walks with me, and He talks with me,
And He tells me I am His own;
And the joy we share as we tarry there,
None other has ever known.
You may not have a beautiful garden to meet with God, but hopefully, you have a special place to meet with Him... even if it is just in the garden of your heart, where He resides and longs to meet with you.
Now the LORD God had planted a garden in the east, in Eden; and there he put the man he had formed.
Man's first home was in a garden. We can imagine how beautiful the Garden of Eden was... full of green leafy trees, lush shrubbery, colorful vegetation, sparkling streams, and amazing wildlife. It was God's chosen environment for His first human creation, a tiny glimpse of heaven, perhaps. But the best part of it was that God met with his people there, walked side by side with them.
I am reminded of the very first song I sang in church when I was seven years old.
In the Garden
I come to the garden alone
While the dew is still on the roses
And the voice I hear falling on my ear
The Son of God discloses.
And He walks with me, and He talks with me,
And He tells me I am His own;
And the joy we share as we tarry there,
None other has ever known.
You may not have a beautiful garden to meet with God, but hopefully, you have a special place to meet with Him... even if it is just in the garden of your heart, where He resides and longs to meet with you.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
The Key to Treasure
Isaiah 33:6:
He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the LORD is the key to this treasure.
A devotional I was reading this morning led me to this verse. I read about God's many treasures on earth including the sun shining, flowers blooming, children laughing, birds chirping,... you get the idea. But it also suggested that God's treasures also come in the form of trials and tribulations. Hmmm... that's always a hard one for me. Treasures are supposed to be good things, happy things, perhaps even blessings, right? However, if we allow God to use our trials for good, they are indeed treasures... treasures designed by our heavenly Father to unlock us from the chains that bind us. What chains could God use today to turn into treasures? Can you rightfully sing the words to this song?
My chains are gone
I've been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me...
Or how about this one?
Chains are broken
Shame has fallen
All my sins are gone
I hope you have a treasure-filled day!
He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the LORD is the key to this treasure.
A devotional I was reading this morning led me to this verse. I read about God's many treasures on earth including the sun shining, flowers blooming, children laughing, birds chirping,... you get the idea. But it also suggested that God's treasures also come in the form of trials and tribulations. Hmmm... that's always a hard one for me. Treasures are supposed to be good things, happy things, perhaps even blessings, right? However, if we allow God to use our trials for good, they are indeed treasures... treasures designed by our heavenly Father to unlock us from the chains that bind us. What chains could God use today to turn into treasures? Can you rightfully sing the words to this song?
My chains are gone
I've been set free
My God, my Savior has ransomed me...
Or how about this one?
Chains are broken
Shame has fallen
All my sins are gone
I hope you have a treasure-filled day!
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Fear or Faith... Which Will it Be?
Philippians 4:6-7:
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.
On Christmas evening of 2009, my family and I were driving home from spending Christmas with relatives. Our vehicle was loaded up with gifts, most of which belonged to my daughter. It was late, and we'd had a full day, so I decided to turn on some soothing music. Camryn kept telling me, however, that the music was making her sad, and she begged me to turn it off. I refused, thinking that her request was nonsense. What did she have to be sad about with a backseat full of Christmas gifts?
She proceeded at that point to have what I now recognize as an anxiety attack, complete with tears, panic, and shortness of breath. It didn't make sense that this was happening as I had never experienced this before. However, God immediately put the above Scripture on my heart. He gave me the words to share with her to get her through her attack. While my immediate reaction was anger and confusion, God quickly gave me a change of attitude to one of understanding and peace to help my child out of a difficult moment. God used me to help her understand that when faced with anxiety, you have a choice to make... fear or faith, focus on the problem or focus on prayer.
By the time our conversation was over, Camryn had a total sense of peace and was even laughing and being her cheerful self. As a result, I've been able to take this Scripture to heart, applying it to my own life in many situations. Camryn has since had a handful of other anxiety attacks, and she immediately recognizes the need for prayer to get her through them. She knows when one is approaching and tells me so that we can pray together. One one recent occasion, I wasn't available to pray with her. Instead, she wrote a prayer to God and stuck it under her pillow.
I thank God that He is using her fear to bring about faith and trust in Him!
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.
On Christmas evening of 2009, my family and I were driving home from spending Christmas with relatives. Our vehicle was loaded up with gifts, most of which belonged to my daughter. It was late, and we'd had a full day, so I decided to turn on some soothing music. Camryn kept telling me, however, that the music was making her sad, and she begged me to turn it off. I refused, thinking that her request was nonsense. What did she have to be sad about with a backseat full of Christmas gifts?
She proceeded at that point to have what I now recognize as an anxiety attack, complete with tears, panic, and shortness of breath. It didn't make sense that this was happening as I had never experienced this before. However, God immediately put the above Scripture on my heart. He gave me the words to share with her to get her through her attack. While my immediate reaction was anger and confusion, God quickly gave me a change of attitude to one of understanding and peace to help my child out of a difficult moment. God used me to help her understand that when faced with anxiety, you have a choice to make... fear or faith, focus on the problem or focus on prayer.
By the time our conversation was over, Camryn had a total sense of peace and was even laughing and being her cheerful self. As a result, I've been able to take this Scripture to heart, applying it to my own life in many situations. Camryn has since had a handful of other anxiety attacks, and she immediately recognizes the need for prayer to get her through them. She knows when one is approaching and tells me so that we can pray together. One one recent occasion, I wasn't available to pray with her. Instead, she wrote a prayer to God and stuck it under her pillow.
I thank God that He is using her fear to bring about faith and trust in Him!
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