It's been a tough week. Someone put it right when they said to me Wednesday night ... "You're all poured out." All poured out. Sometimes it feels that way, doesn't it? I truly believe I have poured everything out before God this week - sacrificed it all - anything that is of any worth, that is.
All I know (and what I am totally counting on) is that the Lord is worthy of the longings of our hearts. When we feel completely drained and emptied out, I think we are best to be still before our God. He will come to our aid, give us His instruction, and show us which way to go. In the mean time, we can take refuge in Him.
"The way of the Lord is a refuge for the righteous." (Proverbs 10:29) ... Thank You Lord, for that.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Thursday, December 25, 2008
The Hand of God in our Circumstances
The Lord woke me up at 6am this Christmas morning to give me the following word. I pray He will use it to remind you that His hand is most definitely moving amidst your circumstances. As we embark upon a brand new year, I desire so much to see the hand of God at work in my circumstances - I desperately need to feel His presence. And I believe you do too ...
Context: 1 Kings 17:1-24
In 1 Kings 17: 2-4, Elijah is called by God to leave where he's at: "Then the word of the LORD came to Elijah: 'Leave here, turn eastward and hide in the Kerith Ravine, east of the Jordan. You will drink from the brook, and I have ordered the ravens to feed you there.'"
Point #1: Where He calls, He will also provide.
He gives us a vision. In 1 Kings 17:2-4, noted above, God calls Elijah to a specific task and He gives him just enough information to let him know that He is handling the details. He does not map out the entire journey or purpose for Elijah, but He does provide him with enough information to step out in faith.
He gives us the essentials. When he calls us to something specific, God already has every essential covered. He knows what we need in advance, even before we do. It is our responsibility to trust Him, to be obedient, and to walk by faith.
Point #2: Where we see nothings, He sees somethings.
He works out of the unlikely. In 1 Kings 17:7-11, God calls Elijah to go into town and there, he will meet a widow who will provide him with food. Elijah obeys the orders only to hear the following response from the woman: "As surely as the LORD your God lives ... I don't have any bread - only a handful of flour in a jar and a little oil in a jug ..." (1 Kings 17:12a). She has a bunch of nothings to share with Elijah. Our imperfections, insecurities, failures, etc. - These all fall into this nothings category. These things trap us into thinking that God could never use us, or use our circumstances, for His purposes.
He works our fear into faith. What does God do with the nearly empty cistern of flour and jug of oil? "For the jar of flour was not used up and the jug of oil did not run dry, in keeping with the word of the LORD spoken by Elijah" (1 Kings 17:16). The flour and the oil went from nearly empty, to an overflowing excess - How? Because our God of great reversals got a hold of it. Those things in our lives that fear us - that we think that God could never use in a million years - are the exact things He will use if we allow Him. Just as he multiplied her flour and oil, when He has a plan to fulfill, He will do what He has to in order to get it accomplished. He wants to take our nothings ... and turn them into somethings.
Point #3: Where He positions, He also purposes.
He assures His plan through opportunity. God placed Elijah in this widow's life for a purpose. 1 Kings 17:17-18 shares with us that the woman's son becomes very sick and dies. The woman calls to Elijah in despair. 1 Kings 17:21 says, "Then [Elijah] stretched himself out on the boy three times and cried to the LORD, 'O Lord my God, let this boy's life return to him!'" Don't you think it would have made more logical sense for God to take Elijah to someones home who would have already had enough flour and oil for food - who would not have been starving to death? Maybe someone who could have offered a bit more of a hospitable environment? Not when God wanted to line an opportunity up. He knows when someone needs to experience His touch. He does not position us in certain circumstances by chance - He has great purpose in His positioning.
He assures His plan through His presence. We know when God is at work, when no other explanation makes sense. Those things in our lives that happen that we just "don't get," take another look, sister - That is the hand of God. You probably know how the story in 1 Kings 17 ends: "The LORD heard Elijah's cry, and the boy's life returned to him" (1 Kings 17:22). The woman now knows that God only could have raised her son back to life: "Now I know that you are a man of God and that the word of the LORD from your mouth is the truth." God showed up. We know when we are accomplishing His purposes, when He shows up - When we experience His presence, and know in our heart of hearts that we could not have had that kind of success on our own.
Lord, Please make Yourself known in our current circumstances. We trust You to lead the way. Help us to step out in faith, and do what You have called us to do, knowing that You will provide the details. We give you our nothings, and ask that You will make them somethings. Help us to recognize that we are positioned in specific places, in certain circumstances, not by chance, but by purpose. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Context: 1 Kings 17:1-24
In 1 Kings 17: 2-4, Elijah is called by God to leave where he's at: "Then the word of the LORD came to Elijah: 'Leave here, turn eastward and hide in the Kerith Ravine, east of the Jordan. You will drink from the brook, and I have ordered the ravens to feed you there.'"
Point #1: Where He calls, He will also provide.
He gives us a vision. In 1 Kings 17:2-4, noted above, God calls Elijah to a specific task and He gives him just enough information to let him know that He is handling the details. He does not map out the entire journey or purpose for Elijah, but He does provide him with enough information to step out in faith.
He gives us the essentials. When he calls us to something specific, God already has every essential covered. He knows what we need in advance, even before we do. It is our responsibility to trust Him, to be obedient, and to walk by faith.
Point #2: Where we see nothings, He sees somethings.
He works out of the unlikely. In 1 Kings 17:7-11, God calls Elijah to go into town and there, he will meet a widow who will provide him with food. Elijah obeys the orders only to hear the following response from the woman: "As surely as the LORD your God lives ... I don't have any bread - only a handful of flour in a jar and a little oil in a jug ..." (1 Kings 17:12a). She has a bunch of nothings to share with Elijah. Our imperfections, insecurities, failures, etc. - These all fall into this nothings category. These things trap us into thinking that God could never use us, or use our circumstances, for His purposes.
He works our fear into faith. What does God do with the nearly empty cistern of flour and jug of oil? "For the jar of flour was not used up and the jug of oil did not run dry, in keeping with the word of the LORD spoken by Elijah" (1 Kings 17:16). The flour and the oil went from nearly empty, to an overflowing excess - How? Because our God of great reversals got a hold of it. Those things in our lives that fear us - that we think that God could never use in a million years - are the exact things He will use if we allow Him. Just as he multiplied her flour and oil, when He has a plan to fulfill, He will do what He has to in order to get it accomplished. He wants to take our nothings ... and turn them into somethings.
Point #3: Where He positions, He also purposes.
He assures His plan through opportunity. God placed Elijah in this widow's life for a purpose. 1 Kings 17:17-18 shares with us that the woman's son becomes very sick and dies. The woman calls to Elijah in despair. 1 Kings 17:21 says, "Then [Elijah] stretched himself out on the boy three times and cried to the LORD, 'O Lord my God, let this boy's life return to him!'" Don't you think it would have made more logical sense for God to take Elijah to someones home who would have already had enough flour and oil for food - who would not have been starving to death? Maybe someone who could have offered a bit more of a hospitable environment? Not when God wanted to line an opportunity up. He knows when someone needs to experience His touch. He does not position us in certain circumstances by chance - He has great purpose in His positioning.
He assures His plan through His presence. We know when God is at work, when no other explanation makes sense. Those things in our lives that happen that we just "don't get," take another look, sister - That is the hand of God. You probably know how the story in 1 Kings 17 ends: "The LORD heard Elijah's cry, and the boy's life returned to him" (1 Kings 17:22). The woman now knows that God only could have raised her son back to life: "Now I know that you are a man of God and that the word of the LORD from your mouth is the truth." God showed up. We know when we are accomplishing His purposes, when He shows up - When we experience His presence, and know in our heart of hearts that we could not have had that kind of success on our own.
Lord, Please make Yourself known in our current circumstances. We trust You to lead the way. Help us to step out in faith, and do what You have called us to do, knowing that You will provide the details. We give you our nothings, and ask that You will make them somethings. Help us to recognize that we are positioned in specific places, in certain circumstances, not by chance, but by purpose. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Merry Christmas
"For unto us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David's throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this." (Isaiah 9:6-7)
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Joel 2:26
"You will have plenty to eat, until you are full, and you will praise the name of the LORD your God, who has worked wonders for you." (Joel 2:26a)
Thursday, December 18, 2008
"Seek Me"
I believe God spoke some words of Truth over me this evening while parked in front of my trusty coffee shop. I was sitting in my car listening to the remainder of a worship song on my new Hillsong London cd, and as always, I had a lot on my mind. I stared into the sky while listening to the words of this particular song, filled with the message of "God's peace," and I began asking Him some questions that have been frequenting my mind lately. He quietly yet profoundly spoke the words "Seek Me" over my wandering mind. Immediately, everything fell into perspective. I remembered why I am on this earth in the first place. My circumstances no longer looked and seemed so bleak - They were completely replaced with the vision of the Cross of Christ. Right then, I felt completely fulfilled and satisfied ... motivated to serve the One True Living God, Jesus Christ. My life again had substance, and I thought to myself ... "Yes, you know what? I think I may just be able to face another day after all. But, Lord ... Please don't let go of me. "
Do you ever have those days?
"And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. But seek His Kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well." (Luke 12:29-31)
Having a heart that is focused on Christ, does not simply nullify every single human desire we have. In fact, God knits each of us together with specific desires and purposes, which I do believe He intends to fulfill. Why do I believe that? Because our God is an intimate God who wants good things for His children. He "satisfies our desires with good things" (Psalm 103:5). Notice the Scripture does not say that He may satisfy our desires. It also does not say that He will satisfy our desires with mediocre things. And then there's the fact that "He fulfills the desires of those who fear Him" (Psalm 145:19), and "satisfies the desires of every living thing" (Psalm 145:16). Yes, my dears ... He most definitely wants to bring good to our lives.
I love thinking about the fact that we as children of God, have holy hearts. I do believe that God fills our holy hearts with holy desires, which our Holy God then calls into action and fulfills. And let me assure you - When God has raised a desire, especially in spiritual things, He will gratify it. Oh, I get so excited about this! Mainly because I have seen God transform the desires of my heart from a spiritual standpoint so many times. Every time more re-shaping occurs, my desires are made more like His. My holy heart is fashioned more and more to match His. Spurgeon says, "A holy heart only desires what a holy God can give." I don't know about you, but that takes some pressure off for me.
The next time you are overwhelmed with a desire of your heart, one that will ultimately bring honor and glory to the Lord - Confidently take that as a holy desire, as the Lord's desire. And believe that He will satisfy it. Oh, I just love this!
And praise God that He knows what we need, as Luke 12:29-31 (noted above) reminds us. Just seek Him .... It is then that you will truly be in tune with your holy heart, with the holy desires He has put there, and with the faith to believe Him to bring these things to pass.
I love you dearly. Thank you for believing and seeking God with me. May you find great purpose in the Cross of Christ today. In fact, may it overshadow everything else on your precious little mind.
Do you ever have those days?
"And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. But seek His Kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well." (Luke 12:29-31)
Having a heart that is focused on Christ, does not simply nullify every single human desire we have. In fact, God knits each of us together with specific desires and purposes, which I do believe He intends to fulfill. Why do I believe that? Because our God is an intimate God who wants good things for His children. He "satisfies our desires with good things" (Psalm 103:5). Notice the Scripture does not say that He may satisfy our desires. It also does not say that He will satisfy our desires with mediocre things. And then there's the fact that "He fulfills the desires of those who fear Him" (Psalm 145:19), and "satisfies the desires of every living thing" (Psalm 145:16). Yes, my dears ... He most definitely wants to bring good to our lives.
I love thinking about the fact that we as children of God, have holy hearts. I do believe that God fills our holy hearts with holy desires, which our Holy God then calls into action and fulfills. And let me assure you - When God has raised a desire, especially in spiritual things, He will gratify it. Oh, I get so excited about this! Mainly because I have seen God transform the desires of my heart from a spiritual standpoint so many times. Every time more re-shaping occurs, my desires are made more like His. My holy heart is fashioned more and more to match His. Spurgeon says, "A holy heart only desires what a holy God can give." I don't know about you, but that takes some pressure off for me.
The next time you are overwhelmed with a desire of your heart, one that will ultimately bring honor and glory to the Lord - Confidently take that as a holy desire, as the Lord's desire. And believe that He will satisfy it. Oh, I just love this!
And praise God that He knows what we need, as Luke 12:29-31 (noted above) reminds us. Just seek Him .... It is then that you will truly be in tune with your holy heart, with the holy desires He has put there, and with the faith to believe Him to bring these things to pass.
I love you dearly. Thank you for believing and seeking God with me. May you find great purpose in the Cross of Christ today. In fact, may it overshadow everything else on your precious little mind.
Celebrating the birth of our King
Undoubtedly, there are more than enough reasons to celebrate this Christmas. It's sometimes the little things that make me jump out of my skin with festive enthusiasm - taking a trip to Krispy Kreme on Peace St. followed by a tour of Christmas lights, staying up way too late watching Christmas movies (which I am doing right this moment), listening to Christmas music 24/7 if I feel like it, gift giving, wrapping pretty presents, participating in the last minute shopping frenzy, spending quality time with my family and friends, Christmas parties ... However, what I am most crazy over this year is anything but modest in terms of worth. In fact, tears well up in my eyes as I imagine spending my Christmas without it ...
I am honored this year to celebrate the birth of our King. To me, the first chapter of Luke paints the most beautiful picture of God's glory. I was recently led to this passage, and interestingly yet not at all accidentally, God has spoken very personally to me through this most special chapter in His Holy Word. I stand amazed at the truths I believe He intends all of us to grasp as we ever so intimately invite this wonderful story into our hearts and minds ... this Christmas.
In Luke chapter 1, Gabriel's visit to Mary creates in her an instant need to deeply believe in God's supreme plan. We know from her reaction that she is nothing short of perplexed and awestruck by the news he brings (v.34). Gabriel's words remind Mary, that yes, in human standards news such as this would be impossible, but with God "nothing is impossible" (v.37). Mary demonstrates the humility required in surrendering to God's service, as she says: "I am the Lord's servant ... May it be to me as You have said" (v.38). We fool ourselves if we believe that those words effortlessly slipped out of sweet Mary's mouth. An angel has just appeared to young Mary, told her that though a virgin, she was about to birth a child. Not only that, but that this child from her womb would be called the Son of the Most High. Wow. A lot of pressure, is an understatement.
Mary's acceptance of God's supreme plan came out of her belief in God's ability to work out the impossible. Mary did not surrender to His plan because she understood the impossible, but because she served the God of the impossible. Out of her belief and obedience, came the greatest gift this world has ever known. Breathtaking. Is there something in your life today, something in your life this Christmas, for which you are being challenged to believe God? Has God recently sent a messenger your way to remind you that "nothing is impossible with God" (v.37)? Are you walking in belief this Christmas, surrendering yourself to the God of the impossible?
Luke 1:35 reads: "The angel answered, The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God.' " To overshadow means to cast a shadow over, or to exceed in importance. At the point of the Holy Spirit's indwelling, Mary is transformed, overwhelmed, overshadowed. The power of God becomes exceedingly more important than anything of prior significance in her life.
I absolutely love the next few verses: Luke 1:29-45. Sweet Mary rushes to the home of her relative Elizabeth, whom Gabriel has told Mary will also bear a child (v.36). Luke 1:41 says, "When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit." Notice the 2 references to the Holy Spirit within the passage: The reference to Mary's indwelling of the Holy Spirit (v.35), and now Elizabeth's filling with the Holy Spirit (v.41). When we are passionate and intentional in our own intimate relationship with the Lord, the Holy Spirit's fire cannot help but blaze into the lives of others. Like the encounter between Mary and Elizabeth ... Our personal relationship with Christ is meant to vastly affect and encourage those who have been placed in our lives. Is your relationship with Christ at such high priority that the Holy Spirit ignited within your heart is drawing others closer in their walk with Christ?
Elizabeth's speaks words of truth and exaltation over Mary: "Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!" (v.45). I am totally in love with Mary's response: "My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for He has been mindful of the humble state of His servant. From now on all generations will call my blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me - holy is His name" (vs.46-49). We will be blessed when we come to the point of believing God to fulfill that which He has said will be accomplished. When He accomplishes that which we have entrusted to Him, we must like Mary, give Him the praise He deserves! Mary fully proclaimed the greatness of her God. She did not hesitate to declare the wonderful things God had done on her behalf! Are you prepared to give the Mighty One glory for the great things He has and will do in your life? Are you giving credit where it is due, or are you shying back from celebrations of praise?
This Christmas, may we make an intentional effort to praise the God of the impossible for using a simple girl to accomplish His Supreme Plan - He certainly IS worthy of our praise this Christmas. As we celebrate the birth of our King, may we reflect on the incredible privilege we have in knowing Him - He who when we were in great need, saved us (Psalm 116:6b). May you be incredibly blessed this year as you celebrate the birth ... of your King.
Happy Birthday Jesus!
I am honored this year to celebrate the birth of our King. To me, the first chapter of Luke paints the most beautiful picture of God's glory. I was recently led to this passage, and interestingly yet not at all accidentally, God has spoken very personally to me through this most special chapter in His Holy Word. I stand amazed at the truths I believe He intends all of us to grasp as we ever so intimately invite this wonderful story into our hearts and minds ... this Christmas.
In Luke chapter 1, Gabriel's visit to Mary creates in her an instant need to deeply believe in God's supreme plan. We know from her reaction that she is nothing short of perplexed and awestruck by the news he brings (v.34). Gabriel's words remind Mary, that yes, in human standards news such as this would be impossible, but with God "nothing is impossible" (v.37). Mary demonstrates the humility required in surrendering to God's service, as she says: "I am the Lord's servant ... May it be to me as You have said" (v.38). We fool ourselves if we believe that those words effortlessly slipped out of sweet Mary's mouth. An angel has just appeared to young Mary, told her that though a virgin, she was about to birth a child. Not only that, but that this child from her womb would be called the Son of the Most High. Wow. A lot of pressure, is an understatement.
Mary's acceptance of God's supreme plan came out of her belief in God's ability to work out the impossible. Mary did not surrender to His plan because she understood the impossible, but because she served the God of the impossible. Out of her belief and obedience, came the greatest gift this world has ever known. Breathtaking. Is there something in your life today, something in your life this Christmas, for which you are being challenged to believe God? Has God recently sent a messenger your way to remind you that "nothing is impossible with God" (v.37)? Are you walking in belief this Christmas, surrendering yourself to the God of the impossible?
Luke 1:35 reads: "The angel answered, The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God.' " To overshadow means to cast a shadow over, or to exceed in importance. At the point of the Holy Spirit's indwelling, Mary is transformed, overwhelmed, overshadowed. The power of God becomes exceedingly more important than anything of prior significance in her life.
I absolutely love the next few verses: Luke 1:29-45. Sweet Mary rushes to the home of her relative Elizabeth, whom Gabriel has told Mary will also bear a child (v.36). Luke 1:41 says, "When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit." Notice the 2 references to the Holy Spirit within the passage: The reference to Mary's indwelling of the Holy Spirit (v.35), and now Elizabeth's filling with the Holy Spirit (v.41). When we are passionate and intentional in our own intimate relationship with the Lord, the Holy Spirit's fire cannot help but blaze into the lives of others. Like the encounter between Mary and Elizabeth ... Our personal relationship with Christ is meant to vastly affect and encourage those who have been placed in our lives. Is your relationship with Christ at such high priority that the Holy Spirit ignited within your heart is drawing others closer in their walk with Christ?
Elizabeth's speaks words of truth and exaltation over Mary: "Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!" (v.45). I am totally in love with Mary's response: "My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for He has been mindful of the humble state of His servant. From now on all generations will call my blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me - holy is His name" (vs.46-49). We will be blessed when we come to the point of believing God to fulfill that which He has said will be accomplished. When He accomplishes that which we have entrusted to Him, we must like Mary, give Him the praise He deserves! Mary fully proclaimed the greatness of her God. She did not hesitate to declare the wonderful things God had done on her behalf! Are you prepared to give the Mighty One glory for the great things He has and will do in your life? Are you giving credit where it is due, or are you shying back from celebrations of praise?
This Christmas, may we make an intentional effort to praise the God of the impossible for using a simple girl to accomplish His Supreme Plan - He certainly IS worthy of our praise this Christmas. As we celebrate the birth of our King, may we reflect on the incredible privilege we have in knowing Him - He who when we were in great need, saved us (Psalm 116:6b). May you be incredibly blessed this year as you celebrate the birth ... of your King.
Happy Birthday Jesus!
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
His Masterpiece
"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." (Ephesians 2:10)
This is one of most favorite scriptures. It speaks of our individual callings while here on this earth. One of the things I am most passionate about, is that we each are equipped with specific gifts, given to us for the building up of the body of Christ. We truly are God's individual masterpieces. It is both our privilege and our duty, to serve the Lord wholeheartedly and humbly through our gifts. I love that we are each individually fashioned with specific callings.
I listened to a great message by Beth Moore this morning. For anyone who watches her on Life Today, it was last week's session. All about using the gifts God has given us. Highly recommend taking 20 minutes to listen/watch this message: "Fan Into Flame."
This is one of most favorite scriptures. It speaks of our individual callings while here on this earth. One of the things I am most passionate about, is that we each are equipped with specific gifts, given to us for the building up of the body of Christ. We truly are God's individual masterpieces. It is both our privilege and our duty, to serve the Lord wholeheartedly and humbly through our gifts. I love that we are each individually fashioned with specific callings.
I listened to a great message by Beth Moore this morning. For anyone who watches her on Life Today, it was last week's session. All about using the gifts God has given us. Highly recommend taking 20 minutes to listen/watch this message: "Fan Into Flame."
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Having a "He Will" Mindset
In the book of Habakkuk, the prophet Habakkuk is seeking God regarding the spiritual decline of the nation of Judah. He is troubled over the sin that is ruling over the nation. Out of his burden for his people stems a deep sense of urgency within him - He desperately wants to state his case before the Most High, and surrender his attention to hearing from the Lord.
Habakkuk declares his passion and commitment regarding this particular matter, as he states: "I will stand at my watch and station myself on the ramparts; I will look to see what He will say to me, and what answer I am to give to this complaint" (Habakkuk 2:1).
I love Habakkuk's choice of words in the above verse. "I will stand at my watch ... I will look to see what He will say to me." There is no wavering, no doubt. He is certain that God will speak ... and not only that, but also that he will clearly know when God has spoken.
Psalm 85:8 says, "I will listen to what God the LORD will say; He promises peace to His people -His saints ..." Again, we see the author's unwavering belief that God will speak. Sometimes when we are praying for something specific, we can easily become discouraged, frustrated, disheartened. We want the answer, and we want it NOW. We may not always understand God's timing. This particular psalmist is so good to remind us that as we listen, as we wait to see what God will say or do on our behalf, He promises peace to us. Peace in the midst of the waiting.
I have found such peace in the above passages of Scripture throughout the past few days. Just knowing that God will answer my prayers, and that I will know when He has done so, is so comforting and reassuring. We serve a God who is attentive to our needs, to our prayers. Why would we ever get caught up in the trap that we could miss His plan for our lives? As long as we are not treasuring sin in our hearts, God is listening to us (Psalm 66:18). And when we are overwhelmed by sins, we simply ask God to forgive us, and make an intentional decision to turn from those things that so easily entangle us (Psalm 65:3).
May we adopt a sense of urgency in our prayer lives. May we approach our God with a confidence that He will answer our prayers. State Psalm 85:8 aloud today, many times throughout your day: "I will listen to what God the LORD will say ..." Then, surrender your attention to hearing from Him.
Let's go be Habbakuk's of our generation: Standing at our watch ... Looking to see what He will say to us.
"You guide me with your counsel ... " (Psalm 73:4)
"Hear my prayer, O Lord God Almighty; Listen to me, O God of Jacob." (Psalm 84:8)
"In the morning, O Lord, You hear my voice; In the morning I lay my requests before You and wait in expectation." (Psalm 5:3)
Habakkuk declares his passion and commitment regarding this particular matter, as he states: "I will stand at my watch and station myself on the ramparts; I will look to see what He will say to me, and what answer I am to give to this complaint" (Habakkuk 2:1).
I love Habakkuk's choice of words in the above verse. "I will stand at my watch ... I will look to see what He will say to me." There is no wavering, no doubt. He is certain that God will speak ... and not only that, but also that he will clearly know when God has spoken.
Psalm 85:8 says, "I will listen to what God the LORD will say; He promises peace to His people -His saints ..." Again, we see the author's unwavering belief that God will speak. Sometimes when we are praying for something specific, we can easily become discouraged, frustrated, disheartened. We want the answer, and we want it NOW. We may not always understand God's timing. This particular psalmist is so good to remind us that as we listen, as we wait to see what God will say or do on our behalf, He promises peace to us. Peace in the midst of the waiting.
I have found such peace in the above passages of Scripture throughout the past few days. Just knowing that God will answer my prayers, and that I will know when He has done so, is so comforting and reassuring. We serve a God who is attentive to our needs, to our prayers. Why would we ever get caught up in the trap that we could miss His plan for our lives? As long as we are not treasuring sin in our hearts, God is listening to us (Psalm 66:18). And when we are overwhelmed by sins, we simply ask God to forgive us, and make an intentional decision to turn from those things that so easily entangle us (Psalm 65:3).
May we adopt a sense of urgency in our prayer lives. May we approach our God with a confidence that He will answer our prayers. State Psalm 85:8 aloud today, many times throughout your day: "I will listen to what God the LORD will say ..." Then, surrender your attention to hearing from Him.
Let's go be Habbakuk's of our generation: Standing at our watch ... Looking to see what He will say to us.
"You guide me with your counsel ... " (Psalm 73:4)
"Hear my prayer, O Lord God Almighty; Listen to me, O God of Jacob." (Psalm 84:8)
"In the morning, O Lord, You hear my voice; In the morning I lay my requests before You and wait in expectation." (Psalm 5:3)
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
The Chase
"When my life was ebbing away,
I remembered You, LORD,
and my prayer rose to You,
to Your holy temple.
Those who cling to worthless idols
forfeit the grace that could be theirs.
But I, with a song of thanksgiving,
will sacrifice to You.
What I have vowed I will make good.
Salvation comes from the LORD."
(Jonah 2:7-9)
I read the book of Jonah tonight. It's amazing to me how the Lord uses times in our lives, times of blatant disobedience, to set us straight and to turn our eyes toward Him. When God calls Jonah to Nineveh, Jonah instead runs away from the Lord and heads to Tarshish (Jonah 1:2-3). Get this: Jonah knowingly disobeyed. Like, God actually said: "Go to the great city of Nineveh ..." (Jonah 1:2), and Jonah ran the other direction. And not only did Jonah know in his heart of hearts that he was clearly disobeying the Lord - He actually told the other sailors on the boat to Tarshish he was running from God (Jonah 1:10).
Personally, I can relate to this. I felt God's call on my life at a very young age, and ran away myself. Periods of disobedience followed, and in my heart I think I always knew I was running away from the Lord's call on my life. Like Jonah, I still very much had a relationship with my God - I was just ignoring His direction and taking my own road, which I thought was much more sensible. Sensible it was not; Sovereign however, it was.
God's plan is always sovereign. Just as he used Jonah's disobedience to win the hearts of unbelievers (Jonah 1:16), God can use our mistakes to bring glory to Himself. Is this an excuse to mess up? Absolutely not. The pain of disobedience is excruciating to our spirits. It is however proof that our God has plans - plans of His own, to bring attention and glory to Himself, so that the world may know the Saving Power of Christ.
After I was done running, my God caught up with me. He gently pulled me unto Himself and asked me: "What were you running from?" "I was afraid," I responded. "Afraid of what?" He asked. "Afraid I would fail You, Lord. I am unworthy of Your calling." "Yes, indeed you are unworthy. But I, my child, I Am Worthy. And that's all that matters."
The chase was over. He won. Praise the Lord for that.
Do not forfeit the grace that God has set aside just for you, based on previous mistakes. Instead, be overflowed with thanksgiving and sacrifice to Your God for His sovereign plan. Vow to follow His direction from this point on, not looking back, except to recall all the great things He has done on your behalf, even amidst your frailties.
Thank You Jesus - for Your grace, Your Sovereignty, Your Salvation.
I remembered You, LORD,
and my prayer rose to You,
to Your holy temple.
Those who cling to worthless idols
forfeit the grace that could be theirs.
But I, with a song of thanksgiving,
will sacrifice to You.
What I have vowed I will make good.
Salvation comes from the LORD."
(Jonah 2:7-9)
I read the book of Jonah tonight. It's amazing to me how the Lord uses times in our lives, times of blatant disobedience, to set us straight and to turn our eyes toward Him. When God calls Jonah to Nineveh, Jonah instead runs away from the Lord and heads to Tarshish (Jonah 1:2-3). Get this: Jonah knowingly disobeyed. Like, God actually said: "Go to the great city of Nineveh ..." (Jonah 1:2), and Jonah ran the other direction. And not only did Jonah know in his heart of hearts that he was clearly disobeying the Lord - He actually told the other sailors on the boat to Tarshish he was running from God (Jonah 1:10).
Personally, I can relate to this. I felt God's call on my life at a very young age, and ran away myself. Periods of disobedience followed, and in my heart I think I always knew I was running away from the Lord's call on my life. Like Jonah, I still very much had a relationship with my God - I was just ignoring His direction and taking my own road, which I thought was much more sensible. Sensible it was not; Sovereign however, it was.
God's plan is always sovereign. Just as he used Jonah's disobedience to win the hearts of unbelievers (Jonah 1:16), God can use our mistakes to bring glory to Himself. Is this an excuse to mess up? Absolutely not. The pain of disobedience is excruciating to our spirits. It is however proof that our God has plans - plans of His own, to bring attention and glory to Himself, so that the world may know the Saving Power of Christ.
After I was done running, my God caught up with me. He gently pulled me unto Himself and asked me: "What were you running from?" "I was afraid," I responded. "Afraid of what?" He asked. "Afraid I would fail You, Lord. I am unworthy of Your calling." "Yes, indeed you are unworthy. But I, my child, I Am Worthy. And that's all that matters."
The chase was over. He won. Praise the Lord for that.
Do not forfeit the grace that God has set aside just for you, based on previous mistakes. Instead, be overflowed with thanksgiving and sacrifice to Your God for His sovereign plan. Vow to follow His direction from this point on, not looking back, except to recall all the great things He has done on your behalf, even amidst your frailties.
Thank You Jesus - for Your grace, Your Sovereignty, Your Salvation.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Psalm 145: A Psalm of Praise
Psalm 145:7, 13-19, 21:
They will celebrate Your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of Your righteousness.
Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations. The LORD is faithful to all His promises and loving toward all He has made. The LORD upholds all those who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down.
The eyes of all look to You, and You give them their food at the proper time. You open Your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing.
The LORD is righteous in all His ways and loving toward all He has made. The LORD is near to all who call on Him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear Him; He hears their cry and saves them.
My mouth will speak in praise of the LORD. Let every creature praise His holy name for ever and ever.
They will celebrate Your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of Your righteousness.
Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations. The LORD is faithful to all His promises and loving toward all He has made. The LORD upholds all those who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down.
The eyes of all look to You, and You give them their food at the proper time. You open Your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing.
The LORD is righteous in all His ways and loving toward all He has made. The LORD is near to all who call on Him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear Him; He hears their cry and saves them.
My mouth will speak in praise of the LORD. Let every creature praise His holy name for ever and ever.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Shamelessly Needy
I don't know where I would be without Him. I heard this song today, and it just brought me back to a place of recalling everything God has done in my life. I am overwhelmed. Disgusted by my shortcomings, but humbled by His rescuing, by His redemption.
On most days, I would like to think that I'm pretty independent, that I am not a woman one would label "needy." There is however one area of my life where I absolutely want to claim complete dependence and utter neediness. Hear this loud and clear: I want to be shamelessly needy after my God. I want to have more of Him, and less of me ... because in my flesh, I am nothing but a mess.
I Need You to Love Me, Barlow Girl
Why? Why are You still here with me? Didn't You see what I've done?
In my shame I want to run, and hide myself
But it's here I see the truth, I don't deserve You
But I need You to love me
I won't keep my heart from You this time
And I'll stop this pretending that I can, somehow deserve what I already have
I need You to love me
I have wasted so much time, pushing You away from me
I just never saw how You could cherish me
Cause You're a God who has all things, and still You want me
But I need You to love me
I won't keep my heart from You this time
And I'll stop this pretending that I can, somehow deserve what I already have
I need You to love me
Your love makes me forget what I have been
Your love makes me see who I really am
Your love makes me forget what I have been
On most days, I would like to think that I'm pretty independent, that I am not a woman one would label "needy." There is however one area of my life where I absolutely want to claim complete dependence and utter neediness. Hear this loud and clear: I want to be shamelessly needy after my God. I want to have more of Him, and less of me ... because in my flesh, I am nothing but a mess.
I Need You to Love Me, Barlow Girl
Why? Why are You still here with me? Didn't You see what I've done?
In my shame I want to run, and hide myself
But it's here I see the truth, I don't deserve You
But I need You to love me
I won't keep my heart from You this time
And I'll stop this pretending that I can, somehow deserve what I already have
I need You to love me
I have wasted so much time, pushing You away from me
I just never saw how You could cherish me
Cause You're a God who has all things, and still You want me
But I need You to love me
I won't keep my heart from You this time
And I'll stop this pretending that I can, somehow deserve what I already have
I need You to love me
Your love makes me forget what I have been
Your love makes me see who I really am
Your love makes me forget what I have been
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Calling Sin what it is
I am reading a new book. Not completely done with it yet, so wouldn't typically recommend it until I'm finished reading, but I like what I'm getting from the text.
In You Were Made for More, by Pastor Jim Cymbala, he says:
If I have a sinful area in my life and I won't let it go, I cannot appeal with any amount of faith for God to help me in another area of my life. God's special love for us as his sons and daughters includes his chastening us when we fall into a pattern of disobedience. This results in a loss of peace, not to mention a loss of power for the next battle.
Long ago in the fourth century, a teacher and prolific hymn writer known as Ephrem the Syrian observed with great wisdom, 'He who will not serve the Lord alone must be the slave of many masters.' To reject God's requirements does not set us free to enjoy our independence. It instead plunges us into ever more complicated bondages.
God lovingly calls us to obedience. He never gives up. The fact of his holiness cannot be compromised. When we disobey him, we hurt ourselves and we break communication with him. Only when this is restored can we realize his blessing on our efforts (Cymbala, You Were Meant for More, 51).
Praise the Lord for a precisely bold word! I need those more often.
In You Were Made for More, by Pastor Jim Cymbala, he says:
If I have a sinful area in my life and I won't let it go, I cannot appeal with any amount of faith for God to help me in another area of my life. God's special love for us as his sons and daughters includes his chastening us when we fall into a pattern of disobedience. This results in a loss of peace, not to mention a loss of power for the next battle.
Long ago in the fourth century, a teacher and prolific hymn writer known as Ephrem the Syrian observed with great wisdom, 'He who will not serve the Lord alone must be the slave of many masters.' To reject God's requirements does not set us free to enjoy our independence. It instead plunges us into ever more complicated bondages.
God lovingly calls us to obedience. He never gives up. The fact of his holiness cannot be compromised. When we disobey him, we hurt ourselves and we break communication with him. Only when this is restored can we realize his blessing on our efforts (Cymbala, You Were Meant for More, 51).
Praise the Lord for a precisely bold word! I need those more often.
A New Thing
"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland." Isaiah 43:18-19
What "new thing" is God attempting to do in your life? Are you resisting the change, afraid to let go of what you used to know, or are you trusting God for all that is ahead? There is no allowance in this passage of Scripture for wavering in and out of the past. God's Word is incredibly clear on this issue. He says that we must forget the past! Don't ignore it, push it to the back of your memory, then allow it to resurface every once in a while. Forget it!
Praying that we can take this command from Scripture literally today, focusing on all that God is presently working on in our lives.
What "new thing" is God attempting to do in your life? Are you resisting the change, afraid to let go of what you used to know, or are you trusting God for all that is ahead? There is no allowance in this passage of Scripture for wavering in and out of the past. God's Word is incredibly clear on this issue. He says that we must forget the past! Don't ignore it, push it to the back of your memory, then allow it to resurface every once in a while. Forget it!
Praying that we can take this command from Scripture literally today, focusing on all that God is presently working on in our lives.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Baby Emily Jane
One of my best friends is in labor right now. She is like an older sister to me, so I feel especially connected to this particular delivery. Michele arrived at the hospital this morning at 7:00 for an induction. This baby girl has been long awaited for. Little does she know that she has 2 big brothers who are dying to get their hands on her. To show her their secret hiding spot, her pretty pink bathroom, and most of all, to update her on all the new trailor hitches and tonka trucks she has been missing out on throughout the past 5 years. Something tells me that I am pretty sure she will have a few things to teach them, as well. And praise the Lord for this new addition, because that home needed some pink, if I do say so myself. That girly mama needs someone to support her cause, to advocate the necessity of the color pink and some sparkle around that brand new farmhouse. The camoflauge has reached it's limit, I do believe (unless of course, it's pink camo we're talking about). Baby Emily Jane is already so very blessed.
Psalm 139:13-16:
"For You created my inmost being; You knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from You when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, Your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be."
The Maker and Creator of the universe is the same One who forms the inmost, or deepest, aspect of who we are as individuals. Such knowledge is too wonderful and lofty for me to attain! (Psalm 139:6).
Our God knits us together - He places in us all of our hopes, dreams, ambitions. He forms us with individual and unique personalities, likes, and dislikes. He creates each one of us with individual talents and gifts, suited for our particular generation. The above passage states that all of the days of our lives were ordained, or appointed, before they even happened into existence. He is just so ... detailed. It's totally beyond my comprehension.
Father God, Bless this baby girl. Create in her an undivided heart at a very young age, that she may fear Your Name (Psalm 86:11). Your hands made and formed Emily Jane. We are trusting You to give her understanding to learn Your commands (Psalm 119:73).
Meditate on the specificity of your God today. You are here for a purpose - He has an intricate design for your individual life. Ask Him to reveal to You what that plan looks like, to fill you in on the details. After all, He owns the blueprint.
Anxiously Awaiting,
Heather
Psalm 139:13-16:
"For You created my inmost being; You knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from You when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, Your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be."
The Maker and Creator of the universe is the same One who forms the inmost, or deepest, aspect of who we are as individuals. Such knowledge is too wonderful and lofty for me to attain! (Psalm 139:6).
Our God knits us together - He places in us all of our hopes, dreams, ambitions. He forms us with individual and unique personalities, likes, and dislikes. He creates each one of us with individual talents and gifts, suited for our particular generation. The above passage states that all of the days of our lives were ordained, or appointed, before they even happened into existence. He is just so ... detailed. It's totally beyond my comprehension.
Father God, Bless this baby girl. Create in her an undivided heart at a very young age, that she may fear Your Name (Psalm 86:11). Your hands made and formed Emily Jane. We are trusting You to give her understanding to learn Your commands (Psalm 119:73).
Meditate on the specificity of your God today. You are here for a purpose - He has an intricate design for your individual life. Ask Him to reveal to You what that plan looks like, to fill you in on the details. After all, He owns the blueprint.
Anxiously Awaiting,
Heather
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Spoken like a true believer.
And I quote: "Heather [Actually, it says Hether] sings at the church. It is a very special [speshell] gift. She was born to do that and she likes that and Jesus gave her that talent [tallent]."
The profound words of a 6 years old. I let her write in my journal during church service this morning. This is the little note I received in return. How the Lord uses innocent little children to speak words of wisdom and blessing over our lives. You know I kissed that little one's face off.
So sweet ... and I just had to share it with you all.
The profound words of a 6 years old. I let her write in my journal during church service this morning. This is the little note I received in return. How the Lord uses innocent little children to speak words of wisdom and blessing over our lives. You know I kissed that little one's face off.
So sweet ... and I just had to share it with you all.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Choosing our Words Carefully
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." (Ephesians 4:29)
I believe the Lord intends to bring us to a place as women, where we are genuinely concerned about what He thinks about our words, how we respond to certain conversations, how we react in times of conflict. When you think about it, it's really amazing how much influence we have over each other. Which can most definitely be a wonderful thing, because we have the ability to bless others through our words. I can say something to a friend that can make or break her day.
I have been prayerful over this for a few reasons. I have received some very godly wisdom over the years. I have also received some very ungodly, unsolicited advice over the years. To the point that I will very rarely comment on certain types of situations that friends of mine may be experiencing because I know how it feels to be discouraged in those specific areas. I have also however, spoken out of turn more times that I can count and undoubtedly said some things that have crushed the spirits of my precious friends.
I have been prayerful over this for a few reasons. I have received some very godly wisdom over the years. I have also received some very ungodly, unsolicited advice over the years. To the point that I will very rarely comment on certain types of situations that friends of mine may be experiencing because I know how it feels to be discouraged in those specific areas. I have also however, spoken out of turn more times that I can count and undoubtedly said some things that have crushed the spirits of my precious friends.
The Message version reads: "Watch the way you talk. Let nothing foul or dirty come out of your mouth. Say only what helps, each word a gift."
What can we do to become more purposeful and encouraging in our speech?
We can be more intentional in our meditations. Matthew 15:18 reads, "But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man 'unclean.'" Let's begin our day praying the following prayer: "May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in Your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer" (Psalm 19:14).
We can be more aware of our motivations. Psalm 139:23-24 reads, "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me..." Sometimes we just like to hear ourselves talk. The Word of God changes people's circumstances - we don't. Every once in a while we need to check ourselves to see where our motivations lie, being sure they are pure before God. Simple things like, "Lord, should I lend my advice to this person? If so, what do YOU want me to say?" or "God, I know how I want to respond to that person's comment, but how do YOU want me to respond?"
"She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue." (Proverbs 31:26)
Monday, November 10, 2008
She has no clue.
So, I'm sitting at my favorite little coffee shop ... in my favorite little spot ... and I just had to tell y'all that ...
I'm glad I'm not 16 anymore! I'm sitting here watching this group of high-schoolers. There is a girl who just moved seats so that someone else could sit down, and instead of pulling up one of the 12 free chairs around, she decided to relocate to this boy's lap. It's pretty much grossing me out. He's getting way too much of a thrill out of it ... but you know, is acting like he couldn't be phased by it. Obviously it happens all the time to him. Ha. Oh, and she has no clue as to how she is making his night, possibly his whole sophomore year.
Ok, back to work. Seriously. This is distracting. I have my cute little leopard-print journal out (that I bought from Hobby Lobby, of course) and I am beginning some research for the upcoming women's retreat for The Creek Church! It's going to be the last weekend of February, so mark your calendars!
I'm glad I'm not 16 anymore! I'm sitting here watching this group of high-schoolers. There is a girl who just moved seats so that someone else could sit down, and instead of pulling up one of the 12 free chairs around, she decided to relocate to this boy's lap. It's pretty much grossing me out. He's getting way too much of a thrill out of it ... but you know, is acting like he couldn't be phased by it. Obviously it happens all the time to him. Ha. Oh, and she has no clue as to how she is making his night, possibly his whole sophomore year.
Ok, back to work. Seriously. This is distracting. I have my cute little leopard-print journal out (that I bought from Hobby Lobby, of course) and I am beginning some research for the upcoming women's retreat for The Creek Church! It's going to be the last weekend of February, so mark your calendars!
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Encouragement ... in Pink!
My sweet Mother put these beautiful pink roses together for me the other day. She is the busiest and most talented woman I know, and still made time to put a bouquet of flowers together for little me. She meant them as a token of encouragement. I recently did something that was a bit out of my comfort zone - yet something I knew God was very specifically calling me to do.
Mom, thank you for being such an incredible mentor and friend in my life. You are so in love with Jesus, and I have caught that flame. Thank you for sharing your faith walk with me. Thank you for spurring me on to believe God for bigger things. And thank you for my beautiful pink roses! Love you.
My New Favorite!
Alright so first thing's first ... Have y'all ever been to Hobby Lobby??! It's just about the cutest place I've ever been, and most definitely is one of my favorite new shopping stops. Well, sort of. The closest Hobby Lobby is in Asheboro, which is like 1 hour from my house. Oh, who cares! So it definitely won't be a frequent stop of mine, but when I'm in the mood for a little retreat, I know where I'll be going! And get this ... there's a Chick-Fil-A basically right next door. What could be better?!
Well, let me just tell you what can be better! The fact that the following is Hobby Lobby's statement of purpose:
In order to effectively serve our owners, employees, and customers the Board of Directors is committed to:
*Honoring the Lord in all we do by operating the company in a manner consistent with Biblical principles.
*Offering our customers an exceptional selection and value.
*Serving our employees and their families by establishing a work environment and company policies that build character, strengthen individuals, and nurture families.
*Providing a return on the owners' investment, sharing the Lord's blessings with our employees, and investing in our community.
We believe that it is by God's grace and provision that Hobby Lobby has endured. He has been faithful in the past, we trust Him for our future.
http://www.hobbylobby.com/our_company/our_company.cfm?page=1
AMEN for Hobby Lobby! Seriously, y'all need to check this place out. Sort of like Homegoods, except imagine cheaper and cuter. Oh, and holiday decor GALORE!
The climax of my recent happening upon this adorable store (other than having the opportunity to shop there with my friend Melissa), was when I spotted this item below:
Philippians 4:18 is a verse that I have pondered over many times. One that has stirred conviction upon my heart, my attitude, my thoughts. In full context, this Scripture reads: "Finally, brothers [sisters], whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things" (Philippians 4:18). In this passage, Paul is pleading with believers to love one another, to live in harmony with each other, ultimately so that their lives would win the respect of unbelievers. Also, so that their relationships would glorify God. We are challenged by this Scripture to abide by a higher standard. To abide by God's divine standard of holiness.
True. We are challenged to meditate upon truth, God's Truth. Noble. A commentary that I read this afternoon said, "Believers are to meditate on whatever is worthy of awe and adoration" (MacArthur). I love that. Right. Meaning "being in accordance with what is just, good, or proper; conforming to facts or truth." Pure. Undefiled. Morally clean. Free from corruption. Lovely. Delightful. Believers are to focus on whatever is kind or gracious. Admirable. The highest esteem. Focus on the things of excellence. Excellent or Praiseworthy. Worthy of praise. Superior.
This is not about a list of rules. This is about loving God, girls. Loving God more than ourselves. What is found in God is truer than anything this world has to offer. When we meditate on truth, nobility, rightness, purity, loveliness, things that are admirable and excellent - we are blessed. Our heart is focused on the things of God. We want to be right in our relationships, in our friendships, with other believers and with non-believers, because it glorifies God.
So, in closing ... Be urged this day to be mindful of the things you are thinking about. I am so challenged by this. You know why? Because I so want to love people God's way. And for some crazy reason, I believe this starts by meditating on the things of God on a daily basis - by training myself to abide by God's divine standard of holiness. Because I not only desire my actions and my words to honor my God - I desire my mind to bring Him praise. I don't want to waste time thinking about trash. I want to spend my time thinking about the things of God.
This is a hard one for us, women. Praise be to the God who can MAKE IT HAPPEN!
I love loving Jesus with you. Now ... go to Hobby Lobby! (And get you some Chick-Fil-A, too!)
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
May we have Your attention?
"Yet give attention to Your servant's prayer and his plea for mercy, O LORD my God. Hear the cry and the prayer that Your servant is praying in Your presence this day." (1 Kings 8:28)
I have been so overwhelmed by God's acute attention to detail lately. The fact that the God of the highest heavens, is in-tune to what is going on in our personal lives, is just too much for me to handle at the moment.
I love the verse noted above. I pray that God will focus His Masterful mind upon your need today - whatever that need may be. That He would concentrate on the prayer of your heart, on this very day. I love that we serve a God who has the power to act authoritatively. He is skillful and successful in all He does. May we trust Him for big things today. He knows no boundaries. Why should we?
Father, Thank You for paying attention to us. We specifically ask that the prayers of our hearts would be heard by You today. Thank You God, for challenging and spurring us on in our faith to trust You for big things. Thank You for being a "take control" kind of God. We trust You with our lives. In Jesus Name, Amen.
I have been so overwhelmed by God's acute attention to detail lately. The fact that the God of the highest heavens, is in-tune to what is going on in our personal lives, is just too much for me to handle at the moment.
I love the verse noted above. I pray that God will focus His Masterful mind upon your need today - whatever that need may be. That He would concentrate on the prayer of your heart, on this very day. I love that we serve a God who has the power to act authoritatively. He is skillful and successful in all He does. May we trust Him for big things today. He knows no boundaries. Why should we?
Father, Thank You for paying attention to us. We specifically ask that the prayers of our hearts would be heard by You today. Thank You God, for challenging and spurring us on in our faith to trust You for big things. Thank You for being a "take control" kind of God. We trust You with our lives. In Jesus Name, Amen.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
A God of Miracles
Yesterday afternoon, a sweet woman walked into my office. She shared with me a story of healing, of God's specific physical intervention, in her younger brother's life. My eyes welled up with tears, and my heart was overwhelmed with the glory of our God. We indeed serve a God of miracles. I believe this woman was brought into my office yesterday as a means to remind us that our prayers matter to our God. That God is blessed by our faithfulness. That He loves it when we believe Him for things, when we acknowledge that He truly is capable of all things.
Psalm 77:14 says, "You are the God who performs miracles; You display Your power among the peoples."
Do you hear that? We serve a God who performs miracles. Do we utilize that power - maybe for those big circumstances, but what about on a daily basis? How often do we limit God's intervention in our lives? What are you currently praying for? Are you praying specifically? Really specifically?
Galatians 3:5 says, "Does God give you His Spirit and work miracles among you because you observe the law, or because you believe what you heard?"
Today, I want to pray to the God who performs miracles. I want to believe Him. Believe Him because of what I have heard, believe Him because of what He has done, believe Him because of who He is.
ARE YOU BELIEVING GOD FOR A MIRACLE TODAY?
Increase our faith, Lord! (Luke 17:5) May we expect miracles from You.
Psalm 77:14 says, "You are the God who performs miracles; You display Your power among the peoples."
Do you hear that? We serve a God who performs miracles. Do we utilize that power - maybe for those big circumstances, but what about on a daily basis? How often do we limit God's intervention in our lives? What are you currently praying for? Are you praying specifically? Really specifically?
Galatians 3:5 says, "Does God give you His Spirit and work miracles among you because you observe the law, or because you believe what you heard?"
Today, I want to pray to the God who performs miracles. I want to believe Him. Believe Him because of what I have heard, believe Him because of what He has done, believe Him because of who He is.
ARE YOU BELIEVING GOD FOR A MIRACLE TODAY?
Increase our faith, Lord! (Luke 17:5) May we expect miracles from You.
Friday, October 10, 2008
Past, Present, Future
I have been consumed by the past today. Do you ever have that problem? It's just been one of those days where I have been "stuck." Yuck. There are certain things in our lives that we convince ourselves we are O-V-E-R. Then one by one, they rear their ugly heads, and we realize for the one-billionth time, that no, we're really not O-V-E-R it and we need to get a G-R-I-P. What is the first thing that happens when we dwell on the past, girls? We begin to fear for our futures, don't we?
I found comfort in the familiar passage of Jeremiah 29 tonight. I was reminded that He knows the plans He has for me - for every single one of us. He wants to bless us. To speak His Victory over our lives. Because He's just that good.
"For I know the plans I have for you, " declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." (Jeremiah 29:11-13)
Just take a few moments and reflect on this Scripture today. Claim it. Believe it. Recognize that as a child of the Most High God, you have assurance for Victory in your future. Let's get O-V-E-R the past, and trust Him presently for our future.
I found comfort in the familiar passage of Jeremiah 29 tonight. I was reminded that He knows the plans He has for me - for every single one of us. He wants to bless us. To speak His Victory over our lives. Because He's just that good.
"For I know the plans I have for you, " declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." (Jeremiah 29:11-13)
Just take a few moments and reflect on this Scripture today. Claim it. Believe it. Recognize that as a child of the Most High God, you have assurance for Victory in your future. Let's get O-V-E-R the past, and trust Him presently for our future.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Ambition
In a world that is infected with a "Look at me!" philosophy, I find the following Scripture to be incredibly challenging and convicting. Paul urges the believers in Thessalonica to live to please God, not man. 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 reads, "Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody."
This Scripture advises us to refrain from presenting social problems, to abstain from generating conflict among others. As women who profess faith in Jesus Christ, we must make every effort to present ourselves in such a way that reflects His heart and humility in times of conflict. As the above passage implores, we want to win the respect of unbelievers, for the sake of Christ.
This is a difficult feat, no doubt about it. At times, we find ourselves amidst conflict, and if I dare say "drama," without even knowing how we got there. Other times, we know darn well how we got there. I believe that as women of God, our aim is to conduct ourselves in a manner that is presented and outlined clearly through Scripture. It's about time we stopped attaching actions and decisions to the Name of God, when they blatantly go against every fiber of Truth. I pray that as a whole, we as women, would begin to desire to see others lifted up and encouraged, not torn down and defeated.
So, what do you say? Are you up for being ambitious today? Let's mind our own business. Let's lead a quiet life today. All for the glory of God. I guarantee that if we do this, we will begin to consider others better than ourselves.
This Scripture advises us to refrain from presenting social problems, to abstain from generating conflict among others. As women who profess faith in Jesus Christ, we must make every effort to present ourselves in such a way that reflects His heart and humility in times of conflict. As the above passage implores, we want to win the respect of unbelievers, for the sake of Christ.
This is a difficult feat, no doubt about it. At times, we find ourselves amidst conflict, and if I dare say "drama," without even knowing how we got there. Other times, we know darn well how we got there. I believe that as women of God, our aim is to conduct ourselves in a manner that is presented and outlined clearly through Scripture. It's about time we stopped attaching actions and decisions to the Name of God, when they blatantly go against every fiber of Truth. I pray that as a whole, we as women, would begin to desire to see others lifted up and encouraged, not torn down and defeated.
So, what do you say? Are you up for being ambitious today? Let's mind our own business. Let's lead a quiet life today. All for the glory of God. I guarantee that if we do this, we will begin to consider others better than ourselves.
"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves." (Philippians 2:3)
Friday, October 3, 2008
Rise Up
I have been so slack. I'm sorry. The Lord has been answering prayers left and right, and I am overflowing with things to write ... I just have not made the time. I'm going to make it a point this week to blog.
Every time I open my Bible lately, the Lord is speaking the importance of knowing His Wisdom. Allow these words to penetrate your heart today.
"Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or swerve from them. Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding. Esteem her, and she will exalt you; embrace her, and she will honor you. She will set a garland of grace on your head and present you with a crown of splendor." (Proverbs 4:5-9)
Solomon is the author of this Proverb, which is fitting considering I just read 1 Kings 3 where Solomon asks the Lord for a discerning heart and the wisdom of God (Do you see the common theme!?!?). I like what my Bible says in one of the footnotes: "What ranks above all else in God's economy is not a sharp mind but a discerning heart, the only thing Solomon asks God for when he becomes king. God praises and blesses Solomon for choosing such a spiritually meaningful gift" (Women of Faith Study Bible, p. 1023).
I do not believe it is simply coincidence that God has been teaching us about His Wisdom, in such a time as this. I believe He wants us to rise up ... gripping hold of His statutes, His knowledge, His foundational truths, so that we can know what we know, as women who are first and foremost followers of Christ. Being wise in the things of God is hard work, girls. It's out of the norm, and sometimes we have very few advocates. Guess what though? Too bad. It's required of us. We must know the things of God, and the only way to do that is by continuously (and I mean continuously), seeking Him. About everything. Every decision. Every issue. Every day.
I love you girls. Rise up and be women of the things of God. Desire Wisdom ... His Wisdom. You will be blessed.
Every time I open my Bible lately, the Lord is speaking the importance of knowing His Wisdom. Allow these words to penetrate your heart today.
"Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or swerve from them. Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding. Esteem her, and she will exalt you; embrace her, and she will honor you. She will set a garland of grace on your head and present you with a crown of splendor." (Proverbs 4:5-9)
Solomon is the author of this Proverb, which is fitting considering I just read 1 Kings 3 where Solomon asks the Lord for a discerning heart and the wisdom of God (Do you see the common theme!?!?). I like what my Bible says in one of the footnotes: "What ranks above all else in God's economy is not a sharp mind but a discerning heart, the only thing Solomon asks God for when he becomes king. God praises and blesses Solomon for choosing such a spiritually meaningful gift" (Women of Faith Study Bible, p. 1023).
I do not believe it is simply coincidence that God has been teaching us about His Wisdom, in such a time as this. I believe He wants us to rise up ... gripping hold of His statutes, His knowledge, His foundational truths, so that we can know what we know, as women who are first and foremost followers of Christ. Being wise in the things of God is hard work, girls. It's out of the norm, and sometimes we have very few advocates. Guess what though? Too bad. It's required of us. We must know the things of God, and the only way to do that is by continuously (and I mean continuously), seeking Him. About everything. Every decision. Every issue. Every day.
I love you girls. Rise up and be women of the things of God. Desire Wisdom ... His Wisdom. You will be blessed.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
A Common Trend
Yesterday I was led to mention a few key passages that urge us to search for the wisdom of God as if for a hidden treausre. Today I was blessed again to be reminded (through the following Scripture) that in Christ are all the hidden treasures of wisdom and knowledge. The thought that we have access to that kind of wisdom and that kind of knowledge, just blows me away.
In Colossians 2, Paul writes the following: "I want you to know how much I am struggling for you and for those at Laodecia, and for all who have not met me personally. My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" (Colossians 2:1-3).
Let us not grow weary, but instead continue to seek Him, so that we may learn to discern the heart and mind of God in our lives. I desperately want to know the things of my God, don't you?
In Colossians 2, Paul writes the following: "I want you to know how much I am struggling for you and for those at Laodecia, and for all who have not met me personally. My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" (Colossians 2:1-3).
Let us not grow weary, but instead continue to seek Him, so that we may learn to discern the heart and mind of God in our lives. I desperately want to know the things of my God, don't you?
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
The Hidden Treasure
"And if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD gives wisdom, and from His mouth come knowledge and understanding. He holds victory in store for the upright, He is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, for He guards the course of the just and protects the way of His faithful ones. Then you will understand what is right and just and fair - every good path. For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul. Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you."
(Proverbs 2:3-11)
On my search for the hidden treasure, my journey may entail some rough patches. It may involve throwing some heavy duty cargo overboard - some of those hefty items that I have picked up along the way - things that are weighing me down. My journey will certainly require my complete focus - I cannot afford to be distracted. There will be challenges and temptations. If I take my eye off the prize for even a split second, I may be tempted to settle for less. I may get tired and weary, and at times question if this whole thing is really even worth it ...
In 1 Kings 3:1-15, Solomon has just been annointed king over Israel. The Lord appears to Solomon in a dream and He asks Solomon what it is that he wants. God literally says to Solomon, "Ask for whatever you want me to give you" (1 Kings 3:5). Solomon's one request is that the Lord would give him "a discerning heart to govern [the people of Israel] and to distinguish between right and wrong" (1 Kings 3:9). Solomon was in search of the knowledge and the wisdom of God.
What are you in search of today? Where are you at in your search? Has your journey just begun, or have you been there for a while? Are you at a point where you are contemplating giving up - maybe feeling that God is being silent? Are you in the process of hauling the heavy cargo overboard - throwing off the excess weight? Perhaps you have recently reached your prize! Has the Lord poured out His wisdom, insight and understanding in a particular situation? If so, I hope you have taken the time to praise and shout: "It was worth it! I have discovered my hidden treasure, and the prize has made the journey totally worth it!"
I pray the Lord's blessing over your journey. Don't give up. Keep your eye on Him. Call out for wisdom, as Solomon did. Look for insight in the deep places of God.
It's there - You just have to want it enough.
"And if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God." (Proverbs 2:3-5)
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Before the Throne of God Above
My heart has been heavy today. I think I've listened to Selah's rendition of the song below, like 50 times - not exaggerating. Sometimes music can just minister to our souls like nothing else ... But seriously though, can you look at the words of this song? It is packed with the Truth of the Gospel. He is the great I AM - and thankfully, He IS who He IS in our times of complete and utter heaviness.
Before the Throne of God Above, Bancroft
Before the throne of God above
I have a strong and perfect plea
A great high Priest whose Name is Love
Who ever lives and pleads for me
My name is graven on His Hands
My name is written on His Heart
I know that while in heaven He stands
No tongue can bid me thence depart
When Satan tempts me to despair
And tells me of the guilt within
Upward I look and see Him there
Who made an end to all my sin
Because the sinless Savior died
My sinful soul is counted free
For God the Just is satisfied
To look on Him and pardon me
Behold Him there the Risen Lamb
My perfect spotless Righteousness
The great unchangeable I AM
The King of glory and of grace
One in Himself I cannot die
My soul is purchased by His blood
My life is hid with Christ on high
With Christ my Savior and my God
Before the Throne of God Above, Bancroft
Before the throne of God above
I have a strong and perfect plea
A great high Priest whose Name is Love
Who ever lives and pleads for me
My name is graven on His Hands
My name is written on His Heart
I know that while in heaven He stands
No tongue can bid me thence depart
When Satan tempts me to despair
And tells me of the guilt within
Upward I look and see Him there
Who made an end to all my sin
Because the sinless Savior died
My sinful soul is counted free
For God the Just is satisfied
To look on Him and pardon me
Behold Him there the Risen Lamb
My perfect spotless Righteousness
The great unchangeable I AM
The King of glory and of grace
One in Himself I cannot die
My soul is purchased by His blood
My life is hid with Christ on high
With Christ my Savior and my God
Monday, September 15, 2008
Deep Waters
“He reached down from on high and took hold of me; He drew me out of deep waters. He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me. He brought me out into a spacious place; He rescued me because He delighted in me.”
(Psalm 18:16-17, 19)
(Psalm 18:16-17, 19)
Have you ever been caught in the deep waters of life? Maybe you currently feel you are lost in an ocean of hate, or bitterness. Drowning in anger, unforgiveness, hurt, or anxiety. The list could go on. Can anyone relate? I know I can. Have you ever felt like you were literally trying with all of your might to keep your head above the water? Ever been in a place where you literally felt like you were drowning? I think this is the most fitting way to describe our times without God’s freedom. We can honestly feel that we are drowning in our own circumstances, and in those very moments, those of us who are desperate enough, admit we deeply long to be set free from ourselves, from our very own circumstances.
Come along with me as we dissect this scripture.
“He reached down from on high and took hold of me; He drew me out of deep waters.” Psalm 18:16
Allow me to share with you the meaning of “to take hold of”: 1. In an active sense; To lay hold of; to seize with the hands, or otherwise; to grasp; to get into one's hold or possession; to procure; to seize and carry away; to convey. Hence, specifically: (a) To obtain possession of by force or artifice; to get the custody or control of; to reduce into subjection to one's power or will; to capture; to seize; to make prisoner; as, to take am army, a city, or a ship; also, to come upon or befall; to fasten on; to attack; to seize; -- said of a disease, misfortune, or the like.
Which part of this definition speaks most personally to you? For me, two phrases jump out more than the others: to get into one’s hold or possession and to seize and carry away. In order to bring me into His possession, God has many times had to seize and carry me away. I cannot recall ever voluntarily walking away from a situation in which I thought myself to be content. God has always had to seize and carry me away from it. I ashamedly admit to you that the majority of the time, He grabs me up into His arms while I am still stubbornly kicking and screaming.
As we look at the latter part of verse 16, we once again are blessed by the reality that God draws us out of the deep waters. "To draw out” means: 1. To cause to move continuously by force applied in advance of the thing moved; to pull along; to haul; to drag; to cause to follow.
To cause to follow. He seizes us, He carries us away, and then He causes us to follow Him. The God of the Universe, the Creator of the land and the seas, the same God who laid the foundations of the earth - He reaches down and picks you and I out of the deep waters of life. He rescues us. He then sets us free to unashamedly serve Him and experience His freedom. Is there an ocean in your life today where you need some deep rescuing? Has there been an ocean in your past where you can recall experiencing a deep rescue from the One and Only? Only He could be successful enough to seize us, carry us away, and cause us to follow Him in an area we never thought we would overcome - in an ocean so deep, we definitely thought in all human standards that we were going to drown in it. That, my dear, is reason for some praise! He is most definitely miraculous.
Two more verses. Stay with me. I know we’ll be blessed by His Word!
“He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me.” (Psalm 18:17)
He rescues us from the powerful enemy - from our foes - who were too strong for us. Please realize that they were too strong for us without Christ, not with Him - remember that.
Read Luke 10:1-20. This passage reminds us of the Power of God over Satan. We read how Jesus sends the seventy-two people to go out ahead of him and proclaim the gospel. How amazed the seventy-two are when they have accomplished their mission! They say to Jesus, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name” (Luke 10:17). What Jesus says next just gives me chills.
Jesus responds, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you. However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven” (Luke 10:18-20).
We all have our struggles, our bouts with temptation. We all have our enemies, whether they are actual physical bodies or inner struggles ... they are demons that desperately want to gain control over our lives. They do not want Christ to be glorified and they will do everything in their power to make us believe they are stronger than us. They may be stronger than us without Christ, but they are NOT stronger than us with Christ. What we must understand is that because the Holy Spirit dwells inside of us, we are protected. We must start living like it! This does not mean it is going to be easy. Our struggles require constant communication with God and reliance upon His word. Christ gave us the authority to overcome the power of the enemy when He died on the Cross for all of our demons, struggles, and sins. Jesus is very clear to say to us: “Hey! Don’t get caught up in the fact that the spirits submit to you, but be joyful because you get to spend eternity worshipping the God who made such submission possible!”
“He brought me into a spacious place; He rescued me because He delighted in me.”
(Psalm 18:19)
He rescues us, not because He has to, but because He delights in us! He wants to rescue us! The footnotes of my Bible summarize “spacious place” in verse 19 the following way: where he is free to roam unconfined by the threats and dangers that had hemmed him in. As a sophomore in college, God completely took hold of my life. He literally bent down from heaven and removed me from a physical location, brought me home and gave me freedom to roam unconfined by the threats and dangers that had hemmed me in. He always knows when we need some freedom. He always knows when we need some room to roam unconfined. He always knows when we need to be set free.
I pray He can set you free from some deep waters today. Praise God that He has already taken care of all our struggles, hurts, anxieties, failures, disappointments, temptations, and enemies. May we never forget all He has done for us and all He will do in our lives. He knows when we are in need of a deep rescuing from our powerful enemies, and when it is time to reach down and take hold of us. He knows when it’s time to bring us into a spacious place and just let us roam for a little while, as He gently restores us.
Allow me to share with you the meaning of “to take hold of”: 1. In an active sense; To lay hold of; to seize with the hands, or otherwise; to grasp; to get into one's hold or possession; to procure; to seize and carry away; to convey. Hence, specifically: (a) To obtain possession of by force or artifice; to get the custody or control of; to reduce into subjection to one's power or will; to capture; to seize; to make prisoner; as, to take am army, a city, or a ship; also, to come upon or befall; to fasten on; to attack; to seize; -- said of a disease, misfortune, or the like.
Which part of this definition speaks most personally to you? For me, two phrases jump out more than the others: to get into one’s hold or possession and to seize and carry away. In order to bring me into His possession, God has many times had to seize and carry me away. I cannot recall ever voluntarily walking away from a situation in which I thought myself to be content. God has always had to seize and carry me away from it. I ashamedly admit to you that the majority of the time, He grabs me up into His arms while I am still stubbornly kicking and screaming.
As we look at the latter part of verse 16, we once again are blessed by the reality that God draws us out of the deep waters. "To draw out” means: 1. To cause to move continuously by force applied in advance of the thing moved; to pull along; to haul; to drag; to cause to follow.
To cause to follow. He seizes us, He carries us away, and then He causes us to follow Him. The God of the Universe, the Creator of the land and the seas, the same God who laid the foundations of the earth - He reaches down and picks you and I out of the deep waters of life. He rescues us. He then sets us free to unashamedly serve Him and experience His freedom. Is there an ocean in your life today where you need some deep rescuing? Has there been an ocean in your past where you can recall experiencing a deep rescue from the One and Only? Only He could be successful enough to seize us, carry us away, and cause us to follow Him in an area we never thought we would overcome - in an ocean so deep, we definitely thought in all human standards that we were going to drown in it. That, my dear, is reason for some praise! He is most definitely miraculous.
Two more verses. Stay with me. I know we’ll be blessed by His Word!
“He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me.” (Psalm 18:17)
He rescues us from the powerful enemy - from our foes - who were too strong for us. Please realize that they were too strong for us without Christ, not with Him - remember that.
Read Luke 10:1-20. This passage reminds us of the Power of God over Satan. We read how Jesus sends the seventy-two people to go out ahead of him and proclaim the gospel. How amazed the seventy-two are when they have accomplished their mission! They say to Jesus, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name” (Luke 10:17). What Jesus says next just gives me chills.
Jesus responds, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you. However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven” (Luke 10:18-20).
We all have our struggles, our bouts with temptation. We all have our enemies, whether they are actual physical bodies or inner struggles ... they are demons that desperately want to gain control over our lives. They do not want Christ to be glorified and they will do everything in their power to make us believe they are stronger than us. They may be stronger than us without Christ, but they are NOT stronger than us with Christ. What we must understand is that because the Holy Spirit dwells inside of us, we are protected. We must start living like it! This does not mean it is going to be easy. Our struggles require constant communication with God and reliance upon His word. Christ gave us the authority to overcome the power of the enemy when He died on the Cross for all of our demons, struggles, and sins. Jesus is very clear to say to us: “Hey! Don’t get caught up in the fact that the spirits submit to you, but be joyful because you get to spend eternity worshipping the God who made such submission possible!”
“He brought me into a spacious place; He rescued me because He delighted in me.”
(Psalm 18:19)
He rescues us, not because He has to, but because He delights in us! He wants to rescue us! The footnotes of my Bible summarize “spacious place” in verse 19 the following way: where he is free to roam unconfined by the threats and dangers that had hemmed him in. As a sophomore in college, God completely took hold of my life. He literally bent down from heaven and removed me from a physical location, brought me home and gave me freedom to roam unconfined by the threats and dangers that had hemmed me in. He always knows when we need some freedom. He always knows when we need some room to roam unconfined. He always knows when we need to be set free.
I pray He can set you free from some deep waters today. Praise God that He has already taken care of all our struggles, hurts, anxieties, failures, disappointments, temptations, and enemies. May we never forget all He has done for us and all He will do in our lives. He knows when we are in need of a deep rescuing from our powerful enemies, and when it is time to reach down and take hold of us. He knows when it’s time to bring us into a spacious place and just let us roam for a little while, as He gently restores us.
“Therefore let everyone who is godly pray to you while You may be found; Surely when the mighty waters rise, they will not reach him.” (Psalm 32:6)
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Like Water
"Pour out your your heart like water before the presence of the Lord!" (Lamentations 2:19b)
I read this verse tonight and was incredibly convicted of my lack of honesty with the Lord lately. I have held it all back from Him - I guess because I've had so much built up in my soul, that I knew it would be a continuous flow when I finally did begin laying it all out there.
Have you poured your heart out before the Lord lately? What is on your heart that you need to place before His throne?
Just let it flow, girls ... and let me know how it goes.
I read this verse tonight and was incredibly convicted of my lack of honesty with the Lord lately. I have held it all back from Him - I guess because I've had so much built up in my soul, that I knew it would be a continuous flow when I finally did begin laying it all out there.
Have you poured your heart out before the Lord lately? What is on your heart that you need to place before His throne?
Just let it flow, girls ... and let me know how it goes.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Holiday Fever! Seriously?!
Ok, so I'm totally going to blame it on the cinnamon and spiced orange scented brooms they had for sale right at the front door. Not really sure exactly what you do with a scented broom, but that's beside the point. I walked into Whole Foods tonight to get a salad after work and the entire place smelled like fall. You know, like a crisp cold fall day with the fireplace blazing in the house, drinking a cup of coffee, beautiful changing leaves outside. Like there I am, just trying to mind my own business and pay for my salad ... when wouldn't you know what they have at the check-out lane!?!? Oh, just the Paula Deen Special Collector's Holiday Issue! Well, of course I couldn't resiiiist ....
So, here I am - sitting here reading my Holiday Paula Deen magazine, and it's 90 degrees outside, for crying out loud!
Alright, I'm going to get back to it - I'm deciding between the Cranberry Pear Pie and the Sweet Potato Toffee Pie for Thanksgiving. What do y'all think?? Hahaha - I've lost my mind. Ok, so y'all just need to go get you one of these collector's issues! I'm totally not sharing!
So, here I am - sitting here reading my Holiday Paula Deen magazine, and it's 90 degrees outside, for crying out loud!
Alright, I'm going to get back to it - I'm deciding between the Cranberry Pear Pie and the Sweet Potato Toffee Pie for Thanksgiving. What do y'all think?? Hahaha - I've lost my mind. Ok, so y'all just need to go get you one of these collector's issues! I'm totally not sharing!
Friday, September 5, 2008
Wrestling with Fear?
Psalm 13:2-6 reads:
"How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and every day have sorrow in my heart? How long will my enemy triumph over me? Look on me and answer, O Lord my God. Give light to my eyes, or I will sleep in death; my enemy will say, 'I have overcome him,' and my foes will rejoice when I fall. But I trust in Your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in Your salvation. I will sing to the Lord, for He has been good to me."
I believe one of the enemy's most dibilating schemes comes in the form of fear. He wants to encumber our faith, replacing it with fear. The fear of today, or of tomorrow. The fear that we're not good enough, not smart enough, not godly enough. The fear of what has been, or what could be, or even what won't be.
We hear it said, "Fear is the opposite of faith." Look above once more at the few verses out of this particular Psalm of David. The first couple sentences are completely opposite of the last 2, are they not? He is displacing his fear onto his faith. Praise the Lord that we have Him to displace our fear upon. He is worthy of our complete trust, even when we're fearful.
The enemy is after our joy, girls. He wants it. Don't give your joy up today. Instead of being fearful, throw yourself headlong into His arms. Celebrate His rescue. Sing at the top of your lungs, because you, my dear, are so full of answered prayers! (Psalm 13:5-6 - The Message)
I am praying God's Victory over your life today! Relish in His goodness.
Love you!
"How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and every day have sorrow in my heart? How long will my enemy triumph over me? Look on me and answer, O Lord my God. Give light to my eyes, or I will sleep in death; my enemy will say, 'I have overcome him,' and my foes will rejoice when I fall. But I trust in Your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in Your salvation. I will sing to the Lord, for He has been good to me."
I believe one of the enemy's most dibilating schemes comes in the form of fear. He wants to encumber our faith, replacing it with fear. The fear of today, or of tomorrow. The fear that we're not good enough, not smart enough, not godly enough. The fear of what has been, or what could be, or even what won't be.
We hear it said, "Fear is the opposite of faith." Look above once more at the few verses out of this particular Psalm of David. The first couple sentences are completely opposite of the last 2, are they not? He is displacing his fear onto his faith. Praise the Lord that we have Him to displace our fear upon. He is worthy of our complete trust, even when we're fearful.
The enemy is after our joy, girls. He wants it. Don't give your joy up today. Instead of being fearful, throw yourself headlong into His arms. Celebrate His rescue. Sing at the top of your lungs, because you, my dear, are so full of answered prayers! (Psalm 13:5-6 - The Message)
I am praying God's Victory over your life today! Relish in His goodness.
Love you!
Saturday, August 30, 2008
The 3 Question Method
I thought that over the next week or so I would post a few helpful hints for studying the Bible - to be used for your own personal quiet time, or in a group setting.
The 3 Question Method is a method of studying the Bible verse-by-verse. I have used this both individually and in a large group Bible study, and have found it to be extremely effective and insightful.
Example: Psalm 46:10
"Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."
Step 1: What does God's Word say? (List the facts.)
Be still. Know that God is God. God will be exalted among the nations and in the earth.
Step 2: What does God's Word mean? (List the spiritual application.)
Sit back and trust that God is in control.
Step 3: What does God's Word mean to me? (Personalize the spiritual application by putting it into the form of a question.)
Am I sitting back and trusting that God is in control of my life? That He is in control of my particular circumstance?
The 3 Question Method is a method of studying the Bible verse-by-verse. I have used this both individually and in a large group Bible study, and have found it to be extremely effective and insightful.
Example: Psalm 46:10
"Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."
Step 1: What does God's Word say? (List the facts.)
Be still. Know that God is God. God will be exalted among the nations and in the earth.
Step 2: What does God's Word mean? (List the spiritual application.)
Sit back and trust that God is in control.
Step 3: What does God's Word mean to me? (Personalize the spiritual application by putting it into the form of a question.)
Am I sitting back and trusting that God is in control of my life? That He is in control of my particular circumstance?
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Go Bless a Sister!
So, it just so happens that throughout the past several years of my life, I have found the Bible character Hannah to be extremely relatable. 1 Samuel Chapter 1 is one of those passages that my worn out purple Bible just flips open to. I know you probably have those too. It's one of those seasoned passages where I have handwritten dates next to specific verses. One that has ministered to my heart in various seasons of my life – Times when I have been seeking direction on what to do after finishing college, praying about certain ministry or job opportunities, praying over and over again that the Lord would change a specific person’s heart, praying for fulfillment of certain desires of my heart. All of these very real seasons had 1 common denominator – I was being required to “wait” on something from the Lord. I just released a very deep breath. Why? Because just talking about waiting is something that saps my energy. Waiting can be an extremely fickle process, too – one day we’re going strong, the next we can barely get out of bed. Can anyone relate? When I recently felt the Lord lead me back to study 1 Samuel 1, I was a little skeptical. “Lord, You have brought me to this familiar passage so many times. What more could you possibly have for me here?”
Let me encourage you that those familiar passages of Scripture are familiar to you for a reason. God has something for you there. He certainly spoke a fresh word over 1 Samuel 1 for me this time – So much so, that I decided to keep on reading and now I’m halfway into 2 Samuel. I have pages of thoughts in my heart right now on the book of 1 Samuel, and I am still deciphering through a large portion of it.
My encouragement to you today comes from none other than … 1 Samuel Chapter 1. If you have some time today, open your Bible and read this chapter. It’s a short 28 verses, and will take you 10 minutes at the most.
Let’s take a quick look at the first 10 verses of 1 Samuel Chapter 1. We are told in verses 1-2 that Hannah is not Elkanah’s one and only. He in fact has two wives, Hannah and Peninnah. The latter part of verse 2 reads, “Peninnah had children, but Hannah had none.” It is presumable that Elkanah married Hannah first, but because she could not bear children, he then also married Peninnah. 1 Samuel 1:6-7 says, “And because the LORD had closed her womb, her rival kept provoking her in order to irritate her. This went on year after year. Whenever Hannah went up to the house of the LORD, her rival provoked her till she wept and would not eat.” Alright, so who wants to fight Peninnah??! No doubt about it - we could camp out here for a while, but let’s move on to what I believe God has for us here today.
All Isrealite men were required to attend 3 annual feasts at the central sanctuary, which in this case was at Shiloh. Elkanah gathers his wives and they head to Shiloh to worship and sacrifice to the Lord (v. 3). After they are finished with their feast, Hannah stands up and begins to pray.
1 Samuel 1:10-11 reads: “In bitterness of soul Hannah wept much and prayed to the LORD. And she made a vow saying, ‘O LORD Almighty, if you will only look upon your servant’s misery and remember me, and not forget your servant but give her a son, then I will give him to the LORD for all the days of his life, and no razor will ever be used on his head.’”
Eli, the high priest at Shiloh, witnesses this scene and approaches Hannah. After first falsely accusing her of being drunk on wine (vs. 13-14), Eli recognizes the reality of the situation and seeks to take on a different approach to Hannah's heart cry: He blesses her. In verse 14, Eli says, "Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked of Him."
CHECK OUT WHAT HAPPENS NEXT: "Then she went her way and ate something, and her face was no longer downcast" (1 Samuel 1:18).
WHO have you blessed lately? Who in your life has been praying over a certain circumstance for actual years, or maybe what seems like years? Is the Lord calling you to encourage them in their feat? Have you ever considered that your encouragement could actually spur them onto greater faith in the Lord? That God could use your words to cause a turning point in their soul struggle?
Look at the transition in Hannah’s spirit between 1 Sam. 1:16 and 18. I believe it all goes back to the blessing of Eli. By the looks of it, he did not know why Hannah was crying out to the Lord. The only thing He knew was that she was in “great anguish and grief,” that the matter of her heart was so pressing, so sincere, so significant, that her entire soul was crying out to the Lord. Do we have to know exactly what someone is experiencing in order to pray for them, or encourage them? How often, in fact, do we use that as an excuse not to pray for or reach out to others? “Well, I would pray, but I don’t know how to pray.”
There are women in our lives, all around us, who have been crying out to the Lord, who have been fighting a battle with the rival of their souls, for years. Day after day, week after week, month after month, year after year after year after year … the same battle. Ask the Lord to reveal to you who they are. Ask Him to make you attentive to the needs of others. To create some empathy in you. We do not need to “pry” in order to “pray.”
I don't know about you, but I feel like going and blessing a sister!
Let me encourage you that those familiar passages of Scripture are familiar to you for a reason. God has something for you there. He certainly spoke a fresh word over 1 Samuel 1 for me this time – So much so, that I decided to keep on reading and now I’m halfway into 2 Samuel. I have pages of thoughts in my heart right now on the book of 1 Samuel, and I am still deciphering through a large portion of it.
My encouragement to you today comes from none other than … 1 Samuel Chapter 1. If you have some time today, open your Bible and read this chapter. It’s a short 28 verses, and will take you 10 minutes at the most.
Let’s take a quick look at the first 10 verses of 1 Samuel Chapter 1. We are told in verses 1-2 that Hannah is not Elkanah’s one and only. He in fact has two wives, Hannah and Peninnah. The latter part of verse 2 reads, “Peninnah had children, but Hannah had none.” It is presumable that Elkanah married Hannah first, but because she could not bear children, he then also married Peninnah. 1 Samuel 1:6-7 says, “And because the LORD had closed her womb, her rival kept provoking her in order to irritate her. This went on year after year. Whenever Hannah went up to the house of the LORD, her rival provoked her till she wept and would not eat.” Alright, so who wants to fight Peninnah??! No doubt about it - we could camp out here for a while, but let’s move on to what I believe God has for us here today.
All Isrealite men were required to attend 3 annual feasts at the central sanctuary, which in this case was at Shiloh. Elkanah gathers his wives and they head to Shiloh to worship and sacrifice to the Lord (v. 3). After they are finished with their feast, Hannah stands up and begins to pray.
1 Samuel 1:10-11 reads: “In bitterness of soul Hannah wept much and prayed to the LORD. And she made a vow saying, ‘O LORD Almighty, if you will only look upon your servant’s misery and remember me, and not forget your servant but give her a son, then I will give him to the LORD for all the days of his life, and no razor will ever be used on his head.’”
Eli, the high priest at Shiloh, witnesses this scene and approaches Hannah. After first falsely accusing her of being drunk on wine (vs. 13-14), Eli recognizes the reality of the situation and seeks to take on a different approach to Hannah's heart cry: He blesses her. In verse 14, Eli says, "Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked of Him."
CHECK OUT WHAT HAPPENS NEXT: "Then she went her way and ate something, and her face was no longer downcast" (1 Samuel 1:18).
WHO have you blessed lately? Who in your life has been praying over a certain circumstance for actual years, or maybe what seems like years? Is the Lord calling you to encourage them in their feat? Have you ever considered that your encouragement could actually spur them onto greater faith in the Lord? That God could use your words to cause a turning point in their soul struggle?
Look at the transition in Hannah’s spirit between 1 Sam. 1:16 and 18. I believe it all goes back to the blessing of Eli. By the looks of it, he did not know why Hannah was crying out to the Lord. The only thing He knew was that she was in “great anguish and grief,” that the matter of her heart was so pressing, so sincere, so significant, that her entire soul was crying out to the Lord. Do we have to know exactly what someone is experiencing in order to pray for them, or encourage them? How often, in fact, do we use that as an excuse not to pray for or reach out to others? “Well, I would pray, but I don’t know how to pray.”
There are women in our lives, all around us, who have been crying out to the Lord, who have been fighting a battle with the rival of their souls, for years. Day after day, week after week, month after month, year after year after year after year … the same battle. Ask the Lord to reveal to you who they are. Ask Him to make you attentive to the needs of others. To create some empathy in you. We do not need to “pry” in order to “pray.”
I don't know about you, but I feel like going and blessing a sister!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Here goes nothin!
Ok, so I feel a little funny about this whole blog thing. I don't really know what I am doing, and I definitely don't think anything I write is really that wonderful that you'll actually want to read it; however, I do think this could be fun so I'm going to give it a try. Bear with me.
About 3 years ago, I began to feel the Lord leading me into women's ministry. It started as a deep burden that there was much more to my spiritual walk with God than I was actually experiencing. A deep hunger for the Word of God resulted in the realization that nothing on this earth can satisfy the void that is set aside for Jesus Christ alone to fulfill. I believe that women at all ages and stages of life can experience great victory through the study of the Word of God.
There are a few things I am deeply passionate about:
1) I believe we are each created with a unique and intricate purpose. Ephesians 2:10 says, "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." We are each an individual work of art, created by God, to know our purpose in Him. We discover that purpose through knowing and seeking Jesus. Psalm 138:8 says, "The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me; Your love O Lord, endures forever - do not abandon the works of Your hands."
2) I believe that God has all the days of our lives ordained, or prepared. Psalm 139:16 says, "All the days ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be." God has specific plans for each of our lives. When we seek Him for direction in our lives, His Word assures us He will be found by us (Isaiah 55:6).
3.) I believe God has something profound to say to each one of us, every single day, through His Word. Whether we focus in on 1 verse, or a whole chapter, I believe that the Word of God is totally active and applicable in our lives today.
I love the following Scripture in Daniel 4:2-3 - "It is my pleasure to tell you about the miraculous signs and wonders that the Most High God has performed for me. How great are His signs, how mighty His wonders! His kingdom is an eternal kingdom; His dominion endures from generation to generation." That being said, I pray this blog will be a blessing to you. It is my pleasure to share with you what He is teaching me, and I cannot wait to hear all that He is doing in your lives. It is my prayer that anytime you happen to have a free moment to log on, there will be something here that will spur you on in your faith walk, and even possibly provide you with a "hint of hope."
I think this will be fun!
Blessings to you!
Heather
About 3 years ago, I began to feel the Lord leading me into women's ministry. It started as a deep burden that there was much more to my spiritual walk with God than I was actually experiencing. A deep hunger for the Word of God resulted in the realization that nothing on this earth can satisfy the void that is set aside for Jesus Christ alone to fulfill. I believe that women at all ages and stages of life can experience great victory through the study of the Word of God.
There are a few things I am deeply passionate about:
1) I believe we are each created with a unique and intricate purpose. Ephesians 2:10 says, "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." We are each an individual work of art, created by God, to know our purpose in Him. We discover that purpose through knowing and seeking Jesus. Psalm 138:8 says, "The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me; Your love O Lord, endures forever - do not abandon the works of Your hands."
2) I believe that God has all the days of our lives ordained, or prepared. Psalm 139:16 says, "All the days ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be." God has specific plans for each of our lives. When we seek Him for direction in our lives, His Word assures us He will be found by us (Isaiah 55:6).
3.) I believe God has something profound to say to each one of us, every single day, through His Word. Whether we focus in on 1 verse, or a whole chapter, I believe that the Word of God is totally active and applicable in our lives today.
I love the following Scripture in Daniel 4:2-3 - "It is my pleasure to tell you about the miraculous signs and wonders that the Most High God has performed for me. How great are His signs, how mighty His wonders! His kingdom is an eternal kingdom; His dominion endures from generation to generation." That being said, I pray this blog will be a blessing to you. It is my pleasure to share with you what He is teaching me, and I cannot wait to hear all that He is doing in your lives. It is my prayer that anytime you happen to have a free moment to log on, there will be something here that will spur you on in your faith walk, and even possibly provide you with a "hint of hope."
I think this will be fun!
Blessings to you!
Heather
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)