I will walk in freedom, for I have devoted myself to your commandments. Psalm 119:45. NLT.
As we celebrate our nation’s freedom this week, it is always good to remember what it cost our founding fathers to form our nation. So many of the signers of the Declaration of Independence suffered for their actions. The British captured five of the signers, and tortured them before they died. Twelve had their homes ransacked and burned. Two lost their sons in the revolutionary army, another had two sons captured. Nine of the 56 fought and died from wounds or hardships of the revolutionary war. (www.michaelwsmith.com) It was personally costly for these brave men, and we are still reaping the benefits of their sacrifice today.
But, unfortunately, most of us don’t even think about that cost. Complaints, criticism and frustrations abound about how things are not right, but rarely do we hear people talking about the freedoms we have. Each of these freedoms came with a high price tag. The freedom of speech, the freedom of assembly and worship, the freedom of the press are all freedoms our founding fathers fought for. Because most of us have not lived in places where these freedoms are not experienced, we don’t comprehend how good we do have it. I think it is often the same with the freedom that was purchased by Christ. We are often forgetful about the actual price it cost Him for our freedom. Then we settle for living less than He intends.
There are so many ways we can get entangled. We move from grace to living under the law. We forget about cultivating the fruit of the Spirit, and settle for the works of the flesh. One way we can lose our freedom is living with unforgiveness. Our Life Group has been watching a video series by Bruce and Toni Hebel, called “Forgiving Forward”. This teaching really brings it home that God’s Word is quite adamant that we need to walk in forgiveness, no matter what. It is not an option. As I have waited on the Lord, it’s been surprising the things the Holy Spirit brings up that I need to take the time to forgive–things in the past that I thought were long buried and done with. But as I partner with Him, I find my heart freer and at an even greater peace. This is a reminder to keep your heart clear as the Holy Spirit leads. Do not fall for the lie or deception that it doesn’t make a difference, because it does. Read Matthew 18: 21-35. Let God’s Word touch your heart.
Jesus poured His life out for us. He endured so much to purchase our freedom, and for that I am so grateful. We can walk with Him with a free heart, and that is priceless. The freedom forgiveness brings to you and your relationships is priceless. Don’t justify it, just do it. Ask Him for His help, He is really good at helping people forgive!
Father, I am so grateful we have your forgiveness. Thank you we can walk in that freedom and help pass that on to others. Our ability to forgive comes from the fact we are already forgiven. Teach us how to forgive from our heart like you have asked us to. We trust you to heal our hurts, and release us into Your freedom, In Jesus Name, amen.
“Let’s go at once to take the land,” he said. “We can certainly conquer it.” Numbers 13:30. NLT.
The quote above is brave courageous Caleb talking, encouraging his fellow Israelites to enter the land God promised them. He and the other eleven spies spent forty days exploring the territory. They found amazing reasons to want to enter this land. They declared it was a land flowing with milk and honey. Fruit so large it took two men to carry a single cluster of grapes! There were pomegranates and figs! Can you imagine how wonderful they must have tasted after manna (and a bit of quail?) They had been traveling about two years at this point. I imagine the moms with small children were looking forward to a settling place, instead of traveling.
Unfortunately, the majority ruled in the decision. Ten nos to two yeses left them with a forty-year journey. Sometimes, when others don’t say “yes” to God’s plans, it causes us to bear the effects of their nos. I wonder what encouraging faith stories we would have had if they had said, “we can do it!” When I read this story, I get frustrated with the ten, but I don’t know which side I would have been on if I had actually been there!
By God’s grace, I have experienced the power of saying “yes” to God’s leading. Darryl and I left Idaho with two small children, headed for Providence, Rhode Island. We had forty dollars and the Word of the Lord to depend on. It was an amazing, challenging but faith building experience. Our VW van lost a tire going down a 6% grade outside Billings, Montana. The Holy Spirit led us to contact a pastor who helped us get a new tire and $50.00. We drove on to Youngstown, Ohio, where I met his grandparents. His grandparents handed us two cards from other family members. They turned out to be new baby congratulation cards for our daughter Elizabeth, who was six months old! These cards contained the cash we needed to continue the rest of our journey where we arrived with $50! As Darryl and I prayed together, in unity, we found out just what an amazing supplier our God really is. As I think about the faith and peace we left Idaho with, I marvel at God’s goodness. I think Caleb and Joshua had that same faith when they said, we can do it.
When we said “yes” to this trip, we did not know that it would open doors that are still open for relationships and ministry. We could have stayed “fear locked” in Idaho, but we didn’t. Is there anywhere in your life that fear has locked you out of God’s future? If so, it’s not too late. Just say “yes” and move on through whatever door He opens.
If I am honest, I also have stories where I tried to justify my “nos”. Just the other day, I felt to stop by my friend’s store and encourage her, but I didn’t feel I was “dressed” right, so I drove on. I felt the Holy Spirit tell me later, “then don’t leave the house dressed in a way that would hinder you from saying yes to my leading.” Oops. This left me feeling “small” and wondering what encouragement my friend could have used that day. I made it about me, not Him or her. When I saw her the next time, I apologized for ignoring the Lord’s prompting. It was a learning lesson for us both.
Friends, have you been praying for open doors for ministry to your family or friends? Have you asked Him to use you to bring light, hope, and love to this world? Then say “yes” to His promptings. Make a call, send a card, give a financial gift–do whatever He says, the power of saying Yes to His will may surprise you. Are you bored with your walk with Him? It may be because you delayed in saying “yes” to Him in some area of your life. Delaying to say “yes”, is in reality a “no”. If the Israelites had just gone into the land, ignoring their fears and trusting the Lord they would have experienced some astounding victories, I am sure. Do not let fear stop you from saying yes, no matter what it looks or feels like. Saying yes to Him releases strength, wisdom and insight to win whatever battle you are facing. Saying no, only land locks you into fear and stagnancy. My friends, you can say yes to Him, this day. Don’t focus on the giants, but focus yourself on our powerful, mighty God. You won’t regret it.
Father, I thank you for courage today to say yes to your will and your ways. Forgive us for ignoring or delaying your assignments for our lives, no matter how big or how small. Help us grow in trusting you and I thank you for freeing your people from both big and little fears this day, In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. James 1:22. NLT
There is quite a difference between ignorance and ignoring. Ignorance is the lack of knowledge or information. Ignoring is the refusal to take notice of or acknowledge something, the failing to consider or the choice to disregard something. Before we learn something, we are in ignorance about it. Years ago, when we first moved to Oak Harbor, I was pulled over by a police officer for traveling 30 miles an hour in a 25 mile zone. He said, “You didn’t even slow down when you saw me.” “I said, because I thought the speed limit on this road was 30 miles an hour!”. He was gracious and gave me a warning. I am no longer “ignorant” of the speed limit on that road. If I drive 30 miles an hour, I am ignoring the rules of the road, and breaking the law.
I think we as God’s people are often guilty of ignoring His commandments, than being ignorant of them. I’ve been reading about King Solomon, and we find he did some major ignoring of his own, which cost Israel dearly after he died. He ignored God’s ruling about marrying foreign wives. Even though he asked for wisdom and understanding to lead the nation, he faltered in this one area. Those women he married caused him to build actual shrines to their gods. On the Mount of Olives, east of Jerusalem, he even built a pagan shrine for Chemosh, the detestable god of Moab, and another for Molech, the detestable god of the Ammonites. Solomon built such shrines for all his foreign wives to use for burning incense and sacrificing to their gods. 1 Kings 11: 7-8. This is a man who built the Temple to the Lord! I don’t know how he justified these builds, (maybe it was for peace in his household), but the consequences for Israel were severe.
The Lord was very angry with Solomon, for his heart had turned away from the Lord, the God of Israel, who had appeared to him twice. He had warned Solomon specifically about worshiping other gods, but Solomon did not listen to the Lord’s commands. 1 Kings 11: 9-10. The passage goes on with God telling Solomon that he is going to tear the kingdom away from him, and give it to one of his servants, which after his death happens.
As much as I want to judge Solomon for his actions. I can’t. I realize, at times, we all pick and choose which scriptures we apply and which ones we think we can conveniently ignore. Solomon lost sight of his relationship with the Lord, and so it became easy for him to pick and choose his obedience. Isn’t that the same with us? When we go through the motions of our “religion” it becomes easier to justify the lack of Bible reading, church attendance, tithing, loving others or forgiving. 2 Timothy 2:15states, do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. This scripture helps motivate me to stay in the Word, and do my best to apply it.
Revelation 2 and 3 include specific encouragement and specific corrections to seven different churches. Most of these “churches” which are actually the people in them, were criticized for ignoring some of the basic truths they were taught. Reading through them always encourages me to stand taller in the things I’ve already learned, which is good. But the one that touches my heart the most is the church at Ephesus. They did so many good things, but they lost their first love. Solomon lost his first love, which is why he actually lost the kingdom. My friends, let us persevere in listening to the Holy Spirit and asking Him if we have justified “ignoring” His Word in any area of our lives. The price is higher than we can imagine. Our next generation is looking to us. If we compromise and justify ignoring parts of scripture, they will too. I am grateful for God’s grace and mercy. He desires to help us listen and obey. James 1:22-25. But don’t just listen to God’s word. Y0u must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in the mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it.
Father, I thank you for loving us enough to help us walk in Your ways. Help us be faithful to Your Word and not be forgetful doers of it. Help us not get fooled into thinking we can ignore your Words and not have any consequences.Forgive us, In Jesus’ Name, amen.
Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20. NLT.
When was the last time you acknowledged, identified, accepted the fact that you are a disciple of Jesus Christ? Living as a disciple should cause major shifts in our thinking. We are truly not our own, but His. A disciple must, inherently , be a learner. They set themselves to learn from their leader.
We find the heart of Jesus in this passage. He wants his followers to go and make disciples. I read something someone wrote called the 3 F’s of discipleship. These three F’s are: follow, fellowship and fish. Being a disciple means we follow Jesus. We learn to do things as He desires. It is not our will, but His will that is foremost in our mind. What would Jesus do? How would He do it? If we are not sure, we can search His Word, or ask trusted leaders. You may not always get it right, but a heart to do right is a substantial shift to begin with. Which is why He includes baptizing them in the name of the Father, and the Son and the Holy Spirit. We must remember we cannot become disciples without the power of the Holy Spirit, and we do not have to. When we relegate our “discipleship” to mental assent and intellectual pursuit, we fall short of the power that changes us on the inside, because, foremost, discipleship deals with heart change.
To be a disciple, we must be teachable. We must allow the Holy Spirit to show us wrong thinking and wrong acting. Letting go of “what seems right to a man,”, and choosing to trust God’s wisdom takes humility. Included in that humility means finding the truth and letting that become your truth. When was the last time you learned something new? Or let go of old understandings? I’ve known all along the Bible teaches about forgiveness, but studying Matthew 18:35 in our Life Group has made it very clear we must forgive. It is not an option. I understood it on one level, but it has become much clearer lately. Learning these types of truths, which really do set us free, requires the renewing of our minds, which only our God can help us do.
Jesus clarifies: teaching them to obey all the commands. Wow, as a disciple, we must allow the Holy Spirit to give us commands. This definitely goes against our western independence! There are definite commands that, as a disciple, we must shift our thinking to accept. A mature disciple accepts these commandments because he trusts His master. He is willing to “endure the fellowship of his sufferings”. A disciple is not a fair- weathered friend, but perseveres to the end. Paul is such an amazing example for us. Read through Paul’s list of things he went through in Acts and 2 Corinthians 6. There is a cost of fellowship, but we must remember what we are purchasing.
As we develop our fellowship with Christ, we have the joy of seeing others set free as they taste of His goodness through our lives. Having a loving, caring relationship with Jesus is amazing, and worth the cost no matter what. He is always with us. We canrejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us , because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. Romans 5:3-5. NLT. Being a disciple really does mean laying down our lives and taking up our cross daily. Not just when it seems more convenient or easy, but at His wisdom. We often run into trouble when we hear our assignment, but then try to do it alone. When my children were little and I would assign them a task, they would want to run off and do it without taking the time for instruction. They probably felt it took too long, and “they knew how to do it”. I have some grandchildren who want to figure everything out themselves, but, once again, that is not the stance of a disciple. We are learners, listeners and submitters!
The last thing Jesus left them with was: And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age. Matthew 28:20. Dear friends, remember, we are not walking this journey of discipleship alone. Our God is with us. He is with us with all His provision, His love and His authority. We must learn how to use the authority given to us, the spiritual armor given, the fruit of the Spirit to become a fully mature disciple of Jesus Christ. He is well able to teach us. He has provided apostles, prophets, evangelists and pastors and teachers to equip the body of Christ. (Ephesians 4:11). Learning to learn from His leaders is another mark of maturity, then growing up into your specific calling. As disciples we move from milk to meat. We learn to love our brethren, and so much more. If you have forgotten that as a believer, you are called to be a disciple, then shift your thinking and get on with it! The body of Christ needs you.
Father, thank you for the privilege of being your disciple. Help us bring honor and glory to your name. I thank you for showing us how to persevere and follow you, no matter where You lead. Teach how to follow, fellowship and then become fishermen ourselves, in Jesus’ Name, amen.
So take a new grip with your tired hands and strengthen your weak knees. Hebrews 12:12 NLT
This past week a friend and member of our small group received some very disappointing news. It was very hard to hear, and it was one of those situations where much prayer had gone forth, with good expectations and then poor choices happened and sad news followed. Our small group is really family, so what hurts one hurts us all. As I wrote to encourage her, I actually wrote, “we’ve all had heart pain that knocks us sideways. You are not alone. We are with you. You will get your faith legs back. They actually are still there.” This was the first time I have ever used the phrase “faith legs”.
Most of us take our legs for granted. I watch my grandchildren hop up from the floor and run around, without thinking! This past year I have had trouble with my knees. Naturally, I have had to slow down a bit when rising from chairs and think twice about floor sitting with my granddaughter because I have to get up again! This has made me much more aware of my legs. We need them to walk, run, hop or skip! But our spiritual legs are even more important.
Spiritual battles are taking place all around us, in us, and hopefully through us to victories. Spiritual battles take courage. There are times, even with our spiritual armor put in place, we can receive wounds. We make it through a rough battle, celebrating God’s victory, breathing a sigh of relief. But we may not realize we have sustained some damage. When the next battle comes around, we may be reluctant to engage. This is Satan’s further attempt at sidelining God’s warriors. We find our hands tired (feeble) and our knees weak.
After my knees started protesting their job, I went to physical therapy. My PT person showed me various exercises to strengthen my knees–but mainly she said the thing I needed to do was strengthen my hips. I needed strong hips to give me stronger knees and legs. After a season of PT, I finally had an MRI, which discovered, not arthritis, but damaged tendons and ligaments. My orthopedic appointment yielded a “come back and see me when you don’t feel safe to walk across the floor”. When our spiritual knees and hands are weakened, we need strengthening exercises to become strong again. We need to go back to the Lord, asking for strength and restoration. There is healing in the Presence of the Lord. If we feel frustrated or weak, guilt may keep us from seeking Him, because we think we should/could have been stronger. Weakness just shows us where we need to be strengthened. There should be no guilt involved.
This comes back to “faith legs”. Paul tells the Ephesians: A final word: Be strong in the Lord and his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.Ephesians 6:10. Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Ephesians 13:11. It is God’s intention that we learn how to stand firm in our faith. Even amid any no’s we might receive. Disappointments are difficult to process. But they shouldn’t stop us from fighting on. Victories will never be won without a battle.
What may look like failure for a season, is just that. A season. Part of our walk with the Lord is understanding how to fall and then get back up. The godly may trip seven times, but they will get up again. Proverbs 24:16. My friends, we must set ourselves to rise again, not stay down. Often condemnation tries to keep us down, don’t let it. Remember: there is no condemnation to those who belong to Christ Jesus. Romans 8:1. When he says no, he means it!
Our getting up and back into the fight helps encourage others to do the same. Isaiah 35 encourages us: With this news, strengthen those who have tired hands, and encourage those who have weak knees. Say to those with fearful hearts, Be strong, and do not fear, for your God is coming to destroy your enemies, He is coming to save you. Isaiah 25:3-4. Encouraging others also helps encourage ourselves.
Strengthening our spiritual knees is done with prayer, worship and standing on the Word. Jesus’ parable about the house built on the rock versus the house built on the sand is true. If we find ourselves wobbly in the storms, we can discover if we are really standing on Him and His Word, or ourselves? Tests and trials come. If there are weak spots in your foundation, strengthen them with the Word. Keep on pursuing Him and His ways. Strengthen those faith legs, my friend. We need you!
Father, I thank you for showing us our weak areas. I thank you we can go back to you and learn to strengthen those weak areas. Teach us to walk, with the whole armor of God, not just the parts we think are important. Teach us to wield the sword of the Spirit as well. Thank you for stronger faith legs today. In Jesus’ Name, amen.
Hear my prayer, O Lord; listen to my plea! Answer me because you are faithful and righteous. Psalm 143:1
I have begun to love this Psalm. It was written by David during some very trying times. One way we can encourage ourself in the Lord is, like David, by reminding himself of God’s character traits. He reminds God is his faithfulness and righteousness. This past week has been a tough one for me. I found myself emotionally struggling for God’s footing and direction, when I came across Psalm 143. It was like a life-line for me.
Verse three: my enemy has chased me. He has knocked me to the ground and forces me to live in darkness like those in the grave. This is literally what David had to do. He was chased by enemies and was forced to live in very dark caves to preserve his own life. Often, it seems I chase my own self into dark caves, because I get my eyes off God and His light. He promises us that He is the light in our darkness. Our enemy can try to chase us to the dark, or we can choose to run to the light. Self pity, selfishness and woe is me thoughts lead us to dark places, don’t they? Thanksgiving, gratitude and hope lead us to the light.
But David goes even deeper into his complaints. I am losing all hope; I am paralyzed with fear. When we feel all hope is gone and allow fear to step in, we can also feel paralyzed with fear. It is a horrible feeling. When Darryl had his stroke, I immediately turned to the Lord. Riding in the aide car to the hospital, I found myself praying “I am not ready to be a widow, but I throw myself on to the rock of your righteousness”. It was only by God’s grace that I knew where to turn. My heart hurts for those who do not even know they have a God they can turn to. Before Darryl became a Christian and he was in life or death situations, he told me “I never cried out to anyone. It was just me and me alone and it was scary.” We need to share the good news that there is a God and He cares.
David then begins to remind himself of God and His works. I remember days of old. I ponder all your great works and think about what you have done. I lift my hands to you in prayer. I thirst for you as parched land thirsts for rain. Comequickly, Lord, and answer me, for my depressions deepens. Don’t turn away from me, or I will die. Psalm 143: 5-7. When we go through life’s challenges (or curve balls, like last weeks post), we need to stop and be honest with the Lord. As I read this Psalm last Friday, I felt like David. I needed Him to come and show me what to do. As I shared this scripture with someone, they asked, are you depressed? I could honestly answer the situation was depressing, but no, I am not depressed. But just reading David’s honest sharing with the Lord, helped me lift my load.
I began to gain even more hope as I read on. Let me hear of your unfailing love each morning, for I am trusting you. Show me where to walk, for I give myself to you. Psalm 143:8. Oh my friends, He longs to show us where and how to walk through our difficulties. Even when He seems silent, His grace is there helping us as we give ourselves to Him.
So David is going to the Light. He continues on by verse 10Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. May your gracious Spirit lead me forward on a firm footing. For the glory of your name, O Lord, preserve my life, because of your faithfulness bring me out of this distress. In your unfailing love, silence all my enemies and destroy all my foes, for I am your servant. Psalm 143: 10-12. NLT. This is quite a different ending from David’s beginning isn’t it?
David, once again, shows us how to go through hard things. We can learn to look for the light, remembering every testimony He has already given us. Tests and trials are God’s way of enhancing our relationship with Him. David shared his feelings, but he didn’t let them hinder him from moving on. Our enemy would love to shrink our God to his size and his ways. But His ways are not only higher than our ways, they always lead us to freedom and more grace. Have you prayed about your trial, or just complained about it?? Only when we take the time to pray about things, do they really change. Usually our heart changes first, then our circumstances. We can always trust His grace to bring us through everyone. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Hebrews 4:16.
Father, I thank you for helping us in our time of need by your abundant grace. I ask you to remind us to ask for your help, no matter what we face. It is Your grace that shows up when we feel alone, depressed and paralyzed with fear. David did not stay in fear or depressed, but overcame by God’s grace, and so can we. In Jesus Name, amen.
You saw me before I was born, every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. Psalm 139:16 NLT
This scripture is such a comfort to me…especially when life’s curve balls (to me) happen! Our family has been thrown a few good size ones. The first was when my husband had his stroke in 2010 and then passed in 2012. It was a challenge, but I leaned upon Him and He held us. I learned how to manage some of life’s larger curve balls.
Two years ago, my son and his wife lost a special little girl, named Madeline, at only five months gestation. It was a rough time, not only emotionally but also physically, for my daughter-in-law. Last year, we celebrated the birth of their fourth child, another sweet girl, Sofia. However, Becca hemorrhaged soon after delivery, and we came close to losing her. So grateful for God’s grace and the hospital team that saved her life. This curve was not only unexpected, but I will admit it was traumatizing. I had to ask the Lord for restorative grace. I learned to focus on the actual good outcome, not focusing on the “what could have happened” scenarios. Thankfulness and gratitude became healing for me.
S0 this year, I was looking forward to a more “normal” summer. Celebrating with family and enjoying the Pacific Northwest’s special summer days. But, we have been challenged once again to trust our God and His plans. Our dear Becca has been diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer. Not only do I ask for your prayers, but I want to share with you some things I’ve learned from walking already through this new curve ball of life.
Once again, I am challenged to trust our God and His character. It is discovery time in my own soul of whether I trust Him or do I need to grow in more trust. My son has also been fighting sickness for quite a while, so it is hard to keep praying and expecting health and there hasn’t been a breakthrough. I felt the Holy Spirit asked me if I trusted Him with my son. I had to stop and consider. We know the journey and diagnosis that Becca faces, but they can’t seem to figure out what’s wrong with him. I had to admit to the Lord that it was scary and frustrating to keep expecting him to rise up healed. I know it will happen. I read something yesterday about delayed or seemingly unanswered prayers. When we get frustrated or angry because they aren’t answered we can change our perspective and spend the time praying to get to know Him better. Our time spent asking is not in vain and we need to continue with the knowledge and peace that the answer and timing is in His hands. But the more we wait with Him, the more we grow in our relationship with Him. The promises in His Word have become even more precious to me, a deeper learning lesson.
I woke up about 2:30 a.m. praying for them, this morning. As I talked to the Lord about them, He showed me the need for someone to help with the baby during the day. My son asked me if I could hang out with their one-year-old today, as the Lord had already shown me! So another lesson I keep learning is trusting Him to set the course of my day. God had already shown me the need! As I drove to their home, I talked to the Lord about how to best to help them get the most rest. I asked if I could bring her back to my house, and they said yes. My lesson in dealing with life’s curve balls is obeying the Holy Spirit.
As I rocked her to sleep listening to my Spotify prayer channel, we both rested in the Presence of the Lord. I figured out how to transfer her to the couch…and she slept much longer than her normal morning nap. As we sat together, I realized that part of God’s character is that He sits with us and loves us amid of our challenging times. When we understand the truth of 1 John 4:13 it becomes easier to trust. We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love. Reminding myself of God’s love for each of our family members is always a good start for life’s curve balls.
Another thing I have learned about life’s curve balls is they don’t come alone. They are usually multifaceted and multilevel. In our situation, we also get to walk the journey with their four children. We are helping them through their fears and concerns. It is one thing to trust the Lord with your own health, but another with our children and grandchildren. I know He is teaching us all lessons in his faithfulness. It is part of dealing with life’s curve balls, isn’t it?
We’ve learned you need a team. These bigger balls can’t be handled by themselves. God has provided a wonderful support team with Becca’s parents and her sister. They actually live next door. We They have their own challenges too…so we need good communication. When life throws you curve balls, make sure you have a team. It is best to develop those relationships pre-curve, but sometimes God sends you added experienced team members in the midst. People who have been through what you are going through can be great encouragers!
Life’s curve balls happen to everyone. You are not alone. Life’s curve balls can either make us bitter, or better. We can grow in our compassion or withdraw inside ourselves. Or maybe for a season, as we adjust, a bit of both. But the good news is He understands. He is not caught unaware of our days, our experiences and our challenges. I believe we will move through this challenge stronger than ever. We are celebrating so many areas where God has already answered with a yes. But we still need to rehearse that through praise, thanksgiving and reminding ourselves during the tougher times. If you are struggling mid curve, take the time to examine your wins. Because of His goodness, I know you have them.
This journey will not be easy, but we believe with God’s help, it is doable. We expect to learn much along the way, but also are choosing to live and enjoy, as best as possible, life each day. I know there will probably be more curve balls ahead, but we trust Him even more than ever.
Father, it isnot only encouraging that you have recorded the days of our life, but we know that You’ve determined that these things are going to work out for good for everyone concerned. Please help us trust You with every curve ball this life has for us. In Jesus’ Name, amen.
Therefore, encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 NLT.
Over the past five months, workers have been re-building and restoring a mess in my back room. It has taken much longer than any of us wanted because of water damage that went undetected for years. This past week they finished their portion. We polished and sealed the concrete to prevent any potential future issues. It feels so good to get to this point.
However, we still aren’t finished. My contractor told me in the beginning that he doesn’t do finishing work…like taping and mudding. He said, “I am just not good at it!”. So as grateful as I am that we have an enclosed room, with insulation, drywall and windows…I still can’t set up the room for use. It is not finished. The future use is closer than before, but it isn’t complete.
In the back of my mind, I always knew we would get it done, but it has taken so much longer than expected because of the greater damage that had been done, I had to work on keeping myself encouraged. My contractor had other jobs to complete, but did his best to accommodate mine. It just has taken time. It happens with people as well.
We might expect our children to understand life’s basics before they actually do. I remember when my firstborn was almost two, and I was expecting her to know she was to sit still and be quiet during church services. I said, “you know you are supposed to be quiet”. The Holy Spirit stopped me quickly, and said “when do you think she learned that?”. I realized I had never taken the time to teach her! It was a sudden realization that she wasn’t born with my knowledge and insight. Someone (me), had to teach her. God wants to teach us new things as He builds in us His character and wisdom, but we must be teachable and submit to Him as our teacher if we want the ultimate benefit and results.
As I watched the rebuilding process of my room, I realized there were definite steps he had to take to get to the final result I wanted and was paying for! Who knew we needed to put in French drains–what did that have to do with my room? I learned that the outside drainage of my home affects the inside. I had to trust his knowledge of building and codes were up to date and he knew what he was doing. Are you trusting God’s building work in your life? Is He working in an area of your life you thought should already be finished? If you are upset about it, it probably means you are quite perfected in that area, right?
My room isn’t done. I could decide to “make do” with it the way it is, but ultimately, no amount of decorating would cover an unfinished room. It is the same with God’s work in us. He, the master builder, is the one who decides when His work is finished in us. I may think I have enough fruit of the Spirit to get by and He begins to dig about, prune and fertilize areas I think are ok. Do I work with Him? Or do I get frustrated and try to avoid His digging?
A few years ago, my grandson took a class in shed building through our Home Connections Homeschooling program. This included learning how to tape and mud drywall joints. He gets to practice his skills on my room. I am not expecting a professional job, but I do expect him to do a decent one. These are skills that will help him later in life, and minimally will create memories for both of us.
We are all under construction. Do not grow weary in your construction or in the construction of others around you. Keep on encouraging each other and building one another up. You won’t regret it. A few years ago I prayed for a young man whose art work I saw in a school hallway. I prayed for his future and God’s will and direction. This is the young man who worked in my room. I had asked many others, but this was the one who said “yes”. Only our God knew my need and his.
Be encouraged, my friends, no matter what is going on in your life. Our God sees, hears, and is working good things for your present and your future. It is not easy, nor was it promised to be so, but it is going to be good.
Father, I trust you to finish the good work you have begun in all our lives. Help us work with you, not against what you are trying to do. We trust you. Make us into your image, not our own thoughts of what we think that should be. In Jesus‘ name, amen.
Sing a new song of praise to him, Play skillfully on the harp and sing with joy. For the word of the Lord holds true, and we can trust everything he does. Psalm 33:3,4 NLT.
When I was in high school, I auditioned for choir (because my best friend was in it), I made it, but not by much. I am not a natural singer. So being honest with you, reading all the scriptures about singing a new song seems a bit vague and “for someone else”. But lately, I realize that we all sing a song–a song of the heart and soul.
I think we have songs of joy, songs of mourning, songs of hope and unfortunately, songs of discouragement. These heart songs are usually a result of our life experiences, not necessarily based on God and His will. If we are feeling based, our songs can see-saw between several tunes in one day! As I meditate on my own heart song, I remember songs of mourning, sadness and even songs of doubt. I also see where God worked to change my tune! He still is.
As I lean into His love more and more, I sing a new song! It has been a subtle day by day change. Every time I see His handiwork in the lives of those around me, my tune changes. As I seek Him and understand His faithfulness, my tune changes. How about you? Have you noticed any changes in your tunes?
God’s Word instructs us to sing a new song whenever He does a new thing in our lives. Gratitude and thankfulness help me change my tune from mumbling and grumbling to faith. I came across this scripture today: But giving thanks is a sacrifice that truly honors me. If you keep to my path. I will reveal to you the salvation of God. Psalm 50:21. NLT. There is something about giving thanks from a truly thankful heart that changes our tune. It causes us to sing a new song because of fresh revelation and reminds of all the benefits our salvation brings us.
When scriptures exhort us to sing a new song, they are urging us to sing a song of faith, a song of hope, and a song of joy. They cause us to meditate on the goodness, power and might of our God and get our eyes off ourselves and our circumstances. The other day I was struggling. I was supposed to go to a meeting, but I was tired and tempted to “skip” it. I knew I shouldn’t, so I put on my Spotify prayer and worship channel. As I listened, my heart responded. I entered into someone else’s new song and it helped change my own tune. I am grateful for songwriters who have the gift of putting my emotions, thoughts, and faith into singable lyrics. They help me communicate and express emotions I can’t even put into words.
We must allow the Holy Spirit to help us change our tune. He wants to help us bring glory to the Father. Scriptures talk about songs of lament, and at the appropriate time they are so helpful.
God wants to help us sing an authentic song. I remember when I was in college and prayed to receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Alone, in my dorm room, I asked Jesus for this special gift. The reality of how real Jesus really is was made known to me in the early morning hours, as I was supposed to be studying for a geology test. I went to the only Christian I knew in my dorm the next morning at breakfast, and said, “Marilyn, Jesus is really real!” She looked at me strangely, and said, “Yes, I know”. The reality of my experience with Him made me sing a different tune…a tune with conviction. I believe when we have a new revelation of Him, we will sing a new tune. A five-year-old singing the blessing of marriage is not really believable. A man happily married for 50 years would be much more believable. Our tune changes the longer we walk with our Savior, and that is a good thing. We can ask Him to refresh our song or even teach us a new one! It brings Him joy and glory.
Father, I thank you for the new songs. I ask you to help us change our tunes when we need to. I thank you for songs of joy, songs of life, and songs that bring you honor. Forgive us for singing songs of moaning, songs of complaint and help us honor you with our heart songs. In Jesus’ Name, amen.
Faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:
I had the privilege of watching the movie “Unsung Hero” this week. I laughed and cried as I watched the true story of this family face life challenges together. Because of financial issues, the Smallbone family of eight left Australia, pursuing an apparent open door in Nashville, TN. The door quickly closed, and they were left with a rented home, with no car or furniture. The mom was pregnant with her seventh child. This amazing mom made them beds from clothes in their suitcase. The parents came together as a team and so did the children. Often children are sheltered from the issues of life, but in this case, they had to work as a team. They prayed as a family and watched as God answered their prayers. It was often the mom’s perspective of seeing these difficulties as opportunities and adventures that held the family together. It caused them to all grow in faith and trust in the Lord. It reminded me of some difficulties my husband and I walked through following the Lord. I now see God was using them for good for my children’s sake.
Difficulties can make us or break us, it is true. Do we believe “he is a very present help in the time of trouble” or not? These were teaching moments for their children. I didn’t google the movie before I watched it. I knew it was advertised to be about “For King and Country” a male duo group. I did not know that out of this family came Rebecca St. James and the men in For King and Country are her brothers! Rebecca St. James is a singer/song writer that has encouraged many through her music. This movie is the true story of how God worked in and through her life.
As they rolled the credits, they included updates on the children and what they are doing as adults. It’s amazing that they are each accomplished in their fields. The difficulties they faced actually gave them a platform of faith for their current future. Praying with your children and modeling faith in a good God who does good things is always a good thing. Instead of turning away from the God of their parents, they are pursuing Him.
I am proud of my daughters as they are examples of faith, as well. I watch them encourage their children to trust the God we trusted in when they were children. They are married to men of faith and for that I am so grateful, but I watch them implementing some of the things we imparted to them, it makes my heart glad they have the same foundation. There were times we could have given in to fear and given up on trusting God, but by His grace we didn’t. We kept trusting and watching Him show up. He is still showing up, my friends. He is still trustworthy. Our son walks in the same trust, in the midst of difficult situations. He and his wife, Becca are a faith team as well.
When Darryl and I married, we chose to follow Him and His ways. We didn’t give up on Him or each other, but leaned on Him and sought after His ways. Active faith was evident in our lives, because we needed Him, and still do! My friends, don’t give up. He is trustworthy, no matter the trials or troubles you face. Release your faith today. Put Him and His ways first, you will never regret it.
When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. Isaiah 43:2-3. NLT. Remember, He is able to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Ephesians 3:20. So ask largely for His grace, glory and purpose for every trouble, difficulty or trial you might be facing. Do not give in to depression or discouragement. Stir up your faith in who you are trusting. He is more than able, my friends. Instead of asking “why” am I here in this trial, ask Him what He wants to do in and through it. If you are going to be going through it, it might as well be for His glory, right? Cry if you have to, but cry with Him. Your story doesn’t catch Him off guard, but by acknowledging Him makes you even more aware of His presence and purpose in your life.
Father, help us release our faith in even greater ways. Show us how to glorify your name by trusting you. I thank you for the challenges we have faced in the past and how you showed up. We overcome by the blood of the lamb and our testimonies. Thank you for each one. Help us to not let fear direct our paths, but faith. In Jesus’ Name, amen.
Faith Encounters 