Faith and “Faith Legs”

June 6, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

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.

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Faith and Once Again God’s Grace

May 30, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

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. Come quickly, 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.

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Faith and Life’s Curve Balls

May 24, 2024 Martha Rodman2 Comments

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 is not 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.

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Faith and Building

May 16, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

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.

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Faith and Singing a New Song

May 9, 2024 Martha Rodman1 Comment

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.

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Faith

May 2, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

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.

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Faith and Heart Sickness

April 25, 2024 Martha Rodman2 Comments

I am sick at heart. How long O Lord, until you restore me? Psalm 6:3

These past few weeks I haven’t felt well. Congestion, coughing, fatigue and sinus issues were robbing me of my focus and well being. I called to make Drs. appointment, but he was on vacation, so it took two weeks. I thought, surely I will be better by then, but in fact it was worse. He ordered a chest x-ray, put me on antibiotics and recommended the usual OTC meds and rest.

Then, Sunday morning as I read Psalm 6, I came across this little verse where David confessed, “I am sick at heart.” I realized that not only was my body sick, but my heart was as well. I confessed to the Lord: “I admit to you this is where I am, right or wrong. My heart is sick.” It took courage to admit it. It was humbling. It was also freeing.

One description of a sick heart is one that is grieving, very disappointed, and feeling dejected. Some of life’s realities have caught me off guard lately. Unexpected difficult diagnosis, unexpected loss, or my feeling of inadequacy have left my heart feeling sick.

David goes on in the rest of the verse, “How long, O Lord, until you restore me?” As I meditated on that verse, I realized what David must have. I can’t restore my own heart. I need Him to do it. I need to trust Him to help me. Even with David asking the Lord, “how long” there is an element that it will happen. He expected to be restored. I got real honest with myself and Him. How about you? Are there any parts of your heart that may be sick? Do you have the courage to admit it? It happens to all of us, eventually. Confessing my emotions and thoughts to Him began to bring relief.

I kept reading Psalm after Psalm. Seeing myself in some of them, and being encouraged as David and the other writers shared their own struggles, was like sitting under a waterfall shower. I felt washed and free. My heart’s restoration had begun.

But I also felt unexpectedly exhausted. I went to bed and slept for two hours, woke up and went back to sleep for more. This is not something I usually can do during the day, but I woke refreshed, strengthened both in my heart and my body. For this, I am very thankful.

I asked the Lord, “how do I protect my heart from getting sick?” Then I thought maybe the right question would be first, “Can I protect my heart from getting sick?” I think that is probably more accurate. I think in our fallen world, it isn’t practical to think we won’t suffer disappointment, dejection or grief. It is one of the side effects of loving people. Our heart hurts for them and with them.

What am I trying to say? Don’t keep pushing through, or pretending your heart is ok, when it isn’t. Take the time to take it to the Lord and let Him restore your soul. Part of hurting with others is part of our fellowshipping in His suffering. He gets it and He cares that we do. We are called to bear or share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. Galatians 6: 2.NLT. Helping lift their load requires us to get close and personal, and that may involve some hurt. It is part of the loving package. But don’t forget, we also get to rejoice with those who rejoice! Romans 12:15. NLT.

Father, I ask that you examine our hearts and see if we are carrying any heart sickness. Please bring your restoration to those areas and help us not to be afraid of heart pain, because you aren’t. Thank you for bearing our burdens and teaching us to carry others, In Jesus’ Name, amen.

Photo by Karolina Grabowska on Pexels.com

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Faith and Partial Obedience

April 11, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams. 1 Samuel 15:22. NLT.

Does anyone else do a quick spiritual check up when you hear or read this verse? The context of this verse is difficult. The first king of Israel, Saul, had some serious character flaws. God gave him, through the prophet Samuel, very strict instructions to him concerning their long-time enemies, the Amalekites. This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies has declared: I have decided to settle accounts with the nation of Amalek for opposing Israel when they came from Egypt. Now go and completely destroy the entire Amalekite nation–men, women, children, babies, cattle, sheep, goats, camels and donkeys. 1 Samuel 15:2. NLT. These types of instructions are difficult to read (and write!), but it was clearly God’s will to deal with them in this manner. { For reference to the “whys” you can read Exodus 17: 8-10, Numbers 24:20, and Deuteronomy 25:17.} King Saul was very clear on what the assignment was. Unfortunately, he only partially completed the job. He captured Agag, the Amalekite king, but completely destroyed everyone else. Saul and his men spared Agag’s life and kept the best of the sheep and goats, the cattle, the fat calves, and the lambs, everything, in fact that appealed to them. They destroyed only what was worthless or of poor quality. 1 Samuel 15:8-9. NLT. Saul took it upon himself what part of God’s instructions were worth following, and which weren’t.

He then blames the army and the people. He even tried justifying his actions by saying they were going to use the animals as a sacrifice to the Lord. But neither Samuel nor the Lord buys it. My friends, God is looking for full obedience from us as He was with Saul. What happens when He tasks us with an assignment has to do with revealing what is in our heart. I must admit, I too, am guilty of partial obedience.

But, not to boast, there have been times when I actually obeyed His personal instruction for my life. So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do. Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Galatians 5:15-17. When I was 21, I went to a New Year’s Eve party. My friend served wine coolers. It was the first time I had actually had a drink. I was nervous but also happy to celebrate as an “adult”. I really liked the taste and the feeling. I only had one and a half drinks, but because of my “virgin” situation. I could feel the effects. As I went to bed that night, clearly and directly, I heard the Holy Spirit tell me I can’t do that, because I liked it too much. It was so clear and resonated in my spirit that I knew it was the voice of wisdom speaking.

I felt God’s love and care for me through those words, but I also heard the warning. By His grace, and His alone, I listened and obeyed. I clearly knew what the Holy Spirit was saying to me. To ignore His words of advice would be to act thoughtlessly. Since then, I have seen the devastation alcohol addiction has on families. A college friend spent time in jail for a manslaughter conviction where alcohol was involved. Another friend’s son died at a young age because of the abuse alcohol did on his body. I don’t know what the cost of disobeying His word to me would have been, but I know that my children have not had to pay that cost. I am grateful for God’s yeses and His nos. I don’t judge others who choose to drink alcohol. It is between them and the Lord. The scriptures obviously do not prohibit it. But for me, it is a “no”, and I am ok with it.

Saul’s partial obedience cost him his relationship with the Lord, as well as Samuel. I wonder what my “part obedience” in other things has cost me. I know He is a merciful and forgiving God, but I also know we can’t expect partial obedience to bring us the blessings and benefit of full obedience. I think when we pick and choose the things we are obedient to is actually setting ourselves up as the god of our life. It is overstepping our bounds as His followers, never a life-giving move for anyone, right?

Friends, I am not perfect at this either. The good news is we have a forgiving Savior that knows how to convict us and help us. I want to see the fruits of obedience in my life, no matter the cost because I can trust Him that they will be good.

Father, please forgive our partial obedience to You. I know when we truly realize that You are Lord of our Life it is the best decision to make, no matter how we may perceive the cost. Help us to learn from Saul’s mistakes. Lead us and teach us to not only listen, but to obey, in Jesus’ Name, amen.

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Faith and Worry

April 4, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28-30.

Don’t you love the encouragement found in this scripture? When I read it, it is like a refreshing cup of water reminding me that all I have to do when I feel overwhelmed with worry or anxiety, to simply come to Him. Not to the TV, not to books or food, but come to the one who really is in charge of my life. When I do come in humility and sincerity, I find rest for my soul, along with grace for the right yoke and burden that I am supposed to be carrying.

I spent some time this morning reading through an old journal. This journal began in August 2012 when I was still a caregiver for my husband. It took me through his subsequent heart attack and a blood clot which lodged in his right leg that took his life. As I reminisced about this tough season, I was reminded of God’s faithfulness. August 23, 2012, I wrote: I don’t know how to take care of Darryl. I get so scared that I am paralyzed to move ahead. I need you to give me wisdom and insight. I am glad for the little things that show healing and development. I do not want to be a whiner or a crier. I need you to help me. I trust you. Today, we shall move ahead. I shall have a productive day. Satan shall not win. Is the paralyzed feeling coming from “do the right thing”? Afraid to do wrong? Be wrong? (Apparently I was reading in Colossians, for I went on to write:)

Colossians 3: receive: let the peace of God rule in your hearts. Remain: let the word of God richly dwell within you. Respond: whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father. Remember: Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are beneath, for you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God. So here I am, waiting, trusting, needing you more than ever. Yes, Lord come, deliver me once again from myself…from the good girl mask.

Little did I know that six weeks later, I would be a widow. My caregiving was over. My prayers for wisdom and insight would be answered unexpectedly with my Darryl’s passing. Looking back at those days, I remember feeling so much pressure to do and be the “right” thing for Darryl and a concern for being and doing the “right” thing as a Christian–hence the “good girl mask” statement. I’m proud of myself for “coming” to the Lord with my fears and concerns. As I continued to read through this journal, I found so many times where I came to Him for help and guidance, crying out as David did for his help. Listen closely to my prayer, O Lord; heart my urgent cry. I will call to you whenever I’m in trouble, and you will answer me. Psalm 86:6-7. NLT. My current journal reflects the same cry for help as well, but also increased statements of trusting Him, so growth!

Dear friends, He is able and so willing to help us in our time of need. Do not be afraid to come to Him, as you are right now. Praying through those things that you are struggling with. He truly is our help in time of need. Don’t wait till you are overwhelmed, but meet with Him daily to sort through the things that are trying to distract or discourage you, before they just get bigger; robbing you of your joy.

Father, I thank you for this wonderful reminder that we can come to you and find rest for our souls, no matter our situation and circumstance. The rest and relief as we come is so amazing. It changes our perspective and restores hope. Thank you, dear Lord, for truly being a help in our time of need. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

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Faith and Worship Reset

March 28, 2024 Martha Rodman1 Comment

You must worship only the Lord you God. He is the one who will rescue from your enemies. 2 Kings 17:39 NLT.

I have a confession to make. Sometimes I like to skip over introductions and prefaces, and get to the “meat” of the things. I discovered I do that a lot when I am praying. This means I often just jump in to talking to the Lord about my issues or my friends and family concerns. I do this without taking the time to worship and honor Him. It means I have inadvertently developed a habit and left out an important part of prayer: worship. I know that there are several different types of prayer: thanksgiving, intercession, adoration and supplication, for example. But I felt the Holy Spirit touch this area in my prayer life for a re-set.

I am changing my ways, not legalistically, but relationally. Now, as I take the time to stop and acknowledge Him with a worshipful and honoring heart, it is like a reset. Worship is an attitude of the heart and when our attitude is in order, it affects our actions. I so appreciate it when my grandchildren take the time to ask me for a snack, rather than assuming they can barge in and raid my snack cupboard! Even though, it is where they will end up going anyway, after I usually say “yes”. I think it must be the same with our Lord. I didn’t mean to be disrespectful or dishonoring to Him, but now that I have consciously added it back, it has been a blessing.

Worship re-focuses me on who He is. It is a humbling position where we bow our heart before Him. When I do, I find it resets my heart and focuses on what is important, not necessarily urgent. My quick prayers are heard, I know, but they don’t really build the relationship I want with Him. Including a time of worship brings re-connection in some new ways.

When Jesus was teaching his disciples how to pray, He left us a pattern found in Matthew 6. Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy. As I read through this passage again, I found myself repenting for my arrogance. The first thing Jesus wants is His Father’s name to be kept holy and honored. I love the scripture in Hebrews that reminds us we can come boldly into the throne of God in our time of need. (Hebrews 4:16) But making a habit of not taking the time to honor and acknowledge Him in His position eventually robs me of the deeper relationship I long to have with Him. The joy of sitting quietly, acknowledging Him and His position in my life, has added such and awareness of His presence into every area of my life.

Maybe, this is just my personal issue. If so, that’s ok. Making a habit to consciously, respectfully honor Him and His position with my words, not just my heart has been a good thing for me. Does He want to make any changes in your life?

As we approach this Easter and all the celebration, help us honor and glorify you in whatever way You desire. You are so worthy, my Lord of all our praise and worship.

Heavenly Father, I thank you for teaching me how to honor and worship you through prayer. Please keep on working to teach us your heart and your ways. Thank you, for loving us enough to keep perfecting us, no matter what the area. In Jesus’ Name, amen.