Faith and Walking through Shadows

April 17, 2025 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Psalm 23:4 NLT.

In 1981, while my husband was on a ministry trip to Texas, the Holy Spirit asked him a question. “Darryl, do you have a desire for a son?” As he searched his heart, he told the Lord, “you know, I do”. He called me from Texas and shared that conversation with me. We had already discussed having more children, and he told me he was content with our two beautiful daughters. Rosanna was going to be seven, Elizabeth five. I had already prayed to be content with these two. We were done with diapers, cribs and sleepless nights, but I did some more praying (of course I said, yes!)

This pregnancy was hard. I had extreme morning sickness (all day long!). Then I started spotting blood. My doctor advised bed rest, so that’s what I did. It wasn’t easy with two active girls. This bed rest gave me lots of time to think and pray. I wrestled with God’s question: if this was the promised son, then why was it so hard? Suppose I miscarried? How do I reconcile the two? I processed my trust in God’s Word. I navigated the pregnancy hormones and emotions. I tried to understand what my body was apparently doing. I struggled. One day, I read this verse. “Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil”. Such peace came over me. If, for some reason, I lost this pregnancy, there would be no evil in it. If I carried the baby to full term, there would also be no evil in it, even if it was a girl. For God is the author of life. The very next day, the bleeding stopped!

That scripture goes on to say, I will for no evil, for thou are with me. He is with us through every shadow of doubt and fear. If you are struggling with belief in His goodness through your situation, take heart. His rod and His staff are protecting you if you let Him. The rod is symbolic of God’s protection and discipline. The staff is used for guidance and support. Turn to Him and let Him guide you to safe places in your thoughts and emotions.

Andrew Lloyd Rodman was born September 9, 1982, very healthy and has been such a blessing to our family. The peace that came when I submitted to trusting God’s Word in this matter is hard to describe. This week, the doctors placed my sister Carol in hospice care. It was not unexpected, but still difficult to hear. Hospice care happens when the doctors feel a person has less than six months to live. Carol has been fighting Parkinson’s for several years.

Carol has been the glue that has kept our unusual family together. She was eleven when we were born. Our sister Laura was 4. Because of our mother’s mental condition, Carol and Laura were placed in foster care, and we were placed for adoption. Eventually, Carol and Laura were adopted into separate families as well. Through God’s amazing answer to prayer, we were reunited at 15. Carol was the big sister we didn’t know we needed! Carol is number four of eight children. We were numbers 6, 7 and 8! This valley is not easy for any of us.

The good news is Carol loves the Lord, and we know she will be with Him. My heart goes out to her two dear daughters who have taken such good care of her. It is difficult to navigate the hard decisions that come with end-of-life care. I know from personal experience, there will be a big hole in their hearts and lives when she goes. There is no evil in her passing. Parkinson’s diagnosis is not an easy one, and like all sicknesses and diseases, the result of the Fall.

Our hope lies in the resurrection, doesn’t it? This life has its difficult moments, for sure. The passing of loved ones is one of the hardest parts. But we take comfort in the words of 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14: But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For we believe that Jesus died and rose again. Through Jesus, God will also bring with him those who have fallen asleep.

My friends, love well those you care about. Allow the Holy Spirit to help you navigate the difficult conversations. Accept the reality that none of us leave this world alive. Our real life will start when we see Him…aren’t you glad we have a Savior?

Father, I ask you to help us understand in a deeper manner how to navigate every valley that looks like death, and every valley that does lead to a death. Whether it is the death of dreams, or the death of a loved one. We choose to trust you, In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Uncategorized

Faith and Courage

April 11, 2025 Martha Rodman1 Comment

The Lord God is my strength [my source of courage, my invincible army]; He has made my feet [steady and sure] like hinds feet. And makes me walk [forward with spiritual confidence] on my high places [of challenge and responsibility]. Habakkuk 3:19 Amp.

I love this verse in the Amplified version. Do you ever personalize scripture with your name in it? The Lord God is Martha’s strength[Martha’s source of courage, Martha’s invincible army]; He has made Martha’s feet [steady and sure] like hinds feet. Put your own name in, and no matter how weak or strong you feel, it gives you extra courage! When we forget He is our strength, we end up relying on our own strength. That strength is very weak and wimpy compared to His. This is just a simple reminder that you can do whatever He has called you to do. Especially if you need courage to do it!

This week, my two sisters and my niece drove over the mountains to visit our older sister. It will most likely be the last time we will see her. She is in late stage Parkinson’s disease. This was a trip we tried to plan before, but either the weather or our schedule prevented us. Carol had trouble processing who we were, which was understandably difficult. It was such a blessing to be with her daughter, Patty, whom we haven’t seen in years. Sharing memories with her was important. My niece drove us, and she shared wonderful memories that she had with Carol as well. But it took courage to look at our sister and see how her body is failing. I kept thinking, ten years ago she was active and well, how will I be in ten years? Only God knows. It takes courage to grow older.

It is my job to be as wise as I can with my body, soul, and mind. The courage I need today is not the same courage I needed in my twenty’s or thirty’s. As I read this scripture in my twenty’s, I could only think about emotional or spiritual hind’s feet. Now, I need to make sure I can walk steadily! He has made my feet [steady and sure] like hinds feet. I have watched deer leaping from crag to crag. They seem to do it effortlessly. They even do it with joy! My friend’s husband is now a patient in a rehabilitation facility. He fell two months ago and apparently hit his head. They are trying to help him overcome an un-diagnosed brain bleed. We are praying for recovery of strength and memory issues, but at 88 they aren’t sure. It takes courage to walk through their season of life, trusting God has everything in hand. She needs our prayer and support to help her courageously face their uncertain future. I told her today, sometimes faith can seem wobbly, but that is OK. She is doing well with Jesus. It also takes courage to walk with others through their dark valleys, but we can do it.

I love the last section, where Habakkuk declares: he makes me walk [forward with spiritual confidence] on my high places [of challenge and responsibility]. It is God’s intention that His children walk forward in life, but that they do so with spiritual confidence. The only way we can gain this spiritual confidence is to do it with Him. My friends, I know as you face your own challenges and responsibilities, fear may try to raise its ugly head. But I want to remind you that you can do it with His wisdom, strength and courage. You are not alone, aren’t you glad?

The high places of life can be scary. They can be areas where life is trying to elevate itself above our God. In the Old Testament, people worshiped idols and engaged in demonic practices at the high places. We do not have to worry about them. In fact, God has given us the ability to ‘ride upon the high places of the earth’ (Isaiah 58:14). He has given us a position of advantage and blessing, and favor.

Photo by Jędrzej Koralewski on Pexels.com

We can walk in confidence and courage as we strengthen ourselves in Him. Do not try to do life alone my friends. It will be less than He intends. He has good things for us to discover as we walk with Him, in the valley or on the mountains. Our best life is with Him.

Father, please help us walk with you with confidence and courage. Thank you for steadying every wobbly place we find ourselves. You are such a gracious God, and we settle for so much less than you have for us, so often. Please help us, Father. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

Uncategorized

Faith and Burden Bearing

April 4, 2025 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2. NLT.

When you read this scripture, how does it make you feel? Scared? Happy to help other’s ? Glad there should be others to help you? Did you read the last part..and in this way to obey the law of Christ. There is something a little more serious and commanding when I hear the word law! How about to you? Laws are usually not considered optional for most people!

So it seems if we want to obey the law of Christ, we need to share, carry or bear each others burdens. So the question is, how do we do that? Let’s put it in context with the verse above it. Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back on the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself. Galatians 6:1. Paul admits here, that some believers will struggle with sin. It is our responsibility to help them overcome this sin. This is the first way we can help bear someone else’s burden. But it comes with some stipulations.

One, we must do it gently and humbly. I take this to mean no added judgment or shame. Our goal is to restore them to full fellowship. If we emotionally find ourselves appalled at the persons sin, we need to take some time and go back to the cross ourselves. It is so easy to let judgment and condemnation sneak in, which defeats the purpose. Only when we remember our own need for a Savior can we truly help with the ministry of reconciliation. Jesus warned the Pharisees about not added more weight to them. “For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers” (Matt. 23:4.

If you have been praying for loved ones and co-workers, you must take the time to examine your own heart. Our pastor preached about our church being a welcoming church for all. It is with the understanding that transformation is God’s desire. I began to examine my own heart, thinking about what types of people would I find difficult to really receive. I admit, some showed up. I was humbled and convicted as His Spirit showed me those who He loves, but I struggle with. The good news is I can see how I have grown in opening my heart to more than before!

As I listened to this message, I also prayed for clearer steps our church can have for discipleship. If we believe God’s salvation message is for everyone, and transformation is also for everyone, then we must understand it is a process. The next question that came was , am I willing to be part of that transformation? The good news is this law of Christ is the law of love. This love applies to both myself and others. It’s not about me willing myself to get rid of judgment. It is up to me to let His love keep transforming me and you.

Faith, which works by love, is released. God’s Spirit begins to move with loving conviction and restoration takes place. We must see our brother and sister as valuable to the Kingdom. We must understand that Satan seeks to destroy them through their sin. We have been given the joy to help them overcome! But that can’t happen if we don’t have the faith to believe in God’s transforming power. Do you believe He can change the people you pray for? Or is it just something you do out of obligation?

The Word promises us that Jesus came to seek and to save all that was lost. When this truth radiates in our spirit, we will become a tool He can truly use. Spending time with Him, getting to know His love for yourself, will help us learn to love others, and this truly does fulfill the law of Christ–the law of love.

Father, thank you for helping us grow in this area. We desperately need your help to love others in a way that surpasses their faults. Even if they hurt us, we should assist in restoring them gently and humbly. Deal with our pride, and arrogance in every area, so we don’t fall into judgment and criticism. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.com

Uncategorized

Faith and Reminders

March 13, 2025 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

Therefore, I will always remind you about these things–even though you already know them and are standing firm in the truth you have been taught. And it is only right that I should keep reminding you as long as I live. 2 Peter 1:12-13.

Reminders, we all need them. This weekend our church celebrated their 50th Anniversary! We were wonderfully reminded of the history and blessing of Life Church, Oak Harbor. It reminded me of what our God can do when people say yes to God’s purpose and plan.

The unique blessing of our church, is that in the 50 years, we have only had 3 pastors. In 1975, our founding pastor Jim and his wife Roberta Cargill received an invitation. They were asked to hold a meeting in Oak Harbor, Washington. They had been doing traveling ministry with their two children, and felt it was time to come off the road. Oak Harbor was God’s direction, and the fledgling church came to being. Lighthouse Christian Tabernacle moved from rental space to rental space as they grew. Finally, a parcel of land became available and they trusted God for provision. Not one, but two buildings were eventually erected on the site. In 1993, Pastor Jim, through the leading of the Holy Spirit turned the leadership over to his son, Marc Cargill.

The church continued to grow and develop under Marc and his wife’s Cheryl’s leadership. Many of the outreach programs they developed are still touching lives today. God began stirring Marc and Cheryl’s heart toward the south lands. But what to do with this church? After much prayer and seeking God’s will, Pastor Michael and Reshaun Hurley were asked to prayerfully consider taking the helm. They joined the church staff and about two years later, they were set in as lead pastors in 2010. It was an amazingly smooth transition, marked by God’s grace and peace.

The church continues to grow and develop, with a name change to Life Church. Our 50th Celebration Sunday was the beginning of transitioning to three services. We can only give thanks and honor to the Lord for His amazing favor. People are getting saved and maturing at our church. Pastor Michael is a man of integrity, a hardworking man who loves God and His people. Our mission is to encourage people to invite, love, and transform. His authentic transparency and care for others is amazing. He and Reshaun’s hearts are here to serve the Lord and bring glory to His name.

At the celebration, all three pastoral teams were represented. The founding pastor, Jim Cargill is now with Jesus, but his wife Roberta was there. I know there must have been times they wondered, is it worth it? Fortunately, a few months before Jim’s passing, he visited the church. It was wonderful to hear how it blessed him to see God’s handiwork.

Who knows what obedience to God’s call will bring? I am sharing this story to remind us it is always worth it to follow and obey the Lord. Pastor Jim was bi-vocational for many years. Listening to the stories of his faithful service to our Lord was humbling and motivating. Darryl and I joined the church in 2002, under Pastor Marc. So I have almost been there for half the history! Pastor Marc and Pastor Michael honor and support each other. This is another hallmark of God’s favor and grace.

Another remarkable story that’s developed in these 50 years is about our Associate Pastor, Joshua Hubbard. Josh came to the church as a young boy and served under all three pastors! He shared that under Jim and Roberta he stacked chairs! I am so thankful that he (and now his wonderful family) has stayed the course. My friends, this is a reminder to sow good seeds and trust God will water them! Watching him grow and develop over the years is a testimony of God’s faithfulness. It is heartwarming to watch our young people grow into leaders right before our eyes. It is a reminder that God is always working His plan for the future.

We were reminded about the necessity of prayer. The prayers of the early members is the foundation for our present blessing. Our prayers for the future are being laid now. What a joy to pray in faith for God’s will to keep on being done!

There is much more land to take. We were reminded that we’ve only just begun. Once more I remembered the blessing of surrender. I realized that God gives the increase. I felt the privilege of being part of His Kingdom.

This is a reminder to pray for, give guidance to, and encourage the younger ones in our midst. Not one of these leaders would tell you they are perfect, or have done things perfectly. But each one of them has a heart to seek the Lord for His will, not their own. I pray that the seeds God has allowed me to sow for His kingdom will bear long-lasting fruit. Oh my friends, do not give up. Do not despair, God sees your hard work. He sees your tiredness, and He says, keep going. I will strengthen you. I will help you. Trust me. Do not let the enemy distract you or turn you aside from your plowing. You will reap. It is in His hands when that reaping will occur, so simply take this reminder and keep going. Pastor Jim and Roberta did. Some of the amazing seeds sown through their ministry are still serving God and bearing even more fruit.

Father, I thank you for reminding us not to quit. I ask you to strengthen any weak hands and feeble knees that may struggle today. I thank you for the reminder of the blessing of obedience and we walk by faith not by sight. I thank you that we are privileged to see what Jim and Roberta hoped for and is now a reality. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

Uncategorized

Faith and Heart Honesty

March 6, 2025 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

But when I am afraid, I will put my trust in you. Psalm 56:3. NLT.

April 2010, my husband suffered a massive heart attack that led to a massive stroke. It was obviously a very trying time. I found a journal entry I wrote on July 2, 2010. I need you, Lord. Desperately. I need your love, grace, and help. I am afraid Darryl won’t progress. I am afraid that once he gets “better”, his “better” is not ‘enough’. I am afraid that the healing process is contingent on my little faith.

These words took me back to the emotions I was obviously going through. But amazingly, I didn’t stop there. All the above are settled with your touch. Fear is tormenting. You are love and peace. I know you love me and Darryl. You are walking these things out for many situations. I will surrender once again to be a coin in your pocket, ready to be spent anyway you choose.

Oh my friends, when we are honest about our fears to the Lord, He shows up. As we wait on Him, He begins to show us how to deal with our fears. I remember peace coming as I wrote what I knew about His character. Simply listing our fears without including Him in the scenario can magnify them. But, reminding ourselves of who He is can being to free us from those fears.

This heart honest with the Lord, was definitely not a one and done! August 7, 2010 found me sharing these words: I am troubled, I need you to help me. I am afraid of the future. I feel alone. I feel abandoned in the very place I need you–on the inside. You are good. I “see” Your goodness, but I don’t feel your goodness. I see and feel my badness, my need of a Savior even more desperately than I have ever needed you before. I need your help. Your sent Joan, Vanda, Joyce and the girls, but I need you. Abraham waited YEARS for the promise to be fulfilled. I am impatient for it now. Abraham and Sarah had to deal with their own deadness. I feel dead as well. I feel more dead than ever before, but…. (Those listed were such a God sent gift to help Darryl and I. There were many more!)

I actually ended there…no great declaration of faith, just simple heart honesty of how I was feeling. It is almost fifteen years since Darryl’s heart attack. And I am still walking with the Lord. I don’t always understand the circumstances of my life, but I know He does. Life is still challenging, but the lessons I learned during this season have stood me well.

If you are struggling with fears, anxiety or frustrations, I encourage you to take the time to process it with the Lord. There is something helpful about writing them down. In March of that same year I wrote: an encounter with God comes from a heart cry. A heart cry comes because we are desperate. Desperation comes because of a painful awareness that our soul is in trouble. Was God preparing me for this future overwhelming, life-changing event? Probably. He is that good. The amazing thing is God already knew where my heart was struggling. Peace came when I was honest with Him. If you need some scriptural foundation for being honest with God, take a look at King David. Psalm 6:2 have compassion on me, Lord, for I am weak. Heal me, Lord for my bones are in agony,. I am sick at heart, how long O Lord until you restore me? Psalm 13: 1-3: O Lord, how long will you forget me? Forever? How long will you look the other way? How long must I struggle with anguish in my soul, with sorrow in my heart every day? How long will my enemy have the upper hand? Turn and answer me, O Lord my God! Restore the sparkle in my eyes, or I will die. But he goes on to verse 5-6: But I trust your unfailing love, I will rejoice because you have rescued me. I will sing to the Lord because He is good to me. NLT.

Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko on Pexels.com

Oh my friends, God wants to return the sparkle to your eyes. Take the time to share your honest heart. But don’t stop there, begin to remind yourself of what He has already done for you. Do not let the fears and regrets of your past hold you back. Do not let the concerns and fears of the future stop you from moving ahead in His ways. It is not worth it!

Father, I am so grateful we can be honest with You. I thank you for listening with attention and concern. I thank you for teaching us how to keep our hearts free from the clutter of fears and hidden anxiety. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

Uncategorized

Faith and Praying for Others

February 27, 2025 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

We also pray that you will be strengthened with all his glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy, Colossians 1: 11 NLT.

Are you ever overwhelmed by all the needs in your life and the lives of others you really care about? I am so thankful for the Holy Spirit and His ability to show us how to pray. It is one area I want to grow in this year, praying more effectively.

So here are some steps I am trying to incorporate. Maybe they will help someone else..or you can pray for me!

Instead of going straight to bed and sleep, I’ve incorporated listening to worship. I intentionally try to listen to the words and worship along with the music. Afterwards, I pray for my more challenging situations (at least in my mind!). It is much easier to release my faith after worship than without it. These are probably situations I’ve already prayed for during the day.

Another tool I’ve added is praying Paul’s prayers. Growing up as a Baptist girl, we did not have set prayers like some of our Catholic or Episcopalian brethren have. We did pray the “Lord’s Prayer”, but not too often corporately. We were encouraged to just pray from the heart. It took me a while to incorporate these amazing prayers for myself and for others. Like the above scripture, praying for others to be strengthened with all his glorious power so [they] will have all the endurance and patience [they] need. May [they]be filled with joy. This is a prayer that can be prayed for almost everyone! The Greek word translated ‘endurance’ here is hupomone. It is a word that combines “hupo” meaning under and “mone” meaning to remain. So when praying this prayer, we are asking the Lord to help our friends to bear up under difficult circumstances without weariness or defeat. It specifically refers to situations, not people. So many are dealing with difficult circumstances around me. I am so grateful I can pray this prayer for them.

Along with praying for the needs of others, I haven’t forgotten the scriptural instruction to pray for our leaders. When I hear people complaining about either our political leaders or spiritual leaders, I want to ask, “have you been praying for them?” This is a reminder to pray for our leaders, my friends. Criticisms or behind their back complaining are only going to hurt your soul, not bring any positive change. I urge, then, first of all that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people–for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. I Timothy 2:1-2.

When was the last time you prayed for your enemies? Maybe your enemies comprise of those who do not think like you do. You see them as a threat. Matthew 5:44, But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. Isn’t that an amazing scripture? It tells us to love our enemies first! Then pray for those who persecute us Difficult to do. I believe if we put this into practice, our enemies may become our friends. Really interceding for others, enemies or not, changes our hearts towards them. Love and hope springs up where fear and animosity once grew. I challenge you to pray for the person who irritates you the most. Ask the Lord to bless them, you will be changed.

None of these steps or tools are new or unique to me. Believers have been using them for generations. Praying in faith, trusting God’s Word, which tells us the prayers of the righteous avails much, is such a privilege. Ask Him to persecuted church? Christians that are in prison because of their faith? I have an internet friend who lives and ministers in India. She asked me to pray the other day because some of the local pastors were arrested for their faith. Then I discovered an American pastor friend (along with their team) was in a different part of India and was placed under house arrest for their faith as well. Gratefully, in both situations, these brave leaders were released. However, the local Indian pastors live under the constant threat of arrest, beatings or even having their homes torched.

My friends, it is time to grow in intercession. It is how we can partner with Him to increase the Kingdom.

Father, we are like the first disciples, needing you to teach us how to pray. Forgive us for our small vision and small faith prayers. I ask you to help us grow in this area for Your Kingdom’s sake. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

Uncategorized

Faith and Sickness

February 20, 2025 Martha Rodman1 Comment

The Lord will strengthen him on the bed of illness: You will sustain him on his sickbed. Isaiah 41:3. NKJV

No blog was written last week, because I came down with the flu. It wasn’t fun (and in fact, I am still recovering from it). Maybe it was my feverish brain, but I began to ponder, what is the “right” way to deal with sickness. Or is there a “right” way?

The first couple of days were quite rough. I managed to send a message to my Life Group team, letting them know we would not be meeting. It brought offers of help and prayer! I admit at this time, I was too ill to really deal with “ministry guilt”, that came later. My dear sister came to my rescue. She went to the store and brought meds and various quick nibbles. She filled all my straw cups (I had three by my bed) which made it easier to keep hydrated. Because this wonderful “Bug” came with throwing up the first day or so, I really couldn’t keep things down. It made me reluctant to try and eat anything.

By day 3 and 4, I started trying to expect to be over it. I tried to catch up on my devotional reading plan. I was grateful for the ability to listen to the Bible. My eyes were hurting too much to focus and read. Some of the ladies in our Life Group are dealing with difficult things. I wanted to pray magnificent prayers. I ended up trusting the Lord to intervene. I feebly mentioned their name before Him. “Father, I trust you with my friends”.

Somewhere in this journey, I remembered I was supposed to host and lead another meeting for our Senior Life Ministry Planning team. I was able to find my laptop and send out a cancellation notice. This consumed more energy than I expected, so back to bed. The ministry guilt started to raise its head. Push through, you could have worn a mask…what’s wrong with you? Living through some out balanced teaching of healing can really affect your soul at this stage. I had to remind myself, that Jesus is the Savior and Healer, not me. My energy level, brain focus ability and body simply would not let me do more than rest in His love. Trusting His grace.

The good news of God’s faithfulness was apparent, when I received a phone call from a hurting friend. God’s Spirit showed up and I was able to speak life, focus and help into the situation. I felt so wimpy at first. But as we talked, my care for the person helped me tap into His Presence with God’s Truth. I did take another nap after the phone call

Living alone and being sick is not for the faint of heart. My son, who I probably got this from, was a few days a head of me, so I monitored his progress via his wife. He has recovered. I’m on my way, just dealing mostly with fatigue and sinus congestion. I appreciate the texts and encouragement that people were praying for me. Somehow there is a balance between being remembered and overwhelming with questions about how you are feeling!

So once again, I’ve learned to rest, trust and enjoy Him, even when I don’t feel well. As a younger believer, I used to feel guilty and shame over sickness. I thought it was a sign of weakness, now I’ve learned better. If nothing else, it reminds me that I am made of flesh. It helps me understand the afflictions of other, and I’ve learned to give myself much more grace. My friends, let us be gracious to ourselves and each other. I’m asking the Lord about changes that should be made, but in the meantime, I choose to rest in His love, and going to take another nap!

Photo by Polina Tankilevitch on Pexels.com

Father, I thank you for being faithful, even when I am not. You are with us on our sickbed and for that I am grateful. Please keep teaching us how to best display your glory, no matter what state we are in. In Jesus Name. Amen.

Faith Trust · Uncategorized

Faith and Application

February 6, 2025 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

Listen to the words of the wise; apply your heart to instruction. For it is good to keep these sayings in your heart and always ready on your lips. I am teaching you today—yes, you so you will trust in the Lord. Proverbs 22:17-19. NLT.

I have been having an ongoing conversation with the Lord. We have discussed why so many in their later season of life experience so many challenges. It seems the advertised “golden” years are not as golden as the commercials would like to portray! People hear about the joys of retirement with traveling, golfing, or cruising. However, many seniors face unexpected physical diagnoses. These diagnoses can limit their mobility and interactions. Last year I got to experience physical therapy for the first time because of a knee condition. Now both knees are complaining and I need to courage up to tackle a flight of stairs! These are fairly common complaints for those of us in our 70’s.

There is also the hovering concern or specter of dementia! Oh, I forgot a word or date. Could this be an early sign of dementia or Alzheimer’s? So what are we to do? Let fear ruin our lives? That definitely is not the answer! So I prayed and talked with the Lord about navigating these older years. I asked Him why things seem to be so hard. He shared a simple insight. He said it is time to apply all the lessons about Him we have already learned. Every lesson about His trustworthiness and His faithfulness, we are to put into practice. It is a time to lean ever more upon Him and what His Word has to say in every situation.

Often we can move through life with our heads full of knowledge about God and His ways. It is when we face challenges to actually apply what we know , is when we find out how much faith we truly have. Jesus told us that in this world we would suffer tribulations. James is very clear on this as well. Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know when your faith is tested, endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. James 1: 2-4. My senior friends, if your faith is being tested, it is a good thing. It is not easy, but He will work it out for your good. It will also benefit others. This is not just for senior friends, but for all of God’s children.

He also reminded me. These years are our last opportunity to show what it means to be a believer in Him. Whether or not we like it, people are watching you. Your family, friends and acquaintances really need us to model what it means to be a believer during trying times. When my sister was first diagnosed with lymphoma, God led me to Philippians 4:6-7. Very simple and familiar scriptures, but they became very real to me. Don’t worry about anything, instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. I keep applying these lessons through her breast cancer journey and now her heart and kidney concerns. The don’t worry part is challenging, but I am getting better at it!

My friends, it is not God’s plan that we simply spout platitudes about His goodness, but we must believe it. When faced with the trials of our faith, we must know that 2 Peter 1:3 is true. By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. There is no disqualifying circumstance to this verse. He has given us everything we need for living a godly life, the choice is “do we believe it?”. Oh my friends, the lessons you are learning today will benefit you greatly. They will help you, no matter what you face tomorrow. Many times it is the small things that help us endure. I remember singing (very croakedly) “this is the day the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it), during the first few weeks after my husband’s stroke. It came from deep within my spirit from the earlier lessons He taught me. This simple scripture helped me get through those tough days.

So no matter what season of life, learn to apply what you know. If you need more help in a matter, ask Him for it–or a good friend. Remember, He is our teacher. What a blessing it brings to Him, when we apply what we know!

Father, I thank you for teaching us how to apply Your Word to every circumstance we find ourselves in. I thank you we don’t have to worry about our future, because you are already in it. Prepare us for our future, but helping us learn to walk with you today. Help us truly “apply our heart to your instruction”. In Jesus’s Name, amen.

Uncategorized

Faith and Hope Less

January 30, 2025 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15: 13 NLT.

I had the chance to talk with another widow this week. Her husband and mother passed very close together about four years ago. She is a firm believer. She wasn’t questioning God’s goodness. Instead, she was seeking to learn how to walk through these sometimes paralyzing struggles that grief can often bring. Somehow during the conversation, someone used the word “hopeless.” As we talked, I thought about “hope less.” versus hopeless. Had my hope level dropped amid so many challenges?

Think about a thermometer. When we take temperatures for fevers, we want the numbers to go down. Can you see it now? A hope thermometer? Is your hope increasing or decreasing? I had to admit that in some areas my hope is less than it used to be. It was a reality check, but in a good way. Life hasn’t been easy for many lately. Those close to me have been dealing with very hard things. I talked with a lady yesterday at church. She had been a wonderful life group leader. She shared she had to step down, because her husband was diagnosed with early stages of Alzheimer’s. Her mom had passed away from the same disease, so she knows sort of what lies ahead.

She told me, I still believe in our God who heals, and am trusting Him for our future. When life sends us these curves, it is hard. Many older saints are facing even more difficult trials than ever before. I asked the Lord about it, and He said, “it’s time to apply everything we’ve learned in the past”. It is not a time to give up and lose hope or heart. It is a time to lean even harder on Him and His character. This last season of our life gives us the opportunity to really live as an example of the believer. Not easy, but it must be doable!

I realized I had actually lost some hope (hope less). I began to pray and ask Him to help me. Proverbs 13:12, is very clear: hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a dream fulfilled is a tree of life. NLT. When things are “deferred” put off, delayed or even suspended we can become discouraged. Little children can fuss and fume over short delays, but as we mature we can endure it a bit better. There comes a time when we have to admit, “Lord, I think my heart is sick”. You may be trusting Him for healing, finances, a relationship fix etc. But it hasn’t happened yet. So what do we do? Grow sicker and sicker? No, my friend. We need to go back to the Lord. I wanted my husband to miraculously recover from his heart attack and stroke. When we began to see improvement, we were all so excited. But, after caring, trusting, praying and loving him, two and half years later he joined Jesus.

So now what? I admitted my heart was sick. I had many conversations with Him, sharing my feelings and disappointments. Some I wrote, some were simply heart felt prayers. I had learned enough about Him I did not stop until peace came. The scripture in Romans 15:13 tells us He is the God of ALL hope. So it makes sense to go back to the source and ask Him to restore your hope. Paul was praying for the Roman church, that the God, the source of hope, would fill them completely with joy and peace. He wanted them to experience the fullness of the Good News. This is God’s wish for us, that we will be filled completely with joy and peace. I admit, I am still working on that!

Hope can be a bit elusive at times, which is why we find this exhortation in Hebrews 10:23. Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. Isn’t this the crux of the matter? Do we believe He is trustworthy? When hope wanes, we often take our eyes off Him and onto the immensity of the situation. Our enemy wants us to blame God, get us to believe “if He really cared…” (you fill in the blank!) Paul told Timothy, This is why we work hard and continue to struggle, for our hope is in the living God, who is the Savior of all people and particularly of believers. 1 Timothy 4:10. I want to remind you and me today that He has already proven His loving care. Do whatever you have to do to focus on the Living Loving God, then your hope will rise.

Psalm 119:74 states: May all who fear you find in me a cause for joy, for I have put my hope in your word. If you lose hope, many around you will too. But if you stand strong in God’s Word, you will also strengthen those around you. Lately, when I turn on either my Alexa or Spotify worship, there are so many songs about warfare and struggles. It made me wonder if God is causing His artists to write and produce such songs. We must need them. I found my faith rising as I listened to these encouraging sounds. If you are not a musician like me, we can forget about adding it to our warfare weaponry. But when I do, it is so refreshing.

I want to remind us again that in this world we are going to have trials and tribulations. We can either become hope less, or grow in our hope.

Not just regular hope, but confident hope. Hope that makes us not ashamed or afraid. Do I feel disappointed in myself that my hope thermometer went down? Of course, I felt disappointed. However, I am so grateful for the Holy Spirit. He helped me get back on the right path. Remember Romans 5:4-6. 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. When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and dies for us sinners.

Father, I thank you for showing us that even though we may lose some hope, we don’t have to become hopeless. You teach us to not lose hope. We can hold on and not become hopeless. Help us to grow in Your hope, a hope that encourages us to trust You no matter our journey. You are the source of all Hope and we can depend on you. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

Uncategorized

Faith and Excuses

January 23, 2025 Martha Rodman1 Comment

A man prepared a great feast and sent out invitations. When the banquet was ready, he sent his servant to tell the guests. Come, the banquet is ready. But they all began making excuses. Luke 14: 16-18. NLT.

I mentioned before that I host a Life Group (small group) in my home. It is a privilege and blessing to grow together with these dear sisters. Some of them have some mobility issues. There is a two step concrete porch that leads to my front door. I felt a bit hopeless and frustrated as I watched these ladies navigate the steps with walkers and canes. I often heard, “I wish there were hand rails”. I didn’t know what to do.

When my home was built in 1969, there were no handrails installed. I just thought, I am sorry. I can’t install handrails into concrete. This was my legitimate excuse. After a few months, I thought, maybe they do make a product. how do I really know they don’t. So, I googled it! I was surprised to discover they make such a product. To top it off, I can get them from Amazon Prime. So there went excuse #1. But how expense would this be? Quickly excuse #2 went, because they were in my budget! But then excuse number #3 began swirling around in my mind. Suppose they look bad and it detracts from my homes value? I am not a “visualizer”…so in my mind I could not imagine what the final product would look like. So I procrastinated.

Excuse #4. I asked my friend and contractor, Kenny, if he knew how to install them. He said yes, and he would do it. But excuse #3 was still standing strong, would it be worth it?? One Sunday, our pastor preached a sermon about “love going beyond”. I realized that moment if I loved these women, as I claim, I must buy them and have them installed. Love took away every excuse about this project. I would feel terrible if one of them fell. Or worse, if they chose to quit coming because they didn’t feel safe. Especially since I knew there was a solution.

In the parable of the great feast, Jesus tells, none of the excuses were legitimate. One bought a field, and wanted to inspect it. I am sure that field wasn’t going any where. Another, bought some oxen and wanted to “try” them out, again it could have happened at another time. Even the one who got married, could have chosen to come. When God asks us to do something, do we remember He understands all about our life? Or do we make our flimsy self-centered excuses? The excuses usually involve our time, effort or money. Each one of the “excusers” were focused on themselves, they did not consider the expense or effort the one who did the invite had gone to. I think we are often guilty of the same thing.

Luke 14 sets the stage for this parable. Jesus is at the home of a Pharisee, and some other religious law experts. They were watching him, but he also was watching them! After asking them if it was permitted to heal on the Sabbath, he healed a man. He then watched them vie for more prominent places at the table–which led to an exhortation about humility.

We then find Jesus encouraging the host. He tells the host not to invite those who could invite him back. Instead, he should go out and invite the lame, the poor, the blind, and the crippled. Embedded in verse 14, he gives us a clue to the why and what our perspective should be. And then you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you. For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the just. Luke 14:14 ESV. In other words, it is another way we can sow our treasures in heaven. We make the wrong choice when we focus only on this life. We make decisions based on time, effort, or finances for the present rather than for heaven’s sake.

Oh my friends, watching the ladies enter and leave my home last night was a blessing. They thanked me for the installation. I am trusting God about any changes to my home value–I’m not planning on moving anytime soon anyway!

Remember, when God asks something of you, He remembers your frame. He knows everything about you–even in the asking. So if you don’t see a way, ask Him to make a way. If you are afraid of the outcome, tell Him that. Ask Him how to move forward, because His ways are always best. Let’s get rid of our lame excuses and just get on with it!

Father, help us do your will. Freely, joyfully and faithfully. Thank you for helping us deal with our excuses, no matter how big or how small. In Jesus’ Name, amen.