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 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.

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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.

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Faith and “Senior” Life

March 22, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

Even in old age, they will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green. They will declare, “The Lord is just! There is no evil in him!’ Psalm 92:14. NLT.

What an amazing promise! Our church has been blessed to be growing. There are many unfamiliar faces between our two services. One day, as I was praying and worshipping during the service, I noticed some of our long- time members. I thought, these are the faithful who were there when the building was built. I know some of their amazing God stories, but these new people probably don’t. I knew it was their time, treasure, and talent that physically and spiritually helped lay the foundation of this church almost fifty years ago. It was a humbling thought.

I did not want them to go to their grave, not knowing they were not only seen, but appreciated. Even more, I want them to know they are still useful to His church. Their abilities may have changed, but they have much more to give. I spent more time in prayer and contemplation, then broached the subject with our pastor. He sent me to do some investigation on the needs or desire of such a ministry. There was an overwhelming sense of “yes.” So Senior Life Ministries is beginning.

Many seniors feel invisible. I, myself, have experienced the feeling of invisibility. For example, my daughter-in-law accompanied me to a doctor’s appointment. I was a new patient. As I was filling out the forms, the receptionist kept looking at her for my answers! It was noticeable to both of us. Her attitude made me nervous and question my own competence! The great news is no matter what our age, we are not invisible to our God, nor should we be to His family.

I admit, I can’t do some things I used to do. 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 reminds us: therefore, we do not lose heart, though our outer self is wasting away, yet our inner self is being renewed day by day. Compared to some seniors, not even close to my age, my outer self has not wasted away as much as it could have! But, no matter how much we easily tire, or struggle to have the strength to open jars we must not lose heart. We must not let our bodies’ failures cause our soul to become discouraged. My dear ones, old and young, God has a desire and need to use you for His Kingdom’s sake, no matter your age.

Wisdom is found with the elderly and understanding comes with long life. Job 12:12. Sometimes, we assume people know what we know, or people don’t want to know what we know. One of the goals for our Senior Life ministry is to work cross generationally with our Next Youth program. Plans are already in the works to pray with them. To successfully cross pollinate, us seniors need to walk with God’s grace and humility. We can’t develop impactful relationships with a haughty, judgmental attitude. We need to make sure we’ve dealt with any bitterness, unforgiveness that would taint our influence. We need to put away the “grumpy” old man and lady persona and show them how to age with grace. We have things to share, but we must be careful they are God’s thoughts, not our thoughts. We don’t want to cause discouragement, disillusionment but hope and truth. The Jesus we want to share with them is the real Jesus, the loving powerful Savior that walks with us and talks with us. Discipling, teaching, mentoring are so needed for this next generation. Now that I am old and gray, do not abandon me, O God. Let me proclaim your p0wer to this new generation, your mighty miracles to all who come after me. Many Bible scholars believe David wrote this Psalm during a time when he was under the crisis of Absalom’s rebellion. You can hear his desire, “let me proclaim your power to this new generation”. Is that your desire? Begin to ask the Lord for these doors. It may start with a friendly “hello” at church. Or asking a young person about their life. My senior friends, God has a job for you to do. Just ask Him. Don’t give in to the devil’s lie, that you have nothing to offer; or nobody wants to hear from you. Ask the Holy Spirit to open your eyes, work in your heart and put you to work! Remember, the harvest is ripe but the laborers are few.

If you are still breathing, God can use you. As a Senior, you already know life isn’t easy or necessarily fair. My prayer, when my husband had his stroke, was “Father, you better get everything you can out of this, because it is hard”. I’ve watched Him use my story to help others. Those hard things you’ve gone through can help someone else.

Father, I thank you for helping every Senior reading this article to open their eyes, their hearts and their hands for your use. I ask you to open the eyes, hearts and hands to younger folks to receive those gifts. Make room for them in your body, dear Lord. Stir up our hearts to be about our Father’s Kingdom no matter what our age. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

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Faith and a Circumcised Heart

March 14, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

Circumcise, therefore, the foreskin of your heart, and be no longer stubborn. Deuteronomy 10:16 ESV

These past few weeks have been very busy. I have been spending time with the Lord and His Word, but I felt a separation from Him. As I prayed this morning, I asked Him for grace to receive from Him whatever I needed to connect. My daily reading schedule brought me to this verse, but I read it in the New Living Translation. Therefore, change your hearts and stop being stubborn. I thought, wow, that’s pretty clear. As read through the footnotes, it talked about uncircumcised hearts. In nature, foreskins, which have been removed, do not grow back. Unfortunately, our spiritual hearts can grow calloused, hard and unfeeling, which can lead us to unreceptiveness to the Holy Spirit. This effectively, separates us from our God.

Walking with the Lord in this life exposes us to not only our own thoughts and experiences but also those of our friends, family, co-workers and even our governmental leaders. Our heart is then subject to the abuse and challenges of life. The question is, what are we going to do with the disappointments, discouragements, and unmet expectations that we encounter? Whether or not we acknowledge it, it affects our heart (soul).

In this section of Deuteronomy, Moses was trying to prepare the Israelites to enter the Promised Land. He wasn’t just interested in their bodies entering, but their entering in with an understanding of whose they were and the whys. He spent some good amount of time reminding them of their shortcomings, and God’s grace. He rehearsed the mess up with the Golden Calf and how he had to go back up to the mountain with God a second time. He shared with them how he interceded for Aaron and the lives of the Israelites. I believe his heart was to help them understand the importance of making a decision to serve the Lord and Him alone, no matter what lay ahead.

I think he was speaking corporately, but in order for a nation to serve the Lord, every individual needs to make that decision. It is the same with the Body of Christ, we each need to decide to make Him Lord. And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you? He requires only that you fear the Lord your God, and live in a way that pleases him, and love him and serve him with all your heart and soul. Deuteronomy 10:12. So how can we love Him, with all our heart and soul, if our hearts are hardened? If we have grown calloused? We find part of the solution in verse 16. Therefore, change your hearts and stop being stubborn. Circumcision of the heart implies submission and humility. It is acknowledging, God is God and we are not. It is choosing to walk in His ways not our ways.

When things don’t go our way, our fleshly tendencies rise up, and we want to take control. Maybe we look around for other “gods” to follow? My friends, the best thing we can do when we find ourselves in these scenarios, is yield to Him and His ways. Take the time to pour your heart out to Him and listen. Heartache is inevitable, but He binds up the broken-hearted. When we allow Him to comfort us in our sorrow, our hearts stay softened.

If you find yourself with a hardening heart, go to Him, not away from Him. Lean in to Him and His ways. Stay in His Word and take time to worship Him. These are all softening agents. Maybe confess your story to a trustworthy friend and ask them to pray with you. Expect God to respond. Release your faith. He is ready, willing, and able to help us through any difficult struggles. What joyous fellowship when we return–even if we have only strayed a little way. Take the time to allow Him to search your heart for all the “no’s” you might have said to Him. That is the beginning of a hardened heart.

Father, I thank you for helping us to walk with humble, soften hearts toward you. I ask you search our hearts for areas where we may have allowed anger, disappointment or discouragement to seep in, hardening our hearts. Remind us of your loving care. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

Faith Trust · Uncategorized

Faith and “Reminders”

March 7, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

“Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit’, says the Lord Almighty. Zechariah 4:6. NKJV

Let’s get a little background on this scripture. Zechariah, was a postexilic prophet–called to encourage the returning Israelites to complete the Temple. The people were discouraged. They had begun a good work, but due to lack of funds and leadership they had drifted to dealing with their own lives. The Temple rebuild had come to a stand still. These people had returned with enthusiasm from Babylon, but opposition from the Samaritans and other distractions took its toll. Have you ever felt discouragement try to whittle away at your God given assignment? Are you fighting doubt or your own discouragement? You might need this reminder: It is not by force nor by strength, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. Zechariah 4:6. NLT.

Zechariah (whose name means Yaweh Remembers) was sent to encourage Zerubbabel, the leader that was sent to restore the Temple. This was the fifth vision, Zechariah had. It was a vision of a golden lampstand and two olive trees. The golden lampstand had a bowl of oil on the top surrounded by seven lamps, each having seven spouts and wicks. I appreciate Zechariah’s forthrightness. “What are these, my Lord? What do they mean?” Don’t you know the angel asked. No, my lord, I don’t. The he said to me, This is what the lord says to Zerubbabel: It is not by force nor by strength, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. I keep repeating this scripture, because most things we are facing we can’t fix. But He can. It is a reminder of how much we need the direction, power and strength the Holy Spirit can give us.

I am sure Zerubbabel struggled with the weight of the task he was sent to do. The exciting expectation that the returning Jews had, waned. They began with great strength, but now they had stopped working on the Temple. The angel continued talking to Zechariah. Nothing, not even a mighty mountain will stand in Zerubbabel’s way; it will become a level plain before him! And when Zerrubbabel sets the final stone of the temple in place, the people will shout: “May God bless it! May God bless it”. Then another message came to me from the Lord: Zerubbabel is the one who laid the foundation of this Temple, and he will complete it. Then you will know that the Lord of Heaven’s Armies has sent me. Zechariah 4:7-9. What an encouraging word to Zerubbabel! He would complete the re-building. I want to encourage you today. He that has begun a good work in you, (and subsequently) through you, will complete it. It may not look like you expect at this time, but it will be what He plans.

The angel was not finished. He went on to say: Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin, to see the plumb line in Zerubbabel’s hand. God rejoices when we begin, no matter how small. He rejoices when we do not grow weary in well doing. He rejoices in the small attempts we make. Zerubbabel still had to rally the workers to finish the Temple, but having the word of the Lord to boost his confidence was priceless. My friends, do not forget His Presence, just like the lampstand is there to give light. He wants to show us the how, when most times we are so busy asking the why we don’t proceed to the how and when. Zerubbabel already knew the what. The restoration was completed in 515 B.C.E. God’s promise was fulfilled. Keep walking my friends, your promises will be fulfilled as well, if we surrender and partner with the Holy Spirit. He is our power and might.

Father, help us to remember that Your work in us begins with Your Holy Spirit. You want us to rely on Him. He will lead us and guide us in all things. Help us to keep our eyes open to see what you are doing in the midst of discouraging situations. Help us to listen to Your voice and share its encouragement with those around us. We trust you, dear Father. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

Faith Trust · Uncategorized

Faith and His Promises

February 22, 2024 Martha Rodman2 Comments

Remember your promise to me; it is my only hope. Your promise revives me; it comforts me in all my troubles. Psalm 119:49-50. NLT

I am so so grateful for God’s promises. I am grateful that He is a promise keeper. He is faithful to His promise, when I am not. Today I am feeling a bit distracted and stuck. Trying to press through and spend time with Him, but it isn’t working too well. So I put on some worship music and tried to settle in. Still a struggle.

Spent a bit of time kneeling prostrate before Him, humbling myself and realizing our God is hearing me, no matter what I am feeling. He sees my heart and struggle to meet with Him. As I quieted my heart and just rested in the knowledge of His presence, peace came. I began to feel restored and strengthened. I found the above scripture and was comforted by His promises, once again.

Why do we make it so complicated? He longs to have a relationship with us. He paid the costly price of restoring our relationship to Him. What a joy for Him when He sees us wanting to be with Him, surrendered and waiting.

I love that His promises are personal. I can claim them, and so can you. He promised to never leave us nor forsake us (one of my favorite promises!). I read there are over 7,000 promises in the Bible. Take a look at your concordance and read some of them. They are refreshing and comforting. The Lord always keeps his promises; he is gracious in all he does. Psalm 145: 13

We find a marvelous example of what happens when we believe His promises in Romans 4:20. Abraham never wavered in believing God’s promise. Om fact, his faith grew stronger and in this he brought glory to God. He was fully convinced that God is able to do whatever he promises. When we continue to grow in our faith in God’s promises (His word), we bring Him glory. The Holy Spirit wants to help us grow in this area. What promises are you trusting in today? Keep on my friend, keep on believing. Do not let the enemy steal your hope. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled. May God who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other, as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus. Romans 15:4-5. NLT. Abraham and Sarah waited a long time to have their promised child. I can only imagine how difficult it was for them to keep trusting. (We know it wasn’t easy, because we have the story of Hagar and Ishmael).

Take time to renew your hope in His promises by reading His Word. Remind yourself of the stories (testimonies) of those who have gone before us. Remember that He who has begun a good work, will go on to perfect it. Philippians 1:6. If you need to remind yourself that He forgives when we ask–read Matthew 6 and the Lord’s prayer. Oh my friends, do not let a gap develop in your relationship with Him. No matter what season you find yourself in, He is present, able and willing to meet with you and me.

I find so much comfort in His promises, don’t you? Today, as I finally reminded myself of His promises I was able to enter in and find the rest He promises. It took some time, but it was so worth it!

Father, I thank you for your promises. I thank you that they are faithful and dependable, even we feel we aren’t worthy of them. I thank you for helping us trust in them and like Abraham, bring glory to your name. In Jesus’ Name, amen.