Faith and Fair or Unfair

March 20, 2025 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of you faith produces patience. James 1:2-3 NKJV.

During our small group meeting last night, we read the above scripture. Once again, I realized something important. I have not yet learned to “count” it joy when I meet a trial or trouble. As I mentioned it, one of our other members suggested when we post a prayer request or struggle, we would use the code words “count joy”!

I am not sure if James wants us to rejoice instantly or when we have time to evaluate the test. As I looked up the word “count” it means to judge, consider or have the rule over. It is our choice which category to place the various trials we face in. As I thought about these choices, I thought about a spreadsheet. What kinds of things do I put in the joy/faith category? The birth of a new grand baby? Watching my children grow in the Lord? Hearing an answered prayer? It is easy to place these in the “fair” category!

Most of us, if we want to admit it have a “fair” or “unfair” category. It is quite a normal human trait. Consider Cain’s response to God’s question, “Where is Abel?” “Am I my brother’s keeper?” Cain felt God’s acceptance of Abel’s sacrifice, and did not think the rejection of his sacrifice fair. Unfortunately, he thought it was so unfair that he killed his brother. (You can read the story in Genesis 4). So my friends, what types of trials and tests have you experienced that may be in the “unfair” category? Are there unresolved tribulations in your soul, that you still ‘feel unfair’?

Loss of a job? Cheated on by your spouse? Or maybe you cheated because your spouse was ‘unfair’? How about struggling with children’s sicknesses or diagnosis? Financial issues? James tries to help us focus on the joy that can come from these tests. I believe he is doing this because he experienced it firsthand! Apparently, according to John 7:5, his biological 1/2 brothers did not believe in him. But after the resurrection, he believed. We find him in the upper room with his mother and other brothers, according to Acts 1:14. He eventually became the leader of the church in Jerusalem, and you know that must not have been easy!

According to the NKJV we are to count the trials of our faith as joy. The NLT tells us: Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. Once again, it seems like it is our choice how we perceive these trials. The Message Bible is even clearer: Consider it a sheer gift, friends when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. Wow, this takes a mind shift for sure. So where do you put the trials you are currently facing? In the fair or the unfair section? Would it make a difference if you could see how He could be working it all out for good for you?

Most teachers give tests after they have taught the material. They believe their students are ready to do well on it. I believe the Lord, as our Teacher does the same. When your faith is tested, your 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 1:3-4. Maybe the question is, do you trust the Teacher? Or your ability to learn?

Most of us try to avoid all trials and tests. We want comfort and stability. Again, it is very natural when unexpected trials show up to feel like this is UNFAIR! But, I have to admit most of the God inspiring lessons in my life came from difficult trials. These trials were God changing for me. I am not talking about dealing with the effects of sin or giving in to temptation. There are lessons to be learned from that. I am talking about learning to stand in the face of the trials of our faith. Learning to live life as a widow was one of the most challenging tests of my faith. I hated to even use the word “widow”. Some trials and tribulations we can squirm around, but not this one. I had two choices. I could live life in the “unfair” zone. Or I could trust our fair God. I decided to see what He would do with this season of my life. My emotions, at times, really want to live in the “unfair” zone. But I have learned that my Savior is trustworthy. The length of time my tests and trials end up in the “unfair” category depends on the issue. How about you?

We must understand that everything that happens to us may not be good or easy by itself. When we put it in His hands, He works it all out for our good. This is why we can move our tests from ‘unfair’ to ‘fair’, as we watch Him work out those tests and trials for our good. That good will include, the patience and endurance that James tells us about. These attributes will help us grow in Him and His ways.

Father, I thank you for helping us trust you even when the tests and tribulations seem unfair to us. According to our understanding, they may not always make sense. We choose to trust you. We rely on you to help us not get stuck in any emotional feelings of “unfairness”. We trust your ability to work all things together for our good and your kingdom. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Faith and Legacy

January 9, 2025 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints. Psalm 116:15. ESV.

The word the Lord gave me this year for our family Christmas sharing, was legacy. I felt to encourage all of us, but especially my grandchildren, that they are actually developing their legacy right now.

When most people think about leaving a legacy, they think about money and possessions. But as a believer, we have an opportunity to leave an even greater legacy. This legacy can influence many, not just our own families. I discovered in my biological family missionaries went in the 1800’s to what is now Senegal, very close to where Darryl and I ministered in Ghana! Did they pray for future generations to influence the region? We won’t know till we get to heaven.

We found out that some of our relatives founded a college for freed slaves They also established it for their children. It is now Claflin University in Orangeburg, South Carolina! Their heart was for education. I wonder if my heart to teach came from this DNA? Is it a coincidence that our oldest grandson graduates in May, with an education degree?

I just finished watching some of the memorial service for our 39th president, Jimmy Carter. What a legacy he and his wife left, not only for our nation, but also for the Kingdom. I admit

, Darryl and I were so isolated (no TV, no radio) that when he ran for president, we had no clue who he was! We realized weren’t being good citizens at that point. How could we pray for our country if we didn’t even know what was going on? There is a stigma upon “one-term” presidents that they somehow “failed”. He did not let that stop him from living an impact full life. He left office at 56, in 1981 and by 1982 they founded the Carter Center which continues touching lives all over the world. He came from a small town in Georgia and continued to champion small towns and villages around the world. Each speaker mentioned his faith. He was a man of character. He not only verbally shared his faith with others, but he lived it. I found myself praying for those in attendance, that they would embrace this man’s faith and change their world.

So my friends, if you are reading this, you are still breathing. If you are still breathing, then you are still forming your legacy. One of my last conversations with my father involved money. He said, “Martha, you and Darryl will never have any money”. I said, “when did you teach us?” We are open to anything you want to share. He said, “well, stay in the lane God has given you. I only lost money when I tried to step out in areas God did not anoint me to do (like oil or gold mines)”. So we took that to heart and stayed in God’s calling, ministry.

I have tried to be wise with my finances, so my children will not have to care for me. But I admit I am more concerned for my spiritual legacy. I want to exemplify what it means to love the Lord. Serving Him is the best life you can lead. It is my heart that they discover their own relationship with Him. Jesus instructs us in Matthew not to store our treasures on earth. Instead, we should lay them in heaven where moths and rust cannot destroy. There is a balance we need in stewarding our finances here on earth, while focusing on heaven as well. God give us Your wisdom, please!

Oh my friends, another area of legacy is our character. Are we gracious? Hospitable? Or are we difficult to please and get along with? Do we seek to let the fruit of the spirit be tasted by everyone, or only those we deem worthy? Are we short-tempered and focused on ourselves? If you are in a later season of life, it may be difficult to change your financial legacy. But, we can always change our spiritual and character legacy. It is in our control.

Paul exhorted all believers in so many of his letters about behavior issues. Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor that which is evil. Cling to that which is good. Romans 12:9 Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, even as Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:31-32. Therefore as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering, bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another, even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. Colossians 3:12-14. Many people read over these verses (at times, me included) without applying them to their own lives. Even after such an encouraging and uplifting memorial, the commentators quickly judged and criticized. They focused on the difficult relationships the current living presidents have with each other. I don’t know if they realized they were sowing seeds of division. This happened right after listening to stories about how the man they were honoring sought to bring people together!

Thinking about my own life and those who have impacted me the most, are those who have applied Paul’s exhortations. They took the time to be gracious and kind. They encouraged me to seek our Savior even more. My parents taught me the logistics of hospitality, but I learned the heart of hospitality from a home church I attended as a student at the University of Washington. I am still learning how to do this. It’s not easy to change, but with His help we can.

Cartoons make fun of the grumpy old men and the “Karen’s” of this world. Unfortunately, they are based on reality but this should not be the case with us believers. Christians get mocked in the media because of hypocrisy. Let’s not give them fuel for the fire. President Carter, according to his grandchildren, lived a genuine Christian life, and with the help of the Holy Spirit, so can we. Thank you, Jimmy Carter for your legacy that we can learn from.

Father, help us leave Your kind of legacy, but we need your help to do it. Show us our short comings, and help us make any change necessary. Forgive us for messing up. We are so grateful your mercy covers a multitude of sin for us, let us make sure we share that mercy with those we meet. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

“Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter” by Carol M Highsmith/ CC0 1.0

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Faith and Rejoicing

December 19, 2024 Martha Rodman2 Comments

4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Philippians 4:4 ESV.

I read this verse in the NLT this week. It says: Always be full of joy in the Lord, I say it again–rejoice. What a challenge! Paul writes about many things through his letters, but to tell us to always be full of joy, or rejoicing? Many of my friends and family members face challenging situations. These situations are not ones that would naturally lead them to be full of joy. Or are they?

I will admit that many in my life are surrounded by life’s difficulties: financial, health and relational. But, so was the church at Philippi! Paul founded this church during his second missionary journey and developed a close relationship with them. The book (letter) is so encouraging, even though Paul is likely writing this letter from prison. As I ponder what makes him capable of encouraging them to rejoice always? I realize, once again, it is his own relationship with Jesus.

My friends, when we forget to focus on Him, it is easy to fall into discouragement and depression. Last night I heard some test results that are not trending in the way we want. My heart said, “no, Lord”. I began to focus on her numbers and grew sadder. But then the Holy Spirit stopped me, and I had to say, Lord, I choose to trust You. I choose to know you are bigger than these test results. In the midst of this battle, I reminded myself that the government is upon His shoulders, not mine. He rules and reigns over all things. We do not have to walk this alone, but with Him and His plan.

Peace was restored. I can’t rejoice at this point in the test results. However, I can rejoice in the fact that God is in charge. All night I thought about this encouragement by Paul. Always be full of joy. “Father, I am not full of joy, I only am about 25% joyful right now. Please help me.” I deliberately reminded myself of who our Savior is and what He has done for me and others. Joy started to grow. My friends, this continues to be a learning process in my life, rejoicing always isn’t for our natural man!

Today I read through the book of 1 Peter. These gentile believers were living in Asia Minor and were suffering persecution because of their beliefs.3 All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is by his great mercy that we have been born again, because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Now we live with great expectation, 4 and we have a priceless inheritance—an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. 5 And through your faith, God is protecting you by his power until you receive this salvation, which is ready to be revealed on the last day for all to see. 1 Peter 1:3-5. NLT. I don’t know about you, but sometimes I forget to live with “great expectation”. The things of this world become so real, I forget they are temporary. What joy to know that God is protecting us by His power. Our enemy would like us to quit trusting Him. To think our faith is in vain, but in actuality, we have a living faith. A living faith that He wants to grow and develop so we can be overcomers, no matter what we face. James reminds us to count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. James 1: 2-3.

There is that word again, joy. It isn’t easy to “count it all joy”. Maybe our first response is to whine or feel fear. Once we finish with that, we need to “count it all joy”. To learn to rejoice in all things, we need to find Him in our circumstances. We have to search for Him in each situation. Where is He? What is He trying to do in and through it? We can’t do that until and unless we apply His Word to our circumstance. I searched my concordance for all the verses containing the word “rejoice”. There are a lot! Just reading them, cause my joy level to increase.

Remember, this is Paul, writing through the Holy Spirit, that wrote this encouragement to always be full of joy. He endured so much more than most of us can even imagine. I believe he must have found a secret in getting through them, and that secret was rejoicing. I would like to encourage you to start to look at your situation. Then start to thank God (the beginning of rejoicing) for the most difficult thing in your life. Bring Him into it. Thank Him for what He has planned. Follow the Spirit and you will find heaviness and sadness fleeing away. Joy will come. Do it out loud. Something about declaring and thanking Him (the person we trust!) out loud begins to break through our old thought patterns. I did this for the situation I talked about above. I realized that person belongs to Christ, and she is in His hands. He only wants what is best for her. I am not stopping praying for healing for her, because that is the children’s bread. However, I am choosing not to be influenced by the test numbers either.

Often we think the word “rejoice” is a spontaneous reaction to circumstances. Where we laugh out loud or possibly jump up and down in glee. However, to a believer, it is a response to knowing that God is working His salvation in it. He is also working His salvation through it. There is an anticipation of what He is going to do in and through it. Expectation of His moving becomes our focus and trust.

Friends, rejoicing is something that often must be a choice. But, as we choose to rejoice, faith will arise and we will see His handiwork in our situation. Try it! It works.

Father, please teach us how to rejoice. There are so many reasons to doubt, dread, and fear in our lives. But the good news You have brought to us, gives us even more reason to rejoice! In Jesus’ Name, amen.

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Faith and Accomplishments

December 5, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

11 So we keep on praying for you, asking our God to enable you to live a life worthy of his call. May he give you the power to accomplish all the good things your faith prompts you to do. 2 Thessalonians 1:11. NLT.

I came across this verse when I was feeling wimpy and weak. Our Senior Life ministry had just finished a very successful breakfast for 83 seniors. My vision for meeting more needs keeps on enlarging, but I wasn’t feeling very strong in my body. My thoughts were a jumble between what we can do, and, oh Lord, how can we do it? Between faith and unbelief! Have you ever been there? Maybe it’s not with a ministry, but with your marriage? Your parenting skills? Your job or schooling?

Paul’s prayer for them was that He would enable them to accomplish all the good things their faith prompted them to do! It is the same for me and for you. I settled it in my heart, we will accomplish all the good things God has prompted us to do by His power and purpose. I felt my insecurity fading away as faith arose. Of course we can do it, by His strength and by His timing.

I know some folks are facing impossible challenges right now. Dealing with difficult marriage partners or struggling children can be overwhelming. I urge you to take the time right now to pray this prayer for yourself and your situation? Remember, He is able to do above and beyond all we can ask or think (Ephesians 3:20). Today is the day to strengthen your faith in Him. Do not let the fear of your own inadequacy cause you to waver or back off from His plans for your life. The Holy Spirit understands you, your personality, your gifting and calling. Sometimes, we quit too soon. We give up because we are focused on ourselves, not Him and His power and ability. Yes, it may take time to discover the way through. You may need to apply endurance, perseverance and tenacity. But the reward will be worth it all. If you find yourself at a decision point and struggle to decide what to do, remember this. “Charity never fails.” Do the most loving thing you can!

The church at Thessalonica endured hardships and persecutions. Life was difficult for them. Choosing to walk in faith during hard times is the best thing to do, instead of quitting. When I think I have done all I can do, I remember the verse that says: 13 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. 14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. Ephesians 6:13-14. NLT. My friends, you can do it. Everything He has called you to do. You can do it. His Kingdom needs you to do it. What an impact on the surrounding unbelievers, if every believer walked in their gifts and callings. The believers in Thessalonica affected their world. Their faith flourished and they grew in love with each other. Come on, release your faith! We can do it!

Several years ago, our pastors lived in a small town on a small island. They reached out and gave three Christmas food bags to people in need. Last year our church gave out 800 Christmas food bags, and this year our goal is 1,000. Quite a leap. Sometimes our small endeavors are the beginning of bigger endeavors. Do not let the size of the opportunity stop you from fulfilling those good thoughts He has given you.

Father, I thank you for helping us accomplish those good thoughts and ideas that you have given us. I thank you we do not have to do them on our own, no matter how hard the situation we find ourselves in. You are more than able to give us wisdom, solutions and miracles, In Jesus’ Name, amen.

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Faith and Dealing With Oppression

November 7, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in 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 6:10-11. NLT

Oppression is one of Satan’s subtle tactics that can sneak up on believers. Sometimes it is like a mist that rolls in. It goes unnoticed until it thickens into a deep fog. This fog can cause confusion and disorientation. Years ago, while living in the Rogue Valley in Oregon, we experienced a weather inversion. There was no wind for days and the fog became thicker and thicker. Because the fog obscured normal landmarks, people lost their way. The government issued health alerts because the air quality was so bad. This went on for days. Normal, peaceful people became angry and frustrated much more easily because of the pollutants in the air. This went on for days.

We got used to it. We didn’t really understand the scope of the problem until we left the valley and drove back into the sunshine. The difference was shocking! Oppression is like that. It starts very subtly, and if we don’t deal with it, it gets worse and worse. It clouds our thinking and makes it hard to see clearly. It targets our emotions. As a result, we find ourselves dealing with anxiety, fear, and a lack of peace in an ever increasing manner. Self-pity draws us inward, and we isolate.

To be honest, I started noticing some of these symptoms a few weeks ago. Lack of confidence, insecurity which led to uncertainty started creeping in, in areas I normally had no trouble with! Life felt hard, and joy was hard to find. I first made excuses. Life hasn’t been easy for our family and I just blamed those things. But, I am so grateful for the Holy Spirit. He whispered, “oppression”.

Oppression? I suddenly felt freer, just knowing the truth of what I was fighting. The enemy tool had me focusing on what was wrong with me. He tried to get my focus off of the Lord and His workings, and onto myself. And, I admit, it worked for a while. Since then, I have noticed others dealing with some of the same things!

I would like to remind you, God has given us His armor. Paul’s exhortation to put on the whole armor, not just part of it, is invaluable. The helmet of salvation is so key to protecting our mind. Satan delights in targeting our thoughts with his condemnation, fear, and hopelessness. This can lead to self pity, which is never helpful for anyone. Forgetting to access this helmet opens us up to his lies and deception. We wander through life feeling like we are all alone, without help and hope. What a lie! As you put on this helmet, remind yourself of Philippians 4: 8. And now dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. It can take effort to do the “fixing”, but it is so worth it. Praise and worship are excellent tools to shift our thinking away from our own puny selves and onto Him.

Wearing the helmet reminds us who we belong to. Every time a sailor or soldier puts on their uniforms, they remember their commitment to Uncle Sam. I know that, in the Navy, sailors refer to their hats as “covers.” What a wonderful reminder. When we put on the helmet of salvation, we are covered. We are protected by Him. Beginning your day with Him, in His Word and prayer, is essential. Walking together closely with other brothers and sisters is also essential to walk in freedom and clarity.

My friends, oppression can make it difficult to ask for prayer. Lies and condemnation can lead to shame and discouragement. I would like to remind you, every believer is a target for Satan. If you need prayer, ask for it. I did. What a relief when the oppression lifted. Sometimes we need the two or three standing together to break its hold on us. That’s why God adopted us into His family, so we wouldn’t be alone.

Please take the time to re-acquaint yourself with the whole armor of God found in Ephesians 6. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints. ESV.

Satan’s plan in using oppression is to make us useless for God’s Kingdom. He wants us to feel powerless, hopeless and weak. But this is not who we are. We’ve been given power over every wile, strategy, or scheme of the enemy. Stand strong my friends. No matter what you are facing right now, God has a solution. Remember: God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love and a self-discipline (sound mind). 1Timothy 1:7. NLT. Take the authority God has already given you to speak freedom and life into your circumstances. He is the way maker and will show you how and where to walk through whatever valley you are in. Remind yourself of the price He has paid for you. He will take care of you at that expensive price! It doesn’t mean we won’t face hard challenges. It means He knows the outcome and is working them together for His good plan. No matter what it looks like, He is worthy of our trust.

I was thinking about believers who are in prison today for their faith. Comparing their life to mine is foolish, but also sobering. I pray for them. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. 2 Corinthians 1:3-5. ESV. When we face oppression or afflictions, we must walk with faith. We must have faith in our Lord. Having faith in His purposes in and through our lives is crucial. It is essential to living a fruitful life in Him.

Father, I thank you for breaking the spirit of oppression that is affecting any of your children reading this post. Remind us to put on the whole armor of God, you have so freely given to us. Help us stay alert to the wiles and strategies of the enemy. Guide us not only for our protection but also for the sake of others. In Jesus’ Name, amen.