Faith and Burden Bearing

April 4, 2025 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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!

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

Faith 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 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 the Power of “Yes”

June 27, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

“Let’s go at once to take the land,” he said. “We can certainly conquer it.” Numbers 13:30. NLT.

The quote above is brave courageous Caleb talking, encouraging his fellow Israelites to enter the land God promised them. He and the other eleven spies spent forty days exploring the territory. They found amazing reasons to want to enter this land. They declared it was a land flowing with milk and honey. Fruit so large it took two men to carry a single cluster of grapes! There were pomegranates and figs! Can you imagine how wonderful they must have tasted after manna (and a bit of quail?) They had been traveling about two years at this point. I imagine the moms with small children were looking forward to a settling place, instead of traveling.

Unfortunately, the majority ruled in the decision. Ten nos to two yeses left them with a forty-year journey. Sometimes, when others don’t say “yes” to God’s plans, it causes us to bear the effects of their nos. I wonder what encouraging faith stories we would have had if they had said, “we can do it!” When I read this story, I get frustrated with the ten, but I don’t know which side I would have been on if I had actually been there!

By God’s grace, I have experienced the power of saying “yes” to God’s leading. Darryl and I left Idaho with two small children, headed for Providence, Rhode Island. We had forty dollars and the Word of the Lord to depend on. It was an amazing, challenging but faith building experience. Our VW van lost a tire going down a 6% grade outside Billings, Montana. The Holy Spirit led us to contact a pastor who helped us get a new tire and $50.00. We drove on to Youngstown, Ohio, where I met his grandparents. His grandparents handed us two cards from other family members. They turned out to be new baby congratulation cards for our daughter Elizabeth, who was six months old! These cards contained the cash we needed to continue the rest of our journey where we arrived with $50! As Darryl and I prayed together, in unity, we found out just what an amazing supplier our God really is. As I think about the faith and peace we left Idaho with, I marvel at God’s goodness. I think Caleb and Joshua had that same faith when they said, we can do it.

When we said “yes” to this trip, we did not know that it would open doors that are still open for relationships and ministry. We could have stayed “fear locked” in Idaho, but we didn’t. Is there anywhere in your life that fear has locked you out of God’s future? If so, it’s not too late. Just say “yes” and move on through whatever door He opens.

If I am honest, I also have stories where I tried to justify my “nos”. Just the other day, I felt to stop by my friend’s store and encourage her, but I didn’t feel I was “dressed” right, so I drove on. I felt the Holy Spirit tell me later, “then don’t leave the house dressed in a way that would hinder you from saying yes to my leading.” Oops. This left me feeling “small” and wondering what encouragement my friend could have used that day. I made it about me, not Him or her. When I saw her the next time, I apologized for ignoring the Lord’s prompting. It was a learning lesson for us both.

Friends, have you been praying for open doors for ministry to your family or friends? Have you asked Him to use you to bring light, hope, and love to this world? Then say “yes” to His promptings. Make a call, send a card, give a financial gift–do whatever He says, the power of saying Yes to His will may surprise you. Are you bored with your walk with Him? It may be because you delayed in saying “yes” to Him in some area of your life. Delaying to say “yes”, is in reality a “no”. If the Israelites had just gone into the land, ignoring their fears and trusting the Lord they would have experienced some astounding victories, I am sure. Do not let fear stop you from saying yes, no matter what it looks or feels like. Saying yes to Him releases strength, wisdom and insight to win whatever battle you are facing. Saying no, only land locks you into fear and stagnancy. My friends, you can say yes to Him, this day. Don’t focus on the giants, but focus yourself on our powerful, mighty God. You won’t regret it.

Father, I thank you for courage today to say yes to your will and your ways. Forgive us for ignoring or delaying your assignments for our lives, no matter how big or how small. Help us grow in trusting you and I thank you for freeing your people from both big and little fears this day, In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

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Faith and Great Reminders

October 19, 2023October 19, 2023 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

Always give thanks to God the Father for everything. Ephesians 5:20; Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. I Thessalonians 5:18.

This morning my soon to be 94-year-old sister, Betty called me. She has been a widow for many years and suffers from different bodily complaints as an older saint. But she still is amazing! Betty called to remind me that Jesus is faithful and we should never forget, in our own suffering situations, what our dear Savior went through for us. She is always so encouraging and if you ask her how she is, her usual reply is: “I am thankful”. It was a great reminder.

It just so happened that after I finished my conversation with her, I read Matthew 27, the story of Jesus’ Crucifixion. What a horrible death he endured for us. To read about the mocking, jeering and the nailing made me feel so very humbled and small. The interesting thing to me is that Betty’s own daughter, my niece, has been enduring a horrific battle with her health. She had a knee replacement about May or so, and during a followup appointment, the doctor noticed she was very yellow. Subsequent tests revealed she has pancreatic cancer. But during this medical journey, the doctors missed gall bladder issues, so hers ruptured. They put in drains and she kept getting infections…in an out of the hospital. She was too weak to have the chemo at times. Every issue has been painful and difficult, but she, like her mother, finds things to be grateful about. I don’t want to keep sharing all the ugly bits about this journey, but nothing about it has been easy. She is now on TPN. It is a nutrition program taken via her blood vessels. We are praying she will be strong enough in a few weeks for the surgeon to remove what is left of her gallbladder, take out as much of her pancreatic tumor as possible and correct a fistula that has developed. Our family is standing with her. We are still trusting that God is moving and listening to our prayers. Anne is the kindness, most wonderful woman you could every meet, and yet she is dealing with these ongoing struggles with a rest and trust in her Savior.

About the same time, Anne’s pancreatic cancer was discovered, my sister Mary was diagnosed with cancer as well. She has had 12 chemo treatments and 1 infusion treatment. Tomorrow she has surgery to remove the rest of her tumor and get some lymph nodes checked. Then she has about another year of infusions to complete her journey. It has not been easy, but compared to what Anne is dealing with, it has been a walk in the park! But neither of these family members and their suffering has ever come close to what Jesus went through for us.

After they finished nailing him to the cross and were waiting for him to die, they whiled away the time by throwing dice for his clothes. Above his head they had posted the criminal charge against him: THIS IS JESUS,THE KING OF’s THE JEWS. (Matthew 27:35-36 MSG). People passing along the road jeered, shaking their heads in mock lament. You bragged that you could tear down the Temple and then rebuild it in three days–so show us your stuff! Save yourself! If you’re really God’s Son, come down from that cross!” The high priests, along with the religion scholars and leaders were right their mixing it up with the rest of them, having a great time poking fun at him; He saved others—He can’t save himself. But, of course, that wasn’t the worse of it, I believe. Eli, Eli sambachthani…which means, ‘My God, my God, what have you abandoned me?” This separation from the Father and bearing our sins must have been excruciating for him. He suffered physical pain, but also emotional and spiritual pain. The amazing thing, He was able, amid his own pain, to pray for us as Luke 23:34 declares: then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing”. Oh my friends, as my sister reminded me, we too often forget the cost and suffering our Savior actually went through for us. Can we, amid our struggles simply be grateful we have a Savior?

No matter what you are going through or facing, please know you are not alone. Our wonderful heavenly Father is with you, helping and working on your behalf. I am going to keep praying for Anne, that she will get on an easier path, but until then I can only trust our Savior with her. Right now, I don’t have time nor the energy to ask the Lord for the “whys” of Anne’s situation. I simply press on believing that He that has begun a good work will complete it, that is why he suffered and died for us.

Let us not forget to be grateful and thankful for Him in our life. It is challenging to hear of the obstacles and challenges that keep coming to Anne. But instead of growing weary in fighting the fight with her, we are praying even more. Don’t shy away from any fight you are in, spiritually speaking. Stay in it. Keep on trusting, releasing your faith and waiting for Him to show up. He will. Pray with me for Anne, please, our family appreciates it!

Let’s not let the work Jesus did and suffered for be in vain. Struggles and difficulties will be had in this life, but it is so much easier to walk and work them through with Him than without, amen? What do you really think about during communion? It is the great reminder that was instituted to help us remember what price was paid for our salvation.

Father, I thank you for loving us, caring for us and being patient when we forget the significant cost you spent for us. Forgive us for taking it so lightly and complaining about our lives. Help us press on and run the individual race you have called each of us to run, this day, In Jesus’ Name, amen.

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Faith and Distress

September 6, 2018 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

Is it just me, or does it seem like more and more friends, family and acquaintances are dealing with much more serious struggles? Sickness, disease, financial woes, relational or occupational set backs seem to be increasing for so many. Some of these difficulties are self-induced, but others are brought on by our living in a sinful world. My care and concern can cause me to become distressed on their behalf (as if my own challenges were not enough!) I admit sometimes I want to go back into my turtle shell and hide from these serious things.

But, that is not what the Holy Spirit wants us to do. He wants us to run to the challenge and engage in the battle. When we feel chaos around us is attempting to overtake us, we must remember God has given the voice to speak peace to the storms.

We must remember that even the “self-induced” struggles–brought on by sinful choices can be used by the Lord for good as repentance takes place. My daily Bible reading brought me to Paul’s second letter to the Corinthian church this week. Part of Paul’s first letter to these brothers and sisters dealt with divisions, sexual sin, pride and how to deal with legal disputes. He used very clear exhortation of how they (we) should be living.

By 2 Corinthians 7:10 he shares the wonderful fruit of his words. He spoke into the chaos that was trying to reign in that church and here is his response. Distress that drives us to God does that. It turns us around. It gets us back in the way of salvation. We never regret that kind of pain. Bu those who let distress drive them away from God are full of regrets, end up on a deathbed of regrets.

And now, isn’t it wonderful all the ways in which this distress has goaded you closer to God? You’re more alive, more concerned, more sensitive, more reverent, more human, more passionate, more responsible. Looked at from any angle, you’ve come out of this with purity of heart. And that is what I was hoping for in the first place when I wrote the letter. My primary concern was not for the one who did the wrong or even the one wronged, but for you–that you would realize and act upon the deep, deep ties between us before God. That’s what happened–and we felt just great.

Speaking the truth in love can be stressful and cause us distress. My question to each of us: do you speak the truth in love to yourself? How do you react to God’s voice of conviction or re-direction? Do you beat yourself up? Or do you walk in His grace, forgiveness and mercy. We are called to be merciful. That means to ourselves as well. Let us practice mercy on ourselves. Changing where needed, of course, but as we respond to His love, we will be modeling to others that Love and Care He has for them.

Father help us walk in your peace. Help us to speak peace in the midst of our own chaos and find your direction and blessing. Thank you for the gift of your forgiveness and mercy, help us share it with others. In Jesus Name, amen

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Faith and Foundations

October 19, 2017October 19, 2017 Martha Rodman5 Comments

I had a revelation this morning. I actually have a Bible verse that has rooted deep in my spirit as an overriding guideline in my life. Two of my foundation scriptures are Job 13:15 Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him and John 6:68 Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. These two scriptures have held me steady through my darkest days and nights. They have carried me when I struggled to find direction and hope. I lean on these words because I know they are true. There is no other Savior and even when I feel frustrated with my life, I know I must find my answer within Him–in his ways and in his word.

But my revelation this morning is that I Timothy 4:12. Don`t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity is actually the go to verse in how I live my life. I reference it all the time–but until this morning I had not really focused on how strongly it affects my day-to-day actions.

I know I am not young anymore (yes, it is an understatement) but I remember reading it when I was young–even in my teens and I thought if I can walk in the wisdom of this verse I will go along way in becoming the kind of believer God and I want me to be! Have I achieved it? Not by a long shot, but the simple phrase “be an example to the believers” comes to my mind almost every day. It is like having a filter over my life in a good way.

Be an example in what I say is a tough one. Swearing was never allowed or modeled in my childhood home, and I tried to speak words of life to my children however at times my own words to myself were/are not always the words of a believer. Self doubt, self-criticism and insecurities are areas that I have struggled with–this scripture helps remind me that I need to be an example of the believer in my own self talk! It is one of my heart goals to speak life-giving words to those around me an area I am still working on.

Be an example in the way I live is easier to read than to practice. However it is an area where by faith we can do it. If we think living the Christian life is too hard then we are trying to do it without his help, and that is impossible. What a blessing it is to ask his for his wisdom, strength and insight in how he wants us to live our lives.

Be an example in your love can be challenging many times. My natural love falls short and then I struggle to love those I deem “difficult to love”. Usually my pride or a critical spirit roars their ugly head and the Holy Spirit gently reminds me of my need for the cross in my own salvation and I grow a bit deeper in my ability to love others. Living in the light of God’s love greatly assists me in these struggles.

Be an example in your faith is something I have learned to accept is a process. By his grace I actually can see where I have grown in this area. I also am stirred to believe him for more. As the Word of God works in my spirit (faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God) I know I will grow in my example in this area as well.

Being an example in purity outwardly I do not find too difficult, it is the need for renewing my mind and employing Philippians 4:6 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, honorable, and right, and pure,and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. I confess to you I am working on this! Negative thoughts abound at times, but some how by the grace of the Holy Spirit he brings me back into alignment and most often it is because of I Timothy 4:12. I am so grateful for God`s presence in my life and how he shows me how to grow in each of these areas.

How about you? Have you discovered any life verses or foundation truths that you stand on in trials or troubles? Or do you have any scriptures that guard, guide and lead you through your Christian life? I would love to hear them! Because each of our relationships with our Heavenly Father is distinct and unique what strengthens you in your walk may be different from me, but we can always learn from each other.

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Faith and Encouragement from Past Brothers and Sisters

October 12, 2017 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

What a blessing 1 Thessalonians is! I would encourage you to take the time to read through this relatively short book. It doesn’t necessarily contain a lot of theology, but it sure contains much encouragement. Paul, Silas and Timothy wrote this book together. The church at Thessalonica was the second major church founded on the European continent, and was an amazing mix of Jewish and Gentile converts.

Paul and his missionary team made several outreach trip by the leading of the Holy Spirit and they did not just birth new churches, but they became involved in the lives of their converts. 1 Thessalonians 1:2 gives us an insight into how much they loved and cared for this body of believers. We always thank God for all of you and pray for you constantly. Wouldn’t you love to receive a letter with those kind words? Impart Ministries is a mobile ministry and for years Darryl and I traveled like circuit rider preachers of old from church to church. We fell in love with each church by the grace of the Holy Spirit. It was tiring traveling, but we were always refreshed by being together with each special church. I find myself with an aching heart to go and visit each and every church that are still very much in my soul. So I have somewhat of an understanding of Paul’s heart in this matter.

There were some special attributes that the authors complimented this church family. As we pray to our God and Father about you, we think of your faithful work, your loving deeds, and the enduring hope you have because of our Lord Jesus Christ (I Thessalonians 1:3 ) These folks were faithful. They loved one another and they kept their hope alive even as verse 6 declares in spite of severe suffering it brought you. These people counted the cost and kept on going even when it caused them suffering and hardship. I am writing this blog to encourage us to keep on going. Keep on walking in spite of the struggles you may be facing. Keep on walking through the “why bother” thoughts, the “I am too tired”, “nobody else is doing this” lies. These are lies my dear friends. We keep on walking and running our race because of our dear Savior Jesus Christ. We do not want his suffering to be in vain. We want it to count for something. Because of Paul and his teams investment in this church, they became encouragers to others. As a result, you have become an example to all the believers in Greece–throughout both Macedonia an Achaia. (1:7) You probably will not know the influence you have on others till you get to heaven. Can you imagine the encouragement they were to Paul because they stood in the face of adversity. And then, dear brothers and sisters, you suffered persecution from your own countrymen. (2:14)

Paul and the team moved on to other areas of ministry but they did not forget their love, care and responsibility to this church. They tried to go back several times to visit them. Dear brothers and sisters, after we were separated from you for a little while (though our hearts never left you), we tried very hard to come back because of our intense longing to see you again. We wanted very much to come to you, and I, Paul, tried again and again, but Satan prevented us. (2:17-18) Finally they sent Timothy to visit them. We sent him to strengthen you, to encourage you in your faith, and to keep you from being shaken by the troubles you were going through. But you know that we are destined for such troubles. (3:2-3).
We all need strengthening, encouraging and reminding that trouble is part of this world. I think as humans we try to avoid all trouble and are sometimes surprised when it comes. But Jesus said that in this life we will have trouble, but I want to know that each trouble we face we do not face them alone and it will always be worth it. Dear friends, I have heard of people walking away from their faith in this season, it grieves me deeply. I wonder why, what happened? Verse 4: even while we were with you, we warned you that troubles would soon come–and they did as you well know. That is why, when I could bear it no longer, I sent Timothy to find out whether your faith was still strong. I was afraid that the tempter had gotten the best of you and that our work had been useless.

We have a tempter that comes to each of us. He is no respecter of persons, places or pursuits. Young or old in the faith he seeks whomever he can devour. Please be alert and on watch for his activity in your soul or spirit. The body of Christ needs you to stand strong in this day. Let us take hope and courage from our brothers and sisters in Thessalonica and be steadfast in His ways. Paul and his team were fighting opposition where they were and it encouraged there hearts when Timothy returned with his good report of their standing. God wants to use us to encourage others. We can do it!