Faith and Contentment

August 1, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. Philippians 4:11. NLT.

Photo by Tirachard Kumtanom on Pexels.com

Pastor Josh Hubbard preached from this verse this past Sunday and it stirred my heart. To me it is one of those “re-setting” verses in the Bible that remind me of not only whose I am, but also life’s processes. Paul makes it clear that contentment is a learned attribute and is attainable.

Most definitions of biblical contentment include the state of being satisfied, at peace, and emotionally fulfilled with what one has or the circumstance one finds themselves in.. I don’t know about you, but I definitely move in and out of the state of contentment. Tuesday, we celebrated Eva Bunica’s 83 birthday. She is my daughter in law’s aunt, and I have known her for fourteen years. She has had many struggles in her life. She grew up in Romania under Communist rule. It was very difficult to be a believer during that era. But it was the religious persecution that God used to bring her and ultimately her brother’s family to the United States. Over the years, as we have talked, it was clear that it took the Holy Spirit time to heal and restore her from fear and anxiety they lived under. Their bodies were free, but their souls needed His restoration. I think it would be right to say, it took awhile for them to be content in a new country as well.

This has not been an easy year for her. Many health issues and a surprise needed pacemaker are only a part of her challenges. But there is a new peace and I would have to add contentment to her. We spent some time quietly talking, and she actually quoted this verse. She said, “I’ve learned to be content” about everything in my life. He is with me, so why not? As we talked she shared how she spent time with the Lord and during that time, her attitude was changed. Her outward situation didn’t. But she did. I think that is what Paul was trying to convey with Philippians 4: 12-13. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.

Contentment has to do with our perspective and attitude, not our circumstances. It involves capturing those thoughts that would run to fear, anxiety, doubt or unbelief. It is choosing faith over those things, with knowing God is in charge, not you. So no matter what you face, He is there with His purpose and plan.

I Timothy 6:6 For godliness with contentment is great gain (or wealth).

Hebrews 13:5 Don’t love money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, “I will never fail you. I will never abandon you. So we can say with confidence. The Lord is my helper, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me.

Learning to be content is something our teacher, the Holy Spirit longs to teach each of us. Young moms struggling with toddler tantrums and nap refusals may find it difficult to feel contentment. I remember those days, but I found contentment in knowing that I was in my calling. It was my assignment to help those little humans to learn about life. My contentment was in His purpose. I also regularly cried out for His wisdom on how to do it!

Abiding in Christ’s contentment does not mean we can not or should not have an ambition for change. Seeking Him for His changes often comes from a place of peace where we can hear His voice. It is harder to find His leadings when we are in the midst of chaos and turmoil in our own souls. When we are contented we stop complaining and start to enjoy our life, even while believing for that promotion or relationship to show up!

Take time to reflect on your current circumstance. Are you content? Or are you striving? Are you looking for something to change so you can “be happy”? You haven’t arrived at the state of contentment yet. It is amazing how our faith is tied in with contentment. When we are “content” faith is much more easily released than when we are discontent. Grumbling, complaining and irritation block joy and faith. Gratitude, thankfulness and peace flow from a contented person. So what is your contentment level? My friends, do not be afraid to check it. If you realize you need to grow in this area, simply ask Him. Sitting in His Presence worshipping is a great way to start. Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Hebrews 12:1-3. NLT It comes down again, to keeping our focus on Him, not ourselves or our circumstances. Discontentment comes from giving in to the lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh or the pride of life. Listening to lies about how we aren’t good enough, or why do they have this or that does not lead to contentment. It takes practice to keep our eyes focused on Him. If they drift away, repent and start again. It gets easier and easier with practice. We do not have to live lives with nagging thoughts plaguing us. That never was His plan.

Father, I ask you to teach us how to live in the state of contentment. Reveal areas of our soul where we struggle to find peace in Your will and Your way. Help us to trust Your plan in every area of our lives, In Jesus’ Name, amen.

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Faith and Rest

July 25, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength, but you would have none of it. Isaiah 30:15 NLT.

As I have been reading through the book of Isaiah, I have been struck by how far God’s people have strayed from His purpose and plan. But even though He gave them rich and wonderful promises, they refused to listen. God has told his people, there is a place of rest; let the weary rest here. There is a quiet rest, but they would not listen. Isaiah 28:12. NLT.

I actually thought, “how can you be so dumb!”. You traded your powerful, amazing God for the idols of your neighboring countries. You thought idols of wood and stone, along with pagan worship practices, would bring your freedom and life, but you were so wrong. But then I thought about myself. Do I access God’s rest and promises in the fullness that I can or should?
Life has been busy and, if I can admit it, a bit stressful lately. I need to trust His promises even more than ever. A couple of weeks ago, I woke up with vertigo. I felt like a drunken sailor. My furniture placement proved helpful in navigating to the bathroom because I needed its stability! My dear daughter -in- law Becca came over and did some kind of blood pressure test to make sure it wasn’t anything serious, but I had to rest.

I realize I am not very good at resting. Someone asked me today about my Sabbath. Hmmm, I try to plan it usually on Fridays, but it hasn’t been happening lately. So when the dizziness re-appeared today, I was forced to retreat to my bed and rest. Both the end of the scripture in Isaiah 28:12 and 30:15 tell the Israelites that there is an opportunity to rest, but they “would not.” I think we are not much different than they were–we want the “rest” but we want it on our terms.

Psalm 23:1-2 The Lord is my shepherd, I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. Is He my shepherd? Am I allowing Him to lead and guide me to those peaceful, restful places? I have to admit, not like I used to. Dehydration can cause all kinds of symptoms. My water intake has been noticeably reduced, which can lead to vertigo. So, I am back to focusing on water, rest and food! I don’t want to be like the Israelites “who would not” take advantage of God’s wisdom.

This morning I sat and read Isaiah 40-44. Such amazing words of life are in these passages. These are sections that promise a wonderful Savior is coming, and we know who He is. We get to walk and rest with Him, if we don’t get too busy doing our own thing. Have you never heard? Have you never understood? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of all the earth. He never grows weak or weary. No one can measure the depths of his understanding. He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless. Isaiah 40:28. Sometimes, we as believers act like we have never heard of Him!

Yes, this is our God. The one we get to walk with. Are you feeling weak or frail? Not just your body, but in your soul? Take the time to wait on and with Him. But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary, They will walk and not faint. Isaiah 40: 33. This is our promise my friends, but it will only happen if we allow Him to lead and guide us to those resting places. He has them prepared for you, but you must take the time to enter into His rest. Fretting, worrying, fear, anxiety are not found in His presence. Remember, this next verse is not just something to quote, but something to actually learn to walk out. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4: 6-7. During this busy, stressful time, not only did I neglect hydration, I did not take the time to bring all my requests to the Lord. I thought I was, but as I wrote out that scripture, I recognized I was just carrying them in my head and not casting them off to Him. Maybe I am not the only one?

Father, I thank you for teaching us how to enter into Your rest. I thank you for forgiving us for not letting You be our Shepherd and trying to run our own lives. Help us re-set today and start anew. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

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Faith and Refuge

July 18, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in trouble. Psalm 46:1. NLT

This past February I got the joy of being invited to go to Disneyland with my daughter, Elizabeth and her family. Through God’s amazing and various provisions, the seven of us planned and anticipated this adventure. It just so happened that our planned Disney days took place during some of the heaviest rains Anaheim had experienced in years! The heavens opened and the streets literally became rivers. There are no “refunds for rainy days” at Disneyland. It is go or lose your money! The storms of life are like that too–there is no getting away from them.

The other day, I felt overwhelmed as I prayed for some of my friends and family situations. They face challenges for their families that break my heart. It caused a sort of “soul storm” in my emotions. I wanted to run away from those challenges, but in reality, I needed a refuge from them. A place of safety where I could sort through my emotions, rather than hiding from them. Have you ever experienced that? You want to run away. That is when we have a choice. We can either run to God, or run to our hobbies, food, alcohol, or other distractions. As I made the choice (this time!) to run to Him, not only did peace come, but so did faith. As I released this faith in prayer, I knew God not only had their problems but also them. I was able to intercede for them with greater faith.

The Hebrew word for “refuge” in this verse is machseh. It means a shelter, refuge, protection, or fortress. It also includes the idea of a hope and a place of trust; and the obvious: a shelter from storms. When we run to Him as a refuge, hope must come. Are you struggling with any storms or troubles in your life? Do you feel battered and bruised? God is waiting for you to go to Him. It is always available, but if we don’t access it, we won’t have it.

Sometimes, as I seek His refuge, I just sit in His Presence. I might turn on worship music or sit in silence, slowly focusing on Him, not the storms. Gradually, as I sit there I feel strengthened because He is not just a God who provides refuge, He is a God who wants to strengthen us to not just hide from our troubles, but learn how to face them victoriously.

After the sitting and “catching my breath” phase, I then begin to share with Him about the situation. It is not to give Him the information–for, of course He already knows it, but often as I share clarity comes. I begin to be able to sort out the difference between my feelings and the facts of the situation. Many times this is when the thread of solution begins to open up. Psalm 62:8 encourages us: Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us. We find David, in Psalm 142:2-3 declaring I pour out my complaints before him and tell him all my troubles. When I am overwhelmed, you alone know the way I should turn. He found it solace in sharing with the Lord all his thoughts–including his complaints. If you have never verbalized your thoughts and feelings out loud, try it. It may sound silly to say, but it makes a difference, especially hearing your own words and thoughts. Praying audibly is a valuable tool for your tool belt.

This is a reminder that we all can have access to His refuge. Don’t try to live through your storms without a shelter. Go to Him. Ask Him for His strength, insight and wisdom in dealing with every trouble you are facing. Jesus left us some encouraging and comforting but tough words to hear in John 16: Jesus asked, “Do you finally believe? But the time is coming–indeed it’s here now–when you will be scattered, each one going his own way, leaving me along. Yet I am not alone because the Father is with me. I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world. John 16:31-33. NLT. I think the sooner we learn how to abide in the shelter of the Almighty (Psalm 91:1) and not be surprised that we have many trials and sorrows, the sooner we receive His strength and help with those trials and sorrows.

When we abide in His refuge, He often reminds us to put on His armor, to cast our cares or to remember we can do all things through Christ who does in fact strengthen us! I have never lived in “tornado alley”, but I imagine those folks prepare, and prepare well, because they know storms are inevitable. We can learn to prepare for the troubles we face as well. Remember, you are not alone. He is with you. Are you prepared?

Father, thank you for your provision from our storms and trials. We can take heart that we can overcome the with Your strength and help. Teach us to turn quickly to you in our times of distress, instead of living outside the protection You have provided for us, In Jesus’ Name, amen.

“Rain Raining” by Markus Spiske/ CC0 1.0

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Faith and Fresh Trust

July 11, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

Unless your faith is firm, I cannot make you stand firm. Isaiah 7:9b. NLT.

I read this portion of scripture a few days ago, and it struck me quite hard. The NKJV says “If you will not believe, surely you shall not be established…”. As I have been walking through life’s challenges this past week, I realized, God is working in our hearts to help is stand strong in Him, His Word and His Ways. It is time my friends, to refresh your trust in Who HE Is!

It seems life has been more challenging for more people lately. It is like one of those video games where you start out on a easy level where things are at a slower pace and you can keep up. Then as you move up more levels, the enemy is firing more often with even stronger fire balls at you. For me, I get overwhelmed and quit. Which is an easy thing to do, because it is a game. Life not so much. Many of my friends are facing extremely difficult decisions about how to do life, financially, emotionally and spiritually. They are struggling, but standing. I have been praying for them, a lot! My trust in Him and His ways is either firm, or it isn’t. The good news is that God understands our shaky ways, and He has a plan.

Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees. Say to those who are fearful-hearted, be strong do not fear! Behold your God will come with vengeance, with the recompense of God; He will come and save you. Isaiah 35: 3-4. NKJV Do your knees need to be strengthened? Are they feeling a bit feeble? I want to encourage you to cling to the Lord. Whatever you are facing, He will help you. He will show up and in His time the battle will be over. At times, during my own struggles, I think what would Jesus do if He were here? He would stand and win. Then I remember, He is here, fighting for me and with me. I can rest in Him, even during the fight!

Maybe your battle is with yourself. It happens. My advice? Just surrender to Him and His will, tell Him your struggles and lean in to Him. Surround yourself with believers who can help strengthen those weaker areas. But it really is up to each of us, to either choose to trust Him and His ways or not. To allow the fruit of the Spirit to be cultivated in our hearts versus allowing the works of the flesh to reign. Ask for prayer and counseling. Listen to it and apply it. Take courage from the testimony of others. I have never found Him lacking, myself yes, Him, never. I encourage myself with Paul’s many trials that are listed in 2 Corinthians. I haven’t been beaten, stoned, shipwrecked or thrown into prison for my faith. If he can do it and stay strong in his faith, I can go through my trials and tests, and so can you.

Maybe it is time for you to refresh your trust in the Who you are trusting. Don’t wait another day. Make the time to spend quality time in His Presence. You will find your hands strengthened, your knees firmed up and with a new resolve that life is doable. It is easy to forget, in the middle of so many battles, that we have a Savior, but we do! Answers to your prayers may take time, but fellowship with Him can happen at any time. And during the fellowship of our sufferings we can come to know Him in a deeper manner. Enduring hard things is part of what life is about. It is so much easier doing those hard things together with Him, than alone.

We must take time to consider, “do we want to grow stronger in our faith and trust, or do we just want to complain about our struggles?” God’s help is always available, but there are times when people resist His help. That is part of the reason Isaiah wrote “unless your faith is firm, I cannot make you firm”, again, it is our choice. My friends, choose Him, it’s always worth it.

Father, I thank you for renewing and refreshing our trust in Who you are. I thank you that as we read Your Word, we can discover You and Your Ways and they are good. I ask you to strengthen those who are feeling weak and feeble today. Send Your Word of encouragement to them, 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 Being a Disciple

June 13, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:18-20. NLT.

When was the last time you acknowledged, identified, accepted the fact that you are a disciple of Jesus Christ? Living as a disciple should cause major shifts in our thinking. We are truly not our own, but His. A disciple must, inherently , be a learner. They set themselves to learn from their leader.

We find the heart of Jesus in this passage. He wants his followers to go and make disciples. I read something someone wrote called the 3 F’s of discipleship. These three F’s are: follow, fellowship and fish. Being a disciple means we follow Jesus. We learn to do things as He desires. It is not our will, but His will that is foremost in our mind. What would Jesus do? How would He do it? If we are not sure, we can search His Word, or ask trusted leaders. You may not always get it right, but a heart to do right is a substantial shift to begin with. Which is why He includes baptizing them in the name of the Father, and the Son and the Holy Spirit. We must remember we cannot become disciples without the power of the Holy Spirit, and we do not have to. When we relegate our “discipleship” to mental assent and intellectual pursuit, we fall short of the power that changes us on the inside, because, foremost, discipleship deals with heart change.

To be a disciple, we must be teachable. We must allow the Holy Spirit to show us wrong thinking and wrong acting. Letting go of “what seems right to a man,”, and choosing to trust God’s wisdom takes humility. Included in that humility means finding the truth and letting that become your truth. When was the last time you learned something new? Or let go of old understandings? I’ve known all along the Bible teaches about forgiveness, but studying Matthew 18:35 in our Life Group has made it very clear we must forgive. It is not an option. I understood it on one level, but it has become much clearer lately. Learning these types of truths, which really do set us free, requires the renewing of our minds, which only our God can help us do.

Jesus clarifies: teaching them to obey all the commands. Wow, as a disciple, we must allow the Holy Spirit to give us commands. This definitely goes against our western independence! There are definite commands that, as a disciple, we must shift our thinking to accept. A mature disciple accepts these commandments because he trusts His master. He is willing to “endure the fellowship of his sufferings”. A disciple is not a fair- weathered friend, but perseveres to the end. Paul is such an amazing example for us. Read through Paul’s list of things he went through in Acts and 2 Corinthians 6. There is a cost of fellowship, but we must remember what we are purchasing.

As we develop our fellowship with Christ, we have the joy of seeing others set free as they taste of His goodness through our lives. Having a loving, caring relationship with Jesus is amazing, and worth the cost no matter what. He is always with us. We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. 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. Romans 5:3-5. NLT. Being a disciple really does mean laying down our lives and taking up our cross daily. Not just when it seems more convenient or easy, but at His wisdom. We often run into trouble when we hear our assignment, but then try to do it alone. When my children were little and I would assign them a task, they would want to run off and do it without taking the time for instruction. They probably felt it took too long, and “they knew how to do it”. I have some grandchildren who want to figure everything out themselves, but, once again, that is not the stance of a disciple. We are learners, listeners and submitters!

The last thing Jesus left them with was: And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age. Matthew 28:20. Dear friends, remember, we are not walking this journey of discipleship alone. Our God is with us. He is with us with all His provision, His love and His authority. We must learn how to use the authority given to us, the spiritual armor given, the fruit of the Spirit to become a fully mature disciple of Jesus Christ. He is well able to teach us. He has provided apostles, prophets, evangelists and pastors and teachers to equip the body of Christ. (Ephesians 4:11). Learning to learn from His leaders is another mark of maturity, then growing up into your specific calling. As disciples we move from milk to meat. We learn to love our brethren, and so much more. If you have forgotten that as a believer, you are called to be a disciple, then shift your thinking and get on with it! The body of Christ needs you.

Father, thank you for the privilege of being your disciple. Help us bring honor and glory to your name. I thank you for showing us how to persevere and follow you, no matter where You lead. Teach how to follow, fellowship and then become fishermen ourselves, in Jesus’ Name, amen.

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Faith and “Faith Legs”

June 6, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

So take a new grip with your tired hands and strengthen your weak knees. Hebrews 12:12 NLT

This past week a friend and member of our small group received some very disappointing news. It was very hard to hear, and it was one of those situations where much prayer had gone forth, with good expectations and then poor choices happened and sad news followed. Our small group is really family, so what hurts one hurts us all. As I wrote to encourage her, I actually wrote, “we’ve all had heart pain that knocks us sideways. You are not alone. We are with you. You will get your faith legs back. They actually are still there.” This was the first time I have ever used the phrase “faith legs”.

Most of us take our legs for granted. I watch my grandchildren hop up from the floor and run around, without thinking! This past year I have had trouble with my knees. Naturally, I have had to slow down a bit when rising from chairs and think twice about floor sitting with my granddaughter because I have to get up again! This has made me much more aware of my legs. We need them to walk, run, hop or skip! But our spiritual legs are even more important.

Spiritual battles are taking place all around us, in us, and hopefully through us to victories. Spiritual battles take courage. There are times, even with our spiritual armor put in place, we can receive wounds. We make it through a rough battle, celebrating God’s victory, breathing a sigh of relief. But we may not realize we have sustained some damage. When the next battle comes around, we may be reluctant to engage. This is Satan’s further attempt at sidelining God’s warriors. We find our hands tired (feeble) and our knees weak.

After my knees started protesting their job, I went to physical therapy. My PT person showed me various exercises to strengthen my knees–but mainly she said the thing I needed to do was strengthen my hips. I needed strong hips to give me stronger knees and legs. After a season of PT, I finally had an MRI, which discovered, not arthritis, but damaged tendons and ligaments. My orthopedic appointment yielded a “come back and see me when you don’t feel safe to walk across the floor”. When our spiritual knees and hands are weakened, we need strengthening exercises to become strong again. We need to go back to the Lord, asking for strength and restoration. There is healing in the Presence of the Lord. If we feel frustrated or weak, guilt may keep us from seeking Him, because we think we should/could have been stronger. Weakness just shows us where we need to be strengthened. There should be no guilt involved.

This comes back to “faith legs”. Paul tells the Ephesians: A final word: Be strong in the Lord and his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. Ephesians 6:10. Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Ephesians 13:11. It is God’s intention that we learn how to stand firm in our faith. Even amid any no’s we might receive. Disappointments are difficult to process. But they shouldn’t stop us from fighting on. Victories will never be won without a battle.

What may look like failure for a season, is just that. A season. Part of our walk with the Lord is understanding how to fall and then get back up. The godly may trip seven times, but they will get up again. Proverbs 24:16. My friends, we must set ourselves to rise again, not stay down. Often condemnation tries to keep us down, don’t let it. Remember: there is no condemnation to those who belong to Christ Jesus. Romans 8:1. When he says no, he means it!

Our getting up and back into the fight helps encourage others to do the same. Isaiah 35 encourages us: With this news, strengthen those who have tired hands, and encourage those who have weak knees. Say to those with fearful hearts, Be strong, and do not fear, for your God is coming to destroy your enemies, He is coming to save you. Isaiah 25:3-4. Encouraging others also helps encourage ourselves.

Strengthening our spiritual knees is done with prayer, worship and standing on the Word. Jesus’ parable about the house built on the rock versus the house built on the sand is true. If we find ourselves wobbly in the storms, we can discover if we are really standing on Him and His Word, or ourselves? Tests and trials come. If there are weak spots in your foundation, strengthen them with the Word. Keep on pursuing Him and His ways. Strengthen those faith legs, my friend. We need you!

Father, I thank you for showing us our weak areas. I thank you we can go back to you and learn to strengthen those weak areas. Teach us to walk, with the whole armor of God, not just the parts we think are important. Teach us to wield the sword of the Spirit as well. Thank you for stronger faith legs today. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

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Faith and Once Again God’s Grace

May 30, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

Hear my prayer, O Lord; listen to my plea! Answer me because you are faithful and righteous. Psalm 143:1

I have begun to love this Psalm. It was written by David during some very trying times. One way we can encourage ourself in the Lord is, like David, by reminding himself of God’s character traits. He reminds God is his faithfulness and righteousness. This past week has been a tough one for me. I found myself emotionally struggling for God’s footing and direction, when I came across Psalm 143. It was like a life-line for me.

Verse three: my enemy has chased me. He has knocked me to the ground and forces me to live in darkness like those in the grave. This is literally what David had to do. He was chased by enemies and was forced to live in very dark caves to preserve his own life. Often, it seems I chase my own self into dark caves, because I get my eyes off God and His light. He promises us that He is the light in our darkness. Our enemy can try to chase us to the dark, or we can choose to run to the light. Self pity, selfishness and woe is me thoughts lead us to dark places, don’t they? Thanksgiving, gratitude and hope lead us to the light.

But David goes even deeper into his complaints. I am losing all hope; I am paralyzed with fear. When we feel all hope is gone and allow fear to step in, we can also feel paralyzed with fear. It is a horrible feeling. When Darryl had his stroke, I immediately turned to the Lord. Riding in the aide car to the hospital, I found myself praying “I am not ready to be a widow, but I throw myself on to the rock of your righteousness”. It was only by God’s grace that I knew where to turn. My heart hurts for those who do not even know they have a God they can turn to. Before Darryl became a Christian and he was in life or death situations, he told me “I never cried out to anyone. It was just me and me alone and it was scary.” We need to share the good news that there is a God and He cares.

David then begins to remind himself of God and His works. I remember days of old. I ponder all your great works and think about what you have done. I lift my hands to you in prayer. I thirst for you as parched land thirsts for rain. Come quickly, Lord, and answer me, for my depressions deepens. Don’t turn away from me, or I will die. Psalm 143: 5-7. When we go through life’s challenges (or curve balls, like last weeks post), we need to stop and be honest with the Lord. As I read this Psalm last Friday, I felt like David. I needed Him to come and show me what to do. As I shared this scripture with someone, they asked, are you depressed? I could honestly answer the situation was depressing, but no, I am not depressed. But just reading David’s honest sharing with the Lord, helped me lift my load.

I began to gain even more hope as I read on. Let me hear of your unfailing love each morning, for I am trusting you. Show me where to walk, for I give myself to you. Psalm 143:8. Oh my friends, He longs to show us where and how to walk through our difficulties. Even when He seems silent, His grace is there helping us as we give ourselves to Him.

So David is going to the Light. He continues on by verse 10Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. May your gracious Spirit lead me forward on a firm footing. For the glory of your name, O Lord, preserve my life, because of your faithfulness bring me out of this distress. In your unfailing love, silence all my enemies and destroy all my foes, for I am your servant. Psalm 143: 10-12. NLT. This is quite a different ending from David’s beginning isn’t it?

David, once again, shows us how to go through hard things. We can learn to look for the light, remembering every testimony He has already given us. Tests and trials are God’s way of enhancing our relationship with Him. David shared his feelings, but he didn’t let them hinder him from moving on. Our enemy would love to shrink our God to his size and his ways. But His ways are not only higher than our ways, they always lead us to freedom and more grace. Have you prayed about your trial, or just complained about it?? Only when we take the time to pray about things, do they really change. Usually our heart changes first, then our circumstances. We can always trust His grace to bring us through everyone. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Hebrews 4:16.

Father, I thank you for helping us in our time of need by your abundant grace. I ask you to remind us to ask for your help, no matter what we face. It is Your grace that shows up when we feel alone, depressed and paralyzed with fear. David did not stay in fear or depressed, but overcame by God’s grace, and so can we. In Jesus Name, amen.

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Faith and Life’s Curve Balls

May 24, 2024 Martha Rodman2 Comments

You saw me before I was born, every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. Psalm 139:16 NLT

This scripture is such a comfort to me…especially when life’s curve balls (to me) happen! Our family has been thrown a few good size ones. The first was when my husband had his stroke in 2010 and then passed in 2012. It was a challenge, but I leaned upon Him and He held us. I learned how to manage some of life’s larger curve balls.

Two years ago, my son and his wife lost a special little girl, named Madeline, at only five months gestation. It was a rough time, not only emotionally but also physically, for my daughter-in-law. Last year, we celebrated the birth of their fourth child, another sweet girl, Sofia. However, Becca hemorrhaged soon after delivery, and we came close to losing her. So grateful for God’s grace and the hospital team that saved her life. This curve was not only unexpected, but I will admit it was traumatizing. I had to ask the Lord for restorative grace. I learned to focus on the actual good outcome, not focusing on the “what could have happened” scenarios. Thankfulness and gratitude became healing for me.

S0 this year, I was looking forward to a more “normal” summer. Celebrating with family and enjoying the Pacific Northwest’s special summer days. But, we have been challenged once again to trust our God and His plans. Our dear Becca has been diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer. Not only do I ask for your prayers, but I want to share with you some things I’ve learned from walking already through this new curve ball of life.

Once again, I am challenged to trust our God and His character. It is discovery time in my own soul of whether I trust Him or do I need to grow in more trust. My son has also been fighting sickness for quite a while, so it is hard to keep praying and expecting health and there hasn’t been a breakthrough. I felt the Holy Spirit asked me if I trusted Him with my son. I had to stop and consider. We know the journey and diagnosis that Becca faces, but they can’t seem to figure out what’s wrong with him. I had to admit to the Lord that it was scary and frustrating to keep expecting him to rise up healed. I know it will happen. I read something yesterday about delayed or seemingly unanswered prayers. When we get frustrated or angry because they aren’t answered we can change our perspective and spend the time praying to get to know Him better. Our time spent asking is not in vain and we need to continue with the knowledge and peace that the answer and timing is in His hands. But the more we wait with Him, the more we grow in our relationship with Him. The promises in His Word have become even more precious to me, a deeper learning lesson.

I woke up about 2:30 a.m. praying for them, this morning. As I talked to the Lord about them, He showed me the need for someone to help with the baby during the day. My son asked me if I could hang out with their one-year-old today, as the Lord had already shown me! So another lesson I keep learning is trusting Him to set the course of my day. God had already shown me the need! As I drove to their home, I talked to the Lord about how to best to help them get the most rest. I asked if I could bring her back to my house, and they said yes. My lesson in dealing with life’s curve balls is obeying the Holy Spirit.

As I rocked her to sleep listening to my Spotify prayer channel, we both rested in the Presence of the Lord. I figured out how to transfer her to the couch…and she slept much longer than her normal morning nap. As we sat together, I realized that part of God’s character is that He sits with us and loves us amid of our challenging times. When we understand the truth of 1 John 4:13 it becomes easier to trust. We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love. Reminding myself of God’s love for each of our family members is always a good start for life’s curve balls.

Another thing I have learned about life’s curve balls is they don’t come alone. They are usually multifaceted and multilevel. In our situation, we also get to walk the journey with their four children. We are helping them through their fears and concerns. It is one thing to trust the Lord with your own health, but another with our children and grandchildren. I know He is teaching us all lessons in his faithfulness. It is part of dealing with life’s curve balls, isn’t it?

We’ve learned you need a team. These bigger balls can’t be handled by themselves. God has provided a wonderful support team with Becca’s parents and her sister. They actually live next door. We They have their own challenges too…so we need good communication. When life throws you curve balls, make sure you have a team. It is best to develop those relationships pre-curve, but sometimes God sends you added experienced team members in the midst. People who have been through what you are going through can be great encouragers!

Life’s curve balls happen to everyone. You are not alone. Life’s curve balls can either make us bitter, or better. We can grow in our compassion or withdraw inside ourselves. Or maybe for a season, as we adjust, a bit of both. But the good news is He understands. He is not caught unaware of our days, our experiences and our challenges. I believe we will move through this challenge stronger than ever. We are celebrating so many areas where God has already answered with a yes. But we still need to rehearse that through praise, thanksgiving and reminding ourselves during the tougher times. If you are struggling mid curve, take the time to examine your wins. Because of His goodness, I know you have them.

This journey will not be easy, but we believe with God’s help, it is doable. We expect to learn much along the way, but also are choosing to live and enjoy, as best as possible, life each day. I know there will probably be more curve balls ahead, but we trust Him even more than ever.

Father, it is not only encouraging that you have recorded the days of our life, but we know that You’ve determined that these things are going to work out for good for everyone concerned. Please help us trust You with every curve ball this life has for us. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

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Faith and Building

May 16, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

Therefore, encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 NLT.

Over the past five months, workers have been re-building and restoring a mess in my back room. It has taken much longer than any of us wanted because of water damage that went undetected for years. This past week they finished their portion. We polished and sealed the concrete to prevent any potential future issues. It feels so good to get to this point.

However, we still aren’t finished. My contractor told me in the beginning that he doesn’t do finishing work…like taping and mudding. He said, “I am just not good at it!”. So as grateful as I am that we have an enclosed room, with insulation, drywall and windows…I still can’t set up the room for use. It is not finished. The future use is closer than before, but it isn’t complete.

In the back of my mind, I always knew we would get it done, but it has taken so much longer than expected because of the greater damage that had been done, I had to work on keeping myself encouraged. My contractor had other jobs to complete, but did his best to accommodate mine. It just has taken time. It happens with people as well.

We might expect our children to understand life’s basics before they actually do. I remember when my firstborn was almost two, and I was expecting her to know she was to sit still and be quiet during church services. I said, “you know you are supposed to be quiet”. The Holy Spirit stopped me quickly, and said “when do you think she learned that?”. I realized I had never taken the time to teach her! It was a sudden realization that she wasn’t born with my knowledge and insight. Someone (me), had to teach her. God wants to teach us new things as He builds in us His character and wisdom, but we must be teachable and submit to Him as our teacher if we want the ultimate benefit and results.

As I watched the rebuilding process of my room, I realized there were definite steps he had to take to get to the final result I wanted and was paying for! Who knew we needed to put in French drains–what did that have to do with my room? I learned that the outside drainage of my home affects the inside. I had to trust his knowledge of building and codes were up to date and he knew what he was doing. Are you trusting God’s building work in your life? Is He working in an area of your life you thought should already be finished? If you are upset about it, it probably means you are quite perfected in that area, right?

My room isn’t done. I could decide to “make do” with it the way it is, but ultimately, no amount of decorating would cover an unfinished room. It is the same with God’s work in us. He, the master builder, is the one who decides when His work is finished in us. I may think I have enough fruit of the Spirit to get by and He begins to dig about, prune and fertilize areas I think are ok. Do I work with Him? Or do I get frustrated and try to avoid His digging?

A few years ago, my grandson took a class in shed building through our Home Connections Homeschooling program. This included learning how to tape and mud drywall joints. He gets to practice his skills on my room. I am not expecting a professional job, but I do expect him to do a decent one. These are skills that will help him later in life, and minimally will create memories for both of us.

We are all under construction. Do not grow weary in your construction or in the construction of others around you. Keep on encouraging each other and building one another up. You won’t regret it. A few years ago I prayed for a young man whose art work I saw in a school hallway. I prayed for his future and God’s will and direction. This is the young man who worked in my room. I had asked many others, but this was the one who said “yes”. Only our God knew my need and his.

Be encouraged, my friends, no matter what is going on in your life. Our God sees, hears, and is working good things for your present and your future. It is not easy, nor was it promised to be so, but it is going to be good.

Father, I trust you to finish the good work you have begun in all our lives. Help us work with you, not against what you are trying to do. We trust you. Make us into your image, not our own thoughts of what we think that should be. In Jesus‘ name, amen.