Faith and Stress

October 3, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, but a good word makes it glad. Proverbs 12:25 NKJV

Everywhere we look we can find stress producers. Finances, relationships, politics, health issues can definitely generate stress in our lives. We know it is not “healthy” to live with chronic stress because God did not intend us to live that way. Lately, as I have been praying for myself and others about anxiety, I realize more of Satan’s devious plan is at work.

First, his goal is to get our eyes off the Lord and onto ourselves. When we “feel” anxious, our natural response is to turn inward. We become self focused rather than others or God focused. When that happens, our faith level drops and there is often a struggle to get out of our heads and into His thoughts. Then Satan employs his next level of strategy, hopelessness.

Hopelessness can begin subtly. Remember, Satan is here to steal, kill, and destroy. So he tries to steal your hope, making you feel smaller than you are. Could you tell me why you should even pray, because….(fill in your own blanks). Some of those blanks may get filled in with you not being worthy enough for God to answer, you are a disappointment to God, or even you don’t have enough faith to believe for that prayer to be answered. So he subtly steers us away from even beginning to pray! Have you ever had Hebrews 11:6 thrown back at you when you tried to pray? But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek him. Condemning thoughts show up, just about the time you start to pray: “you don’t really believe he is going to answer your prayer because you haven’t been diligently seeking him, have you???” His goal is to deter you from coming to the Lord you love. This is condemnation, my friends, not something our God does. A condemned man has no hope, but that is not us! Our sins have been forgiven and we have been set free.

Once your focus is distracted, he moves on to the size of your problem. He works to diminish the power and authority of our God, and magnifies the magnitude of the PROBLEM. As the problem gets bigger, your stress mounts–which again, clouds our vision of our loving Savior. We start to feel even worse and begin to look at how to get away from those stressful feelings.

This is Satan’s really sneaky attack. He suggests your right for relief. So instead of praying to the God who can change things, he tempts you with ways of escape. “Remember that pint of ice cream in the fridge? Go ahead, it’s ok. Or just turn on the TV and binge watch that show you like.” Now, neither of these things are wrong in themselves, but if they interrupt you from praying to peace, then you have been hoodwinked. He stole from you the opportunity to receive God’s true peace.

Satan then attempts to draw us into outright deadlier distractions. Alcohol, drugs and porn are powerful temptations. One glass of wine can turn into two or more, a prescribed anti-anxiety pill dose can be doubled, pornography can be substituted instead of fixing relationship issues. All of these temptations can lead to even more costly consequences. Every addiction began with the first step. When stress and anxiety are running high in our hearts, it is much easier to fall for these “quick fixes” rather than deal with the root issues. What started as a “relief escape” now becomes a trap, pushing the person farther and farther from the Lord and His correct solutions.

My friends, counseling and prescription drugs can be helpful. But the most important way to deal with stress is going to the Lord first, or in the middle…or even if you think it is the end. He always has a way out or a way through. God has given us tools in His Word for us to use in times of anxiety. Don’t forget to use them!

We have so many promises from Him. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16. Don’t let Satan steal your confidence in the Lord to respond to your every need with His mercy and grace. It is always there, no matter if/when we mess up. Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me, for in you my soul takes refuge; in the shadow of your wings I will take refuge, till the storms of destruction pass by. Psalm 57:1. Stay close to Him, learn to hide and take refuge in Him. He is a strong tower we can run to.

By following His teachings, we can avoid many stressors. Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?” Hebrews 13:5-6.

Turn to Him with gratitude and thanksgiving, even before the answer is evident. Rehearse what He has done before. Remind yourself of His faithfulness in the past, which makes Him bigger than the current situation. The Lord is my strength and shield. I trust Him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving. Psalm 28:7. The next time you are feeling stressed, I challenge you to burst out in song! It breaks the hold hopelessness, stress and anxiety have on us. If need be, put on worship or praise music and sing along. My family used to sing this song when we were children. It is still one of our go to songs when things are rough: “My Lord knows the way through the wilderness, all I have to do is follow. Strength for today is mine all the way and all I need for tomorrow, all I have to do is follow, my Lord knows the way through the wilderness, all I have to do is follow.” It is quite simple, but it always brings breakthroughs and hope. Google it, if you don’t know it.

My friends, we don’t have to let the stressors of this life rule and reign in our lives. Our God is the God of Hope. Jesus is the Prince of Peace as we allow Him to rule and reign in our hearts, we can live in that peace. Don’t settle for less, it’s not worth it. Satan really would like to enslave you in his addictions, don’t let him win. We don’t have to let stress run or ruin our lives.

Father, I ask You to open our eyes where we have let stress and anxiety rule and reign in our hearts instead of your peace. Anxiety can have a loud voice, but Your quiet one shuts it up quickly. Open our ears to hear Your wonderful words of life and hope, in Jesus’ Name, amen.

We don't have to let stress run or even ruin our lives. — Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

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Faith and Honest Conversation with God

September 26, 2024 Martha Rodman1 Comment

I cry out to the LORD; I plead for the LORD’s mercy. 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. Wherever I go, my enemies have set traps for me. Psalm 142:1

I have been under the weather for almost a week. It started with a slight sore throat and moved into a massive headache and sinus involvement. Sneezing, coughing and body aches came along. My eyes didn’t seem to be focusing either. Maybe it was my head pain, but I couldn’t think through what to take to feel better.

I went through one of the most frustrating and sense of isolation times in my widowhood. Reading the OTC meds in my cupboard became very frustrating. I was supposed to pick my sister up from the airport shuttle, and knew I couldn’t drive, so with effort I reached out to our other sister and she was able to do it. She also brought me meds and food.

I don’t know what was the most challenging–feeling so awful or the inability to read instructions and there is nobody here to help me do it. It definitely was a time I cried out to the Lord. He sent me the help I needed, but at the time I felt very vulnerable (as well as feverish, chilled and wimpy!). The good news is as I asked for prayer, many reached out and ask how they could help. I am so blessed.

A few days later, as I am still recovering, I had an open and honest conversation with the Lord. I liken it to those conversations you have with your spouse. The “this is the truth” of how I am feeling conversation. It came complete with heart transparency, ugly crying and all the emotions that come with that. It wasn’t pretty, but it was a different level of honesty than I have gone with Him for a while. Oh, I have had plenty of repentance prayers, along with ‘help me, Lord’ etc., but this was deeper than those. It was raw and real. My prayer began “O, Lord, I am a lousy daughter…and moved on from there.” The funny thing is He didn’t use words to re-align my thinking, He used His Presence. After my honest conversation (it went quite deeper), I sat there in wonder.

An amazing sense of peace, safety and love descended. It was incredible. My spirit and soul felt refreshed and clean; like David must have felt when he prayed in Psalm 51:10. Create in me a clean heart, O God and renew a right spirit within me. I realized I had not taken the time to share these thoughts with Him. Most of my prayers (conversation) have been supplication and intercession on behalf of others. They included thanksgiving and gratitude for answers, but not the sharing of what was really going on in my heart with His heart. We need many prayers, my friends.

Like any relationship, we need to communicate. He communicated to me that day through my daily Bible reading. I found hope, encouragement and needed thought adjustments! My reading actually helped precipitate our conversation.

As I write this, my thoughts are turned to the state of Florida and Hurricane Helene. My heart is interceding for all the people as they prepare for a Category 4 storm. I’m asking for His intervention and trusting He has a plan in place to show off His loving care. Ezra 9 declares the sin that brought consequences upon the Israelites. I am interceding on behalf of our nation for repentance and mercy. These are also honest conversations we can have with our Savior, trusting Him and His purpose in and through our lives.

Take the time, my friends, to talk with Him. There is freedom to receive as we interact on a deep personal level. It is a good thing that we will pass on that freedom to others!

Father, I thank you for your gracious listening to my heart cry. I thank you for your mercy on my soul, and on all your children. Please show us how to have honest, faith-filled conversations with you, that avail much. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

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Faith and Endurance

September 12, 2024 Martha Rodman2 Comments

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. Hebrews 12:1 NLT.

For the past several weeks, the pastors at Life Church have been focusing on the above scripture. Some thoughts have surfaced as I have meditated on this life-changing verse.

We are not alone. We are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses. They are with us. Heaven is full of people who know we can run our race. They are urging us on—they did it, and so can we. In 2014, my son-in-law, Timothy Haslet, and his twin brother, David, ran the Boston Marathon for his sister, one of the bombing victims. My daughter, their children and myself all traveled to Boston to cheer them on. Because of the length of the race and the young ages of their children, we watched from our rooms, getting updates along the way. Even though they couldn’t hear us from the roadside, they knew we were there. We prayed, encouraged and celebrated their finish. For various reasons, Tim wasn’t as prepared as he should have been and needed some health support after. It cost him something to run, but they ran this race out of love and support for their sister Adrienne. My friends, when cheer others on, it is good for us as well.,

2. The Stripping Part. Let us strip off every weight that slow us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. What comes to mind when you think about excess baggage? I think about mental weights. Discouragement (both in myself and others), disappointments in ourselves and others, false assumptions (it’s too hard, I’ll never make it) and false or wrong expectations. These are some of the mind weights that have either slowed me down, or try to cause me to veer off track. I have to deal with them, or else I can’t run my race as God intends…and neither can you.

After my daughter-in-law’s cancer diagnosis in May, my life got even busier. I was already running tired, enough, so I actually had gone to my doctor to see if there was a problem. Part of my mind said, “you can’t do this”, the other part said, “you have no choice”. After a long talk with the Lord, asking for His strength and help, we began helping with the chemo journey by helping with childcare. I was determined to serve them cheerfully, not begrudgingly. I marvel at how much stronger I feel today than I did back in June. Instead of it wearing me down and out, I have more stamina! It wasn’t always easy, but we made it. The memories we made were so worth it. I had to strip off the thought that I couldn’t do it and replace it with “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”. As I did, joy came, which of course strengthened me!

Another thing I had to strip off was the “what ifs”. What if I can’t do it? What if one of my grandchildren gets hurt etc… I had to strip those thoughts off as well. I decided, as I trusted God and His strength, I could/would also trust Him to keep everyone safe and give me ideas to keep them happy and engaged. It worked! Getting rid of bad thoughts leaves room for God’s creativity and faith to flow. It is amazing how helpful the Holy Spirit is when we allow Him to be!

Is there an area that you need to change your perspective? The word “strip” means to “leave bare of all accessories or fittings”. There is a definite, deliberate action required and implied in the meaning. What do you need to “strip” from your life? Take action, today.

3. The Holy Spirit’s job is to convict us of sin. This is one area we usually run away from, or try to cover up. When we strip off the weights, what is left will be revealed. The sins of pride, envy, jealousy or gossip show up. Unbelief, fear or immaturity are uncovered, and need to be dealt with. He does this because He loves us, not to shame or discredit us. There is so much freedom that comes when we repent and start afresh.

4. Then we must run…. with endurance. This means we hold our ground when we battle headwinds. The enemy of our soul will fight against our running. He does not want us to run, much less win. Making sure once we strip off the weights, we add on His armor. This armor, instead of weighing us down, will actually cause us to run with more purpose and win. It will help us bear up against any adversity we encounter.

5. Our associate pastor, Josh Hubbard, shared about “drafting” that running or cycling racers have learned about. Drafting, or “slipstreaming” is a technique that runners can use to save energy by running directly behind the lead runner. As I listened to his message, I thought about Jesus being our front runner. When we stay close to Him, we save energy. He knows the speed we need to run and has already mapped out our race. Besides Him, we follow those that are following Him and we can actually have the energy to run with endurance. Running alone is tiring, boring and leaves you more susceptible to wanting to quit. My dear friends, run with Jesus and His people. They will help you cross your finish line, and you can help them. Christians who burn out or quit their race often choose to “do it alone”. It is not the way God intended us to run. Find your team.

6. Keep your eye on the prize. I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. Philippians 3:14. NLT. Press on is another action word. It implies endurance, but also intention. It is a decision we must make. My brother-in-law has run many races. In order for him to run in a particular race, he decides and then registers, pays any fee involved and then shows up on race day at the appointed time and runs. If we want to run our race, we must also register by surrendering to Him. The cost is obedience to His will. It can seem high, but it is always worth it, if we keep our eye on the prize. Mike, my brother-in-law, has a wall full of awards and ribbons. Each representing the hard work he put in for training. There are some races that require certain qualifications, like the Boston Marathon. His number, his certificate and his ribbon have a special place on his wall, but compared to the prize we are running for, it is worth far less.

6. The Holy Spirit and God’s Word are both our trainer and our coach. Listen and apply their instruction and you will win your race as well. Please do not get discouraged. Keep running your race. Drink fully of His living water. Come to me, all you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28. Please remember in this race, we have quiet resting places and opportunities to get replenished. If you are growing discouraged, take time to talk with Him. Share your concerns and then take HIS yoke upon you. Let HIM teach you, because HE is humble and gently at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For HIS yoke is easy to bear, and the burden HE gives you is light. (I capitalized the changes I made in substituting His for the scriptural I/my).

My friends, I know I have not always run with my eye on the prize, or with the thought of winning. I look back and see my running was more like a slug, crawling along on my belly. But, by God’s grace, He has always helped me come back from distractions and get rid of any added weights because I asked for His help. Don’t let our enemy rob you of the joy of running in this race. There is nothing like being a part of His team. He will show you how to fit your “life” into His race. You have the time and ability to run the race He has laid out for you, and do it well.

Father, please help us keep our eyes fixed on You and the prize set before us. Forgive us for trying to run with extra weights and even the sin that so easily trips us up. I thank you for teaching us how to run our particular race, in Jesus’ Name, amen.

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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.