Faith and Rejoicing

December 19, 2024 Martha Rodman2 Comments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Faith and Accomplishments

December 5, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Faith and Giving God Time

November 21, 2024 Martha Rodman1 Comment

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11. ESV.

I am borrowing my focus today from Pastor Louie Giglio’s teaching on the book of Joshua. Our Life Group finished this study and his last point really affected me. The above scripture is God’s promise to work His good for us. The final thoughts in the Joshua teaching focused on the burying of Joseph’s bones. From his request, to his final burial spot, took many,many years. Joseph was embalmed in Egypt before the Exodus. The Israelite’s spent 40 years in the wilderness. Then they fought to take the land before they found a place to bury Joseph. Joseph trusted God’s promise and the Israelites to fulfill their promise to him. It took time. Pastor Giglio’s encouragement that affected me so much was a simple statement: Give God Time.

Give God time to answer your prayers. Do not judge too quickly that His seeming quiet means He is not moving. Give God Time to work the change you’ve asked Him to do in yourself and others.

This is a simple message and reminder. God sees you and your situation. He is working behind the scenes, out of your sight; but He is working. How do we know? Because He is a promise keeper.

The story of the importunate judge is not my favorite. But there are some wonderful insights we can learn from it, if we keep reading. And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart. 2 He said, “In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God nor respected man. 3 And there was a widow in that city who kept coming to him and saying, ‘Give me justice against my adversary.’ 4 For a while he refused, but afterward he said to himself, ‘Though I neither fear God nor respect man, 5 yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will give her justice, so that she will not beat me down by her continual coming. Luke 18:1-5. During this period in time, women were prohibited from going to court. Their husband or other male family member would usually bribe the judge to hear their case. This widow was alone. She had no male relative. She had no money to bribe the court. But she used what she had: her voice. She would show up and shout into the tent (which was the courtroom of the day) making herself a nuisance. The heartless judge finally heard her case, simply to get rid of her. I’m always relieved to read that part. Whew, justice was finally done.

When we keep reading: 6 And the Lord said, “Hear what the unrighteous judge says. 7 And will not God give justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long over them? 8 I tell you, he will give justice to them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” We discover we have an elder brother who loves and makes intercession for us. We are not alone when we face our mountains. It is up to us to stir our faith. We must stand strong. We must give God the time to work on our behalf, without fear, without doubt. No matter how long it takes.

When we face adversity, it is often tempting to run and hide. Our God wants us to stand tall with courage, declare His Word in the matter. Not our feelings, not our fears, but His faith. When my husband was in the hospital after his massive stroke, the doctors wanted me to just let him die. We kept praying for healing and declaring God’s victory. They kept telling me how severe his situation was. They even refused to give him a feeding tube because they claimed it wasn’t “ethical”. My response was, I wouldn’t let my dog die of starvation, much less my husband. It was very difficult to defy their “expertise”. We prevailed and brought him home, where he lived two and half more years. Was it difficult? Yes. Was it worth it? Oh, yes.

I think I am still giving God time. I want to see the fullness of His plan and purpose through that season and my widowhood. So many good things have happened. I get to watch God change lives through our Life Group and the Senior Life Ministry I get to direct. Though my heart still aches for my husband and our marriage, I am giving God more time to work all things together for His good. I am learning the truth of 2 Corinthians 12:15, And I will very gladly spend and be spent for your souls. We are not our own, my friends. We have been bought with a price for a purpose. Some of the spending our God uses us for may not be comfortable. It may also not be logical to our earthly minds. Just as our cash is ours to spend as we choose, we are His to spend as He chooses. We may not discover the fullness of His purchase till heaven, and we have to be ok with that.

I believe God uses everything we go through in this life, if we let Him. It’s our choice to trust Him or not. A miscarriage, disabling injury, or financial catastrophe are emotionally devastating. The good news, after giving God time they can actually be the beginning of some amazing opportunities. Keep on trusting Him, my friends. I have some friends facing some difficult challenges and it is hard to watch. United together in prayer and faith, we will see God’s purpose, and that is always good!

Father, I pray with my friends who are struggling with your time table. I ask you encourage them today, with your presence and comfort. I thank you for teaching us how to give you time to work for us, in us and through us. You are more than able to do abundantly above all we can think or ask, so we choose to trust you today. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

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Faith and Rest

November 14, 2024 Martha Rodman2 Comments

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:29-30. ESV.

Our 17-month-old granddaughter is hesitant to learn to walk. The other day I faced her toward her mother and said “go to mommy”. Her mom said, “Come, Sofia”. Sofia, excited to go to Mom, took off and made it a few feet to her. It was a joy to watch her take these steps. She will walk soon. One of these days, I am sure, she will not respond to “come”. Instead, she will head out in her own direction! Her mom’s arms were open, ready to receive her amazing daughter. Our amazing Heavenly Father is doing the same! His arms are open and ready to receive us. All we have to do is remember his invitation to “come”.

Jesus is not just inviting us to come to Him, but He has a rest to give us! Life seems to get more complicated and complex. I would like to remind us today. We have an amazing sanctuary waiting for us if we just respond to His invitation. What do we find as we come? His promise of rest.

Oh, the promises about rest the Word holds for us! Exodus 33:12-14, we find a conversation Moses had with the Lord. Moses said to the LORD, “See, you say to me, ‘Bring up this people,’ but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. Yet you have said, ‘I know you by name, and you have also found favor in my sight.’ 13 Now therefore, if I have found favor in your sight, please show me now your ways, that I may know you in order to find favor in your sight. Consider too that this nation is your people.” 14 And he said, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest. It was God’s intention all along to show His people His ways and His thoughts…and along with this intent, comes rest. There is a rest that comes when we comprehend we don’t have to do life on our own. As we learn about Him a greater peace and rest comes into our hearts and souls. Are you a learner? Have you set yourself to keep learning about Him through His Word? The more I read and study, I realize how much I thought I knew. Yet, there is so much more to know! Then comes the challenge of the application of the new learning in my life. What is amazing is, He teaches us how to do that too!

When I was a child, I fought napping and resting. I think my mom really enjoyed the break from us! I got in so much trouble for “faking it”. When I equated “rest” to doing nothing or sleeping when I was younger–I hated it. As an older person, I’ve learned to enjoy body resting times. However, I’ve discovered God’s intention of “rest” is so much more than just body rest. He wants us to take a break for our mind and soul as well. It is so difficult to stop a racing mind, so that is why He gives us instructions. Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2. As we decide to look to Him, we can’t help but re-focus on what He went through for us. When we do this, our trial, though as fiery as it seems, is nothing compared to His suffering.

This is what the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One of Israel says: Only in returning to be and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength. Isaiah 30:15. NLT. (The rest of this verse ends in, but you would not.) It is our choice whether we return to Him during times of trouble, or keep to our own thoughts. You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, and all whose thoughts are fixed on you. Isaiah 26: 3. NLT.

The rest that God calls us to is an active rest. As we actively focus our minds and hearts on seeking Him and His ways, hope comes. Don’t be afraid of His yoke. Don’t be afraid of His burden. His yoke is so much easier to bear than the yoke of our own sorrow, fears, and trouble. His burden is so much lighter than the cares of this world. Trying to manage our family, finances and other challenges on our own is so hard. Laying down pride, control and independent thinking might be difficult, but not as hard as doing life without His help! This is where His rest begins makes a difference in our attitudes, thus our lives. Hebrews 4:8-11, For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken of another day later on. 9 So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, 10 for whoever has entered God’s rest has also rested from his works as God did from his.
11 Let us therefore strive to enter that rest, so that no one may fall by the same sort of disobedience. It’s worth it, my friends. His rest is amazing.

Father, how blessed we are to have Your invitation to “come”. You are such an amazing Father. No matter how hard our days are, You want us to walk in peace and rest. Teach us how, dear Savior. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

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Faith and Dealing With Oppression

November 7, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. Ephesians 6:10-11. NLT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Faith and Your Calling

October 17, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Phillipi, he asked his disciples, “who do people say that the Son of Man is? “Well, they replied, “some say John the Baptist, some say Elijah, and others say Jeremiah, or one of the prophets.” Matthew 16:13. NLT.

But then He got more personal. Then he asked them, “But who do you say that I am? This is such an important question. If we are to walk in the power and authority of the Lord, we must have settled in our hearts who we believe He is. Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the Living God”. How powerful is that statement? You are the Messiah (the anointed one) and the Son of the Living (not dead) God! What good news! What a privilege to know the Living God!

When we clarify God’s identity to us, then we will have a better grip on who we are. I found an old journal where I listed in my journal who I am/was. I wrote it on September 4, 2004. Here is what I wrote

I am your daughter, purchased by Your blood; adopted into Your family; called to walk with You to influence others for Your kingdom. By encouragement, by loving words of grace, by living much an authentic life as possible, By obedience to Your call in Your Word and by Your Holy Spirit. Please help me to grow in this process, because I too often forget who I am.

Reading this entry, I realize this list still embodies my purpose and calling. God keeps answering this prayer when I get distracted and off track. Because He is the Living God, He meets us where we are. Obviously, this list did not include specific goals or steps to fulfill them, it just includes my heartfelt desires. With humility and gratitude, I see where He has helped me fulfill them. Have you ever taken the time to discover your call? His purpose for your life? It makes such a difference, especially when you navigate the twists, turns and decisions that must be made in this life.

I am so amazingly grateful to Him for the revelation of the call and purpose in my life. I had to first understand who He was who called me, then I could understand my purpose in the calling. It is humbling and often overwhelming to sit in His Presence letting ,Him touch and restore my soul. We find Jesus’ response to Peter. Jesus replied, “You are blessed Simon, son of John, because my Father in heaven has revealed this to you. You did not learn this from any human being. There are things the Holy Spirit wishes to reveal to each of us. He uses various means (like His Word, His still small voice, and others) to communicate these personal thoughts to us. The important thing is our ears and hearts are open to them. Fear or insecurity will shut down our faith, and without faith, we can’t hear Him.

Through a series of events, I found myself in Kodiak, Alaska, after college graduation. It was hard, lonely and wonderful at the same time. I spent much of the time seeking Him. The day I flew back to the Lower 48, I opened my Bible to Isiah 40:9 O Zion, You who bring good tidings, Get up into the high mountain; O Jerusalem, You who bring good tidings, Lift up your voice with strength, Life it up, be not afraid; say to the cities of Judah, “Behold your God.” I read that verse, slammed my Bible shut and said, “That’s not me, I can’t do that”. After I landed, my friend took me to meet a lady who, like the woman at the well, “told me all I had ever done”. Actually, she prophesied this verse to me! This was the first time I thought about God’s specific call and purpose in my life. My life pivtoed and I was never the same again. (I also met Darryl that day!) I have used my teaching degree, but not in the way I thought I would!

When we find His purpose and our calling, things settle in place. Hard things are still hard, but there is a good reason to go through them. Trusting in God’s goodness and character enabled me to get through my husband’s stroke and subsequent passing. The calling He revealed to me, even before our marriage, is still in place today. Those prayers I wrote in 2004, He is still answering. He hopes to do the same for you.

If you already know His purpose and calling in your life, are you walking in it? God prepared each of us, like Esther, for this time in history. It is important we each walk it out to the fullest. Do not let Satan rob you of the joy of fulfilling that purpose, even when it is hard. Remember, He is the Living God who sees you, hears you, and desires to walk with you.

Father, thank you for the privilege of being Your children. Thank you, like Simon Peter, You long to reveal your purpose and plan for each of us. Remind us, when we lose sight of that calling and purpose. Stir up the gifts you have given to Your children. Let us not take them for granted. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

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Faith and Authority

October 10, 2024 Martha Rodman1 Comment

And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:18.

Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you. Luke 10:19.

And he appointed twelve (whom he also named apostles) so that they might be with him and he might send them out to preach 15 and have authority to cast out demons. Mark 3, :14-15. Jesus gave these 12 men authority. The Greek word used here is: exousia. Exousia means authority or the right to act. It also infers the privilege to act. Combined with the word dunamis (might) enables us to follow through with everything the Holy Spirit instructs us to do. Jesus authorized and equipped these disciples with the power needed to go to teach, preach, and bring deliverance to those they met. We have been given this same authority. The question is, do we walk in it?

I pondered what would it look like if we, as believers live confident in this power and authority. Hurricane Helene raised havoc in Florida two weeks ago. I watched a video where this couple walked the perimeter of their property, declaring God’s protection around their land. Trees fell all along their boundary, but none fell on their property. Two of my friends have family right in the path of Hurricane Milton. Prayers were prayed for protection for them, and even though one had a tree fall on a car–there was no damage to that car–no scratch or even a dent! Her mom said, “It was like God gently laid the tree down”. I also know, some did not fare as well. Lives were lost, property damaged and that makes me sad. What happens if our own soul forgets the authority we have been given and we don’t pray? We don’t engage that authority? I think it is another tactic of our enemy to keep us functioning less than we have been given.

My friends, I want to remind all of us: we need to not only know we have been given authority, we need to be bold and use it. Many of my friends have been getting hit hard with life’s challenges, that they admitted it was even hard to pray because they didn’t even know where to begin. I have been there. What a sneaky enemy we have! He wants to undermine our authority because he is afraid of what would happen if we walked daily with our God given authority. I want to remind all of us, we have been given this power, the question is are we going to walk in it?

The hurricane victory stories are encouraging to hear. Every victory builds our faith. When my husband suffered his debilitating stroke, we prayed for healing. They told me he is blind, deaf and will never come out of this. We kept praying. I admit, I was tempted to listen to the doctors. But, I also kept hearing a sermon he preached: “most people want to see a miracle, but they don’t want to need one, to see one”. He lived his life to show forth God’s glory. So, with the help of our faith-filled children and God’s family, we kept trusting and believing. He eventually learned to walk again, eat again and know us. We exercised the exousia and dunamis power we received from the Lord, and saw miraculous results. I am using those stories to fight for others in their cancer journeys, today.

I admit there are days when the cares of this world overwhelms and overshadows the fact I have this authority. When this happens, I definitely live beneath the privilege I have as a believer, and in reality, I think like a victim. My “feels” start trying to lead, rather than my faith. When my soul starts to complain “it’s not fair”, or “why, Lord?”, fear grows and my faith shrinks. But, when I remember I have been given authority things begin to change. Jesus told us in Luke 10:19 Look, I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy, and you can walk among snakes and scorpions and crush them. Nothing will injure them. (We won’t go into stupid foolish actions). The question is, do I believe God has really given us power over our enemy? Or am I a victim of his actions?

My friends, I want to encourage all of us to walk in our authority. Do not let the bigness of the situation limit your prayers. Remind yourself of the miracles Jesus performed. Many of them came from his heart of compassion. If you find your faith small, ask Him to enlarge it. Take the time to study His Word and learn about this authority we have been given. Let His love lead you. James 4:2, reminds us “we have not because we ask not”. Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full. Let’s begin to ask largely in His name.

Sunday, my friend who is a middle school counselor, asked me to pray a big prayer. She told me that from the month of October to the middle of January , suicide among teenagers takes a big leap in numbers, please pray. I then talked with our Youth Pastor, asking what we, as Senior Life ministry, could pray for them. I found out some of our youth group members had confided in them that they were thinking of taking their own lives. We must pray as if we believe in the prayer we are praying. I believe lives are being saved because of these on-going prayers. Our nation needs help and that must come from people who walk in God’s authority. Do not let the enemy keep you smaller than you are. Stand up in God’s love, in His mercy, and declare His Word over your circumstance. If you don’t know His will in your situation, ask Him to show you. Take time to build your faith in that area and pray. Get together with other believers. Some things need the “two or three touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. Matthew 18:19.

Father, I thank you for helping us understand how to use the authority you have entrusted us with. Forgive us for living underneath life’s circumstances instead above it. Thank you for the reminder we are not victims, but victors no matter our situation. We choose to partner with you, dear heavenly Father. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

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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 “Spark”

September 19, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

So the LORD sparked the enthusiasm of Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and the enthusiasm of Jeshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest, and the enthusiasm of the whole remnant of God’s people. They began to work on the house of their God, the LORD of Heaven’s Armies, 15 on September 21 of the second year of King Darius’s reign. Haggai 1:14 NLT

Have you ever had your enthusiasm “sparked”? I’ve talked with a few people lately and life’s challenges have had them feeling a little blah at the best and even depressed at their situations at the worst. One of Satan’s tactics is to steal our hope and our joy. They may need a “spark” of hope to carry on.

Haggai (whose name means “festive”) was called by the Lord to encourage God’s people during their return to Israel after their Babylon exile. It was a difficult, but exciting time. Haggai was specifically called to encourage the leader Zerubbabel (the governor of Judah) and his religious counterpart–Jeshua, the high priest. As these two leaders listened to the words spoken by Haggai their hearts were sparked to begin to rebuild the temple of the Lord.

The Hebrew word ‘ur means to rouse, awaken, stir up, excite, to incite, to arouse to action, to open the eyes. Some of God’s people are slumbering. Life’s circumstances have overwhelmed some and others are at a standstill. God directed faith-filled words can spark action. They can wake up the slumbers and encourage the hopeless. What kind of words do you need today to spark you into action? Encouragement, comfort or exhortation? God desires to give you what you need. Go to Him first, then to others as He directs. Remember the verse: Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church? James 5:14. Maturing believers must take responsibility for their spiritual health.

The life group I lead unexpectedly lost a dear member about two weeks ago. It is one of life’s mysteries we still can’t quite get our minds around. She was only 46 and had a lot of life left to lead. Unexpectedly, another Life Group of ladies asked if they could join our group last night to love on us, pray for us and bring dessert! It was the most amazing time. It sparked joy and blessing–even as we prayed together. Spontaneous laughter, worship and peace filled the room. It is often difficult during a time of mourning to know what to do. This unique and divinely inspired example of love is exactly what our group needed.

I have found it so true that there is something that happens when we share in community together. Zerubbabel and Jeshua teamed up together to accomplish what God called them to do–lead the people to rebuild the temple. The people were focusing on their own needs, which is understandable. They had been gone for 70 years and had to rebuild their own lives. But God brought them back for a reason. These leaders needed Haggai to remind them of their own calling and purpose. Often we need each to do that for each other. People always need the gift of encouragement!

2 Timothy 1: 6,Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. Have you ever tried to light a candle with one of those small igniters and have them click, click, click and finally you realize you have used up the fuel? It is very frustrating. God wants us to stay “fueled” up by His Spirit, so He can use us to spark others. If we are waiting for others to “spark” us, you may miss being the light He needs you to be. Thinking you don’t need others is also faulty thinking. We can do more together. Burn longer together. Be a brighter light together.

Many translations use the word “stirred” in place of the New Living Translation sparked. So if you are more comfortable with the word “stirred”, may I ask what stirs your heart? Music? Testimonies? Fellowship? Spending time in prayer, listening for His voice, His comfort and His instruction are ways to stir up not only your gifts, but be the spark for others. It took perseverance for them to rebuild the temple. It didn’t look like the old one. Older Jews, who had witnessed the old temple were grieving. The younger ones were tempted to live their own lives, not understanding the importance of the re-build. But God continued to speak through His prophets to encourage them in their task. He wants to encourage us to do the same. Do not grow weary in doing well, my friends. Your very faith-life could encourage others right now. He could be use you to spark faith and hope in some hopeless places, so keep on letting your light shine.

Father, I ask that you help us walk brightly with You. Teach us how to stir up the gifts You have given us so they don’t die out and grow dormant. Help us to speak words of hope and faith that will encourage others. You are so trustworthy. Thank you for raising up more Haggai’s in this day and age, that we may hear Your word clearly and be stirred to do Your will, In Jesus’ Name, amen.