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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
I will walk in freedom, for I have devoted myself to your commandments. Psalm 119:45. NLT.
As we celebrate our nation’s freedom this week, it is always good to remember what it cost our founding fathers to form our nation. So many of the signers of the Declaration of Independence suffered for their actions. The British captured five of the signers, and tortured them before they died. Twelve had their homes ransacked and burned. Two lost their sons in the revolutionary army, another had two sons captured. Nine of the 56 fought and died from wounds or hardships of the revolutionary war. (www.michaelwsmith.com) It was personally costly for these brave men, and we are still reaping the benefits of their sacrifice today.
But, unfortunately, most of us don’t even think about that cost. Complaints, criticism and frustrations abound about how things are not right, but rarely do we hear people talking about the freedoms we have. Each of these freedoms came with a high price tag. The freedom of speech, the freedom of assembly and worship, the freedom of the press are all freedoms our founding fathers fought for. Because most of us have not lived in places where these freedoms are not experienced, we don’t comprehend how good we do have it. I think it is often the same with the freedom that was purchased by Christ. We are often forgetful about the actual price it cost Him for our freedom. Then we settle for living less than He intends.
There are so many ways we can get entangled. We move from grace to living under the law. We forget about cultivating the fruit of the Spirit, and settle for the works of the flesh. One way we can lose our freedom is living with unforgiveness. Our Life Group has been watching a video series by Bruce and Toni Hebel, called “Forgiving Forward”. This teaching really brings it home that God’s Word is quite adamant that we need to walk in forgiveness, no matter what. It is not an option. As I have waited on the Lord, it’s been surprising the things the Holy Spirit brings up that I need to take the time to forgive–things in the past that I thought were long buried and done with. But as I partner with Him, I find my heart freer and at an even greater peace. This is a reminder to keep your heart clear as the Holy Spirit leads. Do not fall for the lie or deception that it doesn’t make a difference, because it does. Read Matthew 18: 21-35. Let God’s Word touch your heart.
Jesus poured His life out for us. He endured so much to purchase our freedom, and for that I am so grateful. We can walk with Him with a free heart, and that is priceless. The freedom forgiveness brings to you and your relationships is priceless. Don’t justify it, just do it. Ask Him for His help, He is really good at helping people forgive!
Father, I am so grateful we have your forgiveness. Thank you we can walk in that freedom and help pass that on to others. Our ability to forgive comes from the fact we are already forgiven. Teach us how to forgive from our heart like you have asked us to. We trust you to heal our hurts, and release us into Your freedom, In Jesus Name, amen.
“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.
But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. James 1:22. NLT
There is quite a difference between ignorance and ignoring. Ignorance is the lack of knowledge or information. Ignoring is the refusal to take notice of or acknowledge something, the failing to consider or the choice to disregard something. Before we learn something, we are in ignorance about it. Years ago, when we first moved to Oak Harbor, I was pulled over by a police officer for traveling 30 miles an hour in a 25 mile zone. He said, “You didn’t even slow down when you saw me.” “I said, because I thought the speed limit on this road was 30 miles an hour!”. He was gracious and gave me a warning. I am no longer “ignorant” of the speed limit on that road. If I drive 30 miles an hour, I am ignoring the rules of the road, and breaking the law.
I think we as God’s people are often guilty of ignoring His commandments, than being ignorant of them. I’ve been reading about King Solomon, and we find he did some major ignoring of his own, which cost Israel dearly after he died. He ignored God’s ruling about marrying foreign wives. Even though he asked for wisdom and understanding to lead the nation, he faltered in this one area. Those women he married caused him to build actual shrines to their gods. On the Mount of Olives, east of Jerusalem, he even built a pagan shrine for Chemosh, the detestable god of Moab, and another for Molech, the detestable god of the Ammonites. Solomon built such shrines for all his foreign wives to use for burning incense and sacrificing to their gods. 1 Kings 11: 7-8. This is a man who built the Temple to the Lord! I don’t know how he justified these builds, (maybe it was for peace in his household), but the consequences for Israel were severe.
The Lord was very angry with Solomon, for his heart had turned away from the Lord, the God of Israel, who had appeared to him twice. He had warned Solomon specifically about worshiping other gods, but Solomon did not listen to the Lord’s commands. 1 Kings 11: 9-10. The passage goes on with God telling Solomon that he is going to tear the kingdom away from him, and give it to one of his servants, which after his death happens.
As much as I want to judge Solomon for his actions. I can’t. I realize, at times, we all pick and choose which scriptures we apply and which ones we think we can conveniently ignore. Solomon lost sight of his relationship with the Lord, and so it became easy for him to pick and choose his obedience. Isn’t that the same with us? When we go through the motions of our “religion” it becomes easier to justify the lack of Bible reading, church attendance, tithing, loving others or forgiving. 2 Timothy 2:15states, do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. This scripture helps motivate me to stay in the Word, and do my best to apply it.
Revelation 2 and 3 include specific encouragement and specific corrections to seven different churches. Most of these “churches” which are actually the people in them, were criticized for ignoring some of the basic truths they were taught. Reading through them always encourages me to stand taller in the things I’ve already learned, which is good. But the one that touches my heart the most is the church at Ephesus. They did so many good things, but they lost their first love. Solomon lost his first love, which is why he actually lost the kingdom. My friends, let us persevere in listening to the Holy Spirit and asking Him if we have justified “ignoring” His Word in any area of our lives. The price is higher than we can imagine. Our next generation is looking to us. If we compromise and justify ignoring parts of scripture, they will too. I am grateful for God’s grace and mercy. He desires to help us listen and obey. James 1:22-25. But don’t just listen to God’s word. Y0u must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in the mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it.
Father, I thank you for loving us enough to help us walk in Your ways. Help us be faithful to Your Word and not be forgetful doers of it. Help us not get fooled into thinking we can ignore your Words and not have any consequences.Forgive us, In Jesus’ Name, amen.
Hear my prayer, O Lord; listen to my plea! Answer me because you are faithful and righteous. Psalm 143:1
I have begun to love this Psalm. It was written by David during some very trying times. One way we can encourage ourself in the Lord is, like David, by reminding himself of God’s character traits. He reminds God is his faithfulness and righteousness. This past week has been a tough one for me. I found myself emotionally struggling for God’s footing and direction, when I came across Psalm 143. It was like a life-line for me.
Verse three: my enemy has chased me. He has knocked me to the ground and forces me to live in darkness like those in the grave. This is literally what David had to do. He was chased by enemies and was forced to live in very dark caves to preserve his own life. Often, it seems I chase my own self into dark caves, because I get my eyes off God and His light. He promises us that He is the light in our darkness. Our enemy can try to chase us to the dark, or we can choose to run to the light. Self pity, selfishness and woe is me thoughts lead us to dark places, don’t they? Thanksgiving, gratitude and hope lead us to the light.
But David goes even deeper into his complaints. I am losing all hope; I am paralyzed with fear. When we feel all hope is gone and allow fear to step in, we can also feel paralyzed with fear. It is a horrible feeling. When Darryl had his stroke, I immediately turned to the Lord. Riding in the aide car to the hospital, I found myself praying “I am not ready to be a widow, but I throw myself on to the rock of your righteousness”. It was only by God’s grace that I knew where to turn. My heart hurts for those who do not even know they have a God they can turn to. Before Darryl became a Christian and he was in life or death situations, he told me “I never cried out to anyone. It was just me and me alone and it was scary.” We need to share the good news that there is a God and He cares.
David then begins to remind himself of God and His works. I remember days of old. I ponder all your great works and think about what you have done. I lift my hands to you in prayer. I thirst for you as parched land thirsts for rain. Comequickly, Lord, and answer me, for my depressions deepens. Don’t turn away from me, or I will die. Psalm 143: 5-7. When we go through life’s challenges (or curve balls, like last weeks post), we need to stop and be honest with the Lord. As I read this Psalm last Friday, I felt like David. I needed Him to come and show me what to do. As I shared this scripture with someone, they asked, are you depressed? I could honestly answer the situation was depressing, but no, I am not depressed. But just reading David’s honest sharing with the Lord, helped me lift my load.
I began to gain even more hope as I read on. Let me hear of your unfailing love each morning, for I am trusting you. Show me where to walk, for I give myself to you. Psalm 143:8. Oh my friends, He longs to show us where and how to walk through our difficulties. Even when He seems silent, His grace is there helping us as we give ourselves to Him.
So David is going to the Light. He continues on by verse 10Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. May your gracious Spirit lead me forward on a firm footing. For the glory of your name, O Lord, preserve my life, because of your faithfulness bring me out of this distress. In your unfailing love, silence all my enemies and destroy all my foes, for I am your servant. Psalm 143: 10-12. NLT. This is quite a different ending from David’s beginning isn’t it?
David, once again, shows us how to go through hard things. We can learn to look for the light, remembering every testimony He has already given us. Tests and trials are God’s way of enhancing our relationship with Him. David shared his feelings, but he didn’t let them hinder him from moving on. Our enemy would love to shrink our God to his size and his ways. But His ways are not only higher than our ways, they always lead us to freedom and more grace. Have you prayed about your trial, or just complained about it?? Only when we take the time to pray about things, do they really change. Usually our heart changes first, then our circumstances. We can always trust His grace to bring us through everyone. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Hebrews 4:16.
Father, I thank you for helping us in our time of need by your abundant grace. I ask you to remind us to ask for your help, no matter what we face. It is Your grace that shows up when we feel alone, depressed and paralyzed with fear. David did not stay in fear or depressed, but overcame by God’s grace, and so can we. In Jesus Name, amen.
Faith Encounters 