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 Grief

October 31, 2024 Martha Rodman1 Comment

(I started this post last week, but came down with a bug, so couldn’t finish it. It’s given me more time to ponder some things about grief),

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Matthew 5:4 ESV.

Putting faith and grief together is often a challenge. Often, we only think of grief as something that happens when someone dies. But there are a variety of life’s experiences that can trigger grief. Even in scripture, we discovered a myriad of circumstances that caused God’s people (and even God himself) to mourn. Hannah grieved for what she didn’t have (a child). Rebekah and Isaac struggled because their son Esau married a pagan woman. Jesus wept over the hard heartedness of the synagogue leaders. This was when He went there to heal the man with the withered hand. When a family, friend, or leader passes, grief comes into our lives. Grief doesn’t come alone, but it arrives with it’s own individualized emotions and thoughts.

I recently lost another friend. I hesitate to use the word “lost” because I know where she is. I know she is in a better place, her ultimate home. But like anything “lost”, there is a hole. It takes faith to walk through grief. It isn’t easy and it isn’t for the faint of heart. The closer the friend or family member, the bigger the hole and the more grace and faith it takes to fill it.

The good news is found in this scripture: Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Matthew 5:4 ESV. It takes faith to trust that blessing can come from mourning. As we keep trusting and walking through the grief, we discover those blessings. David wrote, even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil. For you are with me. Psalm 23: 4. ESV.

This is so difficult. When someone leaves our life permanently, as in death, it does not feel like a shadow. It feels very real, very solid and very hard. The realities of doing life without your personal someone is sooo hard to adjust to. But amazingly, life goes on and we find our footing. The Comforter comes, and with one step at a time, we trust Him. We start to walk through that valley and out into the sunshine. Walking through the valley of the shadow of death changes us. If we walk in faith, it changes us for the better.

I am not a grief expert, but one thing I have learned is that grief is personal. Whether it is caused by death, divorce, or diagnosis, it hurts. It is painful and it is life-changing. We can become bitter, walled off, and hard. Alternatively, we can allow it to soften us and help us become better. It usually is accompanied by some form of regret. The shoulda, coulda, woulda thoughts that, if not kept in check, can morph into even greater pain. Every grief point comes with its own story. Unpacking those stories with family or friends can be very helpful. It is also helpful to share them with the Lord. Our precious Holy Spirit has helped me reset my own emotions and thoughts more times that I can count. There is no judgment from Him, just help and hope. The personal side of our story can make us feel misunderstood or isolated. When we remember that others also have their grief stories, it breaks the feelings of isolation. As we share our story, we can feel heard and seen.

Blessed are those that mourn, for they shall be comforted. Mourning is useful. When done with faith (even shaky faith), it causes to lean into and onto our Savior even more. After the first season of mourning, life on the outside usually returns to some kind of “normal”. But for those whose loss is deep, it doesn’t ever go away. We learn to carry it differently, that is all. My mom passed away in 1990. I live in the home she designed and planned. But it is not the physical home that reminds me of her. As I age, I get closer to her age at her death (82). I long to talk with her. I am asking questions that never were answered, and won’t be. This motivates me to ask those questions of those that are still here. To take the time to get to know them while I can. We take our “normal” life here for granted, don’t we? Aunt Susie will always be here, won’t she, then she isn’t.

Please know that those who have lost a child, always feel loss. They cope, not necessarily because they want to–but because they have to. Widows or widowers must do the same. Be patient with them. Feel free to ask about their loved one. They miss them. I have a friend who son died at 19. It happened a “long” time ago. We talked about him a few weeks ago. You could tell his memory was so real to her. It felt as if he was still here on earth. It is hard to comprehend the depth of her loss. The mourning for what was and what would never be, here on earth.

The word grief comes from the Latin word gravare. It means to make heavy. Grief does feel heavy, like a shroud. When things are heavy, we have to move slower and take our time. It gives us time to think and ponder questions we often ignore or shove deep down into our souls. Don’t ignore those questions, but bring them to the Lord. Grief, not only takes faith to walk through, but also courage. Hannah kept seeking God in her childlessness. Jesus continued on His journey. This journey led Him to the cross for the very hardhearted ones that caused Him to weep. When our grief leads us to Him, it is always a good thing. The simple knowledge that He understands brings comfort. Psalm 34:18: The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.

Psalm 147:3, He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.

with him those who have fallen asleep.

Revelation 21:4 He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.

There will come a time when grief shall pass away. We will truly comprehend then what the trying of our faith has meant, and how fleeting this life really is. But until then, my friends, no matter what sort of grief you are experiencing, please know He understands. Let it work good His good will in and through it. Let it soften your hearts towards others and their pain. Jesus bore our pain and our sorrow on the cross, and for that I am so grateful.

Father, grief is hard. You know that, but we are so grateful we do not grieve alone. Please send Your Comforter to those who are struggling with grief right now. Remind them of You loving care. Help us to carry each others burdens, even the burden of grief. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

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Faith and Refuge

July 18, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Rain Raining” by Markus Spiske/ CC0 1.0

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Faith and Fresh Trust

July 11, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Faith

May 2, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

Faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:

I had the privilege of watching the movie “Unsung Hero” this week. I laughed and cried as I watched the true story of this family face life challenges together. Because of financial issues, the Smallbone family of eight left Australia, pursuing an apparent open door in Nashville, TN. The door quickly closed, and they were left with a rented home, with no car or furniture. The mom was pregnant with her seventh child. This amazing mom made them beds from clothes in their suitcase. The parents came together as a team and so did the children. Often children are sheltered from the issues of life, but in this case, they had to work as a team. They prayed as a family and watched as God answered their prayers. It was often the mom’s perspective of seeing these difficulties as opportunities and adventures that held the family together. It caused them to all grow in faith and trust in the Lord. It reminded me of some difficulties my husband and I walked through following the Lord. I now see God was using them for good for my children’s sake.

Difficulties can make us or break us, it is true. Do we believe “he is a very present help in the time of trouble” or not? These were teaching moments for their children. I didn’t google the movie before I watched it. I knew it was advertised to be about “For King and Country” a male duo group. I did not know that out of this family came Rebecca St. James and the men in For King and Country are her brothers! Rebecca St. James is a singer/song writer that has encouraged many through her music. This movie is the true story of how God worked in and through her life.

As they rolled the credits, they included updates on the children and what they are doing as adults. It’s amazing that they are each accomplished in their fields. The difficulties they faced actually gave them a platform of faith for their current future. Praying with your children and modeling faith in a good God who does good things is always a good thing. Instead of turning away from the God of their parents, they are pursuing Him.

I am proud of my daughters as they are examples of faith, as well. I watch them encourage their children to trust the God we trusted in when they were children. They are married to men of faith and for that I am so grateful, but I watch them implementing some of the things we imparted to them, it makes my heart glad they have the same foundation. There were times we could have given in to fear and given up on trusting God, but by His grace we didn’t. We kept trusting and watching Him show up. He is still showing up, my friends. He is still trustworthy. Our son walks in the same trust, in the midst of difficult situations. He and his wife, Becca are a faith team as well.

When Darryl and I married, we chose to follow Him and His ways. We didn’t give up on Him or each other, but leaned on Him and sought after His ways. Active faith was evident in our lives, because we needed Him, and still do! My friends, don’t give up. He is trustworthy, no matter the trials or troubles you face. Release your faith today. Put Him and His ways first, you will never regret it.

When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. Isaiah 43:2-3. NLT. Remember, He is able to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Ephesians 3:20. So ask largely for His grace, glory and purpose for every trouble, difficulty or trial you might be facing. Do not give in to depression or discouragement. Stir up your faith in who you are trusting. He is more than able, my friends. Instead of asking “why” am I here in this trial, ask Him what He wants to do in and through it. If you are going to be going through it, it might as well be for His glory, right? Cry if you have to, but cry with Him. Your story doesn’t catch Him off guard, but by acknowledging Him makes you even more aware of His presence and purpose in your life.

Father, help us release our faith in even greater ways. Show us how to glorify your name by trusting you. I thank you for the challenges we have faced in the past and how you showed up. We overcome by the blood of the lamb and our testimonies. Thank you for each one. Help us to not let fear direct our paths, but faith. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

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Faith and His Promises

February 22, 2024 Martha Rodman2 Comments

Remember your promise to me; it is my only hope. Your promise revives me; it comforts me in all my troubles. Psalm 119:49-50. NLT

I am so so grateful for God’s promises. I am grateful that He is a promise keeper. He is faithful to His promise, when I am not. Today I am feeling a bit distracted and stuck. Trying to press through and spend time with Him, but it isn’t working too well. So I put on some worship music and tried to settle in. Still a struggle.

Spent a bit of time kneeling prostrate before Him, humbling myself and realizing our God is hearing me, no matter what I am feeling. He sees my heart and struggle to meet with Him. As I quieted my heart and just rested in the knowledge of His presence, peace came. I began to feel restored and strengthened. I found the above scripture and was comforted by His promises, once again.

Why do we make it so complicated? He longs to have a relationship with us. He paid the costly price of restoring our relationship to Him. What a joy for Him when He sees us wanting to be with Him, surrendered and waiting.

I love that His promises are personal. I can claim them, and so can you. He promised to never leave us nor forsake us (one of my favorite promises!). I read there are over 7,000 promises in the Bible. Take a look at your concordance and read some of them. They are refreshing and comforting. The Lord always keeps his promises; he is gracious in all he does. Psalm 145: 13

We find a marvelous example of what happens when we believe His promises in Romans 4:20. Abraham never wavered in believing God’s promise. Om fact, his faith grew stronger and in this he brought glory to God. He was fully convinced that God is able to do whatever he promises. When we continue to grow in our faith in God’s promises (His word), we bring Him glory. The Holy Spirit wants to help us grow in this area. What promises are you trusting in today? Keep on my friend, keep on believing. Do not let the enemy steal your hope. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled. May God who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other, as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus. Romans 15:4-5. NLT. Abraham and Sarah waited a long time to have their promised child. I can only imagine how difficult it was for them to keep trusting. (We know it wasn’t easy, because we have the story of Hagar and Ishmael).

Take time to renew your hope in His promises by reading His Word. Remind yourself of the stories (testimonies) of those who have gone before us. Remember that He who has begun a good work, will go on to perfect it. Philippians 1:6. If you need to remind yourself that He forgives when we ask–read Matthew 6 and the Lord’s prayer. Oh my friends, do not let a gap develop in your relationship with Him. No matter what season you find yourself in, He is present, able and willing to meet with you and me.

I find so much comfort in His promises, don’t you? Today, as I finally reminded myself of His promises I was able to enter in and find the rest He promises. It took some time, but it was so worth it!

Father, I thank you for your promises. I thank you that they are faithful and dependable, even we feel we aren’t worthy of them. I thank you for helping us trust in them and like Abraham, bring glory to your name. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

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Faith and Great Reminders

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Faith and Encouragement from Past Brothers and Sisters

October 12, 2017 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

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

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

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

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

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

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Faith and Dealing with the “Blahs”

August 17, 2017 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

Have you ever experienced a time in your walk with the Lord a season where you felt disengaged, separate or just like you were drifting? As it can happen with human relationships, it can also happen with our relationship with the Lord. The marriage relationship which began with such passion can drift into boring routines. Children, who were so anticipated, become responsibilities that demand our attention, strength and energy. And our relationship with Jesus can also deteriorate into a “hi-bye” kind of rut.

It is humbling to admit that I have experienced these sort of blahs in every one of my relationships. But, I am here to encourage and remind us that there is a way out of these doldrums. The amazing thing is that our God understands these tendencies. He is so aware of our weaknesses. In fact, he promises us that his power works best in weakness. (2 Corinthians 12:10 NLT) I confess that lately I have found myself struggling through a season of “blahs”. So when I felt the Lord wanting me to share this topic, I was less than thrilled! However, it is always freeing to admit our humanity and move into his grace and mercy.
How did I get here–into this season of “blahs”? I have kept up my devotional time (check), prayer-yes. So what is the deal? My life had been super busy, and then it shifted. I realized that during my busy time I did not take the time to really focus on what I was reading and really to whom I was praying. So coming out of such a time of busyness, I think I have been running on spiritual fumes. I am so grateful for the Holy Spirit and his grace to stir up the longing to re-connect in a more life-giving manner. But I also realized that I could continue on with this surface relationship and end up getting de-railed in my walk with him. We are warned about the distractions of life, how they can call us away from our first love. The enemy of our soul works through such things to dull our hearts toward the things of God and His Kingdom and cause us to settle for less. Not only does this affect our relationship with our Savior, it affects our usefulness for his kingdom.

God can use these times to stir us and motivate us to grow in new ways. Our enemy can use this time to lead us away from our gifts and callings. It is up to us, as sons and daughters, to determine to follow him. I am not trying to scare us into fear that we can lose our way easily. It is not like that, but I am trying to warn us (like Paul warned those around him) there are carefully disguised traps set around us that can catch us if we are not careful. We were given spiritual armor for a reason, let us all remember to use it!

Steps to Deal with the Blahs

The Lord Supper

Scriptures encourage us to take communion as a reminder of what Christ did for us. This is a time to remind ourselves of the price he paid and just how much he loves us.

Fellowship

We are encouraged to not forsake the gathering of ourselves together with our brothers and sisters. The strength and focus we gain from our spiritual family is crucial. Never underestimate how much we need each other. Taking time to share our burdens with the others lighten our load.

Worship

I sometimes use my online Bible app, You Version, to do my devotionals. Lately I have been using the reading feature to read the Psalms. Psalm 95 and 96 encourage us to sing to the Lord. I decided to not only read the words, but actually try singing to the Lord instead of singing about the Lord brought new thoughts and life to my soul.

The Word

Slowing down and focusing on what I am reading, asking the Holy Spirit for revelation as well as instruction really does feed my soul. Taking the time to journal these thoughts reinforce what I read.

Testimony

Sharing God stories with others helps us overcome as the Word promises.Stirs my heart up to have more to share!

Prayer

Being encouraged by the Word, sharing the God stories of others build faith to ask for Godly intervention in the problems of life for myself and others. But first, when I find myself fighting the blahs, I need to confess that to the Lord. I ask him to reveal any where I might have fallen into the enemies traps or had my heart drawn away from him. Then repent from any of those things he shows me.

These are just a few of the things that God has revealed to me concerning the blahs.

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Faith and Legacy

August 10, 2017August 10, 2017 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

This past week-end I had the blessing and privilege of spending time with my first-born daughter and her family. We enjoy being together, in fact it was hard to say good-bye. I enjoyed being around their three children and making memories. As I listened to their parents impart wisdom, instruction and encouragement it occurred to me that legacy is not always that which takes place after a memorial service. Legacy is something that comes line upon line, experience upon experience, day after day as in this case, parenting happens with intention.

We are all leaving a legacy of sorts. The normal definition of legacy is an amount of money or property left to someone in a will. What I am talking about comes from the second definition : something received from an ancestor or predecessor. Those we influence, we are in fact, leaving a legacy.

As I watched my daughter take time to calm, encourage, and instruct her daughter I realized she is helping influence not only her, but also those Abby comes into contact with in the future. I saw myself in her approach, and also saw ways she took my approach and has improved upon it! It was wonderful to watch her apply her education and learning into her children’s lives. These parents live with a desire to leave a legacy of being role models in the faith to their children.

Reading through I Chronicles 28 we discover King David gathering the leaders and officials of Israel together to speak wisdom and insight into their lives. Then he gets personal with his son, the new king, Solomon. And Solomon, my son, learn to know the God of your ancestors intimately. Worship and serve him with your whole heart and a willing mind. for the Lord sees every heart and knows every plan and thought. If you seek him, you will find him. But if you forsake him, he will reject you forever. so take this seriously. The Lord has chosen you to build a Temple as his sanctuary. Be strong, and do th work.

I can hear King David’s heart. His words of advice and wisdom encouraging Solomon to learn to know the God of his ancestors intimately resonates in my own heart. I true want to get to know this amazing God of creation, salvation and purpose more intimately than I have ever known him before. I must come to him in faith, with faith trusting that Matthew 11:28, Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light. Learning to walk with him, with his yoke and his rest for my soul is really the legacy I long to impart unto others in my sphere of influence. As I watch my son-in-law and daughter impart faith and hope into their children I see Darryl’s and my legacy already at work. This is a wonderful gift. Those of you whose children have not yet embraced your faith, do not grow weary in well-doing. Pray for them, love them, be gracious unto them and trust our God for His love to touch their hearts and lives. I know it is not easy.

Solomon had a clear job direction. Build the Temple. Maybe our focus is not as tangible, but we can always always go about doing good because charity never fails. Father, help us be mindful of the legacy we always building and leaving. Help it to glorify you and your Kingdom. In Jesus Name, amen.