Faith and a Circumcised Heart

March 14, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

Circumcise, therefore, the foreskin of your heart, and be no longer stubborn. Deuteronomy 10:16 ESV

These past few weeks have been very busy. I have been spending time with the Lord and His Word, but I felt a separation from Him. As I prayed this morning, I asked Him for grace to receive from Him whatever I needed to connect. My daily reading schedule brought me to this verse, but I read it in the New Living Translation. Therefore, change your hearts and stop being stubborn. I thought, wow, that’s pretty clear. As read through the footnotes, it talked about uncircumcised hearts. In nature, foreskins, which have been removed, do not grow back. Unfortunately, our spiritual hearts can grow calloused, hard and unfeeling, which can lead us to unreceptiveness to the Holy Spirit. This effectively, separates us from our God.

Walking with the Lord in this life exposes us to not only our own thoughts and experiences but also those of our friends, family, co-workers and even our governmental leaders. Our heart is then subject to the abuse and challenges of life. The question is, what are we going to do with the disappointments, discouragements, and unmet expectations that we encounter? Whether or not we acknowledge it, it affects our heart (soul).

In this section of Deuteronomy, Moses was trying to prepare the Israelites to enter the Promised Land. He wasn’t just interested in their bodies entering, but their entering in with an understanding of whose they were and the whys. He spent some good amount of time reminding them of their shortcomings, and God’s grace. He rehearsed the mess up with the Golden Calf and how he had to go back up to the mountain with God a second time. He shared with them how he interceded for Aaron and the lives of the Israelites. I believe his heart was to help them understand the importance of making a decision to serve the Lord and Him alone, no matter what lay ahead.

I think he was speaking corporately, but in order for a nation to serve the Lord, every individual needs to make that decision. It is the same with the Body of Christ, we each need to decide to make Him Lord. And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you? He requires only that you fear the Lord your God, and live in a way that pleases him, and love him and serve him with all your heart and soul. Deuteronomy 10:12. So how can we love Him, with all our heart and soul, if our hearts are hardened? If we have grown calloused? We find part of the solution in verse 16. Therefore, change your hearts and stop being stubborn. Circumcision of the heart implies submission and humility. It is acknowledging, God is God and we are not. It is choosing to walk in His ways not our ways.

When things don’t go our way, our fleshly tendencies rise up, and we want to take control. Maybe we look around for other “gods” to follow? My friends, the best thing we can do when we find ourselves in these scenarios, is yield to Him and His ways. Take the time to pour your heart out to Him and listen. Heartache is inevitable, but He binds up the broken-hearted. When we allow Him to comfort us in our sorrow, our hearts stay softened.

If you find yourself with a hardening heart, go to Him, not away from Him. Lean in to Him and His ways. Stay in His Word and take time to worship Him. These are all softening agents. Maybe confess your story to a trustworthy friend and ask them to pray with you. Expect God to respond. Release your faith. He is ready, willing, and able to help us through any difficult struggles. What joyous fellowship when we return–even if we have only strayed a little way. Take the time to allow Him to search your heart for all the “no’s” you might have said to Him. That is the beginning of a hardened heart.

Father, I thank you for helping us to walk with humble, soften hearts toward you. I ask you search our hearts for areas where we may have allowed anger, disappointment or discouragement to seep in, hardening our hearts. Remind us of your loving care. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

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.

Uncategorized

Faith and Asking

February 15, 2024 Martha Rodman1 Comment

Yet you don’t have what you want because you don’t ask God for it. James 4:2 NLT

This morning, I was praying for my friend. A few weeks ago, her car was stolen and destroyed so much the insurance company considered it totaled. So, she needs a different one. I realized, that I have not asked her what kind of car she would like! What is she believing for? I know what I think she needs, but that may be far from her desire.

Many years ago, our family was a one family car. I don’t quite remember the make, but it was a blue van. It was very useful for both carrying people and things. But, if Darryl needed it, I was stuck at home. It is not bad to have to coordinate schedules–it keeps the communication open, for sure. But our season of life was changing as our oldest daughter was beginning school and it wasn’t convenient to always work around her schedule. So as I was praying, I saw myself driving around in this little red car. I began to thank the Lord for this car.

We did not have the funds for an added car, but we did have the need. This was the first major purchase God put on my heart first, before Darryl in our marriage. I went to him, and said, “We need a second car. This is what God has shown me.” I think he was a little skeptical–but that was ok. I kept praying. We didn’t share it with anyone. A few months went by, and my mom called me and said, “Martha, I want to buy you a car. I can only give you $3,000.” I was so shocked! She had never, ever offered me anything like this ever before.

What a joy to go car shopping! I kept the picture God gave me in mind. As we told the salesman what we were looking for, I spied a little red VW Rabbit on the lot. I just knew it was the right car. Next to the Red Rabbit, was a green one. We drove both. The salesman tried really hard to put us in the green one, but I just didn’t like it. Long story short, we drove off with the Red Rabbit without paying him a dime! My mom had yet to send the funds. He trusted us to come back and pay him. We also negotiated it down to exactly $3,000! How I loved that car, mostly because it was a symbol of God’s provision and grace. It became our only car when we lent our van to a missionary family (it was gone for six months!). This blessing gave us the freedom to help meet our friends need before we even knew they needed it!

The first part of James, chapter 4, Paul asks why are there quarrels and conflicts among God’s people. Don’t they come from the evil desires at war within you? You want what you don’t have, so you scheme and kill to get it. You are jealous of what others have, but you can’t get it, so you fight and wage war to take it away from them. Yet you don’t have what you want because you don’t ask God for it. James 4: 1-2.NLT.

I think most of us are too refined and civilized to physically fight, but how many “conflicts” and “quarrels” have you fought in your own mind about the blessings others may have while you feel left out? The car my friend had stolen, was actually a gift to her from our church several years ago. I am sure, when she was selected, others may have felt disappointed because it wasn’t given to them. My friends, we must learn to rejoice with those that rejoice! We must learn to celebrate and trust our God is a God of both. He can bless you and me at the same time.

Even if these are internal or quiet jealousies, they will grow and cause separation between each other if we don’t deal with them. We must confess them to the Lord and allow His perspectives to become our perspectives. Last week I took a vacation with my daughter Elizabeth and her family to Disneyland. We had a wonderful time in the torrential rain!

There may be some who read this and become envious, but I hope not. This was a trip they had prayed and believed God for. It was a testimony to their children of God’s faithfulness. My grandchildren asked if I could come along! We made memories and it was a very special time. Please rejoice with us. So many times we settle for less, because we don’t even think there could be a way for us to do something. When those thoughts descend, you stop dreaming, much less praying. Begin to ask the Lord for His will and plans for you–maybe even outside of spiritual things. This trip stirred my faith to see what one man dreaming could accomplish. Many times getting out of our environment opens up greater vision.

While I was on the plane, God began to talk with me. He told me that He had given me the gift of faith, not just to my husband. As I began to think about the amazing things faith had accomplished through our lives, I was humbled. Looking on the horizon facing me–I have thousands of dollars of home repairs (more than when we left!), a new ministry to lead and some health issues to release my faith and see Him move. Boldly asking for provision, wisdom and healing brings peace as well as hope. Do I believe He is able to do all these things? Yes, He is more than enough. He is not only a God of both, He is a God of many facets.

Our testimonies lead to more faith and more testimonies if we let them. Of course there are new challenges which must be met with increased faith. Don’t stop growing in your faith, my friends. Remember, He is a good God, doing good things in and through our lives–yours included, if we don’t get stuck in unbelief or fear. There was a reason God told Joshua several times “be strong and of good courage”, it takes both those things to press forward in His ways. I want to remind you–it is worth it. Don’t give up.

When I see my friend, I am going to ask her what kind of car she is believing for, and then I will join my faith with hers and watch our God show up!

Father, teach us how to release our faith in these days. Teach us how to apply Your Word to those difficult situations and to take the time to ask you for things, not just whine because we need them. I thank you for loving us, teaching us and helping us grow in these areas. Forgives us our jealousies, in Jesus’ Name, amen.

Uncategorized

Faith and a Testimony of Thankfulness

February 1, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

May you be filled with joy, always thanking the Father. Colossians 1:11-12. NLT.

January is finally over. This new year brought so many challenges to so many of my friends and family. Some of them are still ongoing (like the passing of loved ones), while fortunately some will soon be forgotten (my plumbing issue). This post is to simply thank God for His work in and through my life. I hope it encourages you to take a moment and thank Him for what He is doing in and through yours.

For several months, as I looked around our church, I saw many of the pillars from the past aging and unable to contribute as they used to. It bothered me that they seemed to becoming invisible without people knowing their contributions. So I began to pray and then made an appointment to speak with our pastor about this need. I envisioned a ministry that would encourage and help the Seniors at our church. When I shared my heart with him, I could see it touched his heart as well. With a very humble heart, we began this journey. I am very thankful for his open and caring heart.

What I didn’t know at the time, was how this would stretch me. How I would be confronted by my own sense of inadequacy as this task began to take on a ministry with a much bigger scope than I ever imagined. I saw it as a giant octopus with so many legs that were flailing around. How could we ever tame the beast and make it work? For weeks I wrestled with the overwhelming task. Why did I take this on? I am thankful for this wrestling. I am thankful because I am/was forced to seek Him in new measures. I am thankful because He gave me the compassion to continue when I wanted to quit. It seemed overwhelming and it was very uncomfortable.

Thankfully, God began to send team members with like-minded hearts. We came together and began to brainstorm and dream. Our accumulative strength, faith and grace gave me the courage to press on. For this I am so very thankful and grateful to our Father.

It is still a very fledgling ministry, but I have confidence that it will grow and develop to touch many lives. Do I know how it will all work? No. After much struggle in prayer, I realized one of my missing pieces. We were trying to develop a “program” based ministry, but I realized through the Holy Spirit, it needed to be relationship based, because that was how it was going to be built. Then we could discover the real needs that need to be met. When that revelation took place much of my struggle ceased. I began to see Jesus and His ministry was relationship based. He didn’t have programs! The young church in Acts developed feeding and caring programs, which came after they were in relationship and saw the need. How simple and obvious it seems now. But I am thankful for the struggle I went through because it reinforced it was not my idea to work this program, but it is God’s plan. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn this lesson yet again!

As we move toward our public (church wide) launch March 3, I am getting excited and I feel much more confident than I was when we began. I am thankful for teammates who compliment my skill set, but I also know I need to set myself to learn some new software admin type stuff. I am grateful because the Lord has helped me understand I can rely on Him to quicken my mind so I am not afraid of tackling it. Do I expect to mess up, probably. But understanding you are ignorant in a scenario does not mean that God won’t challenge you to learn something new. I am so thankful for courage to learn. Do you need some fresh courage to learn or step out in God’s assignments for yourselves? Ask Him.

Once again I have been confronted to believe God and His Word in fullness, not just in my mind. Is His Word true? Of course, then act like it! Sounds simple, but He understands how the process of renewing our mind works. I am thankful I can see and sense a change in my own soul in these areas. My faith is growing in Him, not myself. Sometimes we are not aware of how much unrest we carry, until He brings His peace. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Colossians 3: 15. Faith is released more when we are have peace. It is interconnected. He is working in all our lives to bring this about and we can trust Him to do it!

My friends, God is such a good God doing good things in our lives. I encourage you to look around to see how He is working in your life and thank Him for it. Thank Him for even the hard parts. They will work out for your good, He promises!

Father, I thank you for your faithfulness to work in our hearts and lives. To bring us to places we could never go ourselves. I thank you for helping us learn how to let your peace reign and rule in our hearts so we can be free to accept your challenges and opportunities! You are so amazing, thank you for not leaving us as we are. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

Uncategorized

Faith and His Faithfulness

January 25, 2024 Martha Rodman1 Comment

Your unfailing love, O Lord, is as vast as the heavens; your faithfulness reaches beyond the clouds. Psalm 36:5 NLT.

2024 is 25 days in. Life still keeps me on my knees and looking upward! It is amazing how in the midst of so many challenges God proves Himself faithful. I mentioned last week about the mess in my back bedroom. More issues were discovered and in some places, we are down to studs and the outside brick wall. But as I trust Him, and my wonderful contractor, it will get restored. All that takes is money, supplies and hard work. God is faithful to provide.

But what about other things, the harder things that money won’t fix? Can we trust His faithfulness during those times? Yes, we can. Here is an example of His faithfulness in one of life’s most challenging situations.

This past Sunday, my dear niece, Anne Hardy passed into the loving arms of our Savior. Anne is the oldest daughter of my oldest biological sister. A sister my triplet sisters and I were not raised with due to my parents personal issues. It was God’s faithfulness that brought each of us back together in person, when we were about 28. It is amazing how God re-connected our lives. His faithfulness was demonstrated through the prayers of our Aunt Freda; a dear precious believer who prayed our family would be reunited due to our adoption. (After our birth, the state became involved and some of our sisters were placed in foster care). My parents had eight children. My sister Betty is twenty years older than we are and is an amazing woman in her own right. Anne’s full name was Elizabeth Anne–the same as my daughter! (Because I only knew her as “Anne”, I didn’t know her full name!)

Anne’s last several months was filled with hospital stays as she battled pancreatic cancer. We watched God’s faithfulness as He strengthened her and blessed her. The outcome was not on our agenda, but His faithfulness was so manifested. Early on in the process Anne had a dream. In this dream she was in heaven. She saw many angels around the throne and it was beautiful. There was one angel who had the Book of Life, and said, “no, it’s not time for you”. Then she was escorted back to earth. I remember the peace and hope that came as she shared this dream with me. Yes, God was going to heal her!

Later on, she had a second dream (shared to me by her sister Debbie). In this dream, Anne wrote her obituary. As she finished and re-read it, she said, “you know this was a pretty good life!”. Debbie wasn’t happy about that dream. As it became obvious her time here on earth was short, the immediate family gathered in the hospital. Her amazing husband Doyle was at her bedside holding her hand. She had been through so much and Doyle exemplified God’s faithfulness in so many ways. Anne loved music. Doyle put on a Gaither song, “Mansion over the Hilltop” and as they listened to this promise, he leaned over and told her she was free to go. Her pulse and breathing ceased. Then Doyle felt a touch on his shoulder. As he turned to see who touched him, no one was there. It was as if Anne gave him one finally touch.

Someone asked Doyle how he was feeling. He said, “pure joy”. Only our good and faithful God could do that. Our God is so faithful. We need to trust Him more, and not let the enemy rob of us of who our God really is. These dreams and this final story are helping our family walk through these days. I know Anne has left some big holes in the lives of her mom, her brother and her sister, but our God is faithful and able to bring His comfort.

These two seeming polar opposite stories (my room issue) and Anne’s passing are examples of God’s faithfulness in my life this month. There are so many more. I want to encourage you to look out for them in your own life. I have found walking in thankfulness, brings me even more aware of His faithfulness.

Father, I thank you for Your dependable faithfulness, which not only reaches past the clouds but into every area of our lives, if we let You. I ask You help us to open our eyes in even the hardest places to find you, because I know you are there. Thank you, my dear Savior. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

Uncategorized

Faith and Insecurity

January 11, 2024 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

Therefore, do not throw away your confidence which has great reward. Hebrews 10:35. ESV.

January 1, I spent some focused time with the Lord. I just poured my heart out, admitting I felt inadequate for some callings I feel He has set before me. As I shared my heart with Him, not only did naming my fears and shortcomings make them more understandable to me, He responded. He told me that the enemy was trying to undermine my confidence not only in myself but also in Him and His ability to equip me for the position He has called me too. This sounds like pretty basic spiritual warfare, doesn’t it? And it is. But sometimes the subtle tactics can not only be the most effective to slow us down but also so sneaky we don’t recognize it at first.

As we continued the conversation, my eyes were opened to just how subtle and effective this tactic had been working in my life. Not only was it eroding my confidence in this area, but it was spilling over into other areas of my life. So, I asked the Lord for His strategies for combatting this warfare.

This is why I love our Lord so much. He gave me directions and practical solutions! Now, these are very obvious but useful solutions. The first one is to be thankful. As I upped my gratitude and open thankfulness, my confidence began to return. He led me to thank Him for His wisdom being my wisdom, and His ability to become my ability. The subtle warfare led me to take my eyes off the Lord and onto myself, no wonder I felt insecure. By actively thanking the Lord for His help, ability, promises it made it about Him, not me! I am feeling much more confident than ever before.

But He also led me to thank Him for any and every breakthrough we may need as a team. This means every team member will receive their own breakthroughs as well. Hope and expectation are rising in my heart. As I laid down (again) my ways to His ways, confidence is rising.

Dear ones Joshua had big shoes to fill after Moses died. What did God tell him? Be strong and courageous, for you are the one who will lead these people to possess all the land I swore to their ancestors I would give them. Be strong and very courageous. Joshua 1: 6-7. NLT. I am sure those subtle lies were spoken to him too, but God told Him what to do. Be strong and very courageous. My friends, no matter what will come our way in 2024, we can know we can handle it. Do not let insecurity or fear overwhelm you. Begin to thank Him for giving you every ability you need to accomplish this good work in you and through you.

I have found continued encouragement in Colossian 1:11. We also pray that you will be strengthened with all his glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. As I pray this prayer for myself and our team, once again hope and expectation rise. Insecurity festers and flourishes when we forget we have His power and that He will enable us to have the endurance and patience we need to run our race. Confidence rises when we trust Him to keep His promises and we align ourselves with His Word. There are things on God’s agenda for each of us this coming year. Let’s not let fear, insecurity or pride stand in our way. Colossians 1:10 Then you way you will live will always honor and please the Lord, and your lives will produce every kind of good fruit. All the while you will grow as you learn to know God better and better. What a blessed promise!

Father, I thank you for helping us get rid of all insecurity that may be lurking in our lives. I thank you that you are enabling everyone who reads these words to be strong and courageous in both the big and little assignments You have given them. Strengthen moms and dads, leaders and followers, employees and employers to bear good confident fruit for Your kingdom’s sake, In Jesus’ Name, amen.

Uncategorized

Faith and God’s Help

January 4, 2024 Martha Rodman3 Comments

Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock and it shall be opened to you. Matthew 7:7

Every year for about 15-16 years I have read through the Bible, starting with Genesis and going on to Revelation. I’ve used different plans, some with devotionals, some time without. This year was the first year I did not look forward to starting over. My attitude really surprised me. On December 30 as I looked through the YouVersion Bible app for a new devotional, I finally admitted to myself and the Lord that I didn’t want to do it again. I was embarrassed to admit it! But then I shared it with the Lord. I told Him, you are going to have to help me with this. I am sorry for my attitude, I know it is not right. But there it is. I know Your Word is important. I left it in His hands.

So,Sunday, December 31, our pastor began shari1ng the importance of starting our day/year with Jesus. He quoted Matthew 6:33, But seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously and he will give you everything you need. NLT. He then went back up to Matthew 6:9-13, with what is known as the Lord’s prayer. Now, I already knew I was going to keep reading and studying God’s Word, no matter how I was feeling on December 30, but God began to shift my heart and my feeling, in other words, He began to help me.

As Pastor Hurley expounded on “Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy”, I found myself repenting again. My heart was stirred to keep God’s name and attributes through my life holy. I know I can’t/couldn’t do it on my own. I need Him, the Holy Spirit and His Word to help me accomplish that goal. He mentioned as we declare God is holy, we are joining Heaven’s chorus! The thought that our voice and life can unite with those who have gone on before and God’s angelic beings brought me to such a humble place. I felt small and yet strong and able at the same time.

As I began to read His Word (in Genesis!) on January 1, I found an excitement and noticed things I had not seen before. Was this surprising? No, because the word is alive! For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires. Hebrews 4:12. NLT. Our Life Group is beginning a study on the book of Colossians. In prepping for the study, I began reading it on Monday. I left my time in His Word strengthened, encouraged and knowing God had answered my prayer.

So yesterday, January 2, I ran a load of wash. I heard some gurgling and found water backed up into my tub. Because I felt so strengthened by His Word, I simply began to pray for solution. A year or so ago, I needed a plumber and found a great one–but I couldn’t remember the company’s name. I prayed, and after a bit, it came to me. I called and left a message. The water eventually drained. So I did another load this morning…it was even worse. I received a call back from the plumbing company. They are booked out until the end of February! I asked for referrals, she gave me one. I called and am waiting for a call back and appointment for early next week. Is this upsetting? Yes…but I decided something based on my Colossians study. I will not let this situation distract me from God’s plan or His truth. Is it inconvenient? Of course. But I will not let it take my joy nor my position in Christ. Money will fix the problem. God is the provider and He will make sure it is taken care of.

What I am trying to express, is God listened to my desperate heart cry to help my heart change. He brought my pastor’s great message, my own discipline in spending time in His Word and the Holy Spirit’s leading to the book of Colossians to help me face this challenge with strength. I refuse to worry about the what if’s. I refuse to be afraid of the bill. It isn’t worth it! This is one of the verses that brought me to this stance: We also pray that you will be strengthened with all his glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. Colossians 1: 11. I prayed this prayer for myself on Monday. I felt His power strengthening me, and it still is. The next verse: May you be filled with joy, always thanking the Father. He has enabled you to share in the inheritance that belongs to his people, who live in the light. Colossians 1:12. Isn’t it silly how easily we get our joy robbed from us because we let it happen. God wants to us to walk full of His joy, not with an empty or low tank. He wants us to have enough joy to carry us through every situation we face, no matter what, and we can have it because He is our helper!

I know my plumbing situation is a small thing in the big sphere of things, but isn’t often the smaller things that trip us up? God wants us to grow this year in our ability to handle the things life hands us. He will teach us the how’s, the ways and give us all the grace and mercy we need to learn, as we trust Him. Isn’t He awesome??

Father, thank you for loving us enough that you never leave us nor forsake us. Thank you for understanding our weak places, but not leaving us there. Thank you for helping us grow up in you and your ways this next year, because we want to let our lives to glorify Your Name. I ask you to strengthen my friends this day, in every needed area, in Jesus’ Name, amen.

Uncategorized

Faith and A Testimony

December 28, 2023 Martha Rodman2 Comments

If you pour yourself out for the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then shall your light rise in the darkness and your gloom be as the noonday. Isaiah 58:10.

I want to share with you an amazing God story. This is not my story, but the story of the family of God at Life Church, here in Oak Harbor, WA. Last year, our pastors decided to stretch our faith and seek to give away 400 food bags to the needy parts of our city. This year, our goal was 800 bags, serving Oak Harbor and a neighboring area, Anacortes.

This focus on “genero-city” included faith building messages and reminders of God’s promises. As we turned our eyes away from ourselves and onto Jehovah Jireh (The God who will provide) our faith was built and stretched. We were asked to give $40 per family, but not only supply for their need, but also to pray for them. Praying for “my” families made it so real. By God’s grace, I was able to contribute so several families would be provided for. It was a joy, not a burden.

I have always loved to give. It is something God has worked in my heart and soul, but somehow, through these teachings, I found myself looking for more needs to be met! Not only did we give financially, we also sacrificed time and energy. The Sunday before the give away, cards were placed at each targeted area, alerting the occupants that bags of food would be distributed the next Sunday. 800 homes received these cards. On Wednesday, about 130 people came to fill the bags with food goods for 800 Christmas dinners. Each bag also contained a Bible and invitation card to Life Church. Sunday hams were added to these bags and new teams set out to deliver them.

As each team delivered these bags, they offered to pray for the people. It was amazing how many people accepted that offer. One woman was so glad to receive her bag, but was more concerned that her friend would get a bag. The problem was that this woman was quite deaf, so they were instructed to knock very loudly at her apartment. This gal watched closely as another team went to her friend’s door, but she didn’t answer. Her friend said, wait, I have a key to her apartment. She is my best friend. When she unlocked her friend’s door, they discovered she was asleep in her recliner…but a pot on her stove was on fire! The timing of this food bag delivery saved her life and possibly the homes of many.

We heard another touching story. A young child came to the door, and then called her mom and siblings. Her mother had just told the children that they had no money or food for Christmas dinner. The children were very sad of course, and then our team showed up! Only God’s timing could turn things around so quickly. Prayers for healing, hope and provision were given to many.

My part during the delivery time was to be part of our intercessory prayer team. It was a joy to follow the Holy Spirit as He led us to pray for God’s leading for each team member. We felt His Presence, and they did also. We are still praying the seeds sown will bear much fruit for each family, and that the Bible would be read, and the blessing of the reading would be evident.

What is the take-away for me and you? It always pays to be obedient to the Holy Spirit, no matter how much it stretches your faith and your provision. It is always worth it. God cares for the poor, the widow and the orphans, we should too. Isaiah 58:10-11 in the message gives us this promise: If you are generous with the hungry and start giving yourselves to the down-and -out, Your lives will begin to glow in the darkness, your shadowed lives will be bathed in sunlight. I will always show you where to go. I’ll give you a full life in the emptiest of places–firm muscles, strong bones. You will be like a well-watered garden, a gurgling spring that never runs dry. If we love and care for those our God cares for He will care for us.

Father, please help us to love others as you love us and as you love them. The poor, the orphan, the widow, the disabled, the weak and the strong. Help us get our eyes off ourselves and onto others, in Jesus’ Name, amen.

Uncategorized

Faith and Shepherds

December 21, 2023 Martha RodmanLeave a comment

Glory to God in highest, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased. Luke 2: 14 NLT.

I admit it is hard for me to comprehend the word “glory”. It is not a word that shows up in my vocabulary often! And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they werer filled with great fear. One angel showing up brings the glory of the Lord to these shepherds, just one. Imagine, these shepherds were doing their normal watch…looking out for predators or wandering sheep when suddenly their whole night was shifted. It was a sudden change of events. An angel showing up would probably cause me to be afraid as well!

This angel says to them: Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” Wow–talk about a great interruption–an angelic visitation with good news.

We aren’t told much more about these shepherds. They were available for interruption because they were watching! Some background study of the culture of the time, reveals that shepherds were considered even lower than Samaritans. They were not allowed to be witnesses in court cases, and they were considered untrustworthy because they had a reputation of being thieves. Yet, for some reason God decided to share the good news of Jesus’ birth with these fellows.

Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others–the armies of heaven–praising God and saying, ” Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.” Did you get that last phrase? Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased. Maybe that is why the Angel came to the shepherds, to show them that God accepted them. A huge vast host of angels giving glory to God must have been amazing. As I was pondering this event, I was thinking about how these angels really knew, first hand, the God they were praising. When we really encounter Him, our praise is genuine.

When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go to Bethlehem! Let’s see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” I am sure there must have been some discussion about what to do with the sheep because after all, they were their livelihood. But they took the angels news as an invitation to go and see this grand event.

Do you think you would have gone? Or do you think you would have needed a clearer invitation? The Holy Spirit must have motivated them to simply follow the clues given. Hmm, you will find him wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger. They knew about mangers, I am sure, and they probably knew that mangers would be found in a barn like structure–so off they went. They hurried to the village and found Mary and Joseph. And there was the baby, lying in the manger. Amazing, right?

But then, God used them to spread the good news. After seeing him, the shepherds told everyone what had happened and what the angel had said to them about this child. They became the first evangelists! All who heard the shepherds story were astonished, but Mary kept all these things in her heart and thought about them often. The shepherds went back to their flocks, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen. It was just as the angel had told them. Luke 2:18-20. NLT.

The shepherds took up the praise and glorifying God, like the angels. Our God is moving amongst us and is answering prayer. I’ve watched Him this week change discouragement and depression into hope. Bring financial blessings to those who need it, because He is a real God, still doing real things. He is saving people from their sins and from themselves. For that I can only give Him the glory. This is a gift we can give our Heavenly Father, glory.

Father, I thank you for showing me new things in this familiar story. I ask you help me and your children to take the time to glorify your name, as you deserve. Let me not take you for granted. I am so grateful you came to the shepherds and used them to spread your good news. It gives me hope you can use me. Thank you, in Jesus’ Name, amen.

Uncategorized

Faith and “Stops”

December 14, 2023 Martha Rodman1 Comment

One Sabbath day, as Jesus was teaching in a synagogue, he saw a woman who had been crippled by an evil spirit. She had been bent double for eighteen years, and was unable to stand up straight. When Jesus saw her, he called her over and said, “Dear woman, you are healed of your sickness! Then he touched her, and instantly she could stand straight. How she praised God! Luke 13: 10-13. NLT.

One thing teachers, usually don’t like to have to deal with, is interruptions. They are focusing on communicating their thought–giving their best so their listeners will get their point, but here we find Jesus interrupting his own teaching because he saw a woman in need. But is this an example that we too, should be following? Personally, I think it might be appropriate!

I don’t know if you have ever saw a person who was bent double, I have. I felt so sorry for them. For the most part, to them, it is a ground level view of life–full of shoes, legs and a very sore neck trying to look up. Eating may be difficult because of the angle the esophagus and stomach are in. This condition robbed her of the ability to have a lap. She couldn’t hold her babies like normal or even communication with others was hindered.

This woman had been in this condition for 18 years. I am sure by now she had adapted as best she could. People around her had grown used to her as well. Nobody expected anything different for her, that was just her life. But one Sabbath day, Jesus saw her.

One Sabbath, this un-named faithful woman went to the synagogue in spite of her condition. I don’t think she made any excuses that she couldn’t stand or sit very long, she went as usual. Sometimes we may feel if we don’t do something extra ordinary, we won’t receive anything extra ordinary–but it is often doing the right thing that puts us in the right place for the right thing to happen. But her faithfulness put her in the right place for the most extraordinary thing to happen.

Jesus saw her. He stopped teaching and called her over, laid hands on her and she was healed. Then he touched her, and instantly she could stand straight. What an amazing sight it must have been. Then the scripture goes on to say: How she praised God. What a rightful response!

This woman was worth Jesus stopping his teaching to bring freedom to her life. Who is worth your stopping? Your interruption? It is hard in our busy world to make the stops sometimes. Maybe she was a beloved and cared for woman, or maybe she was just a deformed woman everyone took for granted who hid in the background. We don’t know. But what we do know is after 18 years of suffering, our Lord saw her and set her free. He stopped what He was doing and released her. Maybe sharing a smile, a word of encouragement or compliment may help someone feel seen or freed. Stopping and really looking at your food server or check-out person can make their day. Giving a gift of food or even a little cash makes a difference. My friends, if Jesus can stop his teaching to help someone, what can we do? This means we must first stop focusing on just ourselves, and that can be a hard thing to do, right? I want to share a very small example:

While I was in the check out- line at the grocery store the other day, I overheard the check out person talking with the bagger. The bagger was an older woman who, apparently, wasn’t feeling her best. To be honest, she didn’t look too well either. After I paid and received my bag, I simply leaned over to her, touched her shoulder and (out loud) but quietly asked Jesus to touch her. She looked startled, but then smiled as I wished her a better day. I have never seen her before, nor probably will I ever again, but I do know I did my best to encourage her. Was it appropriate? I don’t know, but it was in my heart to do so. I keep praying for her as well. This was a quick stop in both our days, prayerfully, I believe it made a difference.

I think sometimes, we are afraid to “stop” because we are afraid it might “cost” us more than we want to give. We may feel overwhelmed with the time, talent or treasure it may involve, so we pass on by. But we can’t possible consider what it may be purchasing, not only for the other person, but also for ourselves. If the Holy Spirit says stop, then stop. We can trust Him for provision and blessing, we truly can.

Father, I thank you for helping us not be afraid to “stop” and follow the Holy Spirit lead. Help us overcome our fear that it might “cost” us more than we want to give, or fear we aren’t enough. You are always enough, dear Lord, and we trust You to help us in this area. In Jesus Name, amen.