How to Pray for the Soul - Yours or AnotherJohn Piper For thoughtful people, how they pray for the soul is governed by how they believe God acts. So, for example, if they believe God changes people's souls so that they make new and right choices, then they will ask God to make those soul-changes through evangelism and nurture. But not everybody is thoughtful about the way they pray. They don't think about what view of God is behind their praying.
So what I suggest is that we learn first to pray for the soul from the way the Bible prays for the soul. If we do that, then our prayers will probably be good prayers, and in the process we will also learn about how God acts. Here is the way I pray for my soul. I use these prayers over and over again-for myself and my children and wife and for the staff and the elders and for all the church. This is the meat and potatoes of my prayer life.
The first thing my soul needs is an inclination to God and his word. Without that, nothing else will happen of any value in my life. I must want to know God and read his word and draw near to him. Where does that "want to" come from? It comes from God. So Psalm 119:36 teaches us to pray, "Incline my heart to Your testimonies and not to gain."
Next I need to have the eyes of my heart opened, so that when my inclination leads me to the word I see what is really there and not just my own ideas. Who opens the eyes of the heart? God does. So Psalm 119:18 teaches us to pray, "Open my eyes, that I may behold wonderful things from Your law."
Then I need for my heart to be enlightened with these "wonders." I need to perceive glory in them and not just interesting facts. Who enlightens the heart? God does. So Ephesians 1:18 teaches us to pray "That the eyes of your heart may be enlightened."
Then I am concerned that my heart is fragmented and that parts of it might remain in the dark while other parts are enlightened. So I long for my heart to be united for God. Where does that wholeness and unity come from? From God. So Psalm 86:11 teaches us to pray, "O Lord, I will walk in Your truth; unite my heart to fear Your name."
What I really want from all this engagement with the Word of God and the work of his Spirit in answer to my prayers is that my heart will be satisfied with God and not with the world. Where does that satisfaction come from? It comes from God. So Psalm 90:14 teaches us to pray, "O satisfy us in the morning with Your lovingkindness, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days."
But I don't just want to be happy in my own little private world with God. I want my happiness to be as full as possible for spreading and expanding for others. I want to be strong in joy. This will make me durable in the face of threats or adversity. Where does that strength and durability come from? It comes from God. So Ephesians 3:16 teaches us to pray, "That God would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man."
Finally, I want my strength in Christ to produce good deeds for others so that the glory of God will be seen in my life. Who produces these good deeds? God does. So Colossians 1:10 teaches us to pray, "That [we] will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord . . . bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God."
All this I pray "in Jesus' name," because God gives these things to my soul only because Jesus died for me and removed the wrath of God so that the Father might "freely give me all things" (Romans 8:32).
To remember some of these prayers, I use an acronym-IOUS-almost every day in praying for those I love, asking God to give us an inclination to his Word and not to money or fame or power (Psalm 119:36), and to open our eyes to see wonderful things when we read his Word (Psalm 119:18), and to have hearts united in the fear of God rather than fragmented over a dozen concerns (Psalm 86:11), and to be satisfied in his steadfast love (Psalm 90:14).
Finding Your Sweet Spot
Ruth Soukup
Despite man's best efforts, the world's longing for peace remains unfulfilled. Each new generation has high hopes for reconciliation among people and nations but in the end faces disappointment.
One day Christ will return and make everything right. Until then, believers are called to be His ambassadors of peace. However, becoming a Christian does not automatically change us into people who pursue kindness and unity.
At times we're quick-tempered and impatient and find it hard to live in harmony with others. We may have trouble letting go of attitudes or habits that hurt those around us-and occasionally we don't even want to. God knows our true character and has provided the Holy Spirit to transform us into Jesus' likeness. The Spirit opens our minds to understand and apply Scripture. He gives us the power to say no to ungodliness and to replace me-centered thinking with a Christ-centered viewpoint. He patiently produces His fruit in us, which includes love, joy, and peace (Gal. 5:22-23). With His help, we can become peacemakers who work to bring about reconciliation between God and others (Matt. 5:9).
While our world keeps hoping for peace through man's solutions, we know the only source of lasting unity is Jesus Christ.
The Lord wants our hearts to be ruled by His peace (Col. 3:15) and our relationships to be marked by a spirit of oneness. How encouraged other people will be when they realize it's the transforming power of God in our lives that brings about reconciliation in our marriages, families, and churches.
Godly Living in an Ungodly Age
Titus 1
Our Founding Fathers created a governing framework based upon biblical principles. Slowly, we have changed from "one nation under God" to a group of people who no longer want Him to be involved.
Tragically, we've become, in numerous ways, an ungodly nation: many are driven by materialism and power; immorality and rebellion are prevalent; empty philosophy and false doctrine are widely acceptable. Underlying it all is a vocal decision to take God out of the nation's "official business."
Yet even in an unbelieving society, people can, as individuals, follow Jesus. But the world will continually disseminate faulty teachings, so believers must be discerning. Otherwise, erroneous messages can lead Christians to compromise their convictions. Then affections and priorities may change. Don't let the world's clamor make the Spirit's voice less audible. Without His guidance, our minds become vulnerable to lies.
The Word of God is a compass that keeps us headed in the right direction-even in the midst of confusing messages all around. We need to be consistently filled with truth by reading, believing, meditating upon, and applying Scripture. God also tells us to "pray without ceasing" (1 Thess. 5:17). If our minds are focused upon Him, unholy beliefs will not be able to take root.
The Word is our guidebook. We will still face difficulty as we live in this imperfect world-it is a confusing, dark place that entices us but never fulfills our true longings. Yet God's truth will bring confidence and boldness, and His Spirit will direct and strengthen, enabling us to live victoriously.
Godliness
Matthew 9:11-13
There is a common misconception that believers should be perfect. Pretending to have our lives in order, many of us wear happy faces and speak words that sound acceptable. At times we're ashamed to admit our shortcomings, as if they should not exist. Salvation through Jesus, however, doesn't change the fact that sin is present in our life. When we're born again, God forgives us and sees us as righteous. Yet our battle with sin continues till we arrive in heaven.
In fact, striving for perfection actually can be a trap that pulls us away from living a godly life. Functioning in this way is a form of relying on our own capability. Jesus said that He came to heal the spiritually sick because they recognized their weakness. With an awareness of our inadequacy comes the realization of our need for Him.
The world sees successful individuals as powerful and self-sufficient, but Jesus didn't care about these qualities. Instead, He wants people to be aware of their own brokenness. This is the foundation for godliness.
We should accept our neediness and seek God passionately. Doing so allows the following attributes to develop: a hunger for God's Word, faithful service, deepening trust, and decision-making based upon principle rather than preference. Patiently and mercifully, God matures us.
Be careful not to cover up your sins in order to look like a "good Christian." Without recognition and confession of our sinfulness, we are unable to rely fully on God. It is only with this awareness that we can passionately seek Him, obey in His strength, and confess with repentance when we miss the mark.
Jesus Our Intimate Friend
Matthew 26:47-50
I've counseled plenty of folks who argue that they are not worthy of God's love. Of all the passages I could point to that describe the Lord's devotion, today's is the one I think best showcases the unqualified friendship He offers His followers.
As Jesus was praying in the garden of Gethsemane on the night before His crucifixion, Judas Iscariot approached him with a band of men. The betrayer stepped forward and kissed the Lord's cheek. And what was Jesus' response? According to another disciple, Matthew, He called the man "Friend" (Matt. 26:50).
Judas expected Jesus to establish His kingdom on earth and drive the Romans out of Israel-anyone who could calm a storm at sea could easily remove an oppressive government! But Judas's interest in Jesus was more personal and political than spiritual. In fact, John reported that his fellow disciple stole from the money box (12:6). Today the man's name is synonymous with those who betray others for personal gain.
In spite of Judas' greed, blind ambition, and betrayal, Jesus never stopped loving him; He still used the word "friend" to address the one-time disciple. The Lord does not place conditions on His love or reject people who fail to meet certain standards. He simply cares for us as we are.
People cannot earn Jesus Christ's love and friendship. He takes the initiative, reaches out, and draws into fellowship those who are willing. We are not worthy, but we are privileged to live in His love anyway. In the Lord, we find a friend who sticks closer than a brother (Prov. 18:24).
God Is Our Loving Father
Luke 15:11-24
Humanity tends to project its own faulty habits onto God. This is especially true regarding the nature of His love. We think we must barter, plead, or try hard to earn the Lord's favor. But as the prodigal son learned, the Father's love is unconditional.
The Holy City
"And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God." (Revelation 21:2-3)
On the night of the last supper, Jesus made a wonderful promise to His disciples: "In my Father's house are many mansions. . . . I go to prepare a place for you. And . . . I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also" (John 14:2-3). Eventually, at His second coming, those who belong to Him shall be with Him.
That this promise applies to all His disciples (not just the eleven in the upper room) is evident in His prayer right after this conversation: "Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word. . . . Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am" (John 17:20, 24). When the Lord returns, or when we die as believers, "so shall we ever be with the Lord" (1 Thessalonians 4:17).
That place where we shall be with Him, which He is still preparing for us, is the Holy City, new Jerusalem; for our text says that "he will dwell with them" there and be their God. The last two chapters of the Bible describe in some detail that beautiful "tabernacle of God," in which we who believe in Christ will all have our Christ-prepared mansions some day.
This magnificent city is not heaven, for John saw it "coming down from God out of heaven." Right now, therefore, it is in heaven, where the Lord Jesus is, along with the souls of those believers who already have gone "to be present with the Lord" (2 Corinthians 5:8). There in the Holy City, "the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him" with eternal joy (Revelation 22:3). HMM
King of All the Earth
"For God is the King of all the earth: sing ye praises with understanding." (Psalm 47:7)
This stirring psalm of praise which celebrates the reign of Christ over all the earth, finds its primary fulfillment in Christ's second coming and full reign over His Kingdom. The reader is exhorted to "sing praises unto our King" (v. 6). The reign of Christ certainly gives cause for celebration. His arrival forces the psalmist to proclaim, "O clap your hands, all ye people" (v. 1).
What has happened to make this Kingship such cause for celebration? After all, "by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible or invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him" (Colossians 1:16). He belongs on the throne. We should expect to find Him there. However, even though there is a sense in which He reigns today, the sad fact remains that another has usurped rule.
This usurper can be none other than Satan, who not only claims rule of the creation for himself but who spoiled the original perfection of the creation which now "groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now" (Romans 8:22). He has encouraged men to accept the mindless concept of evolution, and even denies Christ recognition as Redeemer, as the humanist's creed "We will save ourselves!" boasts.
But all is not lost! Our text assures us that Christ will reclaim His Kingdom: "He shall subdue the people under us, and the nations under our feet. . . . God reigneth over the heathen" (vv. 3, 8). Christ the Creator, the Redeemer, the Heir, has conquered the enemy and soon will assume His rightful throne-"the throne of his holiness" (v. 8), "greatly exalted" (v. 9). Then we shall join the redeemed of the ages, and "shout unto God with the voice of triumph" (v. 1). JDM
The Bright and Morning Star
"I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star." (Revelation 22:16)
The epilogue of Revelation contains many words of comfort to the believer. Our Lord promises, among other things, that "behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me" (v. 12), and "blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city" (v. 14). Likewise, there are many names for God given, such as "the Lord God of the holy prophets" (v. 6), "Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last" (v. 13), and "the root and the offspring of David" (text). This rehearsal of names and deeds provides comfort, but why is Christ called the "bright and morning star"?
The analogy is to the planet Venus, so often seen shining brightly in the early morning. The sight of the planet provides a pledge of the coming day during which the light is brighter and the sight clearer.
Likewise, however beautiful and awe-inspiring our perception is now by the light of our Bright and Morning Star, Jesus Christ, we are promised a more complete view. Although He has "shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ" (2 Corinthians 4:6), and although Christ appeared as "the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person" (Hebrews 1:3), soon we shall see Him "face to face" (1 Corinthians 13:12) and even "be like him; for we shall see him as he is" (1 John 3:2).
Our view now constitutes only the beginning of a clearer sight-a guarantee of the glorious day that has no night, when we shall see the King in all His beauty. There will even be no need of the sun, "for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof" (Revelation 21:23). JDM
Praise from the Creation
"Let the heaven and earth praise him, the seas, and every thing that moveth therein." (Psalm 69:34)
We may not yet understand the full purpose of God in creation, but at least one aspect of that purpose is that all things created should somehow praise their Creator. This theme occurs often in Scripture, especially in the psalms. For example, in addition to the exhortation in our text:
"The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork" (Psalm 19:1).
"Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad; let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof. Let the field be joyful, and all that is therein: then shall all the trees of the wood rejoice before the LORD: for he cometh" (Psalm 96:11-13).
"All thy works shall praise thee, O LORD; and thy saints shall bless thee" (Psalm 145:10).
"Praise ye him, sun and moon: praise him, all ye stars of light. Praise him, ye heavens of heavens, and ye waters that be above the heavens. . . . Praise the LORD from the earth, ye dragons, and all deeps: Fire, and hail; snow, and vapours; stormy wind fulfilling his word: Mountains, and all hills; fruitful trees, and all cedars: Beasts, and all cattle; creeping things, and flying fowl" (Psalm 148:3-4, 7-10).
The Lord Jesus said that if men should refuse to praise Him and "should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out" (Luke 19:40). Yet even though the whole creation-in its beauty, complexity, and providential orderliness-gives continual praise to its Creator, men perversely have "worshipped and served the creature [or more aptly stated, the creation] more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever" (Romans 1:25).
How poignant, therefore, is the final verse of the book of Psalms: "Let every thing that hath breath praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD" (Psalm 150:6). HMM
Suffer Little Children
"But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God." (Luke 18:16)
A widely-read book several decades ago based its title, Suffer Little Children, on this plea of Christ but used the words instead to refer to the terrible harm being suffered by America's little children in its public schools and humanistic social institutions. Not only were they being indoctrinated with evolutionary just-so stories but also with socialistic understanding of the world and its nations and people.
And if things were bad forty and fifty years ago, they are much worse today with the modern promotion of deviant lifestyles and wide use of behavior-modifying "medicines" to control behavior. There are certainly many good Christian teachers and schools, but the overall trend is so bad that many Bible-believing churches and organizations are diligently promoting Christian schools and home schools as a needed means of escape from the deadly influence of public schools on the children.
Worst of all is the deliberate banning of prayer, God, the Bible, and Christ from the schools in a misused devotion to the myth of church/state separation. Instead of "suffering the little children" to come to Christ like He said, most of them do all they can to prevent it.
Those who promote this situation are in grave danger themselves. Jesus warned: "But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea" (Matthew 18:6).
There is a better way, of course. A good school, acting en loco parentis, should seek heartily to "bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord" (Ephesians 6:4). HMM
The Good Fight
"Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses." (1 Timothy 6:12)
Scripture frequently refers to the Christian life and work in athletic or combative terms. When all things are considered, reason compels the Christian to enter into the race and fight.
First, our Commander is worth following. He leads us into battle and stands with us on the front lines receiving the fiercest fire: "Let us run with patience the race. . . . Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross" (Hebrews 12:1-2).
Second, we are well-armed and protected. The "whole armour of God" includes the girdle of "truth," the "breastplate of righteousness," shoes of "the preparation of the gospel of peace," "the shield of faith," "the helmet of salvation," and "the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God" (Ephesians 6:13-17). The warrior's mouth is filled with prayers and bold speech (vv.18-20); his sword has no scabbard, and his back has no armor, for retreat is unthinkable.
The goal of our fight urges us on. We strive to undermine the kingdom of darkness and to fill it with light. Each must battle on to exalt our Leader and to champion His Word. "Consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds" (Hebrews 12:3).
To the victor belongs the spoils. "To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne" (Revelation 3:21). We no longer will be soldiers, but kings; we will trade our battle armor for robes, washed and made "white in the blood of the Lamb" (Revelation 7:14). Our helmet will be replaced by an "incorruptible" crown (1 Corinthians 9:25)-"a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give [us] at that day" (2 Timothy 4:8). JDM
Dealing With Daily Frustrations
LYSA TERKEURST
So what I suggest is that we learn first to pray for the soul from the way the Bible prays for the soul. If we do that, then our prayers will probably be good prayers, and in the process we will also learn about how God acts. Here is the way I pray for my soul. I use these prayers over and over again-for myself and my children and wife and for the staff and the elders and for all the church. This is the meat and potatoes of my prayer life.
The first thing my soul needs is an inclination to God and his word. Without that, nothing else will happen of any value in my life. I must want to know God and read his word and draw near to him. Where does that "want to" come from? It comes from God. So Psalm 119:36 teaches us to pray, "Incline my heart to Your testimonies and not to gain."
Next I need to have the eyes of my heart opened, so that when my inclination leads me to the word I see what is really there and not just my own ideas. Who opens the eyes of the heart? God does. So Psalm 119:18 teaches us to pray, "Open my eyes, that I may behold wonderful things from Your law."
Then I need for my heart to be enlightened with these "wonders." I need to perceive glory in them and not just interesting facts. Who enlightens the heart? God does. So Ephesians 1:18 teaches us to pray "That the eyes of your heart may be enlightened."
Then I am concerned that my heart is fragmented and that parts of it might remain in the dark while other parts are enlightened. So I long for my heart to be united for God. Where does that wholeness and unity come from? From God. So Psalm 86:11 teaches us to pray, "O Lord, I will walk in Your truth; unite my heart to fear Your name."
What I really want from all this engagement with the Word of God and the work of his Spirit in answer to my prayers is that my heart will be satisfied with God and not with the world. Where does that satisfaction come from? It comes from God. So Psalm 90:14 teaches us to pray, "O satisfy us in the morning with Your lovingkindness, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days."
But I don't just want to be happy in my own little private world with God. I want my happiness to be as full as possible for spreading and expanding for others. I want to be strong in joy. This will make me durable in the face of threats or adversity. Where does that strength and durability come from? It comes from God. So Ephesians 3:16 teaches us to pray, "That God would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man."
Finally, I want my strength in Christ to produce good deeds for others so that the glory of God will be seen in my life. Who produces these good deeds? God does. So Colossians 1:10 teaches us to pray, "That [we] will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord . . . bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God."
All this I pray "in Jesus' name," because God gives these things to my soul only because Jesus died for me and removed the wrath of God so that the Father might "freely give me all things" (Romans 8:32).
To remember some of these prayers, I use an acronym-IOUS-almost every day in praying for those I love, asking God to give us an inclination to his Word and not to money or fame or power (Psalm 119:36), and to open our eyes to see wonderful things when we read his Word (Psalm 119:18), and to have hearts united in the fear of God rather than fragmented over a dozen concerns (Psalm 86:11), and to be satisfied in his steadfast love (Psalm 90:14).
Finding Your Sweet Spot
Ruth Soukup
"We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully." Romans 12:6-8 (NIV)
To many people she was simply ordinary. Nothing special. Forgettable.
An "average" student, she didn't play sports, wasn't involved in clubs, was never voted into student council. She never really stood out or commanded attention.
But those people didn't see her quiet drive and determination.
They didn't see how she worked her way through high school, saving enough to pay for community college and beauty school. They didn't see the personal tragedies she endured that inspired her to work harder. They didn't see her consistently pushing herself to be better, learning everything she could about doing hair, fashion, style and running a business.
Although we now live more than 3,000 miles apart, my childhood friend Alysha still inspires me daily.
Today, Alysha owns and operates a successful salon and boutique. Sleek, stylish and full of sparkle, it's appropriately named Bliss. Simply walking through the door makes you feel special.
She is not just good at what she does, she is great.
Alysha and I have been best friends since the sixth grade and I've had a front-row seat to all the times people underestimated her. I've watched her keep doing what she loved, despite her challenges, until she found her sweet spot.
Our sweet spot is that place where our greatest passions and our talents or abilities intersect.
It's that special place where we feel most called, that thing we love, that thing we're great at that makes life worth living.
Just like Alysha, living in the sweet spot means having courage to follow our dreams, take risks and work harder than we ever thought to accomplish our goals.
As our key verse in Romans 12 says, each of us has different gifts. Some excel in leading, while some encourage others or effectively serve in the background, giving, organizing or following through. And while some gifts might appear flashier or more important than others, they're all essential. Your sweet spot is yours alone.
The truth is, all gifts come from God: "There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit is the source of them all. There are different kinds of service, but we serve the same Lord. God works in different ways, but it is the same God who does the work in all of us," (1 Corinthians 12:4-6, NLT).
Finding your sweet spot often means a messy process of finding, then learning how to embrace the God-given talents you already have, rather than those you wish you had. It means discovering what you enjoy and are truly good at, then determining how to merge talent and abilities with the ideas, dreams and pursuits you are most passionate about. And sometimes finding your sweet spot means taking a wrong turn - or even failing along the way.
But despite the messiness of it all, my hope is we become fearless and dare to take the plunge, even when it means risking failure. Philippians 4:13 reminds us: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." (NKJV)
Don't let the fear of falling short deter you from trying. You will make mistakes. You will mess up. You may have to admit defeat. Keep going. Use them as opportunities to discover what doesn't work, but always persevere.
Your sweet spot is there, waiting for you, even if you haven?t quite found it yet, and in the end, it is exactly where you need to be.
Dear Lord, help me discover the gifts and talents You gave me, to find that sweet spot You have reserved for me. To encounter that place where my passion and abilities intersect, because I know that it is there that I can do the work You have called me to do. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
"When the Lord saw that Leah was not loved ." Genesis 29:31a (NIV)
If you've ever felt unnoticed or unnecessary, our biblical sister, Leah, has wonderful news: God looks deep inside our hearts and understands our greatest needs.
When no one else sees, God sees. When no one else cares, God cares.
God noticed that Leah was unloved by those who should have loved her most - her husband, Jacob; her sister, Rachel; her father, Laban. Some of us know the pain of family rejection all too well.
In that ancient time and place, a woman's ability to produce sons was what gave her value in her household and her community. So, God healed Leah's sorrow in the kindest possible way: He "enabled her to conceive, but Rachel remained childless" (Genesis 29:31b).
God wasn't being cruel to Rachel. Her time for childbearing would come. He simply wanted to pour out His favor on unloved Leah first, knowing she would give Him the glory for it.
Leah did just that. She gave birth to a son and named him Reuben - which literally means, "Look, a son!" - because "the Lord has seen my misery" (Genesis 29:32b). Then, like any woman in an unhappy marriage who thinks that if she has a baby, things will get better, Leah said, "Surely my husband will love me now" (Genesis 29:32b).
We hurry to the next verse, hoping to find, "And Jacob turned to Leah and said, 'Sweetheart! Darling!'"
But that's not what comes next. In fact, we don't find any recorded response from Jacob in this passage of Scripture. Not. One. Word.
Across the centuries we can feel Leah's hopes sinking. The Lord mended her broken heart with another son, and Leah said, "Because the LORD heard that I am not loved, he gave me this one too" (Genesis 29:33). Again Leah credits God-not Jacob - for providing this son and names the child Simeon, which means "listening."
God was clearly listening. And Leah was clearly praying. A great example of how to handle disappointment. Rather than whine or fret, pray and wait.
God sees. God hears. And God's timing is always perfect.
God answered Leah's prayers with yet a third son, prompting her to make one more plea for her husband's attention: "Now at last my husband will become attached to me, because I have borne him three sons" (Genesis 29:34). She named the baby Levi, from the Hebrew word for "cleave." Though Jacob had cleaved to her physically in their marriage, Leah wanted more than that; she wanted his love. And still there was no response from Jacob.
When God blessed her womb yet again, something happened inside Leah's heart. Three times she'd turned to a weak man for love. The fourth time she turned to a strong God and said, "This time I will praise the LORD" (Genesis 29:35). So wise, this woman.
When Leah named her fourth son Judah, which sounds like the Hebrew word for "praise," we can almost hear her shouting with joy, "I will praise the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live" (Psalm 146:2, NIV).
For those of us who keep looking for love and ending up discouraged, Leah shows us the path to contentment:
. Praise God for what you do have, instead of blaming God for what you don't have.
. Accept the glorious truth that His abundant love for you is enough.
. Accept the glorious truth that His abundant love for you is enough.
Though we may long for Leah's story to have a traditional happy ending - a happy marriage to a loving husband - in truth she had a triumphant ending: "For it is clear that our Lord Jesus descended from Judah" (Hebrews 7:14a, NIV). Imagine it! Unloved Leah appears in the lineage of Christ. A woman who was seen by God, heard by God, blessed by God and loved by God.
Lord, I am humbled by Leah's example. Help me rest in Your loving care instead of demanding love from others. Give me the strength to praise You, even in my darkest hours, so that You may be glorified. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
"Respect everyone, and love the family of believers. Fear God, and respect the king." 1 Peter 2:17 (NLT)
It was a rainy afternoon. Our youngest son was in middle school and I was walking down the school hallway following a meeting with the vice principal. As I opened my umbrella to ward off the chilly shower, I heard a woman's voice pipe up, "Hello? Excuse me. May I ask you a question?"
I turned to see one of the lunchroom workers walking after me in the hallway.
"Are you Spencer's mother?" she inquired.
"Yes," I turned and answered her. "Is there something wrong?" My heart fretted. I had just left the vice principal's office where my son sat busted for pulling a stunt in class. I was not bursting with parental pride. Now I feared he'd also misbehaved in the lunchroom.
"Oh no. Nothing is wrong at all!" she declared. "I just wanted to tell you how respectful your son is. He never fails to flash a huge smile and thank me when I hand him his food or ask if I am having a good day. And he addresses me as 'ma'am' and calls the custodian 'sir.' Such a fine and respectful son you've raised!"
To say her words thrilled this mama's heart would be an understatement. In fact, it was a little kiss from God that day when this thoughtful school employee pointed out a positive quality she saw in my teenage son's behavior.
Respect is frequently lost in our society. In person - and especially online - snark and sarcasm often rule. Talking down to someone or insulting one another is the new norm. For adults and for kids, respect is often nowhere to be found.
No longer does society at large use terms like "sir" and "ma'am" when speaking to a stranger. Addressing elders with terms of esteem is rare as well. And having respect for authority seems to have gone out of style long ago.
Today's digital world has taken this to a new level with many opportunities to use our words online. It has become commonplace to sling opinions on a screen, whether on social media or while leaving a comment on a blog post. And unfortunately, sometimes these comments and thoughts aren't tucked in an envelope of respect. They are laced with cynicism, mockery or disdain.
However, today's key verse talks about respect. And not just respecting those in authority, like a police officer, a judge, the president or governor. It goes so far as to say that we are to respect everyone.
Everyone.
Does this mean the grumpy neighbors who constantly let their dog run around your yard and occasionally use it as an outhouse? Yes.
Does it include your combative relative who never speaks respectfully to you? Yes.
What about the difficult person on that committee with you, whose personality and behavior get on your very last nerve? Yep. That one, too.
We can learn to speak respectfully no matter the situation. By drawing on the power of the Holy Spirit to temper our tongues and help us weigh our words, we can speak in a polite tone. This doesn't mean we don't speak the truth. It just means we verbalize it in an honorable way.
We can reflect the love of Jesus when we engage in conversations with a calm, collected and civil tone.
Then others might notice - as in the case of the lunchroom lady and my prank-pulling son - that our speech isn't snappy, impolite or rude. Our language is respectful. Our words are honoring.
To those we are talking to . and more importantly, to God.
Father help me think before I speak, making sure my words are respectful; let my tone be tempered and my manner kind. I want to please You and honor others with my speech. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." Colossians 2:6-7 (NIV)
Each year as the New Year arrives, I feel the familiar conflict . make resolutions or avoid them? On one hand, there's the excitement of starting fresh and the hope for better outcomes. Most of the time, however, I don't feel expectancy at all. Instead, I'm overcome by the fear of failure and the "what ifs" of trying again.
This year, I found a principle in Scripture that helps me approach resolutions with anticipation instead of dread. Today's key verses show us how to plan our future with a focus on thankfulness. They help us plan for the future from a past with a solid foundation and a present pattern of growth.
"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." (Colossians 2:6-7, emphasis added)
When I think back over the years, it's amazing to look back at how life changes once we're dedicated to Jesus as Lord. Through mountaintop experiences, the thrill of learning new truths, and the shaping of hardships, we become rooted and strengthened. Jesus builds a foundation in us that can't be shaken, so we can thank Him for the past.
Today, in our present, He calls us to "live in him." With all the demands of life around us, we can struggle to concentrate on living our life in God, but His benefits - peace, guidance, love and forgiveness - are the valuable payoff for our focus. He has given us the precious gift of living in Him, so we're thankful to Him for our present.
As we remember the past and intentionally make Him the most important part of our present, we will be "built up in him." Here's where it gets exciting for the future! The Greek word for "built up" here means "to increase the potential of someone or something, with focus upon the process involved."
It's amazing and true. God created each of us with a well of talent and budding gifts. Scripture says that God has good works created for you in advance (Ephesians 2:10), so plan away for the New Year! Ask God to build you up in 2015, revealing the potential He's embedded in you. But as you look toward the future, don't forget the past or the present - cover it all with a blanket of thankfulness.
This morning I sat in silence watching the first rays of dawn creep into my windows. There was no fanfare or pageantry. It was a humbling moment brimming with deep peace and overwhelming gratitude, so .
I thanked God for my past:
My parents who raised me in a home where we loved God.
All the hard times and bad decisions that have made me see my need for Jesus.
The Sunday school teachers and Bible study leaders who have taught me.
Blessings He poured out along the way: family, jobs I've loved, jobs I've disliked, home.
Then I moved on to simple, present gifts:
The steaming mug in my hands.
A fire warming the room.
My little, red dog snoring on the coach.
Companionship of friends who fully know me and yet love me.
Love and kindness from my husband.
Laughter from my boys.
Grace poured on me by my Creator.
Finally, I thanked God for 2015 with all its possibilities:
For lessons yet to learn.
For dreams yet to be fulfilled.
For growth experiences.
For all the things unknown.
Now it's your turn. Even if 2015 hasn't started out the way you wanted . be thankful. Dream. Plan. Make resolutions built on the foundation of your past and the abiding of your present. I'm anticipating the rest of what God has in store for you in 2015!
Lord, we thank You for this new year and new beginnings, and we also praise You for the present moment. God, use pieces of the past and gifts of the present to build the future You have planned for us. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
The Hope of Peace
Romans 15:4-13Despite man's best efforts, the world's longing for peace remains unfulfilled. Each new generation has high hopes for reconciliation among people and nations but in the end faces disappointment.
One day Christ will return and make everything right. Until then, believers are called to be His ambassadors of peace. However, becoming a Christian does not automatically change us into people who pursue kindness and unity.
At times we're quick-tempered and impatient and find it hard to live in harmony with others. We may have trouble letting go of attitudes or habits that hurt those around us-and occasionally we don't even want to. God knows our true character and has provided the Holy Spirit to transform us into Jesus' likeness. The Spirit opens our minds to understand and apply Scripture. He gives us the power to say no to ungodliness and to replace me-centered thinking with a Christ-centered viewpoint. He patiently produces His fruit in us, which includes love, joy, and peace (Gal. 5:22-23). With His help, we can become peacemakers who work to bring about reconciliation between God and others (Matt. 5:9).
While our world keeps hoping for peace through man's solutions, we know the only source of lasting unity is Jesus Christ.
The Lord wants our hearts to be ruled by His peace (Col. 3:15) and our relationships to be marked by a spirit of oneness. How encouraged other people will be when they realize it's the transforming power of God in our lives that brings about reconciliation in our marriages, families, and churches.
Godly Living in an Ungodly Age
Titus 1
Our Founding Fathers created a governing framework based upon biblical principles. Slowly, we have changed from "one nation under God" to a group of people who no longer want Him to be involved.
Tragically, we've become, in numerous ways, an ungodly nation: many are driven by materialism and power; immorality and rebellion are prevalent; empty philosophy and false doctrine are widely acceptable. Underlying it all is a vocal decision to take God out of the nation's "official business."
Yet even in an unbelieving society, people can, as individuals, follow Jesus. But the world will continually disseminate faulty teachings, so believers must be discerning. Otherwise, erroneous messages can lead Christians to compromise their convictions. Then affections and priorities may change. Don't let the world's clamor make the Spirit's voice less audible. Without His guidance, our minds become vulnerable to lies.
The Word of God is a compass that keeps us headed in the right direction-even in the midst of confusing messages all around. We need to be consistently filled with truth by reading, believing, meditating upon, and applying Scripture. God also tells us to "pray without ceasing" (1 Thess. 5:17). If our minds are focused upon Him, unholy beliefs will not be able to take root.
The Word is our guidebook. We will still face difficulty as we live in this imperfect world-it is a confusing, dark place that entices us but never fulfills our true longings. Yet God's truth will bring confidence and boldness, and His Spirit will direct and strengthen, enabling us to live victoriously.
Godliness
Matthew 9:11-13
There is a common misconception that believers should be perfect. Pretending to have our lives in order, many of us wear happy faces and speak words that sound acceptable. At times we're ashamed to admit our shortcomings, as if they should not exist. Salvation through Jesus, however, doesn't change the fact that sin is present in our life. When we're born again, God forgives us and sees us as righteous. Yet our battle with sin continues till we arrive in heaven.
In fact, striving for perfection actually can be a trap that pulls us away from living a godly life. Functioning in this way is a form of relying on our own capability. Jesus said that He came to heal the spiritually sick because they recognized their weakness. With an awareness of our inadequacy comes the realization of our need for Him.
The world sees successful individuals as powerful and self-sufficient, but Jesus didn't care about these qualities. Instead, He wants people to be aware of their own brokenness. This is the foundation for godliness.
We should accept our neediness and seek God passionately. Doing so allows the following attributes to develop: a hunger for God's Word, faithful service, deepening trust, and decision-making based upon principle rather than preference. Patiently and mercifully, God matures us.
Be careful not to cover up your sins in order to look like a "good Christian." Without recognition and confession of our sinfulness, we are unable to rely fully on God. It is only with this awareness that we can passionately seek Him, obey in His strength, and confess with repentance when we miss the mark.
Jesus Our Intimate Friend
Matthew 26:47-50
I've counseled plenty of folks who argue that they are not worthy of God's love. Of all the passages I could point to that describe the Lord's devotion, today's is the one I think best showcases the unqualified friendship He offers His followers.
As Jesus was praying in the garden of Gethsemane on the night before His crucifixion, Judas Iscariot approached him with a band of men. The betrayer stepped forward and kissed the Lord's cheek. And what was Jesus' response? According to another disciple, Matthew, He called the man "Friend" (Matt. 26:50).
Judas expected Jesus to establish His kingdom on earth and drive the Romans out of Israel-anyone who could calm a storm at sea could easily remove an oppressive government! But Judas's interest in Jesus was more personal and political than spiritual. In fact, John reported that his fellow disciple stole from the money box (12:6). Today the man's name is synonymous with those who betray others for personal gain.
In spite of Judas' greed, blind ambition, and betrayal, Jesus never stopped loving him; He still used the word "friend" to address the one-time disciple. The Lord does not place conditions on His love or reject people who fail to meet certain standards. He simply cares for us as we are.
People cannot earn Jesus Christ's love and friendship. He takes the initiative, reaches out, and draws into fellowship those who are willing. We are not worthy, but we are privileged to live in His love anyway. In the Lord, we find a friend who sticks closer than a brother (Prov. 18:24).
God Is Our Loving Father
Luke 15:11-24
Humanity tends to project its own faulty habits onto God. This is especially true regarding the nature of His love. We think we must barter, plead, or try hard to earn the Lord's favor. But as the prodigal son learned, the Father's love is unconditional.
The wayward son expected his father's love to be diminished. Therefore, he went home hoping for a place among the family servants. Imagine the boy's delight when Dad greeted him with a hug and a celebration. His actions certainly didn't merit an outpouring of affection, but Jesus' parable is all about a Father who doesn't give people what they deserve.
A love based on conduct would keep people guessing, Have I done enough? Instead, God cares for you simply because you're you, and He expects nothing in return. Consider the prodigal's life after his homecoming party. He didn't move into the servants' quarters and get to work. He was reinstated to his place as the second son of a wealthy man, with all of the privilege that entails. In the same way, believers are the Lord's cherished children (2 Cor. 6:18). When God looks at His loved ones, He doesn't focus upon past failures, faults, or sin. He sees the heirs to His kingdom-men and women who love Him and desire to spend eternity in His presence.
No matter how far we may wander from the Lord's perfect will for our lives, we are always welcome back. The Bible teaches that God's love cannot be lost, regardless of sin or poor decisions (though we may have to live with the consequences). Our Father's arms are always open.The Holy City
"And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God." (Revelation 21:2-3)
King of All the Earth
"For God is the King of all the earth: sing ye praises with understanding." (Psalm 47:7)
The Bright and Morning Star
"I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star." (Revelation 22:16)
Praise from the Creation
"Let the heaven and earth praise him, the seas, and every thing that moveth therein." (Psalm 69:34)
"But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God." (Luke 18:16)
The Good Fight
"Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses." (1 Timothy 6:12)
Dealing With Daily Frustrations
LYSA TERKEURST
"But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop." Luke 8:15 (NIV)
I was talking with a customer service agent from an online company I have enjoyed doing business with for years. I was in a hurry to check things off my growing to-do list, and called thinking she could help me with a return. But when I explained I needed to return this certain item, things started to head south with our conversation.
She informed me that my item wasn't on the returnable list. It was actually on the final sale list. I had no clue there was a returnable list and a final sale list. It wasn't posted online or stated in their catalog.
I logically stated my case and felt sure she would see things my way. But she didn't. No matter what I said or explained, she wouldn't budge.
I knew the lady on the other end of the phone was just following procedure, but it made no sense. It wasn't right, and I was frustrated!
And my tone of voice made it clear just how frustrated I was. Honestly, I didn't have the time nor the patience to deal with that hiccup right then.
Later that same day, I was in line at the grocery store behind a man who wanted to use an expired coupon. The check-out gal calmly stated she couldn't honor his coupon. Well, he didn't like that one bit. And he made sure everyone around them knew how much he didn't like this situation.
I stood appalled at his actions.
Until . I started thinking about the fact that I'd acted almost the same way with the customer service agent who refused what I wanted. The conviction wove its way through my heart and made me feel so badly for the way I'd reacted toward that woman.
After my call, she probably moved on to the next frustrated customer. And then the next. And then the next. Suddenly, I felt so sorry for her.
I decided it wasn't her desire to not help me. She was truly just following the orders of the higher-ups at her company. I imagined her packing up her things at the end of another long day and heading home. A home where she had to face her own daily aggravations, frustrations and to-do lists.
That's when it hit me. While on the phone, I never really pictured her as a person. To me, she was just a voice on the other end of the line that was causing me extreme frustration and keeping me from getting other things done.
How might my reaction have been different if I'd stopped to think about her as a woman just like me? What might it be like to be her, to live her life and do her job every day?
I really think God was trying to get my attention to be more aware of my reactions. More aware of handling daily frustrations in a way that reflects a heart that loves the Lord.
In today's key verse, Luke 8:15, Jesus reminds us, "But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop."
I want Jesus' message to fall on a heart that is humble and fertile enough to:
Receive God's Word .
Retain God's instruction and .
Reflect God's character in both my actions and reactions.
Retain God's instruction and .
Reflect God's character in both my actions and reactions.
When I stop to think about this I am challenged. Whether I'm talking with a customer service representative I don't know or interacting with those I do everyday life with, I want to work toward being a woman who displays godly character.
Just like Luke 8:15 encourages, whether I'm having a frustrating conversation or a friendly one, may God's messages of truth have such an impact on me that my heart and my mouth remain noble and good.
Dear Lord, it's easy to honor You with my carefully thought-through actions but sometimes much harder with my reactions. Help me slow down and consider other people's feelings so that Your love and patience will be the spillover from my heart. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
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