When Concern Consumes Me
RENEE SWOPE
We've all experienced or witnessed betrayal at some point. And no example in the Bible illustrates the pain, guilt, and shame caused by that sin more clearly than the story of Judas.
Chosen as one of the twelve, Judas was privileged. John 12:6 says that he was even granted the responsibility of maintaining the disciples' money box. But that same verse reveals an important truth about Judas-he was a thief.
John indicates greed was Judas' weakness. After Mary had anointed the Lord's feet, Judas complained, "Why was this perfume not sold for three hundred denarii and given to poor people?" (v. 5). The following
verse, however, clarifies that he wanted the money only for himself. One can safely assume that if Judas had reached the point of stealing cash from Jesus' supply, then his greed had gone unchecked for some time. That hidden sin was all Satan needed to interfere with his life. And once the Enemy stepped in, the disciple began "seeking a good opportunity" to betray Jesus (Luke 22:6).
First Peter 5:8 says the Devil is like a "roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." And in Judas, Satan found a willing victim. If we're honest with ourselves, each of us has a natural tendency toward sin.
Daily communion with God keeps hidden sins from becoming greater problems. Left unchecked, the "roaring lion" will also come after us, no matter what our weakness may be. Ask the Lord to reveal any sins you need to confess. Deal with them today-don't let sin lead you down the path of Judas.
The God Who Forgives
Matthew 6:9-13
Jesus Christ gave His followers a pattern for prayer that includes seeking forgiveness daily. The invitation to regular repentance is not a means of renewing our salvation, but rather a maintenance plan for our fellowship with the Lord. When we trust Jesus as our Savior, our sins are forgiven forever. The stains from our past, present, and future wrongs are wiped from our record; however, we're a fallen people so we do continue to commit sin.
With the exception of Jesus Christ, no person is perfect. Sin is simply a fact of human life. The Lord's payment for our transgressions means that we can look forward to an eternity spent in God's presence instead of getting the punishment we deserve. On this side of heaven, though, we still have to contend with our tendency to do wrong--and we must also deal with the consequences. The Lord's admonition to seek daily forgiveness is a reminder to confess our sins and turn away from them because we are forgiven.
God's grace is not a license to sin; instead, it's a reason to pursue righteousness. Bad attitudes, thoughtless actions, and unkind speech do not fit who we are as children of light. We're new creatures in Christ, bought for a price and set free to live as partakers of His grace.
Salvation makes a way for us to enter God's presence, while regular confession and repentance keep the pathway well maintained and free of obstruction (1 John 1:9). The so-called "sinner's prayer" need be said only once, but a saint will tap into God's forgiveness every day of his or her life.
The God Who Saves
Ephesians 2:8-9
Recently I was talking with a fellow about his spiritual life. When I asked, "Are you saved?" he answered, "No, but I'm working at it." When I pressed him, he explained that he was making some changes in his life. He had given up smoking and drinking, among other things. I knew that I should help him understand a few important principles, as his only guarantee so far was better health.
What this gentleman needed to realize was that what we do or what we give up for Jesus doesn't amount to much. The Lord isn't looking for people who change a few habits by sheer force of will; He's calling people to surrender themselves to Him. The only action God expects of a "seeker" is to believe in Jesus--that He is who He says, He will do what He says, He has the authority to forgive, and He will equip His people to live a godly life. Because of those convictions, a new Christian is empowered to turn away from his old life--in other words, to repent--and begin the process of becoming "a new creation" (2 Cor. 5:17).
We don't evolve into a saved people by deleting old habits and instituting better religious ones; we are transformed by the saving power of Jesus Christ when we believe in Him.
Since salvation isn't something we earn, no one can boast before God. All of our moral living, good deeds, and strenuous efforts to change bad habits amount to a pile of trash compared to the holiness of Jesus Christ (Isa. 64:6). Only His righteousness can cover our sins and make us right before the Father.
What Is Your True Purpose
1 Samuel 16:6-13
What do you live for each day? A pay raise? Retirement? Then perhaps you've discovered the reality that basing aspirations on getting ahead in this world typically ends in disappointment. People with a misguided sense of direction often wonder why they feel unfulfilled.
Maybe you've already realized a goal of saving for the future or moving up the corporate ladder. You give to charity and volunteer at church, but somehow still feel a sense of insignificance or aimlessness. If so, there is a truth you need to hear: God gives each of us life for a very specific reason: to serve Him. Nobody finds inner peace without reconciling this fact. Our society teaches us that pleasure, prosperity, position, and popularity will make us happy--but living in the service of self always leaves an emptiness no earthly reward can fill.
Besides, worldly philosophy won't stand the test of time. Few of us are going to live even 100 years. So whatever we'll become in this life, we're in the process of becoming that right now. Consider David: he was anointed king long before actually assuming the role (1 Sam. 16:12). He spent many years serving the purpose of God in insignificant places while developing into a great man. As his story shows, discovering God's purpose for your life is the surest path to success.
Our heavenly Father's purpose for our lives comes from His heart of love--which is perfect. None of us can foretell the great things He has in store for us, but we can trust His plan completely. Surrender to Him today and say, "Not my will, Lord, but Yours be done."
Did I Hear God Wrong?
LYSA TERKEURST
In today's world, impatience is all too common a trait. We want food, help, and information fast. Just waiting for the computer to boot up or the "next avail-able agent" to answer our call can cause frustration. But the Lord specializes in slow, steady work. He's more interested in a quality outcome than a speedy process.
Nowhere is this more evident than in the realm of spiritual discernment. When we become Christians, we aren't instantly wise and knowledgeable. It takes a lifetime to grow to maturity. Some believers, however, don't seem to grow up at all. They get older, but their understanding of God's Word never goes very deep.
This lack of godly wisdom is caused by ignorance of the Scriptures, apathy and complacency about spiritual things, and a failure to apply biblical truths. Discernment requires time and effort. You can't simply move through life, thoughtlessly reacting to situations yet never learning from them. Take time to reflect on your responses and observe the consequences of your actions and choices. If you feel convicted by what you notice, let that motivate you to begin a lifelong pursuit of the Lord and His ways. Start reading the Bible regularly. And as you do, ask the Lord to open your heart and mind to understand what He's saying.
But just reading God's Word isn't enough. Without applying what you've read, all you'll have is head knowledge. Obedience trains us to discern good and evil. Through practice, we learn wisdom and develop spiritual maturity. If you'll begin today and patiently persevere, in time discernment will come.
A Dark Sabbath
John 19:31-42
Just as Christ once rested in the stern of a boat through a raging storm, He rested in the tomb as storms raged within His disciples. A day after Jesus' death, fear, doubt, and grief must have cycled endlessly through their minds. Memories of their lives with Him must have played there too: how it felt to stand upon a rolling sea, to feed thousands with a few loaves of bread, or to see Lazarus' burial clothes heaped in the dirt. No doubt their hearts grew sick with confusion as they contemplated these things.
The disciples' feeble faith shouldn't surprise us, because if we're honest, we see it in ourselves. The "little of faith," as Jesus often called them, failed to believe or remember things the Lord said of Himself-that He'd lay down His life and take it up again. Had His followers faithfully held these things in their hearts, that Sabbath day might have been a time of joyful anticipation.
At times in our lives, God may seem absent, but ultimately we know that He will never leave us (Heb. 13:5). And unlike the disciples, we'll never experience the dark prospect of a failed Savior. But many times we forget the promises of God. In the face of uncertainty, how frequently do we turn to a "do-it-yourself" Christianity to fix our problems?
Too often we look no further than our own solutions, when what we need is the wonder-working power of Christ's resurrection and a posture of humility as we wait on Him. If we are willing to wait through the darkness of night, we can rest in knowing that morning will surely come.
Elioenai
"And the sons of Neariah; Elioenai, and Hezekiah, and Azrikam, three." (1 Chronicles 3:23)
Elioenai's name is in a long list of names in the book of Chronicles. In fact, it is significant that the Bible contains the proper names of more individuals than can be found in all the other books of antiquity put together-strong evidence of its historical authenticity. These were real names of real people, and each would, no doubt, have a fascinating story to tell if he could. The ancient Israelites were very conscious of their divine calling as God's chosen people; family relationships and genealogical records were highly valued.
Godly parents were very conscious that "children are an heritage of the LORD" (Psalm 127:3) and commonly gave each of them a name with some special spiritual meaning. Neariah, whose name meant "servant of the LORD," was a distant descendant of David, and his firstborn son was Elioenai. This was a testimony of parental faith, for it means "turning your eyes to the mighty God."
Very little else is known about Elioenai (except the names of his two brothers and seven sons), but the lengthy genealogies break off in the generation of his sons, indicating probably that his parents were in the generation taken captive to Babylon. It is fascinating to wonder why they gave Elioenai his name and to imagine how it may have influenced the life and spiritual growth of Elioenai himself.
In any case, it is a beautiful and meaningful name, and we can hope that his character developed accordingly. For, if so, believers will be able to meet him in heaven someday.
His name still bears an urgent message to us today: "Turn your eyes upon Jesus; turn to the mighty God, your Creator and Savior!" We should also remember the example of the godly parents in ancient times, in giving our children names that will inspire them and be a testimony to others. HMM
Threescore Years and Ten
"The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labor and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away." (Psalm 90:10)
When Moses wrote these words near the end of his life, he was 120 years old (Deuteronomy 34:7), but all the rest of the people of Israel (except Caleb and Joshua) who had been over 20 at the beginning of the 40-year wilderness wanderings, had died there (Numbers 14:28-34), and so there were no others over 60 years old.
In former days men had lived much longer. Adam died at 930 and Noah at 950, but then Shem only lived to 600, and Abraham died at 175 years of age. Thus, the normal lifespan by Moses' time was down to 70 or 80 years, and he prophesied that this would continue.
It is remarkable that, with all the increase in medical knowledge, this figure has stayed about the same, and there seems to be little the gerontologists can do to increase it.
Furthermore, the latter years are largely "labor and sorrow," just as God told Adam when his sin brought God's curse on the earth (Genesis 3:17-20). No matter how much we try to prolong our lives, we are "soon cut off."
But then, we "fly away"! The soul/spirit complex of the Christian believer, released from its weary body, flies away to be with the Lord. Those left behind may sorrow, but "to depart, and to be with Christ . . . is far better." The Christian may confidently say with Paul: "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain" (Philippians 1:23, 21). In the meantime, as our time grows shorter, it is more important than ever that we "walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time" (Colossians 4:5). "So teach us to number our days," prayed Moses (and so should we), "that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom" (Psalm 90:12). HMM
Christ Our Substitute
"So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation." (Hebrews 9:28)
There are two specific references in the New Testament to Christ "bearing" our sins as He died on the cross. In addition to our text above, the other is 1 Peter 2:24: "Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree."
However, the same word (Greek anaphero) is also used with a similar thrust in Hebrews 7:27, where it is translated "offer up": "Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, when he offered up himself."
When Christ died, He died as a substitutionary sacrifice, "offering up" our sins for judgment and punishment by a holy God, as He simultaneously "offered up" Himself as the One who would submit to that judgment and bear that punishment. He was able to do this because He was both the infinite Creator and the one sinless man, who needed not to offer a sacrifice for His own sins. He was willing to do this because He loved us and wanted to save us.
This doctrine of substitutionary sacrifice is central to the gospel of salvation, and therefore precious to the saint. But its central importance likewise means that it is profoundly offensive to the natural man. Many acclaim Him as a great martyr or a great teacher, but deny either His deity or His humanity, and certainly deny the universal efficacy of His shed blood in substitutionary sacrifice for the sin of a lost world.
Nevertheless, He did bear the sins of "the many," and He did completely settle our account with God. In both Hebrews 7:27 and 9:28 (as cited above), the word "once" means, literally, "once for all." He did have to die once-but only once-as our sin-bearing substitute. Thus, when He comes again, it will be "without sin unto salvation." HMM
Pastors and Teachers
"And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers." (Ephesians 4:11)
The four or five specific spiritual gifts mentioned by Paul in this passage are said to have been given "for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ" (Ephesians 4:12). And all of this is for the ultimate goal that "we . . . speaking the truth in love, may grow up into [Christ] in all things" (Ephesians 4:14-15).
The teaching gift is of particular importance in attaining this goal. The gift of serving as an apostle was given only to the twelve plus a few others (e.g., Paul) who had actually seen the resurrected Christ (Acts 1:21-22; 1 Corinthians 9:1); the last of these was John. The gift of real prophets who could convey God's revelations to men was necessary in that first century before the New Testament was written, but that also has apparently ceased (1 Corinthians 13:8), though there are still many false prophets (Matthew 24:11).
The gifts of evangelists and pastors will continue as long as there continue to be lost people who need to be won and new believers who need to be led (the word "pastor" actually means "shepherd" and is so translated in all its other occurrences). The other two lists of spiritual gifts do not mention either evangelists or pastors, but all three do mention teachers (Romans 12:7; 1 Corinthians 12:28). Many pastors also have the gift of teaching, but the other two lists indicate that teaching is a gift for many others as well.
In fact, Christ's great commission included teaching people "to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you" (Matthew 28:20). And since He in the beginning had created "all things" and is now "upholding all things" (Colossians 1:16; Hebrews 1:3), this teaching could well include all true education, in every subject. HMM
Fear Not, Little Flock
"But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you." (Luke 12:31)
In these days of financial worries and rampant materialism, it does us good to reflect on Christ's teaching concerning our priorities. In this passage, He was teaching His disciples not to be troubled over temporal things (v. 22), but to rest in the fact that He will supply our needs. "If then God so clothe the grass, which is to day in the field, and to morrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith?" (v. 28). We are not to have our mind set on material things (v. 29), neither are we to be "of doubtful mind" wavering between hope and fear of the future.
We are to be different. We are children of the King and are in His care. The "nations of the world seek after" (v. 30) these things. Our Father knows that we have need of certain things, and since He loves us and has our best interests at heart, we have nothing to "fear" and can be assured that "all these things shall be added unto [us]" (v. 31).
But more is involved. It is not enough simply to avoid improper fixation on the things of the world; we are to seek rather "the Kingdom of God"; we are to be about His business. His priorities should be our priorities. We must strive to know Him and His Word so well that we naturally conform our actions to His desires. If we do so, He not only will take pleasure in supplying our physical needs (v. 31), but also "it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom" (v. 32).
It is our privilege to participate in His work on Earth as He enables. Our part may be to give: "Sell [what you] have, and give alms," thereby storing up "a treasure in the heavens that faileth not" (v. 33), or to pray, "for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also" (v. 34). If our primary desire is to enhance the work of the Kingdom, then He will give us that desire, and we will see fruit which lasts for eternity. JDM
Headstone of the Corner
"The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner." (Psalm 118:22)
That this enigmatic verse is really a Messianic prophecy is evident from the fact that Christ Himself applied it thus. "Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner?" (Matthew 21:42). The Jewish leaders had refused Him as their Messiah, but the day would come when they would have to confess their sad mistake.
Later, addressing them concerning "Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead," the apostle Peter said: "This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner" (Acts 4:10-11).
This analogy evidently refers back to the building of Solomon's great temple a thousand years earlier. At that time, each of the great stones for its beautiful walls was "made ready before it was brought thither: so that there was neither hammer nor axe nor any tool of iron heard in the house, while it was in building" (1 Kings 6:7). According to tradition, there was one stone which didn't fit with the others, so the builders moved it out of the way. At last, when the temple tower was almost complete, they found they were missing the pinnacle stone which would cap all the rest. Finally they realized that the stone they had rejected had been shaped to be the head stone at the topmost corner of the tower.
Peter referred to it again in his epistle: "Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: . . . Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner, and a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient"
(1 Peter 2:6-8). HMM
A Time to Sleep
"And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison." (Acts 12:6)
Here is an amazing thing. The apostle Peter is in prison, bound with chains, heavily guarded, probably awaiting execution (his close friend James already had been put to death by Herod), and "prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him" (Acts 12:5).
Yet, here he is, fast asleep! He had been imprisoned at least once before for preaching the gospel, and the Lord had miraculously delivered him then (Acts 5:17-19), so why should he be fearful now? The Lord was still in control, and there was nothing Peter himself could do about the situation, so he simply went to sleep. There are, of course, many situations where a Christian needs to stay alert and watchful. But there are also times when he has done all he can do, and there is nothing to be accomplished by further worrying, so he must leave it in the Lord's hands.
In Peter's case, he was sleeping so soundly that when an angel from God came to deliver him from his "impossible" circumstance, the angel had to smite him on the side (v. 7) to awaken him! In fact, he was still so sleepy that he did not really "come to himself" (v. 11) until the angel left him out on the street alone.
Then, of course, Peter rushed back to the house of Mark's mother, where the church was praying for him (v. 12), to tell them of the amazing answer to their prayers. As with Peter, there are times when we must simply "stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD" (Exodus 14:13), "so that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me" (Hebrews 13:6). HMM
RENEE SWOPE
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28 (NIV)
As we drove home from a weekend away in the mountains, I felt a heavy sense of dread and sadness. Laying my head back on my seat, I told my husband, JJ, "I don't want to go home."
The stress and strain of countless commitments at home and at work were taking a toll on me. If only I could return to that little mountain town where no one knew me or needed me.
JJ asked some clarifying questions, and then he suggested I make a list of everything on my plate so I could ask God what needed to be cut back.
Honestly, at first I resented the fact that he was adding one more thing "to do" on my already long list of things I'd never get done.
But later that week I took his advice and wrote out all my commitments and concerns. I made a list of deadlines and dates on my calendar with every appointment, event, conference call and meeting I could think of for the next six months.
And I prayed: Please God, show me where I need to make changes.
I assumed the Holy Spirit would suggest adjustments in my schedule, but that's not what happened. God didn't tell me to make cut backs at work or in ministry. He didn't show me our family had too many activities. He didn't challenge me to take a sabbatical, although I was hoping He would.
Jesus showed me it was worry - not my workload - that was making me weary.
You see, during the weeks leading up to my "meltdown," I let my thoughts dwell on the possible negative outcome of several different circumstances and decisions, all at the same time. And without realizing it, I had spent as much time thinking and worrying about concerns, commitments, circumstances and deadlines as I did working on them.
It was not only how I spent my time, but how I spent my thoughts that left me depleted. It wasn't until I brought it all to God, and wrote it all out, that I recognized what was happening.
Instead of escaping to the mountains where no one knows us or needs us, in today's key verse from Matthew 11:28 above, Jesus invites us to come to Him so He can give us:
Rest for our weary hearts and minds.
"Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust'" (Psalm 91:1-2, NIV).
"Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust'" (Psalm 91:1-2, NIV).
Freedom from the captivity of our concerns.
"'Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,' declares the LORD, 'and will bring you back from captivity'" (Jeremiah 29:12-14a, NIV).
"'Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,' declares the LORD, 'and will bring you back from captivity'" (Jeremiah 29:12-14a, NIV).
Maybe there are worries making you weary. Do you hear Jesus gently inviting you to come to Him, seeking and trusting that His heart is big enough to care and strong enough to carry all that concerns you?
Dear Lord, when concerns consume me, help me remember You are there inviting me to come to You and talk about all I'm thinking and doing. Show me if my workload or my worries are making me weary and help me trust You more with both. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
"But while Joseph was there in the prison, the LORD was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden." Genesis 39:20b-21 (NIV)
When I was a little girl growing up in Barbados with my grandmother, I loved to watch her make sausage.
First, she would take big chunks of meat and slowly squeeze them into a machine known as a sausage stuffer. Before long, the meat would break down and come out the other side all gushy and floppy.
I used to feel so sorry for that meat.
Next my grandmother would add zesty spices and meticulously squish the meat into encasements. And you know what happened? Some of the best sausage you can imagine was formed. It had a wonderful flavor and a long shelf life.
As you can see, sausage making is quite the process! But the process had a purpose.
Have you ever felt like that sausage? I have.
The process of being squeezed and uncomfortable can break us down, making us feel helpless, alone and sometimes even good for nothing.
We can question, God, where are You? Or, Let's hurry this discomfort along, OK? (I'm famous for that!) Or even wonder, God, I thought You loved me. What did I do wrong?
Let me remind you of something, friend. Being squeezed by outside pressure doesn't indicate God's rejection, abandonment or that He made a mistake. Sometimes in His great sovereignty and love, God allows for our character to be refined. God reminded me of this recently when I was studying the life of Joseph.
You may remember Joseph and his coat of many colors. As a teenager, Joseph had big dreams; however, a series of unfortunate events seemed to circumvent those aspirations. He faced difficult and disappointing times - more than once - and was even sold into slavery by his very own brothers.
Can you imagine going from favored child to slave? I wouldn't have had a very good attitude about that. "I'm supposed to mop this floor? Don't you know I watched people mop the floor of my house?" Dear God, get me out of this mess!
But not Joseph.
Time and time again Joseph's plans went differently than expected, yet he ultimately chose to follow God every step of the way. Regardless of outside pressures and demands - slavery, slander, abandonment or imprisonment - Joseph chose to be excellent. The Bible tells us he advanced because of his positive attitude, and he experienced God's kindness and favor in the midst of struggles and disappointments.
In our key verse, Genesis 39:21 tells us, "The LORD was with him; He showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden."
Let's be honest. The refining process isn't easy or comfortable. Prison was a dark place, a place where Joseph really didn't want to be . a place where he saw no way out.
But throughout Joseph's story, God reminds us, very diligently, that no matter how awful and appalling the circumstances, He was still with Joseph.
Want to hear some good news?
He's still with us, too.
So, friend, if you feel like my grandmother's sausage, squeezed and broken down, please remember, our God has great purpose in His refining process. He uses whatever He can to form the character He desires for us, His dearly loved kids.
In many ways God works like my grandmother - squeezing and squishing until there's nowhere else to turn but up. And when God adds the fruit of the Spirit to our lives, then encases us in the shell of holiness, purity and sound character, we too will have a longer shelf life . a life that glorifies Him.
Dear Lord, sometimes my days are hard and I feel squeezed in every way. Thank You for the reminder that You will never leave my side, even when it's uncomfortable. Please help me to experience Your kindness today in a fresh new way. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
"Then he said to his disciples, 'The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.'" Matthew 9:37-38 (NIV)
Standing on the outside looking in hurts. So many times I've looked at others on the "inside," hoping someone would notice and invite me in.
I still remember standing on the sidelines in 7th grade, while the "fast" kids played speedaway. Somehow the teams always got filled before I could get on one.
I've stood on the sidelines of other sports and music tryouts, watching the real athletes get chosen and the highly talented musicians get the parts. I've even stood on the sidelines watching friends hang out together, wishing I'd been invited.
Perhaps the most difficult sideline times are when I've looked at my personal gifts and talents and believed no one wanted - or needed - what I had to offer.
Feeling left out stinks. But feeling like there's no room left for us in our careers or callings can be downright scary. What if all the good spots are already taken? Then what?
For years I struggled, fearing what I had to offer just wasn't good enough. All these fears and questions collided when I sensed God was calling me to write.
I held out my meager gift in faith, doubting anything would ever really come of it. After all, there were so many really talented authors already. And they were much better than I was at connecting with important people and marketing themselves. For heaven's sake, I consistently show up at conferences without my business card!
Believing all the spots were already taken by much more qualified people, made me want to quit before I'd even started.
But then God gave me a picture of what His kingdom is really like. Previously, I had this image of a slice of "pie" that was reserved for people with my calling, and only the best got in.
But God showed me He isn't in the business of dividing a sliver of opportunity among His children: He's in the business of making a bigger pie!
What hope this has planted in my heart. There is room for me! And more than enough of it.
When we answer God's call on our lives, there is unlimited opportunity to serve Him. Whether it's teaching, dancing, singing, serving, leading, organizing, public speaking or writing, there is room for each of us to do His Kingdom work.
God isn't limited by market trends or economic downturns. Nothing is too hard for Him. So if He's called you, there is room for you, too.
Satan wants us to believe opportunities are scarce or that we're not really necessary in God's plans. He'd much rather have us allow the sense of competition to simmer so we never truly celebrate each other's successes.
Or better yet, have us fight amongst ourselves, scratching and clawing to climb higher on the ladder of success by stepping on each other.
When we realize there is more than enough room, and that we are all invited to "play," our hearts should change. Rather than worry about our place and position, we should lace our fingers together, offering a firm place to step, and give our sisters and brothers a boost.
Jesus spoke these words to His disciples in Matthew 9:37-38, "Then he said to his disciples, 'The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.'"
In this verse, Jesus encourages us to pray for more people to step up and serve Him.
Can you imagine the world acting like this? What a radical way to think. Rather than worrying if there's a place for me to serve God with my specific gifts and talents, I should be praying for more women and men to start doing exactly what I'm called to do. And then do whatever I can to help them succeed.
I'm so thankful God changed my heart. It frees me to fully be myself and truly celebrate others' successes.
Jesus said, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few." So . what's stopping you? Come join me in the harvest. There's lots of room!
Heavenly Father, thank You for creating me just as I am and calling me to serve You with my gifts and talents. I believe You have a place for me and accept Your invitation. Please call more of our sisters and brothers to serve You in the harvest. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
"A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones." Proverbs 14:30 (NIV)
I was a member of a professional association for just two weeks when I attended their national convention. Since my name badge didn't sport a single special ribbon, people barely glanced at me.
Alone in my hotel room, I ended each day in tears, feeling inadequate and overwhelmed. I told myself I wasn't envious. Simply, uh . discouraged.
Years passed, and doors began to swing open. Ribbons dangled from my name badge, and people smiled in my direction.
Soon I found myself dealing with a new set of feelings. How come she's moving ahead faster than I am, Lord? Why did they honor her instead of me? I wasn't jealous, of course. Merely, uh . competitive.
The awful truth revealed itself one rainy morning when I received an announcement from a colleague who'd been blessed with an opportunity I was convinced should have been mine. I tossed her letter across the room in an angry huff. "It's not fair, Lord!"
His response was swift. "Have I called you to succeed or to surrender, Liz?"
Groan. Clearly, jealousy and envy were alive and well in my jade-green heart. When I reached out to my writing and speaking sisters - women who love and serve the Lord - I discovered they, too, wrestled with this issue. One said, "I understand competition in the secular marketplace. But I grieve over it in the body of Christ. What are we doing, setting one person's work above another, if not absorbing the world's way of doing things?"
Her words echo the Apostle Paul's: " . For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere humans?" (1 Corinthians 3:3b, NIV). Sadly, we are.
Today's verse reminds us that envy takes a toll: "A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones" (Proverbs 14:30). For all of us who struggle, here's the way out:
Confess. Healing begins when we acknowledge that envy is a sin: "But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth" (James 3:14, NIV). Humble admission is the single best antidote for prideful ambition.
Avoid comparison. Consider the words of Jesus, when Peter fretted over John's place in Jesus' ministry, and asked, "'Lord, what about him?' Jesus answered, ' . what is that to you? You must follow me'" (John 21:21b, 22b, NIV).
Rejoice. Feeling overlooked? Look up and celebrate with others. Send an email or text on the spot, and chase away those negative feelings. "Rejoice with those who rejoice" (Romans 12:15a, NIV).
Be patient. Many a career or ministry has collapsed under too much, too soon. Embrace the tasks you've been given, rather than longing for something bigger, better or faster. Success isn't money or fame - it's love for one another. By definition, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud" (1 Corinthians 13:4, NIV).
Befriend your rival. As one of our sisters explained, "A woman was brought in on a fast track executive management program at my corporation. At our first meeting, I thought, 'Well, here's my rival.' Then I heard God say, 'She is smart, energetic and sharp - just like you. You could become best buddies.'" And, they did.
Count the cost. Behind every successful woman is a host of sacrifices we never see. The truth? We're seldom jealous of all the work a person does - just the outcome. Whether building a tower or building a career, the Bible cautions us, " . Won't you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money" - or time or energy - "to complete it" (Luke 14:28b, NIV).
Lean on the Lord. He stands ready, willing and able to overcome our weaknesses through the power of His Spirit. "Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always" (1 Chronicles 16:11, NIV).
Heavenly Father, we know envy and jealousy are no match for Your mercy and grace. Forgive us when we grumble over how You bless others, and help us be grateful for all the ways You have kindly blessed us. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Prepared for Betrayal
Luke 22:1-13We've all experienced or witnessed betrayal at some point. And no example in the Bible illustrates the pain, guilt, and shame caused by that sin more clearly than the story of Judas.
Chosen as one of the twelve, Judas was privileged. John 12:6 says that he was even granted the responsibility of maintaining the disciples' money box. But that same verse reveals an important truth about Judas-he was a thief.
John indicates greed was Judas' weakness. After Mary had anointed the Lord's feet, Judas complained, "Why was this perfume not sold for three hundred denarii and given to poor people?" (v. 5). The following
verse, however, clarifies that he wanted the money only for himself. One can safely assume that if Judas had reached the point of stealing cash from Jesus' supply, then his greed had gone unchecked for some time. That hidden sin was all Satan needed to interfere with his life. And once the Enemy stepped in, the disciple began "seeking a good opportunity" to betray Jesus (Luke 22:6).
First Peter 5:8 says the Devil is like a "roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." And in Judas, Satan found a willing victim. If we're honest with ourselves, each of us has a natural tendency toward sin.
Daily communion with God keeps hidden sins from becoming greater problems. Left unchecked, the "roaring lion" will also come after us, no matter what our weakness may be. Ask the Lord to reveal any sins you need to confess. Deal with them today-don't let sin lead you down the path of Judas.
The God Who Forgives
Matthew 6:9-13
Jesus Christ gave His followers a pattern for prayer that includes seeking forgiveness daily. The invitation to regular repentance is not a means of renewing our salvation, but rather a maintenance plan for our fellowship with the Lord. When we trust Jesus as our Savior, our sins are forgiven forever. The stains from our past, present, and future wrongs are wiped from our record; however, we're a fallen people so we do continue to commit sin.
With the exception of Jesus Christ, no person is perfect. Sin is simply a fact of human life. The Lord's payment for our transgressions means that we can look forward to an eternity spent in God's presence instead of getting the punishment we deserve. On this side of heaven, though, we still have to contend with our tendency to do wrong--and we must also deal with the consequences. The Lord's admonition to seek daily forgiveness is a reminder to confess our sins and turn away from them because we are forgiven.
God's grace is not a license to sin; instead, it's a reason to pursue righteousness. Bad attitudes, thoughtless actions, and unkind speech do not fit who we are as children of light. We're new creatures in Christ, bought for a price and set free to live as partakers of His grace.
Salvation makes a way for us to enter God's presence, while regular confession and repentance keep the pathway well maintained and free of obstruction (1 John 1:9). The so-called "sinner's prayer" need be said only once, but a saint will tap into God's forgiveness every day of his or her life.
The God Who Saves
Ephesians 2:8-9
Recently I was talking with a fellow about his spiritual life. When I asked, "Are you saved?" he answered, "No, but I'm working at it." When I pressed him, he explained that he was making some changes in his life. He had given up smoking and drinking, among other things. I knew that I should help him understand a few important principles, as his only guarantee so far was better health.
What this gentleman needed to realize was that what we do or what we give up for Jesus doesn't amount to much. The Lord isn't looking for people who change a few habits by sheer force of will; He's calling people to surrender themselves to Him. The only action God expects of a "seeker" is to believe in Jesus--that He is who He says, He will do what He says, He has the authority to forgive, and He will equip His people to live a godly life. Because of those convictions, a new Christian is empowered to turn away from his old life--in other words, to repent--and begin the process of becoming "a new creation" (2 Cor. 5:17).
We don't evolve into a saved people by deleting old habits and instituting better religious ones; we are transformed by the saving power of Jesus Christ when we believe in Him.
Since salvation isn't something we earn, no one can boast before God. All of our moral living, good deeds, and strenuous efforts to change bad habits amount to a pile of trash compared to the holiness of Jesus Christ (Isa. 64:6). Only His righteousness can cover our sins and make us right before the Father.
What Is Your True Purpose
1 Samuel 16:6-13
What do you live for each day? A pay raise? Retirement? Then perhaps you've discovered the reality that basing aspirations on getting ahead in this world typically ends in disappointment. People with a misguided sense of direction often wonder why they feel unfulfilled.
Maybe you've already realized a goal of saving for the future or moving up the corporate ladder. You give to charity and volunteer at church, but somehow still feel a sense of insignificance or aimlessness. If so, there is a truth you need to hear: God gives each of us life for a very specific reason: to serve Him. Nobody finds inner peace without reconciling this fact. Our society teaches us that pleasure, prosperity, position, and popularity will make us happy--but living in the service of self always leaves an emptiness no earthly reward can fill.
Besides, worldly philosophy won't stand the test of time. Few of us are going to live even 100 years. So whatever we'll become in this life, we're in the process of becoming that right now. Consider David: he was anointed king long before actually assuming the role (1 Sam. 16:12). He spent many years serving the purpose of God in insignificant places while developing into a great man. As his story shows, discovering God's purpose for your life is the surest path to success.
Our heavenly Father's purpose for our lives comes from His heart of love--which is perfect. None of us can foretell the great things He has in store for us, but we can trust His plan completely. Surrender to Him today and say, "Not my will, Lord, but Yours be done."
Did I Hear God Wrong?
LYSA TERKEURST
"For we live by faith, not by sight." 2 Corinthians 5:7 (NIV)
Have you ever felt God calling you to step out in faith, only to find yourself wondering if you heard Him wrong?
I understand. Thoughts of doubt crossed my mind daily when I began to listen to the promptings on my heart to write.
The International Christian Retail Show is a big book convention where publishers, authors, agents, media and bookstore owners all gather to talk shop. Books are pitched. Books are sold. Books are talked about a lot!
I went to this conference years ago when I was a wannabe writer with a book proposal and a dream. Recently, as I signed pre-release copies of my new book, two thoughts went through my mind.
First . thank You Jesus, that people actually came to my book signing. Because there's nothing quite like standing there with a big stack of free promotion books, a permanent marker and not a soul interested.
So when people actually came, I just wanted to hug every single one of them. Seriously. And if I had lots of money, I would've bought them all a steak dinner. I'm not kidding.
The second thought was . look for those desperate for your encouragement.
Many who came through my book signing line were interested in writing a book. I remember being there.
I know what it feels like to walk around with a tote bag full of book proposals and a heart full of nervous hope.
I know what it feels like to consciously choose to live every day "by faith, not by sight" like our key verse 2 Corinthians 5:7 instructs. Honestly, it's hard to hold on to God's promises when all that's staring back at you is a pile of rejection letters from publishers.
That calling we once felt so strongly starts to feel more like a fairytale than a future reality.
So, I felt the weight of responsibility to give them the encouragement I so desperately needed when I was in their shoes.
Maybe you are there right now, looking to actively pursue your dreams or the things God has called you to. But whether it's the hope of being an author or another dream you have bumping around in your heart, here's what I've learned:
Rejection from people doesn't mean rejection from God.
If God has gifted you to write, write! You don't need a book deal to have an impact with your writing. The same is true with other dreams. If you're called to sing, create, teach, paint, develop - use your gifts right where you are to bless others.
Most overnight success stories are years in the making.
Value the daily discipline of small steps of faith, hard work, honing your craft and putting in time learning and developing. Take classes. Be mentored. Push through those moments you want to slack off. And do it over and over, year after year.
Be a blessing to others.
Don't keep your work to yourself. Find people who could be blessed with your work. I love to write. But what I love more than writing is seeing my writing help other people. That's where I find the encouragement to push through the hard times.
Expect opposition.
The challenges and disappointments and setbacks are all part of it. And honestly, these hard times serve a great purpose. I've learned much more from my failures in writing than my successes. Use these lessons . don't waste them by giving up too soon. And remember to glorify Him whether it's a struggle or a success. God uses all things for good.
Look for the small open doors right in front of you.
I always scratch my head when I meet people who tell me they want to write and speak but aren't willing to teach a small Bible study first. If God is calling you to do something, He'll have a door open in front of you. But it might be a small door. Look for the small door and walk through it.
Actually . dance through that door with great joy because He will always do great things with people willing to be faithful in the small!
Dear Lord, I'm choosing to live by faith, not by sight. I believe You have amazing plans for my life, and I want to be obedient to You through it all. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Trained to Discern
Hebrews 5:11-14In today's world, impatience is all too common a trait. We want food, help, and information fast. Just waiting for the computer to boot up or the "next avail-able agent" to answer our call can cause frustration. But the Lord specializes in slow, steady work. He's more interested in a quality outcome than a speedy process.
Nowhere is this more evident than in the realm of spiritual discernment. When we become Christians, we aren't instantly wise and knowledgeable. It takes a lifetime to grow to maturity. Some believers, however, don't seem to grow up at all. They get older, but their understanding of God's Word never goes very deep.
This lack of godly wisdom is caused by ignorance of the Scriptures, apathy and complacency about spiritual things, and a failure to apply biblical truths. Discernment requires time and effort. You can't simply move through life, thoughtlessly reacting to situations yet never learning from them. Take time to reflect on your responses and observe the consequences of your actions and choices. If you feel convicted by what you notice, let that motivate you to begin a lifelong pursuit of the Lord and His ways. Start reading the Bible regularly. And as you do, ask the Lord to open your heart and mind to understand what He's saying.
But just reading God's Word isn't enough. Without applying what you've read, all you'll have is head knowledge. Obedience trains us to discern good and evil. Through practice, we learn wisdom and develop spiritual maturity. If you'll begin today and patiently persevere, in time discernment will come.
A Dark Sabbath
John 19:31-42
Just as Christ once rested in the stern of a boat through a raging storm, He rested in the tomb as storms raged within His disciples. A day after Jesus' death, fear, doubt, and grief must have cycled endlessly through their minds. Memories of their lives with Him must have played there too: how it felt to stand upon a rolling sea, to feed thousands with a few loaves of bread, or to see Lazarus' burial clothes heaped in the dirt. No doubt their hearts grew sick with confusion as they contemplated these things.
The disciples' feeble faith shouldn't surprise us, because if we're honest, we see it in ourselves. The "little of faith," as Jesus often called them, failed to believe or remember things the Lord said of Himself-that He'd lay down His life and take it up again. Had His followers faithfully held these things in their hearts, that Sabbath day might have been a time of joyful anticipation.
At times in our lives, God may seem absent, but ultimately we know that He will never leave us (Heb. 13:5). And unlike the disciples, we'll never experience the dark prospect of a failed Savior. But many times we forget the promises of God. In the face of uncertainty, how frequently do we turn to a "do-it-yourself" Christianity to fix our problems?
Too often we look no further than our own solutions, when what we need is the wonder-working power of Christ's resurrection and a posture of humility as we wait on Him. If we are willing to wait through the darkness of night, we can rest in knowing that morning will surely come.
| Who Shall Let It? "Yea, before the day was I am he; and there is none that can deliver out of my hand: I will work, and who shall let it?" (Isaiah 43:13) |
"And the sons of Neariah; Elioenai, and Hezekiah, and Azrikam, three." (1 Chronicles 3:23)
Threescore Years and Ten
"The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labor and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away." (Psalm 90:10)
Christ Our Substitute
"So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation." (Hebrews 9:28)
Pastors and Teachers
"And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers." (Ephesians 4:11)
Fear Not, Little Flock
"But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you." (Luke 12:31)
Headstone of the Corner
"The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner." (Psalm 118:22)
(1 Peter 2:6-8). HMM
A Time to Sleep
"And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison." (Acts 12:6)
BE SURE TO CHECK OUT MY ALL NEW PROPHECY AND CREATION DESIGN WEBSITES. THERE IS A LOT TO SEE AND DO..........
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