Pure Joy of Embracing Trials and Testing?

This morning I felt like revisiting a reflection I had about 10 years ago, that dealt with seasons of trials and difficulty.  It seemed very timely of late, so I have revisited it and updated it slightly.  It originally was posted June 29, 2015. 

I am reading from the letter of James.  I am always challenged when reading his letter, for he is very practical and has a very specific perspective.  I am thinking about the following verses - James 1:2-8 NIV:

[2] "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, [3] because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. [4] Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. [5] If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. [6] But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. [7] That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. [8] Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do."

First, his opening sentence is one that I just don't like to read.  I would like to be instantly mature and complete, and not go through any process of growing, for that is really what James is talking about here, a maturation process.  The testing and perseverance produce maturity and completeness and that is what happens when we grow naturally.  We see this process used in schools, educational programs and training of all sorts. The same process is used by the Lord to grow us, and while we generally think of trials as bad, I think we could easily replace trials with experiences or testing and have exactly the same meaning.   We can be tested by good things as well as by bad, especially as it relates to our faith and relationship with the Lord.

There is plenty of teaching out there that associates experiencing good things with God's approval, and bad things with God's punishment, but here James takes a different approach that is more helpful and healthy.  He effectively says we should embrace trials of many kinds because they bring about our maturation, which is good for our overall health and well-being, and our faith.  The point is that God uses many things to enable us to grow.  Ultimately what He (God) wants is for us to gain His perspective, see our lives from His eyes.  

While James doesn't say that explicitly, this understanding of God's perspective is the wisdom that James is speaking about.  He encourages us to ask, and says God will give wisdom to us generously.  When we face a trial, rather than asking "why me?" maybe we should be asking "what are You wanting me to grow in?"  It seems to me that this means trials are actually opportunities, which is a completely different mind-set than I usually have concerning trials.

Finally, the final three verses have to do with our belief in God.  He speaks of people being double-minded and unstable.  It seems to me the area of doubt and questioning is related to what we think God is like.  A. W. Tozer says that ‘the most important thing is how we think about God’.  Our image of Him and thoughts about God color our whole outlook and perspective.  If we think God is someone who punishes us for bad behaviour, then anything that we don't enjoy in our life causes us to think that God is not pleased with us.  However the author of the Letter to the Hebrews had a completely different take on difficulties and relates them or maybe redefines them as discipline.  Here are two verses taken from section on discipline - Hebrews 12:7-8 NIV:

[7] "Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? [8] If you are not disciplined---and everyone undergoes discipline---then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all."

Here we see that difficulties and hardship might actually be used by God as ways to help us grow and mature, because the Father considers us His true sons and daughters.  Rather than Him being angry, it’s the exact opposite.  He sees us as His beloved children and is giving us opportunities to grow and mature.  

He does this because He knows that we are capable of great things and wants us to have the character and strength of relationship to walk into great things and not lose our way.  In fact, the author of Hebrews continues on with the following statement - "...God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness." (Heb12:10b)  He has great plans for us!

So, let us not doubt God's love.  

Let us hold firmly to Him, trusting that all things are for our good, our growth and maturity.  

God is good always, and He has good plans for each of us.  

He is not angry and does not punish us, for all punishment for our sin was already borne by Jesus.  

God desires us to grow and mature, learning to think like Him.  He wants us to embrace life in all its fullness, recognizing that we are His beloved sons and daughters.  Let us not be tossed about by fears and doubts, or think these trials are punishment but let us believe our Father loves us and is going to help us to grow into mature sons and daughters.

Lord help me to change my mindset about trials, testing  and difficulties, that I might see these as opportunities to grow, mature, and encounter Your faithfulness, mercy and love!  I am not sure I can get to "counting them as pure joy", but I can change my mind about the benefits of such times!

Amen!

Stone Fight?

Last night I was reflecting on some stuff that is flying around lately, and I was reminded of the story of the woman caught in adultery, found in John 8. 

It is such a  wonderful study in the grace of God, and such an interesting study of our humanity and our tendencies to judge those we know who are sinners.  Here is the story, which is one of my favorites - John 8:2-11 NIV:

[2] “At dawn he appeared again in the temple courts, where all the people gathered around him, and he sat down to teach them. [3] The teachers of the law and the Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery. They made her stand before the group [4] and said to Jesus, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. [5] In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?” [6] They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him. 

But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. [7] When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” 

[8] Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground. [9] At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. 

[10] Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” 

[11] “No one, sir,” she said. 

“Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.”

In my life I have spent a considerable time reflecting on this story, and every time my heart is moved by two things, the vulnerability of the woman, and Jesus’ response! 

However, the ugly part of the story is the group gathered ready to condemn! It is amazing to me how quickly a group gathers when someone is caught in sin, regardless of the sin, especially when it becomes known publically.

I am not sure what it is in our character and nature, but the idea of someone caught in sin, seems to drive a blood-lust like no other.  The term “sharks to blood” seems applicable.

I think there is something in us that is so relieved that “it isn’t me” that’s been caught, that we forget that we are every bit as much sinners as the next individual.  Jesus lays His finger directly on that idea with His simple statement “”Let any of you who is without sin throw the first stone.”

Secondly, I find it intriquing that it is the Pharisees and teachers of the law that parade the woman in front of Jesus. They are effectively the leaders of the church, the religious ones, and they are all spun up, ready to condemn this woman (one wonders where the man that she was caught with was in all this, but that’s another reflection). 

I have always found it interesting how quickly leaders will condemn those caught in sin, again, maybe it's to make sure the finger of accusation is not pointed at them, for we know we are all sinners (Romans 3;23).  There is clearly a role in pastoring and leading that includes dealing with sin, but I am pretty sure that gathering around the sinner and pointing fingers, ready to condemn the sinner is what Jesus deals with here!  Lord, have mercy on us!

I have always thought dealing with sin to be a bit like cleaning toilets, or maybe changing a nasty diaper.  When one of our kids had a blow-out we didn’t gather a group of people around to enjoy the experience, or talk about it endlessly.

I am reminded of a few verses whose heart we see in the verses above.  Jesus was speaking about His purpose in coming into the world - John 12:47-48 NIV:

[47] “If anyone hears my words but does not keep them, I do not judge that person. For I did not come to judge the world, but to save the world. [48] There is a judge for the one who rejects me and does not accept my words; the very words I have spoken will condemn them at the last day.”

Here we have Jesus, the very Son of God, the only one on earth that could judge, and He specifically says He didn’t come to judge!  I, for one, don’t want to take a position that Jesus wouldn’t take.  We see this very heart presented in the story we started with today.  Jesus, rather than judge or condemn, calls the woman to leave her life of sin.  One must believe that  this woman was radically changed by her encounter with such a savior.

Oh that people would experience this same mercy, love, gentleness and forgiveness at the hands of the church!

I just had a funny thought, imagine if the crowd actually started throwing stones at the other sinners after Jesus’ statement.  I think everyone would have come away bruised and battered as they would have been throwing stones at themselves!

I believe humility is the better and safer way.  I am reminded of several scriptures:

1 Peter 3:8 NIV: “Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.”

1 Peter 5:5-6 NIV:

[5] “In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” [6] Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.”

Philippians 2:1-5 NIV:

[1] ”Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, [2] then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. [3] Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, [4] not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. [5] In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:”

Ephesians 4:2-4 NIV:

[2] “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. [3] Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. [4] There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called;”

I could go on and on, but suffice it to say that this story about "the woman Jesus wouldn’t condemn" is here for a very important reason, to show us God’s heart towards us all!  He constantly deals with our sins, our mistakes, our misunderstandings, and washes us clean again and again!  He extends mercy, when we are absolutely not worthy of mercy! 

Oh that the church would learn to walk in this part of Jesus’ character.  He deals with sin, and He calls us out of sin, but His approach is gentleness and mercy.  

The day will come when we will be judged, and it's my prayer that I am found hidden in Him, washed in His purifying and cleansing blood.  I am certainly unworthy of His forgiveness and mercy, but then none of us are!  It is only due to His sacrifice that I have any hope!

Let us choose to embrace the ministry of Jesus!  Let us love one another deeply, being gentle and humble and bearing with one another in love!  Let us extend mercy and grace to one another and remind ourselves of God’s incredible grace and mercy towards us.

Let us present to the world a completely different approach to sin, the very one that Jesus demonstrated!  

How do we ever expect that the church will be clean and spotless if we deal with sin by throwing stones?  

Oh Jesus help us!  Oh Holy Spirit blow upon us!  Blood of Jesus, wash us clean!

Amen and Amen!

In the Heavenly Courtroom

In the last few days I have been thinking about the way the Lord works in our lives, and how different that is compared to how we think He would work.  Our ideas of God’s interactions with us can be all over the place, even for those of us in the Church, for we are not immune to misunderstanding, deception, and bad or incomplete teaching. I find that we struggle to really grasp the idea of Grace, the truth of the Gospel, and the invitation to relationship.  

This morning I am reflecting on a few verses from Paul’s letter to the Romans that are so full of good news, and helpful perspectives, that they have really helped me to embrace a deeper understanding of how good God really is towards me.  Here are the verses - Romans 8:31-39 NIV:

[31] “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? [32] He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? [33] Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. [34] Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. [35] Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? [36] As it is written: “For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” 

[37] No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. [38] For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, [39] neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

First, the simple truth - God is for us!  He is not against us (ver. 31).

Say that again, God is for us!  

God is for me!

He withholds nothing from me! (ver. 32)

He has given His best (His Son Jesus) for me! (ver. 32)

No one can bring ANY charges against me, for I am chosen and justified by God! (ver. 33)

Jesus is standing at the right hand of the Father interceding for me. (ver. 34)

In other words Jesus is defending me, pleading His case for me!  He is the one who chose me and justified me, and who has applied His righteousness to me!

When I think about this, I see a heavenly courtroom, and Jesus is on my side (my defender).  He is the one pleading my case!  

And if He is my defender, who is the one bringing charges? According to Revelations 12:10, the accuser of the Brethren (Satan) is the one bringing charges, or in our case we would call him the “prosecutor”.  

Revelation 12:10 NIV:  "Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: “Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Messiah. For the accuser of our brothers and sisters, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down.”

This picture has helped me so much, for there are many times the thoughts entering my mind are accusations, and I know exactly where those accusations are coming from, and who they are coming from.  

Often times the accusations are aimed at me, things like:

“You aren’t worthy!”

“You have disqualified yourself!”

“Don’t you remember the terrible thing you said or did? God will never accept you!”

“You are damaged goods, there is no hope for you, you might as well quit!”

If I start down one of these paths, my mind will be filled will all sorts of memories, almost like I am opening up a trash bag of all the bad things I have thought or done in the past.  Again, according to scripture this is not coming from the Lord, but from the enemy of our soul!. 

It is at times like these, that I hold onto the truths in Romans 8!

Equally important, I need to apply these same verses to all of my brothers and sisters in the Body of Christ!  Clearly God feels the exact same way about them as He does me!  

I often find that I have thoughts about others that would be much more in line with the accusations of the enemy, than the truth expressed in Romans 8.  I find myself judging them, being offended at their sins, or even the idea that they might sin!  I see all sorts of imperfections in them, and find myself agreeing whole-heartedly! I find myself thinking that I don’t want to be in relationship with them, etc.  Yikes!

One time I was really being swept away by this thinking and the Lord interrupted my judgment and accusations, and asked me, “which side of the courtroom are you on?” 

I realized that I was on the side opposite of Him!  (That’s what the yikes is about!)

I immediately repented and asked that He forgive me for joining the accusations against the Brethren!  I prayed for His perspective, His mercy and His grace!

Finally, there are other times where the thoughts that enter my mind are accusing God of wrong doing!  Times where I am having difficulty, or things aren’t working out the way I thought they would!  I find that I am very susceptible to grumbling and complaining!  

At times like these, I find that I am acting much like the Israelites after they were led out of slavery in Egypt, and complaining about the manna!  Their life was difficult, and they were wanting to go back to Egypt for better food!  They were complaining about God’s plan and provision! 

I have found myself doing this multiple times!  Thoughts like the following:

“I can’t believe God’s plan for me led to this dead-end job!”

“I have been praying for this for years and God hasn't done a thing, clearly He doesn’t love me!”

“I have done so much for God, and now this happens, He clearly doesn’t care for me!”

“I have done so much for God, I deserve a blessing and instead I get this…”

“God didn’t heal this person I love, so he isn’t a good God after all!”

“How could God let this happen to me?”

I could continue on, but I think the point is clear!  I often find myself agreeing with these accusations about God!  Again, I have had the Lord interrupt my complaints and ask me, “Sam, which side of the court room are on?”

Yikes!

Incidentally, this is the exact same type of accusation that Eve listened to in the Garden!

In summary, I have found that living my life with this understanding has helped me immensely to think correctly!  I have found myself on the wrong side of the courtroom too many times, and recognizing that I am in league with the enemy rather than the Lord has definitely helped me battle through the war in my mind to get myself on the Lord’s side.  

I have been helped greatly and my prayer is that we would all step over to the Lord’s side, for our own view of our lives before Him, and our attitudes towards others in the Body of Christ! 

Lastly, I have been greatly helped in my ability to hold onto my faith in God, seeing His goodness in the midst of difficulty, and seen my hope rise!

My prayer is that the Lord might help us all!  Lord, have mercy on us, extend your grace to us!  Thank you for Your grace, your mercy, Your forgiveness and you intercessions for me!

Amen and Amen!

Sprinkled and Washed

Lately, I have been reflecting on a few different verses and I  was returned to the following verses for today - Hebrews 10:19-25 NIV:

[19] “Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, [20] by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, [21] and since we have a great priest over the house of God, [22] let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. [23] Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. [24] And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, [25] not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

What a great encouraging passage!  The author reminds us of these great truths, and then encourages us to draw near to God and to press into the Body of Christ, encouraging our love and good deeds towards one another!

Personally, I do feel encouragement to engage in our fellowship group, in our church and into the friendships and family relations we have been graced with in our lives.  However, it is all on the foundation of our faith that this is most filled with life and meaning.  We are invited into eternal life, a life of knowing God, through the sacrifice of Jesus, making a way for us to be restored to relationship!  

I am fully aware of the cleansing grace the Lord releases to us, and how His sacrifice has been applied to our lives, and is available to empower and wash us clean!  Of late, I have definitely seen this grace in action, this empowerment to cleanse my life, my mind, my thoughts, my actions.  The language of verse 22 above is one of something (cleansing and washing) that has already been done, and does not need to be done again!

This is truly one of the mysteries of God’s grace that His actions have perfectly cleansed us, already, and that when confessed and repented of, that past payment and cleansing has already been applied. Our whole lives have essentially been painted with grace, mercy, compassion and love from the point of Christ’s Glorious payment forward through the end of our lives!  There is a fount of living cleansing water that erupted at the Cross that is available for the washing of  everything in the future, and in the past.  

Our lives should be filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude for this clear gift,this unearned gifting and cleansing!  What a miraculous opportunity we have to live our lives in union with God, who has made the perfect way for us to step into a relationship with Him!  We do have the full assurance of our faith, that not only is this possible, it is true!

Thank You Lord for Your amazing, life-giving, cleansing, and loving gift!

Amen and Amen!

Resisting False Comfort

Recently the focus of my prayer and my daily walk has been on allowing the Lord to be my comforter. I shared a bit called “The God of All Comfort” and this morning I am adding a few practical thoughts, and helpful things the Lord has shown me. 

Here is a link to that Blog Entry: https://amomentwithgod-srh.blogspot.com/2025/08/the-god-of-all-comfort.html

This morning I am looking at ways I can resist turning to other things for comfort. In scripture, we are told there are three main things we battle - the world, the flesh and the evil one. (See 1 John 2:15-17, Eph 6:12 for scriptural basis).  In my life they all seem to swirl together, but are definitely something I am aware of in my life.  The way I experience them is in the form of unhealthy appetites, and by that I mean desires that take me out of the will of the Lord, and healthy appetites.  These are held up as comforts, but they are offering false comfort.  One could say that I see the need to resist these false comforts!

For example, we all need to eat, and hunger is part of God’s creation of our bodies, to help us know when we need to eat, to provide fuel for our bodies.  I have normal hunger, and I also have self-focused hunger, where I want specific things, even though I know they are unhealthy for me. I am trying to fill something other than my natural appetite.  In my case it is abundant carbohydrates, specifically sweets.  I have a terrible “sweet tooth”.  

Medically speaking, my body had a tendency towards very high cholesterol, and eating carbs increases my cholesterol in my body significantly. This was discovered about 30 years ago when I weighed 20lbs less, and had an overall Cholesterol count over 400 and a triglyceride count 10x higher than normal.  With numbers like those I was likely going to have some arterial blockage or heart attack, but from the outside I looked healthy.  (If you want to read more about the body chemistry stuff I suggest reading  “Protein Power” By Dr. Michael R Eades).

The solution to my internal body chemistry problems has proven to be limiting my carb intake, especially sweets.  

I don’t like this solution!  I want to eat sweets and other carbs, especially breads, pastry, cake, pie and candy!  

This is my flesh talking.

For a few years I did pretty well, but then started eating more carbs, even rewarding myself (Comforting) with sweets for certain goals.  As I ate more, I found I wanted more, and of course I ate more.  One day the Lord stopped me and said something like, “you know the enemy is trying to get you to take yourself out by eating things that will cause you to have a heart attack and die!”

That stopped me in my tracks!

It had never occurred to me that the enemy would use such sly tactics  in his attack on me.  As I started paying attention to my thoughts more, I noticed that indeed it seemed like thoughts of certain desires would just pop into my head.  Sometimes they would be triggered by ads on TV, but other times, I noticed they were more related to being bored, or one could say feeling an emptiness inside, and I was trying to ease that,or comfort myself. 

For years since, I have worked to resist those urges, those thoughts, and just telling myself no.  At times I do better than others, but it is a constant “battle”.  

Lately the Lord, specifically the Holy Spirit,  has provided me a better tool in resisting those thoughts and appetites. Lately He has had me speaking the truth of where those actions (eating what I shouldn’t) will lead.  

When I am hungry, when I realize that I am having thoughts or urges to eat sweets, I say to myself, “Eating that will result ultimately in my death.  It won’t be right away, but I will gain weight, I will get unhealthy and then I will have a heart attack!”

Amazingly, the appetite or urge goes away almost immediately!

I have found this technique works equally well with my other appetites.  Speaking the truth, in contrast to the false pleasure or filling my hollow place that these appetites hold up, has helped me immensely in resisting the urge to turn to other things for comfort

In his letter to all believers, James gives us some really good advice found in James 4:7-8a NIV:

[7] “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. [8] Come near to God and he will come near to you.”

I find that when I resist, the urge, the appetite and the thoughts all disappear quickly.  This leads me to believe that the enemy is indeed using these to attack me and try to get me to take myself out, however he can!

In summary, I have recently found great help in identifying those areas that are out of line with God’s plans and purposes, and healthy appetites, and started speaking truth to myself, rather than just trying to say no or resist.  Speaking the truth, seems to give me much more to hold onto, and strengthens my will and self-control.

My prayer is that this is helpful to you in your efforts to follow the Lord, and make Him the God of all comfort in your life!

Amen and Amen!

A Different Take on The Seed and Soil

This morning while walking my dog in our local park, I was praying and asking the Lord to forgive areas in my life that are not aligned with Him, specifically areas that have always been a bit of a struggle for me.  As I prayed that prayer, I saw a picture of someone digging up a whole area of their yard and bringing in new soil.  I was immediately reminded of the verses about the sower, the seed and the soil.  

Here are the verses and the explanation as found in the Gospel of Matthew 13:3-9,18-23 NIV:

[3] “Then he [Jesus] told them many things in parables, saying: “A farmer went out to sow his seed. [4] As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. [5] Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. [6] But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. [7] Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants. [8] Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. [9] Whoever has ears, let them hear.” 

[18] “Listen then to what the parable of the sower means: [19] When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in their heart. This is the seed sown along the path. [20] The seed falling on rocky ground refers to someone who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. [21] But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. [22] The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful. [23] But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.”

So often when I have read these verses before, I always understood that Jesus was talking about different people and their responses to the Gospel of the Kingdom, and I do believe that is true.  However, this morning I saw that it could also be applied to different areas of my life!  There are areas of my life where I bear good fruit, and then there are areas where I am less fruitful, areas where regularly my attention and focus gets distracted, areas where I have been trying to change for years and seen little progress, and probably areas where God’s Word has yet to penetrate.  That really changes my reading of this parable, as I always thought because I was bearing fruit in areas, I was good soil. 

Today, I felt the gentle encouragement of the Lord to take a closer look at my life, and take a real inventory of the type of soil I have in specific areas. I have never thought this way before, and while challenging, I think the encouragement is very helpful.  

In my yard, when I wanted to create a garden, I dug up that area of the yard, brought in new soil and fertilizer.  I can do similar things in my life.  I can choose to dig up sections, to turn them over, to reveal that which is under the surface.  I can find a trusted friend or two to reveal the depths of my soil, areas where I have been unfruitful, areas where I have let the worldly mindset trample and harden!  I can confess my findings to the Lord, (He knows them anyway) and ask for His help in turning over and cleaning my life. 

Sometimes He will use the refuse of my past, now turned to compost, to renew my present life, bearing fruit for others to see.  What was brokenness and sinful, when revealed and subjected to the Word, broken down into humility, can now help others and bear fruit for His Glory. 

This morning I am encouraged to pray for the Lord’s revelation to show me what areas in my life need to be renewed, weeded, roto-tilled, fertilized and watered.  I am confident that He is about a work in my life to enable me to bear more fruit!  Thank you Lord for Your active word, and Your direction and guidance!  I do want to bear good fruit in every area of my life!

Ameen and Amen!

The God of ALL Comfort

Tuesday night as I was praying the Lord dropped into my mind the theme of comfort, and how we (especially in the western world) turn to other things than Him for comfort.  I was reminded of a couple of verses.  First to set the foundation - He is the God of all Comfort!  Here is the scriptural reference from Paul’s second letter to Corinth - 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 NIV:

[3] Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, [4] who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” 

The word comfort here is the original Greek word paraklēsis  which has several meanings, all of which are helpful.  However today we are focusing on the following two uses and definitions: 

1) exhortation, admonition, encouragement

2) consolation, comfort, solace; that which affords comfort or refreshment

Clearly the translators are focused on the second use here.  We know that the Holy Spirit is called the Paraclete, our helper and encourager, and should also be understood that He is our comforter.

The other verses that were called to mind were verses that had to do with appetites - one in the old testament and one in the new.  Here are the reference scriptures: 

Numbers 11:4-6 NIV:

[4] “The rabble with them began to crave other food, and again the Israelites started wailing and said, “If only we had meat to eat! [5] We remember the fish we ate in Egypt at no cost—also the cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions and garlic. [6] But now we have lost our appetite; we never see anything but this manna!”

And - 

Philippians 3:18-19 NIV:

[18] “For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. [19] Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things.”

The Greek word translated stomach is the word Koilia and it means “hollow” and can be translated stomach, appetites, belly, even our inner-most being. The point appears to apply to those who are trying to fill an emptiness.  In the verses from numbers, their focus on food was such that they were forgetting they were slaves in Egypt, and living under a terrible burden.

The point of these two verses is not that food or hunger is bad, but rather there is a reality where we can place more importance on filling ourselves with other things (food is one example) rather than the Lord!.  Paul writes that there are those who are living this way are making this pursuit a god in their life.  If something is our god, it means we are in some ways worshipping that other thing.

In our modern world we are obsessed with our comfort!  We can exist in such a way that we could never have to leave our homes, nor expose ourselves to any hardship.  The ads and marketing speak of our comfort, of having things the way we want, of fulfilling our hunger and desires.  Our homes are built around comfort, our furniture, and appliances are focused on convenience and comfort!  We are surrounded by a cacophony of voices telling us we can sate our hunger and emptiness with things. 

In my quick thoughts on this subject, I came up with a list of things we turn to for comfort:

1. Food (Comfort food is an actual phrase)
2. Clothes and other personal items
3. Houses (settling into our comfy place)
4. TV Shows and media (do we call our favorites “my show” or find ourselves binge watching shows?)
5. Drugs and alcohol (mood altering is one way of finding or inducing comfort)
6. Sexual attraction (something that makes us feel enlivened or wanted)

The point here is that none of these things are bad on their own.  In fact, one could argue they are all part of God’s creation and our creative abilities which are gifts from the Lord.  However, if we find ourselves turning to them instead of the Lord when we need comfort or are feeling empty, then this might be something we need to look at in our lives!

God is the God of All Comfort.

One wonders if we really believe that?

Can He fill our emptiness?

Can He meet our needs?

I can think of several verses that provide God’s perspective on these questions, here are just a few:

Matthew 6:25-33 NIV: 

Jesus speaking here [25] “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? [26] Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? [27] Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? 

[28] “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. [29] Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. [30] If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? [31] So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ [32] For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. [33] But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

And - 

1 Timothy 6:17 NIV:

“Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.”

And - 

Matthew 11:28-30 NIV:

[28] “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. [29] Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. [30] For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

And - 

Philippians 4:19 NIV:

“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”

In summary, God does provide, does care about our needs, our comfort, and our lives!  He is the God of All Comfort, and He will meet us in our need!  If we find ourselves constantly turning to other things, then we might need to change the way we are thinking and ask for His help to turn to Him, instead of these other “gods”!

Lord help us!

Amen!

Could He, Would He, Is He?

I was just thinking about a ministry event we had last night and some of the prayers, and ideas of how the Lord might move, and I heard myself asking, “Could He, Would He, and is He”?   This seems to be a good review of my faith position, getting His perspective, and finding where I need to get to, so that I can join what he is doing!

I hope that make sense.  I like simple phrases that help direct my reflections.

Could He?

We find scripture loaded with the many things Jesus did from walking on water, to feeding 5000, to healing a man born blind, to raising Lazarus.  In the Old testament we see God rescuing the Israelites from the Egyptian army by opening the sea, we find people raised from the dead, walls collapsing around Jericho, the sun standing still, etc.  Suffice it to say that God can do whatever He wants. Jesus said in Mark 10:27 NIV: “With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.” 

Would He?

This is a bit more subjective, in that it is not so much a question of ability but rather intent.

I am reminded of one of the stories found in Matthew 8:1-3 NIV:

[1] “When Jesus came down from the mountainside, large crowds followed him. [2] A man with leprosy came and knelt before him and said, “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.” 

[3] Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. “I am willing,” he said. “Be clean!” Immediately he was cleansed of his leprosy.”

I was also reminded of several times that we find Jesus’ motivation listed as compassion,  Here a few examples:

Matthew 14:14 NIV

When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick.

Matthew 20:34 NIV

Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him.

Matthew 15:32 NIV

Jesus called his disciples to him and said, “I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat. I do not want to send them away hungry, or they may collapse on the way.”

As a simple test, we can tell that if the Lord’s compassion is evident or growing in us, that He is planning to move, and the answer is yes!  He would feed the 5000, heal the blind men, or heal the man with leprosy.

There are many times that Jesus’ motivation to heal or work a miracle is not mentioned.  However we find no case in scripture where He turned someone away that came to Him for healing, however we know that not every sick person mentioned in the New Testament got healed.  Jesus walked into an area full of sick people by the Pool of Bethesda and healed the one man (See John 5) so we do need to ask the question!  It is my conviction that almost  always the answer will be yes, He would, for He loves HIs people, desires them to know His love, and He is the God who heals!

Is He?

This is the most important question, for this is a present tense question.  What is He doing right now?  The first two questions have to do with faith and expectation, this question has to do with the right now!  

Using the pool of Bethesda as an example, We know God is a Healer and can heal people paralyzed.  We know that when people brought Him someone who was paralyzed, that He healed them (See Mark 2:1-12).  

In this case Jesus walks into the room of sick people and just engages the one man. Our previous two questions would assume that if Jesus walked into the pool area, He would have healed all of them, and yet we have a very clear story of His just healing the one man!  IN this illustration, the answer to our third question is that Jesus is just healing him.

I think we can draw a few principles that are helpful:

If Jesus moved to someplace He was going to do works in that place, as He had been sent there by the Father.  John 6:38 NIV: “For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me.”

If Jesus is touching someone He intends to do a work in them.  No one that encountered Jesus went away unchanged.  Sometimes the change is not evident externally at first, but the fruit will be evident.

If Jesus points out someone specifically, He is likely going to move.  In Mark 5:1-5, Jesus encounters a man with a shriveled hand, and while there is much going in that story, He calls the man to stand-up.  I am not sure the man knew He was going to be healed, but I am sure the apostles expected it!

Thus, when we are asking Is He?  We should be looking around, looking for people that the Lord is moving on, touching individually or highlighting to us.  In all three of these cases, He IS clearly working, and that’s a a good place to be!  

I am reminded of something Jesus said in the Gospel of John 4:34-35 NIV:

[34] “My food,” said Jesus, “is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work. [35] Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.”

Yes Lord, help us to open our eyes and look, for there are many that need Your touch!  Help us to see what You see, to do what You would do, and join ourselves to What the Father is doing that we might finish Your work!

Amen and Amen!

Choosing Enmity?

Verses for this morning from James 4:4-8 NIV:

[4] “You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God. [5] Or do you think Scripture says without reason that he jealously longs for the spirit he has caused to dwell in us? [6] But he gives us more grace. 

That is why Scripture says: “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” 

[7] Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. [8] Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”

Verse 4 is a rough verse to understand, for the extreme words are quite literally what James writes.  Our potential friendship (philios) with the world puts us in conflict with God. 

How are we supposed to live in this world then?

The word that gives us the key is “chooses”.  As this is not something that just happens, or the fruit of our learning to live in this world, but rather a willing deliberate purpose and plan.  The Greek word is boulomai.

Taking this word and definition a bit further, this is not Christian individual who is trying to live at peace with those around them, rather this is the one who schemes and plans, to embrace the things of the world that are in contrast to the ways of God, giving their heart and mind to such endeavors.  This is the individual who is making a conscious choice to embrace fully the ways of this world, knowing that they are turning their back on the Lord, in doing so.

Going back to the start of verse 4, James use the term “adulterous people” and while a shocking term, it does help define those He is addressing.  No one is an accidental adulterer or adulteress.  This may not be what someone planned to do initially, but they have made a definite choice at some point, and this is what James is pointing out. James is writing to the Church, to the Bride of Christ, so the term is applicable.

I would guess that there could be a fair number of church-goers that could identify themselves in this situation, where church is just an obligation, or a club membership that has not real impact on their real life, and choices.  They go to church to keep someone happy, or to keep up appearances, but their hearts and minds are far from Christian, and they have no plans to change. There were people like this in Jame’s day and there are people like this today. 

The important point for us today is to look at our motivation, at our choices in our lives.  God, in His grace, provides the opportunity and invitation for us to allow His Word to pierce our situation, and open our eyes and to embrace change (repentance).  James lays out the invitation in the following verses, encouraging us to submit ourselves to God, to resist the enemy, the spirit and ways of this world, and to come near to God. 

My encouragement today is to take stock of my day, my thoughts, my plans, my life choices, and to make sure that they are all leading me closer to God.  I know that my life here matters, and that my heart (motivations) is what the Lord examines.  I am grateful that He has made a way for me to be in relationship with Him, and He gives me guidance and help. I also know that if there are areas or choices I have made that are counter to God’s ways, that I have the opportunity to change.  The whole point of this word from James is to provide an opportunity to do so, not to announce impending judgment.

I know I am not perfect in my pursuit of Him, nor do I always have right motivations. I am so grateful that He is a loving God who has compassion, mercy, grace and forgiveness towards me.

Today, I am encouraged to choose to draw near to God, that He might draw near to me!

Amen and Amen!

JAILBREAK!

Last night as I was laying down to sleep I was reflecting and praying briefly for the upcoming Healing Through Encounter evening we are having at our church and I heard the word “Jailbreak”.  I immediately thought of Paul and Silas and their being released from the shackles as they were praising God (Acts 16).  This morning as I thought back over that word I was reminded of Peter’s miraculous release (Acts 12) and had an interesting thought.  This morning I am going to spend some time reflecting on each story, starting with Peter’s.

Acts 12:5-12 NIV:

[5] “So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him. 

[6] The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance. [7] Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. “Quick, get up!” he said, and the chains fell off Peter’s wrists. 

[8] Then the angel said to him, “Put on your clothes and sandals.” And Peter did so. “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me,” the angel told him. [9] Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision. [10] They passed the first and second guards and came to the iron gate leading to the city. It opened for them by itself, and they went through it. When they had walked the length of one street, suddenly the angel left him. 

[11] Then Peter came to himself and said, “Now I know without a doubt that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me from Herod’s clutches and from everything the Jewish people were hoping would happen.” 

[12] When this had dawned on him, he went to the house of Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered and were praying.”

Suffice it to say that Peter was in a very difficult situation, and the plan was for his death. He was chained and doubly guarded and locked deep in the dungeon, and chained to two guards. The prayers of the Church were rising to heaven and the Lord, as only He can do, stepped in and freed him so perfectly it seemed like a dream to Peter!  It was so miraculous that even the church couldn’t believe it had happened!   

It seems to me the Lord is saying it doesn’t matter how shackled or burdened or in the clutch of the enemy we are, He is able to set us free in an instant!

The second story is no less miraculous, found in Acts 16:22-31 NIV:

[22] “The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to be stripped and beaten with rods. [23] After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison, and the jailer was commanded to guard them carefully. [24] When he received these orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks. 

[25] About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. [26] Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose. [27] The jailer woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself because he thought the prisoners had escaped. [28] But Paul shouted, “Don’t harm yourself! We are all here!” 

[29] The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. [30] He then brought them out and asked, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” 

[31] They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.”

Wow! Again the Lord shows that He is capable of saving us from the most desperate of situations! This time Paul and Silas were praying and worshipping, at midnight, after they had Ben severely beaten, and their feet were in stocks!  

How many of us sing and worship God when we are in dire straits?

What is interesting to me is the immediate response of the jailer, the very one who had imprisoned Paul and Silas, after realizing they hadn’t escaped He immediately asked to be saved!

Suffice it to say that in both instances there was no earthly reason for hope.  But I can tell you that in both instances those in chains and the church were praying anyway, because they knew that with God all things are possible!  Jesus has all authority and all power and has broken the power and hold of sin and death, there is nothing He can’t do, and no place that we are shackled and imprisoned that He can’t set us free!

He is planning a jailbreak and He is inviting us to believe and pray for those that are imprisoned by the enemy!  In some cases that is us!

Let us pursue Him in earnest prayer, in worship, and believe that he is going to do miraculous works, so much so that whole household will receive salvation, and those that hear about it wil be astonished and filled with hope!  Those that are set free will be so transformed it will seem like a dream!!

With God all things are possible, even in the most hopeless of situations!  

Let us believe for freedom!  Freedom from sin, freedom from sickness, freedom from depression, freedom to the mentally afflicted, freedom for the addicted, freedom for the abused, freedom for those in any type of hopeless situation! 

Amen and Amen!

Discipline, Chastening and Love?

This morning I am reminded of a reflection from a few days back, looking at discipline, chastening and the original language.  I didn’t have a chance to finish that bit so will try this morning.  Here are the verses for this morning - Hebrews 12:4-11 NIV:

[4] “In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. [5] And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? 

It says, “My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, 

and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, 

[6] because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, 

and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.” 

[7] Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? [8] If you are not disciplined—and everyone undergoes discipline—then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. [9] Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! [10] They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. [11] No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”

I know these are verses that certainly don’t sound like an encouragement, as indicated by the author of the Letter to the Hebrews, but I believe that is because we read into them our modern understanding of the English words.  The motivation of the Father is Agape Love (verse 6).  Thus, we must read the words disciplines and chastens from the point of that motivation.

One thing to note, verse 5 and 6 are a quotation of Proverbs 3: 11-12.  I decided to look at those verses and there we find a much “softer” original language translation.

Proverbs 3:11-12 NIV

[11] “My son, do not despise the LORD’s discipline, and do not resent his rebuke, [12] because the LORD disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.”

Here we find the Hebrew translation for the word rebuke:

Strong's Definitions: מוּסָר mûwçâr, moo-sawr'; from H3256; properly, chastisement; figuratively, reproof, warning or instruction; also restraint:—bond, chastening(-eth), chastisement, check, correction, discipline, doctrine, instruction, rebuke.

And Disciplines:

Strong's Definitions: יָכַח yâkach, yaw-kahh'; a primitive root; to be right (i.e. correct); reciprocal, to argue; causatively, to decide, justify or convict:—appoint, argue, chasten, convince, correct(-ion), daysman, dispute, judge, maintain, plead, reason (together), rebuke, reprove(-r), surely, in any wise.

And finally love:

Strong's Definitions: אָהַב ʼâhab, aw-hab'; or אָהֵב ʼâhêb ; a primitive root; to have affection for (sexually or otherwise):—(be-) love(-d, -ly, -r), like, friend. 

As we look at these words, there is definitely a more positive perspective, especially if we look at the root motivation of love, or deep affection, as the Proverbs notes at the end of verse 12 for added context.  

This is not an angry father beating his child, flogging them because they have made a mistake or done wrong.  This is a father who absolutely delights in his child, bringing education, training and showing the child how to do it correctly, for their own good. The Father is intimately involved working with the child to show them the right way, helping them by way of His greater experience to understand.  

We must also note that this picture, the one of a father and son, is repeated and revealed by Jesus in His parable of the Prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32), as well as in His description of the Father found in Matthew 6 & 7 during His sermon on the mount.  It is so important that we take into account the totality of the scriptural revelation when ascribing action and motivation to the Father.  

The Father is loving. 

John says God IS love (1 John 4:8).

This doesn’t mean that God doesn’t bring correction, but His motivation and methodology are consistent, for all of us.  We know that God hates sin, and without getting into some list of things, we must remember how He handles sin, as revealed through Jesus’ life!

In summary, God does help us and correct us, but He does so to help us walk the path He has for us, to help us fulfill our purpose, that which we were made to do.  We see the Father doing exactly this in the parable of the Prodigal son.  The Father welcomed the son back by running to him, embracing him and restoring him to his identity, and right purpose.  In this case, the Father didn’t have to rebuke or correct because the son had come to his senses.  In our life we should be grateful that the Lord brings correction and training on the front side, so that we don’t walk through a terrible season of separation from Him.

This morning I am actually encouraged that the Father does love me, and I see that in His correction, direction, guidance and occasional rebuke.  He never deals with me in anger, but as a son He delights in, and for that I am so very grateful. 

Lord, I pray that You would help me to see, to lay down my pride so that I might be guided, directed, trained up in discipline, that I might fulfill all that tYou have for me to do!

Amen and Amen!

God's Promise vs. Logic

This morning I have been meditating on the life of Jeroboam, who was made King by the Lord over the 10 tribes.  Here are the verses that summarize that calling and appointing - 1 Kings 11:29-31,37-39 NIV:

[29] “About that time Jeroboam was going out of Jerusalem, and Ahijah the prophet of Shiloh met him on the way, wearing a new cloak. The two of them were alone out in the country, [30] and Ahijah took hold of the new cloak he was wearing and tore it into twelve pieces. [31] Then he said to Jeroboam, “Take ten pieces for yourself, for this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: ‘See, I am going to tear the kingdom out of Solomon’s hand and give you ten tribes.” 

[37] “However, as for you, I will take you, and you will rule over all that your heart desires; you will be king over Israel. [38] If you do whatever I command you and walk in obedience to me and do what is right in my eyes by obeying my decrees and commands, as David my servant did, I will be with you. I will build you a dynasty as enduring as the one I built for David and will give Israel to you. [39] I will humble David’s descendants because of this, but not forever.’ ”

The sad thing is that Jeroboam had the Lord’s blessing and protection, and he quickly abandoned the “Word of the Lord” for logic, even though exactly what the Lord had said came to pass.  

Continuing his story in 1 Kings 12, we see how quickly he abandoned the promise of God.  Here are a few verses of the larger story - 1 Kings 12:20,25-30 NIV:

[20 “When all the Israelites heard that Jeroboam had returned, they sent and called him to the assembly and made him king over all Israel. Only the tribe of Judah remained loyal to the house of David.” 

[25] Then Jeroboam fortified Shechem in the hill country of Ephraim and lived there. From there he went out and built up Peniel. [26] Jeroboam thought to himself, “The kingdom will now likely revert to the house of David. [27] If these people go up to offer sacrifices at the temple of the LORD in Jerusalem, they will again give their allegiance to their lord, Rehoboam king of Judah. They will kill me and return to King Rehoboam.”

[28] “After seeking advice, the king made two golden calves. He said to the people, “It is too much for you to go up to Jerusalem. Here are your gods, Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt.” [29] One he set up in Bethel, and the other in Dan. [30] And this thing became a sin; the people came to worship the one at Bethel and went as far as Dan to worship the other.”

I find it interesting that his advisors go back to the “golden calves” which was the very sin of the people under Moses (see Exodus 32:2-4).  The words he uses are almost identical.  

Regardless of the parallels, we see the pattern, God blessed, fulfills the promise,and then the man doubts, that the Lord will continue to fulfill His promise, and starts thinking logically, and seeking advice from other logical thinkers.  The issue is that God’s promises are not always logical, and require faith not logic to follow, and believe.  God demonstrated this over and over in their past, and yet they just quickly abandon all such understanding. 

This makes me think about the times I have abandoned God’s ways, for something that makes better sense to me.  The way the Lord described this to me, was that I was making an Ishmael instead of trusting in God’s promise (See Gen. 15 & 16). The Lord's call will often include promises that do not seem possible, practical, or logical.  We must be very careful in our thinking, and even advice seeking, to make sure that we are giving the proper place to the promise of the Lord, His word released into a situation.  

I know there have been times where I really wrestled with the Promise of the Lord, and how it seemed the exact opposite was occurring. These times are surely times of testing, and are opportunities for us to press into God even more, rather than relying on our own thoughts, logic, or even advice.

Oh Lord, help us to really trust You! Help us to believe your word, knowing that in the proper time it will be perfectly fulfilled.  Help us to trust not only Your word, but also Your timing! Help us to trust, to hold on, and to reject advice that says we should take matters into our own hands!

Thank You Lord for Your encouragement today!

Amen!

Fan Into Flame Again!

Verses for today - 2 Timothy 1:6-12 NIV:

[6] “For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. [7] For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. [8] So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God. [9] He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, [10] but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. [11] And of this gospel I was appointed a herald and an apostle and a teacher. [12] That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet this is no cause for shame, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until that day.”

What a great charge and encouragement Paul gives to Timothy. I get the impression that maybe Timothy had eased up a bit in his running the race of faith.  Paul, doesn’t berate him, but encourages him to fan back into flame the gift(s) of God that he had already received.  

I do believe that any gifts that were have received are still there, though there are seasons of greater fruitfulness, and expression and growth in other gifts as well.  In our family we always bless the birthday person with gifts, but we don’t ask for old gifts back.  Sometimes the enemy convinces us that gifts or callings are just for a season, and somehow our lack of zeal or even sinfulness have caused these gifts to be removed.

All we need to do is look at the examples of great people of faith whose sinful lifestyles have been exposed to know that God’s gifts and anointings do not get removed if we sin.  Many of these individuals had powerful ministries right up until their sin was exposed.  I am not applauding the sin, but rather the mercy and grace of God in giving the gift with a no-repossession clause.  When He gives us gifts they are ours.  Whether we use them or walk in them is up to us.

So the question this morning is what gifts have I been given that I need to fan back into flame?  What gifts have I received that I have stopped believing I have access to?  What things has the Lord put in me for His own purpose, through His grace?  

Clearly I have not done anything to earn any gifts, yet He, in His infinite wisdom, has given them to me for a purpose!  He is patient and loving, merciful and compassionate, and expects me to have seasons of greater fruitfulness and passion, for He knows what my life is like. He has walked among us, has lived a life on earth and understands fully what we encounter, and struggle against. 

This morning I am encouraged to look at my life, to remember the things the Lord has gifted to me, and to believe that everything he has given me, is still mine to walk in and enjoy.  His purpose is intact, His plans are perfect!  I just need to step in, to dust-off, to re-believe, and receive His empowering through the Holy Spirit.

Amen and Amen!