“’Return, faithless Israel,’ declares the Lord, ‘I will frown on you no longer, for I am merciful,’ declares the Lord, ‘I will not be angry forever.” – Jeremiah 3:12
Sometimes when we do wrong we think God is angry at us. We are ashamed and we hide; disappointed in ourselves and our actions. It can also be that we believe God didn’t do what we expected Him to do so we turn our backs on Him and start to go our own way. We lose faith in the God we once proclaimed that we believe in.
The truth is God is love. He is merciful and is grace is never-ending. Even when we are wrong, God is true and faithful enough to forgive us our sins. Nothing we can ever do can separate us from the love of God. He promises us in the scripture passage that even though we sometimes act faithless, He is indeed merciful and His anger only lasts for a moment.
Are you waiting on God to forgive you for something you have done? Do you believe that it is so great that He cannot possibly forgive? God is waiting on you. He loves you more than anything and He is waiting for you to return home to His loving arms.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Monday, March 30, 2009
Strike Out In faith
“Enlarge the place of your tent, stretch your tent curtains wide, do not hold back; lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes.” – Isaiah 54:2
God places dreams and ideas in our hearts for a reason. He lets us know what we are meant to be adding to the world by the things he places in our minds. But oftentimes we are reluctant to step out in faith. We believe that we are not good enough or have not attained the level of perfection that is necessary to do what God has called us to do. We are afraid to step out in faith.
But God is calling us to be bold, to strike out in faith. He is calling us to sacrifice who we are for what we might become. He is calling us to see ourselves in the manner that He sees us. God wants us to learn and know the promises He has for us. If we focus on listening to what others say, we will never get to where God intended for us to be. No-one knows us in the way that God does – He created us. He has said that we are strong in His power and that no weapon fashioned against us shall ever prosper. It is time to step out and step up. It is time to be all God has called us to be. It is time to shine in the Light of the Lord.
God places dreams and ideas in our hearts for a reason. He lets us know what we are meant to be adding to the world by the things he places in our minds. But oftentimes we are reluctant to step out in faith. We believe that we are not good enough or have not attained the level of perfection that is necessary to do what God has called us to do. We are afraid to step out in faith.
But God is calling us to be bold, to strike out in faith. He is calling us to sacrifice who we are for what we might become. He is calling us to see ourselves in the manner that He sees us. God wants us to learn and know the promises He has for us. If we focus on listening to what others say, we will never get to where God intended for us to be. No-one knows us in the way that God does – He created us. He has said that we are strong in His power and that no weapon fashioned against us shall ever prosper. It is time to step out and step up. It is time to be all God has called us to be. It is time to shine in the Light of the Lord.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
With All Your Heart, Your Soul and Your Strength
Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates. – Deuteronomy 6:5-9
It is crucial for every believer to know and wrap their arms around the important commandment that we love the Lord with all our hearts, souls and strength. God must always be kept first place in the life of any blood-washed believer. Whatever we decide to do must be done from a place of love for God. Putting God first makes life much more easier to manage. Having the Word of God as a filter for our decisions keep us on the right track. For those with children, the value of embracing this commandment is most crucial. Children must learn from us that nothing can take the place of God. They must know that the most important voice in their lives and in their hearts should be the voice of God. Whether you work outside the home or stay home, imbibing our children with God’s requirements of them is an important priority. Because I work full-time and have my children enrolled into after school programs in their Christian school, driving time is teaching time. Every opportunity in the car is a chance to give them the information God wants them to know.
Loving God with all our hearts, souls and strength is much more than lip-service. It must translate into our actions and be demonstrated by our attitudes. God’s commandments must not be known by heart but written on the tablets of our hearts. It must be the launching point from which we live our lives.
It is crucial for every believer to know and wrap their arms around the important commandment that we love the Lord with all our hearts, souls and strength. God must always be kept first place in the life of any blood-washed believer. Whatever we decide to do must be done from a place of love for God. Putting God first makes life much more easier to manage. Having the Word of God as a filter for our decisions keep us on the right track. For those with children, the value of embracing this commandment is most crucial. Children must learn from us that nothing can take the place of God. They must know that the most important voice in their lives and in their hearts should be the voice of God. Whether you work outside the home or stay home, imbibing our children with God’s requirements of them is an important priority. Because I work full-time and have my children enrolled into after school programs in their Christian school, driving time is teaching time. Every opportunity in the car is a chance to give them the information God wants them to know.
Loving God with all our hearts, souls and strength is much more than lip-service. It must translate into our actions and be demonstrated by our attitudes. God’s commandments must not be known by heart but written on the tablets of our hearts. It must be the launching point from which we live our lives.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Light Your Lamp
“No one lights a lamp and puts it under a place where it will be hidden, or under a bowl. Instead he puts it on it stand, so that those who come in may see the light. – Luke 11:33
Individually, we are all called to be light in the world. We are all called to take our place as ministers of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It is no secret that the world we live in is a very dark place. Our main assignment should be to bring light into our part of this earth. If we fail to function as we have been called, our part of the world continues to live in darkness. As a mother, my part of the world starts at home with my children. If I fail to shine the light of God into the lives of my daughters, my piece of the world closest to me remains in darkness. As believers, we are to be light to those in darkness. People should encounter us and know that there is something different about us. We all individually are stars; designed to light up the world and make it a brighter place.
Are you a light in your piece of the world or do you blend in and perpetuate the darkness?
Individually, we are all called to be light in the world. We are all called to take our place as ministers of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It is no secret that the world we live in is a very dark place. Our main assignment should be to bring light into our part of this earth. If we fail to function as we have been called, our part of the world continues to live in darkness. As a mother, my part of the world starts at home with my children. If I fail to shine the light of God into the lives of my daughters, my piece of the world closest to me remains in darkness. As believers, we are to be light to those in darkness. People should encounter us and know that there is something different about us. We all individually are stars; designed to light up the world and make it a brighter place.
Are you a light in your piece of the world or do you blend in and perpetuate the darkness?
Friday, March 27, 2009
Obedience Is Better Than Sacrifice
“Blessed rather are those who hear the Word of God and obey it. – Luke 11:28
“Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams. For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, he ahs rejected you as king.” – 1 Samuel 15:22-23
A well known teenager in the media recently explained the tough sacrifice that can come with disobedience. She was warned repeatedly by her mother about pre-marital sex but she made a conscious decision to disobey. The result was a child out of wedlock and an interruption to her education. Having a child has changed the course of her entire life. Her disobedience has caused her to sacrifice her teenage life. She can’t hang out with her friends on weeknights or weekends because she is too busy caring for an infant.
At some level we can all relate. We can all remember a time when we chose to disobey our parent(s) as a youngster and ended up paying a price for our choice. The same is the case with God. We are called to be obedient to God, not because He is sitting in heaven with a whip in hand but because we love Him and when we truly love someone, we are grieved when we hurt them. Disobedience hurts God – especially when we are blatant about it.
And because there are consequences for every act of disobedience we choose to engage in, we have to be ready to pay the accompanying sacrifice. In Saul’s case, making a decision to do differently from what He had been told by the Lord to do cost him the throne of Israel. What sacrifices have you had to endure for your disobedience? I am sure that whatever it is, it was not pleasant. Make a decision to e obedient to God. Ask Him for help in your decision making processes. You cannot do it alone. It is better to obey the Lord than pay the hefty price of disobedience.
“Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams. For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, he ahs rejected you as king.” – 1 Samuel 15:22-23
A well known teenager in the media recently explained the tough sacrifice that can come with disobedience. She was warned repeatedly by her mother about pre-marital sex but she made a conscious decision to disobey. The result was a child out of wedlock and an interruption to her education. Having a child has changed the course of her entire life. Her disobedience has caused her to sacrifice her teenage life. She can’t hang out with her friends on weeknights or weekends because she is too busy caring for an infant.
At some level we can all relate. We can all remember a time when we chose to disobey our parent(s) as a youngster and ended up paying a price for our choice. The same is the case with God. We are called to be obedient to God, not because He is sitting in heaven with a whip in hand but because we love Him and when we truly love someone, we are grieved when we hurt them. Disobedience hurts God – especially when we are blatant about it.
And because there are consequences for every act of disobedience we choose to engage in, we have to be ready to pay the accompanying sacrifice. In Saul’s case, making a decision to do differently from what He had been told by the Lord to do cost him the throne of Israel. What sacrifices have you had to endure for your disobedience? I am sure that whatever it is, it was not pleasant. Make a decision to e obedient to God. Ask Him for help in your decision making processes. You cannot do it alone. It is better to obey the Lord than pay the hefty price of disobedience.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Open Your Ears and the Eyes Of Your Heart
“He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” – Mark 4:9
Jesus makes this remark right after teaching about the Parable of the Sower. Essentially the Word of God is sharper than any two-edged sword. The scriptures are powerful and designed to bear good fruit in our lives and in the lives of people around us. However, if we do not ensure that the seed of the Word falls on good ground in our hearts, we can read the entire Bible and not get a thing from it.
Just like the Holy Spirit for God that lives within every believer to empower us to live the best Christian life that we can, there is the opposing force that tries to interfere with what God wants to do in our lives. If we allow this opposing force, it will steal away from our hearts any good that the seed of the Word might produce. He can either make it such that the Word goes in one ear and comes through another, never taking root. Or he can allow us to go through a moment of change but places circumstances in our lives that prevent the Word from having a lasting effect.
It is up to us as believers in Jesus Christ to guard our hearts and our minds. We must have a place deep down in the recesses of our heart that is reserved solely for God; a place where the enemy has no access to. This is the place where we hear from, study and germinate the seeds of the Word of God. This is the good ground where the seeds can germinate, grow and multiply a hundred fold. This is the sacred place reserved for Almighty God to dwell inside of us. A place we operate in the spirit from where no man, no woman, no circumstance, no adversity and not even our own selfish attitudes can contaminate.
Jesus makes this remark right after teaching about the Parable of the Sower. Essentially the Word of God is sharper than any two-edged sword. The scriptures are powerful and designed to bear good fruit in our lives and in the lives of people around us. However, if we do not ensure that the seed of the Word falls on good ground in our hearts, we can read the entire Bible and not get a thing from it.
Just like the Holy Spirit for God that lives within every believer to empower us to live the best Christian life that we can, there is the opposing force that tries to interfere with what God wants to do in our lives. If we allow this opposing force, it will steal away from our hearts any good that the seed of the Word might produce. He can either make it such that the Word goes in one ear and comes through another, never taking root. Or he can allow us to go through a moment of change but places circumstances in our lives that prevent the Word from having a lasting effect.
It is up to us as believers in Jesus Christ to guard our hearts and our minds. We must have a place deep down in the recesses of our heart that is reserved solely for God; a place where the enemy has no access to. This is the place where we hear from, study and germinate the seeds of the Word of God. This is the good ground where the seeds can germinate, grow and multiply a hundred fold. This is the sacred place reserved for Almighty God to dwell inside of us. A place we operate in the spirit from where no man, no woman, no circumstance, no adversity and not even our own selfish attitudes can contaminate.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
You Cannot Deceive God
When Samuel reached him, Saul said, “The Lord bless you! I have carried out the Lord’s instructions.” But Samuel said, “What then is this bleating of sheep in my ears? What is this lowing of cattle that I hear?” Saul answered, “The Soldiers brought them from the Amalekites; they spared the best sheep and cattle to sacrifice to the Lord your God, but we totally destroyed the rest.” – 1 Samuel 15:13-15
God’s instructions were clear. Saul was to go and attack the Amalekites and totally destroy everything that belonged to them. He was told not to spare them but to destroy all men, women, children, infants, cattle, sheep, camels and donkeys. But did Saul do exactly what God had told him to do? No. He suddenly decided to keep the best sheep and cattle. He spared the fat calves and lambs when God told him to spare absolutely nothing.
Not only did Saul disobey the voice of the Lord, he had the audacity to lie that he kept the spoils just for God. Basically he was saying he disobeyed God for God’s sake! Consequently, Saul was rejected as King over Israel by God. We all fall into the same trap sometimes. We refuse to do exactly as God tells us to in His Holy Word and we consciously decide to go our own way. Some of us even have the guts to blame God when trouble inevitably descends on us for our wrong choices.
God’s plan for us is always clear. His instructions and commandments are not convoluted. They are laid out for us in the Bible in a way that each one of us can understand. Even the most complex instructions can be articulated clearly for us by the Holy Spirit that dwells inside of us if we take time to enquire. But oftentimes we think we know more than God does and we change the script to suit our own purposes. Unfortunately for us, God cannot be deceived or mocked. No matter how hard we try to justify and explain away our wrongdoings, God sees our heart, our motives and he knows precisely what we are up to.
God’s instructions were clear. Saul was to go and attack the Amalekites and totally destroy everything that belonged to them. He was told not to spare them but to destroy all men, women, children, infants, cattle, sheep, camels and donkeys. But did Saul do exactly what God had told him to do? No. He suddenly decided to keep the best sheep and cattle. He spared the fat calves and lambs when God told him to spare absolutely nothing.
Not only did Saul disobey the voice of the Lord, he had the audacity to lie that he kept the spoils just for God. Basically he was saying he disobeyed God for God’s sake! Consequently, Saul was rejected as King over Israel by God. We all fall into the same trap sometimes. We refuse to do exactly as God tells us to in His Holy Word and we consciously decide to go our own way. Some of us even have the guts to blame God when trouble inevitably descends on us for our wrong choices.
God’s plan for us is always clear. His instructions and commandments are not convoluted. They are laid out for us in the Bible in a way that each one of us can understand. Even the most complex instructions can be articulated clearly for us by the Holy Spirit that dwells inside of us if we take time to enquire. But oftentimes we think we know more than God does and we change the script to suit our own purposes. Unfortunately for us, God cannot be deceived or mocked. No matter how hard we try to justify and explain away our wrongdoings, God sees our heart, our motives and he knows precisely what we are up to.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
What Motivates You?
When Jacob was told, “Your son Joseph has come to you, “Israel rallied his strength and sat up on the bed. – Genesis 48:2
We all get disappointed by life in one way or another as we journey through it. We all fall sometimes and have no desire to strive any longer. We loose the wind in our sails and want to give up on our hopes and our dreams. But there is always one constant source of encouragement; that one thing that gives you the desire to push yourself a little more or try just a tiny bit harder. For me, this is simply my desire and aspirations for my life in the Lord and the lives of my children. Even when tough circumstances threaten to derail me from the course that I have mapped out, I take time to remember the things that God has said concerning my life. I reflect on the visions and the pictures that He has placed in my mind regarding where I am headed. Those vivid imageries give me the strength I need to “sit up” just like Jacob did at the announcement of the presence of his son, Joseph.
You ability to rally up your strength and keep pressing forward pass tough times will depend heavily on your faith, passion and motivation. You must have the ability to see further than your physical eyes can see. You must be able to see where God is taking you with the eyes of your heart. And even though you are not quite there yet, your faith is so strong that you can see the promise long before you arrive.
We all get disappointed by life in one way or another as we journey through it. We all fall sometimes and have no desire to strive any longer. We loose the wind in our sails and want to give up on our hopes and our dreams. But there is always one constant source of encouragement; that one thing that gives you the desire to push yourself a little more or try just a tiny bit harder. For me, this is simply my desire and aspirations for my life in the Lord and the lives of my children. Even when tough circumstances threaten to derail me from the course that I have mapped out, I take time to remember the things that God has said concerning my life. I reflect on the visions and the pictures that He has placed in my mind regarding where I am headed. Those vivid imageries give me the strength I need to “sit up” just like Jacob did at the announcement of the presence of his son, Joseph.
You ability to rally up your strength and keep pressing forward pass tough times will depend heavily on your faith, passion and motivation. You must have the ability to see further than your physical eyes can see. You must be able to see where God is taking you with the eyes of your heart. And even though you are not quite there yet, your faith is so strong that you can see the promise long before you arrive.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Blessing in Numbers
Two are better than one, because they have a good return from their work; if one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. – Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
No man is an island. We all need each other. One of the greatest gifts from God is to be removed from isolation and brought into relationship. God Himself wants a personal and intimate relationship with each and every one of us. The only way we can be what God desires for us to be in when we are in relationship with Him and with others. It is only when we are connected to God and to other members of the body of Christ that we can grow and develop into who the Lord will have us be.
The Bible reminds us here about the importance of intimacy and bonding. God did not create us to be alone or to live in isolation. He tells us that when two or more of us are gathered in His name, he would surely be in our midst. Everybody needs somebody. The Lord is the true vine and we are the branches. We cannot grow and thrive without Him or without others in our lives. Our hearts are kept safe because of our relationship with God and our relationships with others. Isolation is not of God but a plot by the enemy to hinder our development. We sometimes believe that we can take care of ourselves and that we need no one else but the truth of the matter is without relationship we can’t be fulfilled.
If you feel isolated today or have made a conscious decision to separate yourself from others; reach out to someone today. Share someone else’s burden – make another happy. In creating happiness for another you invite happiness and warmth into your own life.
No man is an island. We all need each other. One of the greatest gifts from God is to be removed from isolation and brought into relationship. God Himself wants a personal and intimate relationship with each and every one of us. The only way we can be what God desires for us to be in when we are in relationship with Him and with others. It is only when we are connected to God and to other members of the body of Christ that we can grow and develop into who the Lord will have us be.
The Bible reminds us here about the importance of intimacy and bonding. God did not create us to be alone or to live in isolation. He tells us that when two or more of us are gathered in His name, he would surely be in our midst. Everybody needs somebody. The Lord is the true vine and we are the branches. We cannot grow and thrive without Him or without others in our lives. Our hearts are kept safe because of our relationship with God and our relationships with others. Isolation is not of God but a plot by the enemy to hinder our development. We sometimes believe that we can take care of ourselves and that we need no one else but the truth of the matter is without relationship we can’t be fulfilled.
If you feel isolated today or have made a conscious decision to separate yourself from others; reach out to someone today. Share someone else’s burden – make another happy. In creating happiness for another you invite happiness and warmth into your own life.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Content With Little
Better a dry crust with peace and quiet than a house full of feasting with strife. – Proverbs 17:1
The economy has rendered many of us working class citizens worse for wear from a monetary point of view. Many have had to give up their homes because of loss of employment of declining value. This is a time when we all must learn to be content with little. For many, abundance and wastefulness is now a thing of the past. But even when there is little, there is still the opportunity to live a fulfilled life.
There are some important things in life that money cannot buy – two of which are peace and joy. I’ve had times in the past where money was not an issue but peace and joy eluded me. Living with a lot of strife and discord weakened my spirit and brought pain to my heart. There were occasions when I hurt so bad that I believed that my heart would surely come out of my mouth. In order for me to survive, I needed to make drastic changes, one of which included learning to live with less.
As time went on, living with less became a blessing while walking with God. I had a new found peace and joy. I suddenly was able to lay down at night in peace and rise up in the morning with joy. There was a sudden breeze of calm in my spirit that circumstances could not steal away. Discord and strife was gone and peace, hope and joy have ventured in. I now know for a fact that money and material things may bring comfort but comfort is impossible to enjoy when there is strife, discord and pain.
The economy has rendered many of us working class citizens worse for wear from a monetary point of view. Many have had to give up their homes because of loss of employment of declining value. This is a time when we all must learn to be content with little. For many, abundance and wastefulness is now a thing of the past. But even when there is little, there is still the opportunity to live a fulfilled life.
There are some important things in life that money cannot buy – two of which are peace and joy. I’ve had times in the past where money was not an issue but peace and joy eluded me. Living with a lot of strife and discord weakened my spirit and brought pain to my heart. There were occasions when I hurt so bad that I believed that my heart would surely come out of my mouth. In order for me to survive, I needed to make drastic changes, one of which included learning to live with less.
As time went on, living with less became a blessing while walking with God. I had a new found peace and joy. I suddenly was able to lay down at night in peace and rise up in the morning with joy. There was a sudden breeze of calm in my spirit that circumstances could not steal away. Discord and strife was gone and peace, hope and joy have ventured in. I now know for a fact that money and material things may bring comfort but comfort is impossible to enjoy when there is strife, discord and pain.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
No Good Separate From God
“You are my Lord; apart from you I have no good thing.” – Psalm 16:2
I remember very vividly what my life was like when I tried to live it in my own strength. It was a glorious mess. I kept tripping and falling over myself. I would do well for a while and then a bad decision will suddenly send me ten steps backwards. It wasn’t as if I was into drugs, alcohol or any kind of wild living in any way, but I had an enemy nestled deep within me that had the power to send me in completely wrong directions time after time. It took some big life directional changes for me to acknowledge and really accept my need for God. And I must say that since I made a decision to turn the reigns of my life over to the Lord, things have changed a whole lot – for the better!
We all believe that we are capable of handling life on our own but truly, a life apart from God is not life at all. With the recent turn of events around the world, many are learning that placing hopes and dreams in material possessions and assets can suddenly come to nothing. Some have committed suicide over the loss of all they had their hopes hinged upon and many are on anti-depressants. The only true secure anchor for life is God Almighty. No one else has the power to get us through our tenure on earth if we are to have the abundant life that He promises.
If you are trying to get through your life on your own and in your own strength; ask God into your life today. Ask Him for help. Not a single one of us is any good apart from God.
I remember very vividly what my life was like when I tried to live it in my own strength. It was a glorious mess. I kept tripping and falling over myself. I would do well for a while and then a bad decision will suddenly send me ten steps backwards. It wasn’t as if I was into drugs, alcohol or any kind of wild living in any way, but I had an enemy nestled deep within me that had the power to send me in completely wrong directions time after time. It took some big life directional changes for me to acknowledge and really accept my need for God. And I must say that since I made a decision to turn the reigns of my life over to the Lord, things have changed a whole lot – for the better!
We all believe that we are capable of handling life on our own but truly, a life apart from God is not life at all. With the recent turn of events around the world, many are learning that placing hopes and dreams in material possessions and assets can suddenly come to nothing. Some have committed suicide over the loss of all they had their hopes hinged upon and many are on anti-depressants. The only true secure anchor for life is God Almighty. No one else has the power to get us through our tenure on earth if we are to have the abundant life that He promises.
If you are trying to get through your life on your own and in your own strength; ask God into your life today. Ask Him for help. Not a single one of us is any good apart from God.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Selfish Living
Turn my heart towards your statutes and not toward selfish gain. – Psalm 119:36
The world’s economies are all in trouble. In the US, the executives on Wall Street walked away with close to $18.6 billion dollars as the financial markets plunged into a deep recession. One “financier” collected over $60 billion dollars from many people in what amounted to a pansy scheme. Others are allocating millions in bonus pay from tax-payers monies given to them to help bail them out, to their greedy executives. People are being rewarded for doing a dismal job! Painfully, because of the selfishness and greed of many, ordinary people are being left homeless and jobless. Selfish gain has become the order of the day where everyone is simply looking out for their own individual needs. People in power continue to lie and scheme and chase after their own personal agendas while endangering the lives of many around the world.
The attitude of the Wall Street executives has been described as being shameless but I believe that to be a mild description. These people are responsible for the collapse of many corporations yet they are walking the earth free to enjoy their loot. They unashamedly gutted organizations, disinterested in the “regular” people and focused entirely on living for self. The sad truth is money may take care of many problems but it does not solve any of the ones that matter. Money is also a spirit such that no matter how much you get, you can never be totally satisfied. You will be forever looking for another opportunity to get more. I am yet to meet a billionaire who is tired of amassing money.
Unfortunately if you are one of the ones whose heart is set on money and your love for money is what motivates and consumes your life, you will never know real peace. Until you make a decision to take your mind off the things of the riches of this world and focus on God, you will spend your entire life chasing shadows.
The world’s economies are all in trouble. In the US, the executives on Wall Street walked away with close to $18.6 billion dollars as the financial markets plunged into a deep recession. One “financier” collected over $60 billion dollars from many people in what amounted to a pansy scheme. Others are allocating millions in bonus pay from tax-payers monies given to them to help bail them out, to their greedy executives. People are being rewarded for doing a dismal job! Painfully, because of the selfishness and greed of many, ordinary people are being left homeless and jobless. Selfish gain has become the order of the day where everyone is simply looking out for their own individual needs. People in power continue to lie and scheme and chase after their own personal agendas while endangering the lives of many around the world.
The attitude of the Wall Street executives has been described as being shameless but I believe that to be a mild description. These people are responsible for the collapse of many corporations yet they are walking the earth free to enjoy their loot. They unashamedly gutted organizations, disinterested in the “regular” people and focused entirely on living for self. The sad truth is money may take care of many problems but it does not solve any of the ones that matter. Money is also a spirit such that no matter how much you get, you can never be totally satisfied. You will be forever looking for another opportunity to get more. I am yet to meet a billionaire who is tired of amassing money.
Unfortunately if you are one of the ones whose heart is set on money and your love for money is what motivates and consumes your life, you will never know real peace. Until you make a decision to take your mind off the things of the riches of this world and focus on God, you will spend your entire life chasing shadows.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
What Exactly Are Your Motives?
You want something but don’t get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures. – James 4:2-3
We all pray and make our requests known to God. But God does not hand out gifts based on how eloquent our prayers are; rather he examines the motives behind our requests. If what are asking for is in line with the purposes of God and the timing is right, God will honor our prayers. However if our requests are geared towards satisfying our selfish and fleshy desires, regardless of how we present our prayers, God shines a light into our heart and can see very clearly the wrong motives that we have.
When we do not see a move of God in an area where we have asked for his help, it may be that what we are asking for is not God’s best for us. It may also be that the timing is not right or better still, God may have a completely different way of meeting our needs. God is always the initiator and we are the responders. We never tell God what to do. God already has a plan for our lives from the very moment we were formed in the womb. If we ask for something that is not in line with His plan for our lives, we will not receive it. If our motives are not right and our hearts are far from Him, our prayers may very well go unanswered.
Next time you make a request to God, examine your motives. Are you seeking for your will or for God’s will to be done? Remember God’s purposes supersede our own and will always prevail.
We all pray and make our requests known to God. But God does not hand out gifts based on how eloquent our prayers are; rather he examines the motives behind our requests. If what are asking for is in line with the purposes of God and the timing is right, God will honor our prayers. However if our requests are geared towards satisfying our selfish and fleshy desires, regardless of how we present our prayers, God shines a light into our heart and can see very clearly the wrong motives that we have.
When we do not see a move of God in an area where we have asked for his help, it may be that what we are asking for is not God’s best for us. It may also be that the timing is not right or better still, God may have a completely different way of meeting our needs. God is always the initiator and we are the responders. We never tell God what to do. God already has a plan for our lives from the very moment we were formed in the womb. If we ask for something that is not in line with His plan for our lives, we will not receive it. If our motives are not right and our hearts are far from Him, our prayers may very well go unanswered.
Next time you make a request to God, examine your motives. Are you seeking for your will or for God’s will to be done? Remember God’s purposes supersede our own and will always prevail.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
An Attitude of Praise
Having received these orders, he put them into the inner cell and fastened their feet in leg irons. Around midnight, Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly, there was an earthquake so violent that the foundations of the prison were shaken. All the doors immediately flew open, and everyone's chains were unfastened. – Acts 16:24-26
I would like to think that I would respond in the same way as Paul and Silas under the exact same circumstances but I am not so sure. These guys were falsely accused, arrested, beaten, tortured and thrown into jail with their feet fastened in leg irons yet they kept an attitude of praise. They did not waste their time murmuring and complaining about how unfair life was. They did not try to lower their standards and compromise their faith by denying what they believed. They were prepared to die for their faith.
The other prisoners probably thought that they were crazy and had lost their minds. They probably wondered what singing and praising would do in that kind of situation. They probably believed that Paul and Silas were wasting their time. Instead of throwing a fit, they began to sing and worship God. God, we know, loves to inhabit the praises of his people so what happened next was a miracle. God sent an earthquake that opened all the prison doors and broke all the chains. God set them free because when we praise God, He sets us free from bondage.
If you feel trapped and in bondage in your life today, develop an attitude of praise toward God. Sing and praise His name and He will surely set you free. God has not given us a spirit of fear and intimidation. We have been blessed to have strong and fit minds as part of our spiritual inheritance. Claim what is rightfully yours as a believer today. Refuse to live an extra day in the prison of your mind.
I would like to think that I would respond in the same way as Paul and Silas under the exact same circumstances but I am not so sure. These guys were falsely accused, arrested, beaten, tortured and thrown into jail with their feet fastened in leg irons yet they kept an attitude of praise. They did not waste their time murmuring and complaining about how unfair life was. They did not try to lower their standards and compromise their faith by denying what they believed. They were prepared to die for their faith.
The other prisoners probably thought that they were crazy and had lost their minds. They probably wondered what singing and praising would do in that kind of situation. They probably believed that Paul and Silas were wasting their time. Instead of throwing a fit, they began to sing and worship God. God, we know, loves to inhabit the praises of his people so what happened next was a miracle. God sent an earthquake that opened all the prison doors and broke all the chains. God set them free because when we praise God, He sets us free from bondage.
If you feel trapped and in bondage in your life today, develop an attitude of praise toward God. Sing and praise His name and He will surely set you free. God has not given us a spirit of fear and intimidation. We have been blessed to have strong and fit minds as part of our spiritual inheritance. Claim what is rightfully yours as a believer today. Refuse to live an extra day in the prison of your mind.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
A Simple Key to Prosperity
"Then you will prosper, if you are careful to observe the statutes and the ordinances which the LORD commanded Moses concerning Israel. Be strong and courageous, do not fear nor be dismayed.” – 1 Chronicles 22:13
God’s economy is not at all complicated yet we find it difficult to follow the simple rules. The most fundamental law that governs life and the universe is the law of sowing and reaping which means that you get what you put out. It means that you cannot plant tomatoes and come around to reap potatoes. It is also true that there is sowing time and harvest time. You cannot reap and sow in the same timeframe that is why the Bible commands us not to be weary in well-doing and that in due season we will reap if we do not give up.
If we follow the principles for living outlined in the believer’s manual for life (the Bible), we will prosper – regardless of what is going on around us. We will prosper in the things that matter in the Kingdom of God. We may not be rich but we will never beg for bread. We will be strong in the spirit and our eyes will be on the Lord as our Only Sustainer and Provider. We will have joy and a peace that surpasses all understanding in spite of the circumstances that surround us.
Even if you are passing through a difficult time during this devastating economic downturn, don’t waste your energy grieving over the stuff you have lost. Instead, pick yourself up understanding that you are strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Know that no weapon formed against you shall prosper. Know that what is happening know may hurt you and you may be grossly disappointed but it will never harm you nor kill you because you have God in your corner. Keep up the fight of faith and God will replenish all that you have lost a hundred fold.
God’s economy is not at all complicated yet we find it difficult to follow the simple rules. The most fundamental law that governs life and the universe is the law of sowing and reaping which means that you get what you put out. It means that you cannot plant tomatoes and come around to reap potatoes. It is also true that there is sowing time and harvest time. You cannot reap and sow in the same timeframe that is why the Bible commands us not to be weary in well-doing and that in due season we will reap if we do not give up.
If we follow the principles for living outlined in the believer’s manual for life (the Bible), we will prosper – regardless of what is going on around us. We will prosper in the things that matter in the Kingdom of God. We may not be rich but we will never beg for bread. We will be strong in the spirit and our eyes will be on the Lord as our Only Sustainer and Provider. We will have joy and a peace that surpasses all understanding in spite of the circumstances that surround us.
Even if you are passing through a difficult time during this devastating economic downturn, don’t waste your energy grieving over the stuff you have lost. Instead, pick yourself up understanding that you are strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Know that no weapon formed against you shall prosper. Know that what is happening know may hurt you and you may be grossly disappointed but it will never harm you nor kill you because you have God in your corner. Keep up the fight of faith and God will replenish all that you have lost a hundred fold.
Monday, March 16, 2009
Don’t Give Up; Never Give In
Love does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth. Love never stops being patient, never stops believing, never stops hoping, never gives up. – 1 Corinthians 13:6-7
Many of us exercise to keep our bodies strong, but it never occurs to us that we can exercise our spirit and our faith. What makes one persevere and hold on for the long haul? What makes another give up instantly at the sight of obstacles? Many of us give up far too easily on our goals and dreams. When we expect certain things to be forthcoming and pretty straightforward and they are not, we decide that it’s too difficult to press forward. The truth is nothing good and lasting will come without a fight. Nothing great comes easy. Whatever we are going to achieve in terms of success will only come with some level of sacrifice. Many of us have completely forgotten what it means to sacrifice.
Sacrifice is only possible when accompanied by faith. When we believe so much in what we are pursuing even though we cannot actually see it yet in the physical, we are willing to sacrifice in order to achieve it. I am not saying that disappointment is not a fact of life when things go wrong. Yes we can be disappointed and even discouraged but the key is that we entertain these negative emotions only for a short while. It is important to take some time to nurse our wounds but we must get back in the saddle and keep pressing forward. When we get knocked down, we must get back up again.
So how do we learn how to get back up again and keep going? We get victory over disappointments and failures by developing our spirit. We must be people with a strong spirit. We must know and believe that what the Word of God says concerning our lives is true. We must first love God and then love ourselves enough to never stop believing; never stop hoping and most of all to never give up.
Many of us exercise to keep our bodies strong, but it never occurs to us that we can exercise our spirit and our faith. What makes one persevere and hold on for the long haul? What makes another give up instantly at the sight of obstacles? Many of us give up far too easily on our goals and dreams. When we expect certain things to be forthcoming and pretty straightforward and they are not, we decide that it’s too difficult to press forward. The truth is nothing good and lasting will come without a fight. Nothing great comes easy. Whatever we are going to achieve in terms of success will only come with some level of sacrifice. Many of us have completely forgotten what it means to sacrifice.
Sacrifice is only possible when accompanied by faith. When we believe so much in what we are pursuing even though we cannot actually see it yet in the physical, we are willing to sacrifice in order to achieve it. I am not saying that disappointment is not a fact of life when things go wrong. Yes we can be disappointed and even discouraged but the key is that we entertain these negative emotions only for a short while. It is important to take some time to nurse our wounds but we must get back in the saddle and keep pressing forward. When we get knocked down, we must get back up again.
So how do we learn how to get back up again and keep going? We get victory over disappointments and failures by developing our spirit. We must be people with a strong spirit. We must know and believe that what the Word of God says concerning our lives is true. We must first love God and then love ourselves enough to never stop believing; never stop hoping and most of all to never give up.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
We All Have Something To Give
Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. – Philippians 2:1-2
I have heard people say that giving is a spiritual gift and as such not everyone has it. I agree with this theory but only at some level. Giving is a good thing and all good things come from God so in that context saying that giving is a spiritual gift is true. But labeling yourself as not having a giving spirit is not a great thing. We must all have the spirit of giving all the time; not just on Christmas or Valentine’s Day.
Giving should not be restricted to just money. We can give our time, our compassion and empathy. We can give a smile or encouragement to a friend going through a difficult time. It is especially important to give in areas where we are expecting a breakthrough from God. If you are longing to have a child of your own, volunteer to work in your church’s children’s ministry. Go to your local children’s hospital and cuddle a sick child. If you have a teenager at home who is rebellious, volunteer to speak to teens at your local schools about the dangers that they face as they move into adulthood. If you need a job, work for free at your church’s coffee shop or administrative office. Give in the area that you are waiting on God for.
If we take a closer look at what we have, we will find that we all have something that we can give; we all have something special that the world needs. We can all develop the spiritual gift of giving.
I have heard people say that giving is a spiritual gift and as such not everyone has it. I agree with this theory but only at some level. Giving is a good thing and all good things come from God so in that context saying that giving is a spiritual gift is true. But labeling yourself as not having a giving spirit is not a great thing. We must all have the spirit of giving all the time; not just on Christmas or Valentine’s Day.
Giving should not be restricted to just money. We can give our time, our compassion and empathy. We can give a smile or encouragement to a friend going through a difficult time. It is especially important to give in areas where we are expecting a breakthrough from God. If you are longing to have a child of your own, volunteer to work in your church’s children’s ministry. Go to your local children’s hospital and cuddle a sick child. If you have a teenager at home who is rebellious, volunteer to speak to teens at your local schools about the dangers that they face as they move into adulthood. If you need a job, work for free at your church’s coffee shop or administrative office. Give in the area that you are waiting on God for.
If we take a closer look at what we have, we will find that we all have something that we can give; we all have something special that the world needs. We can all develop the spiritual gift of giving.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Our God Has a Plan
The counsel of the LORD stands forever, the plans of His heart from generation to generation. – Psalm 33:11
Many plans are in a man's heart, but the counsel of the LORD will stand. – Proverbs. – Proverbs 19:21
Many, O LORD my God, are the wonders which you have done, and your thoughts toward us; there is none to compare with you. If I would declare and speak of them, they would be too numerous to count. – Proverbs 40:5
Our God is a God of strategy and not one of confusion. Even when things look a mess in the physical, God has a plan. When we spend our valuable time worrying and fussing about the difficult circumstances in our lives, we run the risk of completely missing out on the new things that God is trying to bring our way. The Bible tells us that God is always doing anew thing, the question is whether we can actually perceive it. The Word of God is right and perfect; His promises are exactly what we need in our lives. His plan for us is more than adequate to bring us to the place we need to be in. Whatever God does, stands forever. His plan stands from ever-lasting to ever-lasting. It never changes; He never changes.
Regardless of what you are experiencing right now, take your attention off of yourself and onto God. Trust in Him with all your heart and your soul. He has a plan for your life. Nothing that is going on is a surprise to Him. He has the power to work it all out for your ultimate good.
Many plans are in a man's heart, but the counsel of the LORD will stand. – Proverbs. – Proverbs 19:21
Many, O LORD my God, are the wonders which you have done, and your thoughts toward us; there is none to compare with you. If I would declare and speak of them, they would be too numerous to count. – Proverbs 40:5
Our God is a God of strategy and not one of confusion. Even when things look a mess in the physical, God has a plan. When we spend our valuable time worrying and fussing about the difficult circumstances in our lives, we run the risk of completely missing out on the new things that God is trying to bring our way. The Bible tells us that God is always doing anew thing, the question is whether we can actually perceive it. The Word of God is right and perfect; His promises are exactly what we need in our lives. His plan for us is more than adequate to bring us to the place we need to be in. Whatever God does, stands forever. His plan stands from ever-lasting to ever-lasting. It never changes; He never changes.
Regardless of what you are experiencing right now, take your attention off of yourself and onto God. Trust in Him with all your heart and your soul. He has a plan for your life. Nothing that is going on is a surprise to Him. He has the power to work it all out for your ultimate good.
Friday, March 13, 2009
The Spirit Gives Life
The Spirit gives life: the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you are spirit and they are life. – John 6:63
Thank God for the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. As we come into the family of God and receive the gift of salvation, the Holy Spirit comes to dwell inside of us to guide us and lead us the way God will have us walk. The more we learn the ways of God, the more we are able to walk in the Spirit and the less we succumb to the evil desires of the flesh. We very quickly learn that the flesh is no good on its own and only the Spirit can guide us to do the right thing. We understand that the flesh and the Spirit are in a constant war; each trying to stake its claim to leadership over our lives.
Unfortunately we sometimes ignore the still, small voice of the Spirit telling us what we ought to do and we follow the whims of the flesh. The problem with this choice is we find ourselves swimming in a hot pool of troubled waters in no time. The flesh really has no good opinions or advice on its own. The Spirit is what guides us and gives life. So how do we know the desires of the flesh as opposed to those of the Spirit? The desires of the flesh almost always contradict the Word of God and the desires of the Spirit never do. The Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit are triune so anything the Spirit directs us to do is in line with what God wants us to do.
The Spirit has one aim – to lead us in the way that will fulfill God’s purpose for our lives.
Thank God for the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. As we come into the family of God and receive the gift of salvation, the Holy Spirit comes to dwell inside of us to guide us and lead us the way God will have us walk. The more we learn the ways of God, the more we are able to walk in the Spirit and the less we succumb to the evil desires of the flesh. We very quickly learn that the flesh is no good on its own and only the Spirit can guide us to do the right thing. We understand that the flesh and the Spirit are in a constant war; each trying to stake its claim to leadership over our lives.
Unfortunately we sometimes ignore the still, small voice of the Spirit telling us what we ought to do and we follow the whims of the flesh. The problem with this choice is we find ourselves swimming in a hot pool of troubled waters in no time. The flesh really has no good opinions or advice on its own. The Spirit is what guides us and gives life. So how do we know the desires of the flesh as opposed to those of the Spirit? The desires of the flesh almost always contradict the Word of God and the desires of the Spirit never do. The Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit are triune so anything the Spirit directs us to do is in line with what God wants us to do.
The Spirit has one aim – to lead us in the way that will fulfill God’s purpose for our lives.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Waiting for God
Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord. – Psalm 28:14
But those that hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. – Isaiah 40:31
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. – Galatians 6:9
Waiting is difficult. It is especially hard when there is a “deadline” that we are expecting God to show up on or before. The repo guys have come and taken the car, the electricity and cable has been cut off and the bank is just about to take the house. What do you do when God is silent? The answer is – you wait. You continue to wait understanding that the same God who provided the job, the car and the house will do it again. Believe that the very same God who gave you all that you have now lost will replenish it all a hundred fold. Take heart and know that losing “stuff” does not signify the end of the world. You still have the most important thing of all – a heart that beats for God and longs after him – no one can ever take that away from you.
When we go through loss, it may seem that the whole world is coming to an end. The enemy of our soul uses opportunities such as these, when are feeling down and out to tell us that God is not listening and that he won’t come to our aid. But the devil is a liar and he will always be a liar. God is always for you and never against you. He will be there and He will be right on time. Keep your heart and you mind firm. Do not waver. Accept disappointment when it comes, knowing that help is on the way. Don’t be weary while doing well. When we get tired, it is often a sign that the battle is almost over but it is also a season when most give up on their hopes and dreams.
Hold on; do not let anyone steal away from you what you have worked hard and waited so long for. All your trouble, heartache and pain will all soon come to pass.
But those that hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. – Isaiah 40:31
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. – Galatians 6:9
Waiting is difficult. It is especially hard when there is a “deadline” that we are expecting God to show up on or before. The repo guys have come and taken the car, the electricity and cable has been cut off and the bank is just about to take the house. What do you do when God is silent? The answer is – you wait. You continue to wait understanding that the same God who provided the job, the car and the house will do it again. Believe that the very same God who gave you all that you have now lost will replenish it all a hundred fold. Take heart and know that losing “stuff” does not signify the end of the world. You still have the most important thing of all – a heart that beats for God and longs after him – no one can ever take that away from you.
When we go through loss, it may seem that the whole world is coming to an end. The enemy of our soul uses opportunities such as these, when are feeling down and out to tell us that God is not listening and that he won’t come to our aid. But the devil is a liar and he will always be a liar. God is always for you and never against you. He will be there and He will be right on time. Keep your heart and you mind firm. Do not waver. Accept disappointment when it comes, knowing that help is on the way. Don’t be weary while doing well. When we get tired, it is often a sign that the battle is almost over but it is also a season when most give up on their hopes and dreams.
Hold on; do not let anyone steal away from you what you have worked hard and waited so long for. All your trouble, heartache and pain will all soon come to pass.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Mary and Martha - A Modern Woman's World
As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” “Martha, Martha, “ the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” – Luke 10:38-42
To be a successful wife, mother and career woman, sacrifices must be made. First, a woman must understand what the Bible says about being busy. The story of Mary and Martha immediately comes to mind (Luke 10:38-42). Martha is the CEO of the evening. She is executing her role well, running around cleaning, cooking and serving. Then there’s Mary – she takes no interest in making things happen in the kitchen. She was content to sit at the feet of Jesus and feed her higher self.
This passage of scripture is key to anyone who may be finding it difficult to balance what is important versus what is urgent. I understand that I cannot sit home all day, all week, and all year praying and studying the Bible. Neither can I go into the office and work day and night to satisfy an earthly master. God calls for us to be rational with our faith. What I must do well is feed my spirit first and work later to earn a living.
To me, “having it all” means being a proportionate blend of Mary and Martha. It means using the wisdom I gain through my time as Mary to manage my time perfectly when I am functioning as Martha. When I am being Mary, I learn to not only see time from a chronological perspective, but most importantly from a quality perspective. Being Mary at the appropriate time, allows me to understand the great difference between being fruitful and being “busy”. The important key for every “busy” woman is to understand when to be Mary and when to be Martha.
Constantly being Martha keeps us busy all the time and may bring the career aspirations and wealth that we desire but it does absolutely nothing for the soul and all the rewards we’ll ever get from it is what we can physically see in this realm. On the other hand, being Mary for the appropriate time helps us store treasures in heaven and makes us extra productive during the period we are being Martha. While we are at the feet of Jesus being Mary, things are revealed to us that we will never see if we are focused on being Martha all the time.
In order to avoid drowning in the sea of busyness, the first thing every woman must do when she rises in the morning and before she lays her head down to rest at night is be Mary. If you are like me, you will want to be Mary intermittently throughout your day while you are doubling as Martha. A smart woman knows that truly only one thing is needed. With proper time management and the ability to keep the main thing the main thing, anything is possible. You can have the career you dream of without compromising your family life. When you walk hand in hand with God who has the power to make all things possible, you can truly get there.
To be a successful wife, mother and career woman, sacrifices must be made. First, a woman must understand what the Bible says about being busy. The story of Mary and Martha immediately comes to mind (Luke 10:38-42). Martha is the CEO of the evening. She is executing her role well, running around cleaning, cooking and serving. Then there’s Mary – she takes no interest in making things happen in the kitchen. She was content to sit at the feet of Jesus and feed her higher self.
This passage of scripture is key to anyone who may be finding it difficult to balance what is important versus what is urgent. I understand that I cannot sit home all day, all week, and all year praying and studying the Bible. Neither can I go into the office and work day and night to satisfy an earthly master. God calls for us to be rational with our faith. What I must do well is feed my spirit first and work later to earn a living.
To me, “having it all” means being a proportionate blend of Mary and Martha. It means using the wisdom I gain through my time as Mary to manage my time perfectly when I am functioning as Martha. When I am being Mary, I learn to not only see time from a chronological perspective, but most importantly from a quality perspective. Being Mary at the appropriate time, allows me to understand the great difference between being fruitful and being “busy”. The important key for every “busy” woman is to understand when to be Mary and when to be Martha.
Constantly being Martha keeps us busy all the time and may bring the career aspirations and wealth that we desire but it does absolutely nothing for the soul and all the rewards we’ll ever get from it is what we can physically see in this realm. On the other hand, being Mary for the appropriate time helps us store treasures in heaven and makes us extra productive during the period we are being Martha. While we are at the feet of Jesus being Mary, things are revealed to us that we will never see if we are focused on being Martha all the time.
In order to avoid drowning in the sea of busyness, the first thing every woman must do when she rises in the morning and before she lays her head down to rest at night is be Mary. If you are like me, you will want to be Mary intermittently throughout your day while you are doubling as Martha. A smart woman knows that truly only one thing is needed. With proper time management and the ability to keep the main thing the main thing, anything is possible. You can have the career you dream of without compromising your family life. When you walk hand in hand with God who has the power to make all things possible, you can truly get there.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Living By Faith
“Have faith in God,” Jesus answered. “I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” – Mark 12:22-26
As believers, we walk by faith and not by sight. We are to call those things that are not as though they already are. We are to see spiritually first before a physical manifestation appears. What we get in life is all centered on what we can actutally see physically - but most importantly spiritually. What we see influences what we do, which in turn dictates what we get. If we get a situation in our lives that we did not previously anticipate, how we see things will determine how we will react to our situation and what the results we’ll ultimately get in our lives.
When we pray to God, we must first understand that our prayers must never contradict the Word of God. If we are holding people in un-forgiveness for any reason(s), we must release them to God and eradicate any bitterness we are carrying in our hearts. We cannot pray evil against other people or ask for things that interfere with the purposes of God. As we pray, we must believe that God hears us and that He will do what we have asked in His time and in His own way. Our earthly fathers give us gifts and do what we ask (within reason!), how much more our Heavenly Father wants to do for us.
Faith in God and actions that demonstrate our faith is the key to success in God’s economy. If we say with our mouths that we believe in God and the promises laid out in His Word concerning our lives, it’s time to begin to demonstrate and work out our faith. When we do this, powerful things begin to happen in our lives and in the piece of the world around us.
As believers, we walk by faith and not by sight. We are to call those things that are not as though they already are. We are to see spiritually first before a physical manifestation appears. What we get in life is all centered on what we can actutally see physically - but most importantly spiritually. What we see influences what we do, which in turn dictates what we get. If we get a situation in our lives that we did not previously anticipate, how we see things will determine how we will react to our situation and what the results we’ll ultimately get in our lives.
When we pray to God, we must first understand that our prayers must never contradict the Word of God. If we are holding people in un-forgiveness for any reason(s), we must release them to God and eradicate any bitterness we are carrying in our hearts. We cannot pray evil against other people or ask for things that interfere with the purposes of God. As we pray, we must believe that God hears us and that He will do what we have asked in His time and in His own way. Our earthly fathers give us gifts and do what we ask (within reason!), how much more our Heavenly Father wants to do for us.
Faith in God and actions that demonstrate our faith is the key to success in God’s economy. If we say with our mouths that we believe in God and the promises laid out in His Word concerning our lives, it’s time to begin to demonstrate and work out our faith. When we do this, powerful things begin to happen in our lives and in the piece of the world around us.
Monday, March 9, 2009
The Spirit of Compassion
“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” – Luke 6:37
We all have issues in life. No one is without their own faults and imperfections. Some are great at hiding their dysfunction behind closed doors a lot better than others so they appear as if their lives couldn’t be better. Others, either by choice or position have to live their entire existence in the public eye so all their problems become privy to all. The media makes it so easy to see and judge the fall of human beings just like us. Even though we may have bigger issues than they do, we can sit safely on our couch at home and be grateful for the somewhat secret lives we are able to lead.
I felt very sorry for a teenage pop star recently accused of beating up his girlfriend. Even though I did not condone his conduct, I felt bad for him. I can only imagine the immense pressure he has to live with on a day to day basis. I remember when I was his age, I didn’t hit anyone but I sure did some things I am not proud of. When I learnt how his mother also had issues with abuse, I understood his plight even more. All in all, he is just a young man who did the wrong thing and must seek help for his anger so that history does not keep repeating itself. Truth be told, unless we have walked in his shoes and lived his life, endured his experiences, who are we to judge?
The Bible reminds us not to judge others or we will be judge and in the same verse, we are reminded to forgive so that we can be forgiven. Learning to look past the faults and mistakes of others and reach out a helping hand of compassion comes with maturity. There will be more people holding rocks to throw at the accuser than those who are willing to reach out and say “Everything will be okay”. We must do all that we can to develop a spirit of compassion. We must desist from judging and condemning others because they happen to fall. We will all fall at some point in our lives – spiritually, financially or emotionally; it is only time that differs.
We all have issues in life. No one is without their own faults and imperfections. Some are great at hiding their dysfunction behind closed doors a lot better than others so they appear as if their lives couldn’t be better. Others, either by choice or position have to live their entire existence in the public eye so all their problems become privy to all. The media makes it so easy to see and judge the fall of human beings just like us. Even though we may have bigger issues than they do, we can sit safely on our couch at home and be grateful for the somewhat secret lives we are able to lead.
I felt very sorry for a teenage pop star recently accused of beating up his girlfriend. Even though I did not condone his conduct, I felt bad for him. I can only imagine the immense pressure he has to live with on a day to day basis. I remember when I was his age, I didn’t hit anyone but I sure did some things I am not proud of. When I learnt how his mother also had issues with abuse, I understood his plight even more. All in all, he is just a young man who did the wrong thing and must seek help for his anger so that history does not keep repeating itself. Truth be told, unless we have walked in his shoes and lived his life, endured his experiences, who are we to judge?
The Bible reminds us not to judge others or we will be judge and in the same verse, we are reminded to forgive so that we can be forgiven. Learning to look past the faults and mistakes of others and reach out a helping hand of compassion comes with maturity. There will be more people holding rocks to throw at the accuser than those who are willing to reach out and say “Everything will be okay”. We must do all that we can to develop a spirit of compassion. We must desist from judging and condemning others because they happen to fall. We will all fall at some point in our lives – spiritually, financially or emotionally; it is only time that differs.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
A Crooked Family
As he was about to enter Egypt he said to his wife Sarai, “I know what a beautiful woman you are. When the Egyptians see you, they will say, ‘This is his wife.’ Then they will kill me but will let you live. Say you are my sister, so that I will be treated well for your sake and my life will be spared because of you.” – Genesis 12:11-13
When the men of that place asked him about his wife, he said, “She is my sister,” because he was afraid to say, “She is my wife.” He thought, “The men of this place might kill me on account of Rebekah, because she is beautiful.” – Genesis 26:7
Once when Jacob was cooking some stew, Esau came in from the open country, famished. He said to Jacob, “Quick, let me have some of that red stew! I’m famished!” Jacob replied, “First sell me your birthright.” “Look, I am about to die,” Esau said, “What good is the birthright to me?” But Jacob said “Swear to me first.” So he swore an oath to him, selling his birthright to Jacob. –Genesis 25:29-33
Rebekah said to her son Jacob, “Look, I overheard your father say to your brother Esau, ‘Bring me some game and prepare me some tasty food to eat, so that I may give you my blessing in the presence of the Lord before I die.’ Now my son, listen carefully and do what I tell you: Go out to the flock and bring me tow choice young goats, so I can prepare some tasty food for your father, just the way he likes it. Then take it to your father to eat so that he may give you his blessings before he dies.” – Genesis 27:6-10
Jacob went close to his father Isaac, who touched him and said, “The voice is the voice of Jacob but the hands are the hands of Esau. He did not recognize him, for his hands were hairy like those of his brother Esau; so he blessed him. “Are you really my son Esau?” he asked. “I am.” He replied. – Genesis 27:22-24
Then Jacob said to Laban, “Give me my wife. My time is completed, and I want to lie with her.” So Laban brought together all the people of the place and gave a feast. But when evening came, he took his daughter Leah and gave her to Jacob, and Jacob lay with her. And Laban gave his servant girl Zilpah to his daughter as her maidservant. When morning came, there was Leah! So Jacob said to Laban, “What is this you have done to me? I served you for Rachel, didn’t I? Why have you deceived me?” - Genesis 29:21-25
Starting with Abraham, the entire clan was one filled with liars and crooks. Abraham lied to Abimelech that Sarai was his sister. Isaac told exactly the same lie to the same man about his wife Rebekah. Jacob, whose name actually means crooked, used food as a means to convince his brother Esau sell off his birthright. Rebekah helped Jacob deceive Isaac into believing that Jacob was Esau by making Jacob wear Esau’s clothes and putting goatskins on his hands and neck. Because Isaac was old and his eyes were weak, he was conned into giving Jacob the blessing that was meant for Esau. Uncle Laban was no better when it came to character and integrity, he made Jacob work seven years for Rachel and ended up giving him Leah. For Jacob to get Rachel, he had to work another seven years!
This family was not perfect but God blessed Abraham, Isaac and Jacob regardless. Reading their stories brings me great comfort as I know that God is not looking for perfection but He is more interested in the state of my heart. If we were all perfect or had the ability to be perfect in our own flesh then Christ would have died for nothing. Jesus Christ took upon Himself the sins of the entire world so that we can approach the throne of God with faith and confidence.
Regardless of where you’ve been or the background/pedigree you come from, God has a plan for your life. Don’t ever think that you are not worthy enough to come to Christ. The Bible is filled with many great men and women of God who stumbled time and time again. Take courage, come to God in repentance and He will take you places you never ever dreamt or imagined.
When the men of that place asked him about his wife, he said, “She is my sister,” because he was afraid to say, “She is my wife.” He thought, “The men of this place might kill me on account of Rebekah, because she is beautiful.” – Genesis 26:7
Once when Jacob was cooking some stew, Esau came in from the open country, famished. He said to Jacob, “Quick, let me have some of that red stew! I’m famished!” Jacob replied, “First sell me your birthright.” “Look, I am about to die,” Esau said, “What good is the birthright to me?” But Jacob said “Swear to me first.” So he swore an oath to him, selling his birthright to Jacob. –Genesis 25:29-33
Rebekah said to her son Jacob, “Look, I overheard your father say to your brother Esau, ‘Bring me some game and prepare me some tasty food to eat, so that I may give you my blessing in the presence of the Lord before I die.’ Now my son, listen carefully and do what I tell you: Go out to the flock and bring me tow choice young goats, so I can prepare some tasty food for your father, just the way he likes it. Then take it to your father to eat so that he may give you his blessings before he dies.” – Genesis 27:6-10
Jacob went close to his father Isaac, who touched him and said, “The voice is the voice of Jacob but the hands are the hands of Esau. He did not recognize him, for his hands were hairy like those of his brother Esau; so he blessed him. “Are you really my son Esau?” he asked. “I am.” He replied. – Genesis 27:22-24
Then Jacob said to Laban, “Give me my wife. My time is completed, and I want to lie with her.” So Laban brought together all the people of the place and gave a feast. But when evening came, he took his daughter Leah and gave her to Jacob, and Jacob lay with her. And Laban gave his servant girl Zilpah to his daughter as her maidservant. When morning came, there was Leah! So Jacob said to Laban, “What is this you have done to me? I served you for Rachel, didn’t I? Why have you deceived me?” - Genesis 29:21-25
Starting with Abraham, the entire clan was one filled with liars and crooks. Abraham lied to Abimelech that Sarai was his sister. Isaac told exactly the same lie to the same man about his wife Rebekah. Jacob, whose name actually means crooked, used food as a means to convince his brother Esau sell off his birthright. Rebekah helped Jacob deceive Isaac into believing that Jacob was Esau by making Jacob wear Esau’s clothes and putting goatskins on his hands and neck. Because Isaac was old and his eyes were weak, he was conned into giving Jacob the blessing that was meant for Esau. Uncle Laban was no better when it came to character and integrity, he made Jacob work seven years for Rachel and ended up giving him Leah. For Jacob to get Rachel, he had to work another seven years!
This family was not perfect but God blessed Abraham, Isaac and Jacob regardless. Reading their stories brings me great comfort as I know that God is not looking for perfection but He is more interested in the state of my heart. If we were all perfect or had the ability to be perfect in our own flesh then Christ would have died for nothing. Jesus Christ took upon Himself the sins of the entire world so that we can approach the throne of God with faith and confidence.
Regardless of where you’ve been or the background/pedigree you come from, God has a plan for your life. Don’t ever think that you are not worthy enough to come to Christ. The Bible is filled with many great men and women of God who stumbled time and time again. Take courage, come to God in repentance and He will take you places you never ever dreamt or imagined.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Men - Be the Spiritual Head of Your Home
Isaac prayed to the Lord on behalf of his wife, because she was barren. The Lord answered his prayer and his wife Rebekah became pregnant. – Genesis 25:21
For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife and they will become one flesh. – Genesis 2:24
Tell the whole community of Israel that on the tenth day of this month each man is to take a lamb for his family, one for each household. – Exodus 12:3
Both men and women have unique roles to play in the kingdom of God. In the family arena, God has clearly instructed the man to take spiritual leadership in the home. In The Passover, God instructed each man to take a lamb for his family. They were instructed to smear the blood of the lamb on the doorframes of their houses so that the death angel can pass the over. Every man must have an encounter with the Lamb. Everyman must have a relationship with Jesus Christ in order for him to properly sit in his position of spiritual headship in the family.
When a man takes his proper place in the home, things run smoothly. In the area of church attendance and family prayer time, a man must take the lead. Isaac obviously took the spiritual lead in his marriage to Rebekah. He prayed about her barrenness and God answered his prayer. He interceded for his wife and God opened her womb.
Men, take your rightful positions in the home. Pray for your wives and your children. God expects nothing less from you.
For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife and they will become one flesh. – Genesis 2:24
Tell the whole community of Israel that on the tenth day of this month each man is to take a lamb for his family, one for each household. – Exodus 12:3
Both men and women have unique roles to play in the kingdom of God. In the family arena, God has clearly instructed the man to take spiritual leadership in the home. In The Passover, God instructed each man to take a lamb for his family. They were instructed to smear the blood of the lamb on the doorframes of their houses so that the death angel can pass the over. Every man must have an encounter with the Lamb. Everyman must have a relationship with Jesus Christ in order for him to properly sit in his position of spiritual headship in the family.
When a man takes his proper place in the home, things run smoothly. In the area of church attendance and family prayer time, a man must take the lead. Isaac obviously took the spiritual lead in his marriage to Rebekah. He prayed about her barrenness and God answered his prayer. He interceded for his wife and God opened her womb.
Men, take your rightful positions in the home. Pray for your wives and your children. God expects nothing less from you.
Friday, March 6, 2009
God Hears All Prayers
Then he prayed, “O Lord, God of my master Abraham, give me success today, and show kindness to my master Abraham. See I am standing beside this spring, and the daughters of the towns-people are coming out to draw water, May it be that when I say to a girl, ‘Please let down your jar that I may have a drink,’ and she says, ‘Drink, and I’ll water your camels too’ – let her be the one you have chosen for your servant Isaac. By this I will know that you have shown kindness to my master.” Before he had finished praying, Rebekah came out with her jar on her shoulder. She was the daughter of Bethuel son of Milcah, who was the wife of Abraham’s brother Nahor. – Genesis 24:12-15
Abraham did not want his son to marry a Canaanite woman where he was living. He wanted his son to get a wife from his hometown in Nahor. He made his chief servant swear an oath that he will go and find a wife for Isaac. This servant understood the importance and the power of prayer. He went to God in prayer over his mission and asked for God’s directions. He prayed for success and God ordered his footsteps and led him right where he needed to go. The Bible records that even before he even finished praying, Rebekah came out to him. She was the one God had chosen for Abraham’s son Isaac and God brought right to him. How cool is that?
We must be rest assured that God hears our prayers. When we consult Him before we make any moves, He shows up and shows out on our behalf. He orders our footsteps and tells us what we ought to do. He sends us the right people to offer us assistance in the areas and at the right time. Our prayers must never cease because we serve a powerful God who is always listening and waiting to commune with us.
Abraham did not want his son to marry a Canaanite woman where he was living. He wanted his son to get a wife from his hometown in Nahor. He made his chief servant swear an oath that he will go and find a wife for Isaac. This servant understood the importance and the power of prayer. He went to God in prayer over his mission and asked for God’s directions. He prayed for success and God ordered his footsteps and led him right where he needed to go. The Bible records that even before he even finished praying, Rebekah came out to him. She was the one God had chosen for Abraham’s son Isaac and God brought right to him. How cool is that?
We must be rest assured that God hears our prayers. When we consult Him before we make any moves, He shows up and shows out on our behalf. He orders our footsteps and tells us what we ought to do. He sends us the right people to offer us assistance in the areas and at the right time. Our prayers must never cease because we serve a powerful God who is always listening and waiting to commune with us.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
God Sees
“You are the God who sees me,” for she said, “I have now seen the One who sees me.” – Genesis 16:13
Hagar had been sent away by her mistress, Sarai. She was pregnant and alone in the desert. She was desperate and had no one to turn to and the Lord saw her pain. He appeared to her and gave her instructions to follow.
Sometimes when all hell is breaking loose in our lives we feel lost and all alone. We cry and we pray and wonder if God sees or hears us. The enemy will use this difficult time to tell us that no one is listening and that God does not care. But this is so not true. God cares about us so much that he numbered every strand of hair on our heads. He loves us so much that He gave up His Only Son as an atonement for the sins of all mankind.
God sees and hears all. He sees us when we are in pain and anguish. He hears all our prayers as we call onto Him in desperation. God is always there to comfort and to provide.
Hagar had been sent away by her mistress, Sarai. She was pregnant and alone in the desert. She was desperate and had no one to turn to and the Lord saw her pain. He appeared to her and gave her instructions to follow.
Sometimes when all hell is breaking loose in our lives we feel lost and all alone. We cry and we pray and wonder if God sees or hears us. The enemy will use this difficult time to tell us that no one is listening and that God does not care. But this is so not true. God cares about us so much that he numbered every strand of hair on our heads. He loves us so much that He gave up His Only Son as an atonement for the sins of all mankind.
God sees and hears all. He sees us when we are in pain and anguish. He hears all our prayers as we call onto Him in desperation. God is always there to comfort and to provide.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Learning to Wait
Then Sarai said to Abram, “You are responsible for the wrong I am suffering. I put my servant in your arms, and now that she is pregnant, she despises me. May the Lord judge between you and me.” Your servant is in your hands.” Abram said. “Do with her whatever you think best.” Then Sarai mistreated Hagar; so she fled from her. – Genesis 16:5-6
Sarai was desperate for a child. She had become tired of waiting so she decided to take matters into her own hands. I have no doubts that Abram shared the promise of God with her but she did not believe. She decided on some DIY moves and gave her maidservant Hagar to Abram to be his wife. She became pregnant and Sarai’s jealousy grew to intolerable heights. She wanted to get rid of her maidservant and her pregnancy.
I am sure that at the time Sarai decided on getting her husband a second wife, it seemed like a good idea. Waiting on God can be hard – especially when we think He is taking too long. We often forget that God’s time is the best time and His time is very often not our time. He knows what’s best for us and He has everything planned and laid out for our good. If Sarai had waited on God, things would have turned out just as God promised.
As believers, we must learn to wait on the Lord. Most importantly as we wait, we must wait with the right attitude. Our waiting and our attitude while waiting are both crucial. We must learn not to take matters into our own hands. Nine out of ten times when we decide to do for ourselves what we think God has no power to do for us, we get into a lot more trouble than we were in to begin with. Being human, we are always tempted to take matters into our own hands but we must resist the temptation and choose to calmly wait on the Lord instead.
Sarai was desperate for a child. She had become tired of waiting so she decided to take matters into her own hands. I have no doubts that Abram shared the promise of God with her but she did not believe. She decided on some DIY moves and gave her maidservant Hagar to Abram to be his wife. She became pregnant and Sarai’s jealousy grew to intolerable heights. She wanted to get rid of her maidservant and her pregnancy.
I am sure that at the time Sarai decided on getting her husband a second wife, it seemed like a good idea. Waiting on God can be hard – especially when we think He is taking too long. We often forget that God’s time is the best time and His time is very often not our time. He knows what’s best for us and He has everything planned and laid out for our good. If Sarai had waited on God, things would have turned out just as God promised.
As believers, we must learn to wait on the Lord. Most importantly as we wait, we must wait with the right attitude. Our waiting and our attitude while waiting are both crucial. We must learn not to take matters into our own hands. Nine out of ten times when we decide to do for ourselves what we think God has no power to do for us, we get into a lot more trouble than we were in to begin with. Being human, we are always tempted to take matters into our own hands but we must resist the temptation and choose to calmly wait on the Lord instead.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Who Do You Believe?
Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness. – Genesis 15:6
We all believe in someone or something. Some have their hopes and faith hinged on the material possessions they have been able to accumulate over time. Others are completely dependent on someone else for their existence. The truth of the matter, however, is that the stock markets will crash and people will eventually leave and make other decisions for themselves. The only thing that remains constant and never changes is the love of God.
Abram was far from perfect but God was more interested in his heart than his outward appearance. Abram was a man of faith and he trusted God even when the promise that he would eventually have a son by his wife Sarai seemed far-fetched. He did not have a single heir at ninety-nine years of age but God was telling him that his offspring shall be as many as the stars in the heavens – uncountable and he believed in God and His promise.
Even when the circumstances that we are in seem bleak and it seems that all roads are blocked and there is no way out, God can make what seems impossible possible. God can speak the word into our lives and our lives can change dramatically. We can go from point A to point Z in a flash, skipping all the steps in between if that is the wish of Our Father in heaven. We can be grateful for the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ that allows us to approach God’s throne of grace despite our imperfections. God does not require that we be a picture of perfection but He does want us to believe and have faith in Him.
Who do you believe?
We all believe in someone or something. Some have their hopes and faith hinged on the material possessions they have been able to accumulate over time. Others are completely dependent on someone else for their existence. The truth of the matter, however, is that the stock markets will crash and people will eventually leave and make other decisions for themselves. The only thing that remains constant and never changes is the love of God.
Abram was far from perfect but God was more interested in his heart than his outward appearance. Abram was a man of faith and he trusted God even when the promise that he would eventually have a son by his wife Sarai seemed far-fetched. He did not have a single heir at ninety-nine years of age but God was telling him that his offspring shall be as many as the stars in the heavens – uncountable and he believed in God and His promise.
Even when the circumstances that we are in seem bleak and it seems that all roads are blocked and there is no way out, God can make what seems impossible possible. God can speak the word into our lives and our lives can change dramatically. We can go from point A to point Z in a flash, skipping all the steps in between if that is the wish of Our Father in heaven. We can be grateful for the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ that allows us to approach God’s throne of grace despite our imperfections. God does not require that we be a picture of perfection but He does want us to believe and have faith in Him.
Who do you believe?
Sunday, March 1, 2009
He Just Speaks the Word
And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. – Genesis 1:3
And God said, “Let there be an expanse between the waters to separate water from water. – Genesis 1:6
And God said, “Let the water under the sky be gathered to one place, and let dry ground appear.” And it was so. – Genesis 1:9
Then God said, “Let the land produce vegetation: seed bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds.” And it was so. – Genesis 1:11
And God said, “Let there be lights in the expanse of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark seasons and days and years, and let them be lights in the expanse of the sky to give light on the earth.” And it was so. – Genesis 1:14-15
God speaks and things begin to happen. He opens his mouth and things are exactly as He says. God brought the entire universe into existence by simply speaking. Most people have no faith in God Almighty but they believe that the sun will shine tomorrow. They have faith in the fact that night will come as expected. As I read through Genesis 1, I am in awe of the God I serve. He simply says the famous words “Let there or let us” and amazing things happen. Creation comes into play and all the beautiful wonders of the world appear. I am fascinated by my Creator and what He can do if I simply trust Him and look to Him always.
This is why I trust the Word of God. As He speaks His promises into my heart and my life, I can see things begin to happen. I can start to see the chaos in my world turn to order at His command. I can gradually see things beginning to take shape. I can feel my mind and my heart changing. I can see myself slowly becoming just like my Creator.
And God said, “Let there be an expanse between the waters to separate water from water. – Genesis 1:6
And God said, “Let the water under the sky be gathered to one place, and let dry ground appear.” And it was so. – Genesis 1:9
Then God said, “Let the land produce vegetation: seed bearing plants and trees on the land that bear fruit with seed in it, according to their various kinds.” And it was so. – Genesis 1:11
And God said, “Let there be lights in the expanse of the sky to separate the day from the night, and let them serve as signs to mark seasons and days and years, and let them be lights in the expanse of the sky to give light on the earth.” And it was so. – Genesis 1:14-15
God speaks and things begin to happen. He opens his mouth and things are exactly as He says. God brought the entire universe into existence by simply speaking. Most people have no faith in God Almighty but they believe that the sun will shine tomorrow. They have faith in the fact that night will come as expected. As I read through Genesis 1, I am in awe of the God I serve. He simply says the famous words “Let there or let us” and amazing things happen. Creation comes into play and all the beautiful wonders of the world appear. I am fascinated by my Creator and what He can do if I simply trust Him and look to Him always.
This is why I trust the Word of God. As He speaks His promises into my heart and my life, I can see things begin to happen. I can start to see the chaos in my world turn to order at His command. I can gradually see things beginning to take shape. I can feel my mind and my heart changing. I can see myself slowly becoming just like my Creator.
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