Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. – Romans 12:3
Even with the best intentions, we sometimes get ahead of ourselves. We have the job we want, the kind of house we like and the car we have longed for. Our family life is going well and everyone is healthy. Everything seems to be going right and before long we begin to place all the glory on ourselves. We gradually start to believe that we got all that we have because we are smart. Anyone that is struggling to get things going is definitely to blame. If they had been dedicated, diligent and applied themselves like you have, they will be getting on well in life. Arrogance starts to seep into our thinking and we begin to forget the God who made us what we are.
The Bible warns us about getting to a place where we feel invisible and untouchable. If we get to proud, God may have to bring us down to get humility to spring up in our hearts. I understand how difficult it can be for one to be grateful for what God has done without letting ego get in the way of things. Being humble about what God has done in our lives without being arrogant and condescending towards others can indeed be difficult but the Bible orders that it must be done.
We are called to greatness but there is a price to be paid. We are to help others find their way. We are to reach out a helping hand towards the poor and those in need. We are to keep our feet firmly on the ground while our minds soar to great heights.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Friday, October 23, 2009
What Have You Done With God’s Son?
He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God – children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God. – John 1:10-13
It really hurts when I read or hear people mock Jesus Christ simply because they do not believe and don’t understand why anyone with a brain will believe in a God they cannot see. Someone was actually bold enough to say the disciples were thick and that is why they followed and believed in Christ. He didn’t know which one will last – Christianity or rock or roll. That just sounds so silly even as I write it. Needless to say, he didn’t last. He expired well before Christianity! The people of God are still rocking on.
God’s message to believers is clear. Because we know Him and recognize and acknowledge him, we must give Him our complete love and devotion and extend this love to all people that come our way. As we believe in His name, we must live a lifestyle that demonstrates what we believe. We cannot be of the world in public in a desperate attempt to blend in and then proclaim the name of the Lord when we are behind closed doors. Conversely, we cannot shout the name of God in public and be an atheist in the home. We must make sure that we honor the name of the Lord in all that we do. As the Bible says in Matthew 25:40 – “whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me”: let’s take some extra time to extend the love of God to people around us.
On a daily basis, ask yourself the crucial question – what can I do for Jesus
It really hurts when I read or hear people mock Jesus Christ simply because they do not believe and don’t understand why anyone with a brain will believe in a God they cannot see. Someone was actually bold enough to say the disciples were thick and that is why they followed and believed in Christ. He didn’t know which one will last – Christianity or rock or roll. That just sounds so silly even as I write it. Needless to say, he didn’t last. He expired well before Christianity! The people of God are still rocking on.
God’s message to believers is clear. Because we know Him and recognize and acknowledge him, we must give Him our complete love and devotion and extend this love to all people that come our way. As we believe in His name, we must live a lifestyle that demonstrates what we believe. We cannot be of the world in public in a desperate attempt to blend in and then proclaim the name of the Lord when we are behind closed doors. Conversely, we cannot shout the name of God in public and be an atheist in the home. We must make sure that we honor the name of the Lord in all that we do. As the Bible says in Matthew 25:40 – “whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me”: let’s take some extra time to extend the love of God to people around us.
On a daily basis, ask yourself the crucial question – what can I do for Jesus
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Are You Drifting Away?
We must pay more careful attention therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away. For if the message spoken by angels was binding, and every violation and disobedience received its just punishment, how shall we escape if we ignore such a great salvation? This salvation, which was first announced by the Lord, was confirmed to us by those who heard him. – Hebrews 2:1-3
Living the believer’s life is not just about being saved. There are the important concepts of growth and discipleship involved. We must continue to spend time with God through His Word and prayer so that we do not lose that important connection. There are many reports in the media about great men of God who were not cautious enough and as a consequence got caught up in different kinds of sin. It is so easy to drift away from God. We miss a day of prayer, then two and then three and before long we have gone weeks without praying or spending time in the Word. We fail to attend church one Sunday and one missed service becomes one year of none attendance in church. I understand this perfectly because I am a runner and I sometimes miss a day and then it becomes a week. When I find myself in this position, I pray for strength and get back out there before it really gets out of hand.
The above scripture is for everyone who has received Christ as their Lord and Savior. Salvation, no one can take from you, but without diligence and careful attention, it is very possible to disallow the Kingdom of God to come down in the piece of earth which is your body. Your neglect can prevent the glory of God from being displayed in your saved and sanctified self. Salvation is free = it is a gift from God but manifesting God’s glory in your life will require your attentive participation. You must never loose hold of the very God that saved you. Cling to the Lord with all your might. Saturate your mind and your heart with His Word. Talk to Him throughout your day lest you drift away and lose your way.
Living the believer’s life is not just about being saved. There are the important concepts of growth and discipleship involved. We must continue to spend time with God through His Word and prayer so that we do not lose that important connection. There are many reports in the media about great men of God who were not cautious enough and as a consequence got caught up in different kinds of sin. It is so easy to drift away from God. We miss a day of prayer, then two and then three and before long we have gone weeks without praying or spending time in the Word. We fail to attend church one Sunday and one missed service becomes one year of none attendance in church. I understand this perfectly because I am a runner and I sometimes miss a day and then it becomes a week. When I find myself in this position, I pray for strength and get back out there before it really gets out of hand.
The above scripture is for everyone who has received Christ as their Lord and Savior. Salvation, no one can take from you, but without diligence and careful attention, it is very possible to disallow the Kingdom of God to come down in the piece of earth which is your body. Your neglect can prevent the glory of God from being displayed in your saved and sanctified self. Salvation is free = it is a gift from God but manifesting God’s glory in your life will require your attentive participation. You must never loose hold of the very God that saved you. Cling to the Lord with all your might. Saturate your mind and your heart with His Word. Talk to Him throughout your day lest you drift away and lose your way.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Be Careful About What You Say
He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin. – Proverbs 13:3
Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and itself set on fire by hell. All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and creatures of the sea are being tamed and have been tamed by man, but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? My brothers, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs. Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water. – James 3:5-12
We all need to be careful what we say. Once we speak, we cannot take our words back. The old saying ‘sticks and stones may break my back but words will never hurt me” is so not true. Words do hurt and the damage they can do can last a lifetime. Words are very powerful and can affect our entire lives. Being hurtful, disrespectful and mean is not ideal, even when we are angry and have a right to be. We must learn to control our mouths so that we do not release via our lips every thought that comes into our brains. We must put our brains in gear before we set our mouths in motion. Speaking irresponsibly and without caution can bring pain and cause heartbreak to others.
Rather than hurt and alienate people with our words, we can make a conscious decision to love, inspire, praise, commend and bring joy to others. We must decide to build one another up rather than tear each other down. I have met people who have what you can call a ‘critical spirit’ – they criticize everyone and everything around them. They spend their lives being pessimistic about every single opportunity and circumstance. They bring a negative aura with them wherever they go. It is no surprise that no one wants to be around them. The Bible tells us that we cannot curse and disrespect another one minute and then start to praise God the next. How can we have such negativity and evil residing in the same heart that claims to demonstrate the love of God? We have to decide what we want to be. We all must choose whether we want to be a builder of the body of Christ or a destroyer who brings in strife and discord.
For those of us who are married with children or with children and/or married, we must be extremely cautious. We must be vigilant about what is coming out of our mouths where our spouses are concerned. The wrong words can destroy a good relationship. With our children, we are writing on the slate of who they are on a daily basis – cursing them is just a really bad idea regardless of what they might have done.
Let’s not be critical of others. Let us choose our words carefully as we communicate with others.
Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and itself set on fire by hell. All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and creatures of the sea are being tamed and have been tamed by man, but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? My brothers, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs. Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water. – James 3:5-12
We all need to be careful what we say. Once we speak, we cannot take our words back. The old saying ‘sticks and stones may break my back but words will never hurt me” is so not true. Words do hurt and the damage they can do can last a lifetime. Words are very powerful and can affect our entire lives. Being hurtful, disrespectful and mean is not ideal, even when we are angry and have a right to be. We must learn to control our mouths so that we do not release via our lips every thought that comes into our brains. We must put our brains in gear before we set our mouths in motion. Speaking irresponsibly and without caution can bring pain and cause heartbreak to others.
Rather than hurt and alienate people with our words, we can make a conscious decision to love, inspire, praise, commend and bring joy to others. We must decide to build one another up rather than tear each other down. I have met people who have what you can call a ‘critical spirit’ – they criticize everyone and everything around them. They spend their lives being pessimistic about every single opportunity and circumstance. They bring a negative aura with them wherever they go. It is no surprise that no one wants to be around them. The Bible tells us that we cannot curse and disrespect another one minute and then start to praise God the next. How can we have such negativity and evil residing in the same heart that claims to demonstrate the love of God? We have to decide what we want to be. We all must choose whether we want to be a builder of the body of Christ or a destroyer who brings in strife and discord.
For those of us who are married with children or with children and/or married, we must be extremely cautious. We must be vigilant about what is coming out of our mouths where our spouses are concerned. The wrong words can destroy a good relationship. With our children, we are writing on the slate of who they are on a daily basis – cursing them is just a really bad idea regardless of what they might have done.
Let’s not be critical of others. Let us choose our words carefully as we communicate with others.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
The Power of Thoughts
For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. The good man brings good things out of the good stored in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. But I tell you that men will have to give account on the Day of Judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned. – Matthew 12:34b-37
Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. Put away perversity from your mouth; keep corrupt talk far from your lips. – Proverbs 4:23-24
Our thoughts dictate our words and our behavior and consequently our lives. We are called to guard our hearts because out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks. If we open up our hearts to evil, it won’t be long before we find ourselves drowning in sin. We can never be more than our thoughts. There is the popular saying “As a man thinks; so is he”. Whatever we focus on in our lives will only get bigger. If we feed our minds with garbage on TV and in magazines, we open up our hearts to the ways of the world. We have to be careful what we let into our homes via the media.
You cannot squeeze water out of a rock and as such, our lives will represent only what we let into our hearts and minds. When I hear people talk, I can pretty much decipher where their hearts and heads are at. If we choose to spend our time on garbage, we will think garbage and spurt out garbage. As believers, we are to choose books, movies and friends very carefully so as not to get our thoughts contaminated. We are to keep our hearts pure and be very choosy about what we entertain.
Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life. Put away perversity from your mouth; keep corrupt talk far from your lips. – Proverbs 4:23-24
Our thoughts dictate our words and our behavior and consequently our lives. We are called to guard our hearts because out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks. If we open up our hearts to evil, it won’t be long before we find ourselves drowning in sin. We can never be more than our thoughts. There is the popular saying “As a man thinks; so is he”. Whatever we focus on in our lives will only get bigger. If we feed our minds with garbage on TV and in magazines, we open up our hearts to the ways of the world. We have to be careful what we let into our homes via the media.
You cannot squeeze water out of a rock and as such, our lives will represent only what we let into our hearts and minds. When I hear people talk, I can pretty much decipher where their hearts and heads are at. If we choose to spend our time on garbage, we will think garbage and spurt out garbage. As believers, we are to choose books, movies and friends very carefully so as not to get our thoughts contaminated. We are to keep our hearts pure and be very choosy about what we entertain.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Love: The Greatest Commandment
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil, cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. – Romans 12:9-10
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. – Galatians 5:22-23
If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing. – 1 Corinthians 13:1-3
There’s nothing worse than discovering that someone who claimed to love you, didn’t really love you at all; they just wanted something that you had. Hypocritical love is rampant in the world today. The term ‘love’ is the most misused word in English language. The Bible is clear about what it means when it mentions the word ‘love’. The Word of God refers to love as being genuine, real, visible through actions rather than by words. God’s definition of love is tangible and unconditional and it reflects the condition of our hearts. We are called to chase after what is good and hate what is evil – yes, hate evil. The fact that we love does not mean we open ourselves up for the evil in our midst but it does mean that we love our enemies even if we do not like what they do.
Expressing brotherly love means we love like Christ loves. It means we reach out to the un-loveable and show them the love of God. This is the only way that we can bring light into the otherwise dark world of people who are yet to come to Christ. We are never to think ourselves as better than anyone because it is only by the grace of God that we can walk in His love.
Love can change so many things in this decaying world we are in right now. God knows that all we really need to thrive is love that is why love is the greatest commandment and the first item listed in the fruits of the Spirit.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. – Galatians 5:22-23
If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing. – 1 Corinthians 13:1-3
There’s nothing worse than discovering that someone who claimed to love you, didn’t really love you at all; they just wanted something that you had. Hypocritical love is rampant in the world today. The term ‘love’ is the most misused word in English language. The Bible is clear about what it means when it mentions the word ‘love’. The Word of God refers to love as being genuine, real, visible through actions rather than by words. God’s definition of love is tangible and unconditional and it reflects the condition of our hearts. We are called to chase after what is good and hate what is evil – yes, hate evil. The fact that we love does not mean we open ourselves up for the evil in our midst but it does mean that we love our enemies even if we do not like what they do.
Expressing brotherly love means we love like Christ loves. It means we reach out to the un-loveable and show them the love of God. This is the only way that we can bring light into the otherwise dark world of people who are yet to come to Christ. We are never to think ourselves as better than anyone because it is only by the grace of God that we can walk in His love.
Love can change so many things in this decaying world we are in right now. God knows that all we really need to thrive is love that is why love is the greatest commandment and the first item listed in the fruits of the Spirit.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Who’s Raising Your Children?
And you took your sons and daughters whom you bore to me and sacrificed them as food to the idols. Was your prostitution not enough? You slaughtered my children and sacrificed them to the idols. In all your detestable practices and your prostitution you did not remember the days of your youth, when you were naked and bare, kicking about in your blood. – Ezekiel 16:20-22
It will seem the world we live in now demands dual income families which means both parents have to hold down a job. The cost of living has risen dramatically over the years. We also want to be able to afford more and to have more so we work twice as hard for the material things of life. There was a time when I only spent a couple of hours a day with my children during the week. I would drop them at school at 7 a.m. and not come back for them until 6 p.m. (on a good day!). It looked like we only really saw each other on weekends. In between the rush in the morning to get ready and dinner/homework time at night, we managed to exchange a few sentences but that was pretty much the extent of it. I felt a tad bit of comfort because I made a conscious choice to place my children in Christian private education so I knew that the instruction they were getting was close to what I was giving them at home but at the same time, I believed deep down that I wasn’t doing enough to spend quality time with my children. I started to think that my children were spending more time with teachers and caregivers than with me.
Parenting is such a huge responsibility. We are to groom our children, instructing them in the way of the Lord and teaching them about the importance of prayer and holy living. Whether we work all day or not, we are to instruct them spiritually as we drive them to school and as we bring them home. We are to ensure that we are practicing what we are preaching. It does not good to send them to Christian schools or preach to them when the atmosphere in our home is contrary to what we are saying. Work and money has it place but higher on the lists of priorities are our children and family life. I am grateful to God that I have had the opportunity to spend quality time with my children in the last five months. It has been great talking with my teenage daughter and finding out what her opinions are on a wide range of issues and boy - does she have her own opinions!
Who’s really raising your children? How much time do you spend with them? Do you really know you children – I mean really talk to them to find out what is going on in their heads?
It will seem the world we live in now demands dual income families which means both parents have to hold down a job. The cost of living has risen dramatically over the years. We also want to be able to afford more and to have more so we work twice as hard for the material things of life. There was a time when I only spent a couple of hours a day with my children during the week. I would drop them at school at 7 a.m. and not come back for them until 6 p.m. (on a good day!). It looked like we only really saw each other on weekends. In between the rush in the morning to get ready and dinner/homework time at night, we managed to exchange a few sentences but that was pretty much the extent of it. I felt a tad bit of comfort because I made a conscious choice to place my children in Christian private education so I knew that the instruction they were getting was close to what I was giving them at home but at the same time, I believed deep down that I wasn’t doing enough to spend quality time with my children. I started to think that my children were spending more time with teachers and caregivers than with me.
Parenting is such a huge responsibility. We are to groom our children, instructing them in the way of the Lord and teaching them about the importance of prayer and holy living. Whether we work all day or not, we are to instruct them spiritually as we drive them to school and as we bring them home. We are to ensure that we are practicing what we are preaching. It does not good to send them to Christian schools or preach to them when the atmosphere in our home is contrary to what we are saying. Work and money has it place but higher on the lists of priorities are our children and family life. I am grateful to God that I have had the opportunity to spend quality time with my children in the last five months. It has been great talking with my teenage daughter and finding out what her opinions are on a wide range of issues and boy - does she have her own opinions!
Who’s really raising your children? How much time do you spend with them? Do you really know you children – I mean really talk to them to find out what is going on in their heads?
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Prayer Changes Everything
And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. – Ephesians 6:18
I haven’t always been a very prayerful person. To be honest, I lived many years as a Christian with little emphasis on prayer. But as I grew older, had children and spent more time in the word of God, I discovered the blessings that comes with leading a prayerful life. This does not mean that I got all my prayers answered the way that I wanted – no – but I did see God’s hand begin to move powerfully on my behalf. The more I sought his face concerning the life changing decisions I needed to make; the more I saw him direct me in clear, succinct yet subtle ways. Knowing what I know now, it will be impossible for me to live this life without prayer.
No one in their right mind wants to live a mediocre life as a believer because when you settle for that you have to ask yourself the question – what’s the point? We all want a life of joy, fulfillment, love, peace and purpose. We all want our lives to count for something. We all want to leave our marks on this earth when we depart. The only way we can have the kind of Christian walk that is fulfilling is with a close relationship with God through prayer. When we pray, we call on heaven to look into our lives and our situation. When we approach God in humility, we are placing our flesh on the Cross and Christ in His rightful place which is on the throne. Living without prayer is an arrogant way to live; a life methodology that signifies that we have no need for God.
True prayer means communicating with God on regular basis. It does not necessarily mean a particular position at a particular time of the day. Prayer is an attitude and a way of life. Prayer can happen anywhere and at anytime. We can speak out loud or speak with our hearts. Our lips may move and they may not, it does not matter because God has a way of listening more to our hearts than our mouths. I once heard a powerful man of God make the statement – no prayer; no power, little prayer; little power and more prayer; more power. Every time we pray and worship God, our circumstances change for the better. Even if physical manifestations are not immediately apparent, something changes inside of us. We get a certain level of confidence that God is in control because we know that things always change when Almighty God shows up. Never give up on praying to the Lord. God sees your situation and he hears your prayers. He will show up right on time. Don’t fret or worry.
I haven’t always been a very prayerful person. To be honest, I lived many years as a Christian with little emphasis on prayer. But as I grew older, had children and spent more time in the word of God, I discovered the blessings that comes with leading a prayerful life. This does not mean that I got all my prayers answered the way that I wanted – no – but I did see God’s hand begin to move powerfully on my behalf. The more I sought his face concerning the life changing decisions I needed to make; the more I saw him direct me in clear, succinct yet subtle ways. Knowing what I know now, it will be impossible for me to live this life without prayer.
No one in their right mind wants to live a mediocre life as a believer because when you settle for that you have to ask yourself the question – what’s the point? We all want a life of joy, fulfillment, love, peace and purpose. We all want our lives to count for something. We all want to leave our marks on this earth when we depart. The only way we can have the kind of Christian walk that is fulfilling is with a close relationship with God through prayer. When we pray, we call on heaven to look into our lives and our situation. When we approach God in humility, we are placing our flesh on the Cross and Christ in His rightful place which is on the throne. Living without prayer is an arrogant way to live; a life methodology that signifies that we have no need for God.
True prayer means communicating with God on regular basis. It does not necessarily mean a particular position at a particular time of the day. Prayer is an attitude and a way of life. Prayer can happen anywhere and at anytime. We can speak out loud or speak with our hearts. Our lips may move and they may not, it does not matter because God has a way of listening more to our hearts than our mouths. I once heard a powerful man of God make the statement – no prayer; no power, little prayer; little power and more prayer; more power. Every time we pray and worship God, our circumstances change for the better. Even if physical manifestations are not immediately apparent, something changes inside of us. We get a certain level of confidence that God is in control because we know that things always change when Almighty God shows up. Never give up on praying to the Lord. God sees your situation and he hears your prayers. He will show up right on time. Don’t fret or worry.
Friday, October 16, 2009
What Will Your Reward Be?
“Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End. Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city. Outside are the dogs, those who practice magic arts, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters and everyone who loves and practices falsehood.” – Revelations 22:12-15
I gave my life to Jesus Christ earlier on in life but I am just beginning to come into my own with my Christian walk. I am just learning to understand my purpose and doing all I can to live for God. I think getting along in age has a great deal to do with it because consequently as time passes, you get a feeling that you are running out of time. Let’s face it – no one will be around forever. This realm is just for a time so whatever time I do have left I intend to use it to promote the Word of God.
The Lord is indeed coming back. We do not know when but He will be back. It is important for us all to examine the works of our hands. These are really crucial and trying times. What are you doing for the Lord? Are all your efforts strictly for self-gratification? Can you see anything or anyone bigger or greater than yourself? What motivates you? What or who drives you? What controls your day? Take some time to think of eternity rather than right now. All that we see are temporal; what matters most are those things that we cannot see but that are eternal. We need to begin to shift our attention off ourselves and onto the Lord. We will all receive a reward in heaven. What will your reward be?
I gave my life to Jesus Christ earlier on in life but I am just beginning to come into my own with my Christian walk. I am just learning to understand my purpose and doing all I can to live for God. I think getting along in age has a great deal to do with it because consequently as time passes, you get a feeling that you are running out of time. Let’s face it – no one will be around forever. This realm is just for a time so whatever time I do have left I intend to use it to promote the Word of God.
The Lord is indeed coming back. We do not know when but He will be back. It is important for us all to examine the works of our hands. These are really crucial and trying times. What are you doing for the Lord? Are all your efforts strictly for self-gratification? Can you see anything or anyone bigger or greater than yourself? What motivates you? What or who drives you? What controls your day? Take some time to think of eternity rather than right now. All that we see are temporal; what matters most are those things that we cannot see but that are eternal. We need to begin to shift our attention off ourselves and onto the Lord. We will all receive a reward in heaven. What will your reward be?
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Life in Christ
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. – John 10:10
Life can truly only be lived in two ways – with Christ or without Christ; the choice is up to you. You are either on the Lord’s side or the enemy’s side. Coming from someone who has tried both, I can advise that there is no real life without Jesus Christ. We are talking about someone who sticks closer than any brother. He is the One True Friend that will never let you down. Having a life with Christ is fulfilling and powerfully. God truly wants the best for us. He wants us to be healthy, prosperous and fulfilled. When Christ mentions the abundant life, He does not mean riches from man’s point of view. He means having a healthy mind, body and spirit. It means that all our needs will be met by the Lord himself. It does mean that we will not be disappointment or have no problems in life. His promise means that when we trip and fall, He’ll be there to pick us up, dust us off and give us a chance to start over. He gave us His word that he will restore everything the enemy steals from us. He reminds us that we will get double for our troubles.
The enemy has nothing for us except mirages. He dangles a carrot in front us of us and when we go for it, we get more trouble than we ever bargained for. Whatever sin he manages to convince us to indulge in brings short-term gain and a life-long world of hurt. His aim is simple – to kill and destroy in an attempt to abort God’s purpose for your life. With a continued walk with God and sensitivity to the Holy Spirit, it becomes easier to recognize these “carrots” from the enemy. The strength to avoid these carrots and keep on the narrow path comes from God. A life in Christ secures your destiny and your inheritance. There is no other life worth living.
Life can truly only be lived in two ways – with Christ or without Christ; the choice is up to you. You are either on the Lord’s side or the enemy’s side. Coming from someone who has tried both, I can advise that there is no real life without Jesus Christ. We are talking about someone who sticks closer than any brother. He is the One True Friend that will never let you down. Having a life with Christ is fulfilling and powerfully. God truly wants the best for us. He wants us to be healthy, prosperous and fulfilled. When Christ mentions the abundant life, He does not mean riches from man’s point of view. He means having a healthy mind, body and spirit. It means that all our needs will be met by the Lord himself. It does mean that we will not be disappointment or have no problems in life. His promise means that when we trip and fall, He’ll be there to pick us up, dust us off and give us a chance to start over. He gave us His word that he will restore everything the enemy steals from us. He reminds us that we will get double for our troubles.
The enemy has nothing for us except mirages. He dangles a carrot in front us of us and when we go for it, we get more trouble than we ever bargained for. Whatever sin he manages to convince us to indulge in brings short-term gain and a life-long world of hurt. His aim is simple – to kill and destroy in an attempt to abort God’s purpose for your life. With a continued walk with God and sensitivity to the Holy Spirit, it becomes easier to recognize these “carrots” from the enemy. The strength to avoid these carrots and keep on the narrow path comes from God. A life in Christ secures your destiny and your inheritance. There is no other life worth living.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Trusting in Him – Why Is That So Hard?
Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun. Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes. Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret – it leads only to evil. – Psalm 37:5-8
Many us profess to love God but we find it hard to trust him fully – especially when things get difficult. As Christians, we sometimes believe our prayers ought to be answered in the way that we want. We think because we pray and profess the Lord, we should be immune from the hardships of life. It is perfectly fine when misfortune touches and wrecks the lives of others but it mustn’t affect us – we are Christians. Because we trust in God, we ought not to get laid off, we shouldn’t lose our homes or cars and our credit must not be messed up. But in reality, difficult things happen to the strongest of believers.
Christianity is not a golden parachute that allows us to sail over problems. The Bible does not promise that we will always be on the mountain; valley times will surely come. We will have challenges just like everybody else but we have God to walk with us through those difficult times. It is crucial for our Christian walk that we trust in the Lord and in the power of His might. If we find that hard to do, we are going to have huge problems. Just because we heard God speak and tell us what road to take does not mean that the road will be easy. Challenges come to make us stronger and better prepared for the promises God has for us.
Many us profess to love God but we find it hard to trust him fully – especially when things get difficult. As Christians, we sometimes believe our prayers ought to be answered in the way that we want. We think because we pray and profess the Lord, we should be immune from the hardships of life. It is perfectly fine when misfortune touches and wrecks the lives of others but it mustn’t affect us – we are Christians. Because we trust in God, we ought not to get laid off, we shouldn’t lose our homes or cars and our credit must not be messed up. But in reality, difficult things happen to the strongest of believers.
Christianity is not a golden parachute that allows us to sail over problems. The Bible does not promise that we will always be on the mountain; valley times will surely come. We will have challenges just like everybody else but we have God to walk with us through those difficult times. It is crucial for our Christian walk that we trust in the Lord and in the power of His might. If we find that hard to do, we are going to have huge problems. Just because we heard God speak and tell us what road to take does not mean that the road will be easy. Challenges come to make us stronger and better prepared for the promises God has for us.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Prayer for Restoration
But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds, declares the Lord, ‘because you are called an outcast, Zion for whom no one cares.’ – Jeremiah 30:17
The world is in a terrible state of decay. Just the other day on TV, there was news about some parents killing their own child while another set of adults were molesting little children. I wonder what this world is coming to. There is a total and blatant disregard for human life and for the law. People have stopped caring and it really shows. The most dangerous diseases are the ones of the inside that no-one can’t see. Most of us are hurting in places the human eye cannot see – in the mind, the heart and the soul. We are carrying around residues of dysfunctional childhoods and stinking thinking. If the human body was like a drain, for most of us, it will be so backed up that there will be no room for fresh water to flow. We walk around as if everything is good. We portray a sense of freedom that experientially eludes us. When we go home and shut the door behind us, our true self comes out and it is not a pretty sight. We listen to the preacher go on and on about breakthrough we cannot really see. Everything sounds good at the prayer meeting until we get into the car to drive home and the reality of our circumstances hit us.
God is the ultimate healer. No motivational speaker or self help book can heal us. We can feel better for a while with these resources but all that will soon pass especially when the tough circumstance we are confronted with refuses to subside. Only God can truly restore us to health in all areas of our lives because His healing is from the inside out. Regardless of where we have been and what we have done, God loves us and He cares about us. Reach out to God for your healing and restoration today.
The world is in a terrible state of decay. Just the other day on TV, there was news about some parents killing their own child while another set of adults were molesting little children. I wonder what this world is coming to. There is a total and blatant disregard for human life and for the law. People have stopped caring and it really shows. The most dangerous diseases are the ones of the inside that no-one can’t see. Most of us are hurting in places the human eye cannot see – in the mind, the heart and the soul. We are carrying around residues of dysfunctional childhoods and stinking thinking. If the human body was like a drain, for most of us, it will be so backed up that there will be no room for fresh water to flow. We walk around as if everything is good. We portray a sense of freedom that experientially eludes us. When we go home and shut the door behind us, our true self comes out and it is not a pretty sight. We listen to the preacher go on and on about breakthrough we cannot really see. Everything sounds good at the prayer meeting until we get into the car to drive home and the reality of our circumstances hit us.
God is the ultimate healer. No motivational speaker or self help book can heal us. We can feel better for a while with these resources but all that will soon pass especially when the tough circumstance we are confronted with refuses to subside. Only God can truly restore us to health in all areas of our lives because His healing is from the inside out. Regardless of where we have been and what we have done, God loves us and He cares about us. Reach out to God for your healing and restoration today.
Monday, October 12, 2009
His Blood Is All We Need
And the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. – 1 John 1:7b
God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood. – Romans 3:25
Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him! – Romans 5:9
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding. – Ephesians 1:7
We all hold the famous last words of Jesus Christ at the Cross of Calvary “It is finished” (John 19:30), close to our hearts. I have been in churches where the preacher has made a decision that it is not finished as far as he is concerned and their is still a price the congregation must pay for sin. Preachers like these spend time figuring out ways to manipulate the congregation rather than on God to find out what He wants His people to hear. The Bible is clear that all our sin has been washed away and we are thoroughly cleansed and set free. God promises that once we accept His Son as the Lord over our lives and repent of our sins, He will remember our sins and lawless acts no more. He promises not to count our past against us. We get a brand new start and since we have been fully forgiven, there is no longer any sacrifice necessary for sin.
The Blood of Jesus is powerful. We need the Blood for our everyday living just as much we needed it when we prayed for our salvation. How else do we prove that we are children of the Living God without the Blood? Death has no hold over us because of His Blood. We have been redeemed from all our sins – past, present and future. Halleluiah to the Lamb of God!
God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood. – Romans 3:25
Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him! – Romans 5:9
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding. – Ephesians 1:7
We all hold the famous last words of Jesus Christ at the Cross of Calvary “It is finished” (John 19:30), close to our hearts. I have been in churches where the preacher has made a decision that it is not finished as far as he is concerned and their is still a price the congregation must pay for sin. Preachers like these spend time figuring out ways to manipulate the congregation rather than on God to find out what He wants His people to hear. The Bible is clear that all our sin has been washed away and we are thoroughly cleansed and set free. God promises that once we accept His Son as the Lord over our lives and repent of our sins, He will remember our sins and lawless acts no more. He promises not to count our past against us. We get a brand new start and since we have been fully forgiven, there is no longer any sacrifice necessary for sin.
The Blood of Jesus is powerful. We need the Blood for our everyday living just as much we needed it when we prayed for our salvation. How else do we prove that we are children of the Living God without the Blood? Death has no hold over us because of His Blood. We have been redeemed from all our sins – past, present and future. Halleluiah to the Lamb of God!
Sunday, October 11, 2009
He Sees You
On a Sabbath Jesus was teaching in one of the synagogues and a woman was there who had been crippled by a spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not straighten up at all. When Jesus saw her, he called her forward and said to her, “Woman, you are set free from your infirmity.” Then he put his hands on her, and immediately she straightened up and praised God. – Luke 13:10-13
When I first read this piece of scripture years ago, I was focused on the woman having some kind of physical disability. As I grew more and walked more with God, I realized that there was more to this scripture than physical ailments. He was talking to people like me - anyone who was bent over on the inside. This woman had been crippled by a spirit to me, means that she may not have been physically crippled. Her condition may not have been one you would notice by looking at her. Her crippled condition was said to be spiritual; that means internal – a disability of her mind, soul and spirit that only Jesus could see. She had been in this state for eighteen years. That is a really long time to be bent and broken. Being a woman myself, I am sure that she had done all that she could humanely do. Women are known to be resourceful as well as resilient. She had probably spent all she had on do-it-yourself remedies – all to no avail. But when Jesus saw her, he saw her condition and called out to her. She didn’t move closer or touch Him, He called her out. The minute He touched her, she became whole again.
That’s what we all need – a touch from the Healer. If we are to be truthfully, we are all bowed over on the inside in some way or another. We all have crooked places in our lives we long to have made straight. We all need a touch from the Master Healer. God has all the power in His hands and all the authority to straighten us out and make us whole. Give your life to Jesus Christ today. Accept His Blood; accept His Word and change your life.
When I first read this piece of scripture years ago, I was focused on the woman having some kind of physical disability. As I grew more and walked more with God, I realized that there was more to this scripture than physical ailments. He was talking to people like me - anyone who was bent over on the inside. This woman had been crippled by a spirit to me, means that she may not have been physically crippled. Her condition may not have been one you would notice by looking at her. Her crippled condition was said to be spiritual; that means internal – a disability of her mind, soul and spirit that only Jesus could see. She had been in this state for eighteen years. That is a really long time to be bent and broken. Being a woman myself, I am sure that she had done all that she could humanely do. Women are known to be resourceful as well as resilient. She had probably spent all she had on do-it-yourself remedies – all to no avail. But when Jesus saw her, he saw her condition and called out to her. She didn’t move closer or touch Him, He called her out. The minute He touched her, she became whole again.
That’s what we all need – a touch from the Healer. If we are to be truthfully, we are all bowed over on the inside in some way or another. We all have crooked places in our lives we long to have made straight. We all need a touch from the Master Healer. God has all the power in His hands and all the authority to straighten us out and make us whole. Give your life to Jesus Christ today. Accept His Blood; accept His Word and change your life.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
The Body Needs Your Gifts and Talents
It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. – Ephesians 4:11-13
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” – Matthew 6:19-21
It is so easy for many of us to be church-goers; pew warmers on a Sunday morning. We love the Lord but we do nothing to help build up the body of Christ. All our gifts and talents are being used for the circular world to get more money and more toys. We are content to work overtime, under-time and at any costs but when it comes to service in the house of the Lord, we cannot do the same. I believe there is this disparity because of the lack of monetary compensation when we serve in the church. The Bible is clear when it warns us about focusing on earthly treasures that are not eternal. As we work in God’s house, we may not be getting money for our efforts but we are storing up treasures in heaven; treasures that really count.
We are all called to use our God-given gifts and talents to build up the body of Christ. Just like the world needs what we have, the church needs our talents. Working within the church not only promotes unity but builds up faith. What are you doing with your gifts and talents within the body of Christ?
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” – Matthew 6:19-21
It is so easy for many of us to be church-goers; pew warmers on a Sunday morning. We love the Lord but we do nothing to help build up the body of Christ. All our gifts and talents are being used for the circular world to get more money and more toys. We are content to work overtime, under-time and at any costs but when it comes to service in the house of the Lord, we cannot do the same. I believe there is this disparity because of the lack of monetary compensation when we serve in the church. The Bible is clear when it warns us about focusing on earthly treasures that are not eternal. As we work in God’s house, we may not be getting money for our efforts but we are storing up treasures in heaven; treasures that really count.
We are all called to use our God-given gifts and talents to build up the body of Christ. Just like the world needs what we have, the church needs our talents. Working within the church not only promotes unity but builds up faith. What are you doing with your gifts and talents within the body of Christ?
Friday, October 9, 2009
God Has a Plan
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. – Jeremiah 29:11
Be still and know that I am God; - Psalm 46:10
It is sometimes difficult to see God in difficult times. But it is important to remember that God’s love is unconditional. He loves us in good times and in bad times – even when our troubles are self-inflicted. God has a plan for all his creation. God does not derive any joy from seeing His children suffer but like our earthly fathers, He is compelled to rebuke us when we are going our own way. He does this so that our destinies are not aborted and we can become all He has created us to be. I always look for lessons to learn in tough times. I sit down and meditate in order to get the meaning behind the issues that confront me. It is during these quiet times of meditation that God speaks to my heart and shows me the right way to proceed. I know based on experience that when all hell breaks loose, I must find a place and time to be still; to be quiet. If I can get away from the noisy distraction of people who think there is no way out and step away from the problems, God can safely lead me to safety.
Be still and know that I am God; - Psalm 46:10
It is sometimes difficult to see God in difficult times. But it is important to remember that God’s love is unconditional. He loves us in good times and in bad times – even when our troubles are self-inflicted. God has a plan for all his creation. God does not derive any joy from seeing His children suffer but like our earthly fathers, He is compelled to rebuke us when we are going our own way. He does this so that our destinies are not aborted and we can become all He has created us to be. I always look for lessons to learn in tough times. I sit down and meditate in order to get the meaning behind the issues that confront me. It is during these quiet times of meditation that God speaks to my heart and shows me the right way to proceed. I know based on experience that when all hell breaks loose, I must find a place and time to be still; to be quiet. If I can get away from the noisy distraction of people who think there is no way out and step away from the problems, God can safely lead me to safety.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Our Constant Help During Troubled Times
God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake their surging. There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells. God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day. Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; he lifts his voice, the earth melts. The Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. – Psalm 46:4-7
Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” – Hebrews 13:5
I am the Lord, and there is no other; apart from me there is no God. I will strengthen you, though you have not acknowledged me, so that from the rising of the sun to the place of its settings men may know there is none besides me. I am the Lord, and there is no other. I form the light and create darkness, I bring prosperity and create disaster; I, the Lord, do all these things. – Isaiah 45:5-7
Life can be pretty complicated. We often find ourselves in some very creative messes. I thank God for His mercy and His grace upon my life. Only He can testify about some of the trouble that I've brought upon myself! If not for Him, I have no idea where I’d be. God is indeed our refuge in times of trouble. When life suddenly seems hazy and we cannot see our way clearly, His Word becomes the light that guides us through. When tough times come, we are tempted to get overwhelmed, scared and disappointed with life. If the trouble we are in is self-inflicted, we are tempted to be burdened with some amount of guilt. Dangerously enough, this is the time we may be tempted to stop praying at the time we need to keep our connection with God tight. The Bible reminds us however, that there is no condemnation to those in Christ Jesus so regardless of our source of troubles; God has set us free through the Blood of His Precious Son, Jesus Christ. The enemy will have us believe that we are doomed and will never get out of the situation we are in but we must know that the Devil is a liar.
There are simple things we ought to remember when we are going through struggles:
1) Whatever we are dealing with is only temporary – remember that “this too shall pass”. – Psalm 18:2
2) Keep your head up – if God be for you, who dare be against you? - Romans 8:31
3) Repent of any sin you may be involved with; cleanse your mind and your heart with the Word of God. Prove your repentance by what you do – change. – Acts 19:19
4) Regardless of where you’ve been and what you have done, God has washed your sins away with the Blood of His Precious Son, Jesus Christ. Remember, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature. – 2 Corinthians 5:17
5) Keep God’s promises in your heart at all times; these promises bring such great comfort. – Psalm 73:25-26
6) Know that God’s Word will never return void; He will do all that He has said He will do. – Isaiah 55:11
7) Pray, Pray and Pray. Little Prayer; Little Power; More Prayer; More Power.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Delayed But Not Denied
Whenever the day came for Elkanah to sacrifice, he would give portions of meat to his wife Peninnah and all her sons and daughters. But to Hannah he gave a double portion because he loved her and the Lord had closed her womb. And because the Lord had closed her womb, her rival kept provoking her in order to irritate her. – 1 Samuel 1:4-6
So in the cause of time Hannah conceived and gave birth to a son. She named him Samuel, saying, “Because I asked the Lord for him.” – 1 Samuel 1:20
And the Lord was gracious to Hannah; she conceived and gave birth to three sons and two daughters. Meanwhile, the boy Samuel grew up in the presence of the Lord. – 1 Samuel 2:21
Like Hannah, many of us are waiting on the Lord for something. We pray and pray and it seems our prayers hit the ceiling of heaven and merely fall to the ground unanswered. We are alive but not really living the way we want to. We know that we are destined to be more than we are right now but have no means to get to where we want to be. We cry and cry to the Lord; sleep eludes us and our favorite food just doesn’t taste that good anymore. People around us remind us to be thankful but they have no idea how it feels to be expectant but unable to deliver. Imagine a woman pregnant who cannot put to bed even after her due date has passed; it’s not a comfortable feeling. It is not as if we are not grateful to God for what we have right now but when a great need hasn’t been met, what one already has seems to lack the importance and value that it truly holds. I can identify with this kind of feeling – I am living in that town right now; the town of delay.
But I know enough to remind myself, and hopefully to encourage you that delay is not denial. God himself closed Hannah’s womb. How else do you get a testimony without adversity? Hannah herself testifies in 1 Samuel 2:6 that it is indeed the Lord that brings death and makes alive. The same God who closed her womb opened it up for her to have sons and daughters but in his own time. How we need to learn to be grateful at all times – even while we wait. I can testify that this is one of the hardest things to do. God answers all prayers. There are three ways he can answer – Yes, No and Wait. He knows the perfect time for us because He can see the end from the beginning. He can see around corners and bends that we have no visibility to. He knows and wants what is best for us.
Just like God had a plan for Hannah, He has a plan for us. All we need to do is trust Him and give glory to His Name. God will be there for us; He is always comes just in the nick of time. Believe that the delay you are experiencing right now does not mean denial. You will get there someday.
So in the cause of time Hannah conceived and gave birth to a son. She named him Samuel, saying, “Because I asked the Lord for him.” – 1 Samuel 1:20
And the Lord was gracious to Hannah; she conceived and gave birth to three sons and two daughters. Meanwhile, the boy Samuel grew up in the presence of the Lord. – 1 Samuel 2:21
Like Hannah, many of us are waiting on the Lord for something. We pray and pray and it seems our prayers hit the ceiling of heaven and merely fall to the ground unanswered. We are alive but not really living the way we want to. We know that we are destined to be more than we are right now but have no means to get to where we want to be. We cry and cry to the Lord; sleep eludes us and our favorite food just doesn’t taste that good anymore. People around us remind us to be thankful but they have no idea how it feels to be expectant but unable to deliver. Imagine a woman pregnant who cannot put to bed even after her due date has passed; it’s not a comfortable feeling. It is not as if we are not grateful to God for what we have right now but when a great need hasn’t been met, what one already has seems to lack the importance and value that it truly holds. I can identify with this kind of feeling – I am living in that town right now; the town of delay.
But I know enough to remind myself, and hopefully to encourage you that delay is not denial. God himself closed Hannah’s womb. How else do you get a testimony without adversity? Hannah herself testifies in 1 Samuel 2:6 that it is indeed the Lord that brings death and makes alive. The same God who closed her womb opened it up for her to have sons and daughters but in his own time. How we need to learn to be grateful at all times – even while we wait. I can testify that this is one of the hardest things to do. God answers all prayers. There are three ways he can answer – Yes, No and Wait. He knows the perfect time for us because He can see the end from the beginning. He can see around corners and bends that we have no visibility to. He knows and wants what is best for us.
Just like God had a plan for Hannah, He has a plan for us. All we need to do is trust Him and give glory to His Name. God will be there for us; He is always comes just in the nick of time. Believe that the delay you are experiencing right now does not mean denial. You will get there someday.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
The Bitter Waters of Mara
"Don't call me Naomi," she told them. "Call me Mara, because the Almighty has made my life very bitter. I went away full, but the lord has brought me back empty. Why call me Naomi? The Lord has afflicted me; the Almighty has brought misfortune upon me." - Ruth 1:20-21
A woman of strength; a woman of substance
Richly honored and respected in my husband presence.
My sons, a symbol of my strong back and great will
You promised to keep me, protect me and fill me
Instead I went out full and came back empty
Don’t call me Naomi; that is no longer my name
I am Mara; I choose this calling for all my shame.
Now I am discouraged; tempted to be worldly.
My husband is gone and my sons are no more.
But you gave me a daughter whom I now adore.
Afflicted with pain, I long for you to heal my pain.
You gave my Ruth to Boaz to refill my cup
Because of your grace, I now have an attitude of worship.
I have a brand new son; I am Naomi once more.
No longer bitter; no longer angry.
I am filled with calm because I have been restored.
Richly honored and respected in my husband presence.
My sons, a symbol of my strong back and great will
You promised to keep me, protect me and fill me
Instead I went out full and came back empty
Don’t call me Naomi; that is no longer my name
I am Mara; I choose this calling for all my shame.
Now I am discouraged; tempted to be worldly.
My husband is gone and my sons are no more.
But you gave me a daughter whom I now adore.
Afflicted with pain, I long for you to heal my pain.
You gave my Ruth to Boaz to refill my cup
Because of your grace, I now have an attitude of worship.
I have a brand new son; I am Naomi once more.
No longer bitter; no longer angry.
I am filled with calm because I have been restored.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Are You a Lost Christian?
For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control, and perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But if anyone does not have them, he is near-sighted and blind, and has forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins. Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make calling and election sure. For if you do these things, you will never fall, and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. – 2 Peter 1:5-11
What are you pursuing in your life? What are the things that you are diligent about? What is your top priority in life? Is your big thing money, a business or a spouse? Or are you desperate for a child such that it is the only things you ponder upon? The truth is the most important priority for any believer is the Lord. What you focus on will determine whether you are a lost Christian or a victorious Christian with a great sense of direction. When we put God first in our lives, everything else falls into place. Sadly, many a believer relegates God to the background. We make life changing decisions without talking to God. We buy houses and make huge investments without prayer. It is no surprise that after all is said and done, all our efforts have the obvious markings of a DIY (do-it-yourself) job.
We must stay within the boundaries of the covering of God by spending adequate time in His presence and putting all our moves at His altar. Taking time to build up our spiritual resolve helps a great deal both when things are going well and when tough times arise. When we are on a mountain, our relationship with God humbles us and reminds us that if not for the Lord, we will not be where we are. It allows us to show kindness and love to others as we thank God for His grace and mercy on us. If things get difficult, God gives us the strength through His Word to persevere and hold on. We know because of His presence in us in the form of the Holy Spirit that help is on the way.
But when we fail to spend time with God and increase in various aspects of our spiritual walk, we put ourselves in a position where we become more or less spiritually blind. In no time, simple temptations that ought not to trip us, mess us up and make us fall publicly. Growing in Christ and fruits of the Spirit requires discipline. Are you lost as a Christian or well on your way to making your calling and election sure?
What are you pursuing in your life? What are the things that you are diligent about? What is your top priority in life? Is your big thing money, a business or a spouse? Or are you desperate for a child such that it is the only things you ponder upon? The truth is the most important priority for any believer is the Lord. What you focus on will determine whether you are a lost Christian or a victorious Christian with a great sense of direction. When we put God first in our lives, everything else falls into place. Sadly, many a believer relegates God to the background. We make life changing decisions without talking to God. We buy houses and make huge investments without prayer. It is no surprise that after all is said and done, all our efforts have the obvious markings of a DIY (do-it-yourself) job.
We must stay within the boundaries of the covering of God by spending adequate time in His presence and putting all our moves at His altar. Taking time to build up our spiritual resolve helps a great deal both when things are going well and when tough times arise. When we are on a mountain, our relationship with God humbles us and reminds us that if not for the Lord, we will not be where we are. It allows us to show kindness and love to others as we thank God for His grace and mercy on us. If things get difficult, God gives us the strength through His Word to persevere and hold on. We know because of His presence in us in the form of the Holy Spirit that help is on the way.
But when we fail to spend time with God and increase in various aspects of our spiritual walk, we put ourselves in a position where we become more or less spiritually blind. In no time, simple temptations that ought not to trip us, mess us up and make us fall publicly. Growing in Christ and fruits of the Spirit requires discipline. Are you lost as a Christian or well on your way to making your calling and election sure?
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Doing the Word of God
“For it is not those who hear the law that are righteous in God’s sight, but it is those who obey the law who will be declared righteous.” – Romans 2:13
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror, and after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it – he will be blessed in what he does. – James 1:22-25
God’s Word is our manual for living. We are called to study and meditate of God’s Word so that our lives are transformed from the inside out. The knowledge of God’s Word and the application of it in our personal lives are crucial. The Word does us no good if all we have done is memorize the scriptures and we have ignored the application. What good does it go when we rattle off the scripture verses and our lives reflect the complete opposite of the image of God?
God is not moved by what we know but by how we live. He does not look at the outward display of our faith but rather at our hearts. It is easier to be a hearer than it is to be a doer. But sadly, unless we do what we have heard it has no effect on our lives. In order to tap into the power of the word, we have to apply the truth in God’s word diligently in our lives. God’s word is power – there is no doubt about that. But it is very possible to know the word and have no significant power in our lives because we have refused to do what the word says. When we demonstrate our knowledge of the word through speech alone and there is no action to back it up, we deceive ourselves.
Jesus has set a great example for us on what it means to be a doer of the Word. We have all the direction we need. It’s time to follow His example and start to practice what we preach.
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror, and after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it – he will be blessed in what he does. – James 1:22-25
God’s Word is our manual for living. We are called to study and meditate of God’s Word so that our lives are transformed from the inside out. The knowledge of God’s Word and the application of it in our personal lives are crucial. The Word does us no good if all we have done is memorize the scriptures and we have ignored the application. What good does it go when we rattle off the scripture verses and our lives reflect the complete opposite of the image of God?
God is not moved by what we know but by how we live. He does not look at the outward display of our faith but rather at our hearts. It is easier to be a hearer than it is to be a doer. But sadly, unless we do what we have heard it has no effect on our lives. In order to tap into the power of the word, we have to apply the truth in God’s word diligently in our lives. God’s word is power – there is no doubt about that. But it is very possible to know the word and have no significant power in our lives because we have refused to do what the word says. When we demonstrate our knowledge of the word through speech alone and there is no action to back it up, we deceive ourselves.
Jesus has set a great example for us on what it means to be a doer of the Word. We have all the direction we need. It’s time to follow His example and start to practice what we preach.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
What Comes Out Of Your Mouth?
I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt. Open your mouth and I will fill it. - Psalm 81:10
May the people praise you, O God; may all the nations’ peoples praise you. Then the land will yield its harvest, and God, our God will bless us. God will bless us, and all the ends of the earth will fear him. – Psalm 67:5-7
We have to be mindful of what we are saying to ourselves, about or situations and about others. There is nothing more dangerous than a ruthless tongue. Sometimes people will say negative things concerning our lives but the Bible has told us what to do in such situations. In Isaiah 54:17, it declares that no weapon forged against you will prevail, and that you will refute every tongue that accuses you. It reminds us that this is the heritage of the servants of the Lord and this is our vindication from Him. So we must never be worried, hung-up, upset, sad, suicidal or disillusioned about what somebody has said or done concerning us. It is of no importance – quite frankly it is a waste of time praying about it!
What we must focus on is what is coming out of our mouths during difficult times. You shall essentially have what you say. What you focus and ponder upon, you will surely become. Jesus tells us says in Mark 11:24 to have faith in God. Even when things look bad, we must continue to proclaim that Jesus is Lord. We must also continue to believe, confess and act according to what God has said and not how we feel.
The words that are coming out of our mouth are crucial. Maintaining an attitude of praise and belief is our key to victory so we must watch what are saying. It is only when we chose to praise God at all times that He comes to inhabit our praises and walk with us. If you want big rewards in your journey through life, make praising God a big part of your life. Life and death are in the power of the tongue and you will eat the fruits of your mouth!
May the people praise you, O God; may all the nations’ peoples praise you. Then the land will yield its harvest, and God, our God will bless us. God will bless us, and all the ends of the earth will fear him. – Psalm 67:5-7
We have to be mindful of what we are saying to ourselves, about or situations and about others. There is nothing more dangerous than a ruthless tongue. Sometimes people will say negative things concerning our lives but the Bible has told us what to do in such situations. In Isaiah 54:17, it declares that no weapon forged against you will prevail, and that you will refute every tongue that accuses you. It reminds us that this is the heritage of the servants of the Lord and this is our vindication from Him. So we must never be worried, hung-up, upset, sad, suicidal or disillusioned about what somebody has said or done concerning us. It is of no importance – quite frankly it is a waste of time praying about it!
What we must focus on is what is coming out of our mouths during difficult times. You shall essentially have what you say. What you focus and ponder upon, you will surely become. Jesus tells us says in Mark 11:24 to have faith in God. Even when things look bad, we must continue to proclaim that Jesus is Lord. We must also continue to believe, confess and act according to what God has said and not how we feel.
The words that are coming out of our mouth are crucial. Maintaining an attitude of praise and belief is our key to victory so we must watch what are saying. It is only when we chose to praise God at all times that He comes to inhabit our praises and walk with us. If you want big rewards in your journey through life, make praising God a big part of your life. Life and death are in the power of the tongue and you will eat the fruits of your mouth!
Friday, October 2, 2009
You Can Turn Things Around
“If my people would but listen to me, if Israel would follow my ways, how quickly would I subdue their enemies and turn my hand against their foes! Those who hate the Lord will cringe before him, and their punishment would last forever. But you would be fed with the finest of wheat; with honey from the rock I would satisfy you.” – Psalm 81:13-16
Someone wise once said doing the same things and expecting different results is just insanity. If we do not like the results that we are getting, we need to change what we are doing. God’s Word is clear. He is not an opinion or a philosophy or a religion; the Lord is Reality! If He has given us instructions for us to follow and we chose to go our own way, we cannot expect to reap the promises that have been declared for those who obey. I always tell my children that to obey is much better than sacrifice.
It is so easy to see wisdom in our own methodologies and to go astray. I can identify with you if that is where you are. There are some things and some paths that God will ask us to do and to take that will make no sense. But the Bible has forewarned us in Isaiah 55:8 that our thoughts are not his thoughts neither are our ways his ways. It tells us in 1 Corinthians 3:14 that the man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God. They are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them because they are spiritually discerned. We must never expect to get to the right destination going the wrong way neither can we do the wrong things in an attempt to make things right. If we are really serious about change and turning our lives around, we must listen to the Lord and surrender to His ways.
I am grateful that God is a God of grace and mercy. I am thankful that He is a God of many chances. If all hell is breaking loose around you today, check yourself; evaluate your commitment to the Lord. Are your problems self-inflicted or are you suffering because of your life of righteousness? If you are suffering because of your neglect of the Word of God, there is hope. God promises to turn things around when you listen to Him and follow His ways.
Someone wise once said doing the same things and expecting different results is just insanity. If we do not like the results that we are getting, we need to change what we are doing. God’s Word is clear. He is not an opinion or a philosophy or a religion; the Lord is Reality! If He has given us instructions for us to follow and we chose to go our own way, we cannot expect to reap the promises that have been declared for those who obey. I always tell my children that to obey is much better than sacrifice.
It is so easy to see wisdom in our own methodologies and to go astray. I can identify with you if that is where you are. There are some things and some paths that God will ask us to do and to take that will make no sense. But the Bible has forewarned us in Isaiah 55:8 that our thoughts are not his thoughts neither are our ways his ways. It tells us in 1 Corinthians 3:14 that the man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God. They are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them because they are spiritually discerned. We must never expect to get to the right destination going the wrong way neither can we do the wrong things in an attempt to make things right. If we are really serious about change and turning our lives around, we must listen to the Lord and surrender to His ways.
I am grateful that God is a God of grace and mercy. I am thankful that He is a God of many chances. If all hell is breaking loose around you today, check yourself; evaluate your commitment to the Lord. Are your problems self-inflicted or are you suffering because of your life of righteousness? If you are suffering because of your neglect of the Word of God, there is hope. God promises to turn things around when you listen to Him and follow His ways.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
What Do You Allow Your Mind to Meditate On?
My eyes stay open through the watches of the night that I may meditate on your promises. – Psalm 119:148
“What comes out of a man is what makes him ‘unclean’. For from within, out of men’s hearts, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly. All these evils come from inside and make a man ‘unclean’” – Mark 7:20-23
What you ponder upon, What you ponder upon, you will surely become. You are a wonderful sum total of all your thoughts and actions to date. What we look at, what we read, who we hang out with and where we go all control our thoughts. Our thoughts are formed into our words and our actions. If we plan to live a godly life, we must spend time meditating on the Word of God. You cannot live a godly life without constantly feeding on the Word of God. The issue with us Christians sometimes is that we know the lingo and we are great at “acting like”. We present a front in church, holding up holy hands when our hearts are in a state of decay. We display a form of godliness but deny the power therein. We are the moral police because there are certain things we won’t do and things we won’t say but in the same breath, we are the first to hold a grudge and be malicious to another.
Meditation is crucial in the life of any true believer. It is a time when we are silent in the presence of God. This is when we approach the throne of grace with humility understanding that all our attempts at righteousness at best are like filthy rags before the Lord. This is when we review what is in our hearts and how we treat others. The Bible is clear that it does not matter what title we hold or what position we hold in the church, it all comes to naught if we have not loved. The good news is like all hope is not lost. If we permit the Lord, he can mould our lives into what He wants us to be with His Word. He has given us the Holy Spirit to guide us and instruct us on a daily basis. Whether we choose to accept it or not, something or someone is molding our hearts. I want God to mold my heart as I mediate on His Word, what about you?
“What comes out of a man is what makes him ‘unclean’. For from within, out of men’s hearts, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly. All these evils come from inside and make a man ‘unclean’” – Mark 7:20-23
What you ponder upon, What you ponder upon, you will surely become. You are a wonderful sum total of all your thoughts and actions to date. What we look at, what we read, who we hang out with and where we go all control our thoughts. Our thoughts are formed into our words and our actions. If we plan to live a godly life, we must spend time meditating on the Word of God. You cannot live a godly life without constantly feeding on the Word of God. The issue with us Christians sometimes is that we know the lingo and we are great at “acting like”. We present a front in church, holding up holy hands when our hearts are in a state of decay. We display a form of godliness but deny the power therein. We are the moral police because there are certain things we won’t do and things we won’t say but in the same breath, we are the first to hold a grudge and be malicious to another.
Meditation is crucial in the life of any true believer. It is a time when we are silent in the presence of God. This is when we approach the throne of grace with humility understanding that all our attempts at righteousness at best are like filthy rags before the Lord. This is when we review what is in our hearts and how we treat others. The Bible is clear that it does not matter what title we hold or what position we hold in the church, it all comes to naught if we have not loved. The good news is like all hope is not lost. If we permit the Lord, he can mould our lives into what He wants us to be with His Word. He has given us the Holy Spirit to guide us and instruct us on a daily basis. Whether we choose to accept it or not, something or someone is molding our hearts. I want God to mold my heart as I mediate on His Word, what about you?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)