Calling For Your Best Friend

When I was a little girl, my friends and I would ‘call’ for each other. When I arrived at a friend’s home, I went to the door and instead of knocking I would call out the name of my friend. In a sing – song voice I would call the name twice, pause and then repeat the name twice. This let all family members know exactly who I was there to see. It often prevented siblings from becoming irritated by an interruption to answer the door. It also allowed my friend to know who was outside by the sound of my voice.  My friends did the same when they came over to my house. 

Sometimes my call would not be immediately heard. Loud music or a television set would cover the sound of my voice. If all family members were in a part of the house far from the door, they may not hear me either. In these situations I had a choice to make. I could assume no one was home and go back to my house, or I could call again, in a louder voice.  Persistence always paid off. 

We are told to call upon the Lord and seek him daily. We find many different reasons noted in Scripture. Among the most predominant of these reasons is to praise God and to be saved from enemies. “I will call upon the Lord, Who is to be praised; so shall I be saved from my enemies.” (Psalm 18:3 AMP)   Mercy and forgiveness are also among great reasons to call on God. “For You, O Lord, are good, and ready to forgive [our trespasses, sending them away, letting them go completely and forever]; and You are abundant in mercy and loving-kindness to all those who call upon You.” (Psalm 86:5 AMP)  Calling on Him also arises from thankfulness and results in others coming to know about Him.  “O give thanks unto the Lord, call upon His name, make known His doings among the peoples!” (Psalm 105:1 AMP) 

These reasons are valid for true friends.  Once my call was answered we would spend time together.  We would build each other up and share our gratefulness for the friendship we had.  There were also times when mercy and forgiveness was required by one or the other of us.  I remember how long the walk seemed one day when I had caused a rift in a friendship.  I hesitated before I called out her name.  Hope arose as she answered the door and relief and joy flooded my heart when she accepted my trembling greeting of “Sorry!”  I don’t believe that playing with anyone was ever as much fun as that day. 

Sometimes we may wonder if He even hears or even recognizes our voice.  He has given us promises that He does.  “…The Lord knows those who are His…” (2 Timothy 2:19 AMP)  He will answer us when we call and He will care for us.  “The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him sincerely and in truth.” (Psalm 145:18 AMP) “He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him.” (Psalm 91:15 AMP)  I love these promises. He not only answers us, He calls us by name. “And I will give you the treasures of darkness and hidden riches of secret places, that you may know that it is I, the Lord, the God of Israel, Who calls you by your name.” 

The primary reasons I would call for my friends was that I wanted to see them and play with. We enjoyed spending time together. Sometimes I would go into their home to play or they would come into mine. Other times we would play outside, exploring the far corners of our neighborhood. Anything we did was more fun because we had done it together. God enjoys spending time with us as well. He has made his home with us and desires to be a part of every aspect of our day.

Wherever you are at right now call for Him.  Whether you are needing forgiveness or just wanting to chat, He’s waiting.  So as you go about your day, let this verse be your heart’s prayer. “Hear my cry O God, listen to my prayer.” (Psalm 61:1 AMP)  Then listen for the answer. He will always open the door to spend time with His friend.  Anything you do today will be far better simply because you do it with your best friend.

First time calling?  No problem!  “For everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord [invoking Him as Lord] will be saved.” (Romans 10:13 AMP)  Call and you will become a part of the family and receive more than you ever imagine!  (Note:  If this is your first time calling on God, get with some Christians who can help you begin your walk with Him.)

Connected to the Source

Although it is already late March, it is still pretty cold around here. Some mornings, when I first get up and go down to the den, it is a bit chilly. So I pull the space heater over near my corner of the couch and enjoy its heat as I begin my day. 

A few mornings ago, I pulled the heater to my favorite spot and attempted to turn it on with the remote. This accomplished nothing at all. I then reached down to push the “on” button. There were still no results. Before me on the floor was a little brown box that remained dark, cold and silent.  Following the power cord, I found it securely plugged into an extension cord. Everything appeared fine.  Then I followed the extension cord into the other room, where I found that it had been unplugged from the wall. Without the power source, the heater was incapable of providing any heat. Although it is fairly new and not broken, it could not work at all. Without the power source, it could not serve the purpose for which it was made. 

We, as Christians, are very much like that little heater.  We can be in perfect operating order to perform as we have been designed. Yet without a secure connection to our power source, we cannot produce the desired results.  “Yet for us there is [only] one God, the Father, Who is the Source of all things and for Whom we [have life], and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through and by Whom are all things and through and by Whom we [ourselves exist].” (1 Corinthians 8:6 AMP)  Bing planted in the soil is very similar to being plugged into an electrical socket.  Jesus told his disciples, “ I am the Vine; you are the branches. Whoever lives in Me and I in him bears much (abundant) fruit. However, apart from Me [cut off from vital union with Me] you can do nothing.” (John 15:5 AMP)  Our source is the Heavenly Father and our connection is our Savior, Jesus. 

In order to remain plugged in with God, we must seek Him.  “Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) are they who keep His testimonies, and who seek, inquire for and of Him and crave Him with the whole heart.” (Psalm 119:2 AMP)  Seek is like an intense search.  Notice that we inquire of and for and we crave Him.  This is not just a passing acknowledgement of God’s existence.  When we inquire of or ask questions, we listen for the answers. Something we crave will not leave our mind, so we go after it. Other definitions of seek include the word, require.  This is an absolute need.  When we are seeking the Father, we will not let anything interrupt us.  This is to be an ongoing and constant part of our life.  Seeking God with your whole heart may be time consuming and appear to be a lot of work.  But consider the result in this verse.  We will be blessed.  That is being happy, fortunate and envied.  I’ll take that.  We will also be prepared to give love to others. 

Being plugged into our source, we can both receive and also give many things.  “…Be strengthened (perfected, completed, made what you ought to be); be encouraged and consoled and comforted; be of the same [agreeable] mind one with another; live in peace, and [then] the God of love [Who is the Source of affection, goodwill, love, and benevolence toward men] and the Author and Promoter of peace will be with you.” (2 Corinthians 13:11 AMP)  Comfort, encouragement, peace, affection, goodwill and benevolence are all promised. Yet this Scripture mentions only a small portion of the richness of God’s provision.  We can receive and give, not only these, but all that is in the nature of God.  This means that we will have what we need, when we need it.  That’s a great promise. 

Although my heater appeared fine by being plugged into another cord, it was not going all the way to the source.  Once the plug was connected to the wall outlet, the heater ran fine.  I was able to sit and enjoy my cup of coffee and time with God.  The heater that had been dark, cold and silent now hummed with a soft orange glow and produced the warmth to take the chill of this nippy morning.  When we seek and plug into our Heavenly Father we will also operate the way He has planned for us.  We will bless others with the warmth of His love.

 Take time to truly seek and plug in to the source of all good things.  Don’t settle for a life that appears fine.  Find where the interruption to you connection is.  Complete the circuit to your loving Father.  There is never a power outage with God!

Getting to Know What You Have

We recently purchased a new vehicle.  It is a newer, small SUV and quite different from what we have been driving.  We purchased it on a Saturday afternoon and our time was tight.  As we left for another appointment Joe, the salesman, invited us back on Monday to program our phones and answer any questions we may have.  This was an offer we gladly took him up on. 

Before returning to the dealership, we spent time going through the owner’s manual seeking as many answers as we could find on our own.  By doing this we learned many things about our new vehicle.  When Monday afternoon arrived, we had a list of questions.  Joe helped us with all of them.  When we left, our questions had been answered and we had an invitation to return with any other questions as they came up.  I am reasonably sure that more questions will arise.  Skimming through the manual, we found features we were not even aware existed in the vehicle.  During our meeting, we could only ask about the features were already aware of.  At this point my husband and I feel we don’t even know what there is to not know about. 

This process has me thinking about our spiritual lives.  God has designed this life for us, much like the vehicle we purchased.  He has provided benefits and blessings for each of our lives.  And similar to a vehicle’s maintenance schedule, He has also given us responsibilities. These can be found in the Bible. 

As with our owner’s manual, we should both read the Bible in its entirety, as well as look to specific areas for accurate direction.  Reading through the Word of God will open our eyes to the truth of all that is available to us and all that is expected of us.  Every time we do so, new things will catch our eyes and our hearts.  It is far too much to take in with one read.  When we have specific areas that we are seeking truth about, we can study passages that relate to that topic. This will bring light to God’s direction for each area of our lives. “Study and be eager and do your utmost to present yourself to God approved (tested by trial), a workman who has no cause to be ashamed, correctly analyzing and accurately dividing [rightly handling and skillfully teaching] the Word of Truth.”  (2 Timothy 2:15 AMP) Pastors and teachers fill a role very similar to the role Joe plays for our new car.  Because they have knowledge of God’s word and ways, they offer assistance to us. Along with the knowledge, they also often possess insight into the meaning of many passages.  This is conveyed both in teachings and in personal conversations.  Just as Joe has studied the details of our vehicle and offered us information about the SUV, preachers and teachers study and then present the Word of God in messages, classes, sermons and personal meetings.  ^“And His gifts were [varied; He Himself appointed and gave men to us] some to be apostles (special messengers), some prophets (inspired preachers and expounders), some evangelists (preachers of the Gospel, traveling missionaries), some pastors (shepherds of His flock) and teachers. His intention was the perfecting and the full equipping of the saints (His consecrated people), [that they should do] the work of ministering toward building up Christ’s body (the church),” (Ephesians 4:11-12 AMP)   This teaching and counseling alone cannot convey all the information about a vehicle and falls far short of everything we need. Personal study is cannot be neglected. 

Another source of information we received before we even purchased our vehicle was my brother.  He has owned a similar model for several years now. We received not only an account his experience, but also that of his friends who own similar vehicles.  We can gain great insights concerning Bible truths by talking with other Christians.  Therefore encourage (admonish, exhort) one another and edify (strengthen and build up) one another, just as you are doing.  (1 Thessalonians 5:11 AMP) We don’t have to all be trained teachers to have seen God’s word active in our lives.  What we share about our experience may not be the same as someone else’s, but it can bring insight and encouragement.  

Reading the owner’s manual ourselves, taught us quite a bit about our new vehicle.  Regular reading and study of the Bible is essential to gaining wisdom and knowledge.  God has provided His word for all to receive directly.  Good teaching from those who have walked with God and studied the Bible is also vital to a healthy Christian walk. And regular opportunities to discuss the Lord, in organized groups or just with a friend or two will enhance our experience as we walk out our daily lives. 

Joe invited us to return with any further questions as they arise.  This process of learning our SUV will be ongoing.  We also have an open invitation to study and hear from God.  We can always grow and learn more. 

Make the effort to learn what you have in your relationship with God.  Study the manual, share with friends and receive from those who have been trained to help you.  The journey through this life will be greatly enhanced.

Simmering Dreams

Since we started eating healthier, I have begun making most all of my own sauces and dressings. I have a really great recipe for barbecue sauce. It’s quite simple to make. I mix all the ingredients together in a sauce pot and bring it to a boil. Then the sauce must simmer for 20 minutes. At the end of the 20 minutes the sauce is ready to use or can be put into containers and stored for future enjoyment. 

While the sauce simmering, it requires some attention but not my total focus. So as I set the sauce to simmer, I started about other tasks. First I cleaned of the utensils and measuring cups I had used in combining the ingredients and wiped down the counter. I stirred the sauce and went to change the laundry from washer to dryer. I stirred the sauce then folded and hung up the clothes that had been in the dryer. I stirred the sauce then selected the clothes I would wear for the day. I did a few other chores and between all of these activities, approximately every three minutes, I took breaks to return to the stove and stir the simmering sauce. When I turned off the burner, I had returned and stirred the sauce a total of seven times. 

As I went about these tasks, I pondered how similar this is to the dreams that God has placed in my heart. These dreams are from God and designed with all the right ingredients. Then it seems the waiting period comes, as the dream simmers in my heart awaiting God’s timing for fulfillment. So what am I to do during this waiting time? I go about my daily life attending to my current responsibilities. Regularly, I need to revisit my dream. During these visits I pray and remind myself of what my future holds. This stirs the dream up within me. I am to continue to live out my life faithfully; watching for what God has for me each day. And just as I went back to my barbecue sauce every few minutes, I must regularly go back to the dreams that are simmering in my heart. 

Both the time a sauce simmers and a dream is delayed are critically important. The time may seem long and even unnecessary. It may be tedious to attend to something that is not yet ready. But without this time of simmering both the sauce and the dream may be ruined. In the barbecue sauce, the seasonings need to be brought out to their full taste. God-given dreams can only be truly appreciated after my character has been enhanced. Like the sauce, bringing a dream about too quickly, will not provide the full blessing the Heavenly Father intends. 

Just as both sauce and dreams must wait for the appointed time, attention must be paid to them during the wait. If I were to bring my sauce to a boil, reduce the heat, put on the cover and walk away for the 20 minutes, I would not be happy with the result. If I had failed to set the flame at the proper intensity, the sauce may have boiled too much or not at all. Either is undesirable. Even if the flame was at the proper level, some of the sauce would have become stuck to the bottom and sides of the pot. This would not only cause the scalded portions to be lost, but a burned taste could actually permeate the entire batch. If we fail to water our dreams, disastrous effects can also occur. Inattention can cause the dream to fade from our hearts. God may also require some fine-tuning of the dream that will be missed if we don’t pay attention during the waiting time. Either of these can ruin the fulfillment of the dream. 

Jesus is our example in all this. “Looking away [from all that will distract] to Jesus, Who is the Leader and the Source of our faith [giving the first incentive for our belief] and is also its Finisher [bringing it to maturity and perfection]. He, for the joy [of obtaining the prize] that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising and ignoring the shame, and is now seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:2 AMP)  He continually saw the vision of the salvation that He was here on earth to bring. Yet in the daily life of His ministry, “ He went about doing good and, in particular, curing all who were harassed and oppressed by [the power of] the devil, for God was with Him.” (Acts 10:38b AMP) Jesus followed God’s leading every day of His life. This included the smallest detail all the way up to His death and resurrection. 

Is there a dream from God in your heart? Are there things you are waiting to come about? Faithfully, go about your day doing whatever God has for you that day. This includes regular daily activities and being aware of and obedient to the little things that God calls your attention to. Check in regularly with God on your big dreams. Pray the word over them and fine-tune your vision. If it is of God, it’ll come to pass in His time.

Paired Together

Recently, at the advice of my hairdresser, I began using a new brand of shampoo and conditioner.  I really like the way my hair looks and feels after it is all done.  The shampoo cleans the hair very well, yet by the end of the second washing, there are numerous tangles in my now clean hair.  Attempting to put a comb through my hair at this point would not be too comfortable.  Fortunately this is not time for a comb, but for the conditioner.   With just a small dab, what the conditioner does to my hair is amazing.  Within minutes the tangles are gone, replaced by softness I can feel even though the hair is still wet.  The hair rinses clean and styles nicely.  

Considering this (yes, in the shower) I began to think of the ministry of Paul and Barnabas.  These men had very different personalities and gifts.  By most standards Paul, the straight talker, and Barnabas, the born encourager, were an unlikely pair.  God put them together for His great purpose, and His work was accomplished through this complementary team. 

Paul was very direct and a sometimes blunt speaker.  His teachings are black and white and can be taken as harsh by people who do not read enough to see and hear the heart Paul had for the Body of Christ.  His concern was to convey ‘clean’ living and the path that leads to the greatest life God has to offer.  His writings are remarkably grace-filled, yet can come across as impossible to follow. (Which they are without total reliance on the power of the Holy Spirit)  Hearing only part of what Paul said or paying attention to his manner more than the message could leave the listener discouraged and defeated. 

‘Son of Encouragement’ is the literal meaning of the name Barnabas.  He was born to build others up. I can almost see and hear Barnabas moving through the crowd with his radar out for someone who looks to be down.  “You can do it!”   “Didn’t you hear Paul?  You can do all things through Christ!” (Philippians 4) “Jesus saved us because of His mercy, not any works of righteousness that we had done!” (Titus 3)  “God will work all things together for our good!” (Romans 8)  I can see him pointing people back to portions of Paul’s teaching that emphasize all that Jesus Christ has provided.  He’s the one on the sidelines running beside you as you run toward the finish line of faith. (Hebrews 12) “Don’t quit! Trust in God!”  

 Shampoo without the conditioner leaves the hair clean yet dry and difficult to comb.  Conditioner, without the shampoo, leaves hair soft but not clean.  Used alone, either will result in a ‘less than the best’ condition for the hair.  Strong teaching without encouragement can bring despair.  Encouragement alone, without the pure Word of God, will not promote any real growth and can actually promote spiritual laziness.  Together teaching and encouragement will cause growth and maturity in Christians. 

Individually, Paul and Barnabas each had their shortcomings.  Together they were a powerful and productive team.  They later separated company and travelled with other companions.  I think Paul and Barnabas rubbed off on each other and took a piece of each other with them as God led them on different paths. 

When we find ourselves in one of these roles, we must remember that God has created each of us uniquely.  That person we are working with may be operating exactly as God designed and intends for him/her to act.  Allow others to operate in the manner God created them. We must also be careful not to become envious and wish we were more like our counterparts.  When we are following the Holy Spirit our contribution to the team is equally important.  We are instructed, “And whatever you do [no matter what it is] in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus and in [dependence upon] His Person, giving praise to God the Father through Him.”  (Colossians 3:17 AMP)  Working together as God leads is always the most profitable way.  Paul’s ministry lives on as he wrote a large portion of the New Testament. 

I use other items when styling may hair, as well.  A hair dryer, mousse and hair spray are only a few. God has provided everything we need to grow up in Jesus.  As Paul and Barnabas traveled to many churches, elders and leaders in each city provided support to the young church. No one is in this alone. 

So when you are paired up with someone who seems totally different than you, fill your role to the best of your ability.  Leave the rest to God and keep watch over what God can do through you.

What’s Your Contact Status?

As I opened my computer at work this morning, My “Lync Frequent Contacts” window popped up as it always does.  Lync is the method of instant messaging my co-workers.  One of my frequent contacts had been on medical leave, recovering from surgery for several months.  Her name had been followed by “offline # days.”  The # had been ever increasing.  She returned to work last week while I was on vacation.  Yesterday had been the first time I had again seen the word “Available” and a green box beside her name.  It looked so good, because it represented that she was healthy and strong enough to be back in the spot she fills so well. 

Different messages can be displayed beside a name.  I have already mentioned Available and Offline.  There are also, Busy, Away, In a Meeting, Do Not Disturb, Inactive, and various notes that can include how long the person will be in the current status.   These are all helpful in knowing when to contact someone or when to expect an answer.  Because someone covers my breaks using my log in, there are only three messages associated with my name.  When I sign in I am Available.  If I do not use my computer for a period of time my computer locks, and I become Inactive.  When I log off for the night my status reads Offline. 

Is God on my Frequent Contact List?  Fortunately, I can answer ‘yes’ to this question.  I speak with Him throughout the day.  I also know that I am on His. Whenever I look to contact Him, the status is always available.  Sometimes I wonder which status message He receives when attempting to speak with me.  

I would love to say that I am always available and just like young Samuel, who jumped up in the middle of the night.   “Then Samuel answered, Speak, Lord, for Your servant is listening.” (1Samuel 3:10 AMP) God shared His plan with Samuel.   For many years and he listened and played his part well.  Although this is becoming increasingly true in my life, I often fall short. 

‘Inactive’ is probably the most common of my unavailable responses to God.  I may simply not be paying attention to Him.  Be it cooking, cleaning, playing a computer game or watching TV, I can get caught up in other things and miss His call.  None of these are bad things, but I can concentrate on them to the exclusion of listening for the Holy Spirit.  Just as I may have other duties at work, I must frequently check my computer so that it does not lock and cause me to miss e-mails or messages. Likewise I should frequently check in with God throughout my daily activities. 

‘Busy,’ ‘Away’ and ‘In a Meeting’ are more intentional.  These are the times that I do not want my schedule interrupted.  I have a plan with places to go, things to do and people to see. It reminds me of the parable of the King’s wedding feast. (See Matthew 22:1-15)  The excuses given for not attending have some merit, just as most of my plans are good things.  These plans may involve family or ministry work.  Even writing these stories, which I believe God has called me to do, can interfere with His plan for the moment.  I must always be ready to allow God to mix things up for the benefit of His kingdom.  I have even caught myself saying, “Not now Lord, I’m studying Your Word.”  It would be comical if it wasn’t true. 

‘Do Not Disturb” is the worst of the messages I can give to my loving heavenly Father.  This comes out when I shrink back from allowing Him into particular areas of my life.  This may involve forgiveness for another or even myself. Even in this, God is caring for my best interest.  “So also My heavenly Father will deal with every one of you if you do not freely forgive your brother from your heart his offenses.” (Matthew 18:35 AMP)  He does not want my refusal to forgive to separate me from Him in any way.   ‘Do Not Disturb’ may also involve past hurts that I am unwilling to face and deal with.  God wants to bring healing, but I want to protect myself.  I must remember that He is tender and kind and receive His grace and healing in order to be able to bring grace and healing to others.  “…inasmuch as the Lord is full of pity and compassion and tenderness and mercy.” (James 5:11b AMP) 

‘Offline’ would involve shutting God out.  I can happily say that this setting no longer appears in my life.  After serving God for many years, I went through a time when I just gave up.  Having come back from this dark hopelessness, I know and enjoy my complete dependency on Him.  Even as I wake in the night, I will pray and sing to Him.  I am striving to be open to Him at all times.      

What message are you giving to God today?  Are you Available and ready to hear and obey?  I hope so. Would Inactive or just not quite paying attention better describe you?  Maybe it is Busy, Away or In a Meeting.  For any of these, open your eyes, ears and heart to the nudges of the Holy Spirit.  If you have put out the Do Not Disturb sign, please hear the heart of the Father, who cares only for your very best.  If Offline (either because you have not entered a relationship with Jesus Christ or you have allowed your heart to stop trusting or following Him) know that God loves you more than you can imagine. 

Keep God on your ‘Frequent Contact’ list.  He’s Available!  Are you?

A Different Way, A Better Way

We have just returned from a week long vacation. One of the main details that had to be worked out in planning our time away was to arrange care for our dogs, Beamer and Kari. We were actively seeking someone who would come to house and dog sit during our absence. At 22 years old, our son has more single friends that could possibly relocate to our home for a short time. Though he asked around, he was unable to find someone who was available during the needed time. One week before our planned departure, we were still actively seeking someone to fill this need.

By this time I had become a bit nervous. If it were merely a weekend trip, we could accept a caregiver coming in two to three times per day to feed and play with the dogs. But this trip was going to be eight days long. That time frame was far too long.  Beamer and Kari needed a human presence for at least a part of every day, even if it was primarily someone sleeping in the home. We continued to pray and look, believing God had the perfect person to meet this need for us.

Exactly one week before we were to leave, I was praying for the answer to become clear to us. The thought occurred to me that I should request prayer in our small group gathering the following day. As soon as this thought crossed my mind, the real answer became clear to me. A short while back a family in our group had happily offered to care for the two dogs of another family. When I asked concerning our dogs and this trip, they were happy to help, and their children were very excited at the thought of having two dogs to play with for an entire week.

How often do we pray about situations over and over again with an idea of what the answer should look like? Often during these times we don’t even know what the real need is. I’m so glad that our heavenly father does truly see and meet every need we have. He sees more accurately than we do and graciously wants to meet the real need, not the one we perceive. “for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.” (Matthew 6:8 AMP)  My husband, son and I all thought we knew how this should work out. We were sure having someone to stay and care for the dogs in their own home was the proper direction. Instead, we learned this valuable principle. “A man’s mind plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps and makes them sure.” (Proverbs 16:9 AMP)  It is very comforting to know that although we are to make plans, God will direct us in the right and secure way to go. 

I had been so busy looking for an answer that looked the way I expected it, that I nearly missed God’s real plan. His plans were so much better. “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, says the Lord.” (Isaiah 55:8 AMP)  Not only did we go on a vacation, but Beamer and Kari went on their own vacation. They had a new place to stay and children to play with. So while we were away having a special time with family, they were able to have a special time with children who doted on them. At the end of the week we all came home and were happily reunited. 

So I learned a valuable lesson about prayer through all this. We are told “Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God.” (Philippians 4:6 AMP)  Along with not being anxious I think I will start adding to my specific requests the phrase “unless You have something better in mind, Lord.” I will also precede my prayers with, “Show me Your ways, O Lord; teach me Your paths.” (Psalm 25:4 AMP)  I most definitely do not know as much as I think I do. But I do know that His way is always better than mine. 

As you go about your day and bring your needs and desires before the Lord, be open as you ask him for the things you want. Always check to see if he has a different way. If God does have a different way, it will always be a better way.

Keep the Son in Your Eyes

Have you ever played shadow tag as a child? We frequently played this game on sunny days or with another light source when playing inside. In the version that I learned, the person who was the chaser\tagger would count to 10 and then run after the other players. He would attempt to step on someone’s shadow. If your shadow was stepped on, you were temporarily out of the game. The last person to evade the tag of a shadow chaser was the winner.

How often do we as adults and believers in Jesus still run from the shadow chasers? Hard times and negative circumstances attempt to defeat us. But do they truly touch the real us? Or do they merely attack the shadow of who we are in Christ? Concerning this life the Bible states, “our days on the earth are like a shadow, and there is no hope or expectation of remaining.” (1 Chronicles 29:15b AMP)  Eternity is the true reality for the believer. The spirit man within us will live far beyond the problems of this life. We can also live in peace and joy during these times, knowing that only our earthly existence is being touched.

Newcomers to the game of shadow tag generally play with the same strategy you would play regular tag. The strategy involves running from the pursuer, always aware of how close the pursuer is getting to you. If one is a fast runner, this strategy can be successful. If one is not able to run as fast as the pursuer, this strategy will not bring about good results. Either way this strategy becomes exhausting.

Man-made religion and good works are bit like this strategy. We can try to outrun temptation or trials by setting up rules to live by and formulas to follow. Don’t get me wrong, living by the principles in God’s word is essential to life. Trying to live by them in our own power is both exhausting and futile. Trials, like the pursuer in the game, can come at us from an unexpected turn, touching our shadow and our daily lives.

The more experienced and most successful players of shadow tag use the most unorthodox and unexpected defense. During the initial 10 count, this player acts like the others and puts as much distance between him and the pursuer as possible. Once the pursuit is on, the tactics change drastically. The skilled player no longer runs from the pursuit, but turns to face it.  He has chosen the path of his run carefully and now the sun is directly before him. Facing the sun, his shadow is always behind him. In order for the shadow chaser to step on the shadow, he must pass the actual player, who is ready to maneuver and block the attack.

God’s word gives us many of the same principles for our approach to life. We are to run with the Son of God daily. Just as sunshine provides light, Jesus is our light. “Once more Jesus addressed the crowd. He said, I am the Light of the world. He who follows Me will not be walking in the dark, but will have the Light which is Life.” (John 8:12 AMP)   When the trials of life find us, we are to turn and face them head on. We are always to look to the Son, seeing the brightness of His promises even more than our problems.

When we turn toward the enemy, he stands face to face with the real us. He sees this truth, “Yet amid all these things we are more than conquerors and gain a surpassing victory through Him Who loved us.” (Romans 8:37 AMP)  It is time for us to, “Arise [from the depression and prostration in which circumstances have kept you—rise to a new life]! Shine (be radiant with the glory of the Lord), for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you!” (Isaiah 60:1 AMP)  He must look at that glory and pass that conqueror to get to the shadow that is this life.  Although he may at times actually step on that shadow, but he cannot touch the spirit that has an eternal destiny.

So play the game to win and have fun while you play.  Do not look at the circumstances and trials that pursue you.   Remember that this life on earth is a mere shadow. The real you is eternal so always walk in peace and joy keeping the Son of God in eyes.  

Come When You Are Called!

One morning as I was spending time in the Word, My dog Beamer came up to cuddle beside me. I called to Kari, my other dog who was across the room, to come also. (I have two dogs and two sides so there is plenty of room.) But Kari stayed aloof that morning. She jumped up on the other couch and snuggled into the afghan that was there. 

David came down from upstairs and gave the dogs their morning vitamins and dental sticks. He then let them outside before he left for work. After this, the dogs went to their favorite chairs in the living room, while I continued to study in the den. 

As I was wrapping up my study time, Kari came and jumped up on the couch beside me. It was really time for me to go so that I could finish getting ready for work, but I gave her five minutes of belly rubs and cuddling. I then hurried to get ready for work. I regretted that it could only be five minutes, but I really had no time left before I needed to get out the door in order to make it to work.  As I fixed my hair and lunch, I considered how much more time Kari and I could have shared had she only come earlier, when I initially called for her.

My thoughts then turned to how much time I may have missed with God by not coming when He first calls. 

What do I have to do that is so important that I cannot immediately say, “I’m coming, Abba.”  Is cleaning the kitchen, reading a book, watching TV or playing a computer game really that important? None of these things are bad, but nor are they never reasons to ignore God’s call to time away with Him.  Is working in a ministry or helping others more important than coming when the Father calls?  Rest is a good thing, but is hitting that snooze button the best thing I can do?  Jesus tells the story of a man who gave the banquet and invited many. (See Luke 14:16-24)  One by one they came with excuses. One had recently bought land, another had purchased oxen and a third had recently married. The man giving the banquet said, “ Go out into the highways and hedges and urge and constrain [them] to yield and come in, so that my house may be filled. For I tell you, not one of those who were invited shall taste my supper.” (Luke 14-24 AMP)  I do not want this to be the result of my inattention to God’s invitations.   No excuse is worth missing what God has called me to.  

So what does this invitation from the Lord sound like?  At times it is a call to listen.  “Incline your ear [submit and consent to the divine will] and come to Me; hear, and your soul will revive; and I will make an everlasting covenant or league with you, even the sure mercy (kindness, goodwill, and compassion) promised to David.”  (Isaiah 55:3 AMP)  At other times it is a call to rest.  Jesus called out, “ Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest. [I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls.]” (Matthew 11:28 AMP)  And still at another time it is a call to romance.  (See Song of Solomon chapter 4)  In these and other places in the Bible, God has made it obvious that He longs for us to come and spend time close to Him.  As a Father for His children, a Bridegroom for His bride and a Friend for a friend; God longs for us.  (Isn’t that amazing?!) 

It is our choice to respond to His call.  We can be like Beamer was that morning and come of our own choice to an open invitation.  We can come as soon as we hear our name called.  Or we can set our own schedule.  I hope I will always share the feelings of the psalmist when he said.  “But it is good for me to draw near to God; I have put my trust in the Lord God and made Him my refuge, that I may tell of all Your works.” (Psalm 73:28 AMP) God never has somewhere else to go like I did that morning. He will always be there when we call. So come often.  But, to come when He calls is the best!  Answering regular invitations can preclude the need to run in times of trouble.   

So what will your response be when God calls to you?  Will you come immediately?  Will you delay and only receive some of what you could have?  Will you ignore the call or make excuses and not listen to His voice.  The choice is yours.  Choose well.

Banded Together For Strength

Several weeks ago, I wounded my baby toe. I'm not sure really how it happened. It seemed fine when I first got up, but later that morning my left foot hurt when I attempted to walk. The dogs had been playing and I believe one may have stepped on my foot at just the right angle to injure the toe. I am not sure if it was broken, sprained or simply stubbed, but soon the toe was badly swollen and bruised. It needed some attention and support to heal.

Whatever the cause or the extent of the injury the treatment was the same. I needed to reduce the swelling, cushion against the shoe and provide support to the toe. This was accomplished by first wrapping a dressing around the toe. Although even moving the toe enough to wrap a bandage around to it caused pain, it was necessary to permit greater pain in the future. Once the toe was bandaged it was taped to several other toes beside it. Being taped to the next toes limits independent movement. This provided the stability to immobilize the toe during the healing process.

Brothers and sisters in Christ need to provide support by coming alongside someone who is weak or has been hurt.  Like the human body, the body of Christ has been equipped to band together to assist in healing.  One method we are encouraged by is “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” (Hebrews 10:24-25 ESV)   Whether the believer is young in his faith or has simply been wounded by the storms of life, meeting regularly can encourage a battered soul.

Other injuries can be self inflicted by sin.  In these cases the body of Christ is still called upon to stand together.  “Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.”  (Galatians 6:1 ESV)  The support of the group will help the wounded member stand straight as God intended.  It will provide strength and protection against the forces that attempt to pull us away from our callings.

By a few days after my initial injury the bruising had spread across four of my toes.  There was no pain that accompanied it, but the vessels had broken and the bruising looked awful for all four toes.  Banding together and bearing others burdens can cause some shared hurt by the group.  Our hearts become involved when we truly care for each other as God intends us to. “Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.”   (Romans 12:15 ESV)  We must be careful to care for ourselves as we care for others. 

It doesn’t really matter how the wound has occurred, a broken brother needs the help of the body to heal and be restored.  Underlying causes can and must be dealt with separately to avoid further problems.  We must be on the lookout for obstacles that can cause jammed toe and jammed lives.  These can be physical objects, people who wound with words or actions or temptations that can cause sin. Avoiding these and knowing how to respond to them will reduce further pain.

Several weeks have passed since I first hurt my toe.  I only now have stopped taping the toes.  There are still twinges of pain at times.  I’m careful as to which shoes I wear and how I place my steps.  But I know that I am on the mend.  I am also on the lookout to prevent a reoccurrence. 

If you are hurting today, seek out members of God’s family to stand with you to hold you up.  If you are strong keep your eyes open for someone who needs your encouragement and strength.  In all circumstances follow Paul’s instructions. “ addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart,” (Ephesians 5:19 ESV)

Passing on Directions

One evening, I was overwhelmed with time commitments. My husband graciously offered to run two errands for me. The first stop was a location that he knew well, but the other was a home that he had never been to. I had only been there twice, both times after dark, and was unsure of how to give him good directions. My initial call to get the proper directions was not immediately answered. So David took off to the first location, taking along with him the items that were to be dropped off at the second home.  If we could not connect with our friends, he would simply bring these items back home with him.

Short they after he left, I received call back and was able to get the easiest directions to my friend’s home. I immediately called David to let him know. So as he left the first location he called for directions. There were several turns including one that had a landmark rather than a street number. I stayed on the phone with him and directed him turn by turn.  He was able to find the home, drop off the items and return to our home.  What looked like it might not work out at all ended up running quite smoothly. Errands were run, David returned and I was able to focus on other things that required my attention.

I thought about how this is the way things should work in the body of Christ. We are commanded to help one another in their struggles.  "Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."  (Galatians 6:2 ESV) That is exactly what my husband did for me that evening. I had more things to do then time would allow. Although I felt that I should be taking care of these commitments myself, his willing offer lifted a weight off of me.

Another principle that I saw involved one helping another to find the right path. You see this throughout Scripture. The epistles are all written by one believer giving directions on how to walk out a journey of faith. Sometimes this was one-on-one, as in Paul writing to Timothy. Other times letters were written to entire churches of a specific town. In still other times it was written to many brothers scattered around, as in the book of James. All of these teachers received their instruction from the Word of God and speaking and listening to the Holy Spirit. They passed on what they had learned to others. "That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we looked upon and have touched with our hands, concerning the word of life— the life was made manifest, and we have seen it, and testify to it and proclaim to you the eternal life," (1 John 1:1-2a ESV)  This passage is a great example, because John goes on to give several directions on how to follow the path Jesus has set for us.

I even thought about not immediately receiving an answer to my first call for directions. Sometimes we do not receive the answers we seek from God as quickly as we would like. In these times we must choose to continue looking to God and wait patiently for His response. We may be tempted to jump ahead and settle for what we think is right, rather than waiting on Him. This always causes undue trouble and wasted energy. Had I tried to give directions from my memory it would have been far more difficult for David to find his way. Likewise, if we do not wait for clear direction from God, we cause trouble both ourselves and those around us.  It is best to wait and believe this promise from Father, "When he calls to me, I will answer him;" (Psalm 91:15a ESV) 

My husband was a great help to me that evening. And by writing down the directions and relaying them onto him, I was able to make his path easy.

So as you go about your day, look for ways to help others, allow another to help you with directions and always wait on the direction from the Lord. You will accomplish the task before you.

Missing Part of Your Meal?

As a put away the groceries one evening, I made salads for the following day’s lunches. I did not say anything to my husband, David, at the time. The next morning I noticed that he had not taken his salad with him to work. It had been in the front of the refrigerator. This is the place where lunches are frequently placed. He had helped me put up the groceries, so he also knew that all the veggies were in the fridge. Had he just looked, he would have seen the salad and taken it for lunch. Instead, he simply took some pieces of fruit that were in a bowl on the counter.

After I realized he had not taken the salad, I regretted not commenting to him about the fact that the salads were in the refrigerator. I wondered why he hadn’t open the fridge door and seen it. Even if he hadn’t realized I made the salad, he knew there were burgers and other lunch appropriate items in there. Yet all he took was the fruit. Whether by hurrying or inattentiveness, he left for work with less of the lunch then he could have had.

How often can we face the Word of God in the same way? I may have neglected to tell David that the salad had been made. Jesus, on the other hand has made it clear that our every need is met and satisfied in the Word. He is the Word became flesh. (See John 1:14) Jesus also referred to himself as the bread of life.  “Jesus replied, I am the Bread of Life. He who comes to Me will never be hungry, and he who believes in and cleaves to and trusts in and relies on Me will never thirst any more (at any time).” (John 6:35 AMP) Jesus also promises to give living water. “Jesus answered her, If you had only known and had recognized God’s gift and Who this is that is saying to you, Give Me a drink, you would have asked Him [instead] and He would have given you living water.” (John 4:10 AMP)  The invitation is clear. Jesus calls us to come and feast on the true nourishment of the promises and direction of God. These will be found in the Bible if we simply look.

Sometimes I go to Bible looking for verses I’ve read or heard before. I can become so focused on searching for what I already know is available to me that I don’t make the effort to open my eyes to the many other blessings God has also promised. Other times I do not open the Scriptures at all. I just quote verses that I already know from memory. I fail to even open the ‘door’ to the rest of the Word of God. I do not see what he has prepared for me, because I haven’t taken the effort to truly study the Bible.

Another aspect of the salads that I had prepared was that they were unique to the one they were prepared for. David’s salad was heavier on the broccoli (one of his favorites) then mine was. My salad had mushrooms added to the other veggies. David does not care for fresh mushrooms, but I love them. Likewise, the gifts and promises that God has provided each of us are unique to the individual and to the circumstance. He knows the heart of each of his children. And he communicates to each one in ways that are best.

The apple and orange that David took from the fruit bowl were nutritious. They were also sweet to taste and something that he enjoys eating. But as good as they were, they did not complete the meal in the same manner that adding salad would have. What David ate that day was good but incomplete. So also enjoying only part of what God has prepared for us is good yet incomplete. There is so much more He has for us that will make us both strong and satisfied.

So don’t settle for just the familiar or easy to see promises of God. Search deeply through the Scripture until you find the custom designed promises that your heavenly father has written in his love letter to you. He has provided spiritual food that will nourish and sustain you through every need you may have. “O taste and see that the Lord [our God] is good! Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) is the man who trusts and takes refuge in Him.” (Psalm 34:8 AMP)  Take, eat and enjoy!

What Does Your Eye Spy?

A game that is often played by preschoolers is “I Spy With My Little Eye.” The leader starts the game by choosing an item. He or she then says the words, “I spy with my little eye something that is…” A characteristic of the item is inserted into the statement. This can be color, size or anything else that describes the item chosen. Everyone else then looks around the room and guesses what that item might be. The game continues until someone guesses what the leader actually originally picked. That person is the winner and receives the benefit that was determined before the game began.

It is very interesting to watch as each child picks an item for their guess. For example, the statement may be “I spy with my little eye something that is green.” One child who is particularly fond of dinosaurs may guess the green dinosaur in the corner. Another child who loves flowers could pick the leaves on the plant by the window. Still others will find favorite toys or other cherished items that display the color green.

Moses sent twelve men from the wilderness into the promise land to spy out all of the land. (Numbers 13 - 14) All twelve came back and reported what they had seen. All of the reports included things that were huge. They even brought back a branch with only one bunch of grapes that had to be carried on a pole because of its size. They all described a land that was flowing with milk and honey.

When Moses inquired as to what they had spied, ten of the men spoke in detail of giants and strongholds and challenges. They acknowledged the huge benefits of this land. But they could not get over the challenges they would be required to overcome. By focusing on these they saw their own lack and all the things that instilled fear. This led to seeing themselves as grasshoppers by comparison.

Two of the spies, Joshua and Caleb, had a different perspective. They described in detail the land that was flowing with milk and honey. They acknowledged the challenges but were focused on the huge benefits. Despite the giants and the strongholds, “Caleb quieted the people before Moses, and said, Let us go up at once and possess it; we are well able to conquer it.” (13: 30 AMP)  The reason for the confidence of Joshua and Caleb is summed up in this statement.  “And they said to all the company of Israelites, The land through which we passed as scouts is an exceedingly good land.  If the Lord delights in us, then He will bring us into this land and give it to us, a land flowing with milk and honey.  Only do not rebel against the Lord, neither fear the people of the land, for they are bread for us. Their defense and the shadow [of protection] is removed from over them, but the Lord is with us. Fear them not.” (14:7-9 AMP)

David, still a young shepherd boy, displayed the same confidence in the presence of the giant Goliath.  “Then said David to the Philistine, You come to me with a sword, a spear, and a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the ranks of Israel, Whom you have defied.  This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand, and I will smite you and cut off your head. And I will give the corpses of the army of the Philistines this day to the birds of the air and the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel.” (1 Samuel 17:45-46 AMP) Although the entire Israelite army shook was terror at the sound of Goliaths voice, this young boy conquered the giant with a slingshot, a stone and confidence in the power of the most high God.

Throughout the ages people have accomplished great things when they looked to the power and promise of Almighty God instead of the circumstances before them. Our little eyes can see problems that will make us tremble. But the eye of faith in a faithful God will see the victory. Victory follows the heart that sees as God sees. 

Of all the Israelites, only Joshua and Caleb entered that land.  The other spies and everyone who believed their report died without ever seeing the promise.

Spy out each day of your life with eyes that see that the promises of God are larger than the trials ahead. You will work with God and receive the benefits promised by God.