Treating a Low Faith Level

A problem that someone who has diabetes encounters is blood sugar fluctuations.  One morning recently, I woke up with the symptoms of low blood sugar. I felt weak and shaky as I went to get my blood test monitor and checked the level. The number that was displayed on the monitor screen confirmed that my blood sugar was considerably below the normal level. I quickly treated this by eating a fruit strip that provides a fast acting form of sugar. 

Although I ingested the sugar required to counter the low, the symptoms did not immediately disappear. It generally takes about 15 minutes before the body feels relief from the effects of low blood sugar. The effects include shakiness, extreme weakness, and blurred vision. The physical feelings associated with extreme dread can also be a part of this. Together these leave one feeling totally drained. 

I returned to bed to recover from the aftermath of this low and drifted back to sleep. When I awoke 30 minutes later, I felt almost paralyzed. Although I knew that the condition has been treated and that my body had returned to a normal sugar level, I still felt too drained to even attempt to get out of bed.  With great effort I turned over and forced myself to get up.  It was only then that I began to feel normal again. It was as if I had recovered from the low but was stuck in the memory of the sensations associated with it. Until I forced myself to move, I did not break free of them. 

As I lie in bed feeling stuck, the phrase ‘paralyzed by fear’ crossed my mind. Allowing fear to enter over lives can have a similar effect on us and be devastating. It can cause us to feel unable to move forward into the things God has planned for us.  That is why throughout scripture the Lord continuously encourages us to fear not.  Instead we have this promise.  “For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control.” (2 Timothy 1:7 AMP)  

Just as I had to take an appropriate amount of a sugar source to correct this low blood sugar level, so we must build faith and strengthen our spiritual bodies by taking in the Word of God.  “So faith comes by hearing [what is told], and what is heard comes by the preaching [of the message that came from the lips] of Christ (the Messiah Himself).” (Romans 10:17 AMP)  Reading and quoting Scriptures that apply to our situation will build faith that overcomes fear.  Listening to Biblical teaching also provides needed strength. 

The amount of the Word necessary to return our bodies to the balance of faith may be determined by how low the fear has taken you. Because I was asleep when my sugar was dropping, I did not notice the symptoms as quickly as I would have if I have been awake and alert. We, likewise, can slip further from faith if we allow ourselves to become spiritually asleep. We must be careful to remain alert.  Scripture encourages us to, “… be vigilant and cautious at all times; for that enemy of yours, the devil, roams around like a lion roaring [in fierce hunger], seeking someone to seize upon and devour.” (1 Peter 5:8 AMP) 

When I am awake and alert I recognize symptoms of low blood sugar far sooner. I check level, treat it and can usually return to a normal with very little ill effects. When we stay continually in tune with the Spirit of God, we can catch fear at its onset and replace it with faith by quoting Scriptures.  We are told to meditate on the Word. “This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success.” (Joshua 1:8 AMP) We are also told to continually offer praise. “Through Him, therefore, let us constantly and at all times offer up to God a sacrifice of praise, which is the fruit of lips that thankfully acknowledge and confess and glorify His name.” (Hebrews 13:15 AMP)  Following these practices will make it very difficult for fear to get too strong of a hold and throw us too far off balance, having the paralyzing effect that hinders so many. 

Stay alert and full of the Word of God today.  Catch fear as it first attempts to grip you and let faith keep moving you forward.

Expecting a Special Package

Our home is the frequent recipient of package deliveries. Medical supplies are shipped automatically every three months. I frequently order natural foods and other items online. My son also has items regularly delivered to our home.

When a package has been shipped, we usually receive an email that lists the shipping company and a tracking number. By logging in to the shipper’s website and entering this number we can find the status of a package. We can determine where our package is and when to expect delivery. Over the past few years I have even become familiar with the regular delivery times of the most common carriers of our packages.

When the delivery status on the website states “out for delivery” we know them today will be the day the package arrives. The anticipation builds as we listen for the sound of the truck on our cul-de-sac. The dogs will bark and the doorbell ring as the package is left on our front step. Throughout the day I will catch myself glancing out the window or just going about my daily business with an air of expectation and my ear tuned to be ready for the sounds of the delivery.

Do we spend our days with that same expectation of receiving from God? He has promised to bring many things into our lives. His favor, blessings, provision and so much more is promised in God’s word.  King David wrote of his constant expectation of the presence of the Lord.  “Guide me in Your truth and faithfulness and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; for You [You only and altogether] do I wait [expectantly] all the day long.” (Psalm 25:5 AMP)  David knew that only God could save him from the enemies he faced.

How do we wait expectantly?  Are we looking in every direction? Do we have one ear constantly attentive to the sounds of His presence?  Meditating on His word throughout the day will build this expectation.  Praise and thanksgiving will keep us mindful of who God is and all the blessings He has already given to us.  “[Earnestly] remember the former things, [which I did] of old; for I am God, and there is no one else; I am God, and there is none like Me,” (Isaiah 46:9 AMP) Remembering these things with a grateful heart will cause us to remain alert and expectant.

If delivery day ends and the package does not arrive it can be quite disappointing. Last Christmas one of our packages was mistakenly placed on a truck to New Mexico instead of the truck that came to our home. The day of delivery came and went  It took an entire week to receive the item. Since this item was a Christmas gift that was part of a larger package we would be shipping to family, this one item delayed that package.  It seemed a disaster, yet all worked out in the end.

Things may sometimes seem late. But God’s timing is perfect in all things. He always knows what is best. “While we were yet in weakness [powerless to help ourselves], at the fitting time Christ died for (in behalf of) the ungodly.” (Romans 5:6 AMP)  God knew the perfect timing to provide the sacrifice that purchased salvation for mankind.  He knows perfect timing to rescue us from trials or to just drop small blessings to show His love for us. Earlier in the same Psalm as above, David wrote, “Yes, let none who trust and wait hopefully and look for You be put to shame or be disappointed;” (Psalm 25:3a AMP) As we trust that God knows what is best for us and His love is unfailing, we can wait with hearts full of hope and we will not be disappointed. 

Trust Him today. Wait expectantly, looking and listening for His arrival at any second.

Making Room for the New

Attempting to replace the lead in a mechanical pencil, I ran into a problem. A tiny piece that remained was blocking the path of the new piece. This small piece of lead was no longer useful but blocked the way of a new and effective piece.  I could not seem to push this piece in without possibly breaking the longer piece. I had to grasp it and pull it out to clear the opening. Once the small piece had been removed the new, long piece went in easily. Within moments I was using the pencil as intended.

That first piece of lead has served its purpose well. It had been used repeatedly to write a variety of lists, notes and stories.  It had once been long and full and had proved to be reliable for its time.  But now it was rendering my favorite mechanical pencil useless. No matter how many times I pressed the button to extend the lead, I could no longer write anything. The pencil was still perfectly good. It now simply needed a new piece of lead.

Times in our lives come when God wants to begin a new work. He desires to place more in us to make us useful for this new time. In order to enter this new phase of life, we have to be willing to let go of what is left of the previous phase. We cannot spend our time trying to reopen doors that have been closed. But we must let go of the past in order to walk in God’s will. “…forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the [supreme and heavenly] prize to which God in Christ Jesus is calling us upward.” (Philippians 3:13b-14 AMP)  Sometimes the things that we leave behind are good things. The time of their productiveness has simply come to an end.

 Our greatest example in life, Jesus, did not stay in one place re-creating the miracles He had already performed. He could’ve remained at one location; preaching and feeding the multitudes. This may have even seemed wise. Yet, in his three-year ministry, we have only two recorded incidents of this method of sharing the good news of the kingdom. (See Matthew 14 and 15)  Instead, He continually stayed in close contact with his Father through prayer. He only acted as His Father directed.  “So Jesus added, When you have lifted up the Son of Man [on the cross], you will realize (know, understand) that I am He [for Whom you look] and that I do nothing of Myself (of My own accord or on My own authority), but I say [exactly] what My Father has taught Me.” (John 8:28 AMP) 

The apostle Paul, another great example from Scripture, also had a varied ministry. He went on three recorded missionary journeys, staying in towns for as long as God directed him to. He wrote letters to many churches. To some he wrote only once and to others he wrote several letters. He even went on to Jerusalem knowing that trials and imprisonment would meet him there. This trip ended up in Rome, where he spent several years as a prisoner and wrote many of the letters that are in the New Testament. Preacher, traveler, writer; all were important parts of Paul’s lifetime ministry.

 Times and seasons of life will begin, end and begin again. All are important and have a purpose, both in our lives and in the lives of those we touch. We cannot hold onto one season, when God has chosen to start another. “Do not [earnestly] remember the former things; neither consider the things of old.  Behold, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs forth; do you not perceive and know it and will you not give heed to it? I will even make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” (Isaiah 43:18-19 AMP)  Remembering all the good accomplished and lessons learned, we need to let go and take that step forward.  We can look with hopeful expectation of what God has for us next. 

Do not allow yourself to be stuck where you have been. Let go of what you are holding on to and allow God to lead you into new and exciting paths.

A Garden Bed of Life

When we returned from our vacation at camp, our garden had seemingly gone wild. We have had a great deal of rain this summer and growth has been much speedier than normal. Having been gone for over a week, the transformation was significant. As I walked down the first of our garden beds, I passed a multitude of weeds and then noticed that the broccoli had bloomed; well, one head, at least. The other three were nowhere to be seen. Continuing on I found the cabbage. The leaves are quite large but the cabbages themselves are currently only about the size of tennis balls. As I approached the end of the bed I could feel the anticipation of finding full heads of cauliflower. The leaves were huge on all four plants. Having already been disappointed that only one broccoli plant had survived, I was sure that this would be the highlight of this garden bed. Unfortunately as I peeked over the tops of the leaves I found nothing inside but more leaves. Not one of the cauliflower plants had produced anything that could be prepared and eaten at our table. From a distance the leaves had looked wonderful, but there was no substance inside.

As we view our lives, we may find the same conditions as are in this garden bed. Without attention our lives will have some weeds grow up that will require pulling. Even little bits of sin can grow very quickly. Had we not been gone on vacation, daily tending of the garden would’ve kept these weeds to a minimum. Daily attention to attitudes and actions in our lives is essential Confession will pull sin out at the root, keeping our lives clean.  “If we [freely] admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He s faithful and just (true to His own nature and promises) and will forgive our sins [dismiss our lawlessness] and [continuously] cleanse us from all unrighteousness [everything not in conformity to His will in purpose, thought, and action].” (1 John 1:9 AMP)  

Has good been planted in our lives but only a small portion of it has grown? How many projects have we started with God that fall to the side as time passes? Good intentions to spend my days searching for ways to bless others, being consistent in offering thanksgiving to God, looking only for good in those around us and so many other things can be planted in the soil of our heart. Without daily attention and nurturing new character development, like new plants, can wither and die. While we rejoice in the growth that God has brought in some areas of our lives, we must look at what happened to the other works we began. Just as we planted four broccoli plants and only one grew to maturity, so also we may grow in some areas of character far more so than other areas.  We must be diligent to grow in all areas. “Enfolded in love, let us grow up in every way and in all things into Him Who is the Head, [even] Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One).” (Ephesians 4:15b AMP)

The cauliflower leaves were the greatest disappointment of this bed. From a distance they looked so good. We must question if there are areas in our lives that appear to be in line with the Word of God. Are we doing the right things without having the right heart?  Jesus spoke of this.  “These people draw near Me with their mouths and honor Me with their lips, but their hearts hold off and are far away from Me.” (Matthew 15:8 AMP)  We need to live as “He who walks and lives uprightly and blamelessly, who works rightness and justice and speaks and thinks the truth in his heart,” (Psalm 15:2 AMP)  Only this level of commitment will provide nourishment to those around us.

The redeeming find in this garden bed was the cabbage plants. Four small heads are growing. These will require tending to continue until full-grown.  We also have gifts and character traits that are in the process of growing. This process may be slow and the traits currently small, but growth is present. We must diligently tend this daily with God’s Word and prayer. Then we can have the same confidence that the apostle Paul had.  “And I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He Who began a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ [right up to the time of His return], developing [that good work] and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you.” (Philippians 1:6 AMP)  Our character is being developed by God.

Take a walk in the garden bed of your life today and see what you find. Pull out the bad and nurture the good.

(By the way, my other garden beds are loaded with blossoms and new growth of a bumper crop of tomatoes, zucchini and cucumbers. The lettuce and spinach are ready for replanting. All is good.)

Glad to Wear a Seat Belt

Many years ago, while stopped in a construction zone, I was hit from behind by another vehicle. The force with which I was jolted back by the seat belt was so great that my glasses flew off and landed in the trunk portion of my hatchback. Bruising was evident where the seat belt contacted my shoulder. This bruising left a faint outline down the path where the seatbelt crossed my body.

After this incident I became very pro-seat belts. Realizing the force that caused these injuries, I felt very blessed that I had not experienced something far worse than pain and surface bruises. I had struck the steering wheel, but I am sure I would have catapulted over it and through the windshield if not restrained. The possible injuries could have been extremely serious.

Prior to the enactment of a law requiring seat belts I had never used one. I did not see the real value of the restraint. They were uncomfortable and I did not want to wrinkle my clothing. When the law was instated, I complied and began wearing the seat belt as dictated. I still did not truly realize the value of seat belts, but I wanted to do what was right by following the law.

Sometimes we may not understand the precepts in God’s Word. We may not truly understand the reasons or value of forgiveness, total honesty, loving others and many other of the commands found in Scripture. These may seem to merely be uncomfortable restraints on our behavior. It is extremely valuable to learn to be obedient, simply because God chose to put these things in the Bible. If He tells us to do, or not do, something it is always for our benefit. With this in mind, we can show our love and obey the precepts even if God does not choose to share His reasoning with us.

As a child learns to obey the house rules, so should we obey God’s laws. As the child grows, he or she begins to understand the benefit and reasoning behind the rules. The same can be true as we grow in our walk of faith.  Speaking to His disciples, Jesus said, “You are My friends if you keep on doing the things which I command you to do. I do not call you servants (slaves) any longer, for the servant does not know what his master is doing (working out). But I have called you My friends, because I have made known to you everything that I have heard from My Father. [I have revealed to you everything that I have learned from Him.]” (John 15:14-15 AMP)  Obedience to the commands of God was a prerequisite to this friendship. This friendship then brought the sharing of God’s plans to the disciples. They did not wait until they understood everything to follow what Jesus directed them to do. Their initial obedience brought great blessings as they began to understand the plans Jesus revealed.

We will be blessed to do as the disciples did. When we first read a directive of God, we should put it into practice in our lives even if the purpose is not entirely clear. We can simply obey because God said so. As we walk in obedience and continue to study the Word of God, we will begin to understand His benefits. We will begin to see that offering forgiveness and grace, refusing to judge others and looking for ways to bless and not curse are all things God has commanded we do to bring freedom to our lives. Although others are blessed through our actions, the freedom we experience is far greater than anything we give.

Looking back at the collision, I’m so grateful that I began wearing a seat belt simply out of obedience to the law of the land. Although I did not fully understand it, nor did I like it, I still buckled that seat belt when entering the car because it was the right thing to do. Had I refused to be obedient until I understood the need, it would have been too late. I would have come to understand that need only after I had gone through the windshield of my car. In the same way, living a life of obedience to God will prepare us for when a trial comes.

There are promises of blessings for obedience to God’s Word.  “But He said, Blessed (happy and to be envied) rather are those who hear the Word of God and obey and practice it!”  (Luke 11:28 AMP)  The apostle James cautions against listening only and then relays the blessing of doing what God’s Word says.  “But he who looks carefully into the faultless law, the [law] of liberty, and is faithful to it and perseveres in looking into it, being not a heedless listener who forgets but an active doer [who obeys], he shall be blessed in his doing (his life of obedience).”  (James 1:25AMP)  Creating a habit of obedience invites these blessings.

So as you hear or read God’s Word, be quick to do and obey all that He says. Your habit of obedience will prepare you and keep you from future harm and you will find yourself becoming very pro-God’s restraint.

Why Wait to Try Something Great?

My family has finally visited a restaurant that we have wanted to try since it first opened many months ago. We have heard very good reviews and have considered eating there on several occasions. The parking lot seems to be full every time we pass by. We have even called ahead to check on the wait time for a table and stopped in only to find that the wait would be nearly an hour long. In both cases we did not have the time to stay and try out the restaurant. We finally chose a time to go out for an early dinner. We had no immediate commitments and we were determined to enjoy a meal at this establishment.

Do we often approach spending time with God in the same manner? We may want to begin regularly meeting with Him. We may have heard great things from others who seek God daily and realize that many Christians regularly dine on His word. But are we willing to take the time out of our busy schedules to come to His table? Opportunities may continue to slip away from us until we have that same determination that today we will not be distracted from our goal.

God’s table is open and we have received an invitation to come and dine. “… everyone who is thirsty! Come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! Yes, come, buy [priceless, spiritual] wine and milk without money and without price [simply for the self-surrender that accepts the blessing].” (Isaiah 55:1 AMP)  The cost of this meal is self surrender which includes a surrender of our time and our own will. We must be prepared to let go of other things to open up time to meet with God.

Our experience as first-time visitors to this restaurant exceeded our expectations.  Our waiter provided wonderful service; explaining the menu and suggesting some of his favorite selections. The food all tasted amazing! My husband, son and I all ordered very different dishes. We not only thoroughly enjoyed our own meals; we tasted and enjoyed bites from each other’s plates. Our server checked back with us several times to ensure that everything was just right. His enthusiasm was genuine. Great food, great service and reasonable prices make this an establishment we will definitely return to.

When we come to spend time with God we will find that what He offers will far surpass our expectations. The Psalmist wrote, “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) God is so very good and we are blessed as we meet with Him each day. His word provides nourishment for every area of our lives. He will give us all that we need and more with every meal.

The key is to ensure that we set aside the time to spend with God. We must make a commitment to truly seek Him, even when there is a cost of time, and to sacrifice other things that we could choose to do instead.  “Then you will seek Me, inquire for, and require Me [as a vital necessity] and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:13 AMP)  Requiring this time with God as a vital necessity will provide us with meal after meal of delicious, nourishing spiritual food. We will leave our time with Him satisfied and ready to face whatever else our day may bring.

After we left the restaurant we ran a few errands. Although taking the time to enjoy this meal required a bit more than a quick meal at home or at some other restaurants, we still had time to accomplish our other tasks. Likewise God will give us time for other things in our lives. Scripture promises, “But seek (aim at and strive after) first of all His kingdom and His righteousness (His way of doing and being right), and then all these things taken together will be given you besides.” (Matthew 6:33 AMP)  The Lord will bless us beyond anything that we ask for. He will provide all of our needs and more when we seek His face and His kingdom.

So do not put off visiting the table of the Lord. You will find that the reports of friends who visit regularly are not exaggerated. Your experience will be great and leave you wanting a return visit.

Splinters

Over the past few months, I have found small pieces of wood sticking out of my left palm and a right finger. Both times I pulled the splinter out and believed that was the end of it. Unfortunately the very tip had remained beneath the surface of the skin. With the passing of time, both sites became infected. Interestingly, one can pull a ½ inch piece splintered wood out of the hand, but the tiny speck remaining can cause so much trouble. When I pulled the larger portion of wood from my hand, I did not see that anything was left. That tiny, unseen speck of wood was the source of pain and other potential problems.

Sin is much like that piece of splintered wood. I thought about the Scripture that speaks about judging others. “Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye but do not notice or consider the beam [of timber] that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, Brother, allow me to take out the speck that is in your eye, when you yourself do not see the beam that is in your own eye? You actor (pretender, hypocrite)! First take the beam out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take out the speck that is in your brother's eye.” (Luke 6:41-42 AMP)  These verses refer to having a serious area of one’s life does not line up with the word of God. Oblivious to our own faults, we can become critical of others who are seeking God to overcome sin, but have come a little short of total victory in their lives.

Taking the beam out of our eyes is recognizing that we have sin that needs to be removed.  This is like my pulling that ½  inch piece of the splinter out of my hand. At these times, we must be careful to get all of the sin and not leave a small portion behind. Obeying 90% is a good start, but we must continue seeking God’s help until the last traces of disobedience are released and God’s love can flow through us. This is especially true of attitudes that we want to hold on to just a tiny bit such as unforgiveness, envy, and anger.  We need to get all sin out so we can help others do the same.

A speck of a wooden splinter remaining beneath the skin will lead to infection over time. This starts with an irritation and a bit of redness. If not attended quickly, the pain and infection will both increase, causing pressure at the skin’s surface. The only cure for this is to open the skin, remove the splinter and drain the infection.  It must be totally cleaned out.  Although this process is momentarily painful, it is necessary to end further suffering.

We can rejoice in progress we have made in overcoming sinful attitudes. God is patient with us. Still we must keep moving forward toward total victory over sin in our lives. “A little leaven (a slight inclination to error, or a few false teachers) leavens the whole lump [it perverts the whole conception of faith or misleads the whole church].” (Galatians 5:9 AMP)  The little speck of sin left behind can hide beneath the surface of our lives. Unseen, this small sin can cause an infection of our entire soul.  It must be cleaned out entirely.

Unattended infection can lead to serious health problems including blood poisoning. Likewise the infection of unconfessed sin can cause serious soul sickness.  “A calm and undisturbed mind and heart are the life and health of the body, but envy, jealousy, and wrath are like rottenness of the bones.” (Proverbs 14:30 AMP)  Hidden sin can poison our entire life replacing love, joy and peace with bitterness and destroy our spiritual and even physical health.

The good news is that God is ready and waiting to take the sin out of our lives. Just as my finger or my palm could not expel that speck of the splinter, we cannot rid our lives of sin by our own power. God is waiting with a sharp scalpel of His word to open and clean out the wound.  “For the Word that God speaks is alive and full of power [making it active, operative, energizing, and effective]; it is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating to the dividing line of the breath of life (soul) and [the immortal] spirit, and of joints and marrow [of the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and sifting and analyzing and judging the very thoughts and purposes of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12 AMP)  He will lovingly clean all wounds in our lives.  “So that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the Word,” (Ephesians 5:26 AMP)  

The second time I extracted a piece of splintered wood from my hand, I was more watchful.  I knew something could be left behind.  At the first sign of redness I acted to remove the hidden speck of wood and completely cleaned the area so the infection would not spread.  This alertness reduced the problem significantly.  We can be equally aware of the possibility of remaining traces of sin and move quickly to remove them from our lives.

Take a moment to consider your life.  If you find any traces of disobedience to God’s word, allow the healing hand of the Father to take the splinter of sin out and make your life clean and healthy.

Super Heroes

Superman, Spiderman, Wonder Woman and many other comic book characters are considered super heroes. Super heroes are bigger than life characters that have powers beyond those of the ordinary person. They use these powers to make the world a better place and rescue people from evil.

Scripture speaks of God’s power in the world. “and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places,” (Ephesians 1:19-20 ESV)  Man can develop power for great destruction and death.  Only God has the power to defeat death with resurrection life. This great power has been given to and is in us.  “ If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.” (Romans 8:11 ESV)

Christians are all empowered by God with gifts of the Holy Spirit.  “Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” (1Corinthians 12:4-7 ESV) This passage goes on to describe different gifts.  God has empowered each believer with unique gifts and purposes. Not all will receive and same gift or call from the Holy Spirit. We need to work together as the body of Christ.

Each super hero has a different super power. Each superhero has a different population that he or she serves. Each superhero has his or her special purpose. It would be very strange for Spiderman to believe that because he doesn’t have superhuman strength or x-ray vision that he must not be important. Superman, in turn, cannot discount that power and x-ray vision because he cannot spin webs or does not have a heightened “Spidey” sense like that of Spiderman. We would consider this foolish for the comic book heroes. They are all, by nature,   superhuman.

But often this is true among members of the body of Christ.  Comparing ourselves with our brothers and sisters, we can feel that we have more or less purpose and value than another, merely because of the gifts and talents that God has placed in us are not the same. We must remind ourselves, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10 ESV)  All supernatural gifts of God are needed to perform God’s work of love in this earth.  The quietest action may actually be the most powerful for that moment.

Super heroes are ordinary, everyday people. When circumstances require extraordinary powers they leap into action. They slip into a disguise so that no one will know who they are. They do not want to be associated merely with special power what they have. We are to go about our daily lives following the leading of the Holy Spirit.  When opportunities arise that require super power we will draw on the power God has provided us. We are here to serve and protect hurting people around us. Much of what God calls us to do can be done in secret.  When our actions draw attention we are to ensure that our Heavenly Father receives the glory and not us.

Live today following the Holy Spirit.  As circumstances arise, access the power God has provided to bring life those you encounter.  Whatever you have to give God will use to accomplish His purpose.

RAKs

Free time at camp has so many great activities to choose from.  There is horseback riding, swimming, nerf wars, friendship bracelets, sign language, ventriloquism and many other activities to choose from.  The full list has 30+ items that are available.  The campers from each cabin discuss and select five things to do together as a group.  They check off the boxes of their top choices for the following day.

Among this long list of options is an RAK.  Helping one of the camp directors set up the recreation schedules for the various cabins, I asked for the meaning of this acronym.  RAK stands for ‘Random Acts of Kindness’ that can be performed anywhere in the camp.  With all the fun options to choose from, these campers can choose to set apart a time to bless others. Isn’t that great?

Generally a random act happens at the spur of the moment when an opportunity arises.  By nature, setting something up, makes the event less random and more planned.  But there is nothing wrong with being proactive in looking for the random opportunities to do nice things that are present every day. 

Scripture tells us, “How God anointed and consecrated Jesus of Nazareth with the [Holy] Spirit and with strength and ability and power; how 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 10:38 AMP)  This probably did not happen simply because He stumbled across lots of people who obviously needed a good deed.  People followed Jesus because He had a reputation for helping the hurting.  This came about because Jesus prepared for His day by spending time with His Father in prayer.  There are several places in Scripture where we see that Jesus went off to pray.  This was His response when He was challenged about how and why He did theses great deeds.  “So Jesus answered them by saying, I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, the Son is able to do nothing of Himself (of His own accord); but He is able to do only what He sees the Father doing, for whatever the Father does is what the Son does in the same way [in His turn].” (John 5:19 AMP) 

The term Christian means “little Christ” or “Christ follower”.  We, who call ourselves Christian, should follow this example of Jesus.  We should prepare for our day by asking our Father God for opportunities to show His love and kindness to others.  It’s amazing what He will show us if we simply ask Him.  “…You do not have, because you do not ask. [Or] you do ask [God for them] and yet fail to receive, because you ask with wrong purpose and evil, selfish motives...” (James 4:2-3 AMP)  We can ask God for opportunities to see needs and bless others every day.  Once you start, you’ll wonder how you ever missed all the opportunities that are there. 

The apostle Paul instructed believers “and set your minds and keep them set on what is above (the higher things) not on the things of this earth” (Colossians 3:2 AMP).  Just as these campers set a time to do random acts of kindness, we can set our minds to do the same.  Our daily prayer can be “Lord, show me someone to bless today.”  It can be as simple as a kind word or a 25cent shopping cart.  It may be something far more involved and costly.  Whatever God sends our way, He will provide the resources for us to respond with His love.  We must simply give over a small piece of our personal time and comfort to be His channel of blessing.

Several of these RAKs came my way.  As the camp cook, I received help both in preparing the meals and in cleaning up.  This, in turn, enabled me to get involved.  With all this extra help I was able to do more cleaning than I could have possibly done on my own.  Together we were able to leave the camp kitchen cleaner than we found it.  As the children blessed me, we were able to bless the camp staff that would return to the kitchen.

Once this becomes a part of our lives, we will not trade the blessings God sends our way.  I heard several campers tell their friends that they had helped with a part of the meals.  One could almost see the glow on their faces as they realized that their actions helped make the meal better for their friends.  I am confident that many of them will cherish the memory of their RAK far longer that all the fun and games they also participated in.  God wants us to have a good time too.  He created a beautiful earth full of goodness for us.  But just as these children chose one of their fifteen activity slots to give to others, we can give as well.

So today, as you approach a world full of hurting, needy people, set your heart to ask the Lord to open your eyes to the needs in your path.  Enjoy all the good that the Father has provided for you, but set your heart to do your own random acts of kindness.  You will be happy that you checked the RAK box as part of your day’s plan.

Brownie Pan Goodness

Brownie Pan Goodness

Recently, I was preparing a quadruple batch of brownies at a children’s camp.  As I was spooning the last of the batter from the mixing bowl into the pans, I felt a bit lazy.  I thought of the powerful sprayer in the dish room.  I could leave the last this batter in the bowl and it would come off in seconds with a stream of its spray.  As quickly as that thought had occurred to me, it was replaced by the realization that I did not want to lose all that ooey, gooey goodness.  This was a triple chocolate recipe. I proceeded to scrape all I could from the bowl into the pan.

Sometimes we can approach life in this same way.  It’s easy to think more about doing just the minimum to get by.  It’s almost as if we just want to do what we must to feel good about ourselves.  We may not want to put in the effort to give all that we really can to a project at hand.   Then we rely on the grace and forgiveness of Jesus Christ to wash away any mess our actions, or lack of actions, have left behind. 

It is absolutely true that Jesus has already paid the price for any sin, past, present or future, we could ever commit.  King David understood this when he wrote, “Cleanse me with hyssop and I will be clean; wash me and I will be whiter than snow.” (Psalm 51:7 NIV)  David had sinned and knew that forgiveness came only from the Lord.  He also knew that God’s forgiveness was complete.  ‘Whiter than snow’ is far cleaner than any pan rinsed with the dish room sprayer.  Only the death of Jesus on the cross brings total forgiveness.

Sometimes it is not a temptation to sin that trips us up.  We can become tired while doing right.  We may feel we have done enough and someone else should step in.  The apostle Paul, who had great opportunity to become tired, said, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9 NIV)  He endured hardships and long hours, and he was often not appreciated. In God’s strength, we also need to keep on keeping on.

This leads to the question, “What is enough?”    Obedience that aims at the minimum requirements is not truly an obedience of love.  Our obedience should always aim to please God with our entire life.  This requires faith.  “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him,” (Hebrews 11:6 NIV)  Faith and obedience practiced together bring God’s greatest rewards.  His goodness and favor will follow the believer that displays these traits in their lives.  We will grow in His character and be blessed.

So the question we ask should not be, “What is the least I can get by with and still please God?”  He loves us just the way we are, with both our good qualities and our flaws.  The true question to ask is, “What can I do for You today Lord, just because I want to be a blessing to You?”  That is when God’s heart will be blessed and He will also pour out more revelation of Himself, which is His richest blessing.

As you go about the regular activities of your life, ask the Lord how you can bless Him in your actions.  You will find yourself tasting all the ooey, gooey goodness of His Character and His favor.

Hidden Too Well

Have you ever had something important that you did not want to lose, so you put it away in a very special spot?  Then, when the time arrives to retrieve the item, you cannot remember where you hid it.  You have done such a good job of hiding the item in a place where others would not find it, that now you cannot find it either.  I have done this many times.  It is especially irritating when this happens with a perfect birthday present that was purchased months in advance.  I can remember several episodes of frantic searches occurring on the day prior to a special occasion that I do not want ruined by a missing gift.

Other times I have hidden items then forgotten that I even had them.  Finding these can bring mixed reactions.  If I have purchased a duplicate item to fill a need, I may become frustrated at the unnecessary inconvenience and expense caused by my memory relapse.  Other times surprise finds can be like receiving a gift.  I recently came upon a container of dates which I use for baking.  My husband and I had been doing a short run on a limited eating plan that did not include these sweet treasures.  To limit temptation, I had hidden them in a cabinet behind some serving bowls.  We finished the restricted eating plan, but I had completely forgotten about the dates in the cabinet.  Several weeks later I found them and was pleased to enjoy one andadd them back into my baking supplies.

Does this also occur with the word of God?  In discussing how a young man can stay pure King David states, “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” (Psalm 119:11 NLT)  Hiding the word in your heart is a very good thing. But can we forget that word once we have hidden it? I believe that we can. If we cease to continue studying, we may forget what was once important to us.

Scriptures can jump off the page and have a great meaning as we read them. This new understanding, given by the Holy Spirit, may be important and at the forefront of our thoughts for many days. Over weeks, months and years, this great word from God may get lost. We can forget His truth until one day we reread that Scripture (which may even be highlighted) and once again we are reminded of the truth shown to us so long ago.

How can we avoid this forgetfulness from occurring? David’s instructions to hide the word are a part of an entire passage that was meant to be read all together. (See Psalm 119:9-16)  Other principals taught in these verses will help us avoid forgetting that which we have hidden. In verses 12 through 16, David goes on to give  instructions that include praising God, listening to His teaching, reciting the word, rejoicing, studying, reflecting, delighting in, and finally, not forgetting God’s word. Diligence in these will prevent forgetfulness.

We cannot simply read a passage one time, think about it for a day or two and file it away. The word of God must not only be hidden in our hearts, but it must be living in our hearts. “The word of God is alive and powerful…” (Hebrews 4:12a NLT)  When we hide His word in our hearts, we must continue in that word for it to be alive.  A verse that I memorized 30 years ago is lost to me, unless I have continued to thank God for His promise, continued to consider it and allowed it to become a part of me.

We can be joyful when we relearn a truth that has long been hidden inside.  It is so much better to keep revisiting the truths we have learned and keep them from being buried so deep that we forget their value. “Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts.” (Colossians 3:16 NLT)  We are wise to not only keep the word alive in us, but also share it with others.  Then it will always remain fresh.

As you go about your day, consider some of what God has taught you that you may not have thought about for a long time.  Allow Him to dig it out of its hiding place and become real to you again.  Then share it with a friend.

Independence Day/Dependence Day

The fourth of July is a day of celebration in the United States. Picnics, parades and fireworks are all a part of the fanfare and commemoration of Independence Day. Two hundred thirty eight years after those brave men first put their signatures on the Declaration of Independence, we are still celebrating. Independence Day; it is not just to remember the date and the signing of that piece of paper, but to consider the sacrifice of those who believed a free nation was worth fighting for.

Colonial Christians who favored independence from England had a slogan that became a battle cry. “No King but King Jesus!” Having chosen to come across the ocean for the opportunity to worship God freely, these men and women wanted to continue free from the rule of England’s king. The right for each individual to choose God and how they worshiped Him was at the core of our founding fathers fight. Although there were political and social reasons to become a nation of our own, there can be no question that God was at the center of the beginnings of what we now celebrate.

Each of us has a similar fight for independence in our spiritual lives. There are actually several areas that we will need to battle to win our freedom. We will also have to stand firm to hold onto that freedom. But in all cases we will have the strength and power of God Himself to win the battles and hold onto victory.

The first battle we will face is the battle against sin and death. This battle is actually won by total surrender. Sin and death were conquered on the cross by Jesus Christ. He has already done all the work. Salvation comes by trusting in Him alone. “ if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9-10 ESV) The battle that we face is letting go of our good works and acknowledging that only the finished work of Jesus Christ can lead us to God the Father and to heaven.  We make our declaration of dependence on this finished work.

Once we’ve been born again we will daily battle temptation and sin. There will always be opportunities to choose to give into temptation, but the born-again spirit desires to choose right. Again this battle is one not won by digging in your heels in determining to avoid all of the ‘don’ts’ of a code of behavior.  The apostle John wrote “ For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.”  (John 1:17 ESV)  The apostle Paul also speaks of this. “God who has made us sufficient to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit. For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.”  (2 Corinthians 3:6 ESV) The Holy Spirit brings abundant grace to believers. Grace is not only receiving forgiveness when we sin, but grace instills a desire within our hearts to choose God’s way. It’s all dependent on simply receiving the love He has already shown us.

Another battle that can be difficult for the believer is the battle between pleasing men and pleasing God. We all have a desire to be liked by those we come in contact with. This is not necessarily bad. But when the choice must be made to please men or to follow God, we must always choose God. The apostles faced this choice when they stood before a council of rulers and were told to no longer preach the gospel.  ^“But Peter and the apostles answered, “We must obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29 ESV) The apostle Paul spoke of choosing God over man. “For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.” (Galatians 1:10 ESV) It is imperative to choose the heart of God. Nowhere in Scripture is a recorded that someone was commended for having a heart after the crowd. David was made king because he had a heart after God.  Our hearts must also yearn for God.

In all of these instances the power to win the battle comes from God Himself. We never need to fight in our own strength, but rather admit our total dependence on what the Lord has already provided. When we receive and walk in His provision we walk in victory.

So this Independence Day as you meet with friends, have a cook out, watch the fireworks or light some sparklers, think about the men and women who fought and sacrificed so much that our nation could have this independence. Then take a moment to think about the independence from the powers of darkness that was won for us by Jesus Christ on the cross. Thank God for what you have and rely on Him to continue walking in that freedom. We can all make our declaration of dependence, “No King but King Jesus!”

Swirls of Color

I sat on the shore of Lake Michigan watching the birds fly over the water. There was a beautiful sky full of fluffy white clouds with magnificent shades of blue peeking through. As I looked out over the water I saw many colors coming together in beautiful swirly patterns. In the distance, near the horizon, was a deep, midnight blue. Next to that was a rich aquamarine that turned into several shades of green. Then there was another, lighter blue and even a small patch that appeared to be brownish. This array of colors intrigued me. Coloring a picture as a young child, I always grabbed the blue crayon for water. I remember my first 64-color box of crayons. In it was a crayon named Sea Green. I remember thinking the ocean must look very different from this lake, because water was blue. Yet here were all these colors together.

After watching the flight of birds for a short time, I looked back over the water and found that the patterns had changed. The colors were still there, but now the line of midnight blue was very thin and the green had increased in size. A short time later the patterns have changed once again. Then the sky grew a bit darker as one of the many clouds covered the sun. This entire array of colors took on a grayish hue and lost the uniqueness of each individual color.  I realized that the color scheme was dependent upon the reflection of the sun. As the sun altered its position, the appearance of the colors was altered with it. When the sun was blocked, the colors became muted.

In a sense, the life of a believer is very much like the view of the lake. God has placed gifts and abilities in each of His children. These gifts and abilities are displayed as different shades, or colors, of one’s personality. Each individual color or gift is beautiful in itself. In conjunction with other gifts, a beautiful swirl of God’s handiwork is exhibited through our lives. As God’s love is allowed to be reflected in us, these gifts and abilities become vibrant.  They will display His character and love to all who see it. Jesus instructed, “…just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:34b-35 ESV)  By loving our brothers and sisters with our gifts, we will reflect the love of Jesus Christ to the world. 

We can lose our vibrant appearance if we allow the love of Jesus, the true Son, to be hidden by circumstances, disobedience or any other hindrance. When that cloud blocked the sun causing the water to turn grayish, the scene lost the appeal it had only moments before. When we fail to reflect the Son of God in all we do, we also lose the attractiveness that is apparent only when the love of Jesus permeates our lives. Staying connected to the light and love of Jesus Christ is essential. 

In addition to the reflection of the sun, the depth of the water also affects the color seen on the surface. As the word of God becomes deeply rooted in our lives, we will display the wisdom and stability that comes with a depth of spiritual character.  When we spend time with the Lord and study the Scriptures, His character is developed in us. “And all of us, as with unveiled face, [because we] continued to behold [in the Word of God] as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are constantly being transfigured into His very own image in ever increasing splendor and from one degree of glory to another; [for this comes] from the Lord [Who is] the Spirit.” (2 Corinthians 3:18 AMP)  As we grow, little by little, we will reflect more and more of God. As we remain constant in both God’s word and love, the color of our lives deepens. The Holy Spirit reveals truth to us.  “Yet to us God has unveiled and revealed them by and through His Spirit, for the [Holy] Spirit searches diligently, exploring and examining everything, even sounding the profound and bottomless things of God [the divine counsels and things hidden and beyond man's scrutiny].” (1 Corinthians 2:10 AMP) The Holy Spirit will take us deep and the color of our life will be rich.

The prophet Isaiah gives this command. “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)  As we grow deep in the love of God and allow His light to reflect in our lives, we can display the glory of God. God’s glory is beautiful beyond measure and it is our privilege to be a part of the display.

So as you go about your day, allow the Son of God to shine upon your life. The beautiful colors of all that He has placed in you will be seen by whoever you meet. You are beautiful.