Where is the Magnifying Glass Pointed?

Sherlock Holmes, the great detective of the 19th century was known for the unique cap on his head and the magnifying glass in his hand. It was with this magnifying glass that he searched for and discovered the clues that always led him to solve the mysterious crime.
Magnifying glasses enhance and enlarge the image of whatever is viewed through its lens. When print is too small to read, a magnifying glass can bring it to a legible size. A tiny detail in a picture that would have gone unnoticed can jump out. A lost item that blends in with its surroundings can suddenly be found when the magnifying glass is pointed in the right direction.
Each of our minds has a magnifying glass. Where that magnifying glass is pointed is up to us. And where that magnifying glass is pointed will make all the difference in how we perceive both our God and the world around us. We can choose to magnify the trials of life or the faithfulness of our God.
The enemy will always attempt to have as place our focus and magnify the trials and problems that we encounter in life. Difficult situations will come into our lives. Often problems may have no solution in sight. If we focus on these problems things can become bleak. Everything that looks impossible has been magnified by our perceptions.
Despite beatings and other serious hardships, the apostle Paul wrote, “Therefore we do not become discouraged (utterly spiritless, exhausted, and wearied out through fear). Though our outer man is [progressively] decaying and wasting away, yet our inner self is being [progressively] renewed day after day. For our light, momentary affliction (this slight distress of the passing hour) is ever more and more abundantly preparing and producing and achieving for us an everlasting weight of glory [beyond all measure, excessively surpassing all comparisons and all calculations, a vast and transcendent glory and blessedness never to cease!], Since we consider and look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen; for the things that are visible are temporal (brief and fleeting), but the things that are invisible are deathless and everlasting.” (2 Corinthians 4:16-18 AMP)

In any situation the Word of God tells us to focus on the Lord with prayer and thankfulness. “Be happy [in your faith] and rejoice and be glad-hearted continually (always); Be unceasing in prayer [praying perseveringly]; Thank [God] in everything [no matter what the circumstances may be, be thankful and give thanks], for this is the will of God for you [who are] in Christ Jesus [the Revealer and Mediator of that will].” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 AMP)

We are to remember God’s faithfulness. “Bless (affectionately, gratefully praise) the Lord, O my soul; and all that is [deepest] within me, bless His holy name! Bless (affectionately, gratefully praise) the Lord, O my soul, and forget not [one of] all His benefits— Who forgives [every one of] all your iniquities, Who heals [each one of] all your diseases, Who redeems your life from the pit and corruption, Who beautifies, dignifies, and crowns you with loving-kindness and tender mercy; Who satisfies your mouth [your necessity and desire at your personal age and situation] with good so that your youth, renewed, is like the eagle's [strong, overcoming, soaring]! (Psalm 103:1-5 AMP) This focus is not only in our thoughts but vocalized into praise. We remember and praise.

We must magnify the love of God. “There is no fear in love [dread does not exist], but full-grown (complete, perfect) love turns fear out of doors and expels every trace of terror! For fear brings with it the thought of punishment, and [so] he who is afraid has not reached the full maturity of love [is not yet grown into love's complete perfection].” (1 John 4:18 AMP) When our focus is on His love, fear leaves.
So we can focus on our situations and problems. This will breed fear and doubt. Or we can actively magnify God though prayer, thankfulness and praise. This will bring joy and faith in the not yet seen good plan and purpose of God.

What do you choose to magnify? Like the psalmist I plead with you, “O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together. “(Psalm 34:3 AMP)

May I Enter?

We were recently staying with my husband's brother and his family. Their older son, Boston, gave up his bedroom for us to use during our stay. Taking the essentials to another room, he offered us privacy and free access to this room at any time.
One afternoon he came, knocked on the door, and apologized for interrupting us. He asked our permission to enter and retrieve something from one of his dressers. My immediate response was that this was his room and he could come in anytime. Although we were temporarily occupying the room as a place to keep our belongings and sleep, it had not become ours. This was still Boston’s room.
Boston acknowledged that this was his bedroom, but he chose to honor us by asking permission to enter. He had willingly agreed to temporarily give up his rights to this location of privacy and chose to prefer us in this situation. The room was his as was the bed we were sleeping in. Yet he chose to set down his personal right to enter and access his belongings at will.
Just as we were invited by our relatives to be guests into their home, Christians are called to welcome others into their midst. “Welcome and receive [to your hearts] one another, then, even as Christ has welcomed and received you, for the glory of God.” (Romans 15:7 AMP) And as followers of Jesus Christ, we are commanded to prefer one another. “Love one another with brotherly affection [as members of one family], giving precedence and showing honor to one another.” (Romans 12:10 AMP) This kind act and accommodating attitude on Boston's part provided such a picture of this.
Although we may have Earthly possessions, we can lay them down for others. Jesus demonstrated that true love lays aside its own rights and desires for others. “This is My commandment: that you love one another [just] as I have loved you. No one has greater love [no one has shown stronger affection] than to lay down (give up) his own life for his friends. You are My friends if you keep on doing the things which I command you to do.” (John 15:12-14 AMP) Obedience to this mandate brings the great reward of joy. Just prior to His command to love as He loves, Jesus stated, “If you keep My commandments [if you continue to obey My instructions], you will abide in My love and live on in it, just as I have obeyed My Father's commandments and live on in His love. I have told you these things, that My joy and delight may be in you, and that your joy and gladness may be of full measure and complete and overflowing.” (John 15:10-11 AMP)

The apostle Paul even tells us to consider others as more important than ourselves. “Do nothing from factional motives [through contentiousness, strife, selfishness, or for unworthy ends] or prompted by conceit and empty arrogance. Instead, in the true spirit of humility (lowliness of mind) let each regard the others as better than and superior to himself [thinking more highly of one another than you do of yourselves]. Let each of you esteem and look upon and be concerned for not [merely] his own interests, but also each for the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:3-4 AMP) Paul goes on to cite Jesus as our example in this. “Let this same attitude and purpose and [humble] mind be in you which was in Christ Jesus: [Let Him be your example in humility:]” (Philippians 2:5 AMP) Looking to the benefit of others is loving as Jesus does. 

Our Heavenly Father has given so much to His children. “May blessing (praise, laudation, and eulogy) be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah) Who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual (given by the Holy Spirit) blessing in the heavenly realm!” (Ephesians 1:3 AMP) As He invites people into His family, we may occasionally find ourselves in positions to lay aside immediate access to some of these spiritual blessings in order to honor others. Displaying the attitude of selflessness does not diminish us. It brings inner joy and allows us to shine with the love of Jesus. 

Are you holding onto your room, your stuff? Do you find it difficult to share with others? Experience the true joy of having the attitude of Jesus by preferring others. You will be blessed. 

Hidden Injuries

In the recent fall that I took, my left tibia was severely fractured. Because the break occurred at the joint and traveled down the leg, it was the most serious injury of the fall. X-rays, doctor’s consultations and a hospitalization were all based on the severity of this break.
In addition to this broken leg, there were other injuries. I hit my head, scraped my arm and bruised or cracked a rib. After being checked out, all of these injuries took a secondary position to that of the leg. Major decisions concerning my care revolved around the tibia break.
As I am now recovering, the same is quite true. Therapy, nursing care and doctor's visits revolve primarily around the leg break. Yet the other injuries cannot go unchecked. The bump on the head has disappeared and no cognitive functions were affected. The scrapes to the wrist and arm were cleaned and maintained to prevent infection. The tenderness to the arm and elbow is fading along as minor scarring replaces the broken skin. Only the rib continues to present any problem. This bruised or cracked rib has been watched and frequently requires support to maintain deep breathing and prevent pneumonia which can occur after surgery. Although the pain is not as severe as the leg, it remains and requires attention.
The bruised/cracked rib will heal on its own. The manner in which the rib cage has been created will immobilize the rib while it mends. Yet the pain that it causes in the interim cannot be ignored. It is important to physically support the ribs so that I can cough and keep the lungs clear so that pneumonia does not develop and cause more severe problems. Unattended, this lesser problem could actually lead to serious conditions.
We are total human beings, not just a sum of parts. This is true body, soul and spirit. We can sometimes look at our spiritual and emotional lives and see a series of issues or areas in need of growth and development. God may spotlight the condition of the heart that currently requires the utmost attention. While healing is occurring and changes are being made to our character in this area, we cannot ignore all of the other areas of our lives.
God knows our heart even better than we do. He created us and knows every thought, hurt and need. (See Psalm 139) Life’s events and activities have often caused some serious wounds to our emotions and our very identity. When we are wounded, the Lord is ready to heal. “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds [curing their pains and their sorrows].” (Psalm 147:3 AMP) When sin causes problems in our lives, God’s response is the same. “The Lord is close to those who are of a broken heart and saves such as are crushed with sorrow for sin and are humbly and thoroughly penitent.” (Psalm 34:18 AMP)
Jesus Christ came to not only provide a way to heaven, but to bring wholeness to those who would open our hearts to Him. The Spirit of the Lord [is] upon Me, because He has anointed Me [the Anointed One, the Messiah] to preach the good news (the Gospel) to the poor; He has sent Me to announce release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to send forth as delivered those who are oppressed [who are downtrodden, bruised, crushed, and broken down by calamity], To proclaim the accepted and acceptable year of the Lord [the day when salvation and the free favors of God profusely abound].” (Luke 4:18-19 AMP) He desires to bring wholeness to every area of our lives.
God brings wholeness to our souls by teaching us who we were created to be. This is of utmost importance and can be a long process. During this process, other areas of hurt or sin may also emerge. They must be addressed simultaneously. Although a negative attitude may not seem critical, it must be dealt with before it can grow and destroy. “Exercise foresight and be on the watch to look [after one another], to see that no one falls back from and fails to secure God's grace (His unmerited favor and spiritual blessing), in order that no root of resentment (rancor, bitterness, or hatred) shoots forth and causes trouble and bitter torment, and the many become contaminated and defiled by it.” (Hebrews 12:15 AMP)

God cares about healing us completely. Allow Him to work on all areas, large and small. He will heal. “For I will restore health to you, and I will heal your wounds, says the Lord.” (Jeremiah 30:17a AMP) Believe and obey Him and you will hear, “And He said to him, Get up and go on your way. Your faith (your trust and confidence that spring from your belief in God) has restored you to health.” (Luke 17:19 AMP)

Waiting For Your Call (2/6/15)

The thumb and pinky finger extended of a hand held near the ear has become come a gesture meaning “Call me.”  I have seen this signal many times, both directed to me and to others.

Part of my duties at work is to cover the receptionist’s lunch break. The other day I was informed by the lead receptionist that one of the managers was awaiting an important telephone call. I was to put the caller on hold and contact her via the radio to make sure she received the call.

Have you ever spent time waiting for a call from a good friend?  You may have avoided some other activity to be sure to receive the call. There is an excitement in the initial anticipation. As time passes, a bit of longing creeps in. Impatience and finally frustration may follow when a call is delayed.

We are often waiting for calls. Some are for needed information and others just to talk to someone we care about. Until the call comes, we wait.

Scripture tells us that the Lord is waiting for His people to call out to Him. “And therefore the Lord [earnestly] waits [expecting, looking, and longing] to be gracious to you; and therefore He lifts Himself up, that He may have mercy on you and show loving-kindness to you.”  (Isaiah 30:18a AMP) God is waiting for us with excitement, anticipation and longing. It is His desire that we do not delay, yet His patience is inexhaustible. His heart is full of enduring love. Like the father of the prodigal son, (See Luke 15:11-32) He waits and watches planning the first words to express His love to His child.

Why do we keep God waiting for our call to come?

If we have sinned and fear approaching Him, we can be sure that the Father is patient and forgiving. “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) His mercy is abundant. “The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and plenteous in mercy and loving-kindness.” (Psalm 103:8 AMP)

If we feel that we do not want to waste the Lord’s time, we need to remember that He has called us each a masterpiece. “For we are God’s [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew]” (Ephesians 2:10a AMP) He also calls us His precious children. “See what [an incredible] quality of love the Father has given (shown, bestowed on) us, that we should [be permitted to] be named and called and counted the children of God! And so we are! The reason that the world does not know (recognize, acknowledge) us is that it does not know (recognize, acknowledge) Him.” (1 John 3:1 AMP)

If we are busy with other things we need to remember the words Jesus spoke to Martha. "But the Lord replied to her by saying, Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things; There is need of only one or but a few things. Mary has chosen the good portion [that which is to her advantage], which shall not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41-42 AMP) Whatever we consider worth our time more than Jesus is a mistaken and unnecessary distraction.

 And if our hearts have gone cold we must, like the church at Ephesus, return to our first love. “But I have this [one charge to make] against you: that you have left (abandoned) the love that you had at first [you have deserted Me, your first love]. Remember then from what heights you have fallen. Repent (change the inner man to meet God’s will) and do the works you did previously [when first you knew the Lord]” (Revelation 2:4-5a AMP) Contemplate the things God has done in the past and hurry back to Him.

If you have never given your heart to God, do not delay. “Seek, inquire for, and require the Lord while He may be found [claiming Him by necessity and by right]; call upon Him while He is near. Let the wicked forsake his way and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return to the Lord, and He will have love, pity, 

and mercy for him, and to our God, for He will multiply to him His abundant pardon.” (Isaiah 55:6-7 AMP)

So what are we waiting for? Delay no longer. Give God a call today! He is waiting for your call.

A Mist with a Long Lasting Fragrance (5/28/14)

During the funeral of a friend of mine who lost a battle with cancer, the pastor spoke of how life is short.  It is simply a mist, or vapor, in the span of time. He used an aerosol spray to demonstrate this. The mist is visible for only seconds and then disappears. Several minutes after the visible signs of the mist had disappeared; I could smell a hint of lilacs from my seat near the middle of the church. The aroma from the aerosol spray had invisibly spread across the room and reached to where I was sitting. It was a light and sweet smell. Although I could no longer see the mist, the aroma was present.

In that moment I thought of the life we had joined together to remember. She had been a very sweet and loving woman. As a teacher she had poured love into her students. She had raised her own children well and she had been a strong and loving companion to her husband. Friends all had wonderful memories of her. As I breathed in that scent of lilacs, I considered how hints of her life would continue to ripple out for years and even generations to come. She may now be in heaven, but the love that she showed and the lessons she taught will live on here through those who knew her best. Not only her family and friends, but generations to come will be affected by the choices of this amazing woman.

Compared to the vastness of God and eternity our life is but a brief mist. “Yet you do not know [the least thing] about what may happen tomorrow. What is the nature of your life? You are [really] but a wisp of vapor (a puff of smoke, a mist) that is visible for a little while and then disappears [into thin air].” (James 4:14 AMP) This time that we spend on earth is so short compared to what we will have in eternity. Problems and trials we endure are small when placed beside the blessings of living with God forever.

The choices we make in this short life will have an impact that will last far beyond our moment here on earth. The same Bible that speaks of our life being yet a mist also speaks of our effect on generations to come. “…for I the Lord your God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children to the third and fourth generation of those who hate Me, But showing mercy and steadfast love to a thousand generations of those who love Me and keep My commandments.” (Exodus 20:5-6 AMP) Our actions, whether positive or negative, will affect our descendants.  There is so much mercy in this statement.  The negative effects of the sin of those who hate Him go to the third and fourth generations.  The blessings for our obedience to God will effect a thousand generations. God promises mercy and steadfast love to the children of those who love Him.

I had only known my friend for a couple of years, but she has had an impact on my life. I know the impact she had on others was far greater. The aroma she left behind will be present and experienced by one thousand generations of her descendants.  Everyone she has influenced to love God and follow His commandments will also be passing on blessings to one thousand generations of their descendants.  Her spiritual influence has been exponentially positive.

We all have many choices to make during our lifetime. We can choose to focus on the current moment of this life here on earth. In this viewpoint, problems are magnified. We can remember that our life is but a mist, and live in a way that our scent will be fragrant and bring enjoyment to many generations to come. As Scripture states, “For we are the sweet fragrance of Christ [which exhales] unto God, [discernible alike] among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing:” (2 Corinthians 2:15 AMP) This reference to a fragrance is as brief as an exhale. However brief, it is sweet and impactful.

Choose today to see life as it surely is; a wisp of vapor or mist. Choose also what your mist will leave behind for those to come. Choose well!

Primary Care Physician

A nasty fall onto concrete resulted a serious break in my leg. The fall occurred 550 miles away from home at a camp where I had been cooking. The great distance from my home with all of the doctors that I currently have a relationship with complicated the matter. Decisions concerning treatment that included surgery must consider the 8-hour drive home and follow up care after the trip. Critical decisions needed to be made on the first day centered around whether to transport me home to receive the required surgery in familiar surroundings or to have the surgery in Missouri and then transport me home. We opted for the latter option.

In all of the craziness of this turn of events, I needed the insight and counsel of my primary care physician. Although the medical professionals with whom I was speaking, primarily the orthopedic surgeon,
were very skilled and knowledgeable, I desperately needed the council of the doctor with whom I have had a relationship for years and have learned to trust through experience. This relationship with my primary care physician has been established over time. He has been my doctor for more than 15 years, and during that time I have gotten to know and trust his character and ability as a doctor. Through illness, injury and surgery he has provided high quality care and wise courses of treatment.

Circumstances of life can happen at very inconvenient times and in inconvenient places. Through situations, we may be put into relationship with Christian teachers or brothers and sisters we would have otherwise never met. Although they may be very trustworthy and have everything we need at that moment, trust has not yet been built. We need to be desperate for the counsel of God at all times. This relationship is built on daily communication and the development of faith in His Word. The faithfulness of God’s Word and what we have experienced in the past lead to absolute trust in current situations.

Our heavenly Father is more than qualified to care for every aspect of our life. He knows every aspect of our lives. He knows and watches over our coming and going. “The Lord will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore.” (Psalm 121:8 AMP) He knows our every thought. “O Lord, you have searched me [thoroughly] and have known me. You know my downsitting and my uprising; You understand my thought afar off.” (Psalm 139:1-2 AMP) He even knows the number of hairs on our head. “But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered.” (Matthew 10:30 AMP) And He cares for us far beyond even those who love us most.

In every decision of life, we must desperately seek His counsel. Men and women of wisdom will come into our lives for specific purposes. God remains constant throughout. “for He [God] Himself has said, I will not in any way fail you nor give you up nor leave you without support. [I will] not, [I will] not, [I will] not in any degree leave you helpless nor forsake nor let [you] down (relax My hold on you)! [Assuredly not!]” (Hebrews 13:5b AMP) Time, trust and togetherness build a firm relationship.

When we have built up a relationship of trust with our Lord, it becomes natural to desire His counsel before making any decisions. He alone knows everything that we need and sees the proper course of action. Following his directions will turn even negative situations into positive. “We are assured and know that [God being a partner in their labor] all things work together and are [fitting into a plan] for good to and for those who love God and are called according to [His] design and purpose.” (Romans 8:28 AMP)  

God created us and knows everything about us. “For You did form my inward parts; You did knit me together in my mother's womb.” (Psalm 139:13 AMP) The Almighty alone knows the perfect plan for our future. “For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome.” (Jeremiah 29:11 AMP) And following his wise plan will lead us to wholeness. “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)

Jesus has been called the great physician. Give Him the primary control of your life and be desperate for His wisdom in any decisions you make.

Open the Blinds (4/21/14)

Have you ever stayed a hotel with the curtains that blackout all of the light? I have taken the mid-afternoon nap and awoke to believe it was the middle of the night. Unless I looked at the very edge of the curtains, there was no evidence as to condition of the outside world. It was actually bright and sunny.

At home the curtains and blinds do not as intensely block out the light. Yet the amount of light in the room is far reduced from that which is outside the window. With each layer that is opened the light increases. Opening the curtains and then the blinds is required to allow in the maximum amount of light.

In Scripture we are told, “The entrance and unfolding of Your words give light; their unfolding gives understanding (discernment and comprehension) to the simple.” (Psalm 119:130 AMP) Just as the sunlight is outside the window during the day, the light of the word of God; Jesus, is always shining in the spiritual realm. We need to get whatever is blocking that light from entering our minds and hearts. We want to take away, layer by layer, everything that is blocking the light.

When someone is not open to a relationship with Jesus, blockage to the light is as intense as the hotel blackout curtain. The heart cannot receive understanding and does not comprehend the wisdom of God. It will take a desire to see what is beyond the curtain of this life. It may take the assistance of a Jesus follower to allow the hurt heart to know that the light is truly available.

Once we come into a relationship with Jesus, the light is never truly blocked out. It is more like the window coverings at my home. Things of this life can limit the amount of understanding, discernment and comprehension we received from the truth of God’s word. Busyness anger, unbelief, selfishness… the list of things that can block the entrance of God’s word is lengthy.  Each one must be overcome to allow the most light in.

As we begin to give each area of our life over to the Lord, is like turning the rod that controls the blinds. They open a little wider with each turn and allow more light to stream through. As more word and light enter our hearts, more of our true nature can be revealed; strengths and weaknesses. Each change causes us to reflect more of the image of Jesus. We will also see more of God’s call on our life and receive direction in the path we should go.

The longer we live as true students of the word, reading and studying it regularly, we will begin to see more clearly. As we see the things that God wants change, we must be obedient. As time goes by, the blinds on the windows of our lives can be totally opened and actually pulled up by the attached rope. This provides the most open access to our hearts. But there does not come a time that we can coast feeling as though we’re receiving all of the light that God has for us. For even the window without coverings will constantly get fingerprints (or paw prints as in our house). And it will need constant attention just as we need to constantly take in the word of God.

Interestingly, Jesus is both the word and the light. “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14a ESV) “Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12 ESV) As we allow Jesus to become more part of our lives, we live hearing His words and seeing by the true light of life.

So pull back the curtains today begin opening the blinds of your life. Spend time in the word of God and let Him brighten everything that you do.

Turning On or Turning Off? (6/25/14)

Sometimes, when I turn on my computer, the screen is black even though I have not turned the computer off after my last use. If I am not careful I will push the on/off button without thinking. If I have left the computer in ‘sleep’ or ‘hibernate’ mode, pushing that button does not turn the computer on as I desired, but actually turns it off.  Because I did not see the ‘start’ screen quick enough when I opened the computer, my impatient actions have now caused the exact opposite of my intent. Rather than speeding up my ability to begin using this wonderful tool, I now have to await the process of shutting down and then the full process of reopening. This will take far more time than the few seconds that would originally have been required for the login screen to appear.

Like so many, patience is not always my strong suit. This impatient behavior can show up in many areas of life. The results are never positive.  The worst effects occur when we are impatient with the speed of the work of God in our lives.  If we begin to move by our own wisdom, we can make decisions that will lead us directly in the opposite direction of where we want to go.  We will lose time and possibly much, much more.

Scripture shows us examples of this in the lives of some very prominent men. When Abraham and Sarah felt they had waited long enough, they began to move God’s plan along. (See Genesis 16)   Believing they would have the promised child through Sarah’s maid could not have been more wrong. Ishmael actually became an enemy of the promised Isaac. The animosity has continued through the generations. King Saul also found that his impatience and concern for the people around him caused him to make a devastating decision. (See first Samuel 13) When Samuel did not arrive on time, Saul offered the sacrifice himself. This was expressly forbidden by God and caused the kingdom to be taken from Saul’s descendents and given to David.  Perhaps the saddest statement in this account is, “And just as he finished offering the burnt offering, behold, Samuel came!” (1 Samuel 13:10a AMP) If he had only waited a little longer, but impatience had won out.  Abraham and Saul both received the exact opposite effect of what they thought their actions would bring.

We need to consider our actions carefully. Hitting the power button because of impatience with my computer, causes a minor inconvenience. There is a delay of time, and I may become frustrated, but there are no serious, long-lasting consequences. In spiritual matters the consequences can be far more serious. Decisions made or actions taken without waiting for God’s appointed time can have effects for generations to come. Our children, grandchildren and future generations may be affected by the decisions we make today. This is no light matter.

Jesus said, “The sheep that are My own hear and are listening to My voice; and I know them, and they follow Me.” (John 10:27 AMP) Listening requires paying attention. When our attention and focus are the voice of the shepherd, we are less likely to get ahead of His plan. We desire to follow Him because we are confident that He knows the direction we should go.  We are less likely to take action on our own.

The cure for impatience is obviously more patience.  But how do we keep ourselves from becoming impatient? The apostle Paul wrote, “But if we hope for what is still unseen by us, we wait for it with patience and composure.” (Romans 8:25 AMP) Holding on to hope, we can keep our composure and have peace during the wait.  Hope will keep us from rash moves that may appear correct, but will lead in the wrong direction.  Hope can cause us to take a deep breath and continue to wait on God.

As you make decisions today, do not allow impatience or inattentiveness cause you to move too quickly.  Hope in God and wait for His ‘start screen’ to guide your path. 

Little Walks With the One I Love! (1/21/15)

My husband and I sometimes take walks together. Quite often we have the dogs with us. Our goal is simply a little bit of exercise and time together. When we reach the end of our street we do not have a specific destination in mind. We may turn left or we may turn right. Since our neighborhood is a collection of cul-de-sacs, we may choose to wander through one or more of them, or we may choose to just follow the main road. We may also choose to get off the road altogether and walk around the grassy areas that include two ponds. Sometimes we leave our neighborhood all together and drive to a park or walk along Lake Michigan. The purpose of these walks is simply time together.

This time together does not have to have a significant purpose. It is a time when we can talk about the day’s events. We can share hopes and dreams for the future. And often we can just laugh and appreciate the little things of life and each other. This casual time together always brings refreshment to us.

In my last post (January 18, 2015) I spoke about getting off the treadmill and beginning to walk with true purpose under the leading of the Holy Spirit. This is a long, directed walk with God. It is the path that our lives take. We travel down this road a little bit every day for our entire life. Along this path we will also have opportunities to take little side trips. These can be aimless with no real direction in mind. It is simply a walk for enjoyment and companionship.

The Lord also loves spending time together with His children. Just as a dad comes home and plays with his little ones, God wants to just spend time with us. “For [the Spirit which] you have now received [is] not a spirit of slavery to put you once more in bondage to fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption [the Spirit producing sonship] in [the bliss of] which we cry, Abba (Father)! Father!”  (Romans 8:15 AMP) Abba means daddy. Do we cry out, “Daddy! Daddy!” when we have an opportunity to spend time with our Heavenly Father?

Christ, our bridegroom, desires to spend time alone with us. The Song of Solomon contains the musings of a bride concerning her love. “My beloved speaks and says to me, Rise up, my love, my fair one, and come away.” (Song of Solomon 2:10 AMP) She is excited and wants only for time to hurry until they can be together. Is this our response to setting aside time to spend with Jesus? Are we excitedly anticipating the presence of God?

Making a priority to spend some time to just hang out with God will cause these times to occur more frequently. These times of God can be spontaneous. It can be merely a few minutes in the middle of our busy schedule. It can also be a sudden change of plans that would allow more time alone with God. Scheduling these times apart is also important. Scheduling times to simply enjoy God’s presence will enhance everything else in life.

It is the desire of the Lord to share His heart with us. “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.”

(Isaiah 45:3 AMP) Isn’t it amazing that He calls us each by name? No matter how long we have walked with God there’s still more things He wishes to share with us. “Call to Me and I will answer you and show you great and mighty things, fenced in and hidden, which you do not know (do not distinguish and recognize, have knowledge of and understand).” (Jeremiah 33:3 AMP) In all things and at all times God desires to express His love to us. “The Lord appeared from of old to me [Israel], saying, Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore with loving-kindness have I drawn you and continued My faithfulness to you.” (Jeremiah 31:3b AMP)

If time passes and David and I have not had our walks or other times to just talk, we can really feel the effects relationship. We need that time to set aside the business of life and just hang out together. The same is true when we neglect our times with God. In addition to communication concerning the pressing issues of our lives, we need to spend time sharing secrets and just hanging out with our heavenly Father. We cannot neglect these times for they will refresh our souls. “…that times of refreshing (of recovering from the effects of heat, of  reviving with fresh air) may come from the presence of the Lord;” (Acts 3:19b AMP)

Take a little stroll with God today. Share your hopes and dreams and simply walk hand-in-hand with the one you love. He is calling to you, “Come away with Me!”

RAKs (7/4/14)

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 these 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.

Independence Day/Dependence Day (7/4/14)

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.  (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.  ^“ (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 it 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!”

A Fly at the Window (6/4/14)

Most have heard the phrase, “I wish I were a fly on the wall.” This phrase refers to a desire to overhear a particular conversation. Recently I had an encounter with an actual fly at the window. It was the window of the sliding glass door that leads to our backyard. While letting the dogs out, I noticed a fly hovering near the glass. I attempted to guide it around the edge of the door with my hand. The fly desperately attempted to escape that large hand coming at it. It flew down near my feet, then up high and then back to mid-level. At this point, using both hands, I successfully guided and finally pushed the fly around the side of the door and into the opening. It instantly flew into its newfound freedom.

The fly had entered our home by mistake. It was now stuck on the inside of the window looking out at where it should be. Any attempt to reach what was on the other side was blocked by the unseen barrier of the glass. The fly remained inside, next to that glass barrier, drawn by the sunshine just beyond its reach. When my hand came by to gently guide it outside, it went to great lengths to avoid it. Freedom was so close and my hand was the vehicle to obtain that freedom. Fear caused that fly to avoid its path to freedom.

How often are we just like that fly? We may gaze at the life we wish to live. Dreams seem to be on the other side of an invisible barrier. These dreams may be beautiful, but appear to be just beyond our reach.

It has never been God’s will for us to be in a position to be impeded by obstacles. He provides a path around all barriers and leads us into freedom. Jesus stated, “The sheep that are My own hear and are listening to My voice; and I know them, and they follow Me.” (John 10:27 AMP) We are the sheep Jesus refers to. He does not state that the sheep watch Him from behind glass but actively follow Him. Scripture also states, “And your ears will hear a word behind you, saying, This is the way; walk in it, when you turn to the right hand and when you turn to the left.” (Isaiah 30:21 AMP) Again this statement says to walk, not to watch. God has a good plan for each of His children. He wants us to be active participants and not trapped onlookers.  He calls us to walk with Him to fulfill that plan.

Many times we can be trapped behind barriers such as fear, self-doubt, laziness or host of other things that keep us from walking in God’s perfect plan. We may gaze longingly but not know how to get past the obstacles that prevent us from stepping into our roles. In all circumstances, God’s hand will guide us. King David knew this well and spoke of God’s presence regardless of where he could go; even to the deepest part of the sea. “Even there shall Your hand lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me.” (Psalm 139:10 AMP) David allowed the hand of God to lead him and did not resist. Fear did not cause him to shrink away, and we should not allow fear, or anything else, to cause us to flee from God’s leading hand. 

I had no ill will toward the fly. I just wanted it out of my house and into the fresh open air where it belonged. Likewise, God has only good for us.  He wants us out of the bondage that holds us back from doing and being all He intends. His desire is that we walk in His perfect will and reap the benefits of serving and ministering to Him with our entire being. Rather than running from God, this should be our constant prayer. “My whole being follows hard after You and clings closely to You; Your right hand upholds me.” (Psalm 63:8 AMP) The hand of God may be enormous and appear overwhelming. That huge hand contains a picture of us. “Behold, I have indelibly imprinted (tattooed a picture of) you on the palm of each of My hands;” (Isaiah 49:16a AMP) We have no cause to fear it, but should enthusiastically welcome its guidance. 

Do not stand behind any invisible barrier and look out at the full life God has planned for you. Allow His massive, yet gentle, hand guide you into all the things. Serve Him and enjoy contentment beyond anything you can know.