Superman 2 - He Sees Through All

One of the superhero qualities associated with Superman is his x-ray vision. He can see through walls to the activity within the building. Unless it is made of lead, he can see through a container and determine the contents within. With this ability, he does not have to speculate on a situation that he is walking into, but understands completely what lies ahead. Able to see clearly beyond the barriers, Superman can plan his actions according to what truly exists rather than a mere perception of what may be inside.

We have a Savior with far more power and insight then could have ever been conceived in the story of Superman. Jesus Christ is able to see everything at all times. “The Lord looks from heaven, He beholds all the sons of men; From His dwelling place. He looks [intently] upon all the inhabitants of the earth.” (Psalm 33:13-14 AMP) He sees the good and the bad and He sees each and every person. Therefore we can confidently know that we are never alone. After running away from Abraham and Sarah, Hagar and her son felt completely alone. (See Genesis 16) Even in the wilderness the Lord saw her and spoke with her. He gave her hope. “So she called the name of the Lord Who spoke to her, You are a God of seeing, for she said, Have I [not] even here [in the wilderness] looked upon Him Who sees me [and lived]? Or have I here also seen [the future purposes or designs of] Him Who sees me[KS1] ?” (Genesis 16:13 AMP)

We can never stray so far, that the Lord cannot see us. King David said, “Where could I go from Your Spirit? Or where could I flee from Your presence? If I ascend up into heaven, You are there; if I make my bed in Sheol (the place of the dead), behold, You are there. If I take the wings of the morning or dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there shall Your hand lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me. If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me and the night shall be [the only] light about me, Even the darkness hides nothing from You, but the night shines as the day; the darkness and the light are both alike to You.” (Psalm 139:7-12 AMP)

The Lord not only sees all, but He judges accurately in both circumstances and the hearts of men. We can often judge people by their actions, but Jesus sees the underlying hurts and insecurities. When the prophet Samuel went to anoint David as the new king of Israel, he was errantly drawn to the eldest son. “But the Lord said to Samuel, Look not on his appearance or at the height of his stature, for I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees; for man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7 AMP) We can be confident that in whatever circumstances we find ourselves, God looks at our hearts. Unlike Superman, there is no substance such as lead that can block the eyes of the Lord.

Sometimes we do not even understand our own actions and thoughts. There may be some hurts and insecurities that are buried so deep that we do not even realize they effect our response to circumstances around us. In His great compassion, Jesus sees and responds to our true hearts. Like a scalpel in the hand of the surgeon the word of God can accurately cut through all misconceptions. God can both see and reveal to us the true intents of our hearts. “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. And not a creature exists that is concealed His sight, but all things are open and exposed, naked and defenseless to the eyes of Him with Whom we have to do.” (Hebrews 4:12-13 AMP)

As brothers and sisters in Christ, we need to ask the Holy Spirit to give us a portion of this x-ray vision so that we may accurately perceive both our own hearts and the hearts of others. It is only through this God-given ability that we will can accurately understand ourselves. And only then can we truly see and love others with the heart of Jesus.

So, ask God for a glimpse into your current situations with His x-ray vision. Then act and love as He intends.

Keep the Son in Your Eyes (3/14/14)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Caring for Our Own House (1/2/15)

As I mentioned in a recent post, I have been helping a friend pack up her house to move away. In order for her and her eldest son to meet the rest of the family in time for Christmas, my husband, son and I offered to do some of the final cleanup on the home before it was turned back to the landlord. Between this and the hours I have been putting in at my two part time jobs, I have had little time to give the needed attention to my own home. Putting up all the Christmas decorations and preparing food for both Christmas and New Year’s celebrations has added to the disarray that is now in most every room in my home.

So now on New Year’s Day my husband and son are helping me begin the task of getting our home back in order. We must go through some of the items that have been put aside over the past few weeks as well as get to some basic cleaning that has been put off. Although dishes and laundry have been kept up with, the rest of the house requires some attention. The care that I generally give too my home has been neglected and it shows.

If we are not careful the same thing can happen to us spiritually. We can become involved in a God given opportunity to pour into the life of someone else. This need may be time sensitive and require our immediate attention. We can also become caught up in the ordinary things of life such as jobs or other regularly scheduled activities. Add in some other special events and we may soon fine that we have neglected our time with the Heavenly Father which is vital to our own spiritual health. We have become tired, weak and possibly overwhelmed. Soon our internal house is no longer in order.

It simply takes a little daily time with the Lord to keep our spiritual homes in order. We cannot keep giving to others if we do not find our own strength in the Lord. “…But David encouraged and strengthened himself in the Lord his God.” (1 Samuel 30:6b AMP) Just as we strengthen our bodies by eating nutritious foods, we strengthen our spiritual body by taking in the Word of God daily. ^“ You have said, Seek My face [inquire for and require My presence as your vital need]. My heart says to You, Your face (Your presence), Lord, will I seek, inquire for, and require [of necessity and on the authority of Your Word].” (Psalm 27:8 AMP) We require time with the Lord daily. Spending this time seeking Him will prevent negative thoughts or behaviors from taking up residency in our lives.

With all of the extra clutter in our house I would not have wanted company to visit. The only visitors that we have had are some close friends that understood the situation we were in and did not think anything of the appearance of our home. I would have been unwilling to invite anyone else over during this time.

When we think about our spiritual homes we know that scripture calls our body the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit. “Do you not know that your body is the temple (the very sanctuary) of the Holy Spirit Who lives within you, Whom you have received [as a Gift] from God? You are not your own,” (1 Corinthians 6:19 AMP) Do we really want Him to live in the disarray? Do we really want Him to live with us yet not be sought out for guidance and simple conversation? Hopefully the answer is no. Then it is time to be concerned with getting our home in order.

Jesus has provided us with this wonderful invitation. “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest. [I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls.]” (Matthew 11:28 AMP) We can turn to Him through the Scriptures and quiet times listening to His voice. In the business of life and serving others we need refreshing often. ^“My soul yearns for You [O Lord] in the night, yes, my spirit within me seeks You earnestly;” (Isaiah 26:9a AMP) When we seek we will then become strong and able to give out to others.

If you have become busy with other things and neglected time with the Lord, turn to Him today.  Do not allow anything to keep you from this life giving and life sustaining time.

Superman 1 - He Always Hears

A mild-mannered Clark Kent goes about his days working as a reporter. Things are business as usual at the newspaper office. Unbeknownst to anyone else, a cry comes from the distance. “Help, Superman, help!” The only ears that hear this faraway cry are those of Clark, the incognito Superman. Activity continues uninterrupted at the newspaper office where no one is aware of the cry. Yet immediately, Clark excuses himself from the everyday, ordinary routine and springs into action. Superman, traveling faster than a speeding bullet, appears on scene to assist the one in need.

When we call upon the Lord in our times of need, He hears no matter where we are or what is going on around us. Throughout the activity and business of the world, the Lord hears and is ready to help us. ^“And call on Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall honor and glorify Me.” (Psalm 50:15 AMP) God will protect, deliver and provide for His children. ^“For in the day of trouble He will hide me in His shelter; in the secret place of His tent will He hide me; He will set me high upon a rock.” (Psalm 27:5 AMP) The Lord provides whatever is needed at the current time.

When confused and unsure of the next step to take, we can call on Him for wisdom and guidance. ^“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) When we need forgiveness He is ready to respond to us. ^”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) When we have a need we can call on Him in prayer knowing that He will not only provide for our need, but He will also give us peace. ^“Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God. And God's peace [shall be yours, that tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7 AMP)

The stories of Superman, whether comic book television show or movie, are filled with scenarios of people crying out for his help. He does not hesitate to come when called, regardless of who is calling. He is willing and ready to help any in need who call out to him. Yet, when the voice that calls out is that of Lois Lane, the woman he loves, his response is even more intense. He knows her voice and his heart longs to save her speedily.

The Lord is also ready to respond to all who call on Him. “The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him sincerely and in truth.”  (Psalm 145:18 AMP) Whoever and wherever we are God is waiting to respond to us when we call out in faith. Scripture also tells us that the Lord knows the sound of His follower’s voices. “I am the Good Shepherd; and I know and recognize My own, and My own know and recognize Me.” (John 10:14 AMP) He is ready to reach out to us with amazing compassion. “As a father loves and pities his children, so the Lord loves and pities those who fear Him [with reverence, worship, and awe].” (Psalm 103:13 AMP) With the wisdom of an all-knowing father, God will receive and care for His children.

The response of all who were rescued should always be gratitude. We should be filled with the great awareness that God hears our cries regardless of how dark the situation becomes. He is never too far away to hear. “In my distress [when seemingly closed in] I called upon the Lord and cried to my God; He heard my voice out of His temple (heavenly dwelling place), and my cry came before Him, into His [very] ears.” (Psalm 18:6 AMP) Our response will become praise and thankfulness that leads to love. “I love the Lord, because He has heard [and now hears] my voice and my supplications. Because He has inclined His ear to me, therefore will I call upon Him as long as I live.” (Psalm 116:1-2 AMP)

 So how will you respond in a time of trouble? Wherever you are, you can call upon the Lord and He will hear you. “As for me, I will call upon God, and the Lord will save me.” Psalm 55:16 (AMP)

A Song Stuck in My Heart (1/7/15)

Have you ever had that certain song stuck in your mind. It plays over and over again; sometimes at the most inopportune moment. It can take extreme concentration to get the song out of your mind to focus on important matters.
A coworker of mine purchased the movie “Frozen” for her daughter for Christmas. She commented that she just couldn't get that soundtrack out of her mind. The daughter has watched the movie over and over again in recent days. After relating this, her final comment was “There are worse songs to have stuck in your head. At least I enjoy these songs.”
I began to wonder about the spiritual songs that are stuck in our minds. What songs are playing in our minds? What songs are we singing in our hearts each day? Do we sing songs of praise that extol the attributes of God as we are directed to do in the Psalms? ^“Sing to Him, sing praises to Him; meditate on and talk of all His marvelous deeds and devoutly praise them.” (Psalm 105:2 AMP) Or do we repeatedly go over everything we need and everything we want. Do we moan over things that we do not have or opportunities that we have missed. What is the melody that plays in our minds over and over as the day goes on?
Many of us have been singing the songs of need and lack. We've contemplated far too much on what we don't have or what someone else has that we would like. We have bemoaned that which we cannot do rather than been thankful for that which we are able. We cry over dreams that have not been realized and refuse to dream big dreams of what God can and desires to do in and through us. These are not the songs we wish to have stuck in our minds. These are not enjoyable songs.
The song that we listen to repeatedly in your mind is the song that we begin to sing. The song that we sing leads to the life that we will live. It is essential to choose the song wisely. We must listen to God's precious promises that are repeated over and over again in the scripture. His love for us is great and He has carefully chosen His song to sing over us. “The Lord your God is in the midst of you, a Mighty One, a Savior [Who saves]! He will rejoice over you with joy; He will rest [in silent satisfaction] and in His love He will be silent and make no mention [of past sins, or even recall them]; He will exult over you with singing.” (Zephaniah 3:17 AMP) It is time that we listen to God’s song, learn its melody and sing it ourselves.
So how do we get a bad song out of our mind?  Focusing on getting rid of this song will only draw our attention to it more and more.  We need to listen to a new soundtrack and replace the song with a better one.  Meditating on Scripture is a great way to do this. We must fill our mind with the promises of God.  Good worship music is another way to turn our focus to the greatness of God and His love toward us. Once we have changed what we are listening to we can make the decision to sing a different song.  Scripture gives repeated encouragements to do this. The Psalmists wrote, “O sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth!” (Psalm 96:1 AMP) and “O sing to the Lord a new song, for He has done marvelous things; His right hand and His holy arm have wrought salvation for Him.” (Psalm 98:1 AMP) We get the same command from the prophet Isaiah. “Sing to the Lord a new song, and His praise from the end of the earth! You who go down to the sea, and all that is in it, the islands and coastal regions and the inhabitants of them [sing a song such as has never been heard in the heathen world]!” (Isaiah 42:10 Bible AMP) We can change the tune that plays in our hearts so that it becomes a tune we enjoy hearing, humming and singing.
What tune are you listening to today? If it is not in line with God’s love for you, make the effort to change it now. Listen to His song of rejoicing over you and sing a song of praise and thanks back to Him.  Soon these songs will be the ones that stick in your heart and mind.

What to Take When You Move (12/31/14)

A close friend’s family has recently moved away. I helped my friend get her house packed up and ready to load the trailers that would take her belongings to her new home. There was a lot of work to be done in this endeavor. There were many items from the house to be sorted through and cleared out. Within this house were all of the belongings not only of her and her husband, but also of her four children. In the garage were boxes to be sorted through that had not even been opened from the last move. The task was great indeed

This process of preparing for the move was very long and tedious. As each room was sorted through things were placed in one of three categories. Some items were to be packed to go on the trailer to the new home. Other items were put in bags or boxes to be taken to charity. And the third category was items that were simply trash which needed to be thrown away. After living for several years at this location there was a lot to go through.

Often God directs us to move on to a new direction in life. ^“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 43:19 AMP) As we follow His path we will find that we will need to go through a similar process to preparing to move from home to home. If God is planning a new thing for us some of the old will no longer be a part of our lives. This is the time when we will be required to evaluate everything that we currently hold dear. Some will continue to be a valuable part of our lives, but other things must be given or thrown away.

As we begin the sort through our lives we will find that some things are just simply no longer important. Even if once useful they have now served their purpose and have become quite worn out. These things would now just be in our way and we must cast them aside. “Therefore then, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses [who have borne testimony to the Truth], let us strip off and throw aside every encumbrance (unnecessary weight) and that sin which so readily (deftly and cleverly) clings to and entangles us, and let us run with patient endurance and steady and active persistence the appointed course of the race that is set before us,” (Hebrews 12:1 AMP) These things are not all sin but will all get in the way of God’s call. It is time to throw them away.

As we continue to sort we will also find other items in our spiritual walk that may no longer be appropriate for what God is calling us to do, but may be beneficial to others. Sometimes God may ask us to give away a favorite book or CD series that has caused a lot of growth in us in the past. He may be asking us to give away practical items such as clothing, jewelry, household items and other things. This is when we see a need in the body of Christ and can share with one another. We can be encouraging. ^“Therefore encourage (admonish, exhort) one another and edify (strengthen and build up) one another, just as you are doing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11 AMP) And we can enhance the lives of our brothers and sisters. ^“Contribute to the needs of God’s people [sharing in the necessities of the saints]; pursue the practice of hospitality.” (Romans 12:13 AMP) 

Finally, our sorting will uncover the critical things that must go with us. The most important of this is the Word of God that we have learned through the years. “Your word have I laid up in my heart, that I might not sin against You.” (Psalm 119:11 AMP) God has equipped us with many things along the way and He will continue to use these in our lives. Our character growth and memories of God’s faithfulness must go on with us. These we must pack and keep close at hand for the journey. Much of what has been done in our past has been preparation for the path ahead.

New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day are times when many look back on their lives over the past year. As the year 2014 comes to an end today we can take a moment to evaluate where in life we are right now. We can also look with hopeful expectation so what 2015 will bring to us and consider what we will bring to it.

What will you hold dear to this year? What will you give away? And what must you simply throw away? 

The Sky is So Blue! (12//8/14)

As we take a drive on a brisk December day Helen, my 93-year-old companion, comments “The sky is so blue!” There are fluffy white clouds drifting against a brilliant, blue background. The brightly shining sun creates an amazing view. Even though it is cold outside, the beauty of the sky is spectacular.

Because Helen’s memory does not work as well as it once did, she often repeats a comment only moments after she has spoken it. In the 10 minute drive between her house and mine, I heard “The sky is so blue!” at least eight times. One might find this repetition humorous or even annoying. But in times like this, my attention is drawn to the true beauty of that sky. On my own I may look up and appreciate the massive blue background to the clouds, birds and outlines of trees and buildings. I may note and possibly even voice my appreciation once. Then my mind would move on to other things. In Helen’s forgetfulness, her repeated comments bring me back to truly appreciate what is before me.

As we drove home later, that same sky was now dark. Stars were beginning to become visible and all traces of the blue we had seen before had vanished with the setting of the sun. This dark sky brought no comments from my friend. We spoke about other things as we made the return trip to her home.

Had anything really changed in that sky? The sky itself was exactly the same. It doesn’t change. What changes is the reflection of the sun. Without the sun to reflect what was blue becomes black. Other changes occur when clouds block the beauty of the blue sky. A sky full of gray clouds can hide any evidence of blue leaving a dreary image of pending rain. Yet behind those clouds that beautiful blue sky has not changed.

The sky of our lives is very much the same. God has placed each one of us on this earth in exactly the right place. His grace and mercy are like that blue sky. They are canopy over us that does not change. Regardless of the circumstances in our lives at any given time, God remains the same. “For I am the Lord, I do not change;” (Malachi 3:6a AMP) All His mighty attributes and faithful love are steadfast. We may simply not be able to see them at that given time.

The key factor to blue sky is a reflection of the sun. The key factor in accurately seeing God’s canopy over us is a reflection of the light of His Son, Jesus Christ. In order to see clearly, we must enter relationship with the true light. “…He said, I am the Light of the world. He who follows Me will not be walking in the dark, but will have the Light which is Life.” (John 8:12 AMP) Without the light of Jesus we can never truly see the loving nature of our Heavenly Father.

When we look up to the sky and see only gray it does not mean that the skies have actually changed. Rain clouds have moved into our line of vision blocking that brilliant blue. When trials and hard times are all that we can see with our natural eyes, God’s faithfulness has not changed. He is still Jehovah Rohi, the Lord our Banner! His love and protection is continually over us. We must cling to this truth. Even the grayness of the rain clouds brings a promise of much needed water for the earth. The grayness of the trials we face, likewise bring the promise of much-needed grace, mercy and strength from our loving Heavenly Father. In these times, we must cling to the Scriptures and the true nature of God. We have this promise, “Your mercy and loving-kindness, O Lord, extend to the skies, and Your faithfulness to the clouds.” (Psalm 36:5 AMP)

Doubting that God’s nature of love and concern for us is like doubting that the sky has remained intact. Riding in an airplane, the truth about the sky can become readily apparent. When traveling through a storm, the pilot will often guide the plane to an altitude that is above the clouds. The thunder, lightning and grayness of those clouds remain beneath the plane while the brilliant blue of the sky is all around. Through thanksgiving, praise, worship, Bible study and prayer we can rise above those clouds of trials just as the plane did. Like the pilot choosing to point the nose of the airplane upward, we can choose to lift our eyes up beyond the natural sight and look into the spirit realm where God’s true nature is obvious. We can know that the sky is still blue.

When facing trials, we may need to become a bit like my elderly friend, Helen. We may need to continually speak out the fact that the sky is still blue. We may need to remind ourselves over and over that beyond our current circumstances the grace and mercy of God still stands. His faithful protection of us has not changed. His love remains constant in all things. We remember, “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows and proclaims His handiwork.” (Psalm 19:1 AMP)

If everything is going well in your life right now, thank God for the blue skies. If things are rough, remind yourself that beyond the clouds the sky is still blue!

Pre-Shrunk? (4/14/14)

I recently completed a project for a tray table cover. My husband uses this tray for his computer. I was really happy with how it turned out. It fits snugly over the tray and has the pockets he requested on one side. I do not sew very much, so this was quite an accomplishment for me.

Until… this thought crossed my mind. What happens if the material shrinks? The tray cover will inevitably need washing at some point. At that point my cover will become too tight to get over the tray. Any seasoned seamstress would have thoroughly washed and dried the material before beginning a project. The material would have shrunk in this process.  Then later there is no fear of shrinkage ruining the project.

Sometimes we may feel a call of God on our life. It may be a burning desire to do something for Him. We just want to get on with things and begin the work. But God’s plan seems to say “wait” far longer than we would like. It may even seem that we are going backwards. These are times when God is working on our character. He has something beautiful to create in our lives. But He is very aware of how character flaws can destroy ministries and relationships.

Many great men of the Bible received promises and visions from God. There was a long time and many trials between this initial vision and the receipt of the promise. Joseph dreamed of his future position where even his family would bow down to him. In the years before this would come about, Joseph was thrown into a pit to die, sold to slave traders, worked himself up to a position in a wealthy person’s home only to be lied about an thrown in prison. He was forgotten in prison by two men whom he interpreted dreams for, until Pharaoh experienced a recurring, distressing dream. It was not until this time, when he interpreted Pharaoh’s dream, that he became second-in-command in the entire land of Egypt. (See Genesis 37–42)  From the arrogant youth sharing his dreams of lording it over his family, Joseph became a man of resolve and compassion. He had the wisdom to watch over Pharaoh’s affairs and the love to forgive his family for the wrongs they had done to him.

King David’s life showed a similar pattern. He was anointed king when still a young man. But before that came to pass, he served King Saul and later fled as Saul’s armies sought to kill him. He eventually became king and ruled for some years. Yet again he fled from the armies of a son. During his times in the caves, hiding from his enemy, David learned much of the ways and laws of Almighty God. His love for God grew immensely as did his character. He was even called a man to God’s own heart. “And when He had deposed him, He raised up David to be their king; of him He bore witness and said, I have found David son of Jesse a man after My own heart, who will do all My will and carry out My program fully.” (Acts 13:22 AMP) (see Psalms written by David) 

And the apostle Paul, after his dramatic transformation and great ability to preach from his Pharisee training, went away for a time before beginning his great ministry.  ^“Nor did I [even] go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles (special messengers of Christ) before I was, but I went away and retired into Arabia, and afterward I came back again to Damascus.” (Galatians 1:17 AMP) God had much to teach him about the message and the people he would bring that message to. 

Like these men, we may go through uncomfortable times being made ready for work that God has planned for us. God has great concern for all His children. When we are working for Him, we can bring the healing He longs to give to many broken lives. Or operating out of the selfish character or erroneous idea, we can cause great hurts that will also be credited to His name. 

This principle is also true about relationships. I look at the years of my life that I thought I should have already been married. (I was married at age 29) But looking back, I see that there were insecurities and other issues in my heart.  If God had not had the time and my attention to work some of these out, I may have destroyed my husband. I may have been demanding from him what only God could give me. 

So, at whatever point you are right now, remember my little project. Allow God the opportunity to pre-shrink your character. Then at the right time He will place you where He can use you. You will have already been through the trials that will make you strong and enduring for His kingdom.

Turn On the Correct Light Switch (5/17/14)

I live in a tri-level home with a very open floor plan and a vaulted ceiling. The main level consists of a kitchen – dining – living room that wraps around a partial wall. This style of house allows for plenty of light. The kitchen is affected by light that comes in the living room window. The living room is likewise affected by light that comes in through the windows and patio door of the kitchen. These also affect the den which is on the lower level and the upstairs hall.

In the evening and early morning, while it is dark outside, the same happens to a lesser degree from the lights in each room. Because of its central location, this is particularly true with the dining room light. This light fixture also shines brighter light than the lamps in the living room. When I turn this on, all four rooms will receive plenty of light to navigate your way through without difficulty, even when items that may have been left on the floor by the dogs. However, it does not provide enough light to clearly see everything in the all rooms.  For that reason, each room has its own lights.

When I get up in the morning it is usually still dark. My routine is to let the dogs out, get their food ready and make my coffee. Although I could accomplish this with only the dining room light, turning on the kitchen light enables me to clearly see exactly what I am doing.  This light shines directly on the counter where I perform these tasks.

The word of God tells us, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105 AMP) God’s word will direct the steps of our everyday lives. Spending time reading and studying the Scriptures will direct us as we go about our daily tasks and make decisions. The light of God’s word will illuminate and cause things to become clear.  It shines directly where it is needed and spotlights our feet and our path.

As we shine this lamp on the path of our daily life, we will find help in all we do. My dining room light illuminates much of the two lower levels of my home and shines up the staircase.  Likewise all of God’s word brings light. Walking into specific areas of our lives is like walking into individual rooms in my home. Although the general light is shining, a more focused light may be required to accomplish the task we are to undertake. If we are seeking God for direction concerning a decision for our future, reading verses on guidance and following the Lord is what we need to do. If we are lacking in hope, then verses on hope will provide the light we need far more so than verses on any other subject.  The same is true for love, forgiveness, provision, serving or any other topic we choose.  When attempting to overcome negative habits, we should also concentrate on Scriptures that refer to the specific sin we are working to overcome.

God’s promises are true and apply to all who seek His face.  He knows what His children need and when they need it.  He is ready to give good gifts to us as we ask.  We then seek out the hidden treasure of the His word for each specific need in our lives.  We must also be willing to obey what we see as we study to get the full benefit.  Willing obedience opens the eyes of our hearts to let more light enter.  As the path is lit, the feet can walk along it following its twists and turns.

The Bible also says, “But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, which shines brighter and brighter until full day.” (Proverbs 4:18 ESV)  As we continue to seek God’s direction in any area of our lives it will become clear, little by little. As the day progresses the sun outside shines brighter and overcomes the need for interior lights in my home. Also, as we become more fully aware of His truth, the brightness of Jesus, Himself, will shine in our heart. His word will become a part of us.

What areas are you seeking answers from God today?  Find Scriptures that shine the light of His truth on those specific areas.  His light will shine and make your path become clear.  

Playing To Win (The Game of Living in the Wisdom of God-3) (11/8/13)

You have learned the rules and taken a step off start. Now is when the game really gets fun. Are you extremely competitive? Not too many people play a game without wanting to win. Competition can bring out both the best and the worst in us. As we continue to play games as we grow up, we hopefully become better sports.  As a child, I hated being sent back to start because someone else landed on my spot. I was sure I would lose the game.  As an adult, I see it as merely a setback.
As we walk through life, testing and trials of can bring either the best or the worst out of us. “The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, or out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.” (Luke 6:45 ESV)
The longer we walk with Christ and see God’s faithfulness, the more we will develop faith and trust that he will bring us through.  We learn that setbacks do not determine our outcomes.  Our attitudes should improve, and our hope and trust soar.
To be successful in any game you must know your opponent. Football teams watch video of games played by their upcoming opponent. They study strength and weakness, and they proceed from there. Chess players study the moves of other players, both to sharpen their own skill and defeat their opponents. Whether it be a board game, card game, sport or any competition, watching the opponent to see his or her tendencies can be very valuable. But even more than knowing your opponent’s strengths and weaknesses, it is important to develop your own strength. This is done by daily walking in the Word.
So in life, who is our opponent? “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” (1 Peter five: 8 ESV) So often we think we are fighting against other people. This simply is not true. “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.”(Ephesians 6:12 ESV)  Our enemy is the same enemy that tripped up Adam and Eve.  He is the same enemy Jesus faced and defeated.  The devil is the enemy of God and we belong to God.  Therefore, he is our enemy.
Our enemy, the devil, knows the Bible and will taunt us with it. This was evidenced by his attempts to tempt Jesus in the wilderness. (Luke 4)  He repeatedly quoted Scripture to Jesus. He knew what the word said, but did not allow the Holy Spirit to show the true meaning. He twisted the word to tempt Jesus, and he will do the same to us. It may come as a thought or a misunderstanding of something said by another. The intent is always the same. He will either try to deceive us and cause us to sin, or to doubt the direction God is leading us.
We are called to fight with faith. “Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called and about which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.” (1 Timothy 6:12 ESV) We are to keep advancing around the game board. Though the enemy will try to make us retreat, we seek the will of God, trust the word and advance.
We are not in this game alone. This is a game played with partners. These partners are your brothers and sisters in Christ. People who play games or sports with the same partner for a long period of time get to know, trust and rely on those partners. They can often tell exactly what moves that partner will make. Then they can adapt themselves to those moves. We also can get to know our brothers and sisters in Christ. We can operate together to advance the kingdom of God. “Two are better than one, because they have a good [more satisfying] reward for their labor;”(Ecclesiastes 4:9 AMP)  We are all in this together.
And our greatest partner of all is Jesus! He walks beside us, every move we make. “For he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5b ESV) We can trust that He will be with us until the end. The final words of the Matthew’s gospel states, “And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:16b ESV)  We are never alone on this journey.
Our opponent has already been defeated. “And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying,“Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God.” (Rev 12:10 ESV) So move forward in the power of God. Many are watching and cheering for you. "Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God." (Hebrews 12:1-2)
So follow the directions you have received. Play the game to win.  Your ultimate victory is guaranteed! 

Playing By the Rules (The Game of Living in the Wisdom of God-2) (11/6/13)

Once you have set up the game board and placed your piece on start, the next step to successfully play any game is to learn the rules.  You accomplish this by reading the directions.  For a successful walk with God, the directions come from His Word.  Fear of the Lord, our starting point, respects the fact that His plan is the best.  “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.”  (Isaiah 55:9)  We must acknowledge that He has the perfect plan for our life.  Then we must invest time and energy to find that plan. 

Learning the Word of God is the key to playing the game successfully.  The Bible is our rule book and our playbook.  Reading, studying and memorizing it provides the directions for our daily life. It guards against sin. “I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” (Psalm 119:11 ESV)  It provides direction “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” (Psalm 119:105 ESV)

Once we learn the rules, we must agree to abide by them.  Many board games and card games have a series of “house rules” that people have added over the years.  To speed up monopoly, my family dealt out three properties to each player at the start of the game.  I remember a friend coming over and being both confused and upset with my brother for doing this.  There are certain card games that my husband and I always clarify the rules before playing.  I don’t think either one of us knows what the original rules actually state.  We just know how we’ve played in the past. 

For a game this practice may be fine, but not with the Word of God.  We must not only learn the rules and directions set forth by the Bible, we must also follow them.  We cannot alter His directions to make things more convenient or to our liking. Throughout generations, these alternate interpretations and additions to the Word of God have led to divisions between believers.  On an individual level, one can try to make God’s Word support a preconceived idea or desire.  The only successful way to operate your life is to take His Word and keep listening until you are following His original directions for you. 

Obedience is the key.  We learn His Word and do what it says. “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” (James1:22 ESV)  To avoid deception, we must obey what we hear.  We must do what the Word instructs us to and not do what we think it says.  King Saul learned this the hard way when He did some of what God commanded, but did not follow through with the whole plan. God’s response was not what he expected.   “And Samuel said, “Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to listen than the fat of rams.” (1 Samuel 15:22)  God is not pleased when we make up our own rules by adapting what the Bible teaches.  Our good works apart from His leading are not pleasing to Him. 

With these tips in mind, it’s time to get in the game.  Study the Bible, your rule book.  Listen to God’s direction for you.  His voice is so much better than rolling the dice or spinning a wheel. Then start your journey around the board of your “Game of Living in the Wisdom of God.”

Stuck on Start (The Game of Living in the Wisdom of God-1) (11/4/13)

Does anyone set up a board game and then stop on the space marked Start?  Do you open up your computer and click the Start icon, but never chose a program to open?  Do athletes bolt out of the Starting block, only to stop after the first step or two?  Although these statements seem a bit absurd, sometimes Christians do just this in their walks with God.  Some have come into a relationship with Jesus Christ and even taken a move or two in building that relationship.  But then they seem to just stare out at the game board (a deep walk full of the wisdom of God).  They watch their fellow players (other believers) move around the board without continuing on very far.  Start is the beginning.  Its only purpose is to set something in motion. 

Proverbs 1 defines the origin of wisdom. “The reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord is the beginning and the principal and choice part of knowledge [its starting point and its essence]; but fools despise skillful and godly Wisdom, instruction, and discipline.” (Proverbs 1:7 AMP) Reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord is the starting point and essence of wisdom.  We must come to that place of reverence, of respect, admiration and honor for God.  We must truly acknowledge and remind ourselves of His greatness. Without a vision of just how awesome He is, we will never have a true trust that leads to wisdom.  

For years I would quote this and I well knew that I must respectfully worship God to gain wisdom.  I often found myself asking for wisdom.  I would acknowledge that all true wisdom comes only from Him. I sometimes even reminded Him that He promises to give His children what they ask for in prayer. “If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you”.  (John 15:7 ESV) However I checked off my list of ‘All I know to do’, I could not seem to receive and continue to walk in God’s wisdom.

 I have received His guidance in many areas of my life.  But I have recently discovered the reason why there has been an inconsistency.  I have realized that the wisdom did not generally arrive as I sat in times of contemplating the greatness of God.  It did not come when I simply spent time in worship or as I voiced my gratefulness. It did not even come simply because I requested it in prayer. There was another key to moving off start and actually moving in wisdom.  In the last year, I have come to realize the other aspect of my life that was this key.

Directions for how to develop and live in the wisdom of God are found in Psalms. “The reverent fear and worship of the Lord is the beginning of [a]Wisdom and skill [the preceding and the first essential, the prerequisite and the alphabet]; a good understanding, wisdom, and meaning have all those who do [the will of the Lord]. Their praise of Him endures forever.)”  (Psalm 111:10 AMP) We have already established in Proverbs that the starting spot of the game of Wisdom is reverence and respect.  To get off start and actually move through life with wisdom, we must do something.  This wisdom is given to all who do His will.

 Obedience was that missing key.  We must listen to and do the will of God.  As we walk in obedience to each direction He gives us, we will obtain the wisdom for the next step.  We often want it the other way around.  We want the entire game plan before we start to move.  But God tells us to move and He will supply the direction as we go.  He leads from in front, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” (John 10:27 ESV) As we walk, He also leads from behind.  “And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left.” (Isaiah 30:21ESV) He has also given us the rule/play book; the Word of God.  So, we must walk in obedience, trusting that wisdom will be given, even when we begin to misstep. 

We start by learning who God really is.  This is not just titles, but truly encountering His nature.  We stand in amazement of and acknowledge Him.  Then we walk in what we know, being led step by step.  One move at a time we will advance around the game board of this life.

 So, get off start.  Make your move of obedience and get it the game.  It will be great!

Where Are You Going? (1/19/15)

One day, a young mother was walking on her treadmill when her two and a half year old daughter entered the room. The toddler paused for a moment and a puzzled look crossed her face. In a sweet, innocent voice she asked, “Mommy, where are you going?” After a moment of confusion followed by a hidden chuckle, the mother replied, “Nowhere honey. Mommy is just walking.”

Remembering this story always brings a smile to my face.  I wonder if we don't sometimes spiritually live out the same scenario. Caught up in daily activities that we perform out of habit, do we step on a spiritual treadmill where we get a lot of exercise, but do not gain any ground. Does the voice of the Holy Spirit ask us where we are going?

There are several types of spiritual treadmills that we can choose to step on. A few that come to mind include striving to meet the expectations of others; engaging in activities that are more busyness then have an actual purpose; and repetitive prayer and Bible reading with no real faith or concern for what God truly has for us.

Striving to meet the expectations of others can be an exhausting, futile attempt. We are to serve those around us. This is clear in the Word of God. But it is also clear that we have only one master and that is God. It is He that we are to please. The apostle Paul addressed this topic. “Now am I trying to win the favor of men, or of God? Do I seek to please men? If I were still seeking popularity with men, I should not be a bond servant of Christ (the Messiah).” (Galatians 1:10 AMP) We are not accountable to other people because we are servants of God. “Who are you to pass judgment on and censure another’s household servant? It is before his own master that he stands or falls. And he shall stand and be upheld, for the Master (the Lord) is mighty to support him and make him stand.” (Romans 14:4 AMP) We do not have to strive to make others happy if we are doing what God directs. He is the only one to please and He is happy with His faithful servants.

Busyness is a common thief in our society. It disguises itself as necessary work. Jesus addressed a very hardworking Martha in this way. “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]a few things. Mary has chosen the good portion [^[b]that which is to her advantage], which shall not be taken away from her.”(Luke 10:41-42 AMP) We can also get caught up doing what we believe we must do without ever consulting the Lord. This is not the type of sacrifice that He wants from His children. We must listen so we can obey. “Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice,” (1 Samuel 15:22b AMP)

Prayer and Bible study, done simply as a duty, does not have the deep, pleasing aroma that true fellowship with God offers. We must come with a desire to get to know God better and believe that He will act according to His Word.  “But without faith it is impossible to please and be satisfactory to Him. For whoever would come near to God must [necessarily] believe that God exists and that He is the rewarder of those who earnestly and diligently seek Him [out].” (Hebrews 11:6 AMP) Time with God must be initiated by love and a desire to know and trust Him more. Genuine prayer and study are real communication with the Lord.

Jesus has called us to follow Him. “Come after Me [as disciples—letting Me be your Guide], follow Me,” (Matthew 4:19a AMP) He also promised us rest. “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest. [I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls.]” (Matthew 11:28 AMP) The Lord never intended for us to live hard lives that are going nowhere. He does not want us striving to be what we, or anyone else, think we should be. He wants us on the path He sets.

“Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding.  In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6 AMP)

 There is a path the Lord wants each of us to walk down.  This path contains genuine service to the Lord.  We are to receive direction from Him and follow where He leads. Then we will always be in His presence and can walk purposefully in joy. “You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy, at Your right hand there are pleasures forevermore.” (Psalm 16:11 AMP)

The answer to the question, “Where are you going?” will be this, “I’m following the path the Lord has planned and He walks beside me.”

 So do not walk for the sake of walking? Get off the treadmill and walk with purpose on your God designed path. He will be with you every step.