It's not about me.
Monday, August 20, 2012
Lots of people I love are facing surgeries this week. It's hard not to be anxious or worried, but what gets us through these scary times is knowing God is in control. Today, I'm praying for each of my friends, trusting God to take care of them and bring them through in victory. I love them so much, but HE loves them even more. I know I can trust Him to take very good care of my friends.
At times like this, when the mountain in front of us seems so high and so tough to climb, I can't help but think of how often I stress over things that don't really matter at all. This is a devotional I posted last year. Hope it will remind us all to keep our eyes on the big picture and not to sweat the small stuff.
I'm not sweating the small stuff!
Philippians 4:8-9
Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. 9 The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.
Happy thoughts make my day better. I feel more confident, more capable, more satisfied when I think on things that are honorable, right, pure, lovely and of good repute. Things that are excellent and worthy of praise - these are the things God tells us to dwell on. That's where we will find peace, even when everything in our lives is going crazy and feels out of control.
I stumbled onto this song by Francesca Battistelli and it made me smile. I can relate to every line. I can get stressed out over the smallest things. There's a lesson in the song. I hope I can remember it today.
http://youtu.be/pqqdA8LHN7I - This is the Stuff - Francesca Battistelli
I lost my keys
in the great unknown
and call me please
'Cuz I can't find my phone
This is the stuff that drives me crazy
This is the stuff that's getting to me lately
In the middle of my little mess
I forget how big I'm blessed
This is the stuff that gets under my skin
But I gotta trust You know exactly what You're doing
It might not be what I would choose
But this is the stuff You use
45 in a 35
Sirens and fines while I'm running behind
Whoa
This is the stuff that drives me crazy
This is the stuff that's getting to me lately
In the middle of my little mess
I forget how big I'm
is the stuff that gets under my skin
But I gotta trust You know exactly what You're doing
It might not be what I would choose
But this is the stuff You use
So break me of impatience
Conquer my frustrations
I've got a new appreciation
It's not the end of the world
Oh Oh Oh
This is the stuff that drives me crazy
This is the stuff
Someone save me
In the middle of my little mess
I forget how big I'm blessed
This is the stuff that gets under my skin
And I've gotta trust You know exactly what You're doing
It might not be what I would choose
But this is the stuff
You use
Oh Oh Oh Oh
This is the stuff You use.
I can let myself get bogged down in the little things that drive me crazy. The more I focus on those things, the larger they become in my mind. But God has given me a great tool to handle those kinds of thoughts. He says "take each thought captive to the obedience of Christ". I don't have to let my whole day be ruined because traffic on Highway 80 was stopped this morning, and Tyler was 40 min. late to school! = )
2 Corinthians 10:4-5
for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses. 5 We are destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ,
I can "capture the thought". Instead of pounding on the steering wheel and getting angry about something I cannot change, I can use that time to count my blessings. I can use that time to pray. I can redeem that bad traffic situation if I make the decision to just "capture the thought".
When I have a negative thought, I can ask myself, "is this a thought that honors God?" If it's not God honoring, then I better not dwell on it.
I love Facebook. It's a wonderful way to stay connnected to family and friends. I can "check in" each day and see how everyone is doing, and see what's going on in their lives. I've gotten reconnected with friends from school and stayed connected with friends and family who have moved away. What a blessing Facebook can be!
But just like God can take the worst things and use them for good, the Enemy can take a good thing and use it for evil.
I tend to be a "Pollyanna" - the dictionary defines that as "A person regarded as being foolishly or blindly optimistic. " I confess! I do try to see the glass as "half full" as opposed to "half empty". So it bothers me to see Facebook postings that seem to dwell on the negative. = ( I can watch a negative post become like a snowball rolling down hill. It gathers more and more size and speed as it rolls down, down, down... Everyone has something to add to the negativity. I don't like that. My "pollyanna" heart yearns for someone to break up that snowball so that it doesn't do any damage to people who might be in it's path. Sometimes, a brave soul steps up and tries to defuse the negative. I can't tell you how refreshing it is to see that one little positive comment in the middle of all the negative. It's like a beam of light shining in the darkness of the moment, melting that snowball.
There's a saying "what you feed grows and what you starve dies". If I "feed" the negative thoughts in my head, before long they are not so little. I can get myself all worked up over the smallest thing.
But if I choose to think on my blessings, those good thoughts flood my mind and give me a much better attitude, and my day becomes much more pleasant and productive. Not only is my day better, my attitude can spill over into the lives of those around me.
Lots of my Facebook Friends use their "status" to share Scriptures and encouraging thoughts. I love that! Those postings bless my day. The negative postings... not so much of a blessing. = (
So today, I choose to be positive. I choose to dwell on God's blessings and not on my "lost keys".
There are much worse things happening in this world than my burning the casserole I had planned for dinner!
I'm blessed beyond measure! The little bumps along the way, well, I'll use them as reminders of all the times I have safe, smooth journeys without any bumps.
And what if the bumps God allows in my life are blessings in disguise? How many times have my "lost keys" kept me from being in the middle of an accident? That 5 extra minutes of searching for my keys may have saved me from a terrible wreck.
http://youtu.be/4mmgV6mPvb0 - Blessings - Laura Story
Holy Father, I'm so blessed to be Your child. You are so faithful. You are my Provider and Protector. You rescue me from my human weaknesses every day. Dear Father, thank You for loving me even when I have my little "pitty parties" and spend way too much time thinking about stuff that doesn't really matter. You give me everything I need, yet sometimes I complain that it's not enough. Please forgive me, LORD.
I forget how blessed I am just to be able to have a clean drink of water when I'm thirsty, or food on the table at every single meal. Thank You, God, for providing water and food for me.
Lord, when I see someone with a flat or stalled car on the side of the road, help me to remember the blessing of having a car that is reliable.
And when I wake up my son for school each day, remind me of the enormous blessing of having a healthy child.
Lord, I'm thankful for my job.
I'm thankful for a husband who still loves me after 25 years of marriage.
I'm thankful for my family and my friends.
Most of all, I'm thankful that You love me so much that You sent Your only Son to save me.
So today, Lord, if my computer crashes, if I misplace my keys, if my car runs out of gas, or some other annoying little thing happens, help me to remember all my blessings instead of dwelling on the little negatives. I don't want to be a complainer, Lord. I don't want to be a snowball of negativity. Instead, I want to be full of gratitude and thanksgiving for all my blessings!
Lord, please help me not to let annoying stuff take all my attention away from my many blessings. When I'm tempted to give in to the negativity, show me Your truth. I'm loved by the Creator of the Universe. That blessing by itself cancels out all the bad stuff.
In the Blessed Name of Jesus I pray. This day is for Your Glory! Amen.
P.S. I had this devotional almost completed but before I could proofread and send it out, I had to stop and take Tyler to school. About 10 minutes into our 35 minute trip, traffic came to a complete stop! It took almost an hour longer to get school than it normally takes.
Hmmm.... maybe that was a test for me. Thankfully, I had just been focusing on not sweating the small stuff, and I used the time to thank God for having a sense of humor. = )
FREEDOM
http://youtu.be/VaVg0cWkgAw - Voice of Truth - Casting Crowns
Oh,what I would do to have
the kind of faith it takes
To climb out of this boat I'm in
Onto the crashing waves
To step out of my comfort zone
Into the realm of the unknown
Where Jesus is,
And he's holding out his hand
But the waves are calling out my name
and they laugh at me
Reminding me of all the times
I've tried before and failed
The waves they keep on telling me
time and time again
"Boy, you'll never win,
You you'll never win
But the Voice of truth tells me a different story
the Voice of truth says "do not be afraid!"
and the Voice of truth says "this is for My glory"
Out of all the voices calling out to me
I will choose to listen and believe the Voice of truth
Oh, what I would do
to have the kind of strength it takes
To stand before a giant
with just a sling and a stone
Surrounded by the sound
of a thousand warriors
shaking in their armor
Wishing they'd have had the strength to stand
But the giant's calling out
my name and he laughs at me
Reminding me of all the times
I've tried before and failed
The giant keeps on telling me
time and time again
"Boy you'll never win,
you'll never win."
But the voice of truth tells me a different story
the Voice of truth says "do not be afraid!"
and the Voice of truth says "this is for My glory"
Out of all the voices calling out to me
I will choose to listen and believe the Voice of truth
But the stone was just the right size
to put the giant on the ground
and the waves they don't seem so high
from on top of them looking down
I will soar with the wings of eagles
when I stop and listen to the sound of Jesus
singing over me
But the Voice of truth tells me a different story
The Voice of truth says "do not be afraid!"
And the Voice of truth says "this is for my glory"
Out of all the voices calling out to me (calling out to me)
I will choose to listen and believe (I will choose to listen and believe)
I will choose to listen and believe the Voice of truth
I will listen and believe
I will listen and believe the Voice of truth
I will listen and believe
'Cause Jesus you are the Voice of truth
And I will listen to you.. oh you are the Voice of truth
Charles Stanley was talking about Freedom - living in freedom, not letting ourselves be bound by the chains of Satan's lies and deceit. Today, I want to share some of his insight.
So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, “If you abide in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” John 8:31-32
What is the truth? And how can I know it?
The truth is the Word of God. I can know the truth by reading, studying, meditating on Scripture, memorizing, asking Him to write His Word on my heart, taking each scripture and pondering over how it applies in my life.
Jesus says "If you continue (abide) in My word" - how do we continue in His Word?
It's not just reading a chapter in the bible at night before I fall asleep. It's being intentional about spending time with Jesus, letting His words fill my heart. When I abide or continue in His Word, it's constantly on my mind. I allow Him to fill my brain with His Truth, and when I do that, there's simply no room for the lies of the Enemy.
Satan wants me to feel inadequate, depressed, discouraged, alone, helpless, hopeless, useless, defeated. But when I abide in God's Truth, I am no longer bound by Satan's chains - his lies and deception are designed to destroy my walk, to render me ineffective for the Kingdom. John 10:10 - The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.
What happens when I think the way Satan wants me to think rather than the way God wants me to think?
I become trapped, locked up in a prison of deception. Nothing makes the Enemy happier than to immobilize a believer. But Christ has given me freedom from this prison.
When I spend time reading, studying the Bible, listening and concentrating on each verse, asking God to reveal how each passage applies in my life, memorizing, meditating on His Word, searching for His truths so that I don't just "hear" His Word, but I listen with a sincere desire to obey what He says - that's abiding in His Word.
And when I abide in His Word, I come to know the truth about who I am, my position in Christ and my inheritance in Christ.
My Position - I am in Christ. I am His ambassador to the world.
Galatians 3:27-29 - And all who have been united with Christ in baptism have put on Christ, like putting on new clothes. 28 There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And now that you belong to Christ, you are the true children of Abraham. You are his heirs, and God’s promise to Abraham belongs to you.
2 Corinthians 5:20-21
Who am I? I am a child of my Heavenly Father who loves me beyond my greatest imagination.
Romans 8:14-16 - For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.” 16 For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children.
My Position in Christ? I share an inheritance with Christ. Eternity with my Father.
1 Peter 1:3-5 - 3 All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is by his great mercy that we have been born again, because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Now we live with great expectation, 4 and we have a priceless inheritance—an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. 5 And through your faith, God is protecting you by his power until you receive this salvation, which is ready to be revealed on the last day for all to see.
God not only has an inheritance for me - Eternal life with Him - He has sealed me with the Holy Spirit, who lives in me, giving me strength and power to face any challenge.
2 Corinthians 1:21-22 - 21 It is God who enables us, along with you, to stand firm for Christ. He has commissioned us, 22 and he has identified us as his own by placing the Holy Spirit in our hearts as the first installment that guarantees everything he has promised us.
Ephesians 3:16-17 - I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. 17 Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong.
Luke 12:30-31 - 30 These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers all over the world, but your Father already knows your needs. 31 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need.
If I abide in these Truths and claim them every day as my inheritance in Christ, I will be free from the chains that Satan uses to bind me, I can reject those lies and live in freedom, because my thoughts and y heart are constantly on His Word.
The mighty Power of God resides in each believer. His Divine Power works on my behalf in every struggle or challenge I face. I am a child of Almighty God, Creator of the Universe. What can I ever face that is too hard for Him?
Whom then shall I fear?
Holy Father, You have given me freedom in Christ. You've given me a new identity - I am Your child! You've made me an ambassador for Christ, to be His representative on earth to those who are lost. Thank You for putting Your Holy Spirit in me, and providing me with everything I need for every challenge I might face. Lord, please remind me who I am. That I belong to You and my freedom was purchased by the blood of Your precious Son. I am free indeed. Help me to hear Your voice of truth and quickly recognize and reject the lies that the Enemy throws at me every day. You created me, Father, and I am who You say I am. I have value because I am Your special possession, created in Your imagine. You have a purpose and a plan designed just for me. I want to honor You with my life and through Your strength, I can do anything You put before me.
I will not fear for I know You will be with me, always.
Thank You so much for forgiving me when I fail to abide in Your Word. Lord, please write it on my heart, give me wisdom and understanding so that I can walk according to Your truth, and live in the Victory Christ has given me. It's in His precious Name that I pray. Amen.
http://youtu.be/trUI1wtIIFk - Word of God Speak - MercyMe
I'm finding myself at a loss for words
And the funny thing is it's okay
The last thing I need is to be heard
But to hear what You would say
[Chorus:]
Word of God speak
Would You pour down like rain
Washing my eyes to see
Your majesty
To be still and know
That You're in this place
Please let me stay and rest
In Your holiness
Word of God speak
I'm finding myself in the midst of You
Beyond the music, beyond the noise
All that I need is to be with You
And in the quiet hear Your voice
[Chorus 2x]
I'm finding myself at a loss for words
And the funny thing is it's okay
Monday, August 6, 2012
"They honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me."
Take a little stroll with me, if you dare, through the book of Malachi. It's really a love story. God is pleading with His chosen ones to come back. He so longs for them to turn back to Him so that He can bless them and keep them safe. But they are clueless! "What did I do wrong?" they said. How can they not see? The old testament is full of the Israelites falling over and over again. Surely...
But wait. Maybe I'm not so unlike those Israelites. I get so caught up in my own life - "me, me, me, stuff", that I don't always see how far I'm slipping away from my Lord. I let so much meaningless stuff crowds Him out of my life. "I just don't have time!" LORD forgive me!
If we're honest, I think most of us would have to agree that we're not much better than those awful Israelites. we, too, "honor Him with our lips but our hearts are far from Him."
Malachi is a love letter to me. Do you see your name written in those pages, too?
This video is not easy to watch. But it helps me to remember just how much HE loves me. The Israelites asked "How have you loved us?" Well, they may not have got it, but I know how He's loved me. I can't watch this video without feeling a little ashamed at how easy I let things push Him out of my life.
http://youtu.be/e4uZn5gLIY8 - Remember Me - Mark Schultz
Malachi is a very short book. It's the last book of the old testament. Once that book was written, 400 years went by before God spoke to His people again. As I read Malachi, I thought of how thankless the Israelites were. God had done so much for His "chosen people" and they repeatedly turned their backs on Him. But is there a message there for me, too?
Malachi is a dialogue between the Lord Almighty and His people. Listen to the first thing that comes out of His mouth:
"I have loved you deeply, " says the Lord.
Their answer: "How have you loved us?"
I cannot imagine saying that to God! After all He had done for them, they dared to question His love, His provision?
He loved them all right. Just like He loves me even when I dishonor Him. He loves me when I fail to obey His directions. He loves me enough to discipline me, purifying my heart of anything that would take me away from Him. Sometimes, that process is not fun. I don't necessarily like being "refined", but I'm glad He loves me enough to stay with me during those times when I take my eyes of Jesus.
Malachi describes Israel's unfaithfulness and how they are worthy of punishment. God has had enough of their disobedience and the day of judgment is coming. As he offers this final warning, once again He provides an option; one more time He gives them hope. If they will just return to Him, He will return to them.
Malachi 4:2 - "But for you who fear my name, the Sun of Righteousness will rise with healing in His wings. And you will go free, leaping with joy like calves let out to pasture."
Malachi gives us some guidelines for honoring our commitment to God. He deserves my very best - not the left overs. He sacrificed His own Son for me. Living for Him seems like a reasonable thing to do, such a small "sacrifice".
Malachi 1:7-10 - "You have despised my name by offering defiled sacrifices."
The Israelites were offering lame, blind, diseased animals to God as a sacrifice. This worship was no longer from their hearts. They were just going through the motions of "offering a sacrifice to the Lord". It meant nothing to them.
How do I do that? I give God my left over time, my left over money (at least part of the left overs), and I don't give Him a place of honor and respect in my daily life. When I live like that, so unaware and unconcerned about all He's done for me, I dishonor Him. And He wants no part of my "sacrifices". He doesn't need my left-overs.
Romans 12:1 - And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him.
Isaiah 29:13 - And so the Lord says,“These people say they are mine.They honor me with their lips,but their hearts are far from me.And their worship of me is nothing but man-made rules learned by rote.
How do I change my behavior? What can I do to show God the respect He deserves? I can choose each day to live the way He wants me to live. I can listen to His commands and guidance and obey Him out of trust. I know who He is. I know His love for me is immeasurable. I know He has saved me from my sins. I'll live for Him because He died for me.
Malachi 2 - They lived by their own rules - marrying women who worshipped idols. The men divorced their wives for no better reason than they wanted someone else.
15 Didn’t the Lord make you one with your wife? In body and spirit you are his. And what does he want? Godly children from your union. So guard your heart; remain loyal to the wife of your youth. 16 “For I hate divorce!” says the Lord, the God of Israel. “To divorce your wife is to overwhelm her with cruelty,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. “So guard your heart; do not be unfaithful to your wife.”
God hates divorce. Marriage is a holy covenant and this bonding relationship was to illustrate the union of God with His chosen people. Instead, the Israelite men were disloyal to their wives and ignored the vows they had made before God. God's intention was for these marriages to result in godly children who would love the Lord. But how could the children learn faithfulness from a unfaithful father?
If I walk away from my marriage, not only am I dishonoring my spouse, I'm dishonoring God. "So guard yourself; always remain loyal to your wife." means to have the same commitment to marriage that God has to His promises for His people.
God is so good and kind. Divorce is not the unforgivable sin. I'm so thankful for His mercy. After having gone through a divorce, I know too well why God hates it. How do I show God that I'm sorry for my sins? I confess them to Him, and I do my best not to make those same mistakes again. I commit my marriage and my heart to the Lord.
Malachi 3 - God called the Israelites to repent.
"Now return to me, and I will return to you, " says the Lord Almighty." The Israelites had lived life their own way for so long, they couldn't even see their sins. "How can we return when we never went away?" they said. "What do you mean? How have we spoken against you? What's the use of serving God? What have we gained by obeying His commands or by trying to show the Lord Almighty that we are sorry for our sins?"
They were selfish - always expecting God to give them something. They had a sense of entitlement - not unlike ours sometimes. When we pray, we expect God to give us our heart's desire. But shouldn't we all serve God, not for what we can get, but because He is God and worthy of all our praise and worship? Shouldn't our heart's desire yield to be His Will- however that needs to look?
Malachi 3:8-12 - “Should people cheat God? Yet you have cheated me!
“But you ask, ‘What do you mean? When did we ever cheat you?’
“You have cheated me of the tithes and offerings due to me. 9 You are under a curse, for your whole nation has been cheating me. 10 Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, “I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test! 11 Your crops will be abundant, for I will guard them from insects and disease. Your grapes will not fall from the vine before they are ripe,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. 12 “Then all nations will call you blessed, for your land will be such a delight,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies.
One of the reasons for tithing was to provide support for the tribe of Levi. The Levites were assigned the role of taking care of the tabernacle/temple, serving God and ministering spiritual help and direction to the Israelites. When the people didn't tithe, there was no money for the Levites to live on. So the Levites were forced to take jobs to earn a living, which caused them to neglect their God-given duties and responsibilities. They no longer provided spiritual leadership and the people looked to their own wisdom - choosing to worship idols.
How can I avoid this pitfall? God doesn't ask me to give what I don't have. But HE has given me so much - He has given me all I do have. He wants me to give from my heart - not because I have to.
2 Corinthians 9:6-8
6 Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. 7 You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” 8 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others.
We get hung up on the 10% tithe but the Israelites really ended up giving much more than 10% when you think of all the giving they were required to do. And 10% percent for someone on a very low income is much harder to give than for someone with a six figure income. Don't you agree? Yet the widow gave her last mite. It was all she had and I'll bet she had the right heart about it, too.
God says it's not how much I give, but the condition of my heart when I give. I give because of how much He has given me. And if I really think about it, it's all His anyway.
God was pleading with the Israelites and He pleads with me, too. "Come back to me and I'll come back to you." If I don't see what I've done wrong, or if I chose to disobey, because He is my Father, He will purify my heart.
Malachi 3:1-5 - “Look! I am sending my messenger, and he will prepare the way before me. Then the Lord you are seeking will suddenly come to his Temple. The messenger of the covenant, whom you look for so eagerly, is surely coming,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies.
2 “But who will be able to endure it when he comes? Who will be able to stand and face him when he appears? For he will be like a blazing fire that refines metal, or like a strong soap that bleaches clothes. 3 He will sit like a refiner of silver, burning away the dross. He will purify the Levites, refining them like gold and silver, so that they may once again offer acceptable sacrifices to the Lord. 4 Then once more the Lord will accept the offerings brought to him by the people of Judah and Jerusalem, as he did in the past.
In the process of refining metals, the raw metal is heated with fire until it melts. The impurities separate from it and rise to the surface. They are skimmed off, leaving the pure metal. Without this heating and melting, there could be no purifying. As the impurities are skimmed off the top, the reflection of the worker appears in the clear, pure surface. As we are purified by God, His reflection in our life will become more and more clear to those around us. (Life Application Bible)
Sometimes that process is painful, but the results are worth the pain. God has a purpose for me. Sometimes, I get so caught up in my own desires. I try to do things my way, with my own understanding instead of looking to God. Then I fall. But God is so good. He is always ready to reach down and pick me up. All I have to do is return to Him. He is so worthy of all my praise and thanksgiving. He deserves all honor and glory.
Father, I want people to see Your character and love reflected in my life. I want to be a living sacrifice that brings You honor. You bless me over and over again, and I worship You. I honor You because You are my Father who loved so much You sent Your only Son to die for me so that I could live. If that were the only blessing I ever received, it would be more than enough. I'm sorry for all the times I've dishonored You by living life my way. Please forgive me. Purify my heart so that I will be more like Jesus. It's in His Name that I pray. Amen.
http://youtu.be/9Y8zP34AhuU - Refiners Fire
Purify my heart
Let me be as gold and precious silver
Purify my heart
Let me be as gold, pure gold
Refiner's fire
My heart's one desire
Is to be holy
Set apart for You, Lord
I choose to be holy
Set apart for You, my Master
Ready to do Your will
Purify my heart
Cleanse me from within
And make me holy
Purify my heart
Cleanse me from my sin
Deep within
Take a little stroll with me, if you dare, through the book of Malachi. It's really a love story. God is pleading with His chosen ones to come back. He so longs for them to turn back to Him so that He can bless them and keep them safe. But they are clueless! "What did I do wrong?" they said. How can they not see? The old testament is full of the Israelites falling over and over again. Surely...
But wait. Maybe I'm not so unlike those Israelites. I get so caught up in my own life - "me, me, me, stuff", that I don't always see how far I'm slipping away from my Lord. I let so much meaningless stuff crowds Him out of my life. "I just don't have time!" LORD forgive me!
If we're honest, I think most of us would have to agree that we're not much better than those awful Israelites. we, too, "honor Him with our lips but our hearts are far from Him."
Malachi is a love letter to me. Do you see your name written in those pages, too?
This video is not easy to watch. But it helps me to remember just how much HE loves me. The Israelites asked "How have you loved us?" Well, they may not have got it, but I know how He's loved me. I can't watch this video without feeling a little ashamed at how easy I let things push Him out of my life.
http://youtu.be/e4uZn5gLIY8 - Remember Me - Mark Schultz
Malachi is a very short book. It's the last book of the old testament. Once that book was written, 400 years went by before God spoke to His people again. As I read Malachi, I thought of how thankless the Israelites were. God had done so much for His "chosen people" and they repeatedly turned their backs on Him. But is there a message there for me, too?
Malachi is a dialogue between the Lord Almighty and His people. Listen to the first thing that comes out of His mouth:
"I have loved you deeply, " says the Lord.
Their answer: "How have you loved us?"
I cannot imagine saying that to God! After all He had done for them, they dared to question His love, His provision?
He loved them all right. Just like He loves me even when I dishonor Him. He loves me when I fail to obey His directions. He loves me enough to discipline me, purifying my heart of anything that would take me away from Him. Sometimes, that process is not fun. I don't necessarily like being "refined", but I'm glad He loves me enough to stay with me during those times when I take my eyes of Jesus.
Malachi describes Israel's unfaithfulness and how they are worthy of punishment. God has had enough of their disobedience and the day of judgment is coming. As he offers this final warning, once again He provides an option; one more time He gives them hope. If they will just return to Him, He will return to them.
Malachi 4:2 - "But for you who fear my name, the Sun of Righteousness will rise with healing in His wings. And you will go free, leaping with joy like calves let out to pasture."
Malachi gives us some guidelines for honoring our commitment to God. He deserves my very best - not the left overs. He sacrificed His own Son for me. Living for Him seems like a reasonable thing to do, such a small "sacrifice".
Malachi 1:7-10 - "You have despised my name by offering defiled sacrifices."
The Israelites were offering lame, blind, diseased animals to God as a sacrifice. This worship was no longer from their hearts. They were just going through the motions of "offering a sacrifice to the Lord". It meant nothing to them.
How do I do that? I give God my left over time, my left over money (at least part of the left overs), and I don't give Him a place of honor and respect in my daily life. When I live like that, so unaware and unconcerned about all He's done for me, I dishonor Him. And He wants no part of my "sacrifices". He doesn't need my left-overs.
Romans 12:1 - And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him.
Isaiah 29:13 - And so the Lord says,“These people say they are mine.They honor me with their lips,but their hearts are far from me.And their worship of me is nothing but man-made rules learned by rote.
How do I change my behavior? What can I do to show God the respect He deserves? I can choose each day to live the way He wants me to live. I can listen to His commands and guidance and obey Him out of trust. I know who He is. I know His love for me is immeasurable. I know He has saved me from my sins. I'll live for Him because He died for me.
Malachi 2 - They lived by their own rules - marrying women who worshipped idols. The men divorced their wives for no better reason than they wanted someone else.
15 Didn’t the Lord make you one with your wife? In body and spirit you are his. And what does he want? Godly children from your union. So guard your heart; remain loyal to the wife of your youth. 16 “For I hate divorce!” says the Lord, the God of Israel. “To divorce your wife is to overwhelm her with cruelty,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. “So guard your heart; do not be unfaithful to your wife.”
God hates divorce. Marriage is a holy covenant and this bonding relationship was to illustrate the union of God with His chosen people. Instead, the Israelite men were disloyal to their wives and ignored the vows they had made before God. God's intention was for these marriages to result in godly children who would love the Lord. But how could the children learn faithfulness from a unfaithful father?
If I walk away from my marriage, not only am I dishonoring my spouse, I'm dishonoring God. "So guard yourself; always remain loyal to your wife." means to have the same commitment to marriage that God has to His promises for His people.
God is so good and kind. Divorce is not the unforgivable sin. I'm so thankful for His mercy. After having gone through a divorce, I know too well why God hates it. How do I show God that I'm sorry for my sins? I confess them to Him, and I do my best not to make those same mistakes again. I commit my marriage and my heart to the Lord.
Malachi 3 - God called the Israelites to repent.
"Now return to me, and I will return to you, " says the Lord Almighty." The Israelites had lived life their own way for so long, they couldn't even see their sins. "How can we return when we never went away?" they said. "What do you mean? How have we spoken against you? What's the use of serving God? What have we gained by obeying His commands or by trying to show the Lord Almighty that we are sorry for our sins?"
They were selfish - always expecting God to give them something. They had a sense of entitlement - not unlike ours sometimes. When we pray, we expect God to give us our heart's desire. But shouldn't we all serve God, not for what we can get, but because He is God and worthy of all our praise and worship? Shouldn't our heart's desire yield to be His Will- however that needs to look?
Malachi 3:8-12 - “Should people cheat God? Yet you have cheated me!
“But you ask, ‘What do you mean? When did we ever cheat you?’
“You have cheated me of the tithes and offerings due to me. 9 You are under a curse, for your whole nation has been cheating me. 10 Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, “I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test! 11 Your crops will be abundant, for I will guard them from insects and disease. Your grapes will not fall from the vine before they are ripe,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies. 12 “Then all nations will call you blessed, for your land will be such a delight,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies.
One of the reasons for tithing was to provide support for the tribe of Levi. The Levites were assigned the role of taking care of the tabernacle/temple, serving God and ministering spiritual help and direction to the Israelites. When the people didn't tithe, there was no money for the Levites to live on. So the Levites were forced to take jobs to earn a living, which caused them to neglect their God-given duties and responsibilities. They no longer provided spiritual leadership and the people looked to their own wisdom - choosing to worship idols.
How can I avoid this pitfall? God doesn't ask me to give what I don't have. But HE has given me so much - He has given me all I do have. He wants me to give from my heart - not because I have to.
2 Corinthians 9:6-8
6 Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. 7 You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” 8 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others.
We get hung up on the 10% tithe but the Israelites really ended up giving much more than 10% when you think of all the giving they were required to do. And 10% percent for someone on a very low income is much harder to give than for someone with a six figure income. Don't you agree? Yet the widow gave her last mite. It was all she had and I'll bet she had the right heart about it, too.
God says it's not how much I give, but the condition of my heart when I give. I give because of how much He has given me. And if I really think about it, it's all His anyway.
God was pleading with the Israelites and He pleads with me, too. "Come back to me and I'll come back to you." If I don't see what I've done wrong, or if I chose to disobey, because He is my Father, He will purify my heart.
Malachi 3:1-5 - “Look! I am sending my messenger, and he will prepare the way before me. Then the Lord you are seeking will suddenly come to his Temple. The messenger of the covenant, whom you look for so eagerly, is surely coming,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies.
2 “But who will be able to endure it when he comes? Who will be able to stand and face him when he appears? For he will be like a blazing fire that refines metal, or like a strong soap that bleaches clothes. 3 He will sit like a refiner of silver, burning away the dross. He will purify the Levites, refining them like gold and silver, so that they may once again offer acceptable sacrifices to the Lord. 4 Then once more the Lord will accept the offerings brought to him by the people of Judah and Jerusalem, as he did in the past.
In the process of refining metals, the raw metal is heated with fire until it melts. The impurities separate from it and rise to the surface. They are skimmed off, leaving the pure metal. Without this heating and melting, there could be no purifying. As the impurities are skimmed off the top, the reflection of the worker appears in the clear, pure surface. As we are purified by God, His reflection in our life will become more and more clear to those around us. (Life Application Bible)
Sometimes that process is painful, but the results are worth the pain. God has a purpose for me. Sometimes, I get so caught up in my own desires. I try to do things my way, with my own understanding instead of looking to God. Then I fall. But God is so good. He is always ready to reach down and pick me up. All I have to do is return to Him. He is so worthy of all my praise and thanksgiving. He deserves all honor and glory.
Father, I want people to see Your character and love reflected in my life. I want to be a living sacrifice that brings You honor. You bless me over and over again, and I worship You. I honor You because You are my Father who loved so much You sent Your only Son to die for me so that I could live. If that were the only blessing I ever received, it would be more than enough. I'm sorry for all the times I've dishonored You by living life my way. Please forgive me. Purify my heart so that I will be more like Jesus. It's in His Name that I pray. Amen.
http://youtu.be/9Y8zP34AhuU - Refiners Fire
Purify my heart
Let me be as gold and precious silver
Purify my heart
Let me be as gold, pure gold
Refiner's fire
My heart's one desire
Is to be holy
Set apart for You, Lord
I choose to be holy
Set apart for You, my Master
Ready to do Your will
Purify my heart
Cleanse me from within
And make me holy
Purify my heart
Cleanse me from my sin
Deep within
Saturday, July 21, 2012
Through it all, I learned to trust in GOD.
http://youtu.be/Bo-mp_m3nj8 - Through it All - Selah
John 16:31-33 NLT
31 Jesus asked, “Do you finally believe? 32 But the time is coming—indeed it’s here now—when you will be scattered, each one going his own way, leaving me alone. Yet I am not alone because the Father is with me. 33 I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
This has been a tough week for our Country. Once again, one lost young man decided to gain notoriety through a senseless and brutal attack on others.
I read this article from GotQuestions.org and thought it was worth sharing. The greatest comfort we can have is knowing that Jesus told us these terrible things would happen. He wanted us to know that as evil as this world can be, HE has already won the battle for us. We live victory - no matter what horrible circumstances we may encounter, because we have Christ. Through His sacrifice, we have been given an amazing future with Him for all eternity.
Psalm 56:11 NLT
in God I trust; I will not fear.What can man do to me?
Question: "Is there meaning in tragedy?"
Answer: When tragedy strikes, it is common for people to ask, “What does this mean?”
When we witness some disaster or mass murder, there is a natural feeling that what has happened should not have happened. This innate sense of “wrongness” is a clue to meaning in these events. When we look to find meaning in tragedy, we must have the right perspective. We need to approach the question in a way that allows for a coherent answer, and this is only possible through a Christian worldview. Because God instills meaning into every moment and event in history, through Him we can begin to find meaning in suffering. The nature of this world lends itself to tragic events. Fortunately, God speaks to us, so that we can find not only meaning, but salvation and relief from the sufferings of the world.
When studying physical motion, it is crucial to understand perspective. Speed and acceleration are only meaningful in relation to some other object; this object is the reference point. The way in which the reference point moves affects our perception. The same is true in our sense of right and wrong. For concepts of good, bad, right, wrong, or tragedy to be meaningful, they have to be anchored to a reference point that does not change or move. The only valid reference point for these issues is God. The very fact that we consider a mass murder wrong strongly supports the idea of God as the reference point for our sense of good and evil. Without God, even the events we consider the most tragic are no more meaningful than anything else. We have to understand the nature of this world and our relationship to God in order to draw any meaning at all from the things we see.
God infuses every moment and every event with meaning and gives us confidence that He understands what we are going through. When Jesus instituted communion, He tied the past, present, and future together. 1 Corinthians 11:26 says, “For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup (the present), you proclaim the Lord's death (the past) until He comes (the future).” God’s knowledge of all events means nothing is insignificant to Him. If God knows when a sparrow falls, He certainly knows when we face tragedy (Matthew 10:29-31). In fact, God assured us that we would face trouble in this world (John 16:33) and that He has experienced our struggles personally (Hebrews 2:14-18; Hebrews 4:15).
Hebrews 2:11-18
11 So now Jesus and the ones he makes holy have the same Father. That is why Jesus is not ashamed to call them his brothers and sisters. 12 For he said to God,
16 We also know that the Son did not come to help angels; he came to help the descendants of Abraham. 17 Therefore, it was necessary for him to be made in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters, so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. Then he could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people. 18 Since he himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested.
Hebrews 4:15 NLT
This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin.
(Exodus 20:13; Romans 1:18-21).
Romans 1:18-24
21 Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn’t worship him as God or even give him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. As a result, their minds became dark and confused. 22 Claiming to be wise, they instead became utter fools. 23 And instead of worshiping the glorious, ever-living God, they worshiped idols made to look like mere people and birds and animals and reptiles.
24 So God abandoned them to do whatever shameful things their hearts desired. As a result, they did vile and degrading things with each other’s bodies. 25 They traded the truth about God for a lie. So they worshiped and served the things God created instead of the Creator himself, who is worthy of eternal praise! Amen. 26 That is why God abandoned them to their shameful desires.
When we look to find meaning in such an event, we have to understand why this world is the way it is. The hardship of this world was originally caused by mankind’s sin (Romans 5:12), which is always a matter of choice (1 Corinthians 10:13). While God is perfectly capable of stopping tragedies before they begin, sometimes He chooses not to. While we may not know why, we do know that He is perfect, just, and holy, and so is His will. Also, the suffering we experience in this world does three things. It leads us to seek God, it develops our spiritual strength, and it increases our desire for heaven (Romans 8:18-25; James 1:2-3; Titus 2:13; 1 Peter 1:7).
In the garden of Eden, God spoke to Adam and communicated in clear and direct ways, not in abstract concepts. God speaks to us today in the same way. In some ways, this is the most important meaning to be found in any tragedy. Tragic events demonstrate much of their meaning in the way we react to them. C.S. Lewis said, “God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but shouts in our pains. It is his megaphone to rouse a deaf world.” This does not mean that God causes tragedy, but that He uses our reaction to tragedy to speak to us. Tragic events remind us not only that we live in an imperfect and fallen world, but that there is a God who loves us and wants something better for us than the world has to offer.
Recommended Resource: Is God Really in Control? Trusting God in a World of Terrorism, Tsunamis, and Personal Tragedy by Jerry Bridges.
Matthew 10:29-31 NLT
29 What is the price of two sparrows—one copper coin? But not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. 30 And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. 31 So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.
John 16:33 NLT
33 I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
Romans 5:12 Holman Christian Standard
12 Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, in this way death spread to all men, because all sinned.
James 1:2-3 Holman Christian Standard
2 Consider it a great joy, my brothers, whenever you experience various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.
1 Peter 1 Holman Christian Standard
3 Praise the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. According to His great mercy, He has given us a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead 4 and into an inheritance that is imperishable, uncorrupted, and unfading, kept in heaven for you. 5 You are being protected by God’s power through faith for a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 You rejoice in this, though now for a short time you have had to struggle in various trials 7 so that the genuineness of your faith —more valuable than gold, which perishes though refined by fire —may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 8 You love Him, though you have not seen Him. And though not seeing Him now, you believe in Him and rejoice with inexpressible and glorious joy, 9 because you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.
As the Lord leads, please pray:
For the families who are grieving the inexplicable loss of their loved ones.
For those who have been injured, and the medical teams attending them.
For the family of James Holmes.
For law enforcement as they work to disarm the explosive-laden apartment of Holmes, and search his personal effects for some explanation of the shooting.
http://youtu.be/Bo-mp_m3nj8 - Through it All - Selah
John 16:31-33 NLT
31 Jesus asked, “Do you finally believe? 32 But the time is coming—indeed it’s here now—when you will be scattered, each one going his own way, leaving me alone. Yet I am not alone because the Father is with me. 33 I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
This has been a tough week for our Country. Once again, one lost young man decided to gain notoriety through a senseless and brutal attack on others.
I read this article from GotQuestions.org and thought it was worth sharing. The greatest comfort we can have is knowing that Jesus told us these terrible things would happen. He wanted us to know that as evil as this world can be, HE has already won the battle for us. We live victory - no matter what horrible circumstances we may encounter, because we have Christ. Through His sacrifice, we have been given an amazing future with Him for all eternity.
Psalm 56:11 NLT
in God I trust; I will not fear.What can man do to me?
Question: "Is there meaning in tragedy?"
Answer: When tragedy strikes, it is common for people to ask, “What does this mean?”
When we witness some disaster or mass murder, there is a natural feeling that what has happened should not have happened. This innate sense of “wrongness” is a clue to meaning in these events. When we look to find meaning in tragedy, we must have the right perspective. We need to approach the question in a way that allows for a coherent answer, and this is only possible through a Christian worldview. Because God instills meaning into every moment and event in history, through Him we can begin to find meaning in suffering. The nature of this world lends itself to tragic events. Fortunately, God speaks to us, so that we can find not only meaning, but salvation and relief from the sufferings of the world.
When studying physical motion, it is crucial to understand perspective. Speed and acceleration are only meaningful in relation to some other object; this object is the reference point. The way in which the reference point moves affects our perception. The same is true in our sense of right and wrong. For concepts of good, bad, right, wrong, or tragedy to be meaningful, they have to be anchored to a reference point that does not change or move. The only valid reference point for these issues is God. The very fact that we consider a mass murder wrong strongly supports the idea of God as the reference point for our sense of good and evil. Without God, even the events we consider the most tragic are no more meaningful than anything else. We have to understand the nature of this world and our relationship to God in order to draw any meaning at all from the things we see.
God infuses every moment and every event with meaning and gives us confidence that He understands what we are going through. When Jesus instituted communion, He tied the past, present, and future together. 1 Corinthians 11:26 says, “For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup (the present), you proclaim the Lord's death (the past) until He comes (the future).” God’s knowledge of all events means nothing is insignificant to Him. If God knows when a sparrow falls, He certainly knows when we face tragedy (Matthew 10:29-31). In fact, God assured us that we would face trouble in this world (John 16:33) and that He has experienced our struggles personally (Hebrews 2:14-18; Hebrews 4:15).
Hebrews 2:11-18
11 So now Jesus and the ones he makes holy have the same Father. That is why Jesus is not ashamed to call them his brothers and sisters. 12 For he said to God,
“I will proclaim your name to my brothers and sisters.
I will praise you among your assembled people.”
I will praise you among your assembled people.”
13 He also said,
“I will put my trust in him,”
that is, “I and the children God has given me.”
that is, “I and the children God has given me.”
14 Because God’s children are human beings—made of flesh and blood—the Son also became flesh and blood. For only as a human being could he die, and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had the power of death. 15 Only in this way could he set free all who have lived their lives as slaves to the fear of dying.
16 We also know that the Son did not come to help angels; he came to help the descendants of Abraham. 17 Therefore, it was necessary for him to be made in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters, so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. Then he could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people. 18 Since he himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested.
Hebrews 4:15 NLT
This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin.
(Exodus 20:13; Romans 1:18-21).
Romans 1:18-24
18 But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who suppress the truth by their wickedness. 19 They know the truth about God because he has made it obvious to them. 20 For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.
21 Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn’t worship him as God or even give him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. As a result, their minds became dark and confused. 22 Claiming to be wise, they instead became utter fools. 23 And instead of worshiping the glorious, ever-living God, they worshiped idols made to look like mere people and birds and animals and reptiles.
24 So God abandoned them to do whatever shameful things their hearts desired. As a result, they did vile and degrading things with each other’s bodies. 25 They traded the truth about God for a lie. So they worshiped and served the things God created instead of the Creator himself, who is worthy of eternal praise! Amen. 26 That is why God abandoned them to their shameful desires.
When we look to find meaning in such an event, we have to understand why this world is the way it is. The hardship of this world was originally caused by mankind’s sin (Romans 5:12), which is always a matter of choice (1 Corinthians 10:13). While God is perfectly capable of stopping tragedies before they begin, sometimes He chooses not to. While we may not know why, we do know that He is perfect, just, and holy, and so is His will. Also, the suffering we experience in this world does three things. It leads us to seek God, it develops our spiritual strength, and it increases our desire for heaven (Romans 8:18-25; James 1:2-3; Titus 2:13; 1 Peter 1:7).
In the garden of Eden, God spoke to Adam and communicated in clear and direct ways, not in abstract concepts. God speaks to us today in the same way. In some ways, this is the most important meaning to be found in any tragedy. Tragic events demonstrate much of their meaning in the way we react to them. C.S. Lewis said, “God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our conscience, but shouts in our pains. It is his megaphone to rouse a deaf world.” This does not mean that God causes tragedy, but that He uses our reaction to tragedy to speak to us. Tragic events remind us not only that we live in an imperfect and fallen world, but that there is a God who loves us and wants something better for us than the world has to offer.
Recommended Resource: Is God Really in Control? Trusting God in a World of Terrorism, Tsunamis, and Personal Tragedy by Jerry Bridges.
Matthew 10:29-31 NLT
29 What is the price of two sparrows—one copper coin? But not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. 30 And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. 31 So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.
John 16:33 NLT
33 I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.”
Romans 5:12 Holman Christian Standard
12 Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, in this way death spread to all men, because all sinned.
James 1:2-3 Holman Christian Standard
2 Consider it a great joy, my brothers, whenever you experience various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.
1 Peter 1 Holman Christian Standard
3 Praise the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. According to His great mercy, He has given us a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead 4 and into an inheritance that is imperishable, uncorrupted, and unfading, kept in heaven for you. 5 You are being protected by God’s power through faith for a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 You rejoice in this, though now for a short time you have had to struggle in various trials 7 so that the genuineness of your faith —more valuable than gold, which perishes though refined by fire —may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 8 You love Him, though you have not seen Him. And though not seeing Him now, you believe in Him and rejoice with inexpressible and glorious joy, 9 because you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.
As the Lord leads, please pray:
For the families who are grieving the inexplicable loss of their loved ones.
For those who have been injured, and the medical teams attending them.
For the family of James Holmes.
For law enforcement as they work to disarm the explosive-laden apartment of Holmes, and search his personal effects for some explanation of the shooting.
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
The destination is worth it!
I was flipping through the channels and heard a talk show host make this statement:
"It's not the destination...it's the journey."
I thought to myself, "are you kidding me?" For Christians the Destination gives purpose to the journey! It's all about the Destination!!! To be Home with Jesus??? Of course that's what matters. Our journey should be purposeful and full of love and service towards others. God gives us opportunities to shine for Him along our road, but never doubt for once second, it is the destination that gives us hope and a reason for the journey.
http://youtu.be/YE4Yf4NkdrU - Long way Home - Steven Curtis Chapman
I just love this song by Steven Curtis Chapman! It reminds me that this journey we are on - bumps and all, is going to be so worth it!
Do you ever see someone who seems to be carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders, and you just can't understand how he keeps going? Sometimes it seems supernatural.
This life is full of struggles and suffering. All of us, sooner or later, will have to deal with something horrendous, and we'll get through it. We have no choice. But for a Christian, there's a difference. Yes, we still have to face the problems of this life, we still suffer, but God gives us a peace that comes from knowing we are never alone in our struggles. He is walking with us every step.
There is a difference between just surviving bad times and coming through those bad times in victory. A Christian uses those difficult times as a testimony to God's faithfulness. So even in the worst possible circumstances, others see strength that defies our circumstances. It's the strength that Christ provides.
No matter how tough things get, Christ has promised to give us everything we need to get through the crisis. He is ready to strengthen us, provide for us and give us His peace which is beyond our comprehension.
I love this passage in Philippians. Actually, the whole book of Philippians is a treasure chest of encouragement and hope - regardless of the circumstances we may be facing.
The bottom line - I'm not alone. My Father is the Creator of the Universe and He chose me to be His special possession. Now that's reason to rejoice always!
Philippians 4
4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your graciousness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. 6 Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any moral excellence and if there is any praise—dwell on these things. 9 Do what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.
15 And you Philippians know that in the early days of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving except you alone. 16 For even in Thessalonica you sent gifts for my need several times. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the profit that is increasing to your account. 18 But I have received everything in full, and I have an abundance. I am fully supplied, having received from Epaphroditus what you provided—a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. 19 And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. 20 Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.
from Belief Changers:
Today, I need the peace that only Your presence brings. With situations and circumstances that create concern, I ask You to be the Peace that passes all understanding. I don't have to know the all the details, I only need to know You're here. Lord let Your peace prevail in my home, at work, wherever you lead me, let love and grace fill the atmosphere. I pray for this nation as well as every nation of the earth. Let Your word go forth and draw men, women and children to You, wonderful Savior! Amen & So be it!
http://youtu.be/1vmY2ztb5xc - How great the Father's Love - Selah
How Deep The Father's Love For Us
by Selah
from the album "You Deliver Me"
Lyrics:
How deep the Father's love for us
How vast beyond all measure
That He should give His only Son
To make a wretch His treasure
How great the pain of searing loss
The Father turns His face away
As wounds which mar the Chosen One
Bring many sons to glory
Behold the Man upon the cross
Ashamed to hear my mocking voice
Call out among the scoffers
It was my sin that kept Him there
Until it was accomplished
His dying breath has brought me life
I know that it is finished
I will not boast in anything
No gifts, no power, no wisdom
But I will boast in Jesus Christ
His death and resurrection
Why should I gain from His reward?
I cannot give an answer
But this I know with all my heart
His wounds have paid my ransom [x2]
I was flipping through the channels and heard a talk show host make this statement:
"It's not the destination...it's the journey."
I thought to myself, "are you kidding me?" For Christians the Destination gives purpose to the journey! It's all about the Destination!!! To be Home with Jesus??? Of course that's what matters. Our journey should be purposeful and full of love and service towards others. God gives us opportunities to shine for Him along our road, but never doubt for once second, it is the destination that gives us hope and a reason for the journey.
http://youtu.be/YE4Yf4NkdrU - Long way Home - Steven Curtis Chapman
I just love this song by Steven Curtis Chapman! It reminds me that this journey we are on - bumps and all, is going to be so worth it!
Do you ever see someone who seems to be carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders, and you just can't understand how he keeps going? Sometimes it seems supernatural.
This life is full of struggles and suffering. All of us, sooner or later, will have to deal with something horrendous, and we'll get through it. We have no choice. But for a Christian, there's a difference. Yes, we still have to face the problems of this life, we still suffer, but God gives us a peace that comes from knowing we are never alone in our struggles. He is walking with us every step.
There is a difference between just surviving bad times and coming through those bad times in victory. A Christian uses those difficult times as a testimony to God's faithfulness. So even in the worst possible circumstances, others see strength that defies our circumstances. It's the strength that Christ provides.
No matter how tough things get, Christ has promised to give us everything we need to get through the crisis. He is ready to strengthen us, provide for us and give us His peace which is beyond our comprehension.
I love this passage in Philippians. Actually, the whole book of Philippians is a treasure chest of encouragement and hope - regardless of the circumstances we may be facing.
The bottom line - I'm not alone. My Father is the Creator of the Universe and He chose me to be His special possession. Now that's reason to rejoice always!
Philippians 4
4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your graciousness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. 6 Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any moral excellence and if there is any praise—dwell on these things. 9 Do what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.
Appreciation of Support
10 I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that once again you renewed your care for me. You were, in fact, concerned about me but lacked the opportunity to show it. 11 I don’t say this out of need, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. 12 I know both how to have a little, and I know how to have a lot. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content—whether well fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need. 13 I am able to do all things through Him who strengthens me. 14 Still, you did well by sharing with me in my hardship.15 And you Philippians know that in the early days of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving except you alone. 16 For even in Thessalonica you sent gifts for my need several times. 17 Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the profit that is increasing to your account. 18 But I have received everything in full, and I have an abundance. I am fully supplied, having received from Epaphroditus what you provided—a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. 19 And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. 20 Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.
from Belief Changers:
Today, I need the peace that only Your presence brings. With situations and circumstances that create concern, I ask You to be the Peace that passes all understanding. I don't have to know the all the details, I only need to know You're here. Lord let Your peace prevail in my home, at work, wherever you lead me, let love and grace fill the atmosphere. I pray for this nation as well as every nation of the earth. Let Your word go forth and draw men, women and children to You, wonderful Savior! Amen & So be it!
http://youtu.be/1vmY2ztb5xc - How great the Father's Love - Selah
How Deep The Father's Love For Us
by Selah
from the album "You Deliver Me"
Lyrics:
How deep the Father's love for us
How vast beyond all measure
That He should give His only Son
To make a wretch His treasure
How great the pain of searing loss
The Father turns His face away
As wounds which mar the Chosen One
Bring many sons to glory
Behold the Man upon the cross
Ashamed to hear my mocking voice
Call out among the scoffers
It was my sin that kept Him there
Until it was accomplished
His dying breath has brought me life
I know that it is finished
I will not boast in anything
No gifts, no power, no wisdom
But I will boast in Jesus Christ
His death and resurrection
Why should I gain from His reward?
I cannot give an answer
But this I know with all my heart
His wounds have paid my ransom [x2]
Saturday, July 14, 2012
A CLEAN HEART
Psalm 51:10-13God, create a clean heart for me and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
11 Do not banish me from Your presence or take Your Holy Spirit from me.
12 Restore the joy of Your salvation to me, and give me a willing spirit.
13 Then I will teach the rebellious Your ways, and sinners will return to You.
http://youtu.be/aSIazjrA0Ls - Refiner's Fire - Brian Doerksen
Purify my heart
Let me be as gold and precious silver
Purify my heart
Let me be as gold, pure gold
Refiner's fire
My heart's one desire
Is to be holy
Set apart for You, Lord
I choose to be holy
Set apart for You, my Master
Ready to do Your will
Purify my heart
Cleanse me from within
And make me holy
Purify my heart
Cleanse me from my sin
Deep within
This message has been on my mind so much lately. I feel that my heart's desire truly is to be holy, set apart to do whatever the Lord has for me to do. I fail miserably but I refuse to give up because I know I have the power of the Holy Spirit within me ready to get me through whatever may come my way.
I don't like life to be difficult. I don't like problems. But I've begun to look at obstacles and struggles as tests. Can I pass the test? Will I work through the obstacles by keeping my focus on Jesus, inviting Him to be my Guide and Strength? I so want to be able to do that consistently. I really think that many of those difficult challenges I face from time to time may just be to refine me, like the refiner's fire as he seeks to purify the silver by getting rid of any impurities.
I can know the right way to handle adversity, but until I have adversity and have to actually put what I know into practice, I'm just spouting off knowledge. But really using that knowledge in the face of adversity, that's wisdom. And when I manage to trust God to get me through the struggles of life, the next struggle doesn't seem nearly as threatening.
Malachi 3
3 “See, I am going to send My messenger, and he will clear the way before Me. Then the Lord you seek will suddenly come to His temple, the Messenger of the covenant you desire—see, He is coming,” says the Lord of Hosts. 2 But who can endure the day of His coming? And who will be able to stand when He appears?
For He will be like a refiner’s fire and like cleansing lye. 3 He will be like a refiner and purifier of silver; He will purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver. Then they will present offerings to the Lord in righteousness. 4 And the offerings of Judah and Jerusalem will please the Lord as in days of old and years gone by.
When I read this, I was reminded of the passage in 1 Corinthians 10:13:
Ezekiel 36:23b-
The nations will know that I am Yahweh”—the declaration of the Lord God—“when I demonstrate My holiness through you in their sight. 24 “For I will take you from the nations and gather you from all the countries, and will bring you into your own land. 25 I will also sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean. 26 I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will remove your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. 27 I will place My Spirit within you and cause you to follow My statutes and carefully observe My ordinances. 28 Then you will live in the land that I gave your fathers; you will be My people, and I will be your God. 29 I will save you from all your uncleanness.
http://youtu.be/SXJz8-6dNKg - Come and fill my heart - Avalon
Psalm 51:10-1311 Do not banish me from Your presence or take Your Holy Spirit from me.
12 Restore the joy of Your salvation to me, and give me a willing spirit.
13 Then I will teach the rebellious Your ways, and sinners will return to You.
http://youtu.be/aSIazjrA0Ls - Refiner's Fire - Brian Doerksen
Purify my heart
Let me be as gold and precious silver
Purify my heart
Let me be as gold, pure gold
Refiner's fire
My heart's one desire
Is to be holy
Set apart for You, Lord
I choose to be holy
Set apart for You, my Master
Ready to do Your will
Purify my heart
Cleanse me from within
And make me holy
Purify my heart
Cleanse me from my sin
Deep within
This message has been on my mind so much lately. I feel that my heart's desire truly is to be holy, set apart to do whatever the Lord has for me to do. I fail miserably but I refuse to give up because I know I have the power of the Holy Spirit within me ready to get me through whatever may come my way.
I don't like life to be difficult. I don't like problems. But I've begun to look at obstacles and struggles as tests. Can I pass the test? Will I work through the obstacles by keeping my focus on Jesus, inviting Him to be my Guide and Strength? I so want to be able to do that consistently. I really think that many of those difficult challenges I face from time to time may just be to refine me, like the refiner's fire as he seeks to purify the silver by getting rid of any impurities.
I can know the right way to handle adversity, but until I have adversity and have to actually put what I know into practice, I'm just spouting off knowledge. But really using that knowledge in the face of adversity, that's wisdom. And when I manage to trust God to get me through the struggles of life, the next struggle doesn't seem nearly as threatening.
Malachi 3
3 “See, I am going to send My messenger, and he will clear the way before Me. Then the Lord you seek will suddenly come to His temple, the Messenger of the covenant you desire—see, He is coming,” says the Lord of Hosts. 2 But who can endure the day of His coming? And who will be able to stand when He appears?
For He will be like a refiner’s fire and like cleansing lye. 3 He will be like a refiner and purifier of silver; He will purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver. Then they will present offerings to the Lord in righteousness. 4 And the offerings of Judah and Jerusalem will please the Lord as in days of old and years gone by.
Refining Silver
Some time ago, a few ladies met in a certain city to read the scriptures, and make them the subject of conversation. While reading the third chapter of Malachi they came upon a remarkable expression in the third verse: "And He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver." One lady's opinion was that is was intended to convey the view of the sanctifying influence of the grace of Christ. Then she proposed to visit a silversmith and report to them what he said on the subject.
She went accordingly and without telling the object of her errand, begged to know the process of refining silver, which he fully described to her. "But Sir" she said, "do you sit while the work of refining is going on?" "Oh, yes, madam," replied the silversmith; "I must sit with my eye steadily fixed on the furnace, for if the time necessary for refining be exceeded in the slightest degree, the silver will be injured."
The lady at once saw the beauty, and comfort too, of the expression, "He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver." Christ sees it needful to put His children into a furnace; His eye is steadily intent on the work of purifying, and His wisdom and love are both engaged in the best manner for them. Their trials do not come at random; "the very hairs of your head are all numbered."
As the lady was leaving the shop, the silversmith called her back, and said he had forgotten to mention that the only way that he knows when the process of purifying is complete when he sees his own image reflected in the silver....
--Author Unknown
When I read this, I was reminded of the passage in 1 Corinthians 10:13:
No testing has overtaken you that is not common to everyone. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tested beyond your strength, but with the testing he will also provide the way out so that you may be able to endure it.
He will not let me be tested beyond my strength, but will provide a way out so that I can endure. That way out is always reaching for His Hand, trusting Him to pull me through the fire. And He is always faithful.
The Lord has promised to give me a new heart and to put His Spirit within me. His Holy Spirit living in me prompts me to choose His Way not mine own. When I listen and obey, His holiness is demonstrated in me. This is not righteous of my own, I am simply reflecting the righteousness of Christ, shining through my willingness and my desire to live for Him. The more intense the heat I face, the closer my Lord watches, ready to scoop me out of danger. One day, I hope to be so refined and pure that Jesus will see Himself in me.Ezekiel 36:23b-
The nations will know that I am Yahweh”—the declaration of the Lord God—“when I demonstrate My holiness through you in their sight. 24 “For I will take you from the nations and gather you from all the countries, and will bring you into your own land. 25 I will also sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean. 26 I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will remove your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. 27 I will place My Spirit within you and cause you to follow My statutes and carefully observe My ordinances. 28 Then you will live in the land that I gave your fathers; you will be My people, and I will be your God. 29 I will save you from all your uncleanness.
http://youtu.be/SXJz8-6dNKg - Come and fill my heart - Avalon
Sunday, July 8, 2012
Contagious Faith!
 |
| 2 Corinthians 4:6 For God, who said, “Let there be light in the darkness,” has made this light shine in our hearts so we could know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ. |
If this song doesn't get you up and moving on Monday morning, I don't know what will! We've got something in Christ that should have us up dancing for joy. Share your joy in Christ! It's contagious!
Contagious Faith
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord,
not for men. - Colossians 3:23 NIV
Are you genuinely excited about your faith? And do you make your enthusiasm known to those around you? Or are you a "silent ambassador" for Christ? God's preference is clear: He intends that you stand before others and proclaim your faith.
Genuine, heartfelt Christianity is contagious! If you enjoy a life-altering relationship with God, that relationship will have an impact on others—perhaps a profound impact.
A couple of years ago, Dallas Christian School's PTO has a special motto: Be Salt & Light at DC! We wanted our lives to reflect His LIGHT so that others would be drawn to HIM, and we wanted to be salt. We wanted to be influencers in the world for Christ. I think it's a motto every Christian should have.
Salt has many purposes: http://www.teal.org.uk/mat/saltand.htm
As a seasoning agent, it improves the taste of the food that it comes into contact with, and so as we come into contact with society our Christian values should improve the nature of that society.
Salt makes people thirsty - and as Christians we seek to create a thirst in people's lives that can only be satisfied by Jesus, who said : "if anyone is thirsty, let him come to me me and drink" (John 7:37)
Salt is used to thaw ice on roads : so it can have the effect of warming hearts that have hardened against the gospel - over time the saltiness of Christians can bring people to know Jesus Christ.
As a preservative, salt gives food an improved length of life. Ultimately, with enough salt, those who do know Jesus, and acknowledge Him as Lord and Saviour will have eternal life.
My job as a disciple of Christ is to be Salt and Light, and if I am, my faith will be contagious! I'll be a positive influence on my community, my school, at my job, at my church and in my home.
Isaiah 58:10
Feed the hungry, and help those in trouble. Then your light will shine out from the darkness, and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon.
Isaiah 60:1
“Arise, Jerusalem! Let your light shine for all to see. For the glory of the Lord rises to shine on you.
Isaiah 60:19
“No longer will you need the sun to shine by day, nor the moon to give its light by night, for the Lord your God will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory.
Mark 4:21
Then Jesus asked them, “Would anyone light a lamp and then put it under a basket or under a bed? Of course not! A lamp is placed on a stand, where its light will shine.
John 1:5
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.
John 12:35
Jesus replied, “My light will shine for you just a little longer. Walk in the light while you can, so the darkness will not overtake you. Those who walk in the darkness cannot see where they are going.
John 12:46
I have come as a light to shine in this dark world, so that all who put their trust in me will no longer remain in the dark.
2 Corinthians 4:6
For God, who said, “Let there be light in the darkness,” has made this light shine in our hearts so we could know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ.
Believers are the light of the world. We are to reflect Jesus, The LIGHT, to those around us who are struggling in darkness. Let your light shine today. Don't just go through the motions - give today your everything!
http://youtu.be/qaHmiFaX_pk - Going Through The Motions
Does Christ reign over your life? Then share your testimony and your excitement. The world needs both.
http://youtu.be/auE-ZCQBOKY - More - Matthew West
"Your enthusiasm will be infectious, stimulating, and attractive to others. They will love you for it. They will go for you and with you."
Norman Vincent Peale
"Prayer must be aflame. Prayer without fervor is as a sun without light or heat, or as a flower without beauty or fragrance. A soul devoted to God is a fervent soul, and prayer is the creature of that flame. He only can truly pray who is all aglow for holiness, for God, and for heaven."
E. M. Bounds
"Catch on fire with enthusiasm and people will come for miles to watch you burn." John Wesley
"Don't take hold of a thing unless you want that thing to take hold of you."
E. Stanley Jones
Father, Thank You for loving me and for sending Your Son to save me. How can I show my gratitude for such a wonderful gift! Help me to be a light that reflects Your great love. I know that others are watching the way that I live my life. Help me to be an enthusiastic Christian with a faith that is contagious. In Jesus' Name I pray. Amen.
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