"You will again have compassion on us; you will tread our sins underfoot and hurl our iniquities into the depths of the sea."
Micah 7:19
Have you ever sorely regretted a sin you committed against someone? You apologized profusely, the wronged person assured your forgiveness, yet they kept bringing it up? Like a bandage that kept getting ripped off a wound, you could not heal. Sometimes, I'm glad humans have great memories; other times, not.
Close your eyes and imagine God grinding his heel into your sin, pulverizing all likes of it into the ground. Or he's standing on a high cliff over a raging sea holding all your regrets in a black bag. With all his might, he chucks it into the sea as far as he can! Do you think he's interested in seeing if it floats to the surface so he can reopen it and rummage through all your stuff? No.
God sent his beloved Son into the world to forgive sins, not to condemn us. He does not want anyone to perish. He is loving, patient and compassionate.
If you have something you just cannot forgive yourself for, put it into the baggage, stand beside the God of the universe and chuck it as far as you can! Then the two of you can get on with life, reconciled, redeemed and renewed.
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Sunday, July 28, 2013
A Firm Foundation
"So, this is what the Sovereign Lord says, 'See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who trusts will never be dismayed."
Isaiah 28: 16
The old house in which I was raised is still there, silently standing on the shady street by the vacant elementary school. The kids are grown and gone, my father's in an assisted living facility; my mother remains there. It's a place dear to my heart with its spidery basement, creaky wood floors and screened back porch where we ate watermelon and squirted seeds at each other. Raised by Christian parents, this is where I felt safe and securely loved. Even after I moved out, I could always return for a warm reception, laughter and support. Like Scarlett O'Hara, I thought I drew my strength from the red earth of my Tara. As time changes things, I wonder how could I ever accept someone else living there someday?
A black and white photograph I have shows me at age three standing by the foundation of that house, ready for Sunday School with my offering envelope in hand and a large Bible tucked under my arm. As I pondered that photo, I came to realize that my true strength comes from the tested Cornerstone, Jesus Christ. Everything that I see is temporary; what is unseen is eternal so I place my trust on that tested Stone. I will never be dismayed.
Isaiah 28: 16
The old house in which I was raised is still there, silently standing on the shady street by the vacant elementary school. The kids are grown and gone, my father's in an assisted living facility; my mother remains there. It's a place dear to my heart with its spidery basement, creaky wood floors and screened back porch where we ate watermelon and squirted seeds at each other. Raised by Christian parents, this is where I felt safe and securely loved. Even after I moved out, I could always return for a warm reception, laughter and support. Like Scarlett O'Hara, I thought I drew my strength from the red earth of my Tara. As time changes things, I wonder how could I ever accept someone else living there someday?
A black and white photograph I have shows me at age three standing by the foundation of that house, ready for Sunday School with my offering envelope in hand and a large Bible tucked under my arm. As I pondered that photo, I came to realize that my true strength comes from the tested Cornerstone, Jesus Christ. Everything that I see is temporary; what is unseen is eternal so I place my trust on that tested Stone. I will never be dismayed.
The Faithful Presence
"When I awake, I am still with you."
Psalm 139:18
What if I woke up and God was missing? It would be like waking up to find my spouse has left me, or my child was not in her bed. Frantic panic and profound emptiness would quickly ensue as the realization dawned on me: "He's gone. I'm alone." Have you ever known that level of lonliness?
Here are the promises from our Divine Presence:
"I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go." Genesis 28:15
"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you." Isaiah 43:2
"And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:20
God is faithful. He never changes so you can trust in him. Relax in his presence.
Psalm 139:18
What if I woke up and God was missing? It would be like waking up to find my spouse has left me, or my child was not in her bed. Frantic panic and profound emptiness would quickly ensue as the realization dawned on me: "He's gone. I'm alone." Have you ever known that level of lonliness?
Here are the promises from our Divine Presence:
"I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go." Genesis 28:15
"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you." Isaiah 43:2
"And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:20
God is faithful. He never changes so you can trust in him. Relax in his presence.
Sunday, July 21, 2013
Use Quality Materials
"For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Christ Jesus. If any man builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, his work will be shown for what it is, because The Day will bring it to light."
1 Corinthians 3: 11-13
We all have been given the same foundation on which to build, that of the precious Lamb of God. What materials will you use? Gold or straw?
In this world, only what is done for Christ will last. If I tithe ten percent of my time and money, if I devote daily time toward reading the Bible and prayer, if I confess my sins, share the gospel and act with hospitality, generosity and love - these are the golden materials.
Why would I choose anything of lesser, flimsy quality?
1 Corinthians 3: 11-13
We all have been given the same foundation on which to build, that of the precious Lamb of God. What materials will you use? Gold or straw?
In this world, only what is done for Christ will last. If I tithe ten percent of my time and money, if I devote daily time toward reading the Bible and prayer, if I confess my sins, share the gospel and act with hospitality, generosity and love - these are the golden materials.
Why would I choose anything of lesser, flimsy quality?
Do the Right Thing
"Do not follow the crowd in doing wrong." Exodus 23:2
"Stop doing wrong, learn to do right." Isaiah 1:16
"Never tire of doing what is right." 2 Thessalonians 3:13
"The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart." Psalm 19:8
Doing the right thing is a conscious choice. It may not come naturally, and it may be a very difficult thing to do at times, especially if everyone else chooses a different path.
Recently, I had a decision to make. In trying to receive benefits from a governmental office to help my parents, it was surreptitiously suggested by someone that I hide some of their assets. If I had sent the request through as is, I ran the risk of not receiving the benefits. After reading the above verses, the answer was very clear: send the application honestly and let God do as He sees fit. This brings joy to my heart!
When constructing anything, right angles are necessary or the whole project will go awry! Do the right thing and God will bless your efforts.
"Stop doing wrong, learn to do right." Isaiah 1:16
"Never tire of doing what is right." 2 Thessalonians 3:13
"The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart." Psalm 19:8
Doing the right thing is a conscious choice. It may not come naturally, and it may be a very difficult thing to do at times, especially if everyone else chooses a different path.
Recently, I had a decision to make. In trying to receive benefits from a governmental office to help my parents, it was surreptitiously suggested by someone that I hide some of their assets. If I had sent the request through as is, I ran the risk of not receiving the benefits. After reading the above verses, the answer was very clear: send the application honestly and let God do as He sees fit. This brings joy to my heart!
When constructing anything, right angles are necessary or the whole project will go awry! Do the right thing and God will bless your efforts.
Thursday, July 18, 2013
Why Search for Jesus?
"Once the crowd realized that neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they got into the boats and went to Capernaum in search of Jesus."
John 6:24
What motivates me to search for Jesus? Some of the people in the Gospel of John wanted Jesus to be their earthly king, to provide food, to demonstrate power and to bring Rome under their feet.
Do I seek Jesus for these reasons, knowing He is the omnipotent King of all? While that is surely a benefit beyond all measure, I'd like to say I seek Jesus for completeness. Without Him, I've a void that aches and I have dark red sin stains which weigh me down. Jesus gives me peace that passes all understanding, joy that exceeds happiness and hope for a future that He mandates.
"I am trusting thee, Lord Jesus, trusting only thee.
Trusting thee for full salvation, rich and free."
John 6:24
What motivates me to search for Jesus? Some of the people in the Gospel of John wanted Jesus to be their earthly king, to provide food, to demonstrate power and to bring Rome under their feet.
Do I seek Jesus for these reasons, knowing He is the omnipotent King of all? While that is surely a benefit beyond all measure, I'd like to say I seek Jesus for completeness. Without Him, I've a void that aches and I have dark red sin stains which weigh me down. Jesus gives me peace that passes all understanding, joy that exceeds happiness and hope for a future that He mandates.
"I am trusting thee, Lord Jesus, trusting only thee.
Trusting thee for full salvation, rich and free."
Love One Another
"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
John 13: 34 & 35
"As I have loved you." There's the heart of it all! I am to love others in the same way that Jesus loves me - and just how is that? He washes my feet, he does not condemn me, he forgives me 70 times 7, he does not cast the first stone, he laid down his life for me. What a tall order! Yet it is a command. Why is it so important that Jesus insists upon it?
As he explains in the next verse: "By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." It is like a brand name on the back of my jeans, or like an accent or a distinguishing feature so that all the world may recognize me as a Christian. If I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. (see 1 Corinthians 13)
I read an article in the paper the other day entitled "Deadly Start to Holy Month in Iraq." In the Muslim world, Ramadan is meant to be a month set aside for spiritual growth and generosity. According to the article, it is "shaping up to be the deadliest in Iraq." Just seven days into Ramadan, one hundred sixty-nine Iraqis have been killed as suicide attacks and car bombings widely spread chaos and fear. Folks have been killed while playing a game, swimming with friends, shopping for festive dinners or coming home from prayers.
As a Christian, may I remember the words of Jesus and strive to be a part of the solution to the problems in this world. The best place to start is to love one another. After all, I see what happens in a religion that has not love.
John 13: 34 & 35
"As I have loved you." There's the heart of it all! I am to love others in the same way that Jesus loves me - and just how is that? He washes my feet, he does not condemn me, he forgives me 70 times 7, he does not cast the first stone, he laid down his life for me. What a tall order! Yet it is a command. Why is it so important that Jesus insists upon it?
As he explains in the next verse: "By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." It is like a brand name on the back of my jeans, or like an accent or a distinguishing feature so that all the world may recognize me as a Christian. If I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. (see 1 Corinthians 13)
I read an article in the paper the other day entitled "Deadly Start to Holy Month in Iraq." In the Muslim world, Ramadan is meant to be a month set aside for spiritual growth and generosity. According to the article, it is "shaping up to be the deadliest in Iraq." Just seven days into Ramadan, one hundred sixty-nine Iraqis have been killed as suicide attacks and car bombings widely spread chaos and fear. Folks have been killed while playing a game, swimming with friends, shopping for festive dinners or coming home from prayers.
As a Christian, may I remember the words of Jesus and strive to be a part of the solution to the problems in this world. The best place to start is to love one another. After all, I see what happens in a religion that has not love.
Monday, July 15, 2013
Welcome to the Family
"When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak because she thought, 'If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed.'...
At once, Jesus realized that power had gone out of him. He turned around in the crowd and asked, 'Who touched my clothes?'"
Mark 5: 27-34
He knows it and she knows it. Both Jesus and the woman know he has healed her chronic suffering, yet he wants to speak to her. It's not that he wants to chastise her but he wants to personally assure her that her faith has made her whole. He desires eye contact, conversation, a personal touch. By addressing her as "daughter", he accepts her into his family.
How beautiful is that?
At once, Jesus realized that power had gone out of him. He turned around in the crowd and asked, 'Who touched my clothes?'"
Mark 5: 27-34
He knows it and she knows it. Both Jesus and the woman know he has healed her chronic suffering, yet he wants to speak to her. It's not that he wants to chastise her but he wants to personally assure her that her faith has made her whole. He desires eye contact, conversation, a personal touch. By addressing her as "daughter", he accepts her into his family.
How beautiful is that?
Grow Up
"So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who makes things grow."
1 Corinthians 3:7
Growth is so important. If I were the same size I was in 1961, I'd not have been able to experience things like marriage and motherhood. Intellectual growth is just as important, but, unlike my physique, should never cease. As my dad used to say, until I've read all the books down at Morley Library, I don't know it all. Spiritual growth, of the three components, is most crucial. After all, if I'm going to spend eternity with my Savior, I want to know all I can about him. I love him; he loves me so I want to explore his background, his roots, his future, his family, his likes and dislikes.
Faith begins like a small seed. Once planted, the sunshine of Scripture and the rain of prayers cultivate my heart as the Spirit continues to pull weeds. It's a lifelong process that is necessary for eternal happiness.
"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ." 2 Peter 3:18
1 Corinthians 3:7
Growth is so important. If I were the same size I was in 1961, I'd not have been able to experience things like marriage and motherhood. Intellectual growth is just as important, but, unlike my physique, should never cease. As my dad used to say, until I've read all the books down at Morley Library, I don't know it all. Spiritual growth, of the three components, is most crucial. After all, if I'm going to spend eternity with my Savior, I want to know all I can about him. I love him; he loves me so I want to explore his background, his roots, his future, his family, his likes and dislikes.
Faith begins like a small seed. Once planted, the sunshine of Scripture and the rain of prayers cultivate my heart as the Spirit continues to pull weeds. It's a lifelong process that is necessary for eternal happiness.
"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ." 2 Peter 3:18
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
Are You Thirsty?
"Jesus answered, 'Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.'"
John 4: 13 & 14
"'Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him.' By this he (Jesus) meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to recieve."
John 7: 38 & 39
When I awoke today, feeling thirsty, I drank some water before my feet even hit the floor. Padding into the bathroom, I used water there for all my daily needs. In fact, that's a room that would be utterly useless without water. Coming downstairs, I gave fresh water to the pets, then filled the coffee pot also. Looking outside, I see how the thunderstorm during the night has nourished the foliage and created baths for the birds.
Where would any of us be without water? Not too many days would pass before I'd be dirty, disheveled and dehydrated. My organs would dry up, my brain would disconnect, I'd be dead.
With the Spirit of God dwelling within me, I have a wellspring of life flowing from my soul! Saying my prayers and reading my Bible refresh me like a cold drink on a hot day. When I walk through the deserts of discouragement, depression or disease, I have all I need for the journey. "His grace is sufficient for all my needs."
Some folks do not even realize how thirsty they are. Jesus is wanting a personal, vibrant, abundant relationship with YOU. Ask him into your heart today and you will never be thirsty again.
John 4: 13 & 14
"'Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him.' By this he (Jesus) meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to recieve."
John 7: 38 & 39
When I awoke today, feeling thirsty, I drank some water before my feet even hit the floor. Padding into the bathroom, I used water there for all my daily needs. In fact, that's a room that would be utterly useless without water. Coming downstairs, I gave fresh water to the pets, then filled the coffee pot also. Looking outside, I see how the thunderstorm during the night has nourished the foliage and created baths for the birds.
Where would any of us be without water? Not too many days would pass before I'd be dirty, disheveled and dehydrated. My organs would dry up, my brain would disconnect, I'd be dead.
With the Spirit of God dwelling within me, I have a wellspring of life flowing from my soul! Saying my prayers and reading my Bible refresh me like a cold drink on a hot day. When I walk through the deserts of discouragement, depression or disease, I have all I need for the journey. "His grace is sufficient for all my needs."
Some folks do not even realize how thirsty they are. Jesus is wanting a personal, vibrant, abundant relationship with YOU. Ask him into your heart today and you will never be thirsty again.
This is My Country
"All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance. And they admitted that they were aliens and strangers on earth. People who say such things show that they are looking for a country of their own. If they had been thinking of the country they had left, they would have had opportunity to return. Instead, they were longing for a better country - a heavenly one. Therefore, God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them."
Hebrews 11: 13-16
In the grand scheme of things, I am one of the luckiest, richest women on earth, not because I own five hundred pairs of shoes or use cashmere burp cloths, but because I am an American, living in a beautiful home that is paid in full. I have a husband who adores me, two lovely daughters, my parents and siblings live nearby. I have a car, a job, excellent health and three pets. I have never been hungry a day in my 51 years. I have never been sued, raped or abused. A bevy of caring friends and neighbors surround me and I know Jesus as my best friend.
With all of this, there are still times of depression or discouragement. I live behind locked doors, just in case. Sin still permeates this broken world.
As the old hymn goes: "I am but a stranger here; Heaven is my home." Within the New Jerusalem, nothing evil shall ever enter! There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain. God shall wipe away all tears from my eyes. He, himself, will be with me.
Only then shall I truly proclaim: "This is my country, land that I love."
Hebrews 11: 13-16
In the grand scheme of things, I am one of the luckiest, richest women on earth, not because I own five hundred pairs of shoes or use cashmere burp cloths, but because I am an American, living in a beautiful home that is paid in full. I have a husband who adores me, two lovely daughters, my parents and siblings live nearby. I have a car, a job, excellent health and three pets. I have never been hungry a day in my 51 years. I have never been sued, raped or abused. A bevy of caring friends and neighbors surround me and I know Jesus as my best friend.
With all of this, there are still times of depression or discouragement. I live behind locked doors, just in case. Sin still permeates this broken world.
As the old hymn goes: "I am but a stranger here; Heaven is my home." Within the New Jerusalem, nothing evil shall ever enter! There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain. God shall wipe away all tears from my eyes. He, himself, will be with me.
Only then shall I truly proclaim: "This is my country, land that I love."
Sunday, July 7, 2013
Just Do It
"Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened to Jerusalem. Three times a day, he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just has he had done before."
Daniel 6:10
This decree said "anyone who prays to any god or man during the next thirty days except to you, O King (Darius), shall be thrown into the lion's den." (6:7) Now, the concept of being thrown into a den of hungry, prowling lions would be scary to most. Perhaps Daniel, fearing for his life, could have reasoned, "It's only for 30 days. Maybe I should just cease my daily way of praying to save my skin." However, Daniel wisely relied on the salvation of God, not on himself, and he went home and did things just as he did before.
Being an American, I enjoy freedom of religion, but I may not always have that. Things have a way of changing. However, no decree from any government is going to alter my faith. My help comes from the name of the Lord.
Daniel 6:10
This decree said "anyone who prays to any god or man during the next thirty days except to you, O King (Darius), shall be thrown into the lion's den." (6:7) Now, the concept of being thrown into a den of hungry, prowling lions would be scary to most. Perhaps Daniel, fearing for his life, could have reasoned, "It's only for 30 days. Maybe I should just cease my daily way of praying to save my skin." However, Daniel wisely relied on the salvation of God, not on himself, and he went home and did things just as he did before.
Being an American, I enjoy freedom of religion, but I may not always have that. Things have a way of changing. However, no decree from any government is going to alter my faith. My help comes from the name of the Lord.
Get the Seeds Out of the Shed
In the Parable of the Sower, found in Luke 8: 4-15, it is the same man who is scattering the same seed, yet not all seeds grow. Why? It depends on where it lands.
When telling the gospel story, one never knows how it'll be received. Will the hearer have a hard heart? Will they accept Christ, believe in him and persevere? Or will the worries of life choke their faith?
It's more important to scatter that seed, not worrying about the outcome. What good does it do to keep the seed bag sealed, sitting in the shed? But if we open our hearts and mouths to those who may not know about the gospel, we may just sow on "good soil." Those who have a noble and good heart who hear the word, retain it and, by persevering, produce a crop.
When telling the gospel story, one never knows how it'll be received. Will the hearer have a hard heart? Will they accept Christ, believe in him and persevere? Or will the worries of life choke their faith?
It's more important to scatter that seed, not worrying about the outcome. What good does it do to keep the seed bag sealed, sitting in the shed? But if we open our hearts and mouths to those who may not know about the gospel, we may just sow on "good soil." Those who have a noble and good heart who hear the word, retain it and, by persevering, produce a crop.
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
The Broken Chains of Bondage
"The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners."
Isaiah 61:1
Let Freedom Ring! Sound the Liberty Bell! God has sent Jesus to release us from the slavery and imprisonment of Satan.
My favorite, most treasured symbol of America is the Statue of Liberty. She holds a torch to light the way while the broken chains of tyranny pool around her feet. These words of Emma Lazarus, engraved on her pedestal, could have been taken from scripture:
"Give me your tired, your poor,
your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless tempest-tost to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"
Only Jesus provides true liberty from the imprisonment of darkness, from the tyranny of evil. He has set the captive free and broken the chains of slavery. Believe upon his name and this truth shall set you free.
Isaiah 61:1
Let Freedom Ring! Sound the Liberty Bell! God has sent Jesus to release us from the slavery and imprisonment of Satan.
My favorite, most treasured symbol of America is the Statue of Liberty. She holds a torch to light the way while the broken chains of tyranny pool around her feet. These words of Emma Lazarus, engraved on her pedestal, could have been taken from scripture:
"Give me your tired, your poor,
your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless tempest-tost to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door!"
Only Jesus provides true liberty from the imprisonment of darkness, from the tyranny of evil. He has set the captive free and broken the chains of slavery. Believe upon his name and this truth shall set you free.
Jesus, The Patriot
"You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature, rather, serve one another in love."
Galatians 5:13
I've heard it said that "freedom is not free." On Independence Day, I reflect on my patriot forefathers who gave of life and limb for my liberty.
Romans 8, verses one and two, tells me of my spiritual Patriot who died for my liberty:
"Therefore, there in now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the spirit of life sets me free from the law of sin and death."
This freedom far outweighs freedom of speech and religion. With this brand of liberty, I am free from sin and death! I do not have the freedom to do whatever I please, but to imitate Christ by serving others in love.
Galatians 5:13
I've heard it said that "freedom is not free." On Independence Day, I reflect on my patriot forefathers who gave of life and limb for my liberty.
Romans 8, verses one and two, tells me of my spiritual Patriot who died for my liberty:
"Therefore, there in now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the spirit of life sets me free from the law of sin and death."
This freedom far outweighs freedom of speech and religion. With this brand of liberty, I am free from sin and death! I do not have the freedom to do whatever I please, but to imitate Christ by serving others in love.
God Bless America
"It was not by their sword that they won the land, nor did their arm bring them victory; it was your right hand, your arm, and the light of your face, for you loved them."
Psalm 44:3
God loves America. He has blessed her with liberty and prosperity. In turn, we have said, "In God We Trust." Our stores used to remain closed on Sundays; folks went to church. Kids prayed in school and we were "one nation, under God, with liberty and justice for all." Have we lost sight of our origins?
God lifted his countenance upon our great nation because he wanted us to be a safe haven for worshippers.The government must stay out of religion so believers are free to worship as they choose.
This Independence Day, I pray that we remember to remain dependent on God. Only by his right hand are we victorious.
Psalm 44:3
God loves America. He has blessed her with liberty and prosperity. In turn, we have said, "In God We Trust." Our stores used to remain closed on Sundays; folks went to church. Kids prayed in school and we were "one nation, under God, with liberty and justice for all." Have we lost sight of our origins?
God lifted his countenance upon our great nation because he wanted us to be a safe haven for worshippers.The government must stay out of religion so believers are free to worship as they choose.
This Independence Day, I pray that we remember to remain dependent on God. Only by his right hand are we victorious.
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