Follow the Leader

    Then Jesus called to the crowd to come and hear. "Listen," he said,“and try to understand. It’s not what goes into your mouth that defiles you; you are defiled by the words that come out of your mouth.” 

    Then the disciples came to him and asked, “Do you realize you offended the Pharisees by what you just said?” 

   Jesus replied, “Every plant not planted by my heavenly Father will be uprooted, so ignore them. They are blind guides leading the blind, and if one blind person guides another, they will both fall into a ditch.”
Matthew 15:10-13 NLT

The Pharisees thought they could live righteously by their works - all the dos and don'ts. A religious sect that set itself up as leaders,  nobody wanted to cross them. They had connections. They could get you thrown out of the temple. They had such power over the people that Christ's own disciples asked Him, "Do you realize you offended the Pharisees...?"

We sometimes wonder how people like this get into leadership. They dress the part, they pontificate, they're educated by the world's standard, or just very enigmatic, so people listen to them and then follow them. The Godly principle of 'Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word' doesn't only work through hearing the Word of God. God's principles work and apply in all facets of life.

So, what are you listening to? WHO are you listening to? If you think it doesn't make a difference, think about this. Have you ever noticed that you pick up your friends' idioms? Do you catch yourself using expressions your friends use? What you hang around - what you feed your spirit - what you constantly hear and or listen to - these are the influences of your heart and soul. That is why we are repeatedly warned to guard our hearts.

Further down in our text for today, verses 16-20; “Don’t you understand yet?” Jesus asked. “Anything you eat passes through the stomach and then goes into the sewer. But the words you speak come from the heart—that’s what defiles you. For from the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, all sexual immorality, theft, lying, and slander. These are what defile you."

Scripture tells us in Proverbs 16:25, There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death. God refers to us as sheep and sheep follow the voice of the one they know - the one whose voice is familiar. Who are you following? Because whoever you're following - that's your leader. Where is that person going? Is it the right way or a way that seems like it is? Watch out for the ditch...if you can see it.

Prayer:

Father,
             Open our eyes and hearts to Your Truth. Deliver us from evil for Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Who Am I?

Now this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?”
He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, “I am not the Christ.”
And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?”
He said, “I am not.”
“Are you the Prophet?”
And he answered, “No.”
Then they said to him, “Who are you, that we may give an answer to those who sent us? What do you say about yourself?”
He said: “I am ‘The voice of one crying in the wilderness: “ Make straight the way of the LORD,”’ as the prophet Isaiah said.” (from Isaiah 40:3)
John 1:19-23 NLT

When someone asks me about who Jesus is, I can usually provide a concise answer. But when they ask me to tell them ABOUT Jesus, I need to know how much time they have available because I can go on a mighty long time about that now - anytime and anywhere.

However, it’s a different story if I’m asked about me. I often find myself in settings where I am called on to do just that. “Who are you, Andréa? What do you say have to say about yourself?” If I’m in a business meeting, I usually reply with the position I fill, how long I’ve done it, that sort of thing… but as I got to thinking about that today, I realized the setting usually determines my answer.

However, the fact of the matter is that what I do for a living is not what makes me who I am. What I am – who I am – Whose I am - should determine what I do for a living and how I do it. And it doesn’t matter what job I have or position I hold in ANY setting, as long as Whose I am is still the most obvious strength I possess to make me who I am.

Prayer:

Father,
           Let Your light so shine through my life that the people in my sphere of influence can see You. In Jesus’ Name I pray. Amen

You Shall Know the Truth

Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives' tales; rather, train yourself to be godly.
1st Timothy 4:7 NIV

In The Message, it reads this way, Stay clear of silly stories that get dressed up as religion. 

Don't be nervous - I'm about to jump all over two statements that some people believe are from Scripture. I've even been asked where they are in the Bible...  Remember, my goal is that the Truth will set you free. I hope you will read to the end... 

1. God helps those who help themselves.
2. God won't give you (or put on you) more than you can bear.

I grew up hearing those two fallacies preached at me like they were gospel - straight from the Word of God. They are NOT!  

I think the first one might remotely hint at 2nd Thessalonians 3:10, For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat.  I guess if you really reach, you could loosely define those who work so they can eat as helping themselves, but that's a real stretch...

And for the second one, people tout 1st Corinthians 10:13, No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. This Scripture passage in context (read verses 6-12) is actually about people being tempted to sin and God in His grace providing the way of escape from the temptation. It has nothing to do with bearing a load.

The DANGER in believing those two statements are Scriptural is when life really IS more than we can bear in (and of) our own strength. When we fail because it's not within OUR strength, we blame God because we tried to help ourselves, so why didn't He help us? And believing (the fallacy) that He won't put more on us than we can bear, we get angry and hurt and disappointed and feel betrayed by God because it WAS more than we could bear... on our own. Paul tells us the Truth when he addresses the church in Corinth from his own experience.

In 2nd Corinthians 1:8-9a NLT, Paul writes, We think you ought to know, dear brothers and sisters, about the trouble we went through in the province of Asia. We were crushed and overwhelmed beyond our ability to endure, and we thought we would never live through it. In fact, we expected to die.  Yes, he said, "We think you ought to know..."

Now here's the treasure! The Truth that will set you free!  Continuing in verse 9b - 10, But as a result, we stopped relying on ourselves and learned to rely only on God, who raises the dead. And he did rescue us from mortal danger, and he will rescue us again. We have placed our confidence in him, and he will continue to rescue us.

Later on, in chapter 12 is when Paul tells us that God said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” His power in our weakness. It's always been about us learning to rely on God.

Prayer:

Father,

           Thank You for opening our eyes to the Truth of Your Word. Cause the roots of it to go deep into our hearts. Forgive us for believing silly stories dressed up as religion. Give us the opportunity to spread the Light of Your Truth to all who will listen. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen.

What's Happening

Seek the Lord while he may be found; call upon him while he is near; let the wicked forsake his way,  and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, that he may have compassion on him, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.
Isaiah 55:6-9 ESV

Have you ever been diligently working on a project, only to have someone come and ask you what's happening with it? Maybe they can't see everything you're doing on the side, or perhaps they're not seeing the results they think should be visible according to their schedule. It takes a certain trust factor between you and the rest of the team to be able to forge ahead, especially if they haven't heard from you in a while.

Have you ever prayed and waited... and waited... and waited... and waited some more without being able to see if God is doing anything?  Abraham waited 25 years for Isaac. The nation of Israel waited several centuries to make their promised exodus. Yet, in all that time their faith was being strengthened by the many tests and trials they endured. 

Taking into consideration that half the time, we can't even understand our own mind, who can understand the mind of God?  God is always working His plan for our lives. Always - even if we can't see it. 

The next time we want to question God about what's happening, perhaps we should thank Him instead for another opportunity to grow in faith... because THAT's what is happening.

Prayer:

Father,

           We thank You for opportunities to grow, and for Your overwhelming love represented by those opportunities. Give us hearts to trust You, minds that do not lean to our own understanding, and hands that are quick to serve others for You. Let us remain steadfast in following You. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

For Your Name's Sake

Not for our sake, God, no, not for our sake,
but for your name’s sake, show your glory.
Do it on account of your merciful love,
do it on account of your faithful ways.
Do it so none of the nations can say,
“Where now, oh where is their God?”
Psalm 115:1-2 The Message

Our God is in heaven doing whatever he wants to do. Their gods are metal and wood, handmade in a basement shop: Carved mouths that can’t talk, painted eyes that can’t see, Tin ears that can’t hear,
molded noses that can’t smell, Hands that can’t grasp, feet that can’t walk or run, throats that never utter a sound. Those who make them have become just like them, have become just like the gods they trust.

But you, Israel: put your trust in God!
—trust your Helper! trust your Ruler!
Clan of Aaron, trust in God!
—trust your Helper! trust your Ruler!
You who fear God, trust in God!
—trust your Helper! trust your Ruler!

O God, remember us and bless us, bless the families of Israel and Aaron. And let God bless all who fear God— bless the small, bless the great. Oh, let God enlarge your families— giving growth to you, growth to your children. May you be blessed by God, by God, who made heaven and earth. The heaven of heavens is for God, but he put us in charge of the earth.

Dead people can’t praise God—
not a word to be heard from those buried in the ground.
But we bless God, oh yes—
we bless him now, we bless him always!

Hallelujah!

Psalm 115:3-18 The Message

Prayer:

Father,
          I never cease to be amazed at the profound goodness of Your Word - Your faithfulness to show us exactly what we need and how nothing in this world can even remotely come close. Let us always remember our only hope is in You.  In Jesus' Name we pray.  Amen

Intentional Seeds

Then God said, “Let the land sprout with vegetation—every sort of seed-bearing plant, and trees that grow seed-bearing fruit. These seeds will then produce the kinds of plants and trees from which they came.” And that is what happened.

Genesis 1:11 NLT

My thoughts have already turned to Spring and wanting to plant some seeds, even though it's the coldest winter we've had in several years. 

Have you ever pondered seeds in a piece of fruit? For instance, we could count how many seeds are in a single apple. That's not difficult. However, can we count how many apples are in those seeds? Is there any way for us to know? One seed grows one tree, that in time produces apples. How many apples? And how many potential trees are in each of those apples? And how many years will that one tree produce apples? I know, what's my point?

I'm reminded of a friend who had a cookout at his house. They grilled food outside and ate ice-cold watermelon for dessert. One seed found its way into one of his rose beds, and he wound up with a watermelon patch from that one seed. 

As a child, I would grab an apple, maybe rub it on my shirt to clean it and just eat it, spitting out seeds as I went along. As an adult, I wash it and dry it, then slice it and carve the seeds out before eating it. I'm very intentional about it. 

Oh, that we would be as intentional when it comes to eating the fruit of life! Think about the ability of one seed to change the course or purpose of a life, just like that one seed did with the rose bed turned watermelon patch. I've been thinking about the potential of one seed. 

What if it's just one seed of doubt? One seed of resentment?  One seed of anger? Can we afford to nurse that one seed and its potential? We should be intentional about what seeds are allowed to grow. 

Prayer:

Father,

           Thank You for life in the seed. Help us to be ever mindful of the seeds we sow and allow to be sown, not only in our lives, but also in those around us. Indwell us, Holy Spirit, so that we produce Your fruit in our lives according to Galatians 5; love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Cause us to be intentional in what we sow and reap. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen.

Our Daily Bread

Meanwhile, the disciples were finding fault with each other because they had forgotten to bring bread. Jesus overheard and said, "Why are you fussing because you forgot bread? Don't you see the point of all this? Don't you get it at all? Remember the five loaves I broke for the five thousand? How many baskets of leftovers did you pick up?"

They said, "Twelve."

"And the seven loaves for the four thousand—how many bags full of leftovers did you get?"

"Seven."

He said, "Do you still not get it?"

Mark 8:16-21 The Message

I know quite a few people who won't have anything to do with eating leftovers. They just refuse. I don't always understand that, but to each his own, I guess. I don't have a problem with most leftovers. In fact, some things I'll fix just so they will be leftover because they taste better the second time around. Other things, I won't eat after the first round of it. Funny thing is, I've discovered God is the same way about that.

God cares about the leftovers. Scripture tells us that when partaking of the Passover Feast, one is never to eat the leftovers. And in Leviticus, the Israelites were never to eat leftovers from an offering made for thanksgiving. (That will be someone's new argument this year for not eating leftover turkey.) On the other hand, God made provision for the priests and their families from the leftovers of other offerings and He described the leftovers as "most holy."

We all know the stories of how Jesus fed the 5,000 with five loaves of bread and two fish, with twelve baskets leftover (Matthew 14). And how He fed the 4,000 with 7 loaves and a few fish, and had seven sacks of leftovers (Matthew 15). But did you know there's another story involving Elisha and twenty loaves of bread? 

Here, read it for yourself - 2nd Kings 4:42-44 The Message.  

One day a man arrived from Baal Shalishah. He brought the man of God twenty loaves of fresh-baked bread from the early harvest, along with a few apples from the orchard.

Elisha said, “Pass it around to the people to eat.”

His servant said, “For a hundred men? There’s not nearly enough!”

Elisha said, “Just go ahead and do it. God says there’s plenty.”

And sure enough, there was. He passed around what he had—they not only ate, but had leftovers.

Old testament, new testament, it doesn't much matter when we're dealing with God's ability to multiply. When it comes to the Bread of Life Himself, I'll take the loaf, the  leftovers or even any crumbs. 

It's all good.

Prayer:

Father,

          We will gladly eat from the table You set before us in the presence of our enemies and we are more than grateful for it. Give us this day, Lord, our daily bread. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

From Your Heart

O my people, trust in him at all times. Pour out your heart to him, for God is our refuge.

Psalm 62:8 NLT

Have you ever gotten into a rough patch of your life and not quite known which way to turn? You know who God is. It's not that you're walking away from Him, but it feels as though you are a million miles away. That dry place. The desert. Barren. Where it seems no matter what you do, it's not coming out right. It's hard to pray. It's hard to praise. It's hard to breathe... 

King David knew how that felt - he wrote about it in Psalm 63...My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land where there is no water.  David had such a unique way of stating facts, but then he always followed it with Truth.  He goes on to write, I have seen you in your sanctuary and gazed upon your power and glory. Your unfailing love is better than life itself; how I praise you! I will praise you as long as I live, lifting up my hands to you in prayer. You satisfy me more than the richest feast. I will praise you with songs of joy.

In other words, this is how I feel - but what I feel does not affect who God is. No matter what I think or see or feel, no matter the feelings of isolation, no matter the pain level  - these temporal circumstances DO not change - absolutely CANNOT change - the righteousness, the holiness, the character, the very nature of God. And just when you think you cannot stand one more minute, someone calls with a Hi, I was thinking about you! Or you receive a text or email, hey, love u - just wanted u 2 know!

And the friend prays for you and/or with you, and speaks Truth - God's Truth - born out of His love for us. Proverbs 27:9 in the Amplified, reads, Oil and perfume rejoice the heart; so does the sweetness of a friend's counsel that comes from the heart. And God in His infinite mercy and grace does not become exasperated with us, He sends someone to be His hand extended, to touch us with His great love - the love that lifts us up, up, out of the quagmire of our souls.

I never cease to be amazed at the faithfulness and goodness of God's love. It comes from His heart...

Prayer:

Father,

           Let all that I am wait quietly before God, for my hope is in You. You alone are my Rock and my Salvation, my fortress where I will not be shaken. My victory and honor come from You, God, alone. You are my refuge, a rock where no enemy can reach me. Your unfailing love is better than life itself; how I praise you! I will praise you as long as I live, lifting up my hands to you in prayer. In Jesus' Name I pray. Amen

Doing Nothing

I, Adonai, search the heart; I test inner motivations; in order to give to everyone what his actions and conduct deserve.
Jeremiah 17:10 CJB

This Scripture puts me in mind of the Parable of the Talents found in Matthew 25:14-30. I've heard all kinds of perspectives on that particular parable - from putting the fear of God in you to the extravagant mercy of God for taking into account what a person is capable of. From the literal translation of talent as a certain measure of wealth to talents (or giftings) most acknowledge today; i.e. singer, musician, artist, speaker, et cetera (NOT to exclude those rarely mentioned such as faithful, merciful, peacemaker, givers, and so on). From those questioning why they didn't receive certain talents to those who are grateful to have received anything at all. The combinations are almost as varied and numerous as the world's population.

However, despite the innumerable differences, the one thing that must be understood is that the person with the one bag of gold was not punished because he didn't double his gift. He was punished because he did nothing with what he was given.

NO one can say they haven't received at least one thing from God. There is one commonality in all peoples - past and present. We each have been given life. What are we doing with it?

Prayer:

Father,
           Forgive us for not acknowledging You in all things. Help us to see this life as the incredible gift that it is! We pray as Paul prayed,* For this reason we kneel before You, Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. We pray that out of Your glorious riches You will strengthen us with power through Your Spirit in our inner being, so that Christ will dwell in our hearts through faith. And we pray that being rooted and established in love, we may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that we may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of You. We know You are able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to Your power that is at work within us, to You be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

*Ephesians 3:14-21

Priorities

But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”
1st Samuel 16:7 ESV

Did you make any New Year resolutions? The top two resolutions for last year were about making some sort of self improvement or losing weight. Three weeks later, how are you doing with those? What are your priorities? What are you looking for? What's most important to you?   

Maybe you decided this would be the year you would finally read the Bible all the way through but you're already 10 days behind... According to www.statisticbrain.com, 42.4% of "those who make resolutions never succeed and fail on their resolution each year." Before you get totally discouraged, statistics also show that "People who explicitly make resolutions are 10 times more likely to attain their goals than people who don't explicitly make resolutions." Explicitly. Write it down. Remember that God told Habakkuk, (in 2:2 NKJV), Write the vision And make it plain on tablets, That he may run who reads it.  (Not in context, but the concept is appropriate.) Keep it in front of you. Set attainable goals. 

Prioritize. You might never sit down to read all 10 days in one sitting, so you're tempted to just give up. However, you might accomplish two days' reading in one sitting in which case, you'd be back on track in 10 days (or 1½ days' reading and be caught up in the next three weeks). 

You may be asking, what does this have to do with priorities and our Promise for Today? In my mind, resolutions are about decisions to change and setting priorities. Making decisions for better health are good. You'll look better, feel better, live longer perhaps; but God doesn't look at our appearance. He looks at our heart. So are we setting priorities to please people or please God? 

Prayer:

Father,
            We pray as King David instructed his son, Solomon - to know You and serve You with a whole heart and a willing mind because You search all hearts and understand every plan and thought. Your Word promises that if we seek You, we will find You. Holy Spirit, guide us in our priorities. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

How Often

Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.

“Come now, let us settle the matter,” says the Lord. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool. If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good things of the land; but if you resist and rebel, you will be devoured by the sword.” For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.

Isaiah 1:17-20 NIV

I woke up early with a snippet from the song Flawless by MercyMe running through my mind; "Still the truth is, the cross has made - the cross has made you flawless" and then our text for today came to mind, "Though your sins be as scarlet..." 

I find it interesting that of this particular Scripture passage, the only part I had memorized (in the King James Version) was verse 18, Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. How often do we do take just the "Feel Good" portion of Scripture? 

In reading the chapter fully, it's whole message is about a nation whose rebellion is so rampant that God hates everything they do - how they still ritually perform the feasts and festivals, even pray! He won't have any part of it and yet, His love is so great, He offers them a way back to Himself. Always a way back to Himself...

How often do we think it's something WE do that gets us back in right standing with the Father? How often do we get find ourselves entangled in the cares of this world because we've somehow confused those cares for our commitments to Christ? How often do we settle for pepper praying - a little here, a little there - because we're busy "doing life"?  How often do we expect God to settle for less because "He knows how I am"? 

The Truth is God made the only Way to get us back to Himself and His way is flawless. The Truth is it's Who was on the Cross that made us flawless - Jesus the Christ - who gave His life to pay the debt for our sins. The Truth is the only thing WE can do is Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness... (Matthew 6:33). Not as the last resort. First. 

Prayer:

Father,
           Forgive us for less than measures. Forgive us for settling and expecting You to do the same. Forgive us for every time we used You as the last resort. Keep us ever mindful of You first. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Finish It

God is strong, and he wants you strong. So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the Devil throws your way. This is no afternoon athletic contest that we'll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life-or-death fight to the finish against the Devil and all his angels. Be prepared. You're up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it's all over but the shouting you'll still be on your feet.
Ephesians 6:10-13 The Message

I've lost count of the times I have heard this question - "Why can't we all just get along?" And while the truth would be, "Light can't abide with darkness", I also have to remember that we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Although my flesh wants to rip and tear, I am bound by the Word in Romans 12:17-18, Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.

John 3:17 declares that God sent His Son to save the world, not to condemn it. We must remember that we are not to fight people; we're fighting spiritual wickedness. Christ died for all mankind, no matter their political beliefs; no matter their spiritual beliefs or lack thereof. Christ died so ALL would have the opportunity to receive the salvation He so freely offered us. God doesn't love me more than the unsaved heathen who uses His Name in vain.

You won't go to battle and die for something or someone you don't love or believe in. Jesus said in Luke 9, If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross daily, and follow me. Paul wrote, I die daily... Where did we ever get the idea that living a Christian life would be a walk in the park?

So, how do we fight enemies we do not see? Can we go charging after and be effective in routing an unseen adversary? No! We cannot go charging off on our own, under our own power, our own steam. If we're going to fight - and finish - the fight of good faith, we must follow the Leader. We have to follow the Lord. So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the Devil throws your way. This is no afternoon athletic contest that we'll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life-or-death fight to the finish against the Devil and all his angels. Be prepared. You're up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it's all over but the shouting you'll still be on your feet.

What are the weapons? Continue on in Ephesians 6, Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You'll need them throughout your life. God's Word is an indispensable weapon. In other words, don't show up to a sword fight without The Sword.

In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters in the Lord. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other's spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out.

Let's finish this thing. It's time to go Home.

Prayer:

Father,
            Thank You for providing everything we need to do in order to do everything You have called us to do. You are the ultimate Leader. Father, we want to finish this fight with You. Continue to lead us and instruct us. Ramp up our training so we can be effective in winning souls and winning the battles. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Full of It

And some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up with it and choked it. And some fell into good soil and grew and yielded a hundredfold. As he said these things, he called out, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear."
Luke 8:7-8 NIV

If this were a red-letter edition, our Promise for Today would be written in red because these are the reported words of Jesus. Many will recognize this from the Parable of the Sower where Christ talks about the seeds sown, and then He explains that the seed is the word of God (vs 11). 

We have the awesome privilege of caring for my youngest granddaughter this week. (Hence the change in schedule for posting.)  Her parents' focus for her right now is listening - the first time. "Are you listening?"  So, it is verse 8 that lights up for me today. As he said these things, he called out, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear."

However, with ears to hear the whole story, think about what we hear in a day. I think about the old Sunday School song we used to sing, "Be careful, little ears, what you hear. There's a Savior up above watching over you with love. Be careful, little ears, what you hear."  (Do they still teach that song?) The point I'm trying to make is that we are pounded and pummeled all day long from outside sources, and not all of them are good. 

Just like we endeavor to guard our children's ears (and hearts), we should also guard ours! If faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God, then what are we building with everything else that we hear? Doubt? Fear? Confusion? 

Luke 6:45 NIV tells us, A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.  Let's check ourselves. What are we speaking?

What are we full of - the Word or the world?

Prayer:

Father,
           Free us from the unholy that we hear every day through no choice of our own, and please forgive us for the unholy choices we have made of our own volition. Give us ears to hear only You so that what we speak will edify those who hear. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Wanted: Dead or Alive - by request

Look, I am coming soon, bringing my reward with me to repay all people according to their deeds. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.

Revelation 22:12-13 NLT

You've seen one.
Wanted: Dead or Alive!
Underneath is the emblazoned heading is a mug shot of the criminal. Underneath that may or may not be a list of their dirty deeds. Underneath that is ALWAYS whatever the payoff might be - 
Reward! $100,000.

Wanted posters are always about the bad guys. In American TV westerns, bad guys were the ones who did NOT wear white hats. They looked mean. They were usually dirty and unshaven and  had scars. On TV, it was always easy to tell who the bad guys were. 

I wish it was still that easy... Although, from a biblical perspective, and in light of Scripture, it still IS easy to tell who are the bad guys. Based on God's laws, every one of us could have our face on a wanted poster.

Can you imagine having your picture plastered all over town - complete with a list or summary paragraph of all your deeds? Even the one(s) you hoped no one would ever know? That's a sobering thought, isn't it? Especially in light of our Promise for Today - Look, I am coming soon, bringing my reward with me to repay all people according to their deeds. We have to ask ourselves, "According to MY deeds, how will I be repaid?"

The good news today is spelled out in Colossians 2:13&14. In the New Living Translation, it reads, You were dead because of your sins and because your sinful nature was not yet cut away. Then God made you alive with Christ, for he forgave all our sins. He canceled the record of the charges against us and took it away by nailing it to the cross. We have been pardoned. Our sins erased. 

God wants us dead and alive - dead to sin and alive to Him.

Prayer:

Father,
          Cause Your Word to be alive in our hearts and minds. Lord, we want to be and do all that You have planned for us to be and do. We want to be dead to the pull of the world and alive and responsive to only You. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen 

Half or Whole

If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but are yourself lost or destroyed?
Luke 9:24-25 NLT

These words spoken by Jesus would confuse the daylights out of someone who was not a disciple. It's a paradox. A statement or situation that seems to be contradictory - even absurd - but is actually true. Not only is it paradoxical, it's an all-or-nothing edict. We are either going to be a complete success or fail completely. Did you notice there is no half-measure in this?

There is no half in Christ. He didn't get halfway here and then change His mind and go back. He didn't half-heal the people. He did not go halfway to Golgotha. He wasn't half-dead on the Cross. When Scripture tells us He gave His life for ours, there is not ONE mention of half. No place does it indicate that He gave half His life for ours. No buy-one-get-one-half-off. He was completely committed. He gave it all. Should He expect less from us in return?

What will we do with the life He's purchased and paid full price for? Will we hold out? Or will we be sold out completely to Him?

Prayer:

Father,
         You have freely given us everything we need to live by Your design. Let us not put a measure on it, but rather birth in us the desire and the will to give it all for You. No half-measures.  In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Everything I've Got

Hallelujah! I give thanks to God with everything I've got—
Psalm 111:1a&b The Message Bible

Have you ever noticed how easy it is to complain? There is a real propensity to only see the down side of things. We are bombarded by today's media with so-called reality shows - sensationalizing the ugly side of people... not ugly opposite of good-looking. Ugly as in mean and hateful. And then there are the other shows and news programs that prey on people's fears. If we're not careful, we get tunnel vision and all we see is bad. And all we talk about is bad. We can easily become blinded to the good in our lives.

Recently, I was touching base with someone I've only visited with a few times in the last couple decades. At one time, we were in each other's daily lives. And, as we are wont to do, we tend to remember people as they were when last we were with them. We don't allow for the change brought about by a decade or two of time and choices. But here's the great news - at least it was for me.

In responding to her questions, I realized just how much God has done in my life in the last 19 years! How He's caused me to grow in my relationship with Him and with others. How He is the Lifter of my head! How He has patiently - lovingly - taught me how to cast all my burden on Him because He cares for me! I love the way The Message Bible reads in Philippians 4: 12-13, Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am. And because of the opportunity to reflect, to stop and look back - that selah moment - I have been enjoying a praise party! They're the best!

I keep thinking of the verse in that great old hymn, How Great Thou Art.

"And when I think that God His Son not sparing sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in... That on the Cross - my burden gladly bearing, He bled and died to take away my sin!"

Hallelujah! I give thanks to God with everything I've got—

Prayer:

Father,
         Forgive us when we whine and complain and take our eyes off of You and all that You've done to redeem us from sin and save us from ourselves. When I think about all of that and MORE, then sings my soul, my Saviour God to Thee... How great Thou art! How great Thou art! Father, help us to stay focused to think on these good things, according to Your Word in Philippians 4. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

The RIght Track +

I'm not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don't get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I've got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I'm off and running, and I'm not turning back. So let's keep focused on that goal, those of us who want everything God has for us. If any of you have something else in mind, something less than total commitment, God will clear your blurred vision—you'll see it yet! Now that we're on the right track, let's stay on it.

Philippians 3:12-16 The Message

Let's say I make a decision to go buy groceries. Yes, I've made up my mind - that's what I'm going to do. Buy groceries. That is my plan. I have the list right here of everything I need from there. I know the store has everything on my list, too, so I'll be able to get it all. I've even researched recipes and planned the menu for the things I'll buy at the grocery store...

By now are you thinking, "So get to the store already! Quit talking about it and just go!"  And what does that have to do with this Scripture?

In light of our text for today, here's the practical application. We can talk the talk, but unless we put feet to it and walk it, we're not going anywhere. If we're not moving forward - if we're just talking about it - we're no closer to our goal of getting closer to God than when we first started. 

Drop whatever baggage of your past you may be carrying - it is holding you back, impeding your progress. God's promise is that He will make all things new! You have the list of everything you need from Him and HE is everything you need. Run toward all God has planned for you! Get on the right track. Keep moving forward!

Prayer:

Father,

          Help us to see Your plan and purpose for our lives. We repent of holding on to those things in our lives that would keep us from You. Help us to get on and stay on the right track. Quicken us, Father, to keep moving forward toward You. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Losing the Right Weight

I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more. You have already been pruned and purified by the message I have given you. Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me.
Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.
John 15:1-5 NLT

If you've ever struggled with a weight issue, you know there are more quick fix, empty promise, flat-out lying so-called plans and programs than you can shake a fork at.

However, God made the original eating plan. In Genesis 1:29, God said, “Look! I have given you every seed-bearing plant throughout the earth and all the fruit trees for your food." And nutritionists will tell you, fruit is obviously healthy for you - Eat more fruit.

Christ also told us that it's not what goes into the man that defiles him, but what comes out of him, for it is out of the abundance of the heart that our mouths speak. And that's a totally different kind of fruit. Some of it just stinks - Some of it is rotting.

Galatians 5:22-23a NLT tells us, But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. So, if we follow God's plan for our lives then the fruit of the Holy Spirit will be evident in our lives and we'll be healthier because of it. For instance, we will lose the weight of bitterness and unforgiveness and past hurts, just to name a few.

Would you like some more fruit?

Prayer:

Father,
          Thank You for the provision of nutrition for our minds, souls, and bodies. Help us to clear our temple so that You feel welcome in our hearts and there is plenty of room for You. In Jesus' Name we pray.

Go for the Gold

Sin will be rampant everywhere, and the love of many will grow cold. But the one who endures to the end will be saved.
Matthew 24:12-13 NLT

Have you ever committed to a competition that required endurance training if there was to be any hope of even finishing, let alone winning? Endurance training is gruesome. You push to your very limit and then push some more. In fact, usually for endurance training, someone else is pushing you because they don't want to hear, "I can't..." And then a month or so into it, you're DOING what you could only hope you could do at the start. And you keep pushing, and keep going, and keep enduring. Why? Because you want what's at the end of the line. You press toward the prize. I know you know where I'm going with this.

James tells us in chapter 1, verses 2&3 NLT, Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. If you have known me for very long, you have heard me say, "What doesn't kill us only makes us stronger." I believe that. There have been times in my life when it seemed like it would be a whole lot easier to die than to endure. But God would get me through that, and because of the endurance training I received during that trial, I would be able to endure the next, bigger, tougher situation. 

However, I can't say that I've ever been ecstatic or enthusiastic about trials and tribulations. I wasn't looking ahead - I wasn't looking to the hills where my help comes from. I wasn't looking to the Author and Finisher of our faith who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls. (Hebrews 12) Endured! Christ looked PAST the Cross to the joy that was set before Him.

The writer of Hebrews encourages us in 10:35-36, So do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord. Remember the great reward it brings you! Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will.

Just as God for the sake of the Cross looks beyond our frail, human nature so that Jesus can receive us unto Himself, so must we look beyond the trials and tribulations and patiently endure them so that we can continue to do the Father's will no matter what comes our way. It is in the patient endurance that we move into the position to be ready to receive all that He has promised.

C'mon! We're almost there! You can make it! It's not that much longer. Go for the gold - streets of gold!

Prayer:

Father,
            Your Word promises that You are the Lifter of our heads. Hold us up so we can see over this to the promise of eternity with You where there are no more tears. No more pain. No more separation. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Where's the Lid?

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Ephesians 4:29-32 NIV

I think it's safe to say that we have all said something that we regret having said at one point or another. In the heat of a moment, it might have felt good - it might even have felt justified - but when "the look" comes over the face of the recipient... ouch! You know "the look" I'm talking about, right? It makes me feel bad just thinking about it.

We often make excuses or try to justify our action or what we said. "I was right there in the middle of it and I just couldn't take any more!" "You weren't there - you don't know what it was like!" Jesus was in the middle of it, too. His reaction was, "Forgive them, Father, for they know not what they do..."

When we lash out at others, do we ever stop to think that our 'unwholesome talk' can offend the Holy Spirit of God? I know lots of people have no problem thinking that God is mad at them for one sin or another, but does it ever enter our minds that we can hurt His feelings by our thoughtless words or deeds? 

Part of our text for today reads, "And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption." The Greek word for grieve translates to 'make sorrowful' - 'affect with sadness, cause grief' - 'offend, to grieve'. This verse also says we were sealed with Him for the day of redemption. In essence, God "put a lid" on us and our unwanted behavior - He sealed it for us, so shouldn't we do something with the rest of it? 

Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Yep - we should definitely put a lid on it!

Prayer:

Father, 
           Thank You for sealing us with Your Holy Spirit for the Day of Redemption! Help us to get rid of everything in our lives that is not of You. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Love Poured Out

Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results.
James 5:16 NLT

Oh, I can hear some of you now - "I'm not telling anybody my sins. It'd be all over Facebook or Tweeted all over the place."

As a society, we seem to be consumed with presenting the best image; always attempting to show the good side; trying to hide or camouflage the less-than-perfect side of ourselves, our business, our 'whatevers'. That's not always a good thing.

Do we want people to like the illusion we present or the real us? We want to be loved as we are. How many times have we heard someone plaint, "I want them to like ME! ME! Not what I do for them, not what I look like, not my money...etc."

So, what deepens a relationship? Getting real with each other. Letting someone close enough to see the "warts" (the areas we strive to overcome) or the wrinkles; letting someone close enough to love you in spite of those warts and wrinkles, because according to 1st Peter 4, love covers a multitude of sin. And it's in exposing those painful places that love can then be poured out and we are healed.

You'll notice our text is all one verse. The second sentence expounds on the first to more clearly define what is meant. It's a Share, Prayer, Care verse. That does NOT mean share it all over Facebook or Instagram or to anyone who will listen! Use wisdom!

Who are we supposed to confess to? Someone who has an earnest prayer life, and not only that, but one who also walks in righteousness. In such an environment, there is an assurance of perfect love that casts out fear of exposure.

Prayer:

Father,
           We cry out for wisdom!! Help us to see it is the earnest prayer of a righteous person that has great power and produces wonderful results. Bring Your righteousness into our lives so that we may also pour out to others in need. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Losing to Gain

If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake and for the sake of the Good News, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?
Mark 8:35-37 NLT

What'd He say? Hang on and we lose it? Give it up and we keep it? It's the type of thing that confuses those who don't know Jesus as their Savior. Stuff like the last shall be first, and in our weakness He is strength, or like our text, If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. One of the best - Peace that passes all understanding. It makes no sense to the unbeliever. You really can't get a grasp on it until you have a hold on Jesus.

We're living in perilous times. I catch a lot of conversation from where I sit at work. People worry about everything - the country, their jobs,  their finances, their futures. They're worried about their homes being broken into and being robbed because the news and the Internet keep writing stories of increased robberies and burglaries. It's amazing to hear - it all revolves around money. You mess with people's money and it gets crazy. Of course, if the job (money) is their source for life, it's totally understandable. If that's all they have, what do they do? I don't know. I can't answer that.

That's another one of those wonderful things about the Lord. He is NOT diminished by interest rates or elections or world financial fiascos. He does NOT lose value in tough times or when the Dow tumbles. He is immoveable, unshakeable, Rock solid. You want a better interest rate? Increase your interest in Him. You want job security? He's always looking for workers. You want a financial institution that cannot be affected by today's market or some Fed in Washington? Matthew 6:19-21 NLT reads, (Jesus speaking), Don't store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.

How do you store up treasure in heaven? Matthew 19:21 tells us, Jesus said to him, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me. So let's revisit today's text - If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake and for the sake of the Good News, you will save it. Losing to gain. That's upside down. However, if you want a sure thing - there's only One Way...Jesus.

And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?

Prayer:

Father,
             It's true, Your ways are not our ways. We don't always understand. But some things we don't have to understand. Lord, cause us to walk in obedience to Your Word - to walk by faith in You, rather than in what we see. Help our unbelief. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Answered Prayer

For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins. Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election, for if you practice these qualities you will never fall.
2nd Peter 1:5-10 ESV

I met a woman tonight named Lynn. She had a beat up truck, a worn out dog, and a Bible that seemed to be used as a makeshift folder. She was tired... no. She looked more beat up and worn out than the truck and dog combined. She'd pulled up to the gas pump as I was starting to pull away. She half-waved and I stopped and put the window down to ask, "How're you doing?"

My logical brain was begging for my attention, "Don't stop, you don't know if she's got a gun." "You're a sucker for a sob story." "You're not giving her anything." My heart won. As I pulled over, I prayed, "Father, let me say what You want me to say... and please don't let her have a gun..."

As I got out of my car and walked toward her truck, it dawned on me that she might be praying the same thing about a gun... "You see me?" she asked unbelieving. "You rolled your window down to talk to me?" and with my affirmative reply, she began to weep. "You stopped for me..." more tears.

And it pierced my heart. How many times has God stopped for me, seen me, talked to me when I didn't think He would or should...

I prayed with her, gave her what money I had, it wasn't much (normally, I never carry cash) and then we parted... she never did buy any gasoline. I don't remember any of our conversation or prayer except I mentioned the answers were there on her dashboard, pointing to her Bible, and she replied, "I always have that to fall back on." And it struck my spirit - how often do we use God as the back-up plan - something or Someone to fall back on... when everything else we've tried in our own strength has failed?

Prayer:

Father,

           Forgive us for the times we have failed to seek You first. Thank You for the opportunity to be Your hand extended. Thank You for continually teaching us and loving us enough to give us ample opportunities to love. Let us never forget how far You've brought us. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

Remembering Why

Praise the Lord!
I will thank the Lord with all my heart as I meet with his godly people. How amazing are the deeds of the Lord!

Psalm 111:1-2a NLT

How often do we forget the good deeds of the Lord toward us? Oh, we thank Him for salvation, for mercy and grace. For going to the Cross and laying down His life for ours. And we should - ALWAYS!

But how often do we give Him thanks for breath and life and the day-to-day of it? The encouraging word from a friend or even a stranger. The favorite song coming on just exactly when you needed to hear it. For sleep. For bread... You get the picture. We need to remember why we should praise Him. And we should in ALL things.

How amazing are the deeds of the Lord!
All who delight in him should ponder them.

Everything he does reveals his glory and majesty.
His righteousness never fails.
He causes us to remember his wonderful works.
How gracious and merciful is our Lord!
He gives food to those who fear him;
he always remembers his covenant.
He has shown his great power to his people
by giving them the lands of other nations.
All he does is just and good,
and all his commandments are trustworthy.
They are forever true,
to be obeyed faithfully and with integrity.
He has paid a full ransom for his people.
He has guaranteed his covenant with them forever.
What a holy, awe-inspiring name he has!
Fear of the Lord is the foundation of true wisdom.
All who obey his commandments will grow in wisdom.
Praise him forever! Psalm 111 NLT

Prayer:

Father,

           Thank You seems so inadequate and yet we are so grateful for all You do and have done and will do. We cannot fully express our thanks to equal the magnanimity of You and what You have given. We want to grow in Your wisdom and grace, O God! Help us to be like You - just and good and trustworthy, forever true. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

What?

8 Has his unfailing love vanished forever?
Has his promise failed for all time?
9 Has God forgotten to be merciful?
Has he in anger withheld his compassion?
Psalm 77:8-9 NIV

Following her recent trip to Israel, my friend, Hope, sent me a book titled Footprints, Scripture with Reflections inspired by the poem of the same name. I just want to share something from it that has spoken to me today.

*********************
When faced with bewildering circumstances, we are tempted to ask "Why?". But a better question to ask is "What?... What do You have in mind now, Lord?"

Hosea 6:3 NIV
3 Let us acknowledge the Lord;
let us press on to acknowledge him.
As surely as the sun rises,
he will appear;
he will come to us like the winter rains,
like the spring rains that water the earth.

Psalm 55:22 NIV
22 Cast your cares on the Lord
and he will sustain you;
he will never let
the righteous be shaken.

Jeremiah 33:3 NIV
3 ‘Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.’

Isaiah 55:8-9 NIV

8 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways,”
declares the Lord.
9 “As the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts."

*****************************

Prayer:

Father, 

           We certainly don't always understand, but Your Word assures us that You are faithful and trustworthy and full of grace and mercy. We pray believing according to Your Word in Proverbs 3:5-6, that we will trust in You Lord with all our heart, and lean not on our own understanding; In all our ways we will acknowledge You, and You shall direct our paths. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen

No Weapon

Be prepared. You’re up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it’s all over but the shouting you’ll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You’ll need them throughout your life. God’s Word is an indispensable weapon.
Ephesians 6:13-17 The Message

We might not always be aware of it, but we're in a battle of some kind every day. The enemy of our souls is a relentless foe. He doesn't care if you're tired or busy or sick. He doesn't even care if you don't want to fight; that's not going to stop him from fighting you. That just makes his life easier.

The most important thing we have to realize is we cannot fight a war with no weapon. And according to 2nd Corinthians 10, the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but are mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds. We must take up the sword which is the word of God! 

It also frees us from the wage of sin in our lives. For by the Word, the Holy Spirit will guide us into all Truth. And we need the Holy Spirit to do exactly that. If someone says "God said..." then it had better line up with Scripture. if it does not. Recognize it for what it is and move on. 

Just like we will never find a soldier going into battle without his weapon, we cannot do life without the Word of God. 

Know your weapon!!

Prayer:

Father,
          Open Your Word to us for understanding. Let us discern Your Truth and Your Word. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen