Revelation 5:1-6 NLT - And I saw a scroll in the right hand of the one who was sitting on the throne. There was writing on the inside and the outside of the scroll, and it was sealed with seven seals. And I saw a strong angel, who shouted with a loud voice: "Who is worthy to break the seals on this scroll and unroll it?" But no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll and read it. Then I wept because no one could be found who was worthy to open the scroll and read it. But one of the twenty-four elders said to me, "Stop weeping! Look, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the heir to David's throne, has conquered. He is worthy to open the scroll and break its seven seals." I looked and I saw a Lamb that had been killed but was now standing between the throne and the four living beings and among the twenty-four elders. He had seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven spirits of God that are sent out into every part of the earth.
John in the Bible had received a “revelation” of what the last days will hold. In this chapter (a continued flow of thought about the throne room from chapter 4) John sees a scroll with seven seals on it. A search was made as to who could open it and not one in heaven or earth was able to open the scroll and read it and John starts weeping. One of the 24 elders proclaims that Jesus – the lion of the tribe of Judah, the heir to David's throne has won the battle and would be opening the scroll and breaking the seals. It says that John “looked and saw” a lamb that had been killed. I've been thinking about this and I think that like John when we first see Christ – it will be different then we might first think it will be. People have an idea of Him sitting on a throne decked with robes and looking very kingly. I think the picture that John sees is the picture that we will see – a king who has the marks of crucifixion on His body. It will be of a king who has won but obviously shows the mark of battle on His body. When you think about what Jesus endured for us – it is overwhelming. They whipped His body 39 times. They put a crown (probably poisonous) on His head. He was forced to carry His own cross through the streets and was eventually nailed to it. As they lifted the cross up and dropped it into the ground the jolt must have been an overwhelming pain. Then... to hang mercilessly on the cross for hours must would have been a very painful process. So, like John – when we see Jesus (or even as we view Him now in our own prayers and devotions) – remember what He did for us and the battle He fought and won just because of His great love for us.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Monday, August 30, 2010
Open Heart Surgery
Ezekiel 11:19-20 NLT - And I will give them singleness of heart and put a new spirit within them. I will take away their hearts of stone and give them tender hearts instead, so they will obey my laws and regulations. Then they will truly be my people, and I will be their God.
In my High School Science class we would have to dissect frogs or perhaps a lambs heart that had been soaked in formaldehyde. It was a little weird to take that heart in your hand that once was vibrant and beating and begin to cut it into sections. Now it was stiff and hard and was a little difficult to deal with. Our hearts are often like that – hard and callous, un-pliable and difficult to deal with. The harshness of life causes our hearts to move away from tender compassionate heart that God meant for it to be.
Recently I was reading an article about Heart Surgeons and how they have to actually stop the heart for a while and re-start it again to bring it back with vitality.
Seymour Kessler, a surgeon, authored a book that dealt with his own open heart surgeries say, “Open heart surgery is a confrontation with one’s own mortality. Once someone has held your heart in his hand – its beat will forever have a new meaning.” Another doctor, William Knowland, speaking of his own heart surgery said, “In my opinion – it is unlike any other surgery. Of course – I didn’t like the idea of anyone operating on my heart. I accepted it as a necessity – but I didn’t like it.”Imagine that this is a man who does this every day of his life – struggling with the idea of someone else doing that to him. He writes, “What I particularly dislike about the operation is the idea that at some point my heart would be stopped. It had been beating for 47 years – keeping me alive. Now, someone was going to invade my chest and for an hour (more or less) stop my heart. Now, for that hour, I knew that I would be dependent for continued life on the proper functioning, not of an organ made by God, but by machinery put together by people. By people who are fallible.”
Spiritually speaking – our hearts often need open heart surgery. We need for God open us up and work on our heart that has become what it was not intended to be. Ezekiel knew about this full well. He had watched the people end up in captivity because of their sin. He knew that they needed “a new spirit” and “a new heart” that would be pliable and receptive to God. It is my prayer today that each of us would allow the Holy Spirit to do an examination on our hearts to see what it is really like. When we then see how ugly our heart have become I pray that we would each allow ourselves to go under the knife of God to allow Him to reshape us back to where we should be.
In my High School Science class we would have to dissect frogs or perhaps a lambs heart that had been soaked in formaldehyde. It was a little weird to take that heart in your hand that once was vibrant and beating and begin to cut it into sections. Now it was stiff and hard and was a little difficult to deal with. Our hearts are often like that – hard and callous, un-pliable and difficult to deal with. The harshness of life causes our hearts to move away from tender compassionate heart that God meant for it to be.
Recently I was reading an article about Heart Surgeons and how they have to actually stop the heart for a while and re-start it again to bring it back with vitality.
Seymour Kessler, a surgeon, authored a book that dealt with his own open heart surgeries say, “Open heart surgery is a confrontation with one’s own mortality. Once someone has held your heart in his hand – its beat will forever have a new meaning.” Another doctor, William Knowland, speaking of his own heart surgery said, “In my opinion – it is unlike any other surgery. Of course – I didn’t like the idea of anyone operating on my heart. I accepted it as a necessity – but I didn’t like it.”Imagine that this is a man who does this every day of his life – struggling with the idea of someone else doing that to him. He writes, “What I particularly dislike about the operation is the idea that at some point my heart would be stopped. It had been beating for 47 years – keeping me alive. Now, someone was going to invade my chest and for an hour (more or less) stop my heart. Now, for that hour, I knew that I would be dependent for continued life on the proper functioning, not of an organ made by God, but by machinery put together by people. By people who are fallible.”
Spiritually speaking – our hearts often need open heart surgery. We need for God open us up and work on our heart that has become what it was not intended to be. Ezekiel knew about this full well. He had watched the people end up in captivity because of their sin. He knew that they needed “a new spirit” and “a new heart” that would be pliable and receptive to God. It is my prayer today that each of us would allow the Holy Spirit to do an examination on our hearts to see what it is really like. When we then see how ugly our heart have become I pray that we would each allow ourselves to go under the knife of God to allow Him to reshape us back to where we should be.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Trusting In God
Psalms 144:1-2 NLT - A psalm of David. Bless the LORD, who is my rock. He gives me strength for war and skill for battle. He is my loving ally and my fortress, my tower of safety, my deliverer. He stands before me as a shield, and I take refuge in him....
As a kid we lived in an area that was surrounded by mountains and we would often venture through the already blazed trails by generations before me. We would build forts with imaginary enemies or even have battles amongst ourselves. Some of those forts got quite elaborate as we would dig deep and cover them up with camouflage materials. We even brought supplies from home in case our imaginary enemies would bring an attack on us. During the spring time, as the grass around up began to grow, we would stockpile “grass-bombs” to throw out of the fort and eventually at one another. We we're my any moms nightmare coming home every night – with dirt on our faces and all over our clothes. But we had fun and it kept us busy after school and during the summer months. Life has changed. People have grown up. The battles are now real. The imaginary enemy has become real and the fall out and results have and can continue to take their toll. I'm not talking about the physical battle of war but the spiritual battle of the enemy that assaults us every day. Thankfully, our God teaches us about the warriors heart. He teaches and trains us how to deal with the enemies lies and attacks. He has prepared for us a fortress to retreat to when we need strength. He is shield and our rock to strengthen and protect us. Someone once told me about the journey of salmon up stream. As they move against the current they slowly make their way to a place of spawning for the next generation. If they stay in the current the whole time – they will tire out and die. In order to survive – they must do three things – 1 – rest behind a rock 2- swim deep 3- find a quiet pool. It is no different for us. When the battle comes – 1- Hide behind the rock of Christ. 2- Go deep into the things of God and 3- Find a quiet place and renew your heart. Your God so wants you to take refuge in Him today and He will bring deliverance your way - Just trust in Him.
As a kid we lived in an area that was surrounded by mountains and we would often venture through the already blazed trails by generations before me. We would build forts with imaginary enemies or even have battles amongst ourselves. Some of those forts got quite elaborate as we would dig deep and cover them up with camouflage materials. We even brought supplies from home in case our imaginary enemies would bring an attack on us. During the spring time, as the grass around up began to grow, we would stockpile “grass-bombs” to throw out of the fort and eventually at one another. We we're my any moms nightmare coming home every night – with dirt on our faces and all over our clothes. But we had fun and it kept us busy after school and during the summer months. Life has changed. People have grown up. The battles are now real. The imaginary enemy has become real and the fall out and results have and can continue to take their toll. I'm not talking about the physical battle of war but the spiritual battle of the enemy that assaults us every day. Thankfully, our God teaches us about the warriors heart. He teaches and trains us how to deal with the enemies lies and attacks. He has prepared for us a fortress to retreat to when we need strength. He is shield and our rock to strengthen and protect us. Someone once told me about the journey of salmon up stream. As they move against the current they slowly make their way to a place of spawning for the next generation. If they stay in the current the whole time – they will tire out and die. In order to survive – they must do three things – 1 – rest behind a rock 2- swim deep 3- find a quiet pool. It is no different for us. When the battle comes – 1- Hide behind the rock of Christ. 2- Go deep into the things of God and 3- Find a quiet place and renew your heart. Your God so wants you to take refuge in Him today and He will bring deliverance your way - Just trust in Him.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Dealing With Those Who Wrong You
Jeremiah 50:33-34 NLT - And now the LORD Almighty says this: "The people of Israel and Judah have been wronged. Their captors hold them and refuse to let them go. But the one who redeems them is strong. His name is the LORD Almighty. He will defend them and give them rest again in Israel...
One of the sure things in life is that you will have to deal with injustices and wrongs that are done against you. Life at times is not fair as people are selfish and take from you emotionally and physically. You will get the opportunity to practice over and over the principle of forgiveness in your life toward others. Sometimes the hurt is so deep that just a surface forgiveness will not do. You will have to dig deep and get help that comes from God Almighty. Israel had been taken captive from their homes and their country. The devastation of war and famine had left many wounds in them that would take many years to undo. Their captors we're cruel people who abused and maligned them any way they could. They kept the people of Israel captive emotionally, physically and took from them whatever they could. The people of Israel had nothing to hold on to except God. As they cried out to Him – God heard their prayers and He heard brought deliverance to them. God is just – always. He defends His kids. He brings them to a place of rest. Whatever you might be going through today – turn to Him. Let Him defend you and let Him deal with your situation. Remember that the Lord who redeems you is strong. He will deal with those oppressing you and you will be at rest.
One of the sure things in life is that you will have to deal with injustices and wrongs that are done against you. Life at times is not fair as people are selfish and take from you emotionally and physically. You will get the opportunity to practice over and over the principle of forgiveness in your life toward others. Sometimes the hurt is so deep that just a surface forgiveness will not do. You will have to dig deep and get help that comes from God Almighty. Israel had been taken captive from their homes and their country. The devastation of war and famine had left many wounds in them that would take many years to undo. Their captors we're cruel people who abused and maligned them any way they could. They kept the people of Israel captive emotionally, physically and took from them whatever they could. The people of Israel had nothing to hold on to except God. As they cried out to Him – God heard their prayers and He heard brought deliverance to them. God is just – always. He defends His kids. He brings them to a place of rest. Whatever you might be going through today – turn to Him. Let Him defend you and let Him deal with your situation. Remember that the Lord who redeems you is strong. He will deal with those oppressing you and you will be at rest.
At Wits End
Psalms 79:9 NLT - Help us, O God of our salvation! Help us for the honor of your name. Oh, save us and forgive our sins for the sake of your name.
I think most people would relate to this passage of scripture as each and every one of us go through deep trials and difficulties in our lives. There comes that point when all we have left is God and we find ourselves crying out to Him for help, strength and deliverance. Jeremiah just watched the city of Jerusalem fall to the Babylonians. God had revealed to him that this day was approaching but when it actually came – it was a very sad season for Jeremiah and the people of Jerusalem. War leaves such devastation, hurt and pain. It is no different with us as we all struggle with out own hurts, habits and hang-ups. We wonder if we will ever get through that season of pain in our life. We do what we can to help the situation but that is never enough. Eventually, after using up our resources we call out to God because the pain is too much. I've heard it said that we don't change when we see the light but when we feel the heat. That is so true. Fortunately for us – God does hear us when we call and will answer us. It might be a “yes” or a “no” or just “wait” but He will answer us. God is just waiting for you to turn to Him fully and for you to cry out to Him for your needs. He loves each of us so much. He wants to help us and He is willing and capable of doing just that. Call out to Him! Cry out to Him with your burdens. He is there – willing and waiting. He is ready to go to battle for you but is just waiting for you to come to Him first.
I think most people would relate to this passage of scripture as each and every one of us go through deep trials and difficulties in our lives. There comes that point when all we have left is God and we find ourselves crying out to Him for help, strength and deliverance. Jeremiah just watched the city of Jerusalem fall to the Babylonians. God had revealed to him that this day was approaching but when it actually came – it was a very sad season for Jeremiah and the people of Jerusalem. War leaves such devastation, hurt and pain. It is no different with us as we all struggle with out own hurts, habits and hang-ups. We wonder if we will ever get through that season of pain in our life. We do what we can to help the situation but that is never enough. Eventually, after using up our resources we call out to God because the pain is too much. I've heard it said that we don't change when we see the light but when we feel the heat. That is so true. Fortunately for us – God does hear us when we call and will answer us. It might be a “yes” or a “no” or just “wait” but He will answer us. God is just waiting for you to turn to Him fully and for you to cry out to Him for your needs. He loves each of us so much. He wants to help us and He is willing and capable of doing just that. Call out to Him! Cry out to Him with your burdens. He is there – willing and waiting. He is ready to go to battle for you but is just waiting for you to come to Him first.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
When God Shows Up
Jeremiah 33:3 NLT - Ask me and I will tell you some remarkable secrets about what is going to happen here.
Imagine being thrown in jail just because you did what God asked you to do. God had spoken to Jeremiah to tell King Zedekiah that Jerusalem would soon fall into the hands of the Babylonians. In fact, at the present time, the city of Jerusalem was completely surrounded and no one was going in our out of the city. Zedekiah did not want Jeremiah saying anything that would discourage the people and didn't want to hear himself that the inevitable had come – they would soon all be prisoners of Babylon. Jeremiah was imprisoned and eventually the city was completely taken over and destroyed. It's interesting to me though that in the midst of this trial that God speaks to Jeremiah. I'm sure that he was discouraged and was wondering why he was being imprisoned for doing what God had asked him to do. I can imagine that the jail situation was no picnic and was probably quite miserable. Then God showed up when Jeremiah was at the end of his rope. It is at this point that God promises to reveal and bless Jeremiah even more then he could even imagine. When you get to the end of your rope – don't look down – look up. God is still there when we don't see Him and He's still there when you don't hear Him. Jeremiah was at a very low point in his life but God showed up for Him and He will show up for you.
Imagine being thrown in jail just because you did what God asked you to do. God had spoken to Jeremiah to tell King Zedekiah that Jerusalem would soon fall into the hands of the Babylonians. In fact, at the present time, the city of Jerusalem was completely surrounded and no one was going in our out of the city. Zedekiah did not want Jeremiah saying anything that would discourage the people and didn't want to hear himself that the inevitable had come – they would soon all be prisoners of Babylon. Jeremiah was imprisoned and eventually the city was completely taken over and destroyed. It's interesting to me though that in the midst of this trial that God speaks to Jeremiah. I'm sure that he was discouraged and was wondering why he was being imprisoned for doing what God had asked him to do. I can imagine that the jail situation was no picnic and was probably quite miserable. Then God showed up when Jeremiah was at the end of his rope. It is at this point that God promises to reveal and bless Jeremiah even more then he could even imagine. When you get to the end of your rope – don't look down – look up. God is still there when we don't see Him and He's still there when you don't hear Him. Jeremiah was at a very low point in his life but God showed up for Him and He will show up for you.
Monday, August 23, 2010
God Is...
Jeremiah 32:17 NLT - "O Sovereign LORD! You have made the heavens and earth by your great power. Nothing is too hard for you!
Think of the most difficult situation before you right now. Think about the thing that is controlling your thoughts all day long and causing you to not sleep at night. Whatever it is – it is not too difficult for God to handle. If you don't believe that the Bible is God's inspired word – then this scripture will have little effect on you. If you believe that the Bible is God breathed – then you will receive much from what is said in this passage. There are two immutable truths here – 1- God is sovereign – I'm not. In other words – He is God and He controls the universe (that He made) and has all control over everything. I on the other hand can barely control my own life 2- There is absolutely nothing that is too hard for Him. He is all powerful. He can, with just a word, speak things into being and change the course of history. He can do anything He wants. He is an all powerful God. So, you might ask, how does that affect me? Well... for starters – you can learn the valuable lesson of turning your life over to Him fully. Make Him Lord of your life. Give Him your heart, soul and mind. Trust Him with the details – big and small. But you can also do something else – you can come to Him in prayer. He longs to hear your voice. He longs for you to come to Him like a child would come to their Father. He so wants to hear His children's voices and he so longs to be in relationship with each of us. I am blessed today. I know that God loves and cares for me. I know that He is Sovereign and in charge. With boldness I can also say... O Sovereign LORD! You have made the heavens and earth by your great power. Nothing is too hard for you!
Think of the most difficult situation before you right now. Think about the thing that is controlling your thoughts all day long and causing you to not sleep at night. Whatever it is – it is not too difficult for God to handle. If you don't believe that the Bible is God's inspired word – then this scripture will have little effect on you. If you believe that the Bible is God breathed – then you will receive much from what is said in this passage. There are two immutable truths here – 1- God is sovereign – I'm not. In other words – He is God and He controls the universe (that He made) and has all control over everything. I on the other hand can barely control my own life 2- There is absolutely nothing that is too hard for Him. He is all powerful. He can, with just a word, speak things into being and change the course of history. He can do anything He wants. He is an all powerful God. So, you might ask, how does that affect me? Well... for starters – you can learn the valuable lesson of turning your life over to Him fully. Make Him Lord of your life. Give Him your heart, soul and mind. Trust Him with the details – big and small. But you can also do something else – you can come to Him in prayer. He longs to hear your voice. He longs for you to come to Him like a child would come to their Father. He so wants to hear His children's voices and he so longs to be in relationship with each of us. I am blessed today. I know that God loves and cares for me. I know that He is Sovereign and in charge. With boldness I can also say... O Sovereign LORD! You have made the heavens and earth by your great power. Nothing is too hard for you!
Thursday, August 19, 2010
God's Process
Psalm 105:17-19 - “… Joseph who was sold as a slave, They bruised his feet with fetters and placed is neck in an iron collar. Until the time came to fulfill his dreams, the Lord tested his character.”
My wife has often referred to me as a Joseph. As a boy he received a vision from God about his life but didn't see the fulfillment of that until many years later. My life has mirrored that in a lot of ways. Things don't just happen overnight as God has a process for dreams to become a reality. As a pastor, I often hear people talk about their dreams and desires for their life. They will even tell me about the call of God on their life and how they want to serve God in ministry. But when God doesn't do something in their timetable – they lose hope and the dream begins to wane. Joseph's dreams we're God breathed yet there were some obstacles he would have to deal with in reaching those dreams. There would be opposition from his family. His hopes would be shattered as he was sold into slavery. He would be tempted to follow another path and he would be tested in a vile prison for many years. Yet Joseph didn't give up on God or his dreams. He didn't become bitter or did he shrink back from life. In fact, he just became better. He didn't allow the circumstances and obstacles of life to deter him. He was patient and waited for God to fulfill His word to him. He allowed God to build within him character. Each of us will have to be tested about our dreams and desires. It might not happen when you want to happen but it will happen when you will be able to handle what God gives you. Habakkuk 2:3 “This vision is for a future time. It describes the end, and it will be fulfilled. If it seems slow in coming, wait patiently, for it will surely take place, it will not be delayed!”
My wife has often referred to me as a Joseph. As a boy he received a vision from God about his life but didn't see the fulfillment of that until many years later. My life has mirrored that in a lot of ways. Things don't just happen overnight as God has a process for dreams to become a reality. As a pastor, I often hear people talk about their dreams and desires for their life. They will even tell me about the call of God on their life and how they want to serve God in ministry. But when God doesn't do something in their timetable – they lose hope and the dream begins to wane. Joseph's dreams we're God breathed yet there were some obstacles he would have to deal with in reaching those dreams. There would be opposition from his family. His hopes would be shattered as he was sold into slavery. He would be tempted to follow another path and he would be tested in a vile prison for many years. Yet Joseph didn't give up on God or his dreams. He didn't become bitter or did he shrink back from life. In fact, he just became better. He didn't allow the circumstances and obstacles of life to deter him. He was patient and waited for God to fulfill His word to him. He allowed God to build within him character. Each of us will have to be tested about our dreams and desires. It might not happen when you want to happen but it will happen when you will be able to handle what God gives you. Habakkuk 2:3 “This vision is for a future time. It describes the end, and it will be fulfilled. If it seems slow in coming, wait patiently, for it will surely take place, it will not be delayed!”
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Forgive Or Not!
John 20:23 NLT – If you forgive anyone's sins – they are forgiven. If you do not forgive their sins they are not forgiven.
This is a very troubling verse for a lot of people. If gives each of us more power then we know what to do. Does it mean I just stand up and wave my hand over the crowd and say “All your sins are forgiven.” I don't think so. You are not God and you didn't die on the cross. This verse is more about what isn't being said then what is being said. It pertains to the sins that people make against you personally. I have the power to release people from the wrongs that they have made against me. I have the power to release them from the guilt of their sin. I can help them in the healing process by letting them go free and not hold any bitterness or unforgiveness in my life. In fact, this verse has more to say about my own heart and my willingness to be free of any hardness of heart in my own life. As I exercise my own freedom in this area – it will bring freedom to those around me. If I forgive – they are forgiven. As long as I hold onto that grudge or hurt I am in essence causing them to have live out the pain of their wrongs everyday. I can release them or I can keep them in bondage to me. I choose to release them so I can be free myself.
This is a very troubling verse for a lot of people. If gives each of us more power then we know what to do. Does it mean I just stand up and wave my hand over the crowd and say “All your sins are forgiven.” I don't think so. You are not God and you didn't die on the cross. This verse is more about what isn't being said then what is being said. It pertains to the sins that people make against you personally. I have the power to release people from the wrongs that they have made against me. I have the power to release them from the guilt of their sin. I can help them in the healing process by letting them go free and not hold any bitterness or unforgiveness in my life. In fact, this verse has more to say about my own heart and my willingness to be free of any hardness of heart in my own life. As I exercise my own freedom in this area – it will bring freedom to those around me. If I forgive – they are forgiven. As long as I hold onto that grudge or hurt I am in essence causing them to have live out the pain of their wrongs everyday. I can release them or I can keep them in bondage to me. I choose to release them so I can be free myself.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
You Must Die In Order To Live!
John 12:24-25 NLT - The truth is, a kernel of wheat must be planted in the soil. Unless it dies it will be alone--a single seed. But its death will produce many new kernels--a plentiful harvest of new lives. Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who despise their life in this world will keep it for eternal life.
There is a little word in the English language that is not very familiar to a lot of people – it is the word “process.” This is the means that God uses in every Christians life to get from point A to point B. I see a lot of frustrated Christians who are upset at God because of all the problems they are having. They are quick to blame him for all their difficulties but are unaware that they are right where God wants them to be. When Joseph, in the Bible, was given a promise from God that he would someday be a ruler and all his brothers would bow down to him – little did he know that it would be many years and a lot of difficult experiences along the way. In order for him to step into the position that God had prepared for him – he needed to experience some hard times and be tested by fire. There comes a time in every persons life and walk with God that you have to die. You have to die to yourself and to your dreams about what could be. You will have to lay down your life in order for the process to be completed in you. It's not easy and at times you will want to quit but its only in dying that you will truly learn to live and its only in surrendering to the sure hand of God that you will truly begin to understand and do what you we're destined to do.
There is a little word in the English language that is not very familiar to a lot of people – it is the word “process.” This is the means that God uses in every Christians life to get from point A to point B. I see a lot of frustrated Christians who are upset at God because of all the problems they are having. They are quick to blame him for all their difficulties but are unaware that they are right where God wants them to be. When Joseph, in the Bible, was given a promise from God that he would someday be a ruler and all his brothers would bow down to him – little did he know that it would be many years and a lot of difficult experiences along the way. In order for him to step into the position that God had prepared for him – he needed to experience some hard times and be tested by fire. There comes a time in every persons life and walk with God that you have to die. You have to die to yourself and to your dreams about what could be. You will have to lay down your life in order for the process to be completed in you. It's not easy and at times you will want to quit but its only in dying that you will truly learn to live and its only in surrendering to the sure hand of God that you will truly begin to understand and do what you we're destined to do.
Monday, August 9, 2010
God Is With Us - Always!
Jeremiah 1:18-19 NLT - For see, today I have made you immune to their attacks. You are strong like a fortified city that cannot be captured, like an iron pillar or a bronze wall. None of the kings, officials, priests, or people of Judah will be able to stand against you. They will try, but they will fail. For I am with you, and I will take care of you. I, the LORD, have spoken!"
A lot of my life has dealt with insecurities about my identity and my ability to do and be things. I was shorter then most kids and even though I was good at sports – there we're others that we're better. I played the trumplet really well but again there we're others who we're better. I got good grades in school but I was never on the honor roll. I applied for a job as a policeman but was a ¼ of an inch too short. As a pastor I was always being compared to my dad who was very successful and then to my younger brother and sister whose lives also seemed to be very successful. My mind often played over-time with condemnation that I wasn't good enough or ever would be. For me and for a lot of people – its hard to be comfortable in our own skin. We would always rather be someone else or have another life. I can't say that I had an overnight epiphamy but it has been a layered process that has brought me to this wonderful place of accepting who I am and what I'm called to do and be. I love my life. I love my family and I love my job. I am at peace with myself and I know with all my heart that God is with me today. He has protected me over and over from the criticisms of people and made me the man of God I am today. God is with and God does take care of me. I don't have to go around life with my insecurities on my sleeve – I am a child of the king and I am so blessed today.
A lot of my life has dealt with insecurities about my identity and my ability to do and be things. I was shorter then most kids and even though I was good at sports – there we're others that we're better. I played the trumplet really well but again there we're others who we're better. I got good grades in school but I was never on the honor roll. I applied for a job as a policeman but was a ¼ of an inch too short. As a pastor I was always being compared to my dad who was very successful and then to my younger brother and sister whose lives also seemed to be very successful. My mind often played over-time with condemnation that I wasn't good enough or ever would be. For me and for a lot of people – its hard to be comfortable in our own skin. We would always rather be someone else or have another life. I can't say that I had an overnight epiphamy but it has been a layered process that has brought me to this wonderful place of accepting who I am and what I'm called to do and be. I love my life. I love my family and I love my job. I am at peace with myself and I know with all my heart that God is with me today. He has protected me over and over from the criticisms of people and made me the man of God I am today. God is with and God does take care of me. I don't have to go around life with my insecurities on my sleeve – I am a child of the king and I am so blessed today.
Saturday, August 7, 2010
God Loves You SO Much
Zephaniah 3:16-17 NLT - ..."Cheer up, Zion! Don't be afraid! For the LORD your God has arrived to live among you. He is a mighty savior. He will rejoice over you with great gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will exult over you by singing a happy song."
My paternal grandparents had nine kids (3 boys – including my dad and 6 girls). I love to hear the stories of their family growing up and some of the issues of having 11 people in one house. Meals we're one of the those issues – if you didn't get to the table when dinner was called there would be nothing to eat. Transportation was another issue with only one car or truck. They cramed as many as they could inside and some held on to the running boards on the outside of the car. When they went to church on Easter and Christmas - they would take up two pews. It's interesting how my grandmother handled play time around the house. The kids would come and go and she would just sit there in her rocking chair and always had a wash cloth over the arm of the chair to wash their hands or faces if they came up to her. (I think that was a way to give herself some quiet time too). But I think more was happen then just that. As she rocked in that chair – her kids would be calmed by her love. I can just imagine as she looked over her yard and saw the kids playing there was much joy in her life. As they came to her with their needs and squabbles – there was a calming effect that took place because of her love. I can imagine her singing on that porch songs of faith and love and the effect it had upon her kids. Like my grandmother – God tells us to not be afraid because He is watching over us. I am sure that He is rejoicing over each and every one of you – His kids. When we have needs – He is there to calm us. And... can you imagine this – He is singing happy songs over us today. God loves each of us so much.
My paternal grandparents had nine kids (3 boys – including my dad and 6 girls). I love to hear the stories of their family growing up and some of the issues of having 11 people in one house. Meals we're one of the those issues – if you didn't get to the table when dinner was called there would be nothing to eat. Transportation was another issue with only one car or truck. They cramed as many as they could inside and some held on to the running boards on the outside of the car. When they went to church on Easter and Christmas - they would take up two pews. It's interesting how my grandmother handled play time around the house. The kids would come and go and she would just sit there in her rocking chair and always had a wash cloth over the arm of the chair to wash their hands or faces if they came up to her. (I think that was a way to give herself some quiet time too). But I think more was happen then just that. As she rocked in that chair – her kids would be calmed by her love. I can just imagine as she looked over her yard and saw the kids playing there was much joy in her life. As they came to her with their needs and squabbles – there was a calming effect that took place because of her love. I can imagine her singing on that porch songs of faith and love and the effect it had upon her kids. Like my grandmother – God tells us to not be afraid because He is watching over us. I am sure that He is rejoicing over each and every one of you – His kids. When we have needs – He is there to calm us. And... can you imagine this – He is singing happy songs over us today. God loves each of us so much.
Friday, August 6, 2010
Even Though
Habakkuk 3:17-19 NLT - Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vine; even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty, yet I will rejoice in the LORD! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation. The Sovereign LORD is my strength! He will make me as surefooted as a deer and bring me safely over the mountains.
My backyard used to be the Olympic Mountains in the state of Washington where we often went backpacking. It was always exhilerating to hike through the woods or by a stream or over snow capped mountains. I will never forget camping in one of the passes that we're on one of the trails. We had wanted to get over the mountain to a designated camp area but nightfall fell before we could reach our destination so the only option was to pitch our tent along the trail and wait for morning. It was very cold and wind night. Around dawn I began to hear some rustling noises outside of my tent thinking it could be a bear trying to hone in on our food and supplies. Carefully and quietly I tried to open the tent flap to see what was going on outside. To my surprise there we're about 3 or 4 mountain goats chewing on our boots that we had left outside of the tent (for smell purposes). As I yelled at them to move on they all started to scatter up the mountain as one of the goats grabbed a boot as a souveneir. Before you know it they we're halfway up the mountain with one of our boots. It was absolutely amazing to see them move so quickly and with so much grace. We eventually retrireved the boot but I learned a lot of lessons that day about hiking and about life. First – about hiking – don't leave your boot outside – ever! It's hard to walk without shoes. Second – just as those mountain goats we're able to scamper up the mountain when they sensed danger – so God has enabled us to be like a surefooted deer when life is pushing us down. He gives us the means and the way to escape. He leads us and guides us to a place of safety. Today we need to rejoice in our Sovereign God and trust Him that he will always take care of us.
My backyard used to be the Olympic Mountains in the state of Washington where we often went backpacking. It was always exhilerating to hike through the woods or by a stream or over snow capped mountains. I will never forget camping in one of the passes that we're on one of the trails. We had wanted to get over the mountain to a designated camp area but nightfall fell before we could reach our destination so the only option was to pitch our tent along the trail and wait for morning. It was very cold and wind night. Around dawn I began to hear some rustling noises outside of my tent thinking it could be a bear trying to hone in on our food and supplies. Carefully and quietly I tried to open the tent flap to see what was going on outside. To my surprise there we're about 3 or 4 mountain goats chewing on our boots that we had left outside of the tent (for smell purposes). As I yelled at them to move on they all started to scatter up the mountain as one of the goats grabbed a boot as a souveneir. Before you know it they we're halfway up the mountain with one of our boots. It was absolutely amazing to see them move so quickly and with so much grace. We eventually retrireved the boot but I learned a lot of lessons that day about hiking and about life. First – about hiking – don't leave your boot outside – ever! It's hard to walk without shoes. Second – just as those mountain goats we're able to scamper up the mountain when they sensed danger – so God has enabled us to be like a surefooted deer when life is pushing us down. He gives us the means and the way to escape. He leads us and guides us to a place of safety. Today we need to rejoice in our Sovereign God and trust Him that he will always take care of us.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
The Blessing Of Kindness
Philemon 1:7 NLT - I myself have gained much joy and comfort from your love, my brother, because your kindness has so often refreshed the hearts of God's people.
Last night was a very difficult night for me as I sat with a family from our church who was dealing with the fact that their dad/ husband was dying. It was unexpected and it was filled with a lot of pain and anguish. As the night moved on, it became apparent that he wasn't going to make it and at 9:16 PM he finally went to be with Jesus. He and his wife had seven kids between the two of them (two that are still in their teens). Even though that was very difficult and painful and there we're lots of tears – there we're some “up” moments that I would like to talk about for a bit. The kindness of the staff at St. Mary's Hospital was unbelieving. Doctors and nurses wept with us over this loss. They didn't know this man or the family but we're moved emotionally by the loss of this dad/ husband. They went the extra mile to keep him alive. The chaplains did what they could to bring hope and encouragement to the family. People from our church who we're working there or we're there for their own family members who we're in the hospital came and grieved with us. The kindness of all these people refreshed us all. They brought much comfort and love. I know that there is a long journey for this family but I am encouraged today that there are loving friends and family who are willing to walk with them through this journey. Like Paul - “I have gained much joy and comfort from your love...”
Last night was a very difficult night for me as I sat with a family from our church who was dealing with the fact that their dad/ husband was dying. It was unexpected and it was filled with a lot of pain and anguish. As the night moved on, it became apparent that he wasn't going to make it and at 9:16 PM he finally went to be with Jesus. He and his wife had seven kids between the two of them (two that are still in their teens). Even though that was very difficult and painful and there we're lots of tears – there we're some “up” moments that I would like to talk about for a bit. The kindness of the staff at St. Mary's Hospital was unbelieving. Doctors and nurses wept with us over this loss. They didn't know this man or the family but we're moved emotionally by the loss of this dad/ husband. They went the extra mile to keep him alive. The chaplains did what they could to bring hope and encouragement to the family. People from our church who we're working there or we're there for their own family members who we're in the hospital came and grieved with us. The kindness of all these people refreshed us all. They brought much comfort and love. I know that there is a long journey for this family but I am encouraged today that there are loving friends and family who are willing to walk with them through this journey. Like Paul - “I have gained much joy and comfort from your love...”
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Keep Your Eyes On God!
John 5:19 NLT - Jesus replied, "I assure you, the Son can do nothing by himself. He does only what he sees the Father doing. Whatever the Father does, the Son also does.
Jesus models for us in this passage on how to make decisions and how to live our daily lives on this earth. If you are like me – you've made some huge blunders in your life and you've paid the price. Life has taught me that people who are out of God's will lose time, money and energy. As a result – we end up on rabbit trails that take us away from what it is that we're supposed to be doing. I speak from experience. Jesus tells us that He does nothing but what he sees His heavenly Father doing. Everything that we do must first be precipitated by asking God for His divine direction and guidance. That means that we need to have a constant 24/7 connection with God. He is not someone who we only talk to on Sunday or when we attend church. He should be constantly in our hearts and in our prayers. We should be having dialogue with Him all the time. I guess this is where we get the phrase “Walk and pray.” I'm doing life and praying as I go. I am constantly sending up “arrow prayers” to God. I tell Him how much I love Him and am constantly asking for his wisdom and help in my life. Jesus kept his eyes on God and so should we. It will save you much heartache and will help you to always be in the center of God's will.
Jesus models for us in this passage on how to make decisions and how to live our daily lives on this earth. If you are like me – you've made some huge blunders in your life and you've paid the price. Life has taught me that people who are out of God's will lose time, money and energy. As a result – we end up on rabbit trails that take us away from what it is that we're supposed to be doing. I speak from experience. Jesus tells us that He does nothing but what he sees His heavenly Father doing. Everything that we do must first be precipitated by asking God for His divine direction and guidance. That means that we need to have a constant 24/7 connection with God. He is not someone who we only talk to on Sunday or when we attend church. He should be constantly in our hearts and in our prayers. We should be having dialogue with Him all the time. I guess this is where we get the phrase “Walk and pray.” I'm doing life and praying as I go. I am constantly sending up “arrow prayers” to God. I tell Him how much I love Him and am constantly asking for his wisdom and help in my life. Jesus kept his eyes on God and so should we. It will save you much heartache and will help you to always be in the center of God's will.
Monday, August 2, 2010
God Is Waiting For You!
2 Chronicles 33:12-13 NLT - But while in deep distress, Manasseh sought the LORD his God and cried out humbly to the God of his ancestors. And when he prayed, the LORD listened to him and was moved by his request for help. So the LORD let Manasseh return to Jerusalem and to his kingdom. Manasseh had finally realized that the LORD alone is God!
Most people don't make changes in their life when things are going well – but when they are in much distess. We don't change when we see the light – we change when we feel the heat. Manasseh is described in v.2 as a king who did much evil in the Lord's sight. The next few verses go into depth of the depravity that he lived in and brought to the people of Israel – even to the point of killing his own sons in some cultic ritual. He did what he wanted to do in life with no restraints. He tried all sorts of things to bring happiness only to find that his life was miserable and full of guilt. The scripture tells us that while Manasseh was “in deep distress” that he finally sought God and truly repented. God heard his cry and his prayer and brought joy and happiness to Manessah. The rest of this chapter shows how Manasseh lived out his life – doing the things that we're pleasing and acceptable to God. Perhaps you are like Mannessah today – doing and walking in your own ways. Perhaps you have tried to fill your heart with many things and have allowed sin to rule in your life. You have tried to find peace and happiness but only find yourself in misery and pain. The good news is that you can turn back to God today and repent of your sins. Manasseh prayed to God and God “listened to him and was moved by his request for help.” God is willing and ready to listen to your cry of help today – just humbly come to Him – He is waiting for you.
Most people don't make changes in their life when things are going well – but when they are in much distess. We don't change when we see the light – we change when we feel the heat. Manasseh is described in v.2 as a king who did much evil in the Lord's sight. The next few verses go into depth of the depravity that he lived in and brought to the people of Israel – even to the point of killing his own sons in some cultic ritual. He did what he wanted to do in life with no restraints. He tried all sorts of things to bring happiness only to find that his life was miserable and full of guilt. The scripture tells us that while Manasseh was “in deep distress” that he finally sought God and truly repented. God heard his cry and his prayer and brought joy and happiness to Manessah. The rest of this chapter shows how Manasseh lived out his life – doing the things that we're pleasing and acceptable to God. Perhaps you are like Mannessah today – doing and walking in your own ways. Perhaps you have tried to fill your heart with many things and have allowed sin to rule in your life. You have tried to find peace and happiness but only find yourself in misery and pain. The good news is that you can turn back to God today and repent of your sins. Manasseh prayed to God and God “listened to him and was moved by his request for help.” God is willing and ready to listen to your cry of help today – just humbly come to Him – He is waiting for you.
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