Conquering Your Battle

I've spent the last couple days reading and re-reading the words of David in Psalm 56.

We've all heard that trials come, and trials go. We can either worry and fret unendingly over them, or learn from them and of course breathe a huge sigh of relief when the light at the end of the tunnel finally seems to appear. However, sometimes there are circumstances and life events that come at us and it literally feels like an attack on our soul itself. Can you relate? I'm talking about the heart wrenching, tear streaming, at the end of our rope and can't take the hurt anymore moments.

These kind of "moments" are the ones which seem to last for weeks... months... even years.

David had these moments, and he wrote about them in a few of his psalms. For me, Psalm 56 turned on the light bulb over my head on handling such moments, and it's instruction for us on handling them in a way that allows us to escape the sadness, fear, grief, and heartache... and accept help, deliverance and peace over it so we can stand up, move forward, and be thankful!

In this particular psalm, David calls out a prayer for help and deliverance. With a combination of evil doings of others, as well as his own fears and mistakes on his part, he finds himself in a mess that is consuming his heart and mind with grief. He walks himself through his problem in his prayer, and we can have breakthroughs of our own by following example.

First he vented.
David told God his problem. Nowhere in the psalm does it say he called up his buddies, ran to his mommy, ranted on Facebook, or discussed it at the office water cooler. He went to God crying... literally. He spilled his guts about what was bothering him. He explained his worries, fears, and what he was up against. He told God about how the people were running their mouth about him, twisting his words, and hoping he made mistakes they could call him out on. He even told God not to let them get away with it and to cast them down. Of course God already knew and saw what he was going through, but David acknowledged God as his confidant by turning to Him, and Him alone.

Is your workplace causing overbearing stress that overflows into your personal life? Are there relationships in your life that have your heart tangled? Maybe you're young and still in school, but hate going because of the peer pressure and bullying you experience?

When you can't stand it any longer... kneel. Talk to Him. He sees what's going on, but who doesn't feel better after they vent a scenario that has rocked your world. Prayer is communication between us and the throne, so fill Him in with how it's troubling your heart. The words don't have to be perfect. They can be through tears, shouting, or just whispers.

Next he acknowledged his faithful friend.
David didn't go into a "hey God how are you, thanks for hearing me out" before he spilled his guts about his dilemma. But he did acknowledge his listening Friend. He spoke of his awareness that God is with him, he has no need to fear or worry, and in God he can trust the situation.

Your dilemma may be so stressful, heart wrenching, or mind consuming that you forget to acknowledge Him before your rant begins, but as we talk, and clear our minds with our personal Confidant, the peace begins to fall, and it sinks in that we have nothing to fear. He is true to His word, nothing your worst enemy could say or do will be greater than the love of the Lord that can and will get you through it.

Lastly, he gives thanks.
David was still in the midst of his dilemma, but he thanked God as though it was already solved and over with. He knew the battle was still raging against him, but he began speaking as though it was over. He claimed God's word and His promises. He thanked God for delivering him out of the situation.

Your problem, whatever it is, may be compiling around you, building up like a concrete wall that seems to be unbreakable. Circumstances don't matter. He's the Creator of your adversaries, so surely you can trust in Him to handle them for you... because let's face it, His intervention will always be better than handling it on your own. So hold onto His promises to deliver you from it. Go about your day with a heart and mind full of joy. The enemy will come at you telling you it's getting worse, that it's not a fixable situation, and that you're just plain nuts for praising through the storm... but do it anyway. Don't feed into the words of discouragement the enemy whispers in your ear, picking it up and worrying about it some more. Let it go, and call it done.

For thou hast delivered my soul from death: wilt not thou deliver my feet from falling, that I may walk before God in the light of the living?
(Psalm 56:13)

Please Pass the Bread!

It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. (Matthew 4:4)

I love bread.

Bread and butter, garlic bread, breadsticks, bagels, cheese bread, soft pretzels, banana bread... if bread is attached, this girl is in.

Growing up I heard my share of the famous words used by many parents: "You're not leaving this table until you finish everything on your plate".

That "everything" could include anything from a pile of lima beans, a chicken leg with that jiggly fatty skin attached, brussel sprouts, overcooked squash, gristley beef pieces... all of which I despised as a kid... but oh my, that warm fresh from the oven bread topped with butter that accompanied the meal always trumped everything else as far as I was concerned.

As a parent, I now understand the importance of vegetables and meat, the substance of a meal, and I've taught my children that balance at mealtime over the years.

Ironically though, we Christians need to learn the same lesson when it comes to the substance God's word makes available to us.

First there's the bread...

That warm, feel good comfort that comes from hearing how much we're loved and all that Christ has done for us through the cross.

Obviously no dinner is quite right without fresh warm bread... just as such, it's often the reminders of God's love, peace, faithfulness, and goodness that help get us through the hard times we endure.

Unfortunately, many Christians get full on that bread, and forget that there's more, so much more, on the plate set before us.

Enjoy the bread!

But what about the vegetables? We tell our children that the vegetables they're pushing around on their plate will make them healthy and strong. God's word offers the same for us!

Guidance, instruction, and a foundation of morals are provided. When we abide by these, we become closer to and stronger in our walk with the Lord. When we neglect the veggies of the word, we are neglecting the opportunities to grow in our walk with Him and the blessings He wishes to bestow upon us!

Then there's the meat. Sometimes it's tender and easy to chew, other times it's tough and hard to swallow... but it, too, is on our plate to consume.

God's word has its share of meat. There are many topics beyond the "love thy neighbor" and "do unto others" that are either put under fire again and again between fellow Christians, or just out on the back burner altogether, as though they're not clearly written in God's word at all. Just because it's harder to chew doesn't mean we should just spit it out and forget it's there.

Every. Single. Word. written between the covers of the Bible is there for a reason. The purpose? We can't LIVE without it! Sure, it may seem easier to neglect the touchy subjects so we don't ruffle any feathers, but that certainly doesn't lead to the healthy full life of strength, boldness, faithfulness, and endurance that the Lord intends for us to live.

"EVERY word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God" does not mean:

...just the parts that make you feel warm and cozy inside.

...just the parts that we feel comfortable saying "amen" to in church.

...just the parts that make us the cool parent.

...just the parts that keep us active with the "in" crowd.

...just the parts that line up with the worldly things we want to participate in that really aren't that bad or even seem justifiable.

...just the parts that make us look like "good" Christians without having to step out of our comfort zones.

...just the parts that will "win" a debate with another believer (or non-believer!).

God's word isn't meant to be broken apart into pieces for our own conveniences. It's the all in one warm and loving feel good scripture, the instruction and guidance that strengthens scripture, and even the hard to chew (and sometimes hard to understand) scripture.

This is where the importance of balance comes in. Just as we need a balanced diet to keep our bodies healthy, we also need a balanced reverence and application of God's word in our lives to keep our spirits healthy.

Reading His word is knowing His word. Knowing His word brings understanding of His word. Understanding of His word then allows a proper application of His word to our lives. If you're not reading it regularly, you're not applying it regularly.

God wants us to know we're loved and sheltered by His peace... WHILE we submit to his guidance and virtues in our daily living and treatment of others... WHILE also standing boldly in the gap when the world tries to slip in the compromise and rebellion to all that He stands for.

Will we prefer the warm soft bread over the veggies and meat? You betcha! Will we have a hard time trying something new? Of course! Will we gag on the things that are difficult for us to swallow? Absolutely. But... just as we grew up from being a child pushing our food around on our plates, we will mature in Christ through the perseverance, and will be further strengthened by Him!

God is the Father, sitting by us at the table, desiring for us to acknowledge everything on our plate. Since we can't live on bread alone... then it's the eternal life we're cheating ourselves out of when the rest is scraped to the side.

Genuine Happiness

Have you ever heard the saying "money can't buy happiness"? Perhaps you have said, or even overheard someone else say, "If only I (fill in the blank), then I could die a happy person".

I'm a happy person!

Things don't always go my way; obstacles come up; there are schedules to work around that can sometimes be frustrating; children present challenges; traffic piles up when I'm most in a hurry; the sink stops up...... but I'm HAPPY.

Many people will unsuccessfully spend their entire lives attempting to find happiness. Sadly, these attempts are so far from THE way to find happiness, that the lifetime flies by, and so much time is wasted on materialistic items, void relationships, and much heartache along the way. It's important to understand the difference between a happy moment, and genuine happiness.

Did you have an unusually good week at work while the norm consists of simple putting up and avoiding co-workers? Did you fit in a date night with your spouse? Did you find a great sale and finally get the shoes you've been eyeballing for months? Did you take a trip to Disneyland? Did the children bring home a decent report card? Did you enjoy a phone call catching up with a friend that you haven't heard from in ages?

Those are happy moments.

Are you aware that you have the ability to live a life of genuine happiness without giving up happy moments that may come day by day? I say ability, because it's a choice. It's a lifestyle. It's a trust in the One and only One that is the source for genuine happiness.

Psalm 119:35 says:
Make me to go in the path of thy commandments; for therein do I delight.

In my thesaurus, the first available word for delight is happiness. Keeping the Lord's commandments can bring us a happiness like no other. Embracing that happiness will bring you an inner joy that no shoe sale, ride in a fast car, promotion, or amusement park will touch. A genuine happiness overlooks an everyday life circumstance that could otherwise cause frustration, and instead brings forth a smile, keeps a joyful song on your lips, and pleasure in serving others.

The lifestyle change of following those commandments is a struggle, whether you're just recently born again, or have been saved for the last forty years.

1. Thou shalt have no other gods before me.
Anything that comes before God in your life (your spouse, children, career, home, possessions, hobbies, etc) is being made a god in your life. If God isn't being put first, you've made that other person or thing the center of your life... the god you are living to serve.

2. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image.
Is there an actor, singer, or even a neighbor you admire and wish to be like? Be careful you're not making that person your idol, when Jesus has set the example for anything and everything we could aspire to be. Just remember, a "graven image" (idol) doesn't necessarily mean a statue carved of stone, it's anything that impresses you deeply enough to follow it.

3. Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain.
Keeping it put simply, if you're saying "oh my God", I surely hope you're in the middle of a prayer. According to the dictionary, when something is taken in vain,
it is done "without real significance, value, or importance, it is baseless or worthless". None of that describes God, especially the obvious no-no of giving God a last name. Use His name in utmost reverence.

4. Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.
We run our minds like crazy through the week attacking agendas, to-do lists, errands, meetings, and working to ensure our wants are covered. It's certainly not too much to ask to give a day to the Lord, honoring His day of rest. When something is kept "holy", it is recognized as sacred, and dedicated to the service of God.

5. Honour thy father and thy mother.
For some this is easy, because their parents were a genuine role model while growing up. For others, this may be harder... but we are to honour (respect, regard, and serve) our parents. There is a reason God chose them to be your parents, so it should be a privilege to serve them, regardless of past or present circumstances.

6. Thou shalt not kill.
Skipping past the obvious interpretation of this command not to blow away your neighbor with a shotgun, keep in mind there are other ways to kill than with a man-made weapon. There is more power in your words than there is gunpowder in a single shot. If your words to another person aren't uplifting, encouraging, and motivating them to be a stronger and better person... than your words are killing them in spirit. Many of us were taught this at a young age with the phrase "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all". The command and the phrase coincide greatly.

7. Thou shalt not commit adultery.
Although divorce is running rapid in society, there are still many married couples that will go to their grave without cheating on their spouse by having sex with someone else during marriage. With that in mind, also remember that Matthew 5:28 tells us that "whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart". Make no mistake that this goes for ogling the big names in Hollywood just as much as it applies to your next door neighbor or co-worker. Keep your heart and mind pure!

8. Thou shalt not steal.
If you want something, find a way to pay for it or ask God to provide... don't take something that isn't rightfully yours. This includes time. Make sure God gets His share of your day, as well as His 10% of your pay.

9. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.
If you don't know the facts, keep your mouth shut. Running your mouth, gossiping, and being a drama queen not only hurts those around you, but it's displeasing to the Lord.

10. Thou shalt not covet.
God made you a special, unique, and precious individual. Just because you don't have a trust fund, the hottest wife, the biggest house, or the best behaved children, doesn't mean it's ok to look longingly at the neighbor that does. Embrace the life you are in, because God has a purpose for you being right where you are, at this very moment.

Psalm 119, as I referenced to for happiness at the beginning, wasn't just stating that following these commandments was the source of happiness, but it guides us on how to obtain it! We're shown that we can ask the Lord to teach us His ways (Psalm 119:33), give understanding to make it possible to follow His ways (Psalm 119:34), to open our hearts to so we can accept His ways (Psalm 119:36), and to turn our eyes away from the things that will distract us from His ways (Psalm 119:37).

I'm not perfect, God still has a lot of work to do in me. However, the more I strive to keep His commandments, the lighter the spring in my step becomes, the louder the song in my heart sings, and greater the joy that comes my way in doing things with and for others. I encourage you to embrace His commands. Be a set apart Christian that is a doer of the Word, not just a hearer that still lacks the genuine happiness God has in store for you!

It's Time to Get Serious Folks

To many proclaiming Christians, getting into heaven seems as easy and thoughtless as making a quick stop at the store for a gallon of milk.

In fact, I would say many put more thought into what they're going to wear for the day, than they do on The One who woke them up that morning.

Romans 13:14 tells us to "put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ". If you spent hours each morning getting ready, it's all useless and in vain if you haven't put on and wrapped yourself up in the traits of Christ. When you "put on Christ", you're being mindful of the way He lived, the lessons He taught, and the life He sacrificed. You're opening your day to be an example of what He represented and gave His life for.

Consider this scenario:

Jesus wakes up in the morning, says a prayer to the Father in heaven, asking Him to bless His day. He grabs some breakfast, and heads to work as a carpenter. Once He gets to work, he sees John Doe working on a project out of earshot. He leans over to a friend working nearby to fill him in on what he saw John Doe doing the night before. He talks about how hot the woman at the well was. After His boss walks by to check on work progress, Jesus exclaims what a jerk he is and how much he'd like to slap the attitude right out of him. After lunch he's running late getting back to work, and he flips a bird at the guy causing traffic on the path, delaying him even more. Finally making it back to work, He's getting tired and irritated, wishing it were Friday, so he snaps at everyone that speaks to him for the rest of the day. On the way home after work he stops at a nearby pub to have a few drinks with some guys from work to trash talk the boss a bit more. When He gets home for the night, he sits alone, frustrated, trying to figure out why His life is so hard sometimes. Before going to bed for the night, He prays, asking God to make tomorrow a better day.

I don't know about you, but I am most certain this is NOT how a typical day in the life of Jesus went!! So, why is it so many "Christians" think that their typical day can be carried in such a way, yet wonder why their life isn't joy-filled, prosperous, stress free, financially secure, and with blessings overflowing with favor from their Father in heaven??

Look friends, if you want to claim the peace and blessings that come with being a child of God, then it's time to start living like a child of God. Gossip in the work place or at school, negativity and the sharing of unGodly things on social media, belittling your spouse, being two-faced and harsh to friends and/or co-workers, putting yourself before others... none of these are the traits of Christ.

Jesus will be coming back to claim a pure and holy people... not those who claim it and say an occasional "thank you Lord", yet live a life based on their own fleshly desires and fly by night thinking. I'm not pointing fingers, I am well aware of "he that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone" (John 8:7). However, having put on Christ, I am given the boldness to shush the nonsense and filth spoken in my presence. I am able to share compassion with others that He has shown to me. I am given the chance to be an example rather than one that ridicules out of frustration or hate. I have the opportunity to love those who are least lovable.

Spend some time reviewing your last week. How much of your time was spent belittling, criticizing, complaining, lusting, being lazy, and thinking of yourself? Now compare that to how much time was spent showing compassion, forgiving, encouraging, saying I love you, uplifting those around you, putting others before self. After comparing the two, is it time to set some goals and pray for strength for making changes?

Only you can decide to follow through with those changes and make it happen! Put on Christ each morning and realize that being a Christian is being Christ-like. It's not just slapping a title on yourself with an accompanying free pass into heaven, despite how you live your life.

I urge you to take this seriously...
Your time here is precious, don't waste another minute of it!

The Personal Pity Party - Do Not RSVP!

Today it happened. I showed up to the biggest pity party I've seen in quite some time.

There weren't any balloons, streamers, snacks, or gifts at this party, but boy was I completely wrapped up in it anyway.

Pity parties are pathetic, and yet, there I was full-fledge, right in the middle of one... two of my children even took witness to some of it this afternoon. My 100% concentration was on everything I was either in the middle of doing or [thought I] needed to do before the sun set on my day.

Endless issues with the washer repairman. Hand washing certain items needed until my washer is back in order. Getting paperwork figured out for the building inspector. Following up with the bank over issues that are holding us up with progress on the house. Cleaning up actual messes made during progress that has been made on the house. Sorting and getting rid of an attic full of stuff that's in the way. Chickens sneaking on my porch pooping everywhere. Getting my son to concentrate on his math, science, and English homework. Permission slips needing signed. Picking up wind-blown items from all over the yard. Filing paperwork so it doesn't come up missing when I need it most. Phone calls. Dishes. Sweeping. Mopping. Dusting. Garbage overflowing. Scrub the toilets. Unclog the bathroom sink. Feed the dogs. Oh, did I mention I forgot to lay something out for dinner in the midst of all of the above... and I still haven't had my stinkin' shower yet?!

I fled upstairs to "take a breather away from it all", and yet the party followed right along, and I sat in a chair basking in it... tears and all.

I can't do it all, my plate is too full, I'm exhausted, my back hurts, my head is pounding, there's only one of me, why can't anything go right just once, I need 24 more hours in my 24 hour day, why me??

See, it was pathetic.

But then I felt a little tap on my shoulder. Not a physical tap, but more like one of those that very well could have been a great big slap in the face, but since it was done with such love it came across as a little tap just enough to get my attention. I picked up my bible and opened it up. I don't believe in coincidences, so I'm quite positive the Lord intended for it to open up to Hebrews chapter 12.

It started with this...
Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
(Hebrews 12:1-2)

Wouldn't you know it... I had allowed myself to get so flustered with all the "stuff" going on around me today, that I completely missed out on what the purpose of my day could have been all about. I wasted my energy and time, lashed out at my kids, and allowed it to be about me-me-me when that's not at all what my day should have been about.

Yes, I had stuff to do... but these are responsibilities that I have been given because the Lord knows I can handle it, especially with His help of peace and assurance. I allowed the enemy to take these responsibilities entrusted to me as a wife and mother, and turn them into a way to entangle me, hindering what could have been a wonderful day!

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.
(Philippians 2:3-5)

Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world.
(Philippians 2:14-15)

I wasn't having the heart of a servant, or focusing on the attitude I was reflecting. Hebrews 12:15 says Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled... meaning that it was my choice today to decide whether or not to allow a bitter root to grow up and devour me and those around me. Pity parties feed those bitter roots.

So, if you're having a similar day, or perhaps just get easily caught up in pity parties, let's determine how to avoid these moments shall we?

Think about the good, not the bad! Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things (Philippians 4:8).

Have an attitude adjustment! Pity parties are so damaging to our day. Within minutes they can turn what could have been a great day that ended with a smile, into a hair pulling, stress elevating mess... making us look like we walked through a tornado of crazy. Was is worth it? Nope. It didn't make it better, it just wasted time. The issues and "stuff" are all still there to be dealt with. Ask the Lord to open your eyes to those pity party fits before they set in, so they can be stopped in their tracks.

Take a break! It's okay to take a walk, pick up a book (extra Bible reading time!), or just sit and chill with a glass of iced tea! Walk away from what's causing the urge to yank your hair out and collect your thoughts. Decide that the moment or circumstances will not effect your day in a negative manner.

Follow the advice of Hebrews 12:2 that I quoted above... Look to Jesus! Think about all the awful moments He suffered for me and you! How pathetic does our situation truly look when compared to the life He lived here for us?

Write it down. Jot down every single thing that is creeping into your mind trying to snag your day away from you. Every circumstance that the enemy is trying to drag you down through. Then walk away from that piece of paper and attack your day with a shield of faith. It's quite possible you'll come across that note a few days later and have a giggle at how frazzled you almost allowed such petty situations get you.

Perhaps it really is something big going on in your life. Pray for wisdom over the situation(s) and leave it there. Deal with it as the Lord gives you insight on how to handle it... and don't touch it until then.

Bottom line my friends, when you get a personal invitation to a pity party... do not RSVP! Instead, embrace your day and be thankful for who you were made to be and what you are entrusted to accomplish in it.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm not going to take the time for a spell check or grammar review, I have a couple kiddos to apologize to...

Follow the Leader

In observation, I'm noticing there are a lot of titles when it comes to people claiming to be saved, born again, heaven bound, or however else it can be put. For the most part, those that are claiming Christ as their source of faith, the term "Christian" is pretty wide-spread. Please note, I am aware there is a list of different denominations, but to stick with my point I'm summing it up here as Christianity.

With most social media websites, there is usually some sort of blank to fill in when it comes to "religious views". I'm trying to figure out why these spaces are filled out with "Christian", yet posts to the same profile are giving God a last name, among other things that likely make the Lord weep.

Claiming Christianity used to mean something. But frankly, it's a term now. A title. A word used to throw it out there that hey, I go to church, I own a Bible, I say "Thank you God", I bow my head and say grace over my food when I remember to.

You may sense a frustration in my writing, but quite frankly, if you truly serve the same living God I do... the one who was crucified for our sins before we even existed, buried in a tomb, walked through hell, rose from His grave three days later, and ascended back into Heaven, all for the forgiveness of our selfish iniquities... then it should frustrate you too, that "Christian" has just become another word thrown around.

Bear with me for a moment while I break down this term to clarify a few things that I'll be coming back to...

Christianity   [kris-chee-an-i-tee]
noun
- the state of being a Christian

Christian   [kris-chuhn]
adjective
- of, pertaining to, or derived from Jesus Christ and His teachings; a faith.
- exhibiting a spirit proper to a follower of Jesus Christ; Christlike

Christlike   [krahyst-lahyk]
adjective
- like Christ; showing the spirit of Christ.

Believe   [bih-leev]
verb
- to have confidence in the truth, the existence, or the reliability of something, although without absolute proof that one is right in doing so

Follow   [fol-oh]
verb
- to go or come after; move behind in the same direction
- to accept as a guide or leader; accept the authority of or give allegiance to
- to conform to, comply with, or act in accordance with; obey
- to follow orders; to follow advice
- to imitate or copy; use as an exemplar

Now, I'm well aware of sin. I know we all have, we all do, and we all will sin again. But how many claiming this term on Sunday mornings or even on a Facebook profile "religious view", are truly striving to live up to its basic dictionary definition? Christian... follower of Christ... deriving from His teachings... showing the spirit of Christ...

A follower of Christ should be one who is compelled and in an intense pursuit of the God's will throughout ALL they do. Not just when it's convenient, fits the schedule or event, and seems like the thing to do because of present company. Failing at the attempt will happen... I'll be the first to admit I fall short... but the constant pursuit must remain.

Notice the difference between the definitions for "believe" and "follow". So which definition most accurately describes your "religious views"? Do you believe in Christ, or do you follow Him? Believing is a one time thought... just like some used to believe in Santa, the tooth fairy, and the Easter bunny... a belief can come and go.

Ah, but when you allow yourself to trust, when the YOU is humbled down before the Almighty, when you set out on a journey to put your feet into the footsteps led before you... that my friends, is a follower.

Just as basic definition a follower obeys, and conforms to whatever it is being followed. So as a Christian, one who is claiming to follow Christ, shouldn't our actions, words, and habits attempt to conform to the footsteps we're following? There should be obedience to ALL God's Word has laid out for us.

If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.
(John 14:23)

Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it.
(Mark 8:34-35)

So there are only two choices, just as there are only two sides to a fence... we're either followers of Christ (Christians), or we're not.

He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.
(Matthew 12:30)

It's so easy to say "I believe"... but to say "I will follow" is a life long commitment of the heart. If Christ were standing before you looking you eye to eye, asking you, a believer, if you would follow. How would you answer? He did that with some, and He got the "I will, but..." response:

And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God. And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.
(Luke 9:59-62)

The "buts" didn't follow Him. Would you have given the "but Lord" excuses? A faithful follower doesn't look at how hard the path is. Regardless of storm or sunshine, the steps are sought out. The end reward is so much sweeter with an eternity of life everlasting to look forward to.

Will you follow the Leader to eternity? All we have to do is follow the path He led.

No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
(Matthew 6:24)

Cheese and Crackers

In a devotion this morning I read a short story about a man who struggled and penny-pinched to saved his money, until he was finally able to travel on a beautiful cruise ship as he had dreamed for so many years. It was all he could do just to scrape together enough to buy his ticket.

Figuring he was lucky enough for the cruise ticket itself, and wouldn't have enough money to buy the meals in the ship's fine dining room, he decided to take along some cheese and crackers for food.

For several days during mealtime he sat in his cabin eating his cheese and crackers, as the stewards passed by with carts full of fresh lobster, warm baked bread, juicy prime rib, decedent desserts, fresh fruits and vegetables.

He just couldn't stand it any longer. He reached out, grabbing one of the stewards and begged for a plate of food. "Please, help me. I'll go to work, I'll scrub the deck. I'll do anything to get something to eat. My cheese and crackers are turning stale, and I'm starving to death."

"But, sir," the steward replied, "don't you know? Your food comes with your ticket for the duration of the cruise!"

Oh my! How many Christians live out their lives the way this man did on his dream cruise. They settle for being "cheese and crackers" believers, living off the basic rations available, when they could be dining on the steak and potatoes! By allowing the Holy Spirit to open their eyes to everything life could have in store for them, they could be enjoying the savory fruits of the Spirit... love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance (Galatians 5:22-23).

Why choose a life of spiritual poverty allowing ourselves to get stale? I have had my share of being a "cheese and crackers" Christian. I allowed myself to settle for the bare bones of salvation. At times I convinced myself that's all there was for me, so it became all I really expected. I was okay with what the world thought being a Christian was. Thankfully though, my spiritual hunger got the best of me, stirred up my senses, and I surrendered my life to Christ as He intended!

Trust me friends, nothing can satisfy like Him, certainly not the cheese and crackers we too often settle for. Feast on the abundant life Christ provided for you!

I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
(John 10:10)

Living What We Learn

Picture this scenario for a moment:

The owner of a company that employs a few hundred workers was preparing himself for an extended business trip out of town. Before he left, he sat down and wrote a lengthy letter of guidance and instruction, including detailed projects he wanted accomplished while we was away, clients he wanted contacted, and tasks he expected his all his employees to do while he was away. He finished his letter and put copies of the letter in each employees inbox to ensure they all had a copy to be read.

Satisfied that all loose ends were tied so they could be successful while he was away, he headed to the airport, and boarded his plane.

Several months later, he returned. Upon his arrival he immediately noticed the grounds hadn't been maintained. The grass had obviously not been cut in weeks, the lawn was littered with trash and debris, the shrubs and trees needed trimming, and the doors were marked with hand-prints and scuffs.

He parked his car and hurried inside. Employees were lounging in their chairs, drinking coffee and talking, feet propped on desks, and most weren't even dressed in appropriate office attire. A ping-pong table had been set up, and an array of video games littered the flat surfaces. His arrival went completely unnoticed.

Angry, he called a meeting of the entire management staff. When they all had gathered, he began his tirade.

"I can't believe what I'm seeing! Everything is completely different from what I expected it would be. What has been going here? Didn't you get my letter of guidance and instruction?"

Their faces brightened, and someone replied, "Yes sir, we did. We love that letter. We read it almost every day."

"In fact," said one man, "I've even memorized several paragraphs from your letter."

"It's terrific reading," others chimed in.

Another spoke up saying, "Sir, we've organized some study groups. We gather at least once a week and re-read portions of your letter to make sure we understand it all, and even debate on what we do and don't agree on. That's usually when we take a break, before things get heated. We've figured out if we don't discuss it much then there won't be any arguments here in the office."

Dumbfounded, he asked his employees, "But did you finish the projects? Did you call the clients? Did you do the things I asked you to do?" At that, everyone looked down. One man finally spoke on behalf of the group, saying, "No sir... you see, we're still studying your letter."



You see my friends, our problem isn't whether or not we fail to understand certain biblical truths or concepts. Our problem is actually living out the truths and concepts that we do understand. Each and every one of us have all been trusted with a letter from God. A letter from the boss Himself, our King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Are you content to simply read the letter He left for you? Perhaps study it, maybe memorizing pieces of it here and there so you know all the right quotes and things to say when questioned?

When are you going to put it into practice?

It's one thing for Christians to say, "We believe the Bible!" However, it's quite another to behave as though we believe. Not just the part of His Word that we decide to make time for, not simply the parts that are convenient or easy to accomplish, and not just portions that already line up with how we feel or what we've been programmed to think all our lives...

Rather, all that we know and have learned through our own reading and studies should be applied. You see, once we know what the scriptures say, we are accountable for applying those instructions and teachings!

Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.
(James 4:17)

You see, failing to do what God wants us to do is just as much a sin just as doing what God has told us not to do.

Daily reading, doing bible studies, and memorization of God's Word, are all wonderful ways to grow closer to the Father and build up our relationship with Him... and we should be seeking out more of what the Word of God has for us! However, the goal of reading and bible study is not simply to determine what it says and what it means, but to apply what we read and study. It's not just there for information, it's there for transformation! His word should be boiling over into our hearts, not just stacked up in our heads.

All scripture is inspired by God, useful for teaching, reproof, correction, training.

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.
(2 Timothy 3:16-17)

Teaching shows us what is right. Just like a compass, the Bible always points us in the right direction.

And the Lord shall make thee the head, and not the tail; and thou shalt be above only, and thou shalt not be beneath; if that thou hearken unto the commandments of the Lord thy God, which I command thee this day, to observe and to do them.
(Deuteronomy 28:13)

Reproof shows us when and where we are wrong. When we look into God's Word, we can see ourselves more clearly, and where changes need to be made when we're truly honest with ourselves.

For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.
(James 1:23-25)

Correction shows us how to make things right and get on track so we're making a difference for God's kingdom, and being more of a Christ-like example for others to follow. Just as we correct our own children when they lie, throw tantrums, or slack in studies, scriptures correct us in the faults we make daily.

Training in righteousness develops discipline to live right, even when it's not easy to do. This training comes through practice. Putting God's Word into place within our lives. We're not perfect, we will make mistakes, that's why it's called practice. But as the saying goes, practice makes perfect.

Application then begins to take place as we are confronted with the truth we read/hear/study, and we respond to that truth with faithful obedience. If we don't apply the scriptures we read, study, and memorize, we're only cutting short the entire process, and haven't finished what God wants us to do!

Let's make our beliefs and our behaviors one and the same, all for the glory of God. Then may we find rest in knowing there will be no shame when He unexpectedly returns!

Prayer Changes Nothing

Say what?? Okay, so if you read the title of this post and you're already looking for the comments section so you can correct me by giving example after example of all the answered prayers in your life... breath, and give me a moment.

And said, I beseech thee, O LORD God of heaven, the great and terrible God, that keepeth covenant and mercy for them that love him and observe his commandments: Let thine ear now be attentive, and thine eyes open, that thou mayest hear the prayer of thy servant, which I pray before thee now, day and night...
(Nehemiah 1:5-6)

First of all, our prayers are spoken into the wind if we are not first recognizing that God has sovereign power and authority... the King of Kings... and we are here as His servants. When praying a prayer that is genuine and heartfelt, we are recognizing Him on his throne, and our place before Him, humbly at His feet.

It must be acknowledged that when we pray, whether knelt beside a bed or couch, driving along in our vehicle, or in the pew at church... our prayers are not us having our way with God. Quite the opposite, it is God who is having His way with us!

Subconsciously at times, we tend to take to prayer as though we are manipulating and convincing God to give us our way, grant us a request, or hear our babbling. We're not in charge at that moment... rather, it's God doing a work in us... influencing, controlling, and putting the pressure on us to surrender completely to Him! Quite simply... If you're not willing to change, have an attitude adjustment, submit to His will, and apply some serious elbow grease to our own situation, then don't bother praying. It's OUR place to change, not God's.

We need to think about God's position. Seriously, picture it. Do we honestly think this great and mighty being, who created all things, and has every hair on your head numbered, could ever be caught by surprise, or let things get out of control according to HIS will? We have no room to try convincing God to change His mind. His plan will always overpower, outweigh, and over-shine ours.

Ah, but what about moments in God's word where God changed His mind?? Keep reading the content, because even then, God was unchanging. In the above referenced scripture, Nehemiah called out for favor on his people, and the situation changed... but it wasn't God that changed His mind deciding to grant Nehemiah his request. Something did change... but it certainly wasn't God's will... it was Nehemiah's heart.

So to clarify the statement made in the post title, prayer changes nothing about the situation or circumstance. It doesn't change God's mind, or make you a head haunch-o that has this miraculous ability to move the earth and change the world. Quite the opposite, prayer moves US... it changes everything about US! How we view a moment, how we handle a situation, how our attitudes approach a moment, how we let go, and submit wholeheartedly without resistance to the Lord, and His plan for us. The change isn't in God, the change is our perception, reaction, and faith in an enormous God that already has it all under control.

Wake Up and Smell the... Blessings?

Yesterday the weather proved to be a perfect day for me to get the garden underway now that the cold front threats seem to have dwindled.

Seven hours later when the sun began to make its final descent I was pleased to see that a nice 3/4 of it was complete. A bonus to the day... seven hours of what turned into some one on one God time. I would like to be able to say it was seven hours of happiness and smiles, but it wasn't. I was corrected, humbled, and even had a few crying moments.

It began as I walked out there earlier in the afternoon to the 70-something foot by 30-something foot area prepped for planting. I remember just standing there looking at it for a moment, thinking, My God, what have I gotten myself into.

You see, I've been looking forward to getting the garden going for a couple months now. I've had standard gardens before, but this year, the idea of having a full-fledge garden to eliminate the need for fresh vegetables and fruits from the grocery shopping list just seemed like a smart idea. This new garden is set up for every vegetable and vine fruit you can imagine, and then some.

However, even with a garden area that size, I don't have the fancy tools and gadgets for easy planting, I don't even own a tiller... in fact, I realized as I stood there that I didn't even have a clue where the basic garden hoe and shovel had grown legs and walked away to. And yet, I had pounds of seeds (yes, pounds) to plant in the ground so the family would be set for a year on fresh, home-canned, and home-froze veggies.

Have you ever been stoked and completely blank at the same time? That was me, in that very moment. But I was determined. The grocery bill will decrease because of this. I will get some fresh air and time in the good outdoors because of this. Others would be blessed with the harvest drawn in from this.

So I took a large metal serving spoon (don't laugh... I use what I've got!), and started digging rows to drop the seeds into, carefully checking each type of veggie, and the amount of spacing each one required. I was enjoying myself. The sun on my face, dirt on my hands (and arms, and knees, and face, and under nails, and in my shoes...), my Chihuahua fur-babies running and playing around me... it was going great.

A little at a time my hands started getting sore, I began to get sweatier and sweatier, my mouth got dry and parched, and the dogs started irritating me as they ran back and forth over my perfect little rows. The disgruntlement started setting in. I trudged into the house to pour a glass of tea, and set back out to my project. I felt like I had already been out there for several hours, and as I approached, I had a pathetic five rows done. I plopped down on my butt right there in the dirt and just looked around.

Then the mumbling began. Oh, and the pity party... I can't forget that... because that's when the correction began. You know how they tend to start right after you try going to God with a "woe is me" attitude?

Shame on me! Oh I wanted the ground to open up big enough to swallow me up (as though I'd be hiding from God there, right?). I don't consider myself a complainer. I really do like trying to look for the best in every situation. In fact, there might even be a couple people that read this that can admit to getting irritated with me because I worry very little about things, and have been accused on quite a few occasions of being passive, when in actuality I just like the bright side of a situation... the gloomy side is yucky and depressing! Yet here I was, being Miss Debbie Downer.

So yes, there I was still sitting in the dirt. I caught a whiff of the fresh air, and I heard "wake up and smell the blessings". Uh, Lord, roses... the saying is roses. Wake up and smell the roses. And that's one thing I don't have planted around here. "No, blessings. You're thriving daily in a garden of blessings I have provided you, and you're feeling sorry for yourself?"

I'm willing to bet if that moment were captured on camera, the photograph would reveal my jaw dropped wide open.

Don't get me wrong, I'm very aware of the blessings in my life, and am forever grateful for them. But a layer was peeled off my spiritual eyes at that moment, looking deeper into my blessings.

One of my favorite shows to watch is Little House on the Prairie. There I sat imagining myself placed back in the days of Laura Ingalls Wilder and the life they lived. If they wanted food to eat, they hunted or grew their own (no exceptions like a trip to McDonald's if crops were ruined or the game got away). If they wanted water, they hiked to a creek, filled a bucket, and used it sparingly and wisely. If you want shelter to call home you build it from the ground up yourself (without electricity or plumbing) and windows were a special (and costly) bonus. When Charles Ingalls needed work, he would walk for days to get to other towns to earn a dollar or two for a weeks work (and that was on a good week).

We are so selfish. Where is it written that we are entitled to the quick and easy way out of everything we do? Can you imagine if our current generations were time warped back into the Little House on the Prairie days without promise of return. How many would long for the chance to return to their own life, realizing just how blessed we are with things as simple as running water, cars for running errands, grocery stores nearby for a quick dinner run (including a stocked meat department). How long would one last, hunting for and growing all their own food, fetching water from a creek, walking to other towns for pennies per hour of work, sewing their own clothes...

No Facebook games or videos to occupy laziness or idle time, no shopping malls or car dealerships to accumulate debt, no nail salons, no cell phones, no fast food joints when there was a night you just didn't feel like cooking, no video game consoles to keep you from interacting wholesomely with your children, no ESPN...

Just hard-working, living off the land, pure interaction with those in your lives.

Suddenly I was joyfully working in the garden. It blessed me to have the privilege to put my time, hard work, and effort into a source that would provide for my family. With the blinders off, it took on a different perspective. Yes it was hard work, but I felt good when I walked back into the house. My eyes watered when I stood before my refrigerator pressing that lever on the front that dispensed cold fresh water into my glass.

We're so spoiled, and we need to realize that blessings most certainly come in forms we too often overlook. If it takes heaven opening up and angels singing for us to recognize we've been blessed, then it's time to reevaluate our way of thinking. Complaints, grumbling, fuss, and disgruntlement are EVERYWHERE, while the "woe is me, life is too hard" syndrome takes over.

Recognize it, confront it, and get over yourself. We live in a garden of blessings... so wake up and smell your blessings!

For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world.
(Philippians 2:13-15)

An Anchor of Hope

Hope. It's such a happy word. It's a smiling, healthy attitude for the heart. Any time one truly anticipates something good it brings comfort to the mind and heart.

However, feeling hopelessness is an awful feeling one could have. It's depressing and overwhelming all at once to feel at a point that nothing you're up against could possibly be resolved or changed.

For the one having lost all hope, life can seem like a long dark tunnel leaning absolutely nowhere. Proverbs 13 gives us a clear description of what results from this intense and burdensome feeling.

"Hope deferred maketh the heart sick..."
(Proverbs 13:12)

Just as the body gets weary when lacking powerful immune system boosters such as iron and vitamin C, the heart also weakens without hope. Physical, emotional, and even mental illness can creep up on a person feeling trapped in a dreary position.

But here comes the good news... As long as God is God, there will never be a circumstance, situation, or problem considered hopeless. We have a promise contained in the rest of that verse from Proverbs!

"...but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life."
(Proverbs 13:12)

We find here a hope that anchors our soul! Anchors used to be highly regarded years ago in the Mediterranean. The economy was dependent on shipping goods from far and wide, and to those enduring the travels, that anchor was a strong symbol of calming and steady safety.

Hebrews 6:13-20 uses the word anchor in such a sense, giving reminder to believers that God provides a hope sure to hold firm in the midst of any storm.

When ALL our desires are placed before God and we seek Him diligently over the circumstance (Psalm 38:9), those desires WILL be granted (Proverbs 10:24) when the desired result is to honor the Lord (Proverbs 11:23).

Because of Christ, we have access to the throne room of heaven, the place available to us to cast every care, every burden, before a great and mighty God with unlimited power and authority over all things. In this we have the ability to cling to Him through any trial we stand face to face with.

Through God's abundant love, strength is provided for weary bodies, comfort for grieving hearts, and peace for an anxious mind. Simply put, He brightens that darkened tunnel and gently guides us through the most trying of situations.

Only through this anchor of hope, can your test become a testimony to be used for God's glory!

Squeezing the Sponge

The things stored within our hearts and minds are sure to be revealed for all to witness when the pressure of life squeezes us tight. It's so easy for us to say just the right things and to do all that is considered proper... but what comes to the surface when the pressure builds up and chaos takes over, tends to show the real person that lives deep down within.

It's like squeezing a sponge.

A day of cleaning has been completed, and you have a basket of sponges that have each served their particular purpose in aiding you in your mission to scrub and clean a variety of surfaces. However, you realize you lost track of which sponge was used for what. They all look alike since you bought a bulk package of blue sponges, so it's hard to tell by looking at them as to which was used in each room you cleaned.

You pick up the first sponge and squeeze it over the sink. A brown fluid drips out and you remember the bottle of Pepsi that spilled and was wiped up. Another sponge is picked up and squeezed and out flows bubbles that smell like Tilex, which you used to scrub out the bathtub. A third sponge is squeezed and you smell the motor oil your husband dripped on the way to the garbage bin when changing the oil. The last sponge gets squeezed and you see a bright yellowish fluid from the Pine-Sol you used to clean the kitchen floor, but when you set that sponge down you realize you're right back to where you began, a pile of similar sponges. They're all the same... until they're squeezed.

Our lives are identical to the sponges in relation to our walk with God. We look, talk, and act as though our lives have truly been submitted to God. We do things that make it seem as though our lives are on track, we say all the right things to give the proper impression... but what has really been soaked up inside? If we were squeezed, what would be revealed showing how our hearts really look?

When moments arise and life's hands give us a good squeeze, whether physically, emotionally, mentally, or spiritually... what drips out of the sponge? Do we lash out in anger, or with love and patience? Do ugly words spill out, or do we take a deep breath and remember that mistakes can and will happen, and we've all had our turn making them? Does revenge leak out to a person that has hurt us, or is it forgiveness that overflows?

Just like the blue sponges used to clean up the house, only things that have been soaked up can be squeezed out. Fill yourself with things pleasing to the Lord. Read the Word of God each day. Pray often, silently or aloud. Spend your free time with others that are encouraging and positive. Doing these things will ensure that when your life's sponge is squeezed, that nothing other than what is pleasing to God will pour out.

Sanctified or Compromised?

Sanctify. Sanctified. Sanctification. I seem to be coming across some form of that word a lot lately in my reading. God uses it to explain to us how our lives, hearts, and minds should be changing, conforming, and reflecting the life of Christ.

The most simple definition to explain the word sanctify is "set apart".

Several days ago my son broke the remote to his television while it was stuck on an input mode that didn't allow him to use his tv. Without hitting the proper button on the remote the tv was useless, except for in that specific input mode. Last night, Nathan joined me in the laundry room gleaming, announcing that he had fixed his remote. He proceeded to show me how the broken spring that used to hold the battery in, had been replaced with a paperclip, and when held just right, twisted in a certain way, and taped down, accomplished the purpose... and waa-lahh, the remote now controls the tv again. His frustration though, is that he has to occasionally fiddle with the twisted paperclip to keep his remote working.

You see, while my son used his smart thinking and compromising skills, and came up with a great temporary fix until the remote can be replaced, it technically isn't the purpose that paperclip was created for. Remotes were made to control the tv with individual parts precisely designed to allow it proper functioning. The paperclip was made... well, to clip together paper. These items are sanctified! They are set apart with a purpose in mind at the time they were created and designed.

There are some things that are made for a purpose, and shouldn't be used for anything other than their purpose or they can ultimately be damaged and destroyed. Beds are for sleeping, not trampoline improvising, or they break down. Knives are for cutting, not screwdrivers, or the tips are ruined and dulled. Your teeth are made to chew food, not open tight bottle caps, or you'll eventually be making a trip to the dentist. You get the idea.

Our lives, too, have a specific purpose, and shouldn't be used for anything else but that purpose. They were not only individually and uniquely created, but they were paid for, in full, by the King of Kings. Your life is set apart, sanctified, to be used for one purpose, and one purpose alone... to bring glory to God.

But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people.
(1 Peter 2:9)

You are chosen! As a follower of Christ you are royalty! This makes you one of those in highest order within God's kingdom! Families of royalty expect certain behaviors from the bearers of the crown. There are peculiar traits, attitudes, and examples to be set and followed. Surely the Crown of Life is no exception! As joint heirs with Christ we have a purpose to live up to and fulfill. Live for Christ because of who you are in Christ!

When this is compromised, we become like the broken down bed, a dull knife, or a damaged tooth... and we're then useless in accomplishing the very thing we were made to do! Only YOU are able to fulfill the purpose for which YOU were created... no rigging or manipulating can temporarily fill in for you as the paperclip did with the remote.

What areas in your life are not glorifying to God? Perhaps you've allowed yourself to be temporarily rigged so you appear as though you're properly functioning among the crowd. Or are you set apart as your unique purpose designed you to be? Don't compromise your position in Christ! Sanctify your life, set it apart... because YOU are a chosen vessel to bring God glory!

Pruning Dead Branches

This morning as I was watering the houseplants I noticed one that seemed to need a little more attention. I took it to the sink and wiped down the planter, adding water to the soil.

I lifted a couple small branches and absent-mindedly removed a few dead pieces here and there that I hadn't noticed were there until I started moving the plant around, making sure it was getting enough water.

As I put the plant back in its spot I realized it looked altogether different. It didn't look bad before, in fact, it looked great. But once the earlier unnoticed dead branches were gone, it looked greener, fresher... healthier. The pruning made such a difference! I didn't pull and cut the dead sections of the plant off as a way to destroy the plant. Rather it was to clean it up and refresh it, allowing it to bloom fuller, growing into a healthier, hardier plant.

God does this very thing for us. As we draw closer to him, allowing Him to inspect us and nurture us through His word, He prunes away our ugly dead branches that hold us back from growing into a spiritually healthy and hardy Christian that will produce more good for His glory.

I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.
(John 15:1-8)

What dead branches do we have that need cut off? Our lives, the things we do, and how we handle things may look wonderful to those outside looking in... but if we shuffle things around a little bit, to reveal the deepest darkest undergrowth, what dead branches are lingering that can be pruned?

Cutting things off and out of our lives hurts. So who would want to go through the pain of cutting things out and making changes? Perhaps that's the true source of the saying "no pain, no gain". When we let go of our will and stubbornness and allow the Lord to move our branches around a bit, revealing the dead branches we've allowed to remain intact, we become a healthier reflection of Christ. We grow into a stronger fruit bearing disciple that is bringing God more glory through our lives.

Whether it be an attitude adjustment, a quirk, a habit, or a lack of motivation... whatever it may be, if it's not bearing fruit for God's kingdom, let Him have it, you'll be healthier and more vibrant without it!

Love In Many Languages

Láska. Kærlighed. Liefde. Armastus. Rakkaus. Amour. Szeretet. Sayang. Ai. Love.

Isn't it amazing how many ways to verbally say LOVE?

There are a number of ways to show love as well. In fact, top psychologists claim that there are five love languages, or rather, five primary ways that people express and interpret love.

These five "primary love languages" are Words of Affirmation, Quality Time, Receiving Gifts, Acts of Service, and Physical Touch. I can see how those five can be very much effective. Everyone receives some sort of satisfaction from feeling loved and being shown they are loved. Some need to be shown more love than others, to feel secure, needed, and appreciated. Others find it brings them more joy to share love than receive acts, words, or affirmations of love.

While these area experts may have a point in their analysis of love, I must argue that there is one language of love that was left out of the top five. It was, and is, the most important language of love ever demonstrated. It was an example and such a pure demonstration for us to literally model ourselves after.

It was the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Christ.

He ate with sinners, told parables to lend understanding, was humble in his works, compassionate to the suffering, patient through trials and judgement, and loyal to His Father's will. He served others without hesitation, never putting self first.

How many times are we guilty of serving with ulterior motives. While some of those motives may not necessarily be labeled as bad, are they truly done with a servant's heart as the example Christ so faithfully demonstrated? Sometimes just making it through the day itself seems like an achievement! But, can you imagine the joy God receives when it goes beyond that?

We have so many chances to show love to those around us!

Allow it to start right there within those walls you call your home. If we can't show love and a servant's heart to our own family members, how can we expect the love of the Lord to shine to others? When we prioritize our time and attention to the members of our family we are showing God an act of love! He has blessed us with those directly in our lives, and it's doubtful any of them would mind you experimenting your practice of love on them!

While working, cleaning, listening, teaching, supporting and giving to each other at home, we must remember to allow it to be done out of love... not obligation, guilt, habit, or duty... but truly sharing love from within. Simple things such as a hug goodnight, a meal at the table, a new coat, washed underwear, a ride to practice... are those moments being done out of habit and have-to's, or are you using those chances to demonstrate your love? It is possible for habit to become sincere and loving... and it all begins with a desire to strive toward displaying the love of Christ.

Next ask yourself what you are good at! What talent has our Creator blessed you with? You do have one... at least one! Some aren't even aware of their talent(s)! Start with things you succeed in, are good at, or things you enjoy! Do you make crafts? Build? Organize? Enjoy children? Sing? Write? Garden? Cook? Explore yourself and determine what you do and/or enjoy that can be turned into a blessing for someone else!

You've knitted a hundred scarves for your own collection... is there someone else that could appreciate the next one? You grow amazing roses in your garden... can one of those blooms brighten the day of a neighbor down the street that you've never seen smile? Your family calls you an organizing nut... is there a function coming up that could sure use help to draw more people in to hear God's word? You love to play instruments... is there a retirement home in your local area that could use some entertainment because visitors are slim to none and loneliness is creeping in? You're good with words... are you allowing God to use them to minister to others that come your way? You love seeing children smile... is there a children's ward you could visit at your local hospital with a sad child whose parents are overworked to pay medical bills and can't seem to make frequent visits for themselves?

There are so many ways to reach out to others with our own God given talents. Ways that don't require an overdose of funds... just a love that demonstrates Christ. Some tasks are small and simple, others take time, planning, and extra thought... but there is no limit on ways it can be expressed.

Learning to love in its purest sense can be a challenge, especially when our flesh and feelings are tested and try jumping in to obscure our view. However, when selfish gratifications and motivations are put on the back burner, and we seek to demonstrate the most perfect language of love... that of Christ... glory goes where glory is due.

Diligently Seeking

There are times when we look, and there are times when we see. There are times when we observe, and there are times when we memorize. There are times when we notice, and there are times when we study. Most of us know what it means to see a new car or a nice little something in the store we would like to have for our own… but do we know what it’s like to see Jesus?

In Acts 26:12-18, Paul recalls his experience on the road (as Saul) to Damascus when he saw the Lord. At the very moment that his eyes were blinded, they were also opened. Jesus, having opened Paul’s eyes, went on to tell him to return to those he used to assist in locking up for being faithful servants to the Lord, and OPEN THEIR EYES the way his had been opened so they too can repent and be forgiven. Paul was obedient. They did try to kill him for it, but because he opened his eyes to what JESUS WANTED OF HIM, he was delivered from it.

You won’t see Jesus if you’re not actively looking for him. Hebrews 11:6 says, "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him." So not only do we need to be seeking him, but we need to be DILIGENTLY (earnestly, hungrily, and needingly) seeking him and believe that he is a rewarder of such faithful seeking.

God has been calling out to us since the beginning, calling for people to see his hand, to hear his voice, and to seek his face. In 1 Chronicles 22:19 David commanded his people to not only seek God, but to set their hearts and souls on seeking God. In other words, to have their hearts and minds reach out to God as a vital necessity, and THEN to arise and build the sanctuary. Forget just building a place for the Lord, he wanted God to be the ONLY THING on their hearts and minds while they built!

Isaiah 55:6 says, “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near.” How many times do we say a prayer, end it with “Amen”, and then sit around twiddling our thumbs waiting for heaven itself to crack open wide, dumping the answer into our lap? Obviously that's not exactly realistic. Here we’re told to SEEK the Lord, and to call on Him while He’s near. We should be seeking Him and calling out to Him, because it’s a necessity that we find Him. It’s once we are there in His presence that we can talk to Him and present our requests to Him.

Let’s say you’re looking for the keys to your car. You remember that the last time you saw them was when you asked your son to hang them on the key rack for you, but the keys are nowhere to be found. You’re running late for something and NEED those keys! You yell out your son's name asking 'where are my keys?', and five minutes later your keys are still nowhere to be found, and you’re still running late. So you hunt down your son. It's now your mission to find him to get what you want. You walk through the house calling his name. After searching for him high and low he hears you calling out his name and responds to your call. You finally sought him out, heard his response, and found him, and when you ask him where your keys are, he is able to show you, and the need is met so you can continue on with what needed done. Seeking God uses the same concept. Call on Him. Call out His name! Shout, cry, and glorify! You’ll know when you've truly found Him because you’ll feel his presence. The more often you seek Him, the less time it will take for Him to recognize your call!

In Hosea 10:12 we read “Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground: for it is time to seek the Lord, till he come and rain righteousness upon you.” Hosea is instructing us to plant ourselves in the Lord... sow ourselves in righteousness, growing stronger in our walk with him, while we break up our “fallow” (uncultivated, unused, barren) ground... take a garden plow to our hearts to prepare it for a harvest... for it's time to seek the Lord! It’s time to inquire for him and of him, and REQUIRE he accompany you on your journey, seeking him until he comes and teaches you righteousness, and rains out his gift of salvation upon you.

Let’s talk about John and Andrew and what we read about in John chapter 1. They were rewarded for seeking out Jesus. For them it wasn’t enough to listen to John the Baptist. Many would have been content to serve in the shadow him. But when John and Andrew saw Jesus, they left John the Baptist and followed Jesus. If you’ve read John chapter 1 you’ll note the question they had for Jesus. In John 1:38 they said “Rabbi, where dwellest thou?” In other words, “Hey Master, where are you staying?” That was pretty bold! They didn’t ask Jesus to give them a minute of his time, or an opinion, or a message or miracle. They wanted his address. They wanted to hang out with him. They wanted to KNOW him. They wanted to know what caused his head to turn and his heart to burn and his soul to yearn. They wanted to study his eyes and follow his steps. They wanted to SEE him.

So, how did Jesus answer the disciples? He said “Come and see.” He didn’t say “come and glance” or “come and peek”, he said “Come and SEE”. Bring your bifocals and binoculars... this is no time for side glances or occasional peeks. Like Hebrews 12:2 says, we need to be looking unto Jesus, the AUTHOR and FINISHER of our faith! The fisherman fixes eyes on the boat. The shopper fixes eyes on the sale. The girl fixes eyes on the boy. The disciple fixes eyes on the Savior!

Now, how does God want to be sought? According to Deuteronomy 4:29 He wants us to seek with all our hearts, seeking as though we’re drawing our final breath in need of finding a life line if we want another, using our hearts, our minds, our lives, truly SEEKING Him as a necessity for living. In that same verse He tells us if we do seek Him like that, we WILL indeed find Him.

So, when will we find the Lord, and what will He do when we find Him? According to Jeremiah 29:13-14, the Lord tells us we’ll seek Him and find Him when we search for Him with all our hearts, and not only will we find Him, but He’ll bring us back from captivity... when we find Him He’ll release us from the things holding us captive so we can enjoy our time with Him instead of being bound by the things going on in our lives.

Matthew 7:7 tells us “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” And in Lamentations 3:25 we’re reminded “The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him.” We need to be hopefully and expectantly waiting on Him, seeking Him with that necessity and longing, and of course on the authority He gives us in His word.

Most have heard the story of Zacchaeus. He was far from being a big guy. He was small, so small he couldn’t see over the crowd that lined the street the day Jesus came to Jericho. Of course the crowd might have let him elbow his way up to the front, except that he was a tax collector... so he wasn’t exactly the most liked man in the crowd. But good ole Zacchaeus had a hunger in his heart to SEE Jesus.

It wasn’t enough for him to stand at the back of the crowd. It wasn’t enough to peer through a cardboard telescope. It wasn't enough to listen to someone else describe the parade of the Messiah. Zacchaeus wanted to SEE Jesus with his own eyes. So what did he do? All dressed up in his best three piece Armani suit and brand new Italian loafers, he shimmied up a tree in hopes of seeing Christ.

Zacchaeus was in earnest. He was willing to (literally) go out on a limb in his search for something to trust. Psalm 9:10 says “And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, Lord, hast not forsaken them that seek thee.” Those who have experience and a familiar acquaintance with the Lord and His mercy, those that lean on Him and put 100% trust in Him, those that know the authority we have through His word and stand firm on it, seeking His face through it... it is those faithful few that are TRULY seeking him, that he will not forsake or abandon.

Those who seek the Lord are rewarded for their eagerness and effort when we find Him. Psalm 27:4 tells us we will dwell with Him, seeing his beauty firsthand. Psalm 34:4 reminds us He’ll deliver us from our fears. Psalm 105:4 assures us that He lends us His strength. Psalm 119:2 tells us we shall be happy and blessed, and Ephesians 2:18 tells us that God listens to us.

Would YOU go out on a limb like Zacchaeus did to see Jesus? Not everyone would if put in that situation while juggling a full schedule. They may be willing to pull out the binoculars to avoid the overwhelming crowd or even just read about it the next day in the paper to save on gas by not making the long drive there.

So we reviewed Zacchaeus, and his willingness to crawl out on a limb among the crowd of people. In Matthew there’s another story about a crowd, only this story involves a rich young ruler. Only, unlike the crowd Zacchaeus was up against, this crowd had no problem parting to make room for him. When he found out Jesus was in the area, he called for his limo, cruised across town and approached the carpenter with a question. Matthew 19:16 says he asked “Good Master, what good thing shall I do that I may have eternal life?” This guy was a bottom line sort of fellow. He jumps in with 'Let’s get right to the issue. Your schedule is busy, so is mine. Tell me how I can get saved and I’ll leave you alone.' No time for formalities or conversations... he just wanted the quick fix so he could get back to his day with an easy ticket to heaven.

There was nothing wrong with his question, but there was a problem with his heart. Contrast his desire with the desire of Zacchaeus: “Can I make it up that tree to SEE him?” Or even compare it to John and Andrew asking “Where are you staying?”

See the difference? The rich young ruler wanted medicine. The others wanted the Physician. The ruler wanted an answer to the quiz. They wanted the Teacher. He was in a hurry. They had all the time in the world. He settled for a cup of coffee at the drive-thru window. They wouldn’t settle for anything less than a full course meal at the banquet table. They wanted more than salvation. They wanted the Savior. They wanted to SEE Jesus.

Psalm 69:32 says “the humble shall see this and be glad; and your heart shall live that seek God.” We’re inquiring in Him... we’re requiring ourselves to be involved with Him, and because of that our hearts and souls will be revived through the hardships and turmoil of our lives and we’ll live to fellowship with Him again and again until the day we join up with Him for eternity!

Scripture tells us how to go about our search as we seek Him. 2 Peter 3:14 says “wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace without spot and blameless.” At our Savior’s coming we should already be daily striving to have complete assurance that we are not only born again, but also in complete confidence that we are free from fears and conflicts. In our daily repentance and quest for peace our search begins.

2 Timothy 2:15 says “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” We should be studying and eager to present ourselves to God through our tests of trials without being ashamed, because regardless of the level we are each individually on in our walk with God, we all have much more to learn as we ask Him to correctly and accurately guide us in handling and spreading to others the goodness He has given us in His word.

DILIGENTLY – what a great word! Be diligent in your search! Be hungry in your quest, relentless in your journey. Step away from puny pursuits of possessions, positions, and people pleasing and SEEK your King! Do as John and Andrew did: ask for his address. Do as Matthew: invite Jesus into your house. Imitate Zacchaeus and risk whatever it takes to SEE Jesus!

"Finding Nemo" Teaches a Lesson

Yes, I'm a grown woman and I just listed an animated movie about fish as my favorite movie. Another confession: I even named my pet Chihuahua Dory, after the name of my favorite character in the movie, the bright Regal Blue Tang fish that helps Marlin find Nemo.

Did you know this film can be interpreted as a spiritual lesson for us to learn from? I didn't either the first dozen or so times I watched it. I thought it was finally just a clean movie without a bunch of stupid witchcraft and needless violence for kids (and kids at heart) to enjoy. But there are a few lessons within this animation with insights we can apply to our own lives!

I'll try to keep this as brief and summarized as possible, but I'd like to share some of what I have learned from this animated favorite of mine!

The movie pretty much begins with Marlin and his wife, Coral, enjoying their own underwater garden. There were beautiful views, no limits, nothing but playfulness and love between them as they admire the eggs of their future children, snuggled below in a mini cave. Fairly quickly though, Marlin and Coral spot a barracuda hovering in the distance. Marlin warns Coral not to move, but she feels she knows best, and she dives down toward them anyway, losing her life and the eggs to the barracuda.

In a way this reminds me of Adam and Eve. They had it all in the Garden of Eden. A freedom within perfection that God designed for them to cherish and enjoy. Then the serpent hovered, tempted, and because Eve trusted in herself instead of God's direction, before they realized what hit them, life as Adam and Eve knew it was lost.

Marlin, in the process, was knocked out, and when he comes to he's all alone... all except the one surviving egg, Nemo. Marlin vows to never let anything happen to him, naming him Nemo because it was the only name his wife had thought of for their children before the attack. Marlin becomes overly protective and scared of everything around them. What didn't help Nemo's situation in this, was being born with one fin smaller than the other (which Nemo refers to as his "lucky fin").

You see, Marlin's heart was broken, and the only vow he can make from that broken heart is one based on hurt and lies. He can't honestly vow not to let anything happen to him, that's out of his control. He just harbors Nemo within his own prison of fear. Marlin had constant fear. He worried that something would happen to Nemo... and in turn, everything he tried so hard to avoid, happened anyway.

Nemo saw no fear or limitations to what he could do, learn, explore and achieve. Drowning in the fear of his dad, rebellion kicks in when Nemo is challenged to go touch a boat. He tells his dad he hates him, he rebels, then because of his disobedience he was captured by a diver in the reef.

We do that don't we? We draw so many negative circumstances into our own lives because of our own expectations... that we blindingly wrap those expectations in fear from past situations, preparing ourselves for ultimate failure, whether it comes or not. Our ego's often get in the way because we unknowingly allow our ego's to me motivated, energized, if you will, by fear. We think we know what's best for ourselves and those around us (family, friends, co-workers, etc), because of things that have happened to us. But that was our situation for that moment... it doesn't dictate how a path will unfold for someone else.

There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.
(I John 4:18)

Love kicks in. Not possessive, fear obsessed control, but love. Marlin realizes his love is stronger than any fear hovering from his past. He calls out for help in his moment of need. While it is the Lord we call out to in desperation, in this scenario it is Dory that comes along.

Here's an ironic tidbit. The name given to Dory in this movie is actually significant to the role of this little blue fish. Dory is a variant, a nickname, for Dorothy. The name Dorothy primarily means "gift of God", as well as "Contributor" and "Comforter". The first thing Dory says to Marlin is "It'll be alright, it'll be okay". She was comforting him, telling him she would contribute herself to help find Nemo.

And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever.
(John 14:16)

Marlin had called out for help, and he was sent a comforter. She has a faith, determination, love, and a hope that will never give up. Although the character is given a funny quirk of forgetfulness, she endures with Marlin through the process. She proves to Marlin the qualities of love described in I Corinthians 13:4-7. She's willing to help him, but in order to accept her help, Marlin has to let go of the fears and hauntings of his past.

They go through trials and obstacles along their way. A song Dory seems to sing through different parts of the movie is "Just keep swimming...". Her faith doesn't dry up. Regardless of the trials, problems, signs of defeat, and endless obstacles that they face... she "just keeps swimming", keeping her focus on the end goal, the finish line, the ultimate purpose for the journey, moving forward with faith. Dory helps Marlin through a number of moments, and after a meaningful triumph of Marlin facing a fear against a dangerous fish that was originally disguised as a deceptive light, Marlin thinks he no longer needs Dory, that he can do it on his own, his way.

Isn't that just like us sometimes? We call out to God for help when things get discouraging, tough, and trying. He faithfully sends His Comforter to give us peace, to show us a love that only He could provide... one that endures forever. He helps us through, and God's glory is lost as we stand puffed up atop of what has been overcome. Sometimes without realization, the Lord is pushed aside as we soar over the mountain top he brought us to out of the valley. It's all going good again, and we forget about our source of triumph through the storm.

So here's Marlin, the all-knowing clown fish that is set and determined to do things his way. Dory stops a school of fish to get accurate directions, but Marlin does things his way and swims over the trench rather than through it, taking them right through an encampment of jellyfish, and Dory is stung by the jellyfish venom that Marlin has a tolerance for, and he swims right through leaving Dory behind.

Ah, again, we let sin creep into our lives, and we build up a tolerance to it. Starting with little things that we convince ourselves surely won't effect a walk with the Lord. Those small things build up a tolerance level that hurts God, and leads us away from him. We, little by little, leave Him behind as we dart through acts of sin that have blinded us as we unknowingly leave God out of our lives and the decisions we make.

Suddenly Marlin sees what he has done, realizing that Dory is a vital part of him and his mission, and he swims back into the mass of jellyfish to find her. They are both stung badly by the jellyfish, and Marlin wakes up to find himself in a different place. In this place, the EAC (East Australian Current), he meets a wise turtle that stops him in his tracks when he reacts out of fear and gives him a lesson on trust and overcoming fear.

The wisdom was shared with Marlin and it begins to sink in. His time of healing and restoration takes place, and he tells his story about losing Nemo and his plight to find him, no matter what. The testimony is spread, starting with the young turtles, passed along through to the fish, sharks, dolphins, and beyond into the ocean. The news is spread about a dedicated father and his son.

Marlin and Dory continue on the journey to find Nemo. When Dory asks for directions from a whale, they are swallowed up. Wearing himself out trying to escape his circumstance, he comes close to giving up. He lashes out at Dory in anger, unable to understand how it could come to this after going and going, facing trial after trial... finally making it that far, just to get swallowed up by a whale. Something Dory says snaps in him though, that the empty promise he gave his son, telling him he would never let anything happen to him, was an impossible promise for him to make. Dory holds onto faith as she keeps an optimistic look into their situation. She doesn't mislead by saying that nothing bad would happen to them, but she assures Marlin that in the end, it will be okay. Marlin trusts in that faith in the end, and they are freed from the whale.

Toward the end, when Nemo gets out of the fish tank the diver had him in, they must all work together one more time. They spread the news to all the fish captured in the net on how to be freed, and what they must do to make it happen. Nemo, Dory, and Marlin all work together toward a common goal, and although it took faith and sacrifice on Marlin's part to let Nemo go to spread the word to the other fish in the net, the end result was a freedom for them all.

We have such a fleshly need to control people, situations, and happenings in our lives... making life for ourselves so much more difficult than it has to be. Working together for the common goal, through faith, sacrifice and overcoming fears, spreading the word to others by what we say and do, can be a powerful witness to achieving the freedom of everlasting life that Jesus provided for us long ago on Calvary.

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
(Hebrews 11:1)

Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.
(Isaiah 41:10)

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
(Philippians 4:6-7)