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June 4, 2019
“Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the LORD caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea into dry land, and the waters were divided.”
Exodus 14:21 NKJV
Many of us have seen the old version of The Ten Commandments. Charlton Heston stretches his hands over the water. The Egyptian army riding in state of the art chariots fresh off the show room floor Cairo are charging toward the Moses and the Children of Israel. These Israelites were desperate. They had no hope. They had walked into a trap, they supposed. Then God moved in and parted the waters. They surely did not expect that, but God brought them through this life-threatening situation when Moses obeyed.
There’s one part of this story you may have missed though. Have you ever noticed what time of day this all happened? It happened at night. The Israelites were caught between an immovable obstacle and an encroaching enemy at the darkest time of the day. You ever been there? I have. Nevertheless, we see God’s might exhibited in this story. When obstacles are too big to go around, when the enemy is hot on your trail, and when you can’t even see what is going on - all is dark, this is God’s opportunity to show who He is on your behalf. All we need to do is obey and trust, or the old hymn reversed that - trust and obey. We are not trapped no matter what our minds tell us. God is greater than shiny new chariots and bodies of water. He’s not afraid of the dark; He controls it. When His time is right, He will make a way where there is no way. That’s one of His specialties, and He will always save His children.
If you don’t believe me, there’s a whole book on the subject - the Bible. Take time to find its truth for your life situations today.
May 31, 2019
“And the LORD, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.””
Deuteronomy 31:8 NKJV
“And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:19 NKJV
I read these words earlier: “Long before Zacchaeus couldn’t see Jesus, the tree was planted to meet his need.” God in His omniscience is preplanning interventions on our behalf.
I experienced the wonder of this last month as I drove to the Easley group. My car has a hard drive with almost 1500 songs stored on it. At least a couple months before, I impulsively decided to just play the whole hard drive. Providentially, a song which applied to the lesson I was teaching played as I drove. I then included it in the lesson. I had no idea that I was going to need to use that song. It was an old song, which I never would have thought to include; but God knew it fit the lesson and was what someone needed to hear. He had planted the thought in my head to play the hard drive months before to meet a need or needs on May 14.
He knows where we are headed and what we need. He is ordering our steps if we will allow Him, and He is providing all we need as we follow His direction. Our task is to stop worrying and keep following. We may not know how to put the details or our lives together; nevertheless, He has a master plan with all the details in place. Join me in relaxing in the trust of a God who knows all, who has our future in His hands, and who will supply all we need. We have nothing to fear. Our hope is in our all-sufficient God.
May 30, 2019
Behold, I will do a new thing, Now it shall spring forth; Shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness And rivers in the desert.”
Isaiah 43:19 NKJV
“Our soul waits for the LORD; He is our help and our shield. For our heart shall rejoice in Him, Because we have trusted in His holy name. Let Your mercy, O LORD, be upon us, Just as we hope in You.”
Psalms 33:20-22 NKJV
This morning I read an AP news story of a rescue in Honolulu. Amanda Ellen had been lost in a forest for two weeks. She survived by eating plants she found and drinking water from streams. Many times she was discouraged as she saw rescue helicopters flying above, but they did not see her. As days accumulated, her hope waned many times, yet she spoke to herself these wise words: “You can sit on that rock and you can die. You can say mercy and feel pitiful for yourself and you can play victim. Or you can start walking down that waterfall and choose life.” I reread that quote many times. It spoke to my heart.
Every day I must choose, all who want to be survivors must choose, to get up off the rock and start walking. No matter what our situation. We must put one foot in front of the other and start walking. We cannot sit and die. We must put our hope in God and take a step.
“Don’t you know that day dawns after night, showers displace drought, and spring and summer follow winter? Then, have hope! Hope forever, for God will not fail you!”
Charles Spurgeon
October 24, 2018
“As for God, His way is perfect; The word of the LORD is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him.”
II Samuel 22:31 NKJV
My mother shared with me a conversation she had with a nurse as we returned from an appointment yesterday. The nurse, a mother of five, discussed with Mother her fear of becoming a widow and having to live alone. She asked Mother if she were afraid after Daddy passed away. Mother said, “No. I was not afraid at all. I guess I would have been in the early years of marriage; but through the years, I learned to trust.” The nurse was comforted by Mother’s personal story and thanked Mother as she left.
I too have learned to trust. On the day my husband died, I was asked, “What are you going to do now?” My immediate response was, “Trust God. Now is not the time to stop.”
If we are to weather hard times, we must learn to trust. He is a shield to all who trust in Him.
“Blessed are you if you trust
When you cannot understand.”
Anonymous
October 23, 2018
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.”
II Timothy 1:7
II Timothy was the last letter Paul wrote. At this point in his life, he was imprisoned by Nero in a dungeon awaiting the end of his life. Nero was not known for setting Christians free, instead he was known for inflicting tortuous deaths. How could Paul write these words? How could he be forging ahead in providing leadership to Timothy as he ministered? He had tapped into the truth he shared in this letter.
First, he relied on the power of God. Paul had learned and had taught that power comes from God, not man. Paul had all the earthly credentials to be powerful, and was from a human standpoint; yet he learned that human strength was nothing. All he accomplished in his life of any value was accomplished in the strength of the Spirit of God.
Secondly, he acknowledged love must be the rudder which directs all our actions. Our relationship with this world must be dominated by the love of God which flows through us. Sometimes this is easier than others, but God is love and He wants us to love the world as He did - sacrificially. Paul loved until the end of his life that the world could continue to see God through his flesh. I had to practice that yesterday when I discovered someone had vandalized my car while we were out of town. I will never know who or why, but last night Morgan and I chose to pray for the person. Anger and unforgiveness will accomplish nothing. We prayed God would somehow reach the heart of someone who chose to do harm for no reason. Our world is full of people lashing out for no reason except sin in their hearts. We must reach to them with the love of God.
Finally, he disciplined himself not to be fearful and timid. We must follow his example and control ourselves. Widows many times are afraid to move ahead with their lives. Many are afraid to accept God’s direction for their future. A well-known widow Elisabeth Elliott struggled with this too. Her husband, Jim, had given his life to bring the Gospel to a group of Auca warriors. His guiding principle had been this: “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep, to keep what he cannot lose.” He died with a pistol in his pocket, but refused to kill the unsaved Waodani native warriors. Elisabeth was left with a choice. Could she continue to fulfill God’s call on their lives to these people? She was afraid to go on. A friend of hers asked her this question as she struggled with what to do: “Why don’t you do it afraid?” And that is exactly what she did. She took her daughter, a toddler at the time, and moved into the Waodani village with another woman who had lost her brother to the warriors. The two of them continued the work there. In the years to follow, every one of the warriors who killed their family members became Christians. Elisabeth had used self-discipline to continue God’s purpose for her life and had made an eternal difference.
We all struggle with fear and timidity, but we must move forward, even if we are shaking in our boots. God has a purpose for us to be here. May we all be willing to push forward and to be his representatives on this earth. May we all invest ourselves in “things we cannot lose,” the eternal.
“When you come to the end of the light you know, and it’s time to step into the darkness of the unknown, faith is knowing that one of two things will happen: Either you will be given something solid to stand on or you will be taught to fly.”
Edward Teller
June 18, 2018
“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
Jeremiah 29:11 NLT
Context is very important to understanding language, whether in the Bible or a conversation. To understand the intended meanings of words, looking at the context is essential. We all have had someone take a few of our words and twist them to mean something we did not intend. The words around those “chosen” words were ignored; the meaning was totally distorted.
Jeremiah 29:11 is frequently misunderstood because its context is ignored. God absolutely does have good plans for us and does not plan disaster. However, most see this verse in isolation without reading the verses above are below never acknowledging the very hard times surrounding it. The verse above brings some bleak news: you will be in captivity in Babylon for seventy years. Then God promises His future plans. An accurate view of the text must take into account life can have many very long, hard days, yet God ultimately has a plan for our good. For that reason, we can hope.
If you are experiencing a hard time right now, look to Jeremiah 29:11. Just as to the Israelites in captivity, God is saying through His Word, “This may be a hard time. This may be a LONG hard time; nevertheless, I have a plan for you. Hope in me and my plan. It is good. Your struggle may be more than you can imagine you can endure, but remember it will end. You will be better in the end and good will come. Hold on. Hope in me.”
Life is not easy, but God is always good and so are His plans for us.
June 13, 2018
“Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.” James 1:2-4 NLT
Grace, my puppy, was spayed on Monday. This necessitates a cone around her neck and no jumping and running. Her mode of behavior has always been high energy. She runs everywhere, and jumps were part of the running. This whole recuperation process cramps her style, even to the point of flaring her temper at the cone.
I thought the best way to keep her still was more crate time. When I returned from voting, I discovered her crate in her room was not the answer. It has a little room height-wise. She was trying to jump to knock the cone from her head. Also, she was running her cone down the sides like a prisoner with a tin cup in an effort to remove it. For that reason, she slept last night in her small travel crate. It does not have the height for her to jump, nor enough space to rub the cone on the sides easily. She just had to rest in her situation. After all, the cone and the crate are for her good - her healing and protection.
We, like Grace, fight against God’s loving care. He puts us in places we do not like or appreciate. Our tempers flare; we fight against them. God may have to put us in a tighter place for our good. God understands what we need better than we. We just need to rest in that truth: God is giving us the best care, for He loves us immeasurably and wants the best for us.
“In a thousand trials, it is not just five hundred of them that work ‘for the good’ of the believer, but nine hundred and ninety-nine, plus one.”
George Mueller
June 4, 2018
“For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind and self-control].”
2 TIMOTHY 1:7 AMP
Grace barks at the tv sometimes. . . If she sees a cat or a dog. She really hates Smart Cat on ETV: that cat gets several good barks. Last night she jumped from my lap and ran to the tv with a bark when a dog was in a movie. Even in her youth, she has learned to react to any threat that comes from that black rectangular “door” across the room. She knows this is her house. She is the princess here (I say to her, “Goodnight, sweet princess,” as part of our bedtime routine.) She’s the daughter of the queen of this domain.
Unfortunately, Grace is reacting to something that is no threat. That rectangular “door” is not letting strange cats and dogs into her house. She is safe; she is in no danger. Why? The ruler of this household has everything under control. The doors are closed and locked. The alarm may be set. I am not going to allow anything to come and harm her. Her only problem is a lack of recognition of my protection and care.
The ruler of the universe is caring for us too. We have nothing to fear if we are His. Our only problem is our perception of His care. Nothing can come into our lives and harm us. He has us in His care. We may have hard times, but our Father is protecting us. We are His children. We have nothing to fear. Rest today in the arms of your Father and listen to His calling you His “Sweet princess.” We are you know - we are daughters of the King.
May 16, 2018
“Then call on me when you are in trouble, and I will rescue you, and you will give me glory.””
Psalms 50:15 NLT
“So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.”
Hebrews 4:16 NLT
When we have a need, our first reaction should be to call on God. Just as a child calls to a parent, we should call to our Father; and just as a child calls persistently, so should we. Our Father always hears us and will give us grace and help to face every situation.
This morning Grace, my puppy, came to my chair as I was beginning my devotional time. At first, I told her, “No,” and she retreated. However, she kept coming back every few minutes. Finally, I was to a place that I felt she could join me. I allowed her to jump into my chair, and we continued my devotion together. Now her need for a little snuggle time has been met. She lies quietly dozing in her dog bed beside me.
Her persistence spoke to my heart this morning. Every time she came to my chair, I saw her request, her heart; nevertheless, I had a designated time that was appropriate for fulfilling her need. I really was pleased by her constant coming - it was a physical reminder of her love and dedication to me.
Call on the Lord today. Come boldly to HIm. He is pleased by our persistence and will give grace and mercy to face your troubles.
April 24, 2018
“The Lord visited Sarah AS HE HAD SAID, and THE LORD DID for Sarah AS HE HAD SPOKEN.”
Genesis 21:1
“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him and He will do this.”
Psalm 37:5
The Lord will always do what He says He will do. He never changes His mind. He is never incapable of fulfilling a promise. No circumstances intervene interrupting His plans. He is omnipotent; He is totally reliable.
As humans, we cannot really grasp this truth. We are everything He is not. Sometimes we just cannot do what we say we will, even if we try. Sometimes we change our mind. Sometimes we just do not have the ability to fulfill our promises or circumstances do intervene to interrupt our plans. We have limited power. For these reasons, we cannot grasp God’s character or God’s power.
Join me in focusing on who He is today. He always will DO WHAT HE HAS SAID, and He always will DO WHAT HE HAS SPOKEN.
May 30, 2017
““Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel, which means ‘God is with us.’””
Matthew 1:23 NLT
“And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever—”
John 14:16 NKJV
He was called Immanuel, "God with us;" yet after thirty-three years He left this earth. Nevertheless, God is still with us. On the night before His crucifixion, He told His disciples many important things. One of them was He was asking God the Father to send the Holy Spirit to abide with His people forever.
As I face adversity and pain in my life, I feel so alone. My mind says, "You're by yourself on this one." However, I am not alone: God is with me. When I face the hardest situations of my life, I am never alone. The Holy Spirit abides in my heart to comfort, to guide, and to speak truth into my aching heart. I remind myself today, and you just might need to do the same, HE ABIDES WITH ME FOREVER.
May 29, 2017
"Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all you who hope in the Lord." Psalm 31:24 NKJV
"Though your circumstances may indeed be painful and difficult, they are not worthless. So muster the courage to say yes to your life, trusting that I am in control and I am with you in your struggles." Sarah Young in JESUS TODAY
Last night I watched a live telecast from Washington, D.C., on PBS. The Memorial Day event was a recounting of loss and injury - the price for the freedom we enjoy. Beautiful music, multitudes of flags, uniformed men, and the poignant retelling of stories flamed within the crowd pride and patriotism; yet as I looked at the families featured in the stories, I saw tears and pain. For them, this night was not about patriotism; it was about pain they had endured, some for decades, and loss that was permanent. Their experience last night was totally different from the large audience. The audience was appreciative for the price paid, but they had not experienced the cost of loss.
Loss is costly and forever we have a vacant slot in the wallet of our life. Whether we have lost someone in military service, in an accident, or through a battle with an illness, a loss is just that "a loss." We have been diminished. Our lives are never the same; nevertheless, we are not without hope.
God promises to strengthen the hearts of those who hope in Him. We can never erase loss, but join me in trusting God for strength for each new day. God wants to be with us, to strengthen us, and to give us new life every day. Allow Him to hold your hand and walk with you. Only He can make us whole again.
May 26, 2017
“The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.” Psalms 23:1-6 NLT
Fears and worries can creep into our souls without our being aware. We truly have no reason to fear, for God is beside us working out the details of our lives without our knowledge. I discovered recently God had worked out the details of a major concern in my life. God was leading, guiding, and making a way even when I was unaware. When I was mentally laboring over my plan, He had already enacted one far superior to mine.
I hope I can remember clearly the lesson I have learned: the Lord is my shepherd. He cares for me and sees the details of my life are in place. He always has a plan in place for my good. Now I just need to relax and follow. He knows my way home and is taking me there. I just need to follow.
January 9, 2017
“Now Moses was tending the flock of Jethro his father-in-law, the priest of Midian. And he led the flock to the back of the desert, and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. And the Angel of the LORD appeared to him in a flame of fire from the midst of a bush. So he looked, and behold, the bush was burning with fire, but the bush was not consumed. Then Moses said, “I will now turn aside and see this great sight, why the bush does not burn.” So when the LORD saw that he turned aside to look, God called to him from the midst of the bush and said, “Moses, Moses!” And he said, “Here I am.”
Moreover He said, “I am the God of your father—the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” And Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look upon God. . .
But Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh, and that I should bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?”. . . Then Moses said to God, “Indeed, when I come to the children of Israel and say to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’ and they say to me, ‘What is His name?’ what shall I say to them?” And God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.” And He said, “Thus you shall say to the children of Israel, ‘I AM has sent me to you.’ ””
Exodus 3:1-4, 6, 11, 13-14 NKJV
When you think of Moses what is your picture? Do you see him standing at the edge of the Red Sea and the waters parting, or do you see him descending the mountain carrying tablets inscribed with the Ten Commandments? You may even see a baby floating in the river with an Egyptian princess on the shore. All of these are significant events in his life, yet last night my mind was drawn to a dark time he faced.
Moses grew up as a prince of Egypt, but in his early adulthood unbridled anger caused him to murder an Egyptian who was beating a Hebrew man. He ran for his life and ended up in the desert of Midian. He forged a new life there as a shepherd. From prince to shepherd, his life really had taken a downturn. He who knew no physical labor became a caregiver for livestock. I feel assured he was not at all thrilled with the lifestyle change.
One day as he went about his business as shepherd, in his far from glamorous life, he had a divine encounter. God showed up when he was at a really low point in his life. He experienced God in an uncommon way, a burning-bush encounter. Read the story in its entirety in Exodus 3. Moses learned at least three life-changing things at this bush: God can appear when he least expected Him; he learned God's purpose for His life; and he learned who God was like never before. This burning-bush experience is the reason Moses stood on the shore of the Red Sea and descended the mountain with the Ten Commandments; nevertheless, never forget it took place at one of the hardest periods of Moses' life on the backside of a desert.
This story is replete with spiritual lessons for us. First of all, dark times can be preparing us for God's appearance in our lives in a unique way. God encounters frequently happened in dark times in the Scriptures. Secondly, hard times can give us an opportunity to find out who we really are and what God's purposes are for our lives, and they also allow us to get a glimpse who God is.
The cold, dark days of winter can become down times for many of us. Easily our souls can find themselves on the backside of the desert wondering how can I cope with my life now. Let me encourage you to take these dark days to look for burning bushes. If we seek God, He will appear in ways we never expected bringing with Him a deeper revelation of who He is accompanied by pieces to the puzzle of who we are too. Hard times give us opportunities to discover the I AM in a whole new way.
Join me in pursuing Him. I'm looking for burning bushes everywhere I go. I anticipate finding Him in unexpected places. You too can encounter Him. Keep your eyes open and your hearts turned toward Him. I AM is a present tense God. He wants to reveal Himself to you today.
January 3, 2017
“The LORD will guide you continually, And satisfy your soul in drought, And strengthen your bones; You shall be like a watered garden, And like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.” Isaiah 58:11 NKJV
Upstate South Carolina experienced severe drought in 2016. The local weathermen continually reported the rain deficit. I watched as my neighbor, who happens to be Clemson biology professor, tended his beautiful vegetable garden and was fortunate to taste of the produce from it. How did he have a lush garden in a severe drought? He had an alternate water source. Every morning when I came to my study for my time with God, I could see his sprinkler system watering his vegetables. Our area of the country was in a drought, but his garden was extremely productive in the midst of it.
Sometimes our spiritual life can encounter drought-like situations too. Such things as grief, loneliness, stressful family relationships, or financial distress, have the potential to bring on a spiritual drought. Nevertheless, we do not have to become parched, dead, and unproductive. We can be like the professor's watered garden. We can produce in a time when circumstances indicate productivity is impossible. How? We must follow the Lord.
Do not allow adverse situations and drought-like times to destroy you. Water is available. Isaiah 12:3 gives us promise of a source of water: "Therefore with joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation." Are you feeling parched today? Make a trip to the well. Draw up refreshment from the relationship you have with God through salvation. Be like a watered garden - productive in the driest of times. Spiritual drought does not have to destroy us. Run for the well; it is brimming with spiritual water to quench our thirsty souls.
January 2, 2017
“Bless and affectionately praise the LORD, O my soul, And all that is [deep] within me, bless His holy name. Bless and affectionately praise the LORD, O my soul, And do not forget any of His benefits;”
PSALM 103:1-2 AMP
I am forgetful. I blame it on my thyroid problems; most of my thyroid gland was removed in 2007, but it could just be my age or my overloaded schedule. No matter what the cause, there are some things I just need to remember, like taking my thyroid medication. I have devised a system by which I am assured if I take it or not. Every night, I, well actually Morgan has started doing it, place my pill in a ziplock bag beside my bed. I am supposed to take it a while before I eat, so when I awake I take it. As long as it is in the bag, I know it has not been taken. If I only sat a medicine bottle beside my bed, I might not remember if I took one pill out of the bottle or not.
I must also create a mental system to remember the benefits of God. When I have a challenging day, I easily forget God's goodness and provision in my life. The Hebrew word for "benefits" comes from the same root as the word "camel." Think about what camels meant to ancient Middle Eastern societies. They were strong, carrying heavy loads. They transported people and things across the desert because of their ability to go for long periods without water. Camels were valuable. For that reason, one of the indicators of a man's wealth was how many camels he owned. (Look at Job 1 at the enumeration of his wealth.) Let's apply those facts to God's benefits. A relationship with God allows Him to carry our heavy loads across the deserts of life. Truly, our wealth is not a net worth figure: our wealth is a relationship factor - a God who fills our lives with His benefits. Consequently, our mouths and even our demeanor should declare to our world praise to God. We need to make reminders for ourselves of His benefits in our lives.
Life has its loads and its deserts, yet we are rich as we enjoy the benefits (camel ride) God provides for us. Never forget these wise words from Charles Spurgeon:
Don't you know that day dawns after night,
Showers displace drought,
And spring and summer follow winter?
Then, have hope!
Hope forever, for God will not fail you!
January 1, 2017
Now Joshua was old, advanced in years. And the LORD said to him: “You are old, advanced in years, and there remains very much land yet to be possessed.” Joshua 13:1 NKJV
“Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me.”
Philippians 3:12 NKJV
2017. . . How did we get here? I look back over my almost 59 years upon a winding path. I've traveled so many miles. I've met so many people. I've done so many things. I could choose to say, "I've finished my work. I'm retired. Let 2017 be a year of pleasure. Let 2017 be a year for just fun. You deserve to just do whatever you want to do." Nevertheless, in my heart I hear God's voice echoing in my heart the words spoken to Joshua: "There remains very much land yet to be possessed."
God puts us all here with purpose. Old Testament Queen Esther is not unique in God's putting her on the earth for such a time as this. Paul said God had a reason to lay hold of him; God had a purpose for him to fulfill.
I know your life has been hard. Loss surely takes its toll, yet I come to emphatically declare to you today, "Your purpose on this earth is not finished." Ann Voscamp said in THE BROKEN WAY, "You are where you are for such a time as this. Not to gain anything, but to risk everything."
On this first day of the year, choose to make 2017 a purpose-filled year. Daily open yourself to divine possibilities and holy assignments. Make yourself busy laying hold of the things for which God has laid hold of you. I have personally found pursuing His purpose for my life fills my days with joy, and I have learned His plans for me turn my mourning into dancing.
Do I have plans for 2017? Sure, but my priority is to pursue God's plans for me. Nothing can bring satisfaction except them. Join me making 2017 the year of possessing those "lands" He has set before us to conquer. We all have purpose; let's seek relentlessly to find it. In the land of His purpose, joy, peace, and hope abound.
October 24, 2016
“And He said to them, " . . . for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.”
And the Lord said, “Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his master will make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of food in due season? Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes.”
Luke 12:15, 42-43 NKJV
It's hard to believe Christmas Eve is exactly two months away. Of course, I should not be surprised; the stores took down the Fourth of July flags and replaced them with Christmas trees. Nevertheless, my mind is just starting to ponder the upcoming holiday and the family traditions which have evolved through the years. My children and I always have a birthday cake for Jesus and give Him a gift by contributing to some charity who ministers in His name. We also always watch a video which includes my husband reading the Christmas story, for we never want to leave him out of the celebration. This morning though my mind goes all the way back to 1964.
That Christmas season I was a first grader and a wonderful movie made its debut, "Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer." From that first year, I have to see it every year. I can quote the lines. I own the DVD. I have stuffed Rudolph characters who sit beneath my tree, but this morning I am not thinking about an outcast reindeer with a shimmering nose. I am pondering Yukon Cornelius.
If you know the story, he was a prospector. As his character is introduced, he is striking through the snow and chanting, "Silver and gold," which becomes a song since this was a musical. He was obsessed with finding precious metals. Fortunately, he learns of relationships with people and finds the joy of life, not in silver and gold, but in connecting with others and being helpful in time of need.
This weekend I have been doing much deep thinking. I have reviewed my life which is probably at least two-thirds over. What have I accomplished? I own a house. It's nothing Southern Living will ever write about, but it is totally mine. I have some investments and retirement income, but nothing to brag about. I have two good cars, and I must admit that little convertible holds a special place in my heart, but none of these things bring anything but momentary happiness. What brings joy to my heart is watching lights come on in women's eyes as I share in our groups, or getting a message saying, "That devotion was just what I needed. It changed my life." I told someone yesterday this is the best job I have every had. I receive no monetary compensation and I really do invest a lot of time, but the joy of working for the King of the Universe is immeasurable. No salary could ever compare.
I guess I have learned, like Yukon, life is not about silver and gold. Life is about touching people's lives and making an eternal difference. Today if you are searching for something to do with yourself, I am becoming a recruiter. Do you want the best life? Give yourself to service of the King. He will fill your heart with joy which nothing on this earth could provide. My heart overflows today, for I have found fulfillment in my occupation- taking Jesus to this world.
October 10, 2016
“Meanwhile, the moment we get tired in the waiting, God’s Spirit is right alongside helping us along. If we don’t know how or what to pray, it doesn’t matter. He does our praying in and for us, making prayer out of our wordless sighs, our aching groans. He knows us far better than we know ourselves, knows our pregnant condition, and keeps us present before God. That’s why we can be so sure that every detail in our lives of love for God is worked into something good.”
Romans 8:26-28 MSG
"Likewise the Spirit helps in our weakness." Romans 8:26 NKJV
Some days I am just weak. Just like a boxer who has been repeatedly punched, I feel I cannot withstand one more blow. I just know one more hit, regardless of how small, will be the knock out punch. Fortunately, I have a partner. God's Spirit moves in helping me, strengthening me, and making my wordless prayers into clear communication with my Father. He truly is the Helper.
If you are facing a tough day, as we all do at times, recognize you are not alone. God's Spirit comes alongside to help you and me when we are too weak to withstand more. Embrace His help; He does not want anyone to face the difficulties of life alone. Defeat never needs to be in our vocabulary. If we partner with God, we can always be winners. Weak today? No problem. If we will allow Him, the Spirit will take over when we have reached our limit. Victory is on the horizon: He always wins!
October 9, 2016
“What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written: “For Your sake we are killed all day long; We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.” Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Romans 8:31-39 NKJV
Do you remember the battery-operated bunny from commercials? On the thirty second to a minute ad he kept going, and going, and going. Fortunately, they didn't make movies about him, for in two hours he would be stopping, and stopping, and stopping. Even though his batteries were good, they had limitations. Everything on and of this earth has its limitations. This is a stark contrast to the things of God.
Romans 8 emphasizes God's everlasting love. "Incomprehensible" is the only word to describe it. Nothing or no one deters it. Literally, it is infinite. Through His love, we are more than conquerors. The Greek word indicates we are not just winners through Him, but we are Olympic gold medal winners.
If you are facing all manner of hardships and difficulties, you are on the track to win. The love of God will see you though. Embrace His love today in whatever you face and go for the prize. I see a gold medal in your future!
October 8, 2016
“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:6-7 NLT
Awakening around 6:00 AM, I whispered a prayer for those who have been and are being affected by Hurricane Matthew. Then I reached for my phone hoping to locate a news feed with an update. The magnitude of this storm is potentially terrifying. I cannot imagine having to endure being in the midst of it.
Hurricanes are horrific storms born in the seas of our world, but other storms potentially can be as terrifying. The storms of such things as loss, sickness, or betrayal can blow so fiercely in our souls we wonder if we will survive. Without someone to stabilize us, we surely will be consumed by the storms. In the midst of these storms, Matthew 14 should remind us: Jesus walks through storms on churning water. Jesus is never daunted by what terrifies us. He calmly walks on, for He knows He us greater.
If your life is in a storm today, literally or figuratively, hold onto Jesus. He is stability in all. Relax and don't worry. God can give peace in the middle of the most devastating times. Jesus walks through storms: He gladly will walk us THROUGH ours too.
“Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the LORD caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea into dry land, and the waters were divided.”
Exodus 14:21 NKJV
Many of us have seen the old version of The Ten Commandments. Charlton Heston stretches his hands over the water. The Egyptian army riding in state of the art chariots fresh off the show room floor Cairo are charging toward the Moses and the Children of Israel. These Israelites were desperate. They had no hope. They had walked into a trap, they supposed. Then God moved in and parted the waters. They surely did not expect that, but God brought them through this life-threatening situation when Moses obeyed.
There’s one part of this story you may have missed though. Have you ever noticed what time of day this all happened? It happened at night. The Israelites were caught between an immovable obstacle and an encroaching enemy at the darkest time of the day. You ever been there? I have. Nevertheless, we see God’s might exhibited in this story. When obstacles are too big to go around, when the enemy is hot on your trail, and when you can’t even see what is going on - all is dark, this is God’s opportunity to show who He is on your behalf. All we need to do is obey and trust, or the old hymn reversed that - trust and obey. We are not trapped no matter what our minds tell us. God is greater than shiny new chariots and bodies of water. He’s not afraid of the dark; He controls it. When His time is right, He will make a way where there is no way. That’s one of His specialties, and He will always save His children.
If you don’t believe me, there’s a whole book on the subject - the Bible. Take time to find its truth for your life situations today.
May 31, 2019
“And the LORD, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.””
Deuteronomy 31:8 NKJV
“And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:19 NKJV
I read these words earlier: “Long before Zacchaeus couldn’t see Jesus, the tree was planted to meet his need.” God in His omniscience is preplanning interventions on our behalf.
I experienced the wonder of this last month as I drove to the Easley group. My car has a hard drive with almost 1500 songs stored on it. At least a couple months before, I impulsively decided to just play the whole hard drive. Providentially, a song which applied to the lesson I was teaching played as I drove. I then included it in the lesson. I had no idea that I was going to need to use that song. It was an old song, which I never would have thought to include; but God knew it fit the lesson and was what someone needed to hear. He had planted the thought in my head to play the hard drive months before to meet a need or needs on May 14.
He knows where we are headed and what we need. He is ordering our steps if we will allow Him, and He is providing all we need as we follow His direction. Our task is to stop worrying and keep following. We may not know how to put the details or our lives together; nevertheless, He has a master plan with all the details in place. Join me in relaxing in the trust of a God who knows all, who has our future in His hands, and who will supply all we need. We have nothing to fear. Our hope is in our all-sufficient God.
May 30, 2019
Behold, I will do a new thing, Now it shall spring forth; Shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness And rivers in the desert.”
Isaiah 43:19 NKJV
“Our soul waits for the LORD; He is our help and our shield. For our heart shall rejoice in Him, Because we have trusted in His holy name. Let Your mercy, O LORD, be upon us, Just as we hope in You.”
Psalms 33:20-22 NKJV
This morning I read an AP news story of a rescue in Honolulu. Amanda Ellen had been lost in a forest for two weeks. She survived by eating plants she found and drinking water from streams. Many times she was discouraged as she saw rescue helicopters flying above, but they did not see her. As days accumulated, her hope waned many times, yet she spoke to herself these wise words: “You can sit on that rock and you can die. You can say mercy and feel pitiful for yourself and you can play victim. Or you can start walking down that waterfall and choose life.” I reread that quote many times. It spoke to my heart.
Every day I must choose, all who want to be survivors must choose, to get up off the rock and start walking. No matter what our situation. We must put one foot in front of the other and start walking. We cannot sit and die. We must put our hope in God and take a step.
“Don’t you know that day dawns after night, showers displace drought, and spring and summer follow winter? Then, have hope! Hope forever, for God will not fail you!”
Charles Spurgeon
October 24, 2018
“As for God, His way is perfect; The word of the LORD is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him.”
II Samuel 22:31 NKJV
My mother shared with me a conversation she had with a nurse as we returned from an appointment yesterday. The nurse, a mother of five, discussed with Mother her fear of becoming a widow and having to live alone. She asked Mother if she were afraid after Daddy passed away. Mother said, “No. I was not afraid at all. I guess I would have been in the early years of marriage; but through the years, I learned to trust.” The nurse was comforted by Mother’s personal story and thanked Mother as she left.
I too have learned to trust. On the day my husband died, I was asked, “What are you going to do now?” My immediate response was, “Trust God. Now is not the time to stop.”
If we are to weather hard times, we must learn to trust. He is a shield to all who trust in Him.
“Blessed are you if you trust
When you cannot understand.”
Anonymous
October 23, 2018
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.”
II Timothy 1:7
II Timothy was the last letter Paul wrote. At this point in his life, he was imprisoned by Nero in a dungeon awaiting the end of his life. Nero was not known for setting Christians free, instead he was known for inflicting tortuous deaths. How could Paul write these words? How could he be forging ahead in providing leadership to Timothy as he ministered? He had tapped into the truth he shared in this letter.
First, he relied on the power of God. Paul had learned and had taught that power comes from God, not man. Paul had all the earthly credentials to be powerful, and was from a human standpoint; yet he learned that human strength was nothing. All he accomplished in his life of any value was accomplished in the strength of the Spirit of God.
Secondly, he acknowledged love must be the rudder which directs all our actions. Our relationship with this world must be dominated by the love of God which flows through us. Sometimes this is easier than others, but God is love and He wants us to love the world as He did - sacrificially. Paul loved until the end of his life that the world could continue to see God through his flesh. I had to practice that yesterday when I discovered someone had vandalized my car while we were out of town. I will never know who or why, but last night Morgan and I chose to pray for the person. Anger and unforgiveness will accomplish nothing. We prayed God would somehow reach the heart of someone who chose to do harm for no reason. Our world is full of people lashing out for no reason except sin in their hearts. We must reach to them with the love of God.
Finally, he disciplined himself not to be fearful and timid. We must follow his example and control ourselves. Widows many times are afraid to move ahead with their lives. Many are afraid to accept God’s direction for their future. A well-known widow Elisabeth Elliott struggled with this too. Her husband, Jim, had given his life to bring the Gospel to a group of Auca warriors. His guiding principle had been this: “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep, to keep what he cannot lose.” He died with a pistol in his pocket, but refused to kill the unsaved Waodani native warriors. Elisabeth was left with a choice. Could she continue to fulfill God’s call on their lives to these people? She was afraid to go on. A friend of hers asked her this question as she struggled with what to do: “Why don’t you do it afraid?” And that is exactly what she did. She took her daughter, a toddler at the time, and moved into the Waodani village with another woman who had lost her brother to the warriors. The two of them continued the work there. In the years to follow, every one of the warriors who killed their family members became Christians. Elisabeth had used self-discipline to continue God’s purpose for her life and had made an eternal difference.
We all struggle with fear and timidity, but we must move forward, even if we are shaking in our boots. God has a purpose for us to be here. May we all be willing to push forward and to be his representatives on this earth. May we all invest ourselves in “things we cannot lose,” the eternal.
“When you come to the end of the light you know, and it’s time to step into the darkness of the unknown, faith is knowing that one of two things will happen: Either you will be given something solid to stand on or you will be taught to fly.”
Edward Teller
June 18, 2018
“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
Jeremiah 29:11 NLT
Context is very important to understanding language, whether in the Bible or a conversation. To understand the intended meanings of words, looking at the context is essential. We all have had someone take a few of our words and twist them to mean something we did not intend. The words around those “chosen” words were ignored; the meaning was totally distorted.
Jeremiah 29:11 is frequently misunderstood because its context is ignored. God absolutely does have good plans for us and does not plan disaster. However, most see this verse in isolation without reading the verses above are below never acknowledging the very hard times surrounding it. The verse above brings some bleak news: you will be in captivity in Babylon for seventy years. Then God promises His future plans. An accurate view of the text must take into account life can have many very long, hard days, yet God ultimately has a plan for our good. For that reason, we can hope.
If you are experiencing a hard time right now, look to Jeremiah 29:11. Just as to the Israelites in captivity, God is saying through His Word, “This may be a hard time. This may be a LONG hard time; nevertheless, I have a plan for you. Hope in me and my plan. It is good. Your struggle may be more than you can imagine you can endure, but remember it will end. You will be better in the end and good will come. Hold on. Hope in me.”
Life is not easy, but God is always good and so are His plans for us.
June 13, 2018
“Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.” James 1:2-4 NLT
Grace, my puppy, was spayed on Monday. This necessitates a cone around her neck and no jumping and running. Her mode of behavior has always been high energy. She runs everywhere, and jumps were part of the running. This whole recuperation process cramps her style, even to the point of flaring her temper at the cone.
I thought the best way to keep her still was more crate time. When I returned from voting, I discovered her crate in her room was not the answer. It has a little room height-wise. She was trying to jump to knock the cone from her head. Also, she was running her cone down the sides like a prisoner with a tin cup in an effort to remove it. For that reason, she slept last night in her small travel crate. It does not have the height for her to jump, nor enough space to rub the cone on the sides easily. She just had to rest in her situation. After all, the cone and the crate are for her good - her healing and protection.
We, like Grace, fight against God’s loving care. He puts us in places we do not like or appreciate. Our tempers flare; we fight against them. God may have to put us in a tighter place for our good. God understands what we need better than we. We just need to rest in that truth: God is giving us the best care, for He loves us immeasurably and wants the best for us.
“In a thousand trials, it is not just five hundred of them that work ‘for the good’ of the believer, but nine hundred and ninety-nine, plus one.”
George Mueller
June 4, 2018
“For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind and self-control].”
2 TIMOTHY 1:7 AMP
Grace barks at the tv sometimes. . . If she sees a cat or a dog. She really hates Smart Cat on ETV: that cat gets several good barks. Last night she jumped from my lap and ran to the tv with a bark when a dog was in a movie. Even in her youth, she has learned to react to any threat that comes from that black rectangular “door” across the room. She knows this is her house. She is the princess here (I say to her, “Goodnight, sweet princess,” as part of our bedtime routine.) She’s the daughter of the queen of this domain.
Unfortunately, Grace is reacting to something that is no threat. That rectangular “door” is not letting strange cats and dogs into her house. She is safe; she is in no danger. Why? The ruler of this household has everything under control. The doors are closed and locked. The alarm may be set. I am not going to allow anything to come and harm her. Her only problem is a lack of recognition of my protection and care.
The ruler of the universe is caring for us too. We have nothing to fear if we are His. Our only problem is our perception of His care. Nothing can come into our lives and harm us. He has us in His care. We may have hard times, but our Father is protecting us. We are His children. We have nothing to fear. Rest today in the arms of your Father and listen to His calling you His “Sweet princess.” We are you know - we are daughters of the King.
May 16, 2018
“Then call on me when you are in trouble, and I will rescue you, and you will give me glory.””
Psalms 50:15 NLT
“So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.”
Hebrews 4:16 NLT
When we have a need, our first reaction should be to call on God. Just as a child calls to a parent, we should call to our Father; and just as a child calls persistently, so should we. Our Father always hears us and will give us grace and help to face every situation.
This morning Grace, my puppy, came to my chair as I was beginning my devotional time. At first, I told her, “No,” and she retreated. However, she kept coming back every few minutes. Finally, I was to a place that I felt she could join me. I allowed her to jump into my chair, and we continued my devotion together. Now her need for a little snuggle time has been met. She lies quietly dozing in her dog bed beside me.
Her persistence spoke to my heart this morning. Every time she came to my chair, I saw her request, her heart; nevertheless, I had a designated time that was appropriate for fulfilling her need. I really was pleased by her constant coming - it was a physical reminder of her love and dedication to me.
Call on the Lord today. Come boldly to HIm. He is pleased by our persistence and will give grace and mercy to face your troubles.
April 24, 2018
“The Lord visited Sarah AS HE HAD SAID, and THE LORD DID for Sarah AS HE HAD SPOKEN.”
Genesis 21:1
“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him and He will do this.”
Psalm 37:5
The Lord will always do what He says He will do. He never changes His mind. He is never incapable of fulfilling a promise. No circumstances intervene interrupting His plans. He is omnipotent; He is totally reliable.
As humans, we cannot really grasp this truth. We are everything He is not. Sometimes we just cannot do what we say we will, even if we try. Sometimes we change our mind. Sometimes we just do not have the ability to fulfill our promises or circumstances do intervene to interrupt our plans. We have limited power. For these reasons, we cannot grasp God’s character or God’s power.
Join me in focusing on who He is today. He always will DO WHAT HE HAS SAID, and He always will DO WHAT HE HAS SPOKEN.
May 30, 2017
““Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel, which means ‘God is with us.’””
Matthew 1:23 NLT
“And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever—”
John 14:16 NKJV
He was called Immanuel, "God with us;" yet after thirty-three years He left this earth. Nevertheless, God is still with us. On the night before His crucifixion, He told His disciples many important things. One of them was He was asking God the Father to send the Holy Spirit to abide with His people forever.
As I face adversity and pain in my life, I feel so alone. My mind says, "You're by yourself on this one." However, I am not alone: God is with me. When I face the hardest situations of my life, I am never alone. The Holy Spirit abides in my heart to comfort, to guide, and to speak truth into my aching heart. I remind myself today, and you just might need to do the same, HE ABIDES WITH ME FOREVER.
May 29, 2017
"Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all you who hope in the Lord." Psalm 31:24 NKJV
"Though your circumstances may indeed be painful and difficult, they are not worthless. So muster the courage to say yes to your life, trusting that I am in control and I am with you in your struggles." Sarah Young in JESUS TODAY
Last night I watched a live telecast from Washington, D.C., on PBS. The Memorial Day event was a recounting of loss and injury - the price for the freedom we enjoy. Beautiful music, multitudes of flags, uniformed men, and the poignant retelling of stories flamed within the crowd pride and patriotism; yet as I looked at the families featured in the stories, I saw tears and pain. For them, this night was not about patriotism; it was about pain they had endured, some for decades, and loss that was permanent. Their experience last night was totally different from the large audience. The audience was appreciative for the price paid, but they had not experienced the cost of loss.
Loss is costly and forever we have a vacant slot in the wallet of our life. Whether we have lost someone in military service, in an accident, or through a battle with an illness, a loss is just that "a loss." We have been diminished. Our lives are never the same; nevertheless, we are not without hope.
God promises to strengthen the hearts of those who hope in Him. We can never erase loss, but join me in trusting God for strength for each new day. God wants to be with us, to strengthen us, and to give us new life every day. Allow Him to hold your hand and walk with you. Only He can make us whole again.
May 26, 2017
“The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the Lord forever.” Psalms 23:1-6 NLT
Fears and worries can creep into our souls without our being aware. We truly have no reason to fear, for God is beside us working out the details of our lives without our knowledge. I discovered recently God had worked out the details of a major concern in my life. God was leading, guiding, and making a way even when I was unaware. When I was mentally laboring over my plan, He had already enacted one far superior to mine.
I hope I can remember clearly the lesson I have learned: the Lord is my shepherd. He cares for me and sees the details of my life are in place. He always has a plan in place for my good. Now I just need to relax and follow. He knows my way home and is taking me there. I just need to follow.
January 9, 2017
“Now Moses was tending the flock of Jethro his father-in-law, the priest of Midian. And he led the flock to the back of the desert, and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. And the Angel of the LORD appeared to him in a flame of fire from the midst of a bush. So he looked, and behold, the bush was burning with fire, but the bush was not consumed. Then Moses said, “I will now turn aside and see this great sight, why the bush does not burn.” So when the LORD saw that he turned aside to look, God called to him from the midst of the bush and said, “Moses, Moses!” And he said, “Here I am.”
Moreover He said, “I am the God of your father—the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” And Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look upon God. . .
But Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh, and that I should bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?”. . . Then Moses said to God, “Indeed, when I come to the children of Israel and say to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’ and they say to me, ‘What is His name?’ what shall I say to them?” And God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.” And He said, “Thus you shall say to the children of Israel, ‘I AM has sent me to you.’ ””
Exodus 3:1-4, 6, 11, 13-14 NKJV
When you think of Moses what is your picture? Do you see him standing at the edge of the Red Sea and the waters parting, or do you see him descending the mountain carrying tablets inscribed with the Ten Commandments? You may even see a baby floating in the river with an Egyptian princess on the shore. All of these are significant events in his life, yet last night my mind was drawn to a dark time he faced.
Moses grew up as a prince of Egypt, but in his early adulthood unbridled anger caused him to murder an Egyptian who was beating a Hebrew man. He ran for his life and ended up in the desert of Midian. He forged a new life there as a shepherd. From prince to shepherd, his life really had taken a downturn. He who knew no physical labor became a caregiver for livestock. I feel assured he was not at all thrilled with the lifestyle change.
One day as he went about his business as shepherd, in his far from glamorous life, he had a divine encounter. God showed up when he was at a really low point in his life. He experienced God in an uncommon way, a burning-bush encounter. Read the story in its entirety in Exodus 3. Moses learned at least three life-changing things at this bush: God can appear when he least expected Him; he learned God's purpose for His life; and he learned who God was like never before. This burning-bush experience is the reason Moses stood on the shore of the Red Sea and descended the mountain with the Ten Commandments; nevertheless, never forget it took place at one of the hardest periods of Moses' life on the backside of a desert.
This story is replete with spiritual lessons for us. First of all, dark times can be preparing us for God's appearance in our lives in a unique way. God encounters frequently happened in dark times in the Scriptures. Secondly, hard times can give us an opportunity to find out who we really are and what God's purposes are for our lives, and they also allow us to get a glimpse who God is.
The cold, dark days of winter can become down times for many of us. Easily our souls can find themselves on the backside of the desert wondering how can I cope with my life now. Let me encourage you to take these dark days to look for burning bushes. If we seek God, He will appear in ways we never expected bringing with Him a deeper revelation of who He is accompanied by pieces to the puzzle of who we are too. Hard times give us opportunities to discover the I AM in a whole new way.
Join me in pursuing Him. I'm looking for burning bushes everywhere I go. I anticipate finding Him in unexpected places. You too can encounter Him. Keep your eyes open and your hearts turned toward Him. I AM is a present tense God. He wants to reveal Himself to you today.
January 3, 2017
“The LORD will guide you continually, And satisfy your soul in drought, And strengthen your bones; You shall be like a watered garden, And like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.” Isaiah 58:11 NKJV
Upstate South Carolina experienced severe drought in 2016. The local weathermen continually reported the rain deficit. I watched as my neighbor, who happens to be Clemson biology professor, tended his beautiful vegetable garden and was fortunate to taste of the produce from it. How did he have a lush garden in a severe drought? He had an alternate water source. Every morning when I came to my study for my time with God, I could see his sprinkler system watering his vegetables. Our area of the country was in a drought, but his garden was extremely productive in the midst of it.
Sometimes our spiritual life can encounter drought-like situations too. Such things as grief, loneliness, stressful family relationships, or financial distress, have the potential to bring on a spiritual drought. Nevertheless, we do not have to become parched, dead, and unproductive. We can be like the professor's watered garden. We can produce in a time when circumstances indicate productivity is impossible. How? We must follow the Lord.
Do not allow adverse situations and drought-like times to destroy you. Water is available. Isaiah 12:3 gives us promise of a source of water: "Therefore with joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation." Are you feeling parched today? Make a trip to the well. Draw up refreshment from the relationship you have with God through salvation. Be like a watered garden - productive in the driest of times. Spiritual drought does not have to destroy us. Run for the well; it is brimming with spiritual water to quench our thirsty souls.
January 2, 2017
“Bless and affectionately praise the LORD, O my soul, And all that is [deep] within me, bless His holy name. Bless and affectionately praise the LORD, O my soul, And do not forget any of His benefits;”
PSALM 103:1-2 AMP
I am forgetful. I blame it on my thyroid problems; most of my thyroid gland was removed in 2007, but it could just be my age or my overloaded schedule. No matter what the cause, there are some things I just need to remember, like taking my thyroid medication. I have devised a system by which I am assured if I take it or not. Every night, I, well actually Morgan has started doing it, place my pill in a ziplock bag beside my bed. I am supposed to take it a while before I eat, so when I awake I take it. As long as it is in the bag, I know it has not been taken. If I only sat a medicine bottle beside my bed, I might not remember if I took one pill out of the bottle or not.
I must also create a mental system to remember the benefits of God. When I have a challenging day, I easily forget God's goodness and provision in my life. The Hebrew word for "benefits" comes from the same root as the word "camel." Think about what camels meant to ancient Middle Eastern societies. They were strong, carrying heavy loads. They transported people and things across the desert because of their ability to go for long periods without water. Camels were valuable. For that reason, one of the indicators of a man's wealth was how many camels he owned. (Look at Job 1 at the enumeration of his wealth.) Let's apply those facts to God's benefits. A relationship with God allows Him to carry our heavy loads across the deserts of life. Truly, our wealth is not a net worth figure: our wealth is a relationship factor - a God who fills our lives with His benefits. Consequently, our mouths and even our demeanor should declare to our world praise to God. We need to make reminders for ourselves of His benefits in our lives.
Life has its loads and its deserts, yet we are rich as we enjoy the benefits (camel ride) God provides for us. Never forget these wise words from Charles Spurgeon:
Don't you know that day dawns after night,
Showers displace drought,
And spring and summer follow winter?
Then, have hope!
Hope forever, for God will not fail you!
January 1, 2017
Now Joshua was old, advanced in years. And the LORD said to him: “You are old, advanced in years, and there remains very much land yet to be possessed.” Joshua 13:1 NKJV
“Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me.”
Philippians 3:12 NKJV
2017. . . How did we get here? I look back over my almost 59 years upon a winding path. I've traveled so many miles. I've met so many people. I've done so many things. I could choose to say, "I've finished my work. I'm retired. Let 2017 be a year of pleasure. Let 2017 be a year for just fun. You deserve to just do whatever you want to do." Nevertheless, in my heart I hear God's voice echoing in my heart the words spoken to Joshua: "There remains very much land yet to be possessed."
God puts us all here with purpose. Old Testament Queen Esther is not unique in God's putting her on the earth for such a time as this. Paul said God had a reason to lay hold of him; God had a purpose for him to fulfill.
I know your life has been hard. Loss surely takes its toll, yet I come to emphatically declare to you today, "Your purpose on this earth is not finished." Ann Voscamp said in THE BROKEN WAY, "You are where you are for such a time as this. Not to gain anything, but to risk everything."
On this first day of the year, choose to make 2017 a purpose-filled year. Daily open yourself to divine possibilities and holy assignments. Make yourself busy laying hold of the things for which God has laid hold of you. I have personally found pursuing His purpose for my life fills my days with joy, and I have learned His plans for me turn my mourning into dancing.
Do I have plans for 2017? Sure, but my priority is to pursue God's plans for me. Nothing can bring satisfaction except them. Join me making 2017 the year of possessing those "lands" He has set before us to conquer. We all have purpose; let's seek relentlessly to find it. In the land of His purpose, joy, peace, and hope abound.
October 24, 2016
“And He said to them, " . . . for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.”
And the Lord said, “Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his master will make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of food in due season? Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes.”
Luke 12:15, 42-43 NKJV
It's hard to believe Christmas Eve is exactly two months away. Of course, I should not be surprised; the stores took down the Fourth of July flags and replaced them with Christmas trees. Nevertheless, my mind is just starting to ponder the upcoming holiday and the family traditions which have evolved through the years. My children and I always have a birthday cake for Jesus and give Him a gift by contributing to some charity who ministers in His name. We also always watch a video which includes my husband reading the Christmas story, for we never want to leave him out of the celebration. This morning though my mind goes all the way back to 1964.
That Christmas season I was a first grader and a wonderful movie made its debut, "Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer." From that first year, I have to see it every year. I can quote the lines. I own the DVD. I have stuffed Rudolph characters who sit beneath my tree, but this morning I am not thinking about an outcast reindeer with a shimmering nose. I am pondering Yukon Cornelius.
If you know the story, he was a prospector. As his character is introduced, he is striking through the snow and chanting, "Silver and gold," which becomes a song since this was a musical. He was obsessed with finding precious metals. Fortunately, he learns of relationships with people and finds the joy of life, not in silver and gold, but in connecting with others and being helpful in time of need.
This weekend I have been doing much deep thinking. I have reviewed my life which is probably at least two-thirds over. What have I accomplished? I own a house. It's nothing Southern Living will ever write about, but it is totally mine. I have some investments and retirement income, but nothing to brag about. I have two good cars, and I must admit that little convertible holds a special place in my heart, but none of these things bring anything but momentary happiness. What brings joy to my heart is watching lights come on in women's eyes as I share in our groups, or getting a message saying, "That devotion was just what I needed. It changed my life." I told someone yesterday this is the best job I have every had. I receive no monetary compensation and I really do invest a lot of time, but the joy of working for the King of the Universe is immeasurable. No salary could ever compare.
I guess I have learned, like Yukon, life is not about silver and gold. Life is about touching people's lives and making an eternal difference. Today if you are searching for something to do with yourself, I am becoming a recruiter. Do you want the best life? Give yourself to service of the King. He will fill your heart with joy which nothing on this earth could provide. My heart overflows today, for I have found fulfillment in my occupation- taking Jesus to this world.
October 10, 2016
“Meanwhile, the moment we get tired in the waiting, God’s Spirit is right alongside helping us along. If we don’t know how or what to pray, it doesn’t matter. He does our praying in and for us, making prayer out of our wordless sighs, our aching groans. He knows us far better than we know ourselves, knows our pregnant condition, and keeps us present before God. That’s why we can be so sure that every detail in our lives of love for God is worked into something good.”
Romans 8:26-28 MSG
"Likewise the Spirit helps in our weakness." Romans 8:26 NKJV
Some days I am just weak. Just like a boxer who has been repeatedly punched, I feel I cannot withstand one more blow. I just know one more hit, regardless of how small, will be the knock out punch. Fortunately, I have a partner. God's Spirit moves in helping me, strengthening me, and making my wordless prayers into clear communication with my Father. He truly is the Helper.
If you are facing a tough day, as we all do at times, recognize you are not alone. God's Spirit comes alongside to help you and me when we are too weak to withstand more. Embrace His help; He does not want anyone to face the difficulties of life alone. Defeat never needs to be in our vocabulary. If we partner with God, we can always be winners. Weak today? No problem. If we will allow Him, the Spirit will take over when we have reached our limit. Victory is on the horizon: He always wins!
October 9, 2016
“What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written: “For Your sake we are killed all day long; We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.” Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Romans 8:31-39 NKJV
Do you remember the battery-operated bunny from commercials? On the thirty second to a minute ad he kept going, and going, and going. Fortunately, they didn't make movies about him, for in two hours he would be stopping, and stopping, and stopping. Even though his batteries were good, they had limitations. Everything on and of this earth has its limitations. This is a stark contrast to the things of God.
Romans 8 emphasizes God's everlasting love. "Incomprehensible" is the only word to describe it. Nothing or no one deters it. Literally, it is infinite. Through His love, we are more than conquerors. The Greek word indicates we are not just winners through Him, but we are Olympic gold medal winners.
If you are facing all manner of hardships and difficulties, you are on the track to win. The love of God will see you though. Embrace His love today in whatever you face and go for the prize. I see a gold medal in your future!
October 8, 2016
“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:6-7 NLT
Awakening around 6:00 AM, I whispered a prayer for those who have been and are being affected by Hurricane Matthew. Then I reached for my phone hoping to locate a news feed with an update. The magnitude of this storm is potentially terrifying. I cannot imagine having to endure being in the midst of it.
Hurricanes are horrific storms born in the seas of our world, but other storms potentially can be as terrifying. The storms of such things as loss, sickness, or betrayal can blow so fiercely in our souls we wonder if we will survive. Without someone to stabilize us, we surely will be consumed by the storms. In the midst of these storms, Matthew 14 should remind us: Jesus walks through storms on churning water. Jesus is never daunted by what terrifies us. He calmly walks on, for He knows He us greater.
If your life is in a storm today, literally or figuratively, hold onto Jesus. He is stability in all. Relax and don't worry. God can give peace in the middle of the most devastating times. Jesus walks through storms: He gladly will walk us THROUGH ours too.
