August 2011. Our part of the country is gripped in a massive heat wave. It is oppressive. The temperatures are in excess of 100 degrees early in the day and continue that way through the night. It is tiresome. The grass is dry and crispy so that our dog can hardly walk on it. It is severe. We eagerly look to the skies for some indication that there might be some rain. It is relentless. It hurts us. It hurts our garden.
Our nation is in the grip of sin. It is oppressive. We proudly proclaim our homosexuality with parades and celebrations while God calls it an abomination. It is tiresome. Our government is borrowing money to pay it's debts but regulates the individual in an attempt to stop such a practice. It is severe. We dismiss life through abortion, euthanasia, alcohol, and drugs trying to find something to relieve the shame of our sin. It is relentless. It hurts us. It hurts our garden.
(Righteous Father, I beseech you in the name of Jesus, your only begotten Son, my Savior. Forgive us for the grievous sin that offends you. Turn our hearts, soften our hearts, cause us to be ashamed of the sin which our nation so proudly displays. Let your people, called by your name, humble ourselves, pray, and turn from our sins so that you can heal our land. Amen.)
Showing posts with label lessons. Show all posts
Showing posts with label lessons. Show all posts
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Thursday, September 8, 2011
That Idiot, Samson.
Okay, so I'm reading the historical record of Samson and am marveling at the idiocy of this judge of Israel. (Judges 14-16)
First, he decides he wants a woman. He found one that pleased him. He and his dad went to make the arrangements. Congratulations, Samson, you're engaged. He waits a bit and then goes to claim his bride. They get married and have a traditional seven day wedding feast. During this time, she conspires with her family to trick her new husband. (What!?) She uses tears to get her way. He gets mad (rightly so) and goes home without her. Her dad then marries her off to another guy. When the wheat harvest comes in, Samson's anger has subsided and he takes a peace offering to his wife. But her daddy said NO, want her cuter sister instead? Uh, that sure didn't help Samson contain his anger. He then lights the tails of some foxes and burns the harvest. When the oppressing government finds out who did it and why, they burn up the wife and her dad. Then, Samson whups the tar out of them.
Next, Samson decides he wants a quickie. So, he goes to visit a sweetie he saw on the street. The oppressors figure this is a great opportunity to kill him. So they lock down the city and wait for morning in order to kill him. He gets up at midnight and takes out the main city gate and two posts carrying them to the top of a hill and dumping them. He escaped.
Again, he decides he wants a woman. So he loves Delilah. She's in cahoots with the gov't. They've promised to give her money if she finds out the secret to Samson's strength and power. Lots of money. She asks, "Hey, honey, how can I tie you up and keep you tied up?" (Seriously?! I think I'd be concerned.) So, he lies to her. She arranges a test. Samson is still strong. She whines, probably sheds a tear or two, "You are making fun of me." She asks again the secret to his strength. He lies again. She arranges another test. He is still strong. She cries. Now, we are at round three. She asks. He lies. She arranges. He is still strong. She cries. But, this time she adds, "You don't love me!" Her constant boo-hooing vexes his soul. He crumbles. He spills his guts and the secret to this strength and power. (Dummy!) She arranges. His strength is gone. She afflicts him and turns him over to the oppressing gov't. They blinded him and put him to work on the grindstone.
Yet, in all his idiocy, the Spirit of God dwelt with and moved in Samson. Samson was called to be a thorn in the side of the Philistine nation that was oppressing the Israeli people. He did that well. He must have been a confident guy. He was strong and powerful. He might have even been a cute guy. In the end, he was a blind, humbled guy. And, God still used him.
When the oppressors had him in chains, they threw themselves a party. The referred to him as the "destroyer". Samson became the entertainment. (Can anyone say, professional wrestling?) Samson was smart, even at death's door. He brought the house down, literally. Whoot! Even in death he fulfilled his calling.
(Father God, what an awesome record of your mercy and grace. Amen.)
First, he decides he wants a woman. He found one that pleased him. He and his dad went to make the arrangements. Congratulations, Samson, you're engaged. He waits a bit and then goes to claim his bride. They get married and have a traditional seven day wedding feast. During this time, she conspires with her family to trick her new husband. (What!?) She uses tears to get her way. He gets mad (rightly so) and goes home without her. Her dad then marries her off to another guy. When the wheat harvest comes in, Samson's anger has subsided and he takes a peace offering to his wife. But her daddy said NO, want her cuter sister instead? Uh, that sure didn't help Samson contain his anger. He then lights the tails of some foxes and burns the harvest. When the oppressing government finds out who did it and why, they burn up the wife and her dad. Then, Samson whups the tar out of them.
Next, Samson decides he wants a quickie. So, he goes to visit a sweetie he saw on the street. The oppressors figure this is a great opportunity to kill him. So they lock down the city and wait for morning in order to kill him. He gets up at midnight and takes out the main city gate and two posts carrying them to the top of a hill and dumping them. He escaped.
Again, he decides he wants a woman. So he loves Delilah. She's in cahoots with the gov't. They've promised to give her money if she finds out the secret to Samson's strength and power. Lots of money. She asks, "Hey, honey, how can I tie you up and keep you tied up?" (Seriously?! I think I'd be concerned.) So, he lies to her. She arranges a test. Samson is still strong. She whines, probably sheds a tear or two, "You are making fun of me." She asks again the secret to his strength. He lies again. She arranges another test. He is still strong. She cries. Now, we are at round three. She asks. He lies. She arranges. He is still strong. She cries. But, this time she adds, "You don't love me!" Her constant boo-hooing vexes his soul. He crumbles. He spills his guts and the secret to this strength and power. (Dummy!) She arranges. His strength is gone. She afflicts him and turns him over to the oppressing gov't. They blinded him and put him to work on the grindstone.
Yet, in all his idiocy, the Spirit of God dwelt with and moved in Samson. Samson was called to be a thorn in the side of the Philistine nation that was oppressing the Israeli people. He did that well. He must have been a confident guy. He was strong and powerful. He might have even been a cute guy. In the end, he was a blind, humbled guy. And, God still used him.
When the oppressors had him in chains, they threw themselves a party. The referred to him as the "destroyer". Samson became the entertainment. (Can anyone say, professional wrestling?) Samson was smart, even at death's door. He brought the house down, literally. Whoot! Even in death he fulfilled his calling.
(Father God, what an awesome record of your mercy and grace. Amen.)
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Garden Lessons: The Squash Plant
It is mid-summer and sitting on our back porch nestled snugly in its pot is a single squash plant. It is a beautiful plant. I admire the large gorgeous yellow blossoms it produces. Its lovely green leaves are strong. It's a great plant. It's beautiful to see.
But, in all those blooms, we've not seen any fruit. A squash plant has two types of flowers, one male and one female. Some type of pollinator, such as a honeybee, is required to move pollen from the male flower to the female flower. The flowers are only receptive to pollination for one day. I haven't observed any honeybees around our squash plant. Ugh. This means that I'm going to have to intervene.
What does the squash plant tell me about God? God is an amazing creator. He has fashioned so many incredible systems - our own human body made up of the muscular, skeletal, endocrine, circulatory, and other systems in one body. There is the ecosystem of nature. And, there are social systems such as the work place, school, and other places where people interact.
Is your church like our squash plant? Is it gorgeous on the outside but unable to produce fruit? Are the environmental factors taking their toll? Is someone going to have to intervene in order to cause the production of fruit? God has set these systems to work properly. Our indifference to God and His ways have resulted in some factors that influence the system.
Within any church, there are a multitude of people. It may be a small group or an expansive group. In either case, some people have the skills, ability and desire to accomplish one part of the job such as the flowers and the honeybee. The flower cannot do the honeybee's job and vice versa. And sometimes, it takes an outside influence to accomplish the job. Is God calling you to a specific job within your church? If so, do your part to produce the fruit.
(Father God, how amazing your creation is. Your intelligence is evident in the various systems. O how I long to see it in it's original perfect state. Help me to work as you designed me. Thank you. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.)
But, in all those blooms, we've not seen any fruit. A squash plant has two types of flowers, one male and one female. Some type of pollinator, such as a honeybee, is required to move pollen from the male flower to the female flower. The flowers are only receptive to pollination for one day. I haven't observed any honeybees around our squash plant. Ugh. This means that I'm going to have to intervene.
What does the squash plant tell me about God? God is an amazing creator. He has fashioned so many incredible systems - our own human body made up of the muscular, skeletal, endocrine, circulatory, and other systems in one body. There is the ecosystem of nature. And, there are social systems such as the work place, school, and other places where people interact.
Is your church like our squash plant? Is it gorgeous on the outside but unable to produce fruit? Are the environmental factors taking their toll? Is someone going to have to intervene in order to cause the production of fruit? God has set these systems to work properly. Our indifference to God and His ways have resulted in some factors that influence the system.
Within any church, there are a multitude of people. It may be a small group or an expansive group. In either case, some people have the skills, ability and desire to accomplish one part of the job such as the flowers and the honeybee. The flower cannot do the honeybee's job and vice versa. And sometimes, it takes an outside influence to accomplish the job. Is God calling you to a specific job within your church? If so, do your part to produce the fruit.
(Father God, how amazing your creation is. Your intelligence is evident in the various systems. O how I long to see it in it's original perfect state. Help me to work as you designed me. Thank you. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.)
Monday, June 13, 2011
Bumpy Monday - Speeding Along (04/07/08)
During this weekend's travels I found myself speeding along the highway. I was convicted. Wow, it seems like such a small thing just a couple of miles over the speed limit - 67 in a 65. Yet, God used that to speak to me. It is rebellion. Rebellion against the governing laws. If I'm comfortable speeding along in defiance of the country's laws, am I also willing to continue on sinning in defiance of God's laws? Am I speeding along in my little sin ignoring God's call to obedience and repentance? That sin could be a continual lie, not providing all my tithe, gossip, undermining the authority of the scripture, drinking alcohol, cursing, or any number of things just barely over the speed limit. I slowed down those two miles per hour and set my cruise control. Now, I'm seeking to slow down the sneaky sin and let God be my cruise control. I love the way God shares with us when we are open to hear His voice.(Lord God, I pray that you will reveal the speeding sin in my life. Help me to turn to You for my cruise control. I thank you for being the govenor that keeps me from running away crazily. In Jesus name, Amen.)
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Faith and Bella
Bella followed us blackberry picking from Granny's deep woods house. She loved all the smells and was having a wonderful time. She walked nearly a mile with us and then we decided to drive to another location for berries - wild berries. Upon arrival, we parked and went a little way into the woods and Bella was nose to the ground checking every smell.
Then, she saw the rabbit. She barked and started after the bunny. We attempted to call her off for just a moment. I told the berry pickers she'd be fine. After all, she's a Bassett, they love to hunt.
Well, she found that rabbit again and off she went, barking and chasing. She probably ran that poor rabbit for half a mile through the woods. She was baying the whole time. I told the berry pickers she'd be fine. As long as we could hear her, she wasn't too far away. I had faith. After all, she's a Bassett hound.
Time passed and my faith evaporated. When tried by time, my faith dissipated like a morning fog. Poof! Gone. Vanished. I started to worry. I didn't want her to be lost. I had to go looking for her. I called. She answered. I called. She answered. Time and again, I called and she answered. But, she was still deep in the woods. Eventually, she grew quiet and I went back and forth looking for her.
Finally, I decided to head back to where she started chasing the rabbit in hopes that my faith had promise. Just as we began down the trail to the spot, she came loping along. Her tongue was hanging as low as her ears but she was a content doggy. Yes, she did just what a good Bassett hound was to do. I, on the other hand, learned just how weak my faith is.
(Father God, help me to have faith rooted deeply and strongly in you. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.)
 |
| Bella |
Well, she found that rabbit again and off she went, barking and chasing. She probably ran that poor rabbit for half a mile through the woods. She was baying the whole time. I told the berry pickers she'd be fine. As long as we could hear her, she wasn't too far away. I had faith. After all, she's a Bassett hound.
Time passed and my faith evaporated. When tried by time, my faith dissipated like a morning fog. Poof! Gone. Vanished. I started to worry. I didn't want her to be lost. I had to go looking for her. I called. She answered. I called. She answered. Time and again, I called and she answered. But, she was still deep in the woods. Eventually, she grew quiet and I went back and forth looking for her.
Finally, I decided to head back to where she started chasing the rabbit in hopes that my faith had promise. Just as we began down the trail to the spot, she came loping along. Her tongue was hanging as low as her ears but she was a content doggy. Yes, she did just what a good Bassett hound was to do. I, on the other hand, learned just how weak my faith is.
(Father God, help me to have faith rooted deeply and strongly in you. In the name of Jesus I pray, Amen.)
Friday, April 8, 2011
Garden Lessons: Light
I discussed some the things I've learned already in my previous "Garden Lessons" entry.
Continuing, I've learned that the new plant needs light very close to it. When light is close to it, it doesn't try to stretch out seeking any light it can find. You see, if the light is too far away, the plant becomes spindly and weak. The stem has no strength to hold the new leaves as they develop. What spiritual truth is there here? A young Christian needs to be mentored by a strong Christian, one who is mature in faith. And, the mentor needs to stay close to keep the young from stretching out and becoming weak. Without the closeness of mentoring, the new Christian can reach out to any light source, even false light sources. When the new Christian stretches too far, it results in a weakened faith that may eventually fail. Like I said last time, a mentor is critical.
Another thing I've learned is that the light needs to be very close to the plant in order for the plant to foster a good root structure. Without a good root structure, the stem and leaves loose their support. If I keep the light just a few inches away from the top of the plant, it keeps the growth of the plant on track. It gives the plant the time it needs to build the root system under the soil. What spiritual truth lies here? Yes, that's right, a new Christian has to develop a good basis of faith. A good basis comes by hearing the Word of God. Really, all it takes is sharing scripture with other Christians verbally. Sometimes, it's as easy as reading scripture aloud.
True faith, true light, true growth, true anything is found only in a relationship with THE Creator, Sustainer, Judge, Truth - the great I AM. I am so glad He is taking time to teach me through his creation even though the effects of sin are great upon it. I'm excited to see what's next.
(Father God, thank you. Thank you! How incredible it is to examine the plants and how marvelous are the details and planning that went into them. What great mercy that even after thousands of years, these sustaining plants continue to provide for me. You are holy, holy, holy. Praise and glory to You for ever. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.)
Continuing, I've learned that the new plant needs light very close to it. When light is close to it, it doesn't try to stretch out seeking any light it can find. You see, if the light is too far away, the plant becomes spindly and weak. The stem has no strength to hold the new leaves as they develop. What spiritual truth is there here? A young Christian needs to be mentored by a strong Christian, one who is mature in faith. And, the mentor needs to stay close to keep the young from stretching out and becoming weak. Without the closeness of mentoring, the new Christian can reach out to any light source, even false light sources. When the new Christian stretches too far, it results in a weakened faith that may eventually fail. Like I said last time, a mentor is critical.
Another thing I've learned is that the light needs to be very close to the plant in order for the plant to foster a good root structure. Without a good root structure, the stem and leaves loose their support. If I keep the light just a few inches away from the top of the plant, it keeps the growth of the plant on track. It gives the plant the time it needs to build the root system under the soil. What spiritual truth lies here? Yes, that's right, a new Christian has to develop a good basis of faith. A good basis comes by hearing the Word of God. Really, all it takes is sharing scripture with other Christians verbally. Sometimes, it's as easy as reading scripture aloud.
True faith, true light, true growth, true anything is found only in a relationship with THE Creator, Sustainer, Judge, Truth - the great I AM. I am so glad He is taking time to teach me through his creation even though the effects of sin are great upon it. I'm excited to see what's next.
(Father God, thank you. Thank you! How incredible it is to examine the plants and how marvelous are the details and planning that went into them. What great mercy that even after thousands of years, these sustaining plants continue to provide for me. You are holy, holy, holy. Praise and glory to You for ever. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.)
Friday, April 1, 2011
Garden Lessons: The Pot, the Soil, and the Depth
As I've been attempting to start some plants for our garden, I've sought the spiritual parallels of what I've learned from our adventure. It's not been a great adventure yet. There's a lot of failure going around right now. However, I believe I have some things to learn from this and that's its purpose. So, there will be a series of blog entries on "Garden Lessons."
First, I've learned that the pot you start with should be the pot the plant stays in until you are ready to put it in the ground. Moving the plant from a small pot to a larger pot is just too much of a shock. What kind of spiritual parallel can I see? A new Christian should be left in the church in the class in which she was saved. God placed that person exactly where he needs to be. If you are saved in a small church, stay there for awhile. You'll see why soon enough.
Next, I've learned that the soil in the pot cannot be packed. It has to be loose enough for the roots to develop. Yet, it can't be so thin that there is nothing to grasp. What kind of spiritual parallel can I see here? The new Christian should not be overwhelmed with sources of learning such as reading, doctrine, study, analysis, commentaries, evangelism classes, works, etc. all at once. Nor should she be left without any source of learning. The new Christian should be established with a starting level Bible reading plan ,a book of sample prayers or simple devotionals, and a basic doctrine study; thus, making his source of learning just right.
I've also learned that the seed has to be planted at the right depth. If the seed is not far enough in the soil, the plant doesn't have to work to get to the surface and the root is not deep enough to support future growth. This little bit of effort on the part of the plant creates a stronger plant. But, if the seed is too deep, it can rot or be choked off from ever reaching the surface. The spiritual parallel here is similar to the previous one. The new Christian has to do some reading, praying, and study on her own or there is no foundation for faith. And, he must not become bogged down in endless questions and fairy tales that result in a faith that rots and dies.
Now, someone has to get the pot, add the soil, and plant the seed at the right depth. What spiritual parallel can I see here? A new Christian needs a mentor. A mentor is critical. I can't stress this enough, fellow Christians. Don't lead a person to Christ then leave her stranded without any direction! Don't lead a person to Christ then abandon him! This baby Christian needs you.
(Father God, thank you for the lesson you are teaching through the plants you created. I'm so excited to learn more about you in this process. Help me to put each new nugget of truth into practice. In the name of Jesus, my Savior, I pray. Amen.)
First, I've learned that the pot you start with should be the pot the plant stays in until you are ready to put it in the ground. Moving the plant from a small pot to a larger pot is just too much of a shock. What kind of spiritual parallel can I see? A new Christian should be left in the church in the class in which she was saved. God placed that person exactly where he needs to be. If you are saved in a small church, stay there for awhile. You'll see why soon enough.
Next, I've learned that the soil in the pot cannot be packed. It has to be loose enough for the roots to develop. Yet, it can't be so thin that there is nothing to grasp. What kind of spiritual parallel can I see here? The new Christian should not be overwhelmed with sources of learning such as reading, doctrine, study, analysis, commentaries, evangelism classes, works, etc. all at once. Nor should she be left without any source of learning. The new Christian should be established with a starting level Bible reading plan ,a book of sample prayers or simple devotionals, and a basic doctrine study; thus, making his source of learning just right.
I've also learned that the seed has to be planted at the right depth. If the seed is not far enough in the soil, the plant doesn't have to work to get to the surface and the root is not deep enough to support future growth. This little bit of effort on the part of the plant creates a stronger plant. But, if the seed is too deep, it can rot or be choked off from ever reaching the surface. The spiritual parallel here is similar to the previous one. The new Christian has to do some reading, praying, and study on her own or there is no foundation for faith. And, he must not become bogged down in endless questions and fairy tales that result in a faith that rots and dies.
Now, someone has to get the pot, add the soil, and plant the seed at the right depth. What spiritual parallel can I see here? A new Christian needs a mentor. A mentor is critical. I can't stress this enough, fellow Christians. Don't lead a person to Christ then leave her stranded without any direction! Don't lead a person to Christ then abandon him! This baby Christian needs you.
(Father God, thank you for the lesson you are teaching through the plants you created. I'm so excited to learn more about you in this process. Help me to put each new nugget of truth into practice. In the name of Jesus, my Savior, I pray. Amen.)
Friday, October 1, 2010
Following a Suffering Servant
(This entry follows on my previous blog entry about God and suffering.) I talked about how those that we are intimately involved with are the ones that can cause the greatest amount of suffering and loss. The parent-child relationship, the spousal relationship, the child-parent relationship - these all can be devastating but these same relationships are the ones that bring us the greatest joy!The intimacy of a spousal relationship (husband/man and wife/woman only within the bonds of marriage) is incredibly fulfilling physically and emotionally. The intimacy of bearing a child is also a fulfilling endeavor that can lead to joy as your child takes his first steps, graduates from high school, marries her sweetheart, or confidently takes a new job. The intimacy of caring for an aging parent can provide insights into knowing the parent beyond just that and into knowing the parent as a person.
So what relationship does Jesus have with us? Creator to creation. The One who created us in intimately involved in His creation. That's how He came to be a Suffering Servant. And, that's why it is in God's character to suffer. He put so much care and joy and love into creating us that when we disobey and dishonor Him he suffers. It is because He cares so much. Think about it. If you don't care about the school bully, do you suffer because of him? No. Suffering only comes when care is present. It happens when you want the best for those around you and they don't seem to want it for themselves.
Yes, God wants what is best for us and we are disobedient slugs. We think we know better that the One that has infinite wisdom and knowledge. We cause our Creator AND ourselves to suffer. Then, when we get back on the right track, we bring our Creator AND ourselves great joy. Yes, this is where I want to be - on the joy side.
(Father God, please forgive me for causing you to suffer. Thank you for the immense joy when I am obedient. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.)
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Suffering Servant
How could God be a suffering servant? I mean, isn't God perfect? What could cause Him pain, distress, injury, loss, a penalty, or death? Why would He patiently or willingly allow or permit it?I don't like suffering. I don't understand how God allows and participates in suffering. Yet, He has told me why.
Mark 1:41 - "And Jesus, moved with compassion..." Mark 3:5 - "...being grieved for the hardness of their hearts..."
God is moved with compassion and it grieves Him when our hearts are hard against our fellow humans. So, how does that explain suffering? Suffering comes from us. Oh, yes, it does. I love my children. Yet, as a parent, my deepest pain and distress comes from those children. When they don't recognize how I care for them or when they are on a destructive path, it causes me pain. I love my parents. Yet, a deep loss that I have felt came when my father died. I feel pain as I watch my mother go through cancer treatments. I love the father of my children. Yet, divorce has caused intense pain there. I love my husband. Yet, I know that he holds my heart and could cause devastation. Unfortunately, I have also caused others pain. Unfeeling words spoken without thought, rash judgement made without knowing all the details, taking for granted care and consideration provided for me - all this results in suffering.
How is it that Jesus could suffer? His love for us is so great that when we step outside what is good for us and harden our hearts to Him, it grieves Him. He suffers. We suffer. Ouch.
None the less, Jesus does what is right. He is the truth. If you read the first part of Mark 3, it tells of Jesus healing even though He had been set up by the hard hearts of men. He wanted men to desire the healing of the injured one. But they didn't. They only wanted to "catch" him violating one of their own laws. Take note, Jesus didn't violate His law.
Sadly, suffering will remain as long as we are disobedient.
(Father God, forgive me for causing you pain. Thank you for the forgiveness you freely and quickly offer. Help me to be aware of when I am causing the suffering of others so that I may repent of that. Thank you for spending time talking with me and teaching me. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.)
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Faithful and Correcting
This may seem like an odd title for a blog entry but it is very representative of my past few weeks. My body is physically tired from the stress of my job and the mental work that seems to surround every day. God has been faithful to provide a job for me. The job allows me to have a place to live, food to eat, and stuff I want. I have allowed the physical tiredness to distract me from the provision of God. Tonight, I was corrected.
Yes, God is faithful to give me what I need in the form of physical things. He is also faithful to give me what I need spiritually and mentally even when that means correcting me. Our church has a visiting evangelist this week. Tonights lesson was for me. It was all about being a mature Christian. 1. Mature Christians do not gossip. There is always an encouraging, uplifting, building message from a mature Christian. God showed me that I have some growing up to do. 2. Mature Christians see the blessings of burdens. God has been faithful to call to remembrance how the trials and burdens I've been through have been for His purpose. He's been working with me on this for some time. 3. Mature Christians know that to live IS Christ and to die is gain. God has much for me to learn here though He only gives me what I can handle each time.
(Lord God, forgive me for my loose lips, for the hurtful things I've said, for the negative tone about my church, for each time I have fallen short. Thank you for bridging the gulf between us so that I can know You. I cannot do this under my power, You alone are the power needed. I pray for that power to be evident through my life. Thank you for the salvation You have given to me. In Jesus name, I pray.)
Yes, God is faithful to give me what I need in the form of physical things. He is also faithful to give me what I need spiritually and mentally even when that means correcting me. Our church has a visiting evangelist this week. Tonights lesson was for me. It was all about being a mature Christian. 1. Mature Christians do not gossip. There is always an encouraging, uplifting, building message from a mature Christian. God showed me that I have some growing up to do. 2. Mature Christians see the blessings of burdens. God has been faithful to call to remembrance how the trials and burdens I've been through have been for His purpose. He's been working with me on this for some time. 3. Mature Christians know that to live IS Christ and to die is gain. God has much for me to learn here though He only gives me what I can handle each time.
(Lord God, forgive me for my loose lips, for the hurtful things I've said, for the negative tone about my church, for each time I have fallen short. Thank you for bridging the gulf between us so that I can know You. I cannot do this under my power, You alone are the power needed. I pray for that power to be evident through my life. Thank you for the salvation You have given to me. In Jesus name, I pray.)
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Information Overflow
Today has been a great day of learning. Our Sunday school lesson was from Daniel. Our pastor preached on creation for the morning service. The evening lesson was from 2 Thessalonians dealing with the end times. It was wonderful. I have much to consider and much for which I am thankful.
It was incredibly comforting knowing that God revealed himself to a worldly leader in Daniel. It was the king who saw that it was the Son of God with the 3 believers in the fire. I mused at the thought that others can see God with us during the times of the hottest trial if we rely on Him as they did. I also noted that it sometimes takes the times of trial for us to seek God's very presence in our lives and that God will bless that in accordance to His glory.
But, satan has reared his ugly head in our family. I am embarking on a study of how God views hate. What does it really mean when we speak, "I hate you"? How do those words affect God? Is this a serious offense in His eyes? If so, how serious? And finally, how can we replace those words of hate with words that are encouraging and peaceful?
(Lord God, I ask that you empower our search for Your answers on hate. I ask that you keep satan or his emissaries from meddling in our search for the truth. Build a hedge around us as we endeavor to seek Your face in this matter. Thank you for the words of encouragement in Daniel and the promise that You will never leave us. Thank you for the beautiful creation that You placed around us. Thank you for creating me in Your image and for Your purpose. Thank you that You loved me. In Jesus precious name, Amen.)
Monday, April 7, 2008
Speeding Along
During this weekend's travels I found myself speeding along the highway. I was convicted. Wow, it seems like such a small thing just a couple of miles over the speed limit - 67 in a 65. Yet, God used that to speak to me. It is rebellion. Rebellion against the governing laws. If I'm comfortable speeding along in defiance of the country's laws, am I also willing to continue on sinning in defiance of God's laws? Am I speeding along in my little sin ignoring God's call to obedience and repentance? That sin could be a continual lie, not providing all my tithe, gossip, undermining the authority of the scripture, drinking alcohol, cursing, or any number of things just barely over the speed limit. I slowed down those two miles per hour and set my cruise control. Now, I'm seeking to slow down the sneaky sin and let God be my cruise control. I love the way God shares with us when we are open to hear His voice.(Lord God, I pray that you will reveal the speeding sin in my life. Help me to turn to You for my cruise control. I thank you for being the govenor that keeps me from running away crazily. In Jesus name, Amen.)
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Thorns, Briers and the Kings Kids
Read Judges 8:16-23.
Gideon gave a Bible lesson using thorns and briers. Praise the Lord I missed that one.
Consider the testimony of Gideon in this passage. "As thou art, so were they; each one resembled the children of a king." Even as as he taught with thorns and briers, demolished a tower and fought men to the death, he carried himself as a child of the King. What is it about Gideon that these men recognized? I believe our answer to be found a few short verses later...
And Gideon said unto them, I will not rule over you, neither shall my son rule over you: the LORD shall rule over you.
There it is (verse 23). The Lord ruled Gideon's life and it was obvious to all who came in contact with him.
(Lord, thank you for the scripture from which I can learn. Help me to be recognizable as a child of the King no matter what I'm doing. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.)
Gideon gave a Bible lesson using thorns and briers. Praise the Lord I missed that one.
Consider the testimony of Gideon in this passage. "As thou art, so were they; each one resembled the children of a king." Even as as he taught with thorns and briers, demolished a tower and fought men to the death, he carried himself as a child of the King. What is it about Gideon that these men recognized? I believe our answer to be found a few short verses later...And Gideon said unto them, I will not rule over you, neither shall my son rule over you: the LORD shall rule over you.
There it is (verse 23). The Lord ruled Gideon's life and it was obvious to all who came in contact with him.
(Lord, thank you for the scripture from which I can learn. Help me to be recognizable as a child of the King no matter what I'm doing. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.)
Monday, March 3, 2008
Defining the Archives
I have many scribbles, sticky notes, marked bulletins, study guides, and sheets of paper with references to specific verses in, on, or around my desk. I am a pack rat. I have a desire to put these tidbits all together in a devotional book or some semi-organized format. The random scraps of paper aren't doing anyone good.
On this blog, when I refer to the archives, it will be one of those scribbles, devotions, or notes from a sermon that touched my life in some way. There are only so many days in a year. If I can organize even some of these oddball papers onto this blog, I will be fulfilling the desire to share what God has spoken and done for me.
(LORD, I come before You laying my desire at Your feet. I pray that You will cultivate this desire if it aligns with Your will. I pray that You will use it for Your glory and honor. Thank You for making the way for me to know You. This I pray in Jesus name alone.)
On this blog, when I refer to the archives, it will be one of those scribbles, devotions, or notes from a sermon that touched my life in some way. There are only so many days in a year. If I can organize even some of these oddball papers onto this blog, I will be fulfilling the desire to share what God has spoken and done for me.
(LORD, I come before You laying my desire at Your feet. I pray that You will cultivate this desire if it aligns with Your will. I pray that You will use it for Your glory and honor. Thank You for making the way for me to know You. This I pray in Jesus name alone.)
Friday, February 22, 2008
Single parenting with the crazy flu
Well, the flu knocked me off my high horse this week. Yup. I've been struggling to maintain a complete thought since Tuesday. It's been a long time since I was this sick. My head has been in intense pain. The doctor gave me some great medicine and I'm on the road to recovery.
When I became a single parent six years ago, it did not come to mind to prepare for this. Someone still has to get the kids to school. Someone still has to clean the house. Someone still has to fix meals. Someone still has to pay bills. Someone still has to take out the garbage. The kids do a good job of taking up some of the slack but some of it they just can't do. And, they are not supposed to do it yet. They are still kids. Neither of them have a drivers license or job.
It's times like these when I really have to cling tight to Jesus. I'm hundreds of miles away from my family. God is teaching me to rely on Him through His family, the church. If it weren't for the church, I would have no support here. Yet, I find it difficult to call on them for assistance. My pride thinks I can do this all by myself. And we all know that pride comes before a fall.
(Lord God Almighty, thank You for the love You show me each and every day in the small and sundry ways. Thank You for the love You show each moment in the great salvation You so freely offered. Thank You for the flu which reminds me that I don't have all the answers but that You do. Forgive my pride, I pray. Thank You for being my Great Physician. I pray that Your will be done in Jesus name alone.)
When I became a single parent six years ago, it did not come to mind to prepare for this. Someone still has to get the kids to school. Someone still has to clean the house. Someone still has to fix meals. Someone still has to pay bills. Someone still has to take out the garbage. The kids do a good job of taking up some of the slack but some of it they just can't do. And, they are not supposed to do it yet. They are still kids. Neither of them have a drivers license or job.
It's times like these when I really have to cling tight to Jesus. I'm hundreds of miles away from my family. God is teaching me to rely on Him through His family, the church. If it weren't for the church, I would have no support here. Yet, I find it difficult to call on them for assistance. My pride thinks I can do this all by myself. And we all know that pride comes before a fall.
(Lord God Almighty, thank You for the love You show me each and every day in the small and sundry ways. Thank You for the love You show each moment in the great salvation You so freely offered. Thank You for the flu which reminds me that I don't have all the answers but that You do. Forgive my pride, I pray. Thank You for being my Great Physician. I pray that Your will be done in Jesus name alone.)
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Oklahoma Pineapple
I've always enjoyed pineapple - from a can or even fresh. It is a sweet juicy fruit that comes in a pretty, prickly, unique container.
I learned a valuable lesson from a pineapple one summer. I had purchased a fresh pineapple for a family treat. I cut off the top, cut away the core and the rind to reveal the best part. Then, we tasted the sweet fruit. It was an every day event. Only, this time I asked my son if he wanted to plant the top.
Sure, okay. Well, we didn't really plant it. It stayed on the kitchen counter for a couple of days until I decided to do something with it. It wasn't carefully planted, I just sorta dumped it there in the compost pile with the rest of the trimmings. And then, I ignored it. But, God didn't. There was enough rain that summer to keep it watered. Then, after a period of time, I noticed that it was putting out new leaves. Hmmm... It had put down roots and begun to grow. How exciting, a pineapple in Oklahoma. This thing had been chopped off at the heart and abandoned in a pile of rotting stuff. Yet, God added some fertile soil and just enough water to cause new growth. Oh, God is good!
Did my pineapple produce any fruit? No, the harsh Oklahoma winter killed the plant before any fruit could be seen. (Of course, I didn't protect it from those harsh elements and if I had the outcome might be different.) Did that make it any less of a pineapple plant? No way. When a Christian has been cut up and tossed out - emotionally, spiritually or even physically - by this world, God still provides the soil of His Word and the water of His living Spirit to produce growth. And, for that I praise Him.
There is more that God wants to tell about Oklahoma pineapples... Stay tuned.
I learned a valuable lesson from a pineapple one summer. I had purchased a fresh pineapple for a family treat. I cut off the top, cut away the core and the rind to reveal the best part. Then, we tasted the sweet fruit. It was an every day event. Only, this time I asked my son if he wanted to plant the top.
Sure, okay. Well, we didn't really plant it. It stayed on the kitchen counter for a couple of days until I decided to do something with it. It wasn't carefully planted, I just sorta dumped it there in the compost pile with the rest of the trimmings. And then, I ignored it. But, God didn't. There was enough rain that summer to keep it watered. Then, after a period of time, I noticed that it was putting out new leaves. Hmmm... It had put down roots and begun to grow. How exciting, a pineapple in Oklahoma. This thing had been chopped off at the heart and abandoned in a pile of rotting stuff. Yet, God added some fertile soil and just enough water to cause new growth. Oh, God is good!
Did my pineapple produce any fruit? No, the harsh Oklahoma winter killed the plant before any fruit could be seen. (Of course, I didn't protect it from those harsh elements and if I had the outcome might be different.) Did that make it any less of a pineapple plant? No way. When a Christian has been cut up and tossed out - emotionally, spiritually or even physically - by this world, God still provides the soil of His Word and the water of His living Spirit to produce growth. And, for that I praise Him.
There is more that God wants to tell about Oklahoma pineapples... Stay tuned.
Friday, January 4, 2008
New Year, New Post
Surprise, I'm posting a new entry.
I've been land locked for some time. I am now hoping to get back to my daily swim in the blogging sea on a regular basis. I've refreshed my mind with the original intent of this blog and am looking to God for what comes next.
Psalm 4:2, 8
God is talking here and He's talking to me because I'm one of those humans - those "sons of men" even though I'm a daughter. How long will I love vanity? Wait, what does vanity really mean in biblical terms? Let's go searching... The best online tool I've ever encountered is located at http://www.biblegateway.com/. There's a dictionary tool at http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/dictionaries. Searching Easton's dictionary for vanity doesn't provide a definiton. But, searching for leasing provides that it's an old English word meaning lies or lying. Hmmm... In the mean time, I found a biblical definition of vanity - "emptiness". Looking over the entry from http://blueletterbible.org/ which references the International Standard Bible Encyclopaedia, I see that "breath of air, vapor" would also be an appropriate definition.
Now that I'm armed with those definitions, let's see what God is asking me today...
Good evening (oops, morning) to you all.
I've been land locked for some time. I am now hoping to get back to my daily swim in the blogging sea on a regular basis. I've refreshed my mind with the original intent of this blog and am looking to God for what comes next.
Psalm 4:2, 8
- O ye sons of men, how long will ye turn my glory into shame? how long will you love vanity and seek after leasing? Selah.
- I will both lay me down in peace and sleep: for thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety.
God is talking here and He's talking to me because I'm one of those humans - those "sons of men" even though I'm a daughter. How long will I love vanity? Wait, what does vanity really mean in biblical terms? Let's go searching... The best online tool I've ever encountered is located at http://www.biblegateway.com/. There's a dictionary tool at http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/dictionaries. Searching Easton's dictionary for vanity doesn't provide a definiton. But, searching for leasing provides that it's an old English word meaning lies or lying. Hmmm... In the mean time, I found a biblical definition of vanity - "emptiness". Looking over the entry from http://blueletterbible.org/ which references the International Standard Bible Encyclopaedia, I see that "breath of air, vapor" would also be an appropriate definition.
Now that I'm armed with those definitions, let's see what God is asking me today...
- O human, how long will you pervert my reputation with sin? how long will you prefer emptiness and seek after lies?
Good evening (oops, morning) to you all.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
New Academic Year and Cats
Each time a new Academic Year begins, I get tired. Not just a little tired, but exhausted. There are so many things to do, so many things to pay for, so many things to forget, so many things.
But, there's also an excitement that is contagious. Suddenly, this flurry of activity spurs new ideas and adventures. Everywhere but with the cats.
We are greeted as we come in the door at the end of the day. First there is the "I am so glad to see you," meow. Then comes an exasperated, "Why did you leave me alone all day?" meow. "Why weren't you here to feed me when I wanted?" seems to be the cry. And, "Why didn't you come home just to pet me?" rises from around my feet as I try to unload groceries. "Don't I deserve a treat today?" says the pretty kitty as we peer in the refridgerator together.
"Pet me!" "Feed me!" "Brush me!" "Love me!" "Care for me!"
I wonder how many times I sound like that to my Heavenly Father? He has consistently done each of those things time and time again. Everytime I seek Him during the day, He's right there. He smooths the fur ruffled by the world. He feeds the empty spirit with His Word. He brushes away the tangles of sin. He loves and cares for me far better that I can care for my cats. I know that the companionship with my cats is only a small reflection of the companionship that He offers. You see, at the end of the day, I get to crawl up in His lap, make myself comfortable, and purr.
But, there's also an excitement that is contagious. Suddenly, this flurry of activity spurs new ideas and adventures. Everywhere but with the cats.
We are greeted as we come in the door at the end of the day. First there is the "I am so glad to see you," meow. Then comes an exasperated, "Why did you leave me alone all day?" meow. "Why weren't you here to feed me when I wanted?" seems to be the cry. And, "Why didn't you come home just to pet me?" rises from around my feet as I try to unload groceries. "Don't I deserve a treat today?" says the pretty kitty as we peer in the refridgerator together.
"Pet me!" "Feed me!" "Brush me!" "Love me!" "Care for me!"
I wonder how many times I sound like that to my Heavenly Father? He has consistently done each of those things time and time again. Everytime I seek Him during the day, He's right there. He smooths the fur ruffled by the world. He feeds the empty spirit with His Word. He brushes away the tangles of sin. He loves and cares for me far better that I can care for my cats. I know that the companionship with my cats is only a small reflection of the companionship that He offers. You see, at the end of the day, I get to crawl up in His lap, make myself comfortable, and purr.
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