Made in the Shade

"Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty." Psalm 91:1

Whenever I hear the word "shadow", my first recollection is a poem by Robert Louis Stevenson. As a young girl I memorized this verse:

"I have a little shadow that goes in and out with me,

And what can be the use of him is more than I can see

He is very, very like me from the heels up to my head;

And I see him jump before me, when I jump into my bed."

In this literary work, a shadow sounds playful and fun. It presents the idea of constant companionship that always delighted my heart as a child. A shadow was an insurance policy against loneliness. A playmate.

Taking a look at Psalm 91:1, my heart is thrilled with the idea of resting in the Saviour's shadow. What does it mean? How can I get there? What does His shadow provide?

A shadow is created by light, and Christ is the Light of the world. The longer the cast of light toward an object, the longer the shadow. So many spiritual applications are found in that one scientific description alone. The more we abide or dwell with Christ, the greater our reflection of Him. If the light source gets too wide with distractions of lesser loves, then the reflection becomes blurred. Similarly, the wider our view, our acceptance and tolerance, the more marred our reflection of Christ becomes.

This one verse alone uncovers 5 truths for anyone who longs to grow in Christ, giving encouragement and direction. Under the shadow of Jesus, we are made in the shade as we dwell under His shadow, find protection, rest, know the Shadow Maker and reflect Him to those around us.

God longs that our hearts establish a home in Him. He longs for us to live under His shadow. He offers safety in abiding, giving refuge and comfort from the storms of life. He invites us to be and rest in His presence. The outcome of this precious nearness is others seeing Christ in us.

I feel a refreshing breeze blowing. Let's recline under the Saviour's shadow.

I long to be a shadow of my God who stays with me,

His protection and His shelter are much more than I can see.

I desire to be just like Him from my heels up to my head,

Resting in His presence, doing everything He's said.

An Untroubled Heart

"Don't let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in Me.....I am leaving you with a gift - peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don't be troubled or afraid." John 14:1, 27

Do you see the repetition? Twice Christ commands, "don't be troubled". How are you doing with that? If you are anything like me, it is unbelievably easy to let our hearts fill with anxiety. Not to make you more nervous, but just think of the day ahead. What is causing concern and stress to rise? I'm guessing there is at least one thing that's fighting to sabotage your peace. Are you waiting for a doctor to call with test results? Is there a sudden, unexpected bill to pay? Are lay-offs at work making the security of employment uncertain? Do you have a child or loved one going through a crisis and you long to help but you don't know how? Are there inexpressible, inner, personal storms brewing that are unsettling and you're wondering if answers will come, and if when they do, will they be answers you want to hear?

There are countless things that try to steal our peace. The truth however is this, all these circumstances above, and many others, don't steal our peace, we lose it. Oh, it might not feel like we have an option to keep it, but we do. When reactions rush to rob us of rest, without reigning in our response we will remain powerless and peace-less. 

God's word is very clear that in this world we will have trouble, but He promises us we can have an untroubled heart even while living a troubled life. An untroubled heart doesn't deny events that legitimately need to be discussed, but they don't have to leave us living in distress.  

Jesus told His disciples that He was giving them a gift. It was a gift of peace of both mind and heart. Jesus comes to us knowing our need. When we find ourselves feeling lost and confused, He offers us divine comfort.

We will face challenges that we cannot control, no matter how hard we try. Instead of using all our energy fighting to avoid all that can rattle our nerves, we need to be leaning into the Lord. The bottom line is that it's not tranquil circumstances that keep inner peace. It's Jesus, our Prince of Peace.

Have you misplaced your peace? Do the worries of this world have you anxious about tomorrow? May some of the lyrics from one of my favourite songs bring peace to your spirit. Jesus desires you to experience an untroubled heart in Him.

"In this age of uncertainty, questions come to my mind.

What is waiting ahead for me, and the rest of mankind?

Fear not tomorrow. God is already there.

He's charting the course you take.

He sees each hidden snare.

He's waiting to guide you through each burden and care.

Fear not tomorrow. God is already there.

Are you troubled o're things to come?

Is your future unsure?

Are you dreading the coming dawn? A long day to endure?

Fear not tomorrow. God is already there.

He's charting the course you take.

He sees each hidden snare.

He's waiting to guide you through each burden and care.

Fear not tomorrow. God is already there."

Songwriter: Carolyn Adkins

A Fragrant Home

"...The house was filled with the fragrance." John 12:3b

I enjoy going to "Open House" opportunities. When tickets go on sale for "House Tours", if I'm available, I'm quick to gather a couple of friends and together we head out for a day of inspiration. I love seeing how others decorate, often gaining simple, inexpensive insights on how I can rearrange things I already own to make my home feel fresh.

Have you noticed one of the tricks of the trade when you're checking out a home, whether for purchase or pleasure? Often scent is used to make the atmosphere more welcoming. Scent can actually be used to control behaviour. Even a subtle aroma can have a powerful affect. It can stimulate feelings of excitement, relaxation and happiness. Real estate agents are wise in suggesting homeowners have a gentle, fragrant candle burning, often in the kitchen, when prospective buyers visit. When used strategically, these aromas can greatly impact our response. 

Think about it. Whether you wish to admit it or not, homes have odors. I just have to mention a couple of words and immediately you'll know what I mean. Pets. Cultural spices. Smoking. I could continue, but you get what I'm saying. Maybe that's why the verse from John took my attention. "The house was filled with the fragrance."

The choice of the word fragrance was no doubt intentional. It means a pleasant or delicate, sweet smell. It's not overpowering. It's gentle. It comes to our sense of scent in a tender, non-threatening way. It's lovely and agreeable. We desire to breathe it in, letting it fill us with delight.

What type of fragrance fills your home? What perfume permeates each room? In John 12, Mary poured out her heart in an offering to the Lord and the scent suffused the entire house. It was fragrance that arose not only from incense but intimacy. Mary's gift is the fragrance of worship. It's the aroma of one abandoning her life to her Saviour. It's beautiful. Desirous. Memorable. 

Years ago, my husband gave me a framed verse of word art. The word "HOME" was written in the forefront, but inlayed behind were the following words:

"If these walls could speak of things they have seen...of things that they remember well...Stories of love, gatherings of Family and Friends...laughter. If these rooms could talk they would share joyful tales of sunsets at dinner...of children playing hide and seek. If these window panes were eyes they would have seen it all...Each tear, each sigh, each hug and every smile. Every dream there is to live. If this house could show you the lives that take part within these walls...It would display unconditional love, unforgettable memories, unending moments forever tucked away...That's what these walls would say."

May our homes be filled with the fragrance of the Lord as we offer our lives to Him. The spiritual scent of our home depends on us. Those devoted to Jesus will have an attractive aroma that others will desire to inhale deeply. Take a breath right now. Is it there? Do you smell the fragrance of sacrifice, unfailing love, forgiveness and abundant life? As the rooms of our life yield more and more to Christ those who enter will be met with the aroma of His love and desire to know Him more.

Open Your Eyes!

"...you remain guilty because you claim you can see." John 9:41

Have you ever woken in the middle of the night? The bedroom is dark. You are engulfed in a heaviness. Nothing is clear. At first you struggle to see, but as your eyes begin to adjust to the dim atmosphere you soon begin to distinguish the outline of familiar objects. Black has become gray. The gray doesn't feel as ominous. Gray is comfortable, so you rest in its surroundings.

Gray is a frightening colour. It can lead us to accept the unacceptable and tolerate the intolerable. It gives the distorted view of comfort, shading truth. We settle into living with the assumption we can see when we cannot. This contentment sadly makes us unconscious of a greater need.

Inaccurate spiritual vision will result in more than a stubbed toe from stumbling around in poorly lit environments. Adjusting to a lifestyle that denies the light of Christ and convincing ourselves that just saying we see equates to seeing, without evidence of Jesus shining and abiding in us, we're walking the wrong side of the divine divide my friend.

Do you have assurance of salvation? Without a doubt, do you have the confidence that if your life was to end in the next moment you would spend eternity with Christ? On what basis do you stake that claim? 

As I write this, my heart is filled with concern for those who have falsely convinced themselves that they are ok. They adamantly affirm sight, but they are walking in the dark. Like the Pharisees they have mingled with truth, sat in the midst of believers, spoken the vocabulary of the religious and proudly still maintain their status as seeing.

Matthew in his gospel puts it this way, "Not everyone who calls out to Me, 'Lord! Lord!' will enter the Kingdom of heaven. Only those who actually do the will of My Father in heaven will enter." (Matthew 7:21). When Jesus comes and asks, "Would you like to get well?" (John 5:6b), they refuse to admit that they are sick.

Admitting your blindness brings forgiveness and freedom. We can't just shut our eyes to truth pretending all is well. I think we all know when we are living in self-deception. Jesus is the light. St. Augustine said, "It is of no advantage to be near the light...if the eyes are closed." 

I urge you to open your eyes. The Light is all around you. Be brave enough to admit the blinders that keep you walking in hypocrisy. Admit your charade of sight. You may be fooling some, but God is looking past your eyes to your heart. He longs to hear you echo the words spoken by the blind man Jesus healed, "But I know this: I was blind, and now I can see!"

Don't Stop Believing

"Jesus told them, 'This is the only work God wants from you. Believe in the One He has sent." John 6:29

Multiple times I have heard people express their desire to know the will of God. Maybe they are facing some decisions ahead and they long to know the path to pursue. I've walked that road myself. Choices are before me and I'm seeking the Lord for divine guidance. Do we come to Him trusting He will supply or are we doubtful, wondering how and if He will speak? How paralyzed many Christ-followers are by unbelief.

Before we can believe God, we must make the decision to believe in God. That's not just saying, "Oh, I know there's a God out there somewhere." Many acknowledge the existence of God, but have no personal relationship with Him at all. Countless sitting in Sunday pews rest on their weekly attendance for salvation. This faulty trust is a salvation by works which Christ denies clearly when He says, "The Spirit alone gives eternal life. Human effort accomplishes nothing..." (John 6:63a). 

We must first receive Him by faith. Multiple times throughout the Gospel of John we read how believing in God brings eternal life. With that belief comes a recognition of His holiness and our sin. Let's be clear, there is one way, and only one way to be saved. It is not true that all roads lead to heaven. God's one and only Son came to earth to be the sacrifice for our sin. When we confess and repent of our sin, Christ forgives. When we believe God raised Jesus from the grave, trusting in the completed work of the cross, we are saved. 

Now, with salvation secure, Jesus tells us to keep believing. This is His will for us. This "work" of believing requires action. This is not a passive noun, but a verb. It's the work and walk of faith. Jesus is telling us to continue to actively believe in Him. Belief in itself is useless. For faith to live and breathe it must walk depending on God. 

I think if we look closely, our lives would reveal our trust displayed in so many other directions. We believe in ourselves, our spouse, our possessions, our vocations, our church, our friends, our family, our wealth, our health and if any of these are shattered, our belief system fails us. Not so with God.

For our walk of belief to be worthy, it will be challenged to keep us moving forward with Him. Belief is not a one-time, done deal event. It's a continual daily, hourly, minute by minute, second by second decision. As we exercise our belief it will grow. Each step of faith empowers the next step of faith. 

Have you made the decision to believe in God? If so, where do you need to believe Him today? Take my hand. We'll walk this road believing God together.

Win/Win

"...I am filled with joy at His success. He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less." John 3:29b, 30

I sat behind her that night at the awards ceremony. I'll never forget her. She sat erect. Back straight. Head held high. Hands clasped. With each name called I saw the longing. She sat in hopeful silence. Barely breathing she waited. An anxious and hopeful yearning written all across her appearance. Her hands sometimes fidgeted in nervousness and anticipation. Until the last name was called. She then stood with poise and refinement, leaving quickly. She had not received any recognition.

My heart ached for her as I remembered my own High School story. Effort unrewarded. Being second or third doesn't bring the acclaim. "Close" or "almost" won't win the medal. Students around her were acknowledged in various forms of the Arts, but all her best work wasn't good enough. Others were better in the field she was pursuing.

When others are promoted in the area of our specialty, how do we respond? It's hard to see another's impact and influence gaining and growing at the expense of our own. Outwardly we may congratulate with stoicism, hiding our emotions, but inwardly our hearts and minds are questioning our worth. Why wasn't it me? Why is it always the other person? How come I don't measure up? Doesn't anyone see all that I'm doing?

John the Baptist arrived on the scene as a forerunner of Christ. His birth story was miraculous. Jesus Himself says of him in Matthew 11:11, "I tell you the truth, of all who have ever lived, none is greater than John the Baptist..." Can there be any higher credentials than the Son of God declaring such a statement over his life? Yet he was not first, nor would he ever be. His mission always was to give his all for the message of another.

It was while baptizing new believers one day when John's disciples came to him saying, "Rabbi, the man you met on the other side of the Jordan River, the one you identified as the Messiah, is also baptizing people. And everybody is going to Him instead of coming to us." 

"Everybody" the superlative exaggeration of the envious. But honestly, don't we too respond this way? Feeling overlooked we erroneously emphasize another's impact and influence. They have everything. We have nothing. Neither statement is true. I love how John humbly and accurately reminds his disciples that everything we have is a gift from God. John knew who he was, and he knew who Jesus was. Although some of their ministry may have overlapped, Jesus was the Messiah and that made Him uniquely different. From this place of understanding John was spared bitterness and jealousy. Instead, he could genuinely rejoice when others left him to follow Christ. It was a win/win situation!

John's response was not only one of joy and celebration, but he laboured on. He continued in his calling knowing all he was doing was for the glory of another. There can be no ego, protection of position, competition or self-promotion. When God is our only real satisfaction, we can be successful whatever we do. 

Father, I admit to sometimes being insecure about my place in Your Kingdom. Lord, I invite You to do a new work in my heart. Do not quickly release me from this lesson. Help me to genuinely rejoice when others are succeeding in the area of longing that is dearest to my heart, knowing that the smallest gesture done in service and honour to You is the greatest treasure of all.

Contend or Comply

"These are the commands and regulations that the LORD gave to the people of Israel through Moses while they were camped on the plains of Moab beside the Jordan River, across from Jericho." Numbers 36:13

Boundaries. Instructions. Legal requirements. Commands. Regulations. How do you respond to these words? Does the hair stand up on the back of your neck just reading them? Do you feel an immediate inner resistance? The majority of us hate being told what to do. Think about the last item you purchased that included a sheet of instructions. We even toss it in favour of doing things our own way.

Recently I was gently rebuked for being a "rule girl". I confess, it's true. I remember when I was expecting our son. I had never been pregnant before and I sought the advice and wisdom of others. One book in particular became my guide for diet, exercise and general care. I followed it exactly. Because of its encouragement, I ate foods I really didn't enjoy for the health of my baby. I gave up coffee and chocolate. I mean, if the book suggested it, I employed it. After all, it was only for nine months. Surely I could give this child the best nutrients to aid development for such a short period of time. To me, each sacrifice was worth it.

After my last surgery I was sent home with instructions for wound care. I was given direction on the most advantageous sleep position and a plan of helpful physiotherapy. Although none of it was enjoyable, it was for my benefit to follow these requirements to promote healing. Medical professionals who know far more than I, were providing advice for my well-being.

When conduct is placed under the control of another, so many rebel. Christians will argue that because of Jesus we now live under grace. I get that, and I understand it, but it doesn't mean we throw off all authority and do whatever we please. That grace statement was never meant to become a blanket covering disobedience. A great number of people, Christ-followers included, desire to push the limit on everything. They support their actions by somehow attaching God's name in defense. They umbrella their rebellion in the name of the Lord. Seriously? Even in areas as valuable as adhering to a physician's insight for surgical recovery based on experience and years of training. Do we really think we always know better?

Terms of law and order frequent the word of God. Whether we like them or not, they are purposeful and for our protection. Scripture is clear regarding the discipline we face when we neglect to follow God's instructions. Directions from those He has allowed to be in roles of expertise or authority over us become training ground for our responses to biblical doctrine. As long as we're not being asked to do something in opposition to God's word, just do it. Surrender self and pride. How does defiance testify to those watching our lives? We harm our witness far too often by claiming our rights, contending and not complying to simple directives that really are in place by God for our welfare.

What is one practical compliance you could yield to today? Don't make everything a fighting match. It's not worth it. Most things weren't intended to provoke but to provide and protect. Why not thank the Lord today for His sovereignty over all the boundaries, instructions, legal requirements, commands and regulations He has allowed to touch your life and glorify Him through your obedience.

Renewed Mindset

"What joy for those whose strength comes from the LORD, who have set their minds on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem...They will continue to grow stronger, and each of them will appear before God in Jerusalem." Psalm 84:5, 7b

How many incomplete projects have you started? If you were to look around your home right now, would you find items that indicate loss of interest? You began with gusto and excitement but as time passed you just got tired or bored of the endeavour and now there are partially finished attempts of desire around your home, filling closets and plastic bins. Passion alone only provides incentive for so long. It is not enough to carry you through.

Setting our minds on things yields accomplishment. Nothing is achieved without determination and desire. Once we focus on a task with unyielding persistence, it will be completed. Without an inner drive, few things reach fulfillment. A resolve must be mixed with the thought or as soon as the task gets hard or the path faces resistance, it's too easy to abandon the mission and walk away.

The Psalmist writes about setting our minds on a pilgrimage. Although the traveler's destination was geographical, it was first intellectual. A deliberate decision was made on a destination. Incredibly, instead of getting weary as the walk continued, their strength increased. With God-given power their aim is sure and their goal will be reached. The objective isn't just entertained, it is fulfilled.

What is that desired result? God. To come and appear before God. The love and longing for each one to personally see Him and meet with Him. Not content to just be counted in the congregation. Spurgeon writes it this way, "Not merely to be in the assembly, but to appear before God was the object of each devout Israelite. Would to God it were the sincere desire of all who in these days mingle in our religious gatherings. Unless we realize the presence of God we have done nothing; the mere gathering together is nothing worth."

As Christ-followers who set out to attend places of worship weekly, what motivates our pilgrimage? What gets us up and moving, rushing the family to get ready and spend the good part of our day with other brothers and sisters in the Lord? A recent study found that a large majority of those participating in religious services did so with a desire to grow closer to God. Certainly relationship and discipleship are key reasons to prompt our participation. We need to be taught biblical truth, grounded in the faith and growing in the Lord. But, are we missing the dearest element? Are our minds set on pilgrimage to simply come before God? Do we even stop and think about encountering Him there?

For many believers, the routine of the Sabbath setting out is just what we do on Sundays. It is more social than sacred. Conversations of worshippers in church foyers reveal how few have come with a heart to earnestly see God. It's rare, or possibly even completely non-existent, that church attendance is solely with biblical reasons. 

Lord, would You awaken us to a fresh mindset. Would You fill our hearts with a longing to see You. May desiring Your presence truly be what drives us anytime we gather together in Your name.

Enemy Territory

"Your ancestors did the same thing...they discouraged the people of Israel from entering the land the LORD was giving them." Numbers 32:8-9

Having just received a fresh word from the Lord, excitedly we want to share the revelation. We seek out friends who we believe will rejoice with us and join in our enthusiasm. Surprisingly it doesn't happen. Instead of excitement their response casts a cloud of negativity over our joy. Experts in pessimism, they begin pointing out all the reasons we shouldn't embrace new steps of faith.

This really is nothing new. Moses spoke of the generations of Israelites who discouraged their people from entering the land of promise. Within the family there can be those whose vision is limited and their view hindered by doubt, inadequacy and worry. Sadly, they can hold such influence that God's people can lose their desire to walk in obedience. It's a serious sin to discourage the heart of another Christ-follower.

I know we need to exercise wisdom when we perceive the Lord is leading us in a new direction but why are some believers so quick to shoot down another's spiritual fervour? I can't tell you the number of times I've presented something with passion and been met with blank stares. Apathetic words follow. Their unexpected replies hurt. I often think it feels like how the character Joe Fox responds to Kathleen Kelly in the movie "You've Got Mail". Kathleen has just shared her heartache over an unforeseen verbal attack she received, and with compassion Joe responds, "You were expecting to see someone you trusted and met the enemy instead." Wow! No truer words! Definitely discouragement is enemy territory. I think often if Satan can just dampen our spirit at the gate, we will begin to doubt and question whatever it was that had initially had us so eager. 

What inspires discouragement? Why are some so prone to raining on another's parade? I really don't believe that every word from a naysayer is to intentionally shoot us down. Not all responses are truthful indicators that we are being misled, or that in haste have put the horse before the cart. Careless words can flow from cold hearts. Jealous or envious of our expressions of joy and enthusiasm, others can resent our happiness. From places of insecurity and selfishness they aim to dissuade. Possibly fear plays a role. Maybe it's hearing their dream given again to another while God has seemingly remained silent to their prayers.

It's irrational to just dismiss every critical comment. It may be your best counsellor, being used to protect you from foolishly rushing ahead. But after seeking divine discernment if the Lord continues to confirm direction, in courage and resolve we need to walk in obedience to whatever God has revealed. 

Let's decide we will not be instruments of discouragement in the family of God. If genuine caution needs to be given it can be expressed in a loving, caring, sympathetic way. Life is challenging and we need to surround ourselves with those who will celebrate with us, encouraging great steps of faith. The Lord has land for you to enter. Join hands with those who will pray you forward, cheering you on and giving God glory!

Rhythm of Remembrance

"The LORD said to Moses, 'Give these instructions to the people of Israel. The offerings you present as special gifts are a pleasing aroma to Me; they are My food. See to it that they are brought at the appointed times and offered according to My instructions." Numbers 28:1-2

Throughout the Old Testament we see God commanding sacrifices and celebrations. These ancient Biblical feasts had powerful and prophetic significance for God's people then and are still relevant for our spiritual growth today. Numbers 28 ushers in two chapters concerning offerings that were to be presented to God at appointed times. These were daily, weekly, monthly and annual occasions to remember and rejoice in the Lord.

As I reflect over our Christian calendar today, we have pretty much reduced these intentional times of mindfulness to Easter, Christmas, weekly services and the occasional participation in the Lord's Supper. We know that Christ fulfilled the law and came as the perfect sacrifice for sin making these required offerings both redundant and offensive, but along the way we have lost the gift that these perpetual reminders were to the people of God. These focused, extended times gave a pause in life's routine to remember who God is, who we are, and in humble recognition respond to Him with gratitude and praise. 

The Lord said that these offerings were His food. F. B. Meyer writes that "We often speak of ourselves hungering for God. Do we sufficiently realize that He hungers for our love, our whole-hearted devotion, our fellowship with Him?" That's really hard for our finite minds to comprehend. Not that God needs us in any way, but He longs for us. How often do we leave His desire unsatisfied when we neglect prayer, time in His Word, personal praise and corporate worship? His hunger feeds on the love and obedience of His children. The sacrifices we make of ourselves rise as a pleasing aroma to the Lord.

How can we preserve a deep sense of God? How do we keep a regular rhythm of remembrance? Hebrew 13:15 encourages us that instead of celebrating less, now with the coming of our Saviour, we are to celebrate more! The writer of Hebrews says, "Therefore, let us offer through Jesus a continual sacrifice of praise to God, proclaiming our allegiance to His name."

With the cross as our altar and our lives as the sacrifice may we take time to consider the perfect Lamb slain for us. Lina Abujamra, in her Bible study "Table in the Wilderness", writes "We are likely to forget what we don't make an effort to remember." Considering how our offerings to the Lord rise as a sweet fragrance and in some divine way nourish His heart, may we intensely desire to daily remember Jesus. 

"The Lord longs for our companionship. He waits for us to meet Him in the inner chambers of our hearts. Let's not keep Him waiting there alone. Again the loneliness of our Lord comes to me more and more. How few of us are concerned about satisfying His heart. How I hear Him saying, I thirst, Give Me to drink. May my Lord never let me grow cold in my longing to be a cup in His hand for the quenching of His own royal thirst." Oswald Chambers

Uncommon Living

"...you failed to demonstrate My holiness..." God speaking to Moses, Numbers 27:14b

The phrase above has me searching my own heart this morning. Moses, a chosen, faithful leader of God's people, a man described as speaking to God face-to-face, fell short of living a life that revealed God's holiness. Moses had rebelled against God's instructions and misrepresented Him before the Israelites when he struck the rock instead of speaking to it at the waters of Meribah as God had commanded. We might trivialize his disobedience thinking it's not a big deal, but if we do, we haven't begun to understand God's holiness. When we neglect to consider His holiness, we lose the sense of our sinfulness.

Do we ever stop to really ponder the holiness of God? When we burst into His presence with a sudden need, do we remember that He is not only always on hand but also holy? Yes, He is both Father and Friend, but first He is holy. This description of our Creator both fascinates and terrifies. What does it mean that God is holy?

God's holiness runs through the entire narrative of Scripture. The first time the word "holy" is used in the Bible is Genesis 2:3 as God blesses the seventh day and makes it holy. The ground that Moses stood on in Exodus 3:5 is defined by God as being holy. Holy is the primary way that God is described throughout His word. Holy is His name. Holiness encompasses the many attributes of God's character. His sovereignty, righteousness, purity, love and mercy are all evident through His holiness. It's His "other-ness" that sets Him apart and includes the awesome, indescribable mystery that we may never fully grasp and that should call our hearts to swell with reverence.

As children of God, we are called to be holy as He is holy. A tall order that can only be lived out by the Holy Spirit living in us. Absolutely nothing within us is holy, but as God called Moses to demonstrate His holiness, He calls us, as His children, to do the same. We must serve the Holy One in holiness.

Like Moses, I have failed to make His holiness visible. Our obedience to the Lord puts His holiness on display. When our lives are characterized by God's goodness, justice and love, others see Christ. Our entire lives must be dedicated to God. We need to easily be able to invite Him to sit with us in every situation knowing our choices won't distance us in His presence. Our flesh is the greatest enemy to unveiling His holiness. Too often actions are tainted with self and opportunities to make Christ known are sabotaged as we indulge our personal desires. Every aspect of our life needs to be an avenue for us to show the world the holiness of God, a holiness that captivates our life, transforming us and making us more like His Son.

God alone is holy. His holiness in us as believers is what sets us apart and makes us different, Lord willing drawing other to Him. R. C. Sproul has said, "What makes something sacred - what makes something holy - is the touch of God upon it. When the One who is Himself other and different touches that which is ordinary, it becomes extraordinary. When He touches you, you become uncommon. The difference between the profane and the holy is the difference between the common and the uncommon, between the earthly and the heavenly."

Lord, help Your followers to bear witness to Your holiness. May we not fail to live uncommon lives for Your glory! 

Quote, The Holiness of God Series, Part 5, The Meaning of Holiness, R. C. Sproul.

Spiritual Attack or Spirit-Led Direction

"Then Balaam confessed to the angel of the LORD, 'I have sinned. I didn't realize You were standing in the road to block my way. I will return home if You are against my going.'" Numbers 22:34

Resistance. Roadblocks. Balking, talking donkeys. How do we interpret opposition? Difficult circumstances can suggest we are on the wrong path or they can be spiritual warfare as the enemy obstructs the way to our obedience. How do we know their source and what do we do when such a hurdle happens?

The majority of situations can be interpreted two ways. Differentiating can be difficult. Although a possible tool, we can't judge God's will simply by circumstances. Often, we can assume an open door means 'go' and a closed door means 'stop'. It really depends on whose hand is holding the handle on the other side. Access can be the enemy making his path appear easy and seducing us to pursue, or God's "yes" to our obedient following. Denial can be our adversary acting in anger because he is hostile to the steps of faith we are taking and the harvest for God's Kingdom that will come, or God's "no" to a path we're walking without His blessing.

How do we determine, when conflict arises, who is initiating the pause? Is it God testing my resolve or Satan tempting me to relinquish the mission? Do I keep pressing on in faith or is God saying enough is enough? It can be a real, honest struggle. Even for those who have been walking with the Lord for many years, we need divine wisdom to discern the steps ahead. If it's Satan at the helm, we armour up to conquer. If it's the Lord's method of guidance, we want the grace to surrender.

Balaam is an interesting case study. At face value he appears to be walking in obedience to the Lord, yet the fact that he entertained the idea that God would change His mind, asking Him a second time for His direction when He had already clearly spoken and revealed His will, gives evidence that Balaam was looking for a way around God's instructions, desiring instead to do his own will. God does eventually relinquish to the wicked prophet's wishes adding one condition: Balaam can only do what God tells him to do.

Just because God complied, He didn't condone. As Balaam was travelling back to Moab multiple times the angel of the LORD stood in his way. He didn't recognize the re-direction as God's resistance. Why? Because in his heart he wanted his own way. Although his words spoke faithfulness his actions spoke selfishness. 

What helps me walk out this confusion of resistance being God or Satan is to recognize God's ultimate sovereignty. Even when a trial is from Satan, it has first sifted through the hands of God. Every trial is ultimately under God's wise and loving control. Maybe our indecision becomes the enemy's greatest weapon. If he can just slow us down, muddle our thoughts and incite hesitation. Instead, focusing on God, spending time in prayer, and understanding that the Lord can use everything to grow our faith should usher in trust and peace. 

Some obstacles indicate something is over, others are to be overcome. Whether its Satan's injection or God's protection, remember that the Lord is standing with you in the struggle and if our hearts are honestly longing to follow Him, He will safely bring us home.

Disobedience Meets a Miracle of Grace

"Then Moses raised his hand and struck the rock twice with the staff, and water gushed out..." Numbers 20:11a

How do you respond in times of frustration? Whether you are annoyed at yourself or others, how do you handle the irritation that often, if left unchecked, pretty quickly becomes anger? We can become exasperated with things, situations and people. Sometimes our fuse can be pretty short. 

Moses once again becomes the target of attack in the wilderness. His leadership is questioned and the people blame him for everything they lack. The Israelites need was real but their accusations reveal a deficit of trust. Despite all they had seen God do, every way in which He provided in the past, in the face of fresh discontent they rebel again. This new generation is walking in the same unbelief as the one that came before. Nothing has apparently changed. Have they not learned anything in these 40 years?

With criticism surrounding them, Moses and Aaron fall face down on the ground. They knew where strength could be found. God was their immediate go-to. They were confident they would find refuge and direction in the Lord's presence. In response, the Divine command was clearly given, but somewhere along the road of administration failure occurred. 

God's instruction was to assemble the people, take the staff and speak to the rock. The rock would pour out water, enough to satisfy the people and their livestock. Instead of simply speaking to the rock, Moses struck it, not once, but twice. His actions were in direct disobedience to God's Word. It wasn't so much failure to believe God would provide, but failure to believe simple obedience to God was best. 

We don't know all that motivated his misbehaviour, but aware of our own personal rejection of God's word we can make a few guesses. We do know that he took credit for the miracle, so no doubt pride played a part. He thought he had to help God accomplish His will. Regardless of the reasoning it was wrong. Any justification of actions that walk opposite of God's command always are. Faith is the only correct response to God's word.

Yet, in an incredible miracle of grace, water gushed from the rock. Our sin will never rescind the love and faithfulness of God. When we are faithless, He remains faithful (2 Timothy 2:13). When we fail to believe and obey, still His love gushes out to meet us and pours over and into our lives calling us back to repentance. Even times we do obey, results are never because of our actions, but always because of God's provision and enablement. Yes, Moses faced consequences for his actions, but God didn't abandon him.

As we recall moments of "striking" instead of "speaking", we must learn that there is no possible way to do what is right in wrong ways. We deceive ourselves if we think it is possible. Any loss of self-control has serious ramifications. God will not be mocked. Every small detail with precise attention to His word is required. Moses' attitude and actions did not portray or reflect the character of God. The Lord dealt with Moses, still with love and compassion He met His children's thirst. 

May we humbly take this lesson to heart and live to glorify our Holy God by every step of obedience.

Immediate Intercession

"But Moses and Aaron fell face down on the ground, 'O God,' they pleaded'..." Numbers 16:22a

What's your initial reaction when you know discipline is about to be inflicted on people who genuinely deserve it? Are you secretly rejoicing inside to know they aren't escaping punishment? How do you feel for the one committing the crime? Do you lean towards judgement or mercy? There are definitely consequences for sin, but how does your heart immediately respond when you hear that chastening is about to be administered?

The descendants of Kohath were complaining against Moses and a spiritual showdown was ensuing. Korah and his followers were lashing out in defiance, and God, stepping in to vindicate both Moses and Aaron, was about to unleash His wrath and instantly destroy all the people.

We know too well that evil is very present in our world. It not only surrounds us but lives within us. Yet, we can become so callus to those walking in blatant disobedience around us that our hardened hearts take pleasure when they suffer.

I'll never forget a text I received during the middle of the Covid pandemic shut-down. It was a stressful, frightening, unknown time for many. With isolation restrictions ushered by government officials we were living in a time of great uncertainty. Huddled in homes with media reporting unprecedented numbers of hospitalizations, panic was rising throughout the world. As death totals continued to climb, globally people were questioning decisions being made by leaders. Opposition to those making mandates was evident. Resentment. Resistance. Refusal.

I opened my phone one day to find this message from a friend: "You might enjoy the 'prayer' for ______ (insert the name of your Province or Country leader): 'Let his days be few and let another take his office.' Psalm 109:8". I still feel the wave of heartache I experienced at that moment. I'm not saying I agreed with every decision being made by those in places of authority, but for a Christ-following friend to even share this in jest deeply hurt my heart. Where was compassion? Where was mercy? Where was prayer?

Moses and Aaron responded instantly by falling face down on the ground before the Lord. They pleaded with God not to put all the people to death in His anger. Even when they had been the target of the attack, they interceded for those who had rallied with their accusers. Without hesitation their reaction was to fall down in prayer before God and intercede for their persecutors. 

Father, soften our hearts. Remove our hunger for retribution. May we find no joy seeing enemies suffer. Your Word is so very clear concerning our response to those in places of rule over us. We are not to speak against the Lord's anointed, the ones whom You have divinely chosen and are using for Your purposes even if we don't understand Your plan. Guide our first impulse to be genuine care and intermediate prayer. In humility Lord, I ask that You will remind us of Your sovereignty and may our attitudes and actions reflect You to a world that desperately needs to see, know, meet, surrender and live for You and Your glory alone. Amen.

The God-Quotient

"Your road led through the sea, Your pathway through the mighty waters - a pathway no one knew was there!" Psalm 77:19

How do you go about making a decision? With any task before me I set out to list the options. I weigh the pros and cons and see which choice is best. But there is a problem with that method if we've neglected to consider God in our equation. We only see with human eyes the possibilities ahead. Our thoughts are not His thoughts. Although we can think we've exhausted every possible way a scenario may play out, we can't forget to add in the God-quotient. 

You see, too often our conclusions are based on facts and figures. I recall three years ago trying to make a medical decision. The doctor had presented me with three alternatives. I honestly didn't want to pursue any of them, but I set out to find as much information as I could regarding each one. Google and girlfriends were my sources. I then presented all my research to the Lord and asked Him to direct me to His choice. I had been given three months to determine my response. With a week now before my answer was needed, I was still at a loss, yet I firmly believed God would guide and I was determined to keep trusting, expecting Him to provide.

Within that week the Lord did speak very clearly through His Word, but it wasn't with option 1, 2 or 3. God had a different plan. The clarity with which He spoke direction, and then confirmed His word, gave me confidence to proceed, although I was anxious about how my doctor would react. Why? Why did I not believe that God had gone ahead of His divine decision and prepared the way? What wasted worry. My doctor not only accepted my reply without hesitation, but commended the idea!

We have a tendency to forget the pathway through mighty waters, the pathway no one knows is there...but God. Even those of us who call ourselves Christ-followers too often don't remember to consider all that the Lord can do. We run out of ways, and exhaust all possibilities, but God, as Creator, can design ways completely unknown to us. We see a circumstance, that, if not remedied according to the alternatives we calculate, is beyond hope. To us situations become unsolvable and unresolvable, but not to God.

What "sea" are you facing? Has every avenue been explored? Have you done everything you can and still it seems uncrossable and impassable? The unimaginable becomes an opportunity when surrendered to the Lord. God loves to redefine our impossible. He takes delight in defying what we view as illogical and irrational. 

I love the testimony of Abraham in Romans 4:18. "In hope he believed against hope." I want that to be the testimony of my life. Like Asaph recounting the miraculous in this Psalm, and Abraham of old, I want to remain strong in faith, giving glory to God, absolutely convinced that He is able to make a way where there seems to be no way. If not a pathway through the sea, His solutions are endless. Will you trust Him?

Tenacious Trust

"But Caleb tried to quiet the people as they stood before Moses. 'Let's go at once to take the land,' he said. 'We can certainly conquer it.'" Numbers 13:30

Do you know a "Caleb"? Is there someone in your life who is annoyingly hopeful? I hesitate to ask that, as your answer might have my name on it. I'm not a "Pollyanna", nor do I wear rose-coloured glasses, but I was raised in a home where we focused on the positive. Which are you? Are you a half-empty or half-filled person? How do you view life? Do you respond and rebound like a "Tigger", filled with excitement and enthusiasm, always expecting God to show up in some miraculous way, or are you more an "Eeyore" with doom and gloom behind every disappointment? 

Just recently while speaking with a friend, very aware and cautious of my own unshakable hope, I asked her if my reply to continue trusting God through a difficult journey she had shared with me was hurtful to her. I love her so dearly and I really wasn't trying to be flippant towards the unexpected pain she was experiencing. All she had shared seemed beyond comprehensible, but I also believed that grief and hope could walk together at the same time. I wasn't denying the circumstance she was presently living. My initial reaction was one of deep sorrow and tears, but I knew, that should God choose, He could turn the situation around at any moment. I just feared my spoken hope might have been an added burden to her wounded heart.

Her gracious reply assured me that my hope was contagious and that my words of encouragement and ongoing prayers were strengthening her own walk of hope. She actually said it was one of the reasons she reached out to me. She needed someone to breathe a fresh reminder into her soul of all that God could still yet do. Her story wasn't over.

In Numbers 14:24 God Himself describes Caleb has having "a different attitude than the others". When the majority of the other spies entering the land of Canaan saw impossibilities, Caleb, along with Joshua, saw God. 

It's not easy standing on the minority side of faith with skeptics surrounding. It's not that Caleb and Joshua had tunnel vision. They saw the power and size of the people in the land and the large, fortified towns, but they never forgot God who had already declared multiple times that regardless of the opposition ahead, He was giving them the land. Giving them the land! This exploration excursion wasn't to discover whether a conquest was possible, but to give aid in planning out the mission. Instead, all the negatives the spies saw before them incited within them a God-forgetfulness.

Repeatedly throughout Scripture we are reminded to walk by faith and not by sight. Despite my bent to be hopeful, I hate that I can so often be a sight-walking-follower, hesitant and fearful to move forward when everything is pointing towards risk and the way is unclear. When circumstances appear disappointing or threatening, it takes a tenacious trust to walk in the truth that God is good, loving, faithful to His word, and to remain confident He will honour those who keep believing.

Maybe your "Canaan" doesn't look much like a "land of promise" today. Hopeless. Impossible. Finished. I'm praying, like Caleb and Joshua, you will remember that God is with you and you will stand, in faith, on the word He has already given.

Timing is Everything!

"Next came the Kohathite division of the Levites, carrying the sacred objects from the tabernacle. Before they arrived at the next camp, the Tabernacle would already be set up at its new location." Numbers 9:21

How do you feel about your current placement in life? Are you happy with where the Lord has you or are you jockeying position wishing you were further ahead? Maybe you have no desire to be first in line, but you definitely didn't think you'd be this far back, not after all this time. Doesn't the Lord see all that you're doing? Shouldn't He be calling you further faster? Where's the advancement you thought would have happened by now? You're still striving with all your effort, being bumped and bruised, suffering set-back after set-back. 

As Moses and the Israelites set out from the wilderness of Sinai and begin to travel, the Kohathite division wasn't first, second or even third. Before them marched the tribes of Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, other Levite divisions, Reuben, Simeon and Gad. This actually represents over 337,850 men twenty years old or older who had been registered (see Numbers 1:20-46), not including the number of Levites who were responsible for the Tabernacle.

Maybe you read that and sigh. Yes, that's me. I'm back and buried deep in line. Forgotten. Unseen. Marching along unnoticed. Weary. Exhausted. No sign of breakthrough. Giving your all and doing your best but feeling surrounded and discouraged.

The Kohathite's had been assigned to carry the sacred objects from the tabernacle. I'm guessing it was only a few days prior that they were feeling pretty pleased with their role. After all, they weren't the Gershonite's in general service or the Merarite's only carrying loads. The Kohathite's duties related to the most sacred items. They had been chosen to handle the most valuable. Why had God set them so far back when they held what was most precious?

"Before they arrived at the next camp, the Tabernacle would already be set up at its new location." That's why. God was looking after them. By the time their troops reached their destination, the Levites who had gone before them would have everything prepared to receive the articles the Kohathite's were transporting. Their placement in line was so crucial and intentional. If they were further ahead nothing would be prepared for their arrival. They'd be left standing around carrying a burden that shouldn't be theirs. It was God's care for them, yet they could miss seeing it as they served behind thousands who seemed to be proceeding ahead of them. Timing is everything!

It's not easy being a Kohathite when you long to be up front with Judah. Even with all your efforts back in line, results seem minimal. Confused, you wonder what you're doing and why you should continue. You're walking one step forward and four back. You can't see what God is preparing for you up ahead. It's not you! God is still setting up the way for you to share and others receive all He has entrusted you to carry.

Don't lose heart! Don't compare yourself with those God has called into service around you. It's a constant battle not to allow the bait of Satan to lure our minds to thoughts that lead to insecurity and feelings of failure and worthlessness.

The Lord has created us uniquely. He has a role that only you can fill. You are fearfully and wonderfully made. Walk securely in the position God has called you to and trust Him. Whatever your role, it is within His reach and He is using you for His glory!

Dedication Gifts

"The leaders also presented dedication gifts for the altar at the time it was anointed. They each placed their gifts before the altar." Numbers 7:10

There are certain passages of scripture we can be tempted to skip over quickly. I think Numbers 7 presents the perfect example of text that we might think we have ability to write better. It could be condensed, making the same point in a more succinct way. Instead, with twelve consecutive passages, we see identical offerings given again and again. Do you start to skim, assuming the similarity or do you continue to read with the same fresh curiosity as if discovering it for the first time?

All scripture is God-breathed. Every word has been recorded with intention. Repetition is for emphasis. If God thought it valuable to record the items the leaders presented as an offering multiple times there must be a reason. God doesn't waste His words. Although on the verge of monotonous to us, it is meaningful to Him.

This text highlights that God treasures each individual and the offering we bring to Him in obedience. God delighted in each observance of His word. Not only did each gift matter, but each giver was important to Him. He mentions each one by name. Although this presentation of dedication gifts could have been expressed in a few sentences, instead the Lord elaborated on every detail. He drew attention to individual devotion. In the dutiful repetition there is divine recognition.

God deeply cares for us and the gifts we dedicate to Him. What is God asking us to place before His altar? Too often I bring what is easy, but God desires me to bring what is needed. Needed in order to draw me closer to Him. Needed so I can be fully His. What is He impressing on my heart to place before His presence? What necessary is He waiting to see surrendered so that He can do further work in me? I encourage you to make time to ponder these questions personally.

A dedication gift is evidence of complete and wholehearted loyalty and faithfulness. The leaders were committing themselves to the Lord. In surrender, I too long to lay my all on the altar. More than the physical items that were part of the Israelites ceremonies of sacrifice, now God requires lives yielded for His use. The best treasure we can present as a dedication gift is ourselves. So, I join with the writer of a well-known chorus and pray, "Me, my gift is me. All I am and all I'll ever be. I'm not ashamed for the world to see, that it's me, my gift is me."

We are the offering the Lord longs to see as the dedication gift before His altar today. Won't you come and give yourself completely to Him for His use forever.

"My Gift is Me", words and music by Kathie Hill, copyright 1988, Birdwing Music

"Almost"

"But as for me, I almost lost my footing. My feet were slipping, and I was almost gone." Psalm 73:2

Is your faith fighting in a place of "almost"? Struggling to go on, the path before you has ushered in some rough terrain. Navigating the road before you has become challenging. You are uncertain and the way is unknown. Facing doubts, escalating emotions and sleepless nights you have come very close to surrendering to "lost" and "gone", but for now at least, you're still holding on. Your grip is weak, but it's there.

The word "almost" can be a word of hope and victory. The battle "almost" took you down, but it didn't. You haven't lost. You maybe came frighteningly close. You just about gave up. You nearly drifted away, but you didn't. You remained. You held on. You did what was needed. You sought help. You fought for footing, and although slipping you were able to stand again. 

Psalm 73 is such an encouragement for anyone battling an "almost". The writer, Asaph, is filled with questions. As he watches those around him prospering, he is disturbed by what appears to be a great injustice. Disillusionment and bitterness are directing his thoughts, responses and feelings. The wicked seem to be rewarded while the godly are waiting, not seeing their blessings. Specifically and personally, where are his blessings?

There are a couple of things we must come to understand. One, our story isn't over yet. The second, justice will be paid.

Whatever has currently placed your faith on shaky ground, it's a detour, not a dead end. The enemy may be tripping you up at your greatest point of weakness but unless you allow him, he can't make you fall or keep you down. Asaph knew what to do. He entered the sanctuary of God. He brought his concerns and heartaches to the Lord. Coming into God's presence brought understanding.

The Psalmist spoke truth to himself even while stumbling. He reminded himself: "Yet I still belong to You; You hold my right hand. You guide me with Your counsel, leading me to a glorious destiny. Whom have I in heaven but You? I desire You more than anything on earth. My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; He is mine forever." (Psalm 73:23-26)

What incredible words of power and faith! Resting in God's presence and looking for His perspective, Asaph expected the Lord to guide. Although he was treading tentatively in weakness he wasn't standing still. He was falling forward into the strength of the Lord.

Today, if this is you, rejoice in your "almost". God's hand is on you. He will not let you go. You are "almost" home again and your Father is not finished with you yet.

Family Banners

"Each clan and family set up camp and marched under their banners exactly as the LORD had instructed them." Numbers 2:34b

Do you remember having to design a family coat of arms in school? Maybe I'm dating myself. I don't know if students still have this activity as part of their lessons. This was a visual representation of familial values. The symbols chosen highlighted the things that were most important to your family. It helped define your identity. Someone looking at it would know immediately what was held in top priority as each item reflected the core character and conduct of your heritage. 

Just like golden arches identify a specific chain of restaurants, each object on the banners was a marker that helped with quick and easy association. Similar to other trademarks and logos we see today that allow us to instantly connect our minds to precise brands, they were customized and recognized by others. Slogans can also provide a method of grouping similar items. Virtually everyone becomes familiar with a catchy phrase or advertising jingle that immediately links our thoughts to a product, place or service.

Usually, some unique artistry appeared on the front of these standards or shields. All those carrying the same crests were from the same clan. They were a symbol of unity. Not only were they identification, they provided protection. I love this connection to protection within the family.

As we read about the LORD's instructions through Moses and Aaron to the Israelites, we repeatedly see how the tribal divisions were to camp under their family banners. These distinguishable markers bore emblems that united particular tribal divisions. It seems no one knows with certainty what colours and figures they depicted but they were peculiar to their tribe and individual to each of the four Israelite troops that positioned themselves around the Tabernacle.

If you were creating a family banner today, what would you include? What images or words would give testimony to what your tribe treasures? What picture would best personify the core of your heart?

In Exodus 17:15 we read that God's name is Yahweh-Nissi, The Lord is my Banner. As believers, He is the One under whom we unite. We are rescued by Him and identified in Him. For those who abide in His presence, beneath His banner, He provides protection. When others see us may they know immediately whose banner we live under and may we be faithful ambassadors as Christians who carry Christ's name.

A Father's Prayers

"'Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift each of you like wheat. But I have pleaded in prayer for you, Simon, that your faith should not fail. So when you have repented and turned to Me again, strengthen your brothers." Luke 22:31-32

Satan is a sifter. He didn't stop with Simon. He wants to break us down and shake us apart so violently through hardships, doubts, disappointments and loss that our faith is destroyed. Don't imagine that any difficulty is coincidence. The struggles that we face are testing our faith. On our own, our adversary will win, but we have an Advocate who sees us, calls us by name and is interceding to strengthens us.

These verses, though challenging to read as we comprehend the battles we too will face daily, provide comfort in knowing that our Saviour pleads in prayer for us. Paul tells us in Romans 8:34 that Jesus sits at the right hand of the Father interceding for all the saints. As believers, we are part of that "all".

That truth really needs a pause. A Selah moment. Jesus prays for me. Jesus prays for you. The Son of God knows us by name, is very aware of every detail of our lives, and presents us before His Father with perfect pleas on our behalf, knowing exactly what we need. While the enemy, in malice, tattles on us to God day and night (Revelation 12:10; Zechariah 3:1), Jesus empathizes with our weaknesses and intercedes for us.

What does Jesus pray? He prays for strong faith. Remaining faith. He prays that in faith we will resist temptation. Is it any wonder that when Christ was teaching His disciples to pray He included this phrase, "lead us not into temptation". He knows at any moment we face multiple opportunities to make decisions that walk in direct opposition to God's word. It is only because of the Lord's continual intercession for us that we don't turn away. His ongoing prayers are essential for our eternal salvation this very day and all our days to come.

Like Simon, we won't always get it right. How do I know he failed? "So when you have repented and turned to Me again." Even with Christ praying for us, we fall. Yet, after our confession Jesus gives us a commission. "Strengthen your brothers."

Weakness often speaks louder than perfection. We need to share our stories to help others learn from choices we've made. In vulnerability, reveal the subtleties of Satan that lured you away. What was the turning point that led you astray? What brought you back? You have returned stronger from lessons learned. Don't waste your wandering.

Simon wasn't the first disciple who faltered in his faith and he won't be the last. Let's encourage one another with what God has taught us in faith failures and remember, your Heavenly Father is praying for you.

Climbing Trees

"...may all who search for You be filled with joy and gladness in You..." Psalm 70:4

How often do you misplace things? My most recent loss was a wool headband that I use almost daily for walking outside in the winter. Because of its constant use, it made absolutely no sense that it could go missing. I searched for that little article of clothing everywhere. I'm usually pretty good with "a place for everything and everything in its place", so the disappearance was strange. I finally assumed I had left it somewhere and I'd have to purchase a new one.

Imagine my surprise the other day when I went to wrap a gift for a family member and there it was in a bag in the closet! I'm guessing, having walked to the store, I was wearing it, but the weather warming before my return, I took it off, tossed it in the bag along with my purchases and forgot about it. I was delighted to find it. The lost located.

I'll admit, I didn't originally search for it very long. Our seeking is proportionate to the value we place on the item we desire. The greater the worth, the more intense the search.

How dedicated are we to search for the Lord? To what lengths will we go to understand a new truth in His word? Do we give up too easy? How desperate are we to find Jesus?

I've read about individuals who have actually "camped out" for days before tickets become available to a concert or sporting event. They want to be first in line for the best seats. Boxing Day and Black Friday sales can have customers lined up for hours before a store opens. Do I chase after Jesus with the same tenacity? What am I willing to do to in my pursuit of Christ? Will I wait in silence, however long it takes, for Him to speak to me? Will I set the alarm earlier so that I can quietly sit in His presence before household activity begins? Would I turn off the television, choosing instead to spend time in His Word? Do I really even want Him? What choices give any indication that I do?

My mind drifts to a man mentioned in Scripture. Being short in stature, he didn't allow his physical limitations to stand in the way of seeing the Saviour. Noticing a sycamore-fig tree nearby, without hesitation Zacchaeus climbed the tree to get a glimpse of Jesus. His efforts were rewarded as the Lord looked up, called him down and invited Himself over for a visit. Zacchaeus literally went "out on a limb" in his effort to see Christ. 

Lord, increase my longing for You. Just as the crowds threatened Zacchaeus' view, many things will try to crowd You out of my day. Help me want to want You. Father, give me determination and drive to climb whatever tree is necessary in order to see You. In writing about this encounter in Scripture, Luke shares that in response to Christ looking up and talking to him, Zacchaeus quickly came down and took Jesus to his house in great excitement and joy! In response to our seeking, Jesus sees and speaks to us and we are filled with joy and gladness in Him. 

What tree will you climb today in your search to know Him more?

Reaching Jerusalem

"...Jesus went on toward Jerusalem..." Luke 19:28

A little phrase with big impact. Reading through the book of Luke, there are over half a dozen such sentences. The first one is found in Luke 9, as we read "Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem." Knowing exactly where He was going and what would meet Him there, He still went with determination and purpose to fulfill His Father's plan. Those of us who know the gospel story can testify that Jesus made it to His destination. He didn't just "set out" He "went on", eventually arriving. Jerusalem meant persecution and death, yet He never strayed from the path His Father set before Him.

I reflect back over my life and wonder how many times I have embarked on a new divine calling only to find myself stopping at the first roadblock. The barrier may be fear, doubt, insecurity, you name the detour, but suddenly the assurance I knew at the start of the journey has lessened the further I've travelled and I'm questioning whether I even heard God's voice at all. I imagined saying 'yes' would mean the walk would be easier. I was wrong.

I start out with passion and excitement, then the hardships that accompany my "Jerusalem" start to stifle my enthusiasm. This isn't going as I hoped. It's hard. I'm discouraged. I thought there would be more encouragement and acceptance from others. No road stands of refreshment lining the curbs. Where are the cheerleaders rallying with me in support? I feel alone as I navigate oncoming traffic, trucks passing me by and reaching their goal quicker to the sound of thunderous applause. Why isn't that me? This is not what I anticipated! Why is my road so hard?

Arriving in "Jerusalem" means going the distance. It's going to take persistence. A "Jerusalem road" always insists upon sacrifice. It means braving the struggles that will inevitably appear along the way. It requires committing our heart to the destination and not giving up. What if Christ had turned around, refusing Jerusalem? What if He resisted His Father's will? Consider the outcome if Jesus rejected the following of His calling. He walked that path to be crucified and bring us salvation.

Is God calling you to pack your bags and begin a trek in response to His word? The way ahead may look long. New endeavors rarely are accomplished with any great speed. Roads of rejection are most likely going to threaten your resolve and confidence. You will need strength and single-mindedness not to stray. 

Have you noticed what Scripture titles Christ's arrival to Jerusalem? It's described as His triumphant entry. It was victorious! Riding on a donkey, the conquering King fulfilled His Father's plan. May our commitment to the Jerusalems before us be travelled in the strength of our Saviour, giving testimony to the world that Christ is living and reigning in triumph in us.

No Spaces or Full Stops!

"...So don't you think God will surely give justice to His chosen people who cry out to Him day and night? Will He keep putting them off?" Luke 18:7b

There is so much written on prayer that I hesitate to write yet another reflection on the topic again today. But with all the books, messages, podcasts, home décor signs, songs and scriptures calling us to pray why do we devote so little time on our knees?

Do we pray because God commands us to, or is it from an inner compelling that forces us before His throne of grace? Do we casually lift requests like grocery lists letting God know what we and others need? Do we mention names like a classroom roll call identifying those with both physical and spiritual concerns? Is there any passion at all in our prayers? 

Current prayer requests shared with me seem not only innumerable, but humanly impossible. I look over the emails and messages I've received and each one requires a touch from God. Many are time sensitive. Health concerns. Will the dad be well enough to attend his son's wedding? Will he be here? Marriages dissolving. The wife weary and the husband still battling temptations after years of addiction. Daily physical provisions. Will she be able to pay the bills this month? Living accommodations uncertain and stressful. How long will we have to carry two mortgages? Insecurities overwhelming. What will it take for her to rest in the knowledge of Your unfailing love? Eyes that need to be opened. When will he see what he's doing? Hearts that need to turn to the Lord. How long Lord until she responds to You? 

Just a prayer sampler. My journal pages are full. My heart is heavy. Tired moms. Frustrated fathers. Exhausting children. Wearisome relatives. And we haven't even stepped beyond the front door. Add in global news, world leaders, natural disasters and we can feel buried under the burden of difficulties leading to hopelessness, our prayers appearing futile. And it's unending. Even as I've been writing this a friend, feeling helpless as her daughter in another country sits at Emergency waiting to see a doctor because of unrelenting pain, sent me a prayer S.O.S.

But, what if our prayers really were an S.O.S? Did you know that this Morse code signal was never meant to be expressed as three individual letters? It was a continuous string of three dots, three dashes, three dots with no spaces or full stops. Maybe that's one of the vital problems with our prayer life. We have far too many spaces and full stops. The urgency that sent out the distress call of an S.O.S. doesn't fill our prayers. We become casualties of war not because we aren't wielding the right weapon, but there is no earnestness in our petitions and we give up too soon.

Are our prayers mediocre? We say we want to see God move, but a sentence or two doesn't indicate much desire. Is there an imbalance between the miracles I long to see and the cries to God that proceed them? God won't put off those who persevere. May the weight of the need keep us waiting on our knees crying out to Him, filling the Lord's presence with continuous cries of faith day and night. No spaces or full stops!

God's Seating Plan

"Instead, take the lowest place at the foot of the table. Then when your host sees you, he will come and say, 'Friend, we have a better place for you!' Then you will be honoured in front of all the other guests. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted." Luke 14:10-11

After scanning the seating arrangement for our names, my husband came to me while I visited with other guests at the wedding reception. It had been such a beautiful, God-centered ceremony and it was delightful now to mingle with friends and share in the joy of this special day. The young man who just committed covenant love to his sweet bride was our son's best childhood buddy. He was extended family to us, although no actual biological relation. Joining the conversation now, my husband mentioned that he couldn't find our names on the guest list. No worries. I assumed he just glanced over the chart too quickly. 

Reading the names around the guest tables I soon discovered he was right. Our names weren't there. Seeing the mother of the groom, my dearest friend passing by, I recall reaching out and saying, "We can't find our names on the seating chart." She replied, with a twinkle in her eye, "They are there. Go look again."

Something in her manner and the tone of her voice suggested there was something special about where we were seated. Returning to the chart, I now glanced at the only table I hadn't really scrutinized. It was the family table. As I looked down the list of names my breath caught in my throat. There we were. Our names plain as day. No mistake. Seated with the groom's family at the very front.

I will never forget that moment or the feelings that filled my heart. Chosen. Cherished. Included. It was such an unexpected gesture of love that it still overwhelms me to this day. Although not blood relatives, we had been adopted in as part of their family and treated as part of their tribe. The feeling of acceptance that flooded over me was undeniable. We were invited to a table of love and undeserved grace. It remains one of the most precious gifts I have ever received.

Jesus, teaching on humility, shares a similar story. It's true that placement often indicates an order of prestige. However, those who self-promote can often find themselves in danger of facing shame. Pride can make us strive for position, but God calls us to consider others before ourselves and wait for Him to exalt us. God is not impressed by status. Christ exemplified true humility. It has been said, "Go as low as e're you will, the Highest has been lower still." 

God doesn't value a list of endorsements from well-known celebrities. Your placement at His table is radically different than the world's seating plan. He honours the humble. As we serve and share in quiet ways behind the scenes God is taking notice. Some of the greatest kingdom work is birthed in humble hearts in secret places. The Lord is watching. Eternity's seating plan might really surprise you. 

The Worry War

"Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? And if worry can't accomplish a little thing like that, what's the use of worrying over bigger things?...These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers all over the world, but your Father already knows your needs." Luke 12:25-26, 30

How often do you live like an unbeliever? What dominates your thoughts these days? In a conversation with friends, we were sharing together how our minds respond at that initial moment when we come face-to-face with the slightest hint of any concern. Morphing immediately into a Goliath, "it" is now directing every aspect of our lives. Even using all our effort, it's impossible to turn our attention to accomplish any needed task as we are living in a frantic state. I can't deny some real concerns were voiced, but often our responses aren't rational. We get caught up in emotions, and we spiral down paths that escalate, assume and speculate until we have convinced ourselves of every worst-case scenario possible. It's very rare we anticipate less. Our natural bent seems to be worry, fear and panic.

Jesus, teaching His disciples warns about worry. He identifies and associates those who get caught up with the affairs of life as unbelievers, who basically don't know better. Christ followers can become just like people all over the world who allow troubles to control thoughts and actions. Worry may be one of the most common experiences among those who call themselves Christians. It seems to be a regular part of all of our lives. It dictates behaviour and has greater influence than we desire.

Worry is not only wearisome, but physically we know that it is the root cause of many health issues. The enemy uses it as a weapon to unravel our belief and get us so focused on "what ifs" that we forget "Who is"! Fighting so hard to live in the safe zone, we step away from the faith zone. How we constantly need to remind ourselves that God is in control and that absolutely nothing that touches our lives goes unseen.

As I think of some recent prayer requests shared with me, it appears the devil is working overtime in the lives of believers. Marriages are struggling. Health concerns are many. Family relationships are severing. Employment is tentative. Biblical truth is being compromised. Exhausted, many are giving in to the climate of the culture just to avoid an explosion from another land mine. 

Day to day pressures constantly invite us to incessantly worry about tomorrow. We must refuse the invitation. Persistent worry is not a characteristic of a believer. Our hearts need to be effectually and functionally coming under the reign of God's sovereign rule. It is the only way we will experience His rest. Instead of worry distracting you, pray it will direct you to the Lord and His promises and then rest knowing your Father already knows your needs.

"So don't be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom." Luke 12:32

The Blessedness of the Unoffended

"...God blesses those who do not fall away because of Me." Luke 7:23

If you grew up using the King James Version of the Bible you may recall the verse above as, "And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in Me." Let's face it. We can be pretty easily offended. It doesn't take much to upset some people. Feelings get hurt. Resentment surfaces. Relationships sever. 

What's intriguing to me, is that this scripture implies the possibility of "falling away" or being offended because of something Christ has done. He's the root cause of the offence. That concept sounds so strange. A follower of Christ leaving the faith because of Jesus? How could it happen? What could He do that would cause a believer to be so offended that one abandons the Lord? Isn't God all grace and love?

Sadly, I've heard many stories of those who once passionately walked with the Lord day by day, serving Him faithfully until the moment when prayers weren't answered as they had hoped. God didn't respond the way they prayed He would. The job was given to another. The healing didn't come. The bills couldn't be paid. The child hasn't been home in years. The marriage dissolved. Prolonged singleness. Early widowhood. Pain, loss, disillusionment and heartache grew into confusion, frustration and anger. Feeling like God had wronged them, unforgiveness towards Him begins to take hold of their heart. Participation in activities with other believers wanes. Church attendance becomes infrequent. Daily time with the Lord in His word disappears. A Bible sits untouched collecting dust on the shelf. It's agonizing to watch a soul drift away. They have been wounded by a conclusion they have made about God.

All our prayers will not be answered according to our plan. God's will and way can be vastly different from our longed-for direction and desires. The temptation to be offended may surely arise, but we need to guard our response. Sometimes it's God's rebuke and discipline that cause us to resist. It's a needed word that must be met with a receptive heart. As Jesus speaks these words in Luke to His disciples He is saying, you are blessed when you don't doubt, but accept what I'm doing, especially when My outcome doesn't meet your expectations. As you keep looking to God through painful trials, not taking offence at what He knows is best for you, you are blessed. 

Where is God apparently not answering in accordance with your hopes right now? Can you trust Him? Will you resolve to keep following regardless of the outcome? Will you have faith that He has a plan? Will you surrender yourself to what He is doing even though it seems so utterly hard to understand? When you do, you will be blessed.

The Psalmist writes in Psalm 65, "...for You answer our prayers...You faithfully answer our prayers with awesome deeds, O God our Saviour..." (vs 2a, 5a). Help me accept Your answers Lord. Oh the blessedness of the unoffended.

Fractured Foundations

"It is like a person building a home who digs deep and lays the foundation on solid rock. When the floodwaters rise and break against that house, it stands firm because it is well built." Luke 6:48

I am a huge fan of home renovation shows. Although we don't subscribe to any television providers (which in all honesty is probably a good thing), if I happen to be available to watch the "Property Brothers", I'm eager to see the transformation of the homes they redesign. One thing is certain. Without a doubt, at some point in the hour, unforeseen issues will arise hidden behind drywall or under flooring. Quite often the biggest concern is the foundation. The home has the appearance of being solid, but in truth it's on shaky ground. It's shocking to see the number of homes that have absolutely no solid support.

We can't see foundations. They are buried deep. We assume they are structurally sound. We can foolishly believe that absolutely nothing will cause a collapse, but foundations need to be maintained. Cracks can't be ignored. Leaks must be sealed. Without regular upkeep even cement can start to crumble. 

When my son and his wife moved into their first home everything looked perfect, until the first rainfall. An early morning phone call alerted us to flooding. It's impossible to think the previous homeowners didn't know about this issue. We're not talking a minor trickle. What was concealed was now revealed and what a mess! You just can't keep patching over a problem.

The thing is, repairs can be costly. We want to dismiss small evidences that work needs to be done. We know it's going to hit our pocketbooks hard. Yet, without the effort, it won't be long before a small concern becomes a major headache. It's going to take finances, time, sacrifices, energy and resolve.

We know this to be true for the homeowner, but what about our lives? What about our marriages and our families? What are we doing to ensure the winds of adversity won't demolish our footings with one, perfect storm? Don't think it couldn't happen. Too many are deceived by a false sense of security. I know many individuals and couples who never, not in their wildest dreams, envisioned walking away from one another or from the Lord, and yet devastatingly weaknesses weren't revealed until walls were already falling. Faith fractured from faulty foundations.

We must be continually investing in "home improvement". We can't overlook "fixer-uppers". It might take more than a DIY. We may need to reach out to those who can listen, pray, and give biblical counsel. It is unwise to pretend that a little paint will cover the problem without suffering lasting damage. It needs digging up, not covering over. Even for those currently sitting in the rubble, it doesn't have to be the end. God is the Master Builder. He holds the blueprints. Will you allow Him to do the foundational work needed to secure your future? In the hands of the Lord, your "house" still has many good years remaining. I can't wait to see what He does with the place!

"The godly will rejoice in the LORD and find shelter in Him. And those who do what is right will praise Him." Psalm 64:10

Cling-ons

"I cling to You; Your strong right hand holds me securely." Psalm 63:8

Seeing her name appear I quickly grabbed my cell phone. It had been quite a while since I had spoken with this precious friend and I couldn't wait to hear her voice. With excitement and anticipation, I answered "Hello!" I instantly knew this wasn't just a casual call. Her voice betrayed her initial efforts to camouflage crisis. My inquiry of her well-being was met with tears. She proceeded to share news my mind couldn't begin to fathom. It seemed impossible. It couldn't be true.

What do we do when life suddenly changes, ushering in circumstances that turn our world upside down? We're in the middle of a mess beyond our comprehension, blindsided and confused. Winds of adversity are threatening to tear us away with hurricane force. In panic we reach out to grab hold of so many fruitless and futile things flying by us in our whirlwind. The Psalmist David knew there was one need. With everything in his being he would cling to the Lord. God is the only stable force in our storm.

What does it mean to cling to the Lord? The word "cling" speaks of adhering closely. It signifies holding tight by grasping or embracing. The idea of remaining attached as well as resisting any effort that comes against us is implied. This is a closeness that resolutely refuses to let go. 

Depending on your age, you may recall "Klingons" from the Star Trek series. They were a fictional species characterized by ruthlessness. We may be wise to take a lesson from these sci-fi guys. As "Cling-ons" we require the same relentless pursuit of God, recognizing that His grip of grace also holds us securely.

It makes me think of Jacob when he wrestled with the Lord in Genesis 32. Exhausted and weary he voiced, "I will not let You go unless You bless me." Our clinging is often directly proportional to our desperation. The greater the need the tighter the grasp. It is often pain that pushes us closer to the Lord, yet in reality we need to be holding just as tightly during seasons of ease. It shouldn't take a struggle to fix our focus back on our longing for the Lord's presence.

Do we wrap our arms around the Lord with such tenacity that absolutely nothing can create a wedge between us? I think the primary way we do this is through prayer. We pitch our tents in His throne room. We aren't leaving. Floors are worn by bended knee. Like the persistent widow we will not lose heart. Labouring fervently, we don't give up, we won't give up, we refuse to give up, we can't give up!

Like my sweet friend you may need to know God's divine touch and the awareness of His presence. Let's pray together.

Father, empty my hands of efforts to fix and my mind from formulas that fail. Tighten my grip. Weak and weary, lost and confused I need strength to cling. Let me feel Your fingers entwined with mine. Life has ushered in unexpected hurt that I don't understand and I definitely don't like. I feel afraid and alone. Powerless, I need Your help. May Your sovereignty in every situation bring comfort and Your authority fill me with peace. To You, and You alone, I will cling on.

Caretaker of the Heart

"Having carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I also have decided to write an accurate account for you, most honorable Theophilus, so you can be certain of the truth of everything you were taught." Luke 1:3-4

Who cares for your heart? Who prays for you with passion and is deeply concerned that you know the truth and are walking in step with the Lord?

The opening verses of Luke move me to tears. The text of both Luke and Acts, under the inspiration of God and the moving of His Spirit, were penned by a physician who profoundly desires to attend to one man's understanding of the gospel. Just one. Whoever Theophilus is, and commentators only speculate, he obviously was someone Luke passionately longed to encourage and see stand strong in his faith. If I was honest, I'm kind of envious of one who has a friend who would care so deeply to devote two long letters for the care of his heart.

It wasn't that factual writings of the gospel did not already exist. Luke begins this letter by referencing many others who have shared accounts using eyewitness reports. So, along with the Spirit's urging, what compelled him to take pen in hand? It was the spiritual understanding and life of one man. A man of unknown identity whose name literally means "loved by God".

And loved he was. In sharing the message of the Gospel, Luke never once mentions his own name. Although he was a travel companion of Paul's, in humility he doesn't address associations or name drop. He doesn't speak of the professional sacrifices he must have made as a doctor. He doesn't draw attention to any personal accomplishments. Luke's one aim was for one man to understand with certainty salvation in Christ.

I ask again, who cares for your heart? Are there those in your circle of friends and influences who fervently share the Word of God with you? Is there someone who is so concerned about your walk with the Lord that they go out of their way and make personal sacrifices to make certain you know and understand scripture accurately? Do you have a "Luke" in your life? Who do you trust to speak truth to you?

It doesn't stop there. To whom do you speak truth? Are you intentionally involved with a "Theophilus"? Is there someone who needs encouragement to keep believing? To hold fast to God's word and be obedient to its teaching. To keep pressing on past discouragement and doubt. To be reminded of everything they know in their heads to be true, but feelings and circumstances have them experiencing momentary God-forgetfulness. It could even be someone who outwardly displays no visible sign of spiritual struggle, but I don't know one person who wouldn't appreciate a word of reassurance and inspiration. We all need the confidence of knowing that we are "loved by God".

I urge you to be the caretaker of someone's heart. I know letter writing is old-fashioned, but ask God to bring the name of someone to mind. Then, be a "Luke", encouraging a "Theophilus" to walk in faith.