More Than Tea

"Then Judas and Silas...spoke at length to the believers, encouraging and strengthening their faith....After some time Paul said to Barnabas, 'Let's go back and visit each city where we previously preached the word of the Lord, to see how the new believers are doing.'" Acts 15:32,36

My heart resonates with Judas and Silas, Paul and Barnabas. There is nothing I enjoy more than walking alongside a Christ-follower and encouraging them in their faith. My husband sometimes jokes that all I do is host "tea visits", but quite honestly, they are sacred times of sharing and prayer. There is so much that pours from a heart while holding a warm cup in your hands. The beverage is really inconsequential. It's just the means to the end. It is my delight to sit with dear ones and hear how God is at work in their life. From young people to seniors, my greatest joy is found in being a listening ear and giver of messages of hope and encouragement.

Christ, in the great commission tells us to "go and make disciples". In my younger years I always interpreted that as "go and be a missionary." Although that is a wonderful pursuit, Jesus primarily encouraged disciple-making. We must be growing in our faith, and we desperately need those who are willing to invest intentionally and consistently in our lives. Christianity isn't for lone-rangers. 

You see, somewhere in my 30's, I noticed I was more on auto-pilot in my walk with the Lord. I was doing all the right things and saying all the right words, but I knew something was missing. There were three ladies in my life, all older than I, who I watched and envied. Their lives evidenced more than I was experiencing. God was so very real to them. I remember writing letters to each one of them, sharing what I saw and asking them what made the difference. I wanted what they had. These three ladies took the time to respond, mentor, encourage, pray and frequently follow-up, engaging with me to hear how my faith was growing. They each are a vital part of my testimony.

When I extend an invitation to tea, what I'm really saying is, "Come and tell me how things are between you and the Lord." "How are you growing and deepening your relationship with God?" "Are you in His Word?" "Are you obeying His Word?"  "Where are you struggling to follow Him?" "How can I practically help you?" Most visits conclude with me saying, "Let's pray."

This is life-on-life. Disciple-making is more than discipleship. It's coming alongside others, not once or twice, but committing to personally guide another spiritually, teaching, sharing doctrinal truth, listening, correcting, encouraging, loving and praying. It's deeply caring for the spiritual growth of others, investing in their maturity as Christ-followers, training them to be disciples who will then disciple others. It involves authentically opening my own life and vulnerably exposing successes and sufferings, mountain tops and valleys, all through which the Lord has been faithful and good.

Investing in the lives of others is costly. Be prepared to persevere. Take the initiative. Make the time. I love how David Mathis, executive editor for Desiring God, describes disciple-making, "The heart of a disciple says, 'It makes me happier for you to have my time, my energy, my attention, my initiative than for me to keep them to myself.'"

I do believe our joy increases as we extend ourselves to encourage and strengthen the spiritual growth of others. It's such a rewarding pursuit. Let's go plug our kettles in and pour some tea!

Prayer Paradox

"When they finally opened the door and saw him, they were amazed." Acts 12:16

Ah yes, the emotional paradox of believing and doubting in prayer. The church was praying for Peter's release, yet at the same time, were amazed when the answer came. The doubting in this passage is not that God can, but wondering if He will. I love the truth that nothing weak in me can weaken God. He can handle my doubt and will answer according to His purposes. No power can hold back what God desires to release.

In Acts 12:7 it says, "the chains fell off his wrists." Peter was in prison up until the night before his trial (vs6), but Peter wasn't really held there by Herod, but by God. There was a purpose for the "night before" intervention. God is teaching us to keep praying and trusting in the face of heavens silence. The fact that Peter was sleeping and had to be awakened, clearly shows Peter's dependency and peace in the Lord. But what about those praying for him? We can't quit too soon, thinking it's too late when the last hour arrives. Don't throw in the towel. God is encouraging us to pray until the last moment. Prayer trains us in trust, right to the edge, and that's where God wants us, with no other help or solution in sight so that we can exclaim with Peter, "Now I know without a doubt that the Lord...rescued me..." (vs 11 NIV).

Praying doesn't guarantee my will, but when I pray, the cause of God will go forward. It's when I get to the point of not wanting to move God to my way with my prayer, but being satisfied in reaching Him and resting in His results, that my prayer becomes a step of faith.

The church was praying earnestly for Peter. It didn't look good. From all appearances the situation appeared hopeless. The odds were against him. But God. Prayer is an act of faith when all we see are prison walls. The bars are a barricade, but they can't ban prayers from passing through. When things seem impossible, keep praying. Continue until you are released, either from the prison or from the prayer.

And don't be so shocked and surprised when God answers! The servant girl, Rhoda, recognized Peter's voice and was overjoyed, believing immediately, but the others who were gathered together praying insisted she was in error. The answer to their prayers was standing right there and they resisted belief. "When they finally opened the door and saw him, they were amazed." 

Imagine the response of the soldiers when dawn arrived. Scripture tells us, "there was no small stir among the soldiers about what had become of Peter." (12:18). I bet there wasn't!! I'm envisioning the commotion that arose to find their captive freed! I want the working of the Lord in me to create a "stir". In my own ability, any "stir" I might cause would only result in embarrassment, but when the Holy Spirit moves in me, God is manifest.

So, let's not give up too soon when praying. Believe God will answer. Expect Him to move so that your heart is stirred and He receives all the glory!

Following Directions

"This is how I spend my life; obeying Your commandments." Psalm 119:56

For the previous five days I have spent most of my waking hours at my husband's bedside following his heart surgery. Today he was discharged from the hospital and he has returned home with a file folder of instructions. Restrictions have been placed on his activity for the next twelve weeks. These are not guidelines or suggestions; these are directions from heart specialists who know what is best and he needs to adhere to these stipulations in order for optimum recovery to continue.

How are you at following instructions? When the Lord speaks to you from His word or by the prompting of His Spirit do you immediately obey or do you hesitate, question, reject or forget what He has spoken to you? We have a "heart Specialist" who is deeply concerned that the beating of our hearts walks in step with His commands.

I've spent some time thinking over direction the Lord has given to me in the past, and I have to say that I think I'm pretty good at following "exact instruction" when He speaks specifically to me. In the past I have clearly been led by the Lord to pray for certain people; to send my son to Public School and trust God; to move to a new church; to work in the kitchen and serve food at a Ladies conference; to teach Sunday School, facilitate a Ladies Bible Study and send gifts of money to certain people or ministries. I find these followings easy because God's Word to me has been so obvious that there is no room for doubt or mistaking His desires. My heart just thrills to respond.

I struggle more with the general instructions that we as Christ-followers are all called to obey. Loving my nieghbour. Respecting my husband. The 'doing good', trusting completely, surrendering fear, releasing doubt, rejoicing always, praying without ceasing and the list just goes on and on.

The Bible, God's instruction Book, gives us direction for all areas of life including marriage, parenting, business, finance, aging, worship, and loving. We need to receive His guidance with the joy expressed by the Psalmist earlier in this chapter as he wrote: "I delight in Your decrees; I will not neglect Your word", Psalm 119:16.

I think we're all familiar with the scenario of purchasing a product that highlights, "some assembly required". Included with the item is a multi-page booklet with details and diagrams to help aid construction. Most often we think we can handle the putting together on our own. We ignore the help provided that would make life easier because of our self-reliance. God has provided the "instruction manual" for our heart, soul and mind, yet from Sunday to Sunday many never open His Word for guidance and encouragement. God's Word has wisdom and reason that guides us for our best interest, keeping us under His protection and love. How foolish we are to neglect all God offers to us.

On our own, we cannot begin to follow His instructions 'exactly'. We need God's strength to enable us to obey. Living by God's instruction is a challenge, but it is the only way to spend our life. Our days don't need to be filled with guess work, but God's work as we allow Him to move our hearts in accordance with His will.

Desert Roads and Straight Streets

"As for Philip, an angel of the Lord said to him, 'Go south down the desert road that runs from Jerusalem to Gaza.'...and he met the treasurer of Ethiopia...reading aloud from the book of the prophet Isaiah." Acts 8:26-28

I love the examples in scripture where God brings people and circumstances together for His purposes, making connections that would seem impossible apart from His hand orchestrating events. In Acts 8 we see God calling Philip to travel south to meet the treasurer of Ethiopia, and in the chapter that followers we read about a believer in Damascus named Ananias whom the Lord directs to "Go over to Straight Street to the house of Judas. When you get there, ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul. He is praying to Me right now. I have shown him a vision of a man named Ananias coming in and laying hands on him so he can see again." (Acts 9:11-12)

How would you respond to such seemingly random requests? Imagine being Philip or Ananias. Philip didn't know that Ethiopian at all, which may have made it easier than poor Ananias. This dear Christ-follower was aware of Saul's reputation and there was a very real possibility that Ananias could be arrested, or worse yet, killed for calling on the name of the Lord. Both Philip and Ananias were specifically chosen by God to fulfill needs in the lives of others.

These examples are so reassuring to me. First, as a Christ-follower, it comforts me to know that I am not going to miss any adventure with the Lord unless I choose to do so. I can be anywhere, doing anything when God moves my thoughts and heart in an act of obedience that may seem nonsensical, but it is providential and needed for the furthering of His kingdom.

It's also a blessing to realize that if I'm the one in need, God can move on the heart of anyone to be my answer. It could be a friend or a stranger, but if God has a message that needs to be delivered or a service provided, He can use anyone. There will be no missed-adventures with the Lord.

God sent Philip to a desert road and Ananias to "Straight Street". We don't know where God may call us to go, but we know that at the end of the road there is someone who needs to encounter Jesus through us. And, if we're the one in need, our "Philip" and "Ananias" are on the way, so keep a watchful eye!

Betrayer Becomes Bold

"But Peter...replied, 'We must obey God rather than human authority.'" Acts 5:29

After healing a crippled man and having charges laid against them by the council of rulers, elders, and teachers of religious law in Jerusalem, Peter and John return to tell the other disciples all that has happened. Because the two men gave testimony to these leaders that the healing came through the powerful name of Jesus Christ, declaring salvation was found in Him alone, the council threatened these courageous disciples. Peter and John were released however because the leaders feared a riot. When all the other believers heard the report, they lifted their voice in prayer and praise!

Later, facing further opposition from officials and warned against teaching in the name of Jesus, Peter again takes a bold stand proclaiming his allegiance to Christ. He will obey God over any other human authority!

Peter was evidently no longer the same man who, before Christ's crucifixion, quickly denied Jesus when feeling intimidated by a servant girl. Much has changed in Peter's life. He has witnessed the resurrection of his Saviour and has been filled with supernatural power. Things change forever when you see death defeated. Fear diminishes and courage rises.

From cowering to courageous. The man who denied, now determined and deliberate. The dabbler turned disciple. From hiding in the shadow to people seeking to stand in his shadow (Acts 5:15). From impetuous to intentional. What happened?

When God's power shows up His passion is released. A personal encounter with the Lord changes everything, or at least it should. The indwelling of the Holy Spirit enabled a reformation that resulted in the gospel being shared and many coming to know Christ. The key was in the time Peter spent in communion with the Lord. He was becoming like the one with whom he was abiding and there was outward evidence of an inner dwelling, leading to transformation. Peter didn't just simply change his mind. Peter was changed by the presence and power of the Lord.

As you reflect back over your life are there evidences of growth? Can you identify times, when knowing the reality of Christ's presence, you were able to face situations or people who would have formerly made you anxious, but now you stand victorious because of God at work in your life? Have you noticed an increasing measure of personal willingness to share your faith, confirming your allegiance to Christ? You too can go from sporadic dabbler to Spirit-filled disciple as you allow the Lord to permeate your life to overflowing!

Seeing and Seizing

"Peter saw his opportunity and addressed the crowd." Acts 3:12a

Disappointed that I did not find the item I was searching for, I headed for the store exit. Funny, I had felt so compelled to stop here. I hadn't left the house planning on coming this way, but an inner prompting persuaded my destination. Now I was frustrated. It was freezing cold outside. I really hadn't had the time for this extra stop. I needed to get home. My husband had just had oral surgery and I should be checking in on him and playing "nurse".

My departure was detained by a young woman leaving he store. I was in such a hurry behind her, at first I didn't see why she was walking so slowly. Completely immersed in my own world, I was unaware of her need or I was choosing not to see. Upon closer observation I realized she was pushing a baby stroller with one hand, while pulling a fully loaded cart with the other. A human "train" so to speak. It was almost Christmas and she was obviously shopping and by the looks of her cart's contents, she had been more fortunate than I.

As she headed towards the parking lot, struggling to keep all her treasures within her grasp, a thought filled my mind. Joy, offer to help her. Immediately I dismissed the idea. I reasoned that she would refuse my help anyway. These days everyone is skeptical of others who offer their services. She would be concerned about "stranger danger". She certainly wouldn't allow me to push her stroller, and I questioned, would she trust me with hundreds of dollars worth of merchandise? Offering to help would only make her nervous. She was handling everything alright. I should just leave her alone.

I turned a blind eye. Unlike Peter, I chose not to see my opportunity. I walked to my car. Unlocked the door. Sat inside. Glanced quickly back. It was then that it happened. As she tried to maneuver all her belongings over the curb, the shopping cart swayed and several of her purchases fell to the pavement. Frustration and exhaustion were written all over her face. As she picked up a skillet, looking for dents, I could almost hear her sigh and see the tear. How could she do it all? Care for an infant, shop, look after all the details of preparing for the holidays, and all in this unbelievably cold weather too. Surely her baby would rather be at home sleeping in a cozy crib, but she had gifts to buy and time was running out. So much still needed to be done. She was weary.

And here I sat. In a warm car. Opportunity seen but not seized. Stricken with guilt gut. My heart aches with my own selfishness. I can't turn back time, even if I wish I could.

Yes, I know, many of you would have helped without hesitation. You would have even gone the second mile, loading her car, returning her cart, making Jesus visible. I made a wrong decision. No excuses. No justifying. Just remorse.

Oh Lord, please forgive me for the many times I have not obeyed Your voice and neglected to seize the opportunity that I see standing right in front of me to share Your love. I can't go back, but I can move forward. Help me become someone You can turn to and say, "I'll ask Joy. She embraces My plans for her, trusts Me and steps out in faith."

I had felt compelled to go to this store, but I didn't purchase one thing. I believe now that God placed me there for the purpose of being His hands and feet to a young mom in need, but instead of letting her meet Jesus in an overcrowded parking lot, I said 'no' and walked away. And so tomorrow, and the next day, and the day after that, and all my tomorrow's I will be looking for that one in need. For the weary and wounded. For the broken and betrayed. For the forgotten and forsaken. For the lonely and the loveless. For the abused and abandoned. For the busy and the burdened. For the harried and the harassed. For whoever God allows me to see.

What about you? Don’t just see an opportunity, seize it!!!

How Deep Is Your Love?

"If you need the altar because the land you possess is defiled, then join us in the LORD's land, where the Tabernacle of the LORD is situated, and share our land with us. But do not rebel against the LORD or against us by building an altar other than the one true altar of the LORD our God." Joshua 22:19

How deeply do we care about another believer's walk with the Lord? If we see a brother or sister in Christ making compromises or straying from paths of obedience, do we love them enough to tenderly confront their choices because of our concern for their spiritual well-being?

In Joshua 22 we have a beautiful example of having courage to speak out when the holiness of God is in question. The tribes who had been allotted land on the eastern side of the Jordan River built a "large and imposing altar". When the rest of the people of Israel heard about what the tribes of Reuben, Gad and the half-tribe of Manasseh had done, they feared this altar was built to worship foreign gods and they immediately prepared to go to war against their own people, if necessary. If this was indeed an act of disobedience to the Lord, the other remaining tribes wanted to warn their relatives of the consequences of such a sin.

Before initiating a battle, they wisely addressed the situation, acting with divine wisdom as they sought clarification. Although what they had "heard" had disturbed and angered them, they didn't presume or jump to irrational conclusions. They did the right thing. They sent a representative to inquire an explanation. What a lesson that is in itself. How often do we make rash judgements based on something we have "heard" instead of what we truly "know"? We catch part of a conversation and our minds run with our own interpretation without understanding all the facts. How often a kind and gentle conversation would illuminate the truth.

As this delegation of leaders came to speak with the seemingly wayward tribes, not only did they question and warn, but not wanting to see these dear brothers drift away from the Lord, in an expression of incredible love, they extended an invitation for them to share some of their own territory and live with them. The desire for the hearts of these other Israelites, prompted the remaining western tribes to willingly offer, at great personal sacrifice, a share in their own land in order to see their relatives free of sin. This confrontation was more than words. They were offering to do whatever it took for the keeping of their souls from walking paths of disobedience.

So, again I ask, how deeply do we care about another believer's walk with the Lord? My heart has been so challenged by the price these brothers and sisters in the Lord were willing to pay for the protection of the hearts of others. 

In the end, once hearing the reasoning and understanding and seeing the situation from the correct perspective, resolution was found. However, I wonder the impact the western tribe's sacrifice and love had on the eastern tribes. As they reflected on the love that initiated the interaction, I can't help but think it had lasting influence. For dear ones to care so deeply for your obedience to the Lord is so tenderly beautiful.

Are there those in our circle of friends and family who we maybe need to grab a coffee with and share a conversation? Don't lightly dismiss any appearance of a wayward walk. Have courage. Be graciously direct. Reconcile relationships. Share and sacrifice your "land". Believe the best. Point each heart to Jesus.

Changed By His Presence

"The Red Sea saw them (the Israelites) coming and hurried out of their way! The water of the Jordan River turned away. The mountains skipped like rams, the hills like lambs! What's wrong, Red Sea, that made you hurry out of their way? What happened, Jordan River, that you turned away! Why mountains, did you skip like rams? Why, hills, like lambs? Tremble, O earth, at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the God of Jacob." Psalm 114:3-7

I smiled as I read the verses in Psalm 114. What was it that caused a sea to hurry, a river to resend and mountains and hills to skip and hop? As formidable as the Israelites could have appeared as they approached, it wasn't really their appearance that caused this response. All of nature was recognizing the presence of God and responded in the only way they knew how...in obedience. The sea and mountains were unable to stand against the presence of the Lord, and they had no choice but to act in joyful submission. If God's presence has such an influence on His creation, how does His presence in and around our lives impact us? Are we any different because of His presence with us?

The water and land identified God's presence, but do we? Do we see His hand at work around us? Do we hear His voice? Do we take time to notice Him? Does acknowledging Him help guide our words? Does knowing He's with us have any affect on our actions?

Years ago, I read the classic "Practicing the Presence of God" by Brother Lawrence. It's a call to being conscious of the Lord continually. "To meet God in everyday life, to be aware of being in the presence of God all the time, is not subjective experientialism, it is reality." (Peter Adam) We never have to doubt if God is with us. He is!

When we pause to pray, we acknowledge Him, but what happens after "Amen"? This benediction is not like closing a book or turning off the television. Just because we can't see a physical being doesn't mean that He has left the room. His presence remains. His presence should be influencing us at all times. We can't outrun it or deny it, but we can ignore it and dismiss it.

We encounter His presence through time in His Word and in prayer. We can know His presence through His people. We can awaken to His presence as we sing praise to His name. Being in His presence should fill our hearts with joy and peace. With His presence around us and within us, He is closer than our very breath.

Grandma Gordon, who lived to be over 100 years old, would pull out a chair for the Lord every morning as she sat down across from Him to read His word and pray. She intentionally welcomed His presence in a tangible way to heighten her own awareness of His with-ness. Throughout the rest of her day that chair was a reminder of God's constant companionship in her home.

I remember going to medical appointments during the Covid pandemic when no one could accompany me, but I still didn't go alone. On the morning of my surgery, I distinctly recall reaching out my hand just as I entered through the hospital's revolving doors, a physical demonstration of reaching for God's hand, certain of His presence by my side. 

We need to cultivate ways that help us become more aware of God. The culture is doing everything it can to drape a cloak of doubt and denial over anything that even slightly resembles the Lord. With Christ alive in us we need to be ambassadors, making His nearness visible by the way we reflect His glory in our obedience and radiate His love to others. We should be changed by His presence and if that involves a little hurrying, turning away, trembling and skipping then others will see that we are filled with the Lord.

Claiming the Remaining

"Then Joshua asked them, 'How long are you going to wait before taking possession of the remaining land the LORD, the God of your ancestors, has given to you?" Joshua 18:3

I've always remembered a quote from a Beth Moore Bible study I did at least fifteen years ago: "Satan is standing on your God-given-ground daring you to take possession of it."

Wondering what "land" of ours Satan is standing on, taunting us, while God is still asking us to take possession of it because He has already given it to us. We know it's ours, but we've done nothing to move towards conquering it in His Name. Procrastination has us hesitating. We need a Joshua to come and question us to put a little dynamite under our feet to get us moving. There is territory God wants us to own for ourselves but we've neglected taking control.

Promised land must be possessed. There is a tension that exists between the receiving and the responsibility. God's gifts shouldn't make us apathetic, but cause us to arise and do whatever it takes to claim what is ours in Christ. Often there is initiative that must be taken on our part to finalize the agreement. God will faithfully keep His promise, but the fulfillment involves our faith and obedience.

Where are you dragging your heels? Have you known the leading of God into new territory but you're lacking spiritual zeal to move forward? Maybe you started with great passion, but drive diminished and there is still land remaining that isn't fully occupied. You know exactly what I'm talking about. It's all those projects the Holy Spirit prompted you to do, but busyness, lack of interest, effort needed and disobedience had you walk away. Passivity isn't pleasing to the Lord and it carries great risk. It's like standing in "no-man's land". It's really not un-owned, it's just uninhabited. It's land that needs to be claimed in the name of Christ.

How long are you going to wait? You see, the entire point of a divine inheritance of any property is the actual possession of it. What good is a possession of anything if we don't actually possess it? We must exercise both will and action to deliberately take hold of what God has already graciously given. We are called to participate in the possession. Yes, God does "give", but He is developing a spiritual muscle in us as we do the "getting" so that we will also be able to do the "keeping". Some possessing won't be easy, as obstacles could stand in the way, but the muscle that is strengthened will then help us maintain the land we now possess.

I heard someone say once that our personal land of promise is where we serve at ultimate effectiveness. It's no wonder that the enemy places a river of fear at its entrance. Let's wait no longer. Rise up and live in whatever God has given! You've surveyed the land and studied the map and now it's time to step in and conquer!

 

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the "land" that You have called us to. We confess the uncertainty that has kept us pausing instead of possessing. We desire to cooperate with You, arising and embracing fully our allotted portion. Give us strength to occupy fully what You have already given. Change and strengthen us in the acquisition process. Possessing land takes time, sacrifice, energy and commitment. Lord, we want to occupy all that You've given us to steward. You have promised and provided, now through Your power, help us possess. May our possession not be possessive, but standing on this new ground may we give praise to You and be used for Your glory. Amen.

Fearless or Fear Less?

"Praise the LORD! How joyful are those who fear the LORD and delight in obeying His commands...They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the LORD to care for them. They are confident and fearless..." Psalm 112:1, 7-8a

After hearing the speaker's introductory phrase, I was lost in thought: "Imagine a day without fear."

I know that previous devotions have touched on this nemesis, but if scripture can admonish us approximately 365 times not to fear, surely I can tackle the topic again today. You see, for me to envision a day without fear, it would have to be "imagined". At some moment of every day fear catches me off guard. As my constant companion it finds me, wrapping its tentacles around me in a vice grip. The thought of living even a day without it holds me spellbound. Is it even possible?

Today's verses clearly express two types of fear. Good fear and bad fear. One is to reverence and be in awe of the Lord. The other is the panic that pulses through our emotions and initiates fight or flight. Although this initial response is involuntary it's not how Christ-followers are called to live. In 2 Timothy 1:7, we are told that "God has not given us the spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love and self-discipline."

I hear the Lord coming to me again and asking, "You of little faith, why are you so afraid?" (Matthew 8:26). In love He inquires, "What is it this time?" The sad thing is, not only is there a "this time", there will probably be a "next time". I desire so much for my faith in God to banish all fear. I want to live with such confidence in the care of the Lord that I don't fear bad news. See, that's the point. It's not that bad news doesn't come, but when it does, fear isn't standing by its side, Jesus is.

As debilitating as fear can be, I will say this. I'm so thankful that when push comes to shove the Lord gives me strength not to let fear make any final decisions. Staring fear in the face the Lord has enabled me to overcome situations and be victorious, not because I was strong but because of powerful presence in me.

There isn't a formula to free ourselves from fear. There isn't a 10-step program or a technique that guarantees success in this area. Rather than trying to deny it, maybe like the Apostle Paul we need to declare it's reality in our hearts before we can fully depend on God to supply all we need in spite of our fear. Paul wrote to the Corinthians, "I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling" (1 Corinthians 2:3). Maybe part of fear's hold is its shame. We feel that as Christ-followers fear is evidence of weak faith. Fear is evidence that we need faith. 

I personally feel that if we are breathing, faith and fear will continually rub shoulders, but only one can ultimately govern our thoughts and actions. It comes down to who wins? Victory will go to whoever is fed the best. I don't know that we can eradicate fear completely but God can alleviate its impact as we take hold of the promises in His Word so that it doesn't dominate our lives.

Not certain if this side of eternity we will be fearless, but we can fear less as we joyfully delight in obeying the Lord and grow in our reverent awe of His holiness. Doing so, our confident trust in God will increase. Fearing not will go from imagination to actualization as we walk hand-in-hand with our Saviour.  

God Always Over If Only's

"I was forty years old when Moses, the servant of the LORD, sent me from Kadesh-Barnea to explore the land of Canaan...Now, as you can see, the LORD has kept me alive and well as He promised for all these forty-five years since Moses made this promise - even while Israel wandered in the wilderness. Today I am eighty-five years old." - Joshua 14:7a, 10

The words spoken above were voiced by Caleb, one of the men sent along with Joshua when Moses instructed them to go and spy out the land of Canaan. Caleb followed the Lord wholeheartedly and returned with an honest report regarding the Promised Land. Then, due to no fault of his own, he spent forty-five years trudging through the desert due to someone else's poor decision. 

Imagine. Forty-five years. That's a long time! Seemingly unnecessary years due to fear and disobedience of others. This wasn't his choice, but he became a helpless pawn in the play. He did everything right. He served sincerely and spoke truthfully, but a four-decade delay follows. How did he  respond? How would you respond? To what extent does frustration, aggravation, irritation and bitterness fill your heart over a wasted wait?

Recently my husband and I were met with another delay in his health care. For over eight months now he has been waiting for needed heart surgery following his cardiac arrest. In and out of hospitals, some set-backs because of his reaction to medication and others a result of his own personal well-being. Those are understandable and easier to accept. Then there are the phone calls of rescheduling that we have no control over at all. The surgeon has other emergencies deemed greater than our need. It's not our choice, but how do we respond?

The last time the Doctor's receptionist called to inform us not to come the following day for the anticipated operation, I could hear the hesitancy in her voice. I'm sure she does hate making these calls. She's just doing her job, be it sometimes unpleasant and stressful for her too, I'm sure. As I listened to her explaining the situation with the critical cases that now presented our postponement, multiple, mixed-feelings filled my heart, but I had a choice over how I would answer.

Throughout life we have to decide if feelings will dictate decisions or if we will trust that the Lord is sovereign and in control. Would expressing my disappointment and anger be beneficial? It wasn't this gal's fault we were facing another delay. We were just part of the fall-out of the changing schedule. Internal turbulence can still be real, but we can trust the Lord when situations shift without our being the cause. Instead of looking at the losses we can focus on the future. Instead of giving voice to the inner turmoil swirling, I told her how thankful I'd be if we were one of those emergencies and the recipients of the time the surgeon was making for us. She apologized again and gave us another hopeful date.

Not dwelling on a problem can be a difficult perspective. How easy it is to rewind injustices and live in what should have been. If only this had happened. If only things had gone this way. I wouldn't be in this crisis now if only someone else hadn't interfered. And, it may be completely true. You could be faultless in where your life is now found, but being held hostage to hostility only holds you as prisoner to your own captivity. 

Caleb was rewarded and eventually given the land he requested. Joshua blessed Caleb and God gave him strength to conquer the land of Hebron and drive out the Anakites. I'll tell you; this is not "easy street" living. It's hard. It's not being weak or walked-over, but being won-over and yielded to the purposes and plans of Christ and growing in trust through every opportunity in every moment of our lives. Today if it feels like you're lumbering through land due to other's lingering, no languishing. Allow God to enliven your heart with the truth of His Word and the promise of His sovereignty as you move forward in obedience to Him.

Unexplainable!

"...the LORD destroyed them with a terrible hail storm from heaven...The hail killed more of the enemy than the Israelites killed with the sword...the sun stood still and the moon stayed in place...The sun stayed in the middle of the sky and it did not set as on a normal day. There has never been a day like this one before or since, when the LORD answered such a prayer. Surely the LORD fought for Israel that day!" - Joshua 10:11, 13-14

I do not know a lot about astronomy. I really don't have much of a scientific mind. I don't understand weather patterns, although I do check the forecast most days. Recently we were the observers of a solar eclipse. The moon passed between the earth and the sun, obscuring the view of the sun from parts of our planet for a few minutes at a time. Although we couldn't see much occurring because of the clouds present, the sky grew dark and we knew something incredible was happening.

Listening to the different media broadcasts during the event was quite disheartening. The response on social media was equally disappointing. In an online neighbourhood group that I belong to, one dear lady mentioned the darkness that fell over the earth at Christ's crucifixion. Although this was vastly shorter in duration, she wondered if it had been similar. The comments she received all credited "mother nature". One person wrote: "Please people, it is purely planet and universal scheduling." And... who do you think does that scheduling?

Psalm 33:6 says, "The LORD merely spoke, and the heavens were created. He breathed the word, and all the stars were born." In Isaiah 45:12 God declares, "I am the One who made the earth and created human beings to live there. By My power I stretched out the heavens; I control the sun, the moon and the stars." 

In Joshua 10 we are reminded of the sovereign rule of God over nature. In a display of His great power and for the protection of His people, He does two absolutely incredible acts. First, He sends a terrible hail storm from heaven that kills more of the enemy than those actually fighting with the sword. This wasn't random. It can't be explained as a phenomenon of nature. God routed the enemy and then rained down hail with precise timing and aim so that His mighty hand was evident. Second, God responds to a remarkable prayer of boldness and faith, as Joshua requested the Lord to stop the sun and the moon in their tracks. Who would even think to ask that? Obviously the prayer itself was placed on Joshua's heart by the Lord, so that the Israelites would see God's power on display once again.

What an encouraging reminder this portion of scripture is to us. It reminds us of the unique miracles God designs to manifest His presence as He reigns over all the earth. It also expands our belief. Our finite minds come up with finite solutions and so often we pray finite prayers. We need to grasp a bigger picture of our limitless God. We often want to have explainable solutions. We worry far too much about the "how" when we should be broadening our view of "Who". He is never restricted or bound by our human comprehension. Just because we can't explain it, doesn't mean God can't do it!

What situation are you facing right now that needs a "hail storm" or a "stationary sun and moon"? Do you really know that God can intervene at any time and in any way? And even more mind-blowing is the truth that He sees you and knows you by name and absolutely nothing you're experiencing is hidden from Him. Our God is big! His thoughts are not our thoughts, nor His ways our ways. He loves us, sees us, and by the power of His hand He holds us! Praise be to God!

Who You Gonna Call?

"...but they did not consult the LORD." Joshua 9:14b

Who do you consult about the big and little things in life? If a decision needs to be made, how do you go about discovering the best way to proceed? Many seek out facts, becoming more knowledgeable, so they can make a wise and informed decision. Maybe you ask advice from family or call a couple of friends. Some just quickly choose a response that will make them happiest and be the easiest.

In the spring of 2021 I was informed that I had osteoporosis. At the time of diagnosis my oncologist gave me two months to make an informed decision regarding three treatment options. During those two months I prayed for the Lord to somehow speak to me so I would know how to respond when the decision needed to be made.

About a week before the scheduled phone appointment with my Doctor, I still didn't know which direction to take. For two months I had sought the Lord's will daily, and I felt so confident that He was going to somehow specifically guide. On this morning I opened God's Word as I do every morning, believing and trusting, knowing God still had seven days to provide guidance and knowing all He needed was a moment. I prayed I wouldn't miss anything He wanted to say.

My reading that morning included Psalm 34. It's such a beautiful Psalm. It holds the precious verses, "Taste and see that the Lord is good"; "All who look to Him are radiant." I was reading along just enjoying the sweet truths in His word when suddenly I came to verse 20: "For the LORD protects the bones of the righteous; not one of them is broken!"

I remember stopping at that time as those words jumped off the page and I immediately asked, "Lord, are You saying that You will keep my bones?" Knowing the difficulty I might face by refusing any suggested medical treatment, I prayed that if this was God's answer to me, He would confirm it again before the physician's phone call. I prayed that I wouldn't be taking scripture out of context and that if God wanted me to trust Him and do nothing in the way of intervention at this time, somehow, He would verify this direction to me.

A few days later a friend shared a verse on social media. It was Isaiah 58:11, "The Lord will guide you continually." I loved the assurance of that promise. I immediately thanked the Lord, and committed again to keep trusting that He would bring clarification and validation. I grabbed my Bible to underline the verse from Isaiah, and as I did, I realized what my friend had shared was not the entire text. As I began to highlight the words, this is what I read: "The Lord will guide you continually; He will satisfy your desire in scorched places and will make your bones strong..." WHAT? I had not intentionally gone looking for "bone" verses, but here it was again.

I began praying that my oncologist would receive my response without argument, and the incredible thing was, he did! The following two years I went for bone density tests, and both revealed an increase in bone density. In fact, so pleased was he with the last test, he said we could wait two years to do a repeat scan! The Lord may still call me to medical intervention at some point, I don't know, but for now I'm responding in obedience to His direction for me until He guides otherwise.

In Joshua 9 we see the Israelite leaders being deceived by their enemies and ratifying an agreement with a binding oath based on their own perception of how things appeared. They did not seek counsel of the Lord, but, based on appearances, forged ahead on their own. 

Consulting God is the remedy for regrettable responses. Our understanding is limited, but God's is divine. He knows the choices we should make and the best paths to follow. Every decision has a consequence for good or bad. We can't afford to act presumptuously relying on our wisdom. Seek the Lord in all things, and have faith He will provide.

Seeing God in the Middle

"So Joshua...told them, 'Go into the middle of the Jordan, in front of the Ark of the LORD your God. Each of you must pick up one stone and carry it out on your shoulder - twelve stones in all, one for each of the twelve tribes of Israel. We will use these stones to build a memorial..." Joshua 4:4-6a

I've always loved the idea of "memory stones". We have objects in our home that have been purchased to mark the remembrance of a move from God. The "bell" that hangs on our wall in the kitchen reminds me of how the Lord brought me physical healing from a cancer journey. A wall-plaque that reads "live loving" is a constant reminder of my mom, a lady who loved living, and lived loving, constantly bringing Christ into every conversation. A chocolate bar wrapper in an "Answered Prayer Jar" signifies a time when the Lord showed Himself as a very personal God to our son as a child. Each item causes my heart and mind to remember the goodness of God.

Joshua instructs one member from each of the tribes of Israel to go into the Jordan and retrieve a stone. What caught my attention is where they had to find the stone. It wasn't on the water's edge or close to the shoreline where it's safe. They had to obtain the rock from the middle of the riverbed.

The middle. The half-way point. You've come midway but there's an equal distance ahead that still needs to be travelled. It's from this place of still trusting God for rescue, while not experiencing full victory yet, that God instructs stones to be chosen. It's smack dab in the center of uncertainty, while distant waves threaten, and the sound of wind swirls viciously that the Lord says remember this moment. The middle is where you are standing on the ground of your impossibility and God's possibility.

We'd prefer to pick up our stone on the water's edge. We don't want to traverse the deepest part of any journey. If we could only live life close to the banks of the Jordan. God often calls us out into the deep, and it's there that we experience His hand and grow in trust. It's in the depths that we encounter the Lord in new and glorious ways. It's when we don't know with certainty the outcome before us that our faith increases as we look to Him. The middle is where we remember God's work in our lives the most. The middle becomes the fertile soil for flourishing faith.

Like a river, our lives ebb and flow, and the middle can also represent the everyday, ordinary, day-to-day living. It's not high. It's not low. It's in these middle moments where we can also forget the Lord. It's here in the regular routine of everyday that we also need to gather stones and plant our feet on the promises of God's word.

A quick caution regarding these memorials. They are not to be monuments of completion, but footprints that say, "This is where I was when God moved me again." The memorial is an altar, the footprint is an adventure. One marks history, the other is the ongoing writing of "His story" across our lives. We need the "memory stones", but we also need to feel the fresh dirt rising beneath our sandals. 

Much of life is lived in middle moments. What represents your twelve stones today? How can you intentionally take note of the activity of God right now in the middle of your situation? Not only will these "stones" spur your heart to remember the Lord's presence with you, but they are great conversation starters, giving opportunity to share God-stories with all who comment on them. Middles can be weary, but God is also the in-between and beauty can be found in the now and not-yet. Pick up one stone and let it mark the Lord's presence with you in the middle of your Jordan.

A Radical Rahab Faith

"So the two men set out and came to the house of a prostitute named Rahab and stayed there that night." Joshua 2:1b

After Moses death, Joshua becomes the leader of the Israelites. The time has come to cross over into the promised land and he sends two spies on a mission to strategically determine how best to plan the long-awaited takeover. They come to the house of a prostitute named Rahab and take lodging there.

Whenever I hear the name "Elijah" I think "prophet". The name "Matthew" is associated with "tax collector". "Nicodemus" was a "Pharisee". With "Jonah" we link "whale", with "Daniel" we imagine a "lion's den". Names are synonymous with stories. If you have children, most likely choosing a name for your son or daughter took time. Some names remind us of loved ones, while others stir up memories we'd rather dismiss. Word association is powerful. A name can represent our identity, either good or bad. Rahab is introduced to us as a prostitute. But, was Rahab's occupation the most important thing about her?

In a tremendous act of bravery, Rahab hides the two spies from the king's messengers who inquire of her as to their whereabouts. She protects the Israelites at great personal risk to herself. I love her first recorded words to the Israelites: "I know the LORD has given you this land." She doesn't question the conquering at all. In a declaration of tremendous faith she voices her belief in the certainty of victory. So confident her faith in the Israelite's God that she put her life on the line to save His people.

"When we read Rahab's story, starting in Joshua 2, we find that the centerpiece of Rahab's story is a different kind of profession - not her line of work but her profession of faith: 'The LORD your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below,' the harlot proclaimed, thus identifying herself with Yahweh, the God of Israel." (Amanda Bible Williams)

Rahab's faith is remarkable. She acted on what she professed to believe. Her faith was not just knowledge. True faith acts, and it's implausible when trusting in a God so big not to respond in a way that gives evidence to His greatness. Rahab was just a regular person who believed God and responded in a way that gave testimony of this assurance. I love what has been recognized by Charles Spurgeon regarding Rahab's faith. Her faith was saving, singular, stable, self-denying, sympathizing and sanctifying.

Is your profession of faith pointless or powerful? When others see your life do they see a living faith? Do you simply claim faith or does your life characterize faith? Our actions speak louder than our words. Is your primary profession and posture one of belief in who God is and all He can do?

The faith of this foreigner found favour. She later became the mother of Boaz, an ancestor of David, in the lineage of Jesus. Her faith moved her from harlot to hero. The Lord remembers Rahab in the New Testament, not as a prostitute, but as a woman of faith. Her name appears in Hebrews 11 with those who counted the cost of following the Lord and willingly identified with Him by their activity. Her obedience was commendable and God, through the use of a scarlet thread in the window, spared her life. The scarlet thread, the symbol of the blood of Christ, that gives forgiveness and mercy to all who believe.

Prostitute can be defined as using something valuable in an inappropriate way. For those of us who claim the name of Christ, we carry within us the most precious treasure. The Lord is to be desired more than gold, and He is sweeter than honey straight from the comb. Are we living in ways that declare His worth to us? Do we have a radical "Rahab" faith that takes God at His word regardless of personal risk?

Rahab's profession was not her occupation but her obedience. Her profession of faith overshadowed her profession of shame as God redeemed and remembered Rahab. Her works didn't save her but revealed a genuine faith flowing from a recognition of God and a new-found relationship with Him. May our profession of life in Christ be obvious in our steps of obedience as our actions affirm our belief.

The Blessing

"This is the blessing that Moses, the man of God, gave to the people of Israel before his death." Deuteronomy 33:1

Only a week ago I watched a webinar with Dr. John Trent, who co-authored the book, "The Blessing" with family counsellor Gary Smalley. Using scripture, it outlines five main aspects of a spoken blessing, giving practical encouragements on how to both bless others and be a blessing in the lives of those around us.

Before he dies, Moses takes the time to bless the tribes of Israel. Although in the past he has been instructed to speak words of reprimand and correction, now this leader of the Israelites gives one final prophetic declaration over the people God gave him to lead. Addressing each of the twelve tribes individually, the greatest prophet in Hebrew Scripture speaks words of encouragement that greatly impacted future generations.

Have you ever had a blessing spoken over you? Over 35 years ago, my husband and I stood with heads bowed, holding hands. A hush fell over the room as a very dear friend, Reverend Dr. "Bill" Newell, raised his hand to proclaim God's blessing over us as we were about to head off on our honeymoon following a glorious day of wedding celebration. He prayed so beautifully, concluding with the Aaronic blessing from Numbers 6:24-26: "The LORD bless you, and keep you; The LORD make His face to shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: The LORD lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace." Amen.

The room remained silent. With tears in my eyes, I recall hugging our families goodbye before setting off together as husband and wife. A sacred moment wrapped in God's blessing.

Years later, following the reading of Trent and Smalley's offering, and using it as my guide, I wrote a blessing that I began praying over my son on his first day of Kindergarten. After bedtime prayers, his dad or I, Grandma or Grandpa, or sometimes a babysitter, would recite or read "Christopher's blessing" before saying goodnight for the day. He wouldn't go to sleep without his blessing. It read as follows:

"O Lord Jesus, You love the innocence of childhood and lovingly embraced and blessed the little children who were brought to You. Anticipate Christopher's needs with Your tender blessings and grant that no evil will corrupt his mind, but that advancing in age, in wisdom and in grace, Christopher would live so as to please You always. Watch over Your child Lord, and as his days increase bless and guide him wherever he may be, keeping him unspotted from the world. Strengthen him when he stands. Comfort him when discouraged or sorrowful. Raise him up if he should fall and in his heart, may Your peace, which passes understanding abide all the days of his life. Lord, be a shield of protection about him. We love you Christopher. May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you. May the Lord lift up His countenance on you and give you peace. Amen."

That little boy is now a daddy of two precious children of his own, and he has indeed seen the goodness of the Lord over his life. He and his wife, being musical, wrote "Tonight", a lullaby of blessing, before their first child was born, which, to my knowledge, they still sing over the lives of their little ones at bedtime. Every time I hear it, the tender lyrics move me to tears as they ask for God's presence and protection over the precious children the Lord has entrusted in their care.

Spoken blessings matter. Maybe it doesn't have to be done in such a formal way, but our Spirit-led words can lift a heart and direct thoughts back to the keeping hand of God over our lives and the lives of others. Praying for the Lord's blessing to be upon all who read this today. May you know that "The eternal God is your refuge, and His everlasting arms are under you." Deuteronomy 33:27a

Pathway to Promise

"Then He (God) sent someone to Egypt ahead of them - Joseph, who was sold as a slave...Until the time came to fulfill his dreams, the LORD tested Joseph's character." Psalm 105:17, 19

I've always enjoyed reading the account of Jacob's son Joseph in scripture. Although many see him as the spoiled, favoured child who was too proud for his own good, there is no denying the touch of the Lord on his life. I remember going to Toronto to see Donny Osmond in "Joseph and the Amazing Technical Dreamcoat". For a secular composition it didn't stray far from scripture. 

In case you're unfamiliar with the Genesis story, when Joseph began relating his dreams to his older brothers, their animosity towards him grew as his prophetic visions suggested he would one day be ruling over them. This led to their plot to kill him, but through a series of events, this 17-year-old teenager was instead sold to some merchants, who in turn sold him to a ruling Egyptian named Potiphar.

Yes, Joseph was sold as a slave, but this wasn't a random act of cruelty initiated by jealous siblings. God needed a deliverer for His people in Egypt. As we read in Psalm 105, the Lord "sent" Joseph to Egypt. The "selling" was the path in God's greater plan.

Once Joseph arrived at his God-ordained destination he still faced difficulties. His dreams weren't instantly realized. He was falsely accused of sexual advances by Potiphar's wife and placed in prison, where he remained for an unknown number of years. Through this time God was testing Joseph's character. We know he gained the favour of the prison warden, and was given responsibilities as overseer. He was eventually released, returning to the palace, being appointed head of Egypt at the age of 30, his dreams finally fulfilled.

A lot happened in those thirteen years from pit to palace, but every single detail was guided by the hand of God. Joseph's brothers didn't initiate the route to Egypt, they were only instruments of the Lord for God's purposes to be satisfied in his life. Joseph may have been sold, but God sent. The avenue for his advancement took time, and the Lord watched with interest to see how Joseph responded to each set-back.

We want the journey from revelation to realization to be immediate, but the destination is not God's only goal. Yes, the Lord had purposes for Joseph to fulfill as ruler and God used him greatly for the salvation of many people, but until his character matched his calling God continued to test him, growing, refining and preparing him for all that would eventually be included in the fulfillment of his dreams. The pathway to promise can seem perplexing to us, but it is designed by God for our good.

Has God planted a dream-seed in your heart that you wish had bloomed already? Is your heart holding a desire that you sense is from the Lord? If it hasn't happened yet, you're not ready yet. Trust God. Serve Him. Continue to spend time with the Lord and in His Word. Remain faithful. Be confident that God is in charge and in the fulness of time He will act. When God says 'now', nothing can stop all He has planned for you. Your sending might be soon, just don't be surprised at the roundabouts He might take as He refines and readies you for its eventual reward.

Stuck in the Tree of Knowledge

"The LORD our God has secrets known to no one. We are not accountable for them, but we and our children are accountable forever for all that He has revealed to us, so that we may obey all the terms of these instructions." Deuteronomy 29:29

Have you ever sat in a discussion group that becomes more of a debate, as attendees determine to correctly interpret and understand a passage of scripture? I love the study of God's Word, and my bookshelves are filled with various translations of the Bible, concordances, study guides and commentaries. If a passage of scripture has me confused, I'm quick to go online to some of my favourite Bible teachers to see if I can glean insight into the text, asking the Lord to guide me to understanding through the power of His Holy Spirit. Unfortunately though, sometimes, like our ancestors in the garden of Eden, we find ourselves stuck in the tree of knowledge, the source of original sin.

I think a problem can arise when research takes over revelation. We can be so adamant to know God's thoughts and interpretation that we can be straining at gnats while swallowing camels. We focus on something, that though important, shifts our thoughts away from the larger truth God is wanting to reveal. We get so side-tracked by a "bunny trail" that we accentuate the lesser important while completely missing the overall lesson the Lord is trying to teach us. We take great pains over the minor, while disregarding the major. If the answer really has no bearing over salvation, eternity or how I will live for Jesus, let it go.

Head knowledge is not the ultimate outcome. I've sat in gatherings where the entire time has been concentrated on interpreting one verse of scripture whose exegesis ends in more confusion. Instead of leaving the Bible study with a sense we have met with the Lord, learning from Him, I exit frustrated and annoyed. I often think if we would spend as much time discussing the obvious truths we know to be justifiable and plainly expressed in God's Word, walking in obedience to them, then the hours together would have been more productive and edifying to the Lord. The Psalmist writes it this way in Psalm 131:1, "I don't concern myself with matters too great or too awesome for me to grasp."

There are secrets in scripture only known to the Lord. Accept that! There is mystery that surrounds God. If we were to fully understand every detail, we would all become our own little "g" gods. We would hold all the answers. Know everything. Trust in our own knowledge. Instead, the Lord keeps some things hidden from our understanding. It's actually so incredible that the Lord does choose to reveal some of His sweet secrets to us, but there is some knowledge that God keeps to Himself.

In the book of Deuteronomy we read through so many commands that we are accountable to obey. If we put as much effort and attention into following God's revealed truth as we do to figuring out what we will never fully understand, we'd be more content, instead of stirring up contention and controversy. Paul writes to Titus, "avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless" (3:9).  As we struggle to answer the "why's" and "how's" of God, knowing the meaning could be a hidden secret belonging to the Lord, can be a calming encouragement.

God reveals Himself through His Son, Jesus Christ, and He desires us to learn how to live our lives by walking in His steps. Father, protect me from the pain that questioning every word can bring and help me trust You when I don't understand. May I remember that Your ways and thoughts are higher than mine (Is 55:9) and relinquish to You any anxiety that the unknown holds. Thank You for the one thing I know for certain. I am Yours and You are mine!

Finding Rest Amidst the Rubble

"They attacked you when you were exhausted and weary, and they struck down those who were straggling behind..." Deuteronomy 25:18a

"Really Lord? Seriously, this had to happen too? Am I not already going through enough? Does this have to be added to the already lengthy list of things I'm trying so hard to navigate and surrender to You? Truthfully, I feel the weight overwhelming me with constant stress. Really Lord?"

Have you been there? Do you ever think if one more thing happens it will be the tipping point? Emotionally, mentally, physically and possibly even spiritually, you've reached a critical point. If there is even the slightest hint of unwelcomed news, or one more crisis, one more challenging report, one more care or concern, it will threaten your ability to keep going. And then it happens. The phone call. The email. The meeting. The medical scare. The added worry. It's that straw. You know the one. It's the last occurrence in a series of unfortunate events, and although it may be small, the weight of its addition threatens collapse. Coming out of left field, it hits hard when you're already carrying what can seem like the weight of the world.

The enemy knows precisely when to time his attacks. Although there is nothing in scripture to indicate that he is omniscient, he is a master of observation. He watches our human behaviour, and like the Amalekites who had no fear of God and came after the Israelites when they were vulnerable, Satan knows when to strike. As the expression goes, he finds delight in kicking someone when they are already down.

This is a desperate place to be. Fatigue makes you fragile. You're at a breaking point. Anxiety claims slumber. Thoughts magnify doubts. You don't want to hear one more "trust God" or "don't be afraid" because your mind knows these words so well you could say them in your sleep....if you were sleeping.

You long to be a testimony of God's provision and strength. You might even be looking brave while running scared. You want those around you to see God through your response to the trials you're facing, but in reality you're on the verge of shattering. Everything collides at once, inciting a collapse. You armour up as more arrows fly. As each missile makes contact with your shield your feel it's impact, wishing the fight didn't always have to be so hard. If only victory could come easily, without the often accompanying wounding and suffocating panic.

There are times when in all honesty, we have every reason to be bankrupt in well-being. So, what do we do when consumed with "enemies" attacking us while we are suffering and straggling behind? Do we keep trying to fight from a place of depletion? No. We fall. We fall into the arms of the One who promises to carry us through. His yoke is easy and His burden is light. Any who have made that great exchange know it to be true. Yes, God does allow our lives at times to be touched by more than we can handle because He desires to reveal more of His strength, love, goodness, mercy and grace to us.

Today if you feel forsaken, frail and forgotten, know that there are other fellow travellers who have sat in the rubble on that road. Christ Himself is familiar with paths of pain, but just as He rose victorious, He is with you and will take your hand, raising you from the ashes. Feel His arms around you. Rest in Him. He will hold you tight amidst the turmoil until the turnaround. Maybe not a reversal of happenings, but a revival of heart.

Ignorance Is Not Bliss

"If you see your neighbour's ox or sheep or goat wandering away, don't ignore your responsibility. Take it back to its owner...Do the same if you find your neighbour's donkey, clothing, or anything else your neighbour loses. Don't ignore your responsibility. If you see that your neighbour's donkey or ox has collapsed on the road, do not look the other way. Go and help your neighbour get it back on its feet!" Deuteronomy 22:1, 3-4

There are some memories that never leave us. The precious ones, we rejoice over and treasure. Then there are others whose recall spurs in us a desire to respond differently the next time.

I'm ashamed to actually share this personal illustration of failing to live out today's scripture passage. Although this happened years ago, it's as vivid as if it were yesterday. I had hurried into the grocery store to pick up a couple of items and in between the double doors of the entrance I saw something on the floor. With it being winter, and not desiring the item to be trodden down by the slushy wheels of the grocery carts, I bent over to pick it up and place it on the display just inside the door. As I did so, I realized it was the hood from a child's winter coat. My hope was that they would see it as they exited the store, had they even noticed it was missing. Patting myself on the back for this kind deed, I began my shopping.

So far, so good...right? Aren't I great! I didn't leave the article of clothing on the ground, but put it somewhere enabling it to be seen and located. Many would have left it. I picked it up. Aren't I a hero!

Here comes the embarrassing part. While gathering the items on my shopping list, I saw a young boy about 10-12 years of age. He was frantically hurrying up and down each aisle, obviously in search of something. There was no denying this child had lost an object, and was in a bit of a panic as he looked up and down each row of the store. I actually overheard him say, "My mom is going to kill me."

Friends, I did nothing. I didn't ask the young fellow what he was looking for. I didn't offer to help him find whatever he had lost. I mean, honestly, I knew what had him afraid. His coat was the same colour as that hood I had picked up, and his was missing. I did nothing! Why? Because a voice inside me said, "Don't worry. He'll see it when he leaves the store. You left it in a visual area that he can't miss." Seriously? What if it had been moved? What if, in this child's fright, he missed seeing it completely? I could have, at that very moment, been the answer to his anxiety, calmed his fear and walked him over to where I had placed his hood. But I didn't, and that memory rises to disappoint me to this day. I did exactly what the scripture verses above warned about; I ignored my responsibility and looked the other way.

We know from the Gospel of Luke we are called to be "Good Samaritans". Jesus defined "neighbour", not only as those who live beside us, but anyone He allows to cross our path. That never-to-be-forgotten encounter is actually just one of others, from many years ago, that now prompts me to act. Oh, I can excuse my behaviour by claiming shyness. I can convince myself the young lad found his hood because I left it so accessible. I can justify keeping silent because I didn't hear him mention a hood. It's so easy to find back doors and escape clauses to condone sin. 

Father, so often You give me eyes to see a need, and in selfishness and disobedience I do nothing. You place me on a path to be the provision to someone's cry for help, and I ignore my responsibility or look the other way. Lord, I confess times I have desperately failed to be Your answer to another's difficulty. You were desiring to use me and I refused to be Your hands and feet. May the heartache of regret not become an unhealthy guilt, but from a place of forgiveness and restoration be the inspiration and encouragement to respond differently in any opportunities of undeserved grace You gift me in the days and years ahead.

Reframe Fear

"Then the officers will also say, 'Is anyone here afraid or worried? If you are, you may go home before you frighten anyone else." Deuteronomy 20:8

"Is anyone here afraid or worried?" Is your hand raised? I confess mine is.

Anyone familiar with the Christian classic "Hinds Feet on High Places" knows the main character in this allegory of a believer's life is called "Much Afraid". Although I don't desire those two words to define who I am, they do mark most of my life. Like the forlorn, young protagonist in the story I am often filled with more angst than I'd like to admit. Fear has had far too much freedom in my life.

I really do believe there were many things I was taught to fear as a child. I grew up under the shadow of my mother's fears. The inventory is long, but dogs, travel by plane, and thunderstorms probably top the list. Then there were fears that grew from experiences. You don't have to be held captive in a stationary elevator for long before you always look for the stairs, regardless of how many floors you may have to climb. But, what about the fears you can't get around, avoid or manage? You know the ones. Maybe they involve worries about health, my biggest nemesis. They could include family concerns of loved ones in situations that you have no control over. Restless, sleepless nights reveal fright.

I'll tell you, I've known the Lord personally for over 50 years. You would think by now my trust would have grown to the place of rest, not worry. Why is anxiety still so often my default? Believe me, it's not that I don't claim scripture and begin reciting every "fear not" Bible verse, imploring the Lord to fill me with His peace. It's also not that I haven't seen Him provide countless times in the past. He has never failed me yet, and I know His Word to be true. So why? Why am I still so often overwhelmed by fear and worry?

I remember facilitating a Bible study years ago and the topic of fear was being addressed. I will never forget the response of one of the attendees. With confidence she shared that she is never afraid. Never! I recall others in the group mentioning scenarios they felt for sure would cause her to admit some trepidation, but her testimony adhered to a life unhindered by fear. Although I believe this is what God desires, I honestly looked at her in disbelief, amazement and envy. I long for my life to give witness to the assurance I claim I have in the Lord's care for me.

Fear contradicts faith. It denies the sovereignty of God. With the number of repetitions of "do not fear" throughout the Bible, we know two things: we will, but we shouldn't. On our own we can't overcome the worries that awaken us in the night, but God has given us resources to battle this emotional enemy. Fear increases when its source is our focus. To prevail over it we need to meditate on God's promises, presence and power. We need to recognize fear as a catalyst to draw us near to God.

I'm thrilled for the friend I mentioned who never is afraid, but I personally believe it will always exist for me this side of eternity. I don't deny God could miraculously remove all fear from my heart and mind, and I can testify to areas in my life that used to threaten and no longer hold me captive. I think I need to reframe fear. May it's rising be a reminder to rest in the Lord. So, when my physical heart begins racing or skipping beats, may I look to the One who holds each moment of every day in His hands and trust in Him completely.

In closing, did you see what happened to the fearful in our text today? They weren't given a reprimand, they were simply removed from service. That might seem like a safe escape clause, not having to march into battle, but they also forfeited being used by God and seeing His victory. Something for us all to ponder.

Grabbing My Running Shoes

"Make a joyful noise to the LORD all the earth! Serve the LORD with gladness! Come into His presence with singing!" Psalm 100:1-2 (ESV)

Several years ago, a dear friend Elizabeth and I, assisted my sister Japhia as she gave leadership to a children's choir. "His Little Kids" was a precious group of 4- and 5-year-olds who would weekly gather to sing together while their mommies and daddies attended a discipleship group at the church. These youngers were also being discipled through truths in song.

I was always amazed at how much these children could retain! And so quickly! Incorporated into these 90 minutes, approximately 25 little ones would make a craft that coordinated with the theme of the evening, participate in an activity that reinforced the teaching, enjoy a time of prayer, and learn some scripture memorization. Ninety minutes is a long time for this age group, so to keep their attention the evening kept moving!

One of the Bible passages my sister chose for these children to learn was Psalm 100. She added motions to each phrase to aid in memory, as well as to visually depict the truth being taught. When it came to the sentence, "Come before His presence with singing", my sister wanted to convey the delight and desire of approaching the Lord with enthusiasm. She wanted them to understand the excitement of being able to be in God's presence. In order to best display this eagerness of coming to the Lord, she had the children running in place as they recited these words. It was adorable to watch their little legs racing while staying in one spot. Their arms would be pumping and their feet pounding the ground as they ran with fury and hurry!

Each Sunday she would ask for volunteers who wanted to help lead this part of the evening. There were always multiple hands raised in response. I'll never forget the night that one precious child led Psalm 100. In loud voice and with crystal clear diction this is what they said: "Make a joyful noise to the Lord all the earth. Serve the Lord with gladness. RUN into His presence with singing." Honestly, it was the most adorable slip of the tongue, but it caused all three leaders to pause. 

How do we enter God's presence? Do we reluctantly pick up God's Word to spend time with Him? Is it a struggle to find minutes in our schedule to intentionally come before Him? Do we gladly and zealously reach for our Bibles, anticipating what and how He will speak to us every time we open the scriptures? Are we bored or is God adored as our hungry and thirsty hearts yearn for His nearness and filling? Do we have a deep longing to know Him intimately? Is He so completely the passion of our soul that we will do whatever it takes to read His Word and sit awhile with Him?

Today I encourage you to evaluate your response to your Heavenly Father's invitation to spend time with Him. Your reluctance or excitement indicate your true inclination and desperation. Maybe we need to confess our lack of desire and ask the Lord to renew our passion. Lord, fill our inner being with gladness, joy and singing. It's possible that some of us may need to lace up our running shoes as an act of our fervour to be with Him. Let's run into His presence today because we just can't wait to praise and magnify our Lord!

A Test You Can't Afford to Fail

"Suppose there are prophets among you or those who dream dreams about the future...If they then say, 'Come, let us worship other gods' - gods you have not known before - do not listen to them. The LORD your God is testing you to see if you truly love Him with all your heart and soul. Serve only the LORD your God and fear Him alone. Obey His commands, listen to His voice, and cling to Him." Deuteronomy 13:1-4

How committed are you to the Lord? What would it take to cause your thoughts and heart to be enticed away from following Him? I'm always shocked and saddened when I hear the name of someone who has turned their back on the Lord, especially when it's a friend who had portrayed a strong commitment and love for Him. By all outward appearances they had been deeply devoted to Christ. They led Bible studies. They held prominent roles in their local church fellowship. They continually brought the Lord into their conversations. They shared God stories of His goodness. They went on mission trips, prayed, gave of their time, finances and resources to further God's Kingdom. Suddenly they appear to do a complete 180 turnaround and they no longer want anything to do with worship or the Word. They don't just lose enthusiasm and become complacent; they begin condemning the truths they once held so dear. What happens? How can they go from abiding in Him to abandoning their faith?

In Deuteronomy 13, God warns the Israelites through Moses not to be led astray from following the Lord. Like the false prophets who pretended to have divine inspiration, there are a number of different ways that can call our "prone to wander hearts" to stray. It really doesn't have to take much. The combination of exact time, emotions, silence, withdrawal, adversity and doubt can create the perfect storm in our thoughts and heart, convincing us to seek other solutions. Our standard of truth shifts to self. Once that happens, we become cynics of true Christianity and we deaden our own conscious from hearing and receiving truth.

Some call this "deconstructing". This is a word that many use now to speak of re-examining and re-thinking faith that can lead to rejecting the beliefs previously held so dear. It's a hard word to accurately define as it carries different concepts in different contexts. Deconstruction may bring someone to the point of no longer identifying as a believer, resulting in a "deconversion", or it may not. This is not just experiencing doubt or wresting to understand theology. By an honest, earnest seeker, both of those can result in a stronger more robust faith. A complete deconstruction is not just a "dark night of the soul". It's deeper. It's dangerous. It's allowing questions to so profoundly confuse that it brings a former, professing, evangelical Christian to a place of denying Christ, as their faith is critically dismantled.

What would it take to lead you away from God? Don't be too quick to think it couldn't happen. I'm sure the friends whose names come to my mind didn't intentionally just wake up one day and decide to renounce their faith. Little by little compromises were made and absolutes became suggestions. Instead of taking their inquiries, uncertainties and despondency to the Lord, they gave room for the enemy to use worldly influences to speak louder than His Word.

Dear friend, don't listen to the call of the world. As Moses writes, fear God alone. Truly love Him with all your heart and soul. Serve Him only. Obey His commands. Listen to His voice. Cling to Him. These are ongoing actions that will protect you as you pursue the Lord with all your might. It's an arrogant assumption to presume you can make it on your own. Purge your life from anything that rises as a "personal prophet" enticing you away from intimacy with the Father and say with the hymn writer, "Though none go with me, still I will follow."

*If you are currently in a season of struggle, I suggest reading "Fractured Faith: Finding Your Way Back to God in an Age of Deconstruction" by Dr. Lina Abujamra; Moody Publishers; Copyright 2021

New Songs

"Sing a new song to the LORD, for He has done wonderful deeds...Shout to the LORD, all the earth; break out in praise and sing for joy!...Make a joyful symphony before the LORD, the King!" Psalm 98:1a, 4, 6b

In the darkness we could hear the gentle turning of pages and then all was quiet for a brief moment. Suddenly the sound of an orchestra burst forth from the silence. As the lighting enhanced the music with its creative display of light, the overture the premier presentation of "It is Written" began.

This thrilling "modern oratorio" with eleven brand new songs and nine underscored narrations traces the story of salvation. Scripture is both narrated dramatically and presented musically through song. It is a large-scale work with all original songs and full orchestrations, complete with lyric videos. This musical depiction of God's rescue, redemption, recovery, ransom and return from Genesis to Revelation was presented for the first time at my home church this past Easter weekend.

The author and composer was doing exactly what Psalm 98 encourages. The instruction for "new songs" is found repeatedly through God's Word. Our worship needs to be fresh and energetic. We need to find innovative and effective ways to bring the gospel message, not only to others, but to our own hearts, keeping our passion for the Lord both exciting and inviting.

Back in Genesis 4 we are introduced to Jubal, described as the father of all who play stringed instruments and pipes. Some regard him as the "inventor of music", recognizing still that any ability is a gift from the Lord. From there we read of Psalms, hymns, prophetic songs, chants and dirges. Biblical heroes have a variety of themed songs in response to the activity of God. From Moses' first song of praise for deliverance in Exodus 15 to the final song of triumph in Revelation 15, there is a thread of music and celebration throughout God's written Word giving tribute to Him for who He is and all He does.

With victory songs, battle songs, prophetic songs, lamentations and worship, music and singing should be part of every Christ-followers life, yet, on any given Sunday there are those around me who I never see taking part in this thrilling opportunity to lift our voice in praise. Nowhere do I see God placing a condition of talent on our command to sing. The Lord loves our praise, whether it's pitch perfect or not. 

The melodies we sing to the Lord reflect our hearts. Music provides an intimate way for us to express our love and joy to God. He is so worthy of our praise. As Bob Kauflin, a songwriter and worship leader has said, "There's something about singing that both enables and encourages the rich indwelling of the word of Christ in our hearts. The 'word of Christ' is the gospel. It's who Jesus is, what He's done, and why it matters. The gospel is to dwell in us richly through singing. Singing is what helps us do that and express that."

Let's lift our voices today, joining with all creation as "the sea and everything in it shout His praise", "rivers clap their hands in glee" and "hills sing out their songs of joy before the LORD" (Ps 98:7-9a). 

* For more information regarding "It is Written", go to https://www.cb-press.com/it-is-written. The composer and arranger is my son.

No Editing!

"So be careful to obey all the commands I give you. You must not add anything to them or subtract anything from them." Deuteronomy 12:32

Years ago I received an email from a lady at my church requesting if I would consider editing a speech that she was preparing to share at a family gathering. I was blown away by the request. I'm not an editor. What did I know about revising anyone's writing? Did I even want the responsibility? What if I happened to offend her by correcting or changing her work? I'm not a genius in the literary field, although I do have a passion for words, and I certainly was willing to help. I agreed to read it over and gently "tweak" if necessary.

It's a daunting job to play editor, and I do mean "play", as I have absolutely no training. Working with another's words without inserting an opinion or disturbing the author's perspective and personality is challenging. It was tempting to add or subtract sentences based solely on my preference. English was not this woman's native tongue, so some phrases were backwards and some concepts a little confused. By the time I finished, I truly believe I kept her ideas intact. The message remained the same, just packaged with some new expression.

I wonder if we sometimes take on the role of "Editor" when it comes to God's Word. Do I believe that every sentence in the Bible is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, training and correcting? (2 Timothy 3:16) Am I convinced that every sentence and every thought in the Bible is inspired by the Holy Spirit? Do I sometimes desire to add or delete certain phrases, words, and even complete passages based on my obedience quotient? If God's directives fit neatly into my life with relative ease, I'll embrace and follow, but those that require effort, surrender and change I'll exclude or re-write to suit my schedule and agenda. After all, God certainly didn't mean we had to obey ALL of His Word, did He? It's not really commandments, but simply suggestions...right?

WRONG! God doesn't want us to omit one "jot" or "tittle" (Matthew 5:18). We are called to carefully walk in obedience to every command, not exaggerating or eliminating anything. We must adhere to every requirement, dotting every "i" and crossing every "t" as the expression goes. Although I had the freedom to edit this friend's paper, I do not have permission to edit God's Word. We must read it with the intent to fulfill it completely.

The beautiful benefit the Israelites received was the blessings He showered upon them when they complied. Their choice to obey brought rewards. God promised to richly provide when they walked in His ways. In Christ, now we are not under the Old Covenant, but because of Jesus we are positionally blessed. There are still consequences for disobedience, but unlike the Israelites, under the New Covenant the curse is gone. Moses and the people of God faced a clear cause and effect relationship with God. We rejoice today in one of mercy and grace. Our followship is motivated by love.

God still sets the standard for our worship and obedience, not our human opinion. How I pray the Lord will keep me faithful in the reading and sharing of His Word. May I not look at Scripture to make editorial corrections, but instead, in my obedience, may I allow the Divine Editor to use His Word to refine my life and change my character to reflect Christ.

The Danger of Abundance

"When you have eaten your fill, be sure to praise the LORD your God for the good land He has given you. But that is the time to be careful! Beware that in your plenty you do not forget the LORD your God..." Deuteronomy 8:10-11a

I have friends who yearly have a one-word focus to mark the 365 days before them. I used to do it. I only recall two words the Lord ever seemed to impress. One was "Pride" (like that was a fun year), and the other "Remember". I haven't participated in this annual themed pursuit in years, but I have a friend whose current word is "Abundance".

I still remember the day she shared it with me. On the surface it seems like such a great word. Who doesn't want abundance? It's defined as possessing a very large quantity. It implies plentifulness and prosperity. To be in abundance means you actually have more than you need, an oversufficiency. The problem with this ample supply is that it can usher in feelings of self-sufficiency.

In fairness, I don't believe my friend was suggesting she wanted to accumulate more. She is a minimalist by nature. She loves the Lord with all her heart, soul and mind. As I've been praying for her abundance, I've been asking the Lord for bountiful, rich, spiritual growth as well as protection from self-reliance. Jesus promises believers an abundant life in John 10:10, and I know that experiencing the presence of His exceedingly more is her heart's desire. The abundance of experiencing God and knowing Him better may bring more pain than prosperity. God's definition of abundance will always result in Christlikeness. However, the truth remains that there are dangers that accompany the blessings of the Lord. 

God, through Moses, cautioned the Israelites that when the Lord brought them into the good land He was giving them, to be certain to remember the Source. He warned them against the pride that often accompanies achievement. "Remember the LORD your God. He is the One who gives you power to be successful". (Deut 8:18a) Anything we attain is always because the hand of the Lord is upon us.

You see, the danger of forgetting to recognize and praise God because of abundance is the temptation to attribute success solely to human effort or merit. There's nothing the enemy loves more than an "I did it" mentality. 

Ten years ago I noticed how often a seven-word slogan kept appearing on social media. It was on t-shirts, wall hangings, bracelets and mugs. "She believed she could so she did." Too many "she's" in there for me. Anything we are able to do is only through the grace and enabling of God in us. It's not about us. "I believe God can and He does!"

Let's guard ourselves from crediting our own resources and ability for abundance. Remember God and His faithfulness. Pray for your heart to remain humble and don't forget to praise Him. May we pray with the Psalmist, "You LORD are all I have, and You give me all I need; my future is in Your hands." (Psalm 16:5)