Healing Words

"The heart of the godly thinks carefully before speaking..." Proverbs 15:28a

There is a saying I'm sure we are all familiar with that goes: "Think before you speak." It is important to consider our words before responding to another's comments or entering into a conversation. Careless answers can cause harm. 

My husband could have written this proverb. He thinks long and hard about all things before speaking, often to my impatient frustration. I remember when our son was young, Chris would ask his dad a question, and as the response from his father lingered, I'd watch our son open his mouth, about to add to the inquiry, filling the silent gap. My look from across the table would try and stop him. Any interruption would delay the reply. Gord is never in a hurry to speak.

It is not only what we say that is important, but how we say it. In fact, our delivery can have more of an impact than the words themselves. It is why text can be misunderstood when we are missing the tone. Innocent emails can be misinterpreted easily without any intentional, hurtful implication. The sender and receiver can be on two different wavelengths without hearing the intonation of the voice and seeing body language. We speak with more than our vocal cords.

My first full-time job, right out of High School, was working in the Children's Department of a local Library. I loved that job! I had always wanted to be "Marion the Librarian" from "The Music Man" production. The Head of our Department would post our work schedules monthly. Every now and then something would come up when I, or my co-workers, would need to ask for a shift change. There was one gal who rarely had her request fulfilled. She would march into the boss's office, speaking of the modified schedule as a "done deal". Her demands were not received with favour. I, on the other hand, would approach our boss with humility, willing to pick up extra shifts, offering to even work Saturday if my proposal could be arranged without too much difficulty. I was never refused.

A well-chosen word, whether of encouragement, direction, correction, rebuke, comfort or sympathy can be healing and life-giving. Sometimes in the pause to ponder what to say we will even discover silence might speak the best. I will confess that over the years the Lord has instructed me more and more to remain quiet. We do not need to engage in every discussion. Often the most valuable word is the one not spoken. There are many times I would love to jump into a conversation to recount a similar situation as the one being shared, but in doing so, would it shift focus away from another? Sometimes holding our tongue prevents heartache. The word might be right, but the timing might be wrong. Listening well is part of thinking carefully before speaking. There is a deeper understanding that can flow beyond audible communication. Comfortable silences can have a power that speak louder. Tender, loving care has its own language. Steven Wright wrote, "The best kind of friend is the kind you can sit on a porch and swing with, never say a word, and then walk away feeling like it was the best conversation you've ever had." 

Last summer my friend Bev Foster released a CD entitled, "Hope Seeds". She wrote every song after a season of deep intimacy with the Lord. I'm reminded of the lyrics to "Healing Words". The song affirms how life-giving, compassionate words can spring from broken places. Careful words, spoken purposefully, can bless a sister and forgive a brother. These words are so much more than saccharine platitudes, flowing like a gentle stream bringing a calm presence. Bev writes that our words can be a channel of profound refreshment, as we take the time to allow God to use our voices as an instrument of peace, love, care, truth, and hope.

Won't you choose to think carefully before speaking, sharing words that heal hearts with His love today.

"Hope Seeds" CD, Bev Foster, Producer Philip Janz, copyright 2023

Stay Home!

"'You have indeed defeated Edom, and you are proud of it. But be content with your victory and stay at home! Why stir up trouble that will only bring disaster on you and people of Judah?'" 2 Kings 14:10

Some people just don't know when to leave well enough alone. Feeling smug in a recent success they want more, aiming for the jugular when they should have held still. Like the lyrics from the song Kenny Rogers made famous, they need to know when to walk away, and know when to run.

Feeling confident in his victory against Edom, Amaziah, king of Judah, decides to incite war with Jehoash, the king of Israel. Jehoash, displaying far more sense than the southern king, replies with both wisdom and diplomacy. Using an illustration, he attempts to counsel Amaziah to give up this foolish notion and stay home. Bible scholar Russell Dilday describes the little story this way: "The thistle, imagining himself to be equal with the cedar, presumptuously suggested a marriage alliance between them. The difference between the two was made obvious when a wild beast passed through and crushed the thistle underfoot. Of course the beast was powerless to injure the cedar."

Jehoash is trying to spare Amaziah from facing a battle that not only he will lose, but which will bring disaster on the people of Judah as well. Sometimes we don't pause to realize how our actions will impact others. We rush ahead without thinking how we won't be the only casualty of war.

With great accomplishment comes great danger. Being cocky and overly confident can be to our peril. Solomon expressed it this way in Proverbs 16:18, "Pride goes before destruction, and haughtiness before a fall." I think it's true that most people handle failure better than they do success. Albert Einstein, one of the greatest and well known scientists of all times once said, "Try not to be a man of success, but rather try to become a man of value."

Don't misunderstand. It's not that success in itself is bad, it just needs to be handled and lived out with humility. Success should be, and needs to be celebrated, but it cannot be coveted. The bottom line is that any achievement we reach is ultimately from the hand of God. Asaph writes in Psalm 75:5 that it is the Lord who chooses who will rise and who will fall.

Success has the potential to harm relationships. When our son was in public school, Report Card Days were always anticipated with great rejoicing! Christopher worked hard and his marks reflected his efforts. Before he left for school on these mornings, even prior to knowing any final grade, a restaurant was always chosen for our dinner celebration. We would also remind Christopher not to look at his results until he arrived home. He could pull the report out far enough to make certain the correct one was in his envelope (we learned that one by experience), but he was not to remove it, discuss or compare it with his peers. It is too easy to brag and play the "better than" game. If you don't have access to the pawns, you can't be a player. This protected Chris from comparison, and I believe aided in keeping his spirit humble.

Success most often has a cost, and for Amaziah, his rash rush into war resulted in defeat, destruction, disbursement and duress. When we digest success well, we will understand the truth in what God cautioned the Israelites in Deuteronomy 8:9-10, and never be found saying, "I have achieved this wealth with my own strength and energy." Instead we will "Remember the LORD your God. He is the One who gives you power to be successful..." 

Let's avoid running ahead and being the cause of needless battles. There is enough trouble in this world without stirring up more on our own. Sometimes the best advice is to just stay home!

Eliminate the "But"

"Nonetheless the LORD said to Jehu, 'You have done well in following my instructions to destroy the family of Ahab...' But Jehu did not obey the Law of the LORD, the God of Israel, with all his heart. He refused to turn from the sins that Jeroboam had led Israel to commit." 2 Kings 10:30-31

As a teenager I remember singing, as well as doing American Sign Language to a song entitled "All of me". The lyrics included this commitment: "All of me, not a part but all of me, All the heart and soul of me, Jesus I surrender." This is an "all-in" for Jesus song! No holding back! It is complete commitment. This is the response Christ still desires from His children today.

Jehu, the king over Israel, was only a "part of me" follower. He was willing to go so far, but not all the way. He placed a limit on his obedience to the Lord. He worked hard to remove the family of Ahab and Jezebel because it was profitable for him, but his zeal diminished when his efforts lacked personal compensation. His obedience was motivated by pride as he sought his own glory. If God's ask was of interest to him, he complied, but if not, he had no desire. It is commendable that he fought against idolatry, but he did not do so with all his heart.

Like Jehu there are those who call themselves believers, but their adherence to the Word of God has a breaking point. Where they agree, they "Amen" and "High Five", but if a teaching rubs them the wrong way it is either ignored or disobeyed. 

One year I was part of a Bible study group working through David Platt's book, "Radical". In reality, this call to authentic Christian living, walking in obedience to all of God's word, is not extreme, it is what God expects of each one of us. It is the "normal" way of life for the one claiming the name of Christ. This book was not received well by all the attendees. It was perceived by some as asking too much and demanding the impossible. With God's expectations viewed as ridiculous, many dismissed the content, or dismissed the class and stopped coming. They weren't rejecting a human author, but the divine One.

God's standard is perfection and His goal for us is holiness. It becomes especially difficult when we view His Word as restricting. We can think we know what is best, but Jesus does not fit neatly into our pre-existing beliefs. We are called to adjust to His.

Think of all the controversial topics throughout the Bible. God's infallible word only becomes disputable when we don't agree. If His calling seems unreasonable, we abandon His command. Thinking our way is better, we refuse to allow the Lord to reframe our thoughts. A real test of our love and followship with the Lord is when we comply even when we don't concur.

I challenge you to think of a hard teaching in scripture. Up until now have you been responding like Jehu? Have you refused to obey the Law of the Lord with all your heart? Is your obedience dependent on your agreement with His absolute truth? He is not enforcing but He is imploring, knowing what is best. The choice is yours. It's time to eliminate the 'but' and walk in full obedience to all that God is requiring. There is joy in following Jesus all the way.

Do You Know Peace?

"'What do you know about peace?'" 2 Kings 9:18

Peace. The state prevailing during the absence of war. Harmonious relations; freedom from disputes. The absence of mental stress or anxiety. A treaty to cease hostilities. The general security of public places. These are all dictionary definitions, but they have omitted the One alone who can bring peace...God

We can know peace with God, (Romans 5:1), and the peace of God, (Philippians 4:6-7).

I was listening to a message on CD one day when the speaker quoted probably one of the most famous "peace" scriptures in the Bible. The one I gave reference to above from Philippians.

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

As my heart thrilled with the expectation and hope of experiencing such peace, one woman listening with me, in resignation exclaimed, "I wish". The tone in which these words were spoken brought me to tears. Such defeat. Accepting anxiety as inevitable, her words were uttered in despair. She had given up on the possible presence of peace. This was an elderly, godly, Christian woman. A woman who had devoted her life to following the Lord. I hear her voice in my head yet today. My heart still aches for her loss of belief in God's promise. What did she know about peace? Sadly, nothing.

For those of you who know me well, you are aware that I struggle with many fears and insecurities, yet my heart thrills and gets so excited at God's promised peace. Worry is not my portion. It may appear to be my passion at times, but it is not God's plan for me.

God is asking us all today, "What do you know about peace?" Have you first of all met the God of all peace and surrendered your life to Him? And, if you have peace with God, have you experienced the peace of God? He desperately longs to be that peace to you today.

Once upon a time, there was a king who offered a painting contest requesting the artists draw pictures of peace. Three of the best painters in the kingdom responded to this opportunity. When the time came to unveil the masterpieces, a banquet was held and many people came. As the first painting was uncovered, everyone marveled as they saw beautiful scenery of fields with the outstretched horizon as its' backdrop. The people then looked with awe on the second submission, a gorgeous sunset. The king couldn’t wait any longer as he ordered for the third and final painting to be unveiled. Murmuring filled the room as the king was shocked by the image before him. Despair marked the king's countenance as he looked upon the dark clouds and raging storm of the last painting. The artist had captured the furry of the wind as it whipped black rain clouds laced with streaks of lightning. The foreboding sky was filled with the power of the furious thunderstorm. “This has nothing to do with peace,” he thought. But suddenly, he noticed something that made him leap from his throne and stand in front of the painting. He smiled and said, “Place this piece in the master’s bedroom so that I will always be reminded of peace.”

What the king saw after he gazed on the darkness of the painting was a small mother bird with her babies all nestled under her wings, sleeping. Now that's peace. Not the absence of the storm, but peace in the middle of the storm.

"You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in You. Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD, the LORD, is the Rock eternal." Isaiah 44:2-3 

Do you know peace?

How's Your Eyesight?

"'Don't be afraid!' Elisha told him. 'For there are more on our side than on theirs!' Then Elisha prayed, 'O LORD, open his eyes and let him see!' The LORD opened the young man's eyes, and when he looked up, he saw that the hillside around Elisha was filled with horses and chariots of fire." 2 Kings 6:16-17

Opening Facebook while making my coffee early this morning, one of the very first posts I read shared the following: "It's my middle of the night praise time. Allow me to share some tender moments. God opened my eyes to see His hand at work." This dear friend then listed several evidences of God's care for she and her family over the past weeks as they have endured a very difficult journey. The Lord revealed how her way has been marked with His grace and held in His care. Often this awakening to His presence and provision comes in the "middle of our nights". Amidst the trial and challenges we are walking God opens our eyes to see His hand at work.

Elisha the prophet had been repeatedly warning the king of Israel of the attack plans of the king of Aram. When he is discovered as the "secret informant", the king of Aram sends a great army on a mission to find and seize Elisha in order to silence him. Scripture says, "When the servant of the man of God got up early the next morning and went outside, there were troops, horses, and chariots everywhere. 'Oh, sir, what will we do now?' the young man cried to Elisha." It is into this situation and cry of distress that Elisha lifts a prayer to the Lord, asking that his servant's eyes be opened to see the help that God already had in place.

This is such an absolutely beautiful prayer. Elisha is such a caring prophet. We see this reflected in his actions that testify to the meaning of his name, "God saves." He provided for the physical health of others, he helped the poor widow and her two boys, he blessed a childless couple with a son, he healed Naaman of leprosy. Many of his miracles were personal, often touching lives one-by-one, bringing restoration. God led him to target the inner depth of each heart, to bring revelation.

In the tender and powerful prayer Elisha lifted to the Lord on behalf of his servant, the prophet longs for this young man to see the work of God. Oh, how many times have we asked a similar request? Lord, just let me see what You are doing. I'm frightened, alone, confused. Please show me that You are working on my behalf. Any little sign will do.

In an act of complete grace God does open the servant's eyes. The young man looks up to suddenly see the hillside filled with an army of God. Friends, our lives too are surrounded by the God of Hosts. Sometimes we just need better "eyesight".

During the years our son was growing up in our home, there was a picture that hung over his bed. It was a painting by Ron Dicianni entitled "Spiritual Warfare". With his little boy sound asleep, a father kneels beside his son's bed, head bowed in prayer. Behind him an open window reveals activity in the heavenlies. We glimpse angel armies at war, battling for the heart of the child as the Daddy's prayer is lifted. Prayer, the most powerful weapon in the battle.

We often do not have the ability to see the everyday war between the physical and spiritual realm, but God is working. There are things He is doing on our behalf even in this very moment. Elisha's young servant was terrified, thinking that life was lost.  Imagine his change of heart when God gave him spiritual eyes to see the divine support behind him and the victory before him. New hope was birthed.

In our "what will we do now" moments, Lord, open our eyes and let us see!

The Cost of A Calling

"And Elisha replied, 'Please let me inherit a double share of your spirit and become your successor.' 'You have asked a difficult thing,' Elijah replied." 2 Kings 2:9b-10a

I think we are all familiar with the phrase, "Be careful what you ask for". Sometimes we make a wish, only to discover in reality the attainment is not what we expected. The fulfillment of the desire turns out to be much different than we imagined. There is a reason why the stories of so many lottery winners conclude in bankruptcy and depression, with families divided. What we think we want most of all can fall short of our expectations and bring with it hardship.

Elijah is nearing death and Elisha was hungry for the gift he saw in Elijah. He desperately wanted what Elijah had, so much so, that he asked for a double portion of it. Elisha had already proven his loyalty to Elijah by refusing to leave him, displaying unwavering resolve, dedication and faithfulness. When Elijah encouraged him to leave, Elisha remained beside his leader, counselor and friend, resulting in Elijah issuing an invitation, "Tell me what I can do for you before I am taken away."

Elisha had seen firsthand how the Spirit of God was manifest through Elijah and he desired the same experience. Elisha's request was not just for a position, but for the power to fulfill his role as Elijah's successor. It was not a greedy request to ask for a "double portion", but an indication that he be regarded as the firstborn son, heir of his mentor's ministry.

Elijah's response helps put this earnest entreaty in perspective. "You have asked a difficult thing." Why does he describe it as difficult? You see, sometimes we only see the glory of a calling and not the grief that often accompanies it. The supernatural gift cannot be separated from the overwhelming trouble, intense opposition, unforeseen persecution and internal struggles that sometimes come with it.

We all want the certification without the classroom, the leadership role without the ladder climb, and the recognition without the effort. The outcomes we desire come wrapped in packages where the hardships are often hidden. We covet another's position dismissing the sleepless nights, loneliness, fear, doubt and insecurity that are part of the calling.

I read recently that the gifts God gives us usually come with a high degree of responsibility and some less than desirable side effects. Elijah wanted to make sure his beneficiary wasn't blind to all that his desire would include. God's work incites God's enemies. If we are only looking for the benefits, it won't be long before we walk away discouraged and beaten. But those who consider the cost and desire the Giver more than the gifts will continue in the strength of the Lord, trusting fully in Him.

I won't deny that in the past I have longed for a greater presence in ministry. At first my motives may have been selfish, to be recognized, valued, remembered. Over the years the Lord has graciously opened doors for me to be personally connected with a number of very well-known Christian speakers and artists. I have become a confidant to several. You would know their names but in treasuring their friendships I also respect their privacy. As they have each opened up their lives to me, I receive the privilege of seeing what the stage hides. In their vulnerability they have invited me "behind the scenes" and opened their hearts to the hardships that walk hand-in-hand with ministry. I now fully see that the Lord has been protecting me from "a difficult thing". Everything isn't always as it seems.

I once heard the story of a senior Pastor counselling a young Bible student who was longing to enter the pastorate. The elder man's advice went something like this: If you can do anything else, follow that dream, but if the Lord has you in His grip so firmly that you can pursue no other vocation, than run towards this calling with passion, never looking back. Such wisdom. Chase after God Himself, praying for strength to carry out your calling at any cost.

A Jehoshaphat Friend

"Then Jehoshaphat added, 'But first let's find out what the LORD says.'" 1 Kings 22:5

I treasure a Jehoshaphat friend. When faced with a decision, how many of us actually seek to find out what the Lord says first? Is going to God in prayer our primary response? Do we spend time looking for direction in His Word? Or, do we think we know what is best, disregard any counsel the Lord may send, and move forward with our plans our way? We need to consult with the Lord in all things, and it is the "Jehoshaphats" in our life that remind us to seek God first. 

King Jehoshaphat desired that he and King Ahab seek counsel from God regarding an alliance in battle. King Ahab of Israel called 400 prophets together whom he knew would tell him exactly what he wanted to hear. They were prophets who were faithful to King Ahab, not faithful to God. When they all responded in agreement, encouraging war because God would give them victory, King Jehoshaphat still asked if a prophet of the LORD could be found to respond to the same inquiry. The King of Israel was hesitant to call on Micaiah because this prophet of the LORD never gave King Ahab the answers he wanted to hear. Micaiah was a truth teller who was faithful to only say what the Lord instructed him to speak.

I think many of us are more like King Ahab than we would like to admit. When we are needing instruction or advice, we go first to those who we know will give the response we want to hear. In the back of our mind, we know the path we want to take, so we first inquire of those friends who we are confident will point us in the direction we want to go.

Then there are those who will just agree with anything we say. I'm not 100% certain if these people just don't have any backbone, or if they are bending low for fear of losing a friendship. They nod in agreement to anything. I know a woman like this. You can say two completely different conflicting ideas and she will shake her head yes to both. I honestly have no idea where she stands on anything. 

The friend I treasure most is the one I know will be honest. She won't just "tickle our ears" with what we want to hear, but as she sees us seeking answers from other sources, this friend will come to us, as King Jehoshaphat did, and keep reminding us, "But first let's find out what the LORD says."

This friend will also hold us accountable to truth we know. We all can hunt for scripture that can side with almost any choice we want to make. We can put the em-PHA-sis on the wrong syll-A-ble or take text out of context so it will speak in agreement to our desires. A seeker of God's Word will receive the hard, listen to the unwanted and walk in the way of obedience even when it is walking an opposite road.

A Jehoshaphat friend will remind us that we find out God's will for us through time in prayer and in His Word. Although there are stories of those who flip open God's Word and land on verses that give clarity, most often as we are daily committed to a schedule and plan, regularly studying scripture, He leads us as we read. It is in the routine of everyday life that God comes to us as He did David while tending sheep, Elisha while plowing a field, and Gideon while pressing wine.

Above all, this friend cares more about your relationship with the Lord than about your friendship. She will risk being misunderstood for the sake of your heart and your spiritual growth. A Jehoshaphat friend will always, ALWAYS point you towards God. Praise God for these friends. They will keep pressing you in to hear from the Lord and encourage you to take steps of obedience.

Deeply Rooted

"...the godly have deep roots." Proverbs 12:3b

Lately I have been doing a lot of weeding. As the snow melted and the grass started turning green, dandelions began appearing as daily, constant, unwelcomed guests. I had three choices in their removal. The first was just to let the lawnmower chop off their heads. Yes, the evidence of their presence would be gone for a temporary time, but they would return. The second was to use a stand-up weeder. This is a much easier device for the one doing the exterminating. While remaining upright, a claw-like apparatus is plunged into the ground surrounding the unwanted plant, which, when maneuvered correctly, yanks the weed up and out. The problem with this tool is that it often doesn't work on first attempt. Sometimes the lawn is left with multiple, large holes because of repeated efforts. The final method is to get down on my knees, and using a proper hand-held utensil, slowly, precisely and individually, dig out the roots of each undesired culprit. I'll tell you, some of those dandelions have no intention of leaving. Their roots are deep and stubborn. And that's just a little dandelion. Now let's consider larger plants.

I read that some oaks and pines have been recorded as having roots that extend up to 400 feet! No hand-held instrument is going to move that evergreen! Apparently, the deepest roots are called "taproots" and they anchor the tree. For most plants, deeper is better. Shallow roots usually extend laterally, but without going deeper, their chance of reaching water in times of drought are minimized. The hidden power of any tree is the depth of their roots.

The same is true for Christ-followers. Our hidden power is in our roots. What enables us to have strength to stand through drought and storm is the soil we are rooted in, how deeply we are grounded and how well we are watered. Just as botanists can encourage root growth for the survival and productivity of a plant, there is much we as believers can do to help develop deep roots in the Lord.

It is in the hidden places, alone with the Lord where we cultivate growth. As we abide in Him, taking root downward, we bear fruit upward. Sustainable life is developed through relationship with Christ and understanding how immeasurably we are loved by God. Without this anchor, many other things will compete to unearth our foundation. "Let your roots grow deep down in Him, and let your lives be built on Him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness" (Colossians 2:7). Paul tells us in Ephesians 3 that we must be "rooted and grounded in love", having "strength to comprehend with all the saints the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge."

And there's the other key. In order to remain rooted and hyper-stand in today's culture, we need others. It's the "with all the saints" that reinforces our roots. A fascinating truth in the plant world is that it is the combination of a variety of roots helps them grow. The diversity of roots intermingled together enables each plant to grow stronger individually. 

I heard a beautiful illustration recently of a group of tourists who decided to cross the Jordan River. The river can often be raging and flowing beyond anyone's ability to withstand its power. The entire group held hands, and if anyone began falling, there were arms on either side lifting them up. We need to be rooted with the church. God created us to grow with other believers. If we are lacking the nourishment and oxygen we require to grow deep, it may be because we are trying to be self-sustaining. 

May our roots remain secure, "the planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified." (Isaiah 61:3)

Unexpected Sources

"Then the LORD said to Elijah....'eat what the ravens bring you, for I have commanded them to bring you food.' So Elijah did as the LORD told him..." 1 Kings 17:2, 4b-5a

To demonstrate God's power over Baal, the god of weather, the prophet Elijah has just spoken a forecast of draught to King Ahab. After speaking this word in the power and strength of the Lord, God instructs Elijah to head east and hide in the Kerith Brook. The brook will supply water to drink and ravens will be his "Uber Eats". God chose these birds as couriers to deliver bread and meat to Elijah morning and evening.

Ravens are considered unclean. They are scavengers, and though not truly classified as birds of prey, they have been granted the title of "honourary raptors". In my brief study of the bird, I read that they were created more for holding and grasping than killing. Isn't that interesting. Ravens were designed with a specific ability to fulfill the very task God has placed before them. Every bite that Elijah ate came from the beak of a foul fowl. What if Elijah had rejected this provision, passing judgement on them because of their reputation, being portrayed as creatures who bring death and darkness? God can use anything and anyone. For just a moment, I want us to consider how spiritual food can come via unusual vessels too.

As a child just entering my early teens, the early morning routine in our home was always hectic. Being awakened by 6am every day, my twin sister and I took turns, each having an hour of piano practice before heading to school. The other constant was the television tuned to "The PTL Club". Just hearing that name may conjure up a variety of responses. This broadcast from Heritage Village, South Carolina, primarily hosted by Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker, featured a variety of evangelists including Rev. Dr. Billy Graham as well as many Christian artists. Scandal, fraud and conspiracy are now synonymous with their names, but back in the late 1970's and early 80's God used the music and teaching from this program to ignite a passion for Him in the lives of two teenage girls as they daily headed off to High School. My sister and I still talk about it today. The Lord used this ministry so powerfully in our lives that we financially supported it monthly and enjoyed several holidays on the grounds of this iconic Christian theme park. 

I use this example, not to defame any names further, but to give personal testimony that it is possible for God to bring His Word to us through unconventional methods. Flamboyant and charismatic, the Bakker's are just one example in a line-up of Christian personalities who God has used outside "the norm". They now may have faced moral failure, bankruptcy or acknowledgment of involvement in other illegal acts, generating outrage and controversy, yet I will never dismiss, and always be grateful for the impact the PTL Club had in drawing me closer to the Lord.

Elijah obeyed the Lord and ate the manna He sent via an unexpected messenger. We certainly need to be discerning, but we must also not be too quick to criticize any method God uses to reach our hearts. Holding to traditional ideas may lead us to starvation. Long before the eventual exposure of shameful secrets surrounding Jim and Tammy Faye, our family ceased supporting the ministry. It broke my heart to watch as they began embracing unbiblical, ungodly ways, but it never diminished the time the Lord used them in my life.

Just recently I was enjoying an afternoon visit with a friend when she began listing names of Christian evangelists and teachers whom she felt have "fallen from grace". I can't deny that some names mentioned have chosen a pathway that has publicly exposed their sin, but if they are true believers, repentance will restore grace. Despite this, there is no denying that through their sharing of the gospel, God has used them to draw many to respond to His message of salvation. If God can use ravens, don't discount anyone from being commanded by God to provide what we need. Our role is to be obedient and eat, even if the "food" is served to us from unexpected sources.

The Voice of Truth

"But the old prophet answered, 'I am a prophet, too, just as you are. And an angel gave me this command from the LORD: 'Bring him home with you so he can have something to eat and drink.'" But the old man was lying to him. So they went back together, and the man of God ate and drank at the prophet's home." 1 Kings 13:18-19

There are some passages in scripture that perplex me. I accept them as truth, and I know God's ways are right, but it doesn't mean that I don't struggle sometimes with how the situations play out. Like the seemingly extreme punishment Uzzah received when he reached out in reflex to steady the Ark of the Covenant when the oxen stumbled during transport. Or Moses, after all those years of wandering and leading the people, not entering the Promised Land. And now, here is a man of God, who after being deceived by an old man claiming to be a prophet, is attacked and killed by a lion. I fully understand the explanation of all three, but they are hard lessons.

In today's text the man of God has fulfilled his mission to declare a message to King Jeroboam and when an invitation is extended for him to come to the King's palace for a meal, he confidently declares: "Even if you gave me half of everything you own, I would not go with you. I would not eat or drink anything in this place. For the LORD gave me this command: 'You must not eat or drink anything while you are there, and do not return to Judah by the same way you came.'" The man of God had been warned by the Lord that any association with Jeroboam or activity of fellowship in that place would be an act of condoning the King's idolatry.

Now comes the hard part. An old man, claiming to be a prophet, extends a similar invitation to the man of God, with a powerful disclaimer. He basically takes God's name in vain as he gives God claim to a word He never declared. This is where the story gets tricky. How would we respond in a similar situation? 

God speaks a direct word to us through scripture, or another avenue of delivery, and we know without a doubt what He desires of us. Then, someone comes with contradicting direction and attaches God's name to their message. Now what? For the sake of this illustration, like the prophet and the man of God, we will assume both parties are Christ-followers. How do we move forward with assurance when opposite ways are before us?

I remember when facing my first cancer journey and still in the middle of tests and appointments, two very dear ladies from the church came to me one Sunday evening as I was entering the building. Both of these women are so dear to me and I know them to be women of great faith. With conviction they shared with me that they had been praying, and they knew the Lord had told them that my health struggle would not end with a cancer diagnosis. I was hesitant. I did not embrace their word as God's word to me. You see, the Lord had already been speaking to my heart also and I was pretty certain they were incorrect. I know God can use other people to minister to us and give insight and clarity, but a voice of truth will be in agreement to what He has already spoken. Unlike the prophet who purposefully spoke a false word, I believe these ladies were sincere, but they were sincerely wrong. 

The prophet was trying to convince the man of God to disobedience. By identifying himself as a prophet, his title added an element of trust. Sadly, the man of God relents without any further seeking of the Lord. When we receive a first-hand command from God, I believe any subsequent changes will also come directly.

God will not tolerate compromise and disobedience among His children. How we constantly need to pray for discernment when faced with opposing views, especially within the body of believers. I'll be honest, I'm often leery of anyone who comes to me saying that God gave them a message for me. I'm not saying I don't listen to it, but I certainly don't instantly embrace it. I follow any such declaration up with prayer and time in God's Word. I fully believe that the Lord Himself will speak to me and confirm personally His desire for my life.

Dear Lord, please grant us clarity in the face of conflicting direction. May we always listen and obey the voice of Truth.

For Christ's Sake

"But for the sake of your father David..." 1 Kings 11:12a

In 1 Kings 11 we read how David's son Solomon turns his heart away from God. Scripture tells us that Solomon was "clearly instructed" by the LORD not to marry foreign women, yet he "insisted on loving them anyway." For all the wisdom Solomon held, he embraced patterns of living that blatantly and foolishly opposed God's instructions. The Lord sets out to tear the kingdom away from him and give it to another, but for the sake of Solomon's father David, God makes some special accommodations. Solomon's son Rehoboam will have the kingdom taken away from him, but God doesn't bring division in Solomon's lifetime for David's sake, because of the covenant He made with David.

This is not the only time in scripture we see this phrase, or one similar. Genesis 26:24 talks about blessing and multiplying descendants for the sake of Abraham. Multiple times throughout God's Word we read how God defended or delivered people, establishing and tearing down kingdoms for the sake of David (1 Kings 15:4; 2 Kings 8:19; 19:34; 20:6; Isaiah 37:35). For the sake of Jacob, God chose Cyrus (Isaiah 45:4). For the sake of the Israelites, God's chosen people, He reproved kings, remembered His people and preserved a remnant (Psalm 105:14; Isaiah 63:17; 65:8). For the sake of Zion and Jerusalem God will not rest until there is restoration (Isaiah 62:1). For the sake of Judah, Babylon will be captured and judged (Isaiah 43:14). For the sake of all Christ-followers, the time of great tribulation will be shortened (Matthew 24:22; Mark 13:20). We read of enduring persecution for the sake of hope (Acts 28:20). For the sake of the patriarchs and His love for His people, God has not given up on national and ethnic Israel (Romans 11:28). God speaks to Jesus, not for Christ's sake, but for ours (John 12:30). Paul writes of serving others, for their sake, so the grace of God is seen and glory is lifted to Him (2 Corinthians 4:15). The message of the gospel is proclaimed for the sake of each one of us, with God making Himself manifest in many ways so that we can come to believe God and receive Jesus (1 Peter 1:20).

Do you see how often, even just through these few examples, that God acts toward one for the sake of another? Much of His activity towards the next generation is the fulfillment of covenants made to the now generation, promises spoken to those who walked in obedience with God. Our choices today and our lives matter, impacting those who follow after us. 

However, before you think anything good you do will be the reason your descendants are blessed, we must remember that all the favour God shows towards us is for Christ's sake and for the covenant God made to His Son. We come to God only and always on the merit of Christ. It was Christ, the One and Only who left the splendor of heaven for our sakes, suffered, bled and died. He alone bridges the gap between God and man. It is only for Christ's sake that we are accepted in the Beloved as the Father looks on us and sees Jesus in our eyes. We are forgiven for Christ's sake (John 2:12).

Still, scripture tells us, liked Solomon, David and Rehoboam, our children's children will benefit as a result of how we live our lives. We need to be intentional in our obedience and increasing in holiness because it will impact those who come after us. God interweaves mercy and judgment, blessings and consequences that reflect His commitment to His covenants and His consideration for the legacy of faith that has walked before us. Let's live well for the sake of Christ.

Evidence of God's Presence

"...the glorious presence of the LORD filled the Temple of the LORD." 1 Kings 8:11b

David's son, King Solomon, along with the skill of talented craftsman, has completed the construction of the Temple of the LORD. After the priests carry the Ark of the Lord's Covenant into the inner sanctuary, the Most Holy Place, a thick cloud fills the Temple of the LORD. This is the cloud of God's very presence. It so completely fills this sacred space that the priests are unable to continue their service. It must have been an absolutely incredible and breathtaking experience. Imagine, God's presence so intense that work had to cease. God's extreme presence rendered "normal" work impossible!

As believers, each one of us is a temple of the Lord, and His presence abides in us. Have we allowed His filling to envelop us completely, and are we even aware of His indwelling? Is there any evidence that the God of the universe has totally invaded our lives? What does a life look like that is filled with His presence?

Lives that are marked by the presence of God are activated for impact! By the power of the Holy Spirit, the Lord's presence in us is made manifest in ways that extend further than our natural ability. I just recently read a thought that encouraged believers they can walk into any room with confidence, not because we ourselves have any greatness, but we carry within us the presence of our Holy God and therefore have great value, being chosen, worthy and enough.

A person fully surrendered to the Lord and filled with His presence experiences promptings and providential encounters that have nothing to do with themselves, and everything to do with God. They look on happenings with awe, knowing absolutely nothing but the presence of God within them could begin to explain their responses, reactions or situations. The two words they repeat over and over as they shake their head in wonder, "only God, only God!"

When we are filled to the full measure with Christ, the fruit of His Spirit reaches out to others, accepting the hard, embracing the unlovable, finding contentment in less, turning the cheek, giving without restraint and holding unwaveringly to hope. God in us empowers us to live beyond ourselves.

Sadly, most of our lives are marked by our own presence. In a world filled with many reigning "self's" with limited power, we attempt little and accomplish less. The presence of God is more than a theory that is believed, it is a truth to be lived. When God's presence fills a life, the atmosphere changes. It can't remain the same. David tells us in Psalm 16:11 that living in His presence brings fulness of joy. Evidence of God's presence is a life characterized by His joy expressed through us.

Another measurement of His presence is rest. In Exodus God told Moses, "My presence will go with you and I will give you rest" (Exodus 33:14). A supernatural rest testifies to God's presence in us. We aren't striving and trying, rushing and weary, we are believing and trusting. Anxiety, worry, doubt, fear and concern are indicators that we have forgotten God and His presence in us.

God's indwelling should be visible to others. Our lives should be different. He empowers us in a way that is uncommon. Both believers and unbelievers who watch our lives should be remarking, as did the army commander to Abraham, "God is with you in everything you do" (Genesis 21:22). That defines a life filled with His presence.

It comes down to this. It is impossible for God to just give us part of His presence. He's an "all in" God. What is possible is for us to be living with less than He has made available because we have not yielded all of ourselves to all of Him. Will you take that step of full surrender today?

Two Voices

"The woman named Folly is brash...'Come in with me,' she urges the simple. To those who lack good judgment, she says, 'Stolen water is refreshing; food eaten in secret tastes the best!' " Proverbs 9:13a, 16-17

Why is it that as soon as we are told we can't do something, that's what we set our mind on accomplishing? I'm not just referencing an act of disobedience, but even a task that someone says is beyond our ability, immediately we feel a defiance rise up within us and we want to prove them wrong. In our natural self we often have a proclivity towards opposing what is best for what feels good. Some of this tenacity can be profitable as it pushes us to greatness, but without good judgment it can also lead to great disaster.

Throughout the book of Proverbs, with its cast of many characters, two are lead players; wisdom and folly. Both call to us from the streets and we must exercise discernment in identifying each voice and knowing who to follow. We may think it should be obvious, but folly can be subtle. Wisdom leads a disciplined life, but folly leads to danger. When presented with choices, as Christ-followers we need to consider our options and come to not only a sensible conclusion, but one that walks in step with scripture after seeking God's will.

Two red flags stand out to me in the verses shared above: stolen and secret. Just speaking those words sounds devious and disobedient. Miss Folly actually identifies the deeds themselves using wisdom, truthfully portraying the acts accurately. She in honesty describes the activity as that of a thief, needing to be concealed and strictly confidential. Both are involving hidden and forbidden, yet she lures with excitement and enticement. She herself recognizes that only those who lack sound judgment and who are gullible, will respond to her call. Her invitation is embraced by the foolish, the senseless and those without understanding.

Without wisdom, we cannot perceive the future and avoid the pain. We run towards what feels good in the moment, dismissing the harm and consequence. It's not that we are always unaware of the impact of chasing after folly's call, but in that moment of decision we just want the enjoyment of it too deeply.

I know this passage is specifically dealing with the vulnerability that accompanies seduction and becoming captive to the power of lust in sensual pleasure, but it can apply to any forbidden fruit and shameful hiding. Think back to Genesis. Nothing has truly changed. As wisdom is often personified as the voice of God, folly found its first voice through a serpent. Under the misguided guise of truth, the enemy brought deception. You see, in order to deceive you have to first know right from wrong so that you can present falsehood in a way that makes it desirous. It really takes great skill to seduce and flatter in a way that it is received and not rejected. That is why, the only way to counter the attraction of temptation is through divine counsel and the power of the Holy Spirit.

"Refreshing" and "best" quickly turns to destruction and death once pursued. As folly laughs at those she conquers, wisdom cries and waits, knowing the outcome could have been avoided. Yet, despite all of folly's cleaver schemes, she forgets one thing; the current consequence doesn't have to be the end. Yes, sin has unpleasant outcomes, some that last a lifetime, but it doesn't have to impact all eternity. For all who have followed the pathway of sin for a season, there is a Redeemer. The next choice doesn't have to echo all the previous ones. Don't forget, wisdom is also still calling from the street and longs for your next move to reflect change.

There's still time. Whose voice will you listen to today?

The Value of a Set Table

"Wisdom has built her house; she has carved its seven columns. She has prepared a great banquet, mixed the wines, and set the table." Proverbs 9:1-2

There are so many verses in the book of Proverbs that remind me of my mom. My mother loved keeping her home beautiful. Although not rich in worldly wealth, she found ways to decorate and enhance the rooms of our family dwelling, reflecting her bent toward the Victorian style. Mom loved gold embellishments and floral wallpaper. Her favourite pieces of furniture generally were purchased from the Bombay Company, a store whose original passion was to connect art and elegance with superior craftsmanship. Those words so aptly describe the house I was blessed to call home.

In Proverbs we see that wisdom has built her house and strengthened its support. A feast has been prepared for the guests and is ready for their arrival. The table is set, not only with all that is needed to nourish physically, but also with grace, peace, joy and love. Nothing has been overlooked in the excellency of preparation.

This too reflects my mother. The dining room table at my childhood home was always set. It wasn't for our use, but for any visitors who may stop by unannounced. Dad was constantly bringing home "strays" (the word my twin sister and I used to describe the sudden appearance of any random person Dad would have met during his day and invited home with him to enjoy dinner with us). It never seemed to bother mom. Her table was set.

I can't say we always had a "great banquet", (mom's least favourite role was meal preparation, and hence it has not been on my list of top 10 duties either), but we never left the table hungry. Whether it was "some kind of meat" (my sister and I honestly couldn't always identify it), or a meal dad picked up on his way home from work, our tummies were always full.

Mom lived prepared. She was ready at a moment's notice to host others whether for a meal or a cup of tea and sweets. A tray with cups and saucers, sugar dish, creamer, cookies or squares on a china serving plate under plastic wrap were waiting to be offered to any guests who arrived. Like the ten virgins with the lamps described in the book of Matthew, mom would never run out of "oil" because she lived secure, knowing that sudden changes or interruptions, delays or surprises wouldn't cause her any alarm. She was prepared to make a future outcome possible.

I know that this wisdom in Proverbs is pointing towards the insight that encourages us to be prepared for the great supper in the kingdom of heaven by responding to Christ's invitation of salvation, but I want to apply this practically to our day to day lives right now. Hospitality and opening our homes to others is becoming more and more rare, yet throughout scripture we see how vital the ministry of welcoming others can be.

In her excellent Bible study, "A Table in the Wilderness", Lina Abujamra, highlights the importance of tables traced throughout God's Word, emphasizing how the Lord uses shared fellowship at gatherings over meals to provide rescue, mercy, belonging, satisfaction, filling, remembrance and celebration. The offering of food is really a means to an end. Tables welcome us not only into the lives of others, but into the presence of God.

When you invite someone into your home, you invite them into your life. God has divinely ordained the setting of tables as blessings in a world that is too often lonely and isolated. A home that is a hub of intentional hospitality has the ability to make all who enter feel accepted from the moment their foot steps over the threshold. It's the authentic, humble, ordinary offering of cookies and coffee, hot dogs and burgers that shares Jesus in a way that challenges the degrees of the most learned.

Is your table set?

Watching and Waiting

"Joyful are those who listen to me, watching for me daily at my gates, waiting for me outside my home!" Proverbs 8:34

Oh how I anticipated his arrival! Excitement filled my heart! It was almost time! Clock watching. Window peering. Any second now his car should be appearing. Suddenly my eyes caught sight of the one for whom I'd been waiting. A squeal of delight accompanied the sound of running footsteps as I hurried to swing the door open. In just a moment I would be giggling with delight, held in the arms of the one I was longing to see. Daddy was home.

This memory flooded back this morning as I read the verse from Proverbs. Watching daily at the gates. Waiting at the doors. As a child, every afternoon was the same. The expectancy never waned. It never became routine or tiresome. Neither did the pleasure found in the moment of first sight. Happiness swells in my heart even now as I close my eyes and relive the absolute elation of welcoming daddy home.

I'm sorry if your upbringing was such that you find it difficult to relate to my illustration of the joy and anticipation of your father arriving home, but possibly you have seen the following on a news broadcast. The Royal Family is going to appear on the balcony of Buckingham Palace. Sometimes days in advance, people begin to line the streets and press into the gates outside their home. Fans willingly forfeit sleep and comfort to catch a glimpse of those they love and hold in such high regard. Or maybe, for you it would be a television personality or musician.

Are we as eager to learn from the wisdom of God's Word? Do we anticipate seeing Jesus with as much joy? Do we look for His presence in our life day to day? How would watching daily at the gates and waiting outside wisdom's home look today?

Eugene Peterson's translation, The Message, reframes the verse this way: "Blessed the man, blessed the woman, who listen to me, awake and ready for me each morning, alert and responsive as I start my day's work."

Proverbs is admonishing us that these are the efforts we need to expend to pursue the wisdom that God offers. Do we begin our day with the anticipation of meeting and seeing the Lord in His Word? Do we daily spend time with Him? Are we, as Peterson expresses it, "awake and ready", "alert and responsive" to God's activity all around us? Have we neglected the time it takes to watch at the gates and wait at the doors?

Throughout the book of Proverbs, wisdom is personified as always being at God's side, from the beginning of creation. Wisdom shifts from being a concept, to something very personal and attainable. We don't just respond to an idea or theory when we walk in wisdom's way, but we are tuning our ears to a voice that is offering guidance. The intense desire with which we approach receiving this instruction should be accompanied with delight, and when we follow wisdom's ways, the result is living joyfully.

I want to be awake and ready, alert and responsive. Lord, fill my heart with a greater passion to watch and wait. Renew my excitement as I pull back the curtains of complacency and increase my anticipation for the sound of Your footsteps in my life. Teach me to discern Your voice and submit to Your ways with a willing heart. May Your wisdom govern my days and may I diligently give attention to all Your instruction, resulting in a deep-seated joy that comes from knowing You and following in obedience. I long for my life to reflect the abiding happiness that comes from watching and waiting with You in Your Word. Begin afresh today this work as I respond to wisdom's invitation.

Love is the Most Excellent Way

"Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance...Let love be your highest goal!..." 1 Corinthians 13:7, 14:1a

Just yesterday I read this post on Facebook, "The most important thing in life is to hear God's voice. Yes or No?"

Assuming this wasn't referencing Christ's initial, personal call to salvation, then my answer would be 'no'. As I shared in my response by comment to this social media survey, I don't deny that I long to hear the Lord speak to me, and I am absolutely thrilled when He gives specific direction through the reading of His Word, but hearing God's voice can become a very self-centered desire. If my life is consumed with wanting God to speak to me, if it's my "most important thing in life", my focus has shifted away from what the Lord says is "a way of life that is best of all." (1 Corinthians 12:31b)

God calls us to love. As Paul expressed, love should be our highest goal. Nothing surpasses God's command for us to love. In the Gospel of Mark, the author records Jesus as saying, "The most important commandment is this...you must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind and all your strength. The second is equally important: 'Love your neighbour as yourself.' No other commandment is greater than these." (Mark 12:30-31)

In 1965 a secular song peaked as number one in Canada. With lyrics and music composed by Hal David and Burt Bacharach, the main melody and chorus were written three years earlier, but the delay in completion was a struggle to express in lyrics the conveying of the message. Just last year, 2023, this song was selected by the United States Library of Congress for preservation in the National Recording Registry. What is this song that drew such attention? "What the world needs now is love, sweet love; It's the only thing that there's just too little of; What the world needs now is love, sweet love; Not just for some, but for everyone." If those who are possibly completely unaware of God's commandments know the need for love, why do we as His children struggle so much to see and share what the Lord says is the greatest and highest goal?

The love described in 1 Corinthians 13 is limitless in its endurance, holds on to faith until the end, has unfading hope and never gives up. This love believes the best and makes the choice to trust. It waits expectantly. It remains steadfast when faced with setbacks. It never fails. So how can we have a love like this? We can't. Our best efforts and strong determination will fall short. Sooner or later, we have to confess that we need God's love in us to flow through us. Only the One who has perfect love can perfect the love in us.

Love is to be our greatest quest. It is not self-centered but seeks to benefit the one being loved. It doesn't just believe, hope and endure some things, but all things. Because love has the ability to outlive all the other gifts it has the capacity to last forever.

Recently I watched a movie entitled "Radio". It is based on a true story of a football coach who befriended a mentally disabled young man who would come and stand at the fence watching the team's practice. As coach Jones begins to reach out in love to "Radio" his self-confidence begins to soar. It's incredible how extending love impacts the teenager's life. As the cost of loving comes into play and choices have to be made, the coach's wife makes a memorable statement: "It's never a mistake to care for someone. It's always a good thing."

Love is always a good thing. Choose to love today.

Unrivaled Faith!

"A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other...The same Spirit gives great faith..." 1 Corinthians 12:7, 9a

Full disclosure. I always squirm when the topic of spiritual gifts arises. I have completed multiple surveys and assessments that help to identify these special manifestations of the Spirit, and to be honest, I'm not sure I've ever landed on one that "sticks". I firmly believe that every believer has at least one spiritual gift, but recognizing it can be a challenge.

These gifts come to us given from grace, not because of anything we have earned. They cannot be refused, but they can be misused. Their intent is for the Spirit of God to be evidenced through us. Their focus is not self. They are a unique enablement that makes Christ visible, benefiting others.

As I read the list of some of the supernatural abilities that can be imparted to believers, "great faith" jumped off the page to me. I don't think I've ever paused to consider what this means. This is not the faith to believe for salvation or the ongoing work of sanctification, all believers experience that faith. No, this is an exceptional faith. A commentary I read said that this faith provides believers with an "extraordinary confidence in God's promises, power and presence." The spiritual gift of faith is exhibited by one with a strong and unshakable assurance in God and His Word. 

Examples of the gift of faith are seen through the lives of those listed in Hebrews 11. We read of their lives and marvel at the stands they took for Christ as their actions put God on display. There are still those who unwaveringly trust the Lord and take steps of obedience empowered by Him, actions that stretch far beyond their personal capabilities.

The person possessing this gift of faith looks beyond reality and reason, believing in a revelation from the Lord. When circumstances seem impossible, they have an unusual hope that things could change in a moment and God step in to alter direction. Those entrusted with this gift have a higher measure of the ordinary grace of faith.

God uses the folks with this gift to be an inspiration and encouragement to others within the body of believers. As they rely resolutely on God's Word, they often unknowingly project a humble godliness, being quietly fearless and passionate in their walk with the Lord, bringing with them a joy that radiates and an encouragement that empowers others. "They are so convinced that all obstacles to the gospel and to God's purposes will be overcome and so confident that God will secure the advancement of His cause, that they will often do far more in the promotion of His kingdom than the most talented and erudite preachers and teachers."  (GotQuestions.org)

I was listening to a podcast almost exactly two years ago when the speaker suddenly said, "Joy... I'll tell you, her determination to press us towards Jesus is unrivaled. Unrivaled! Her joy for the Lord is unrivaled, and I'm telling you guys what has established this friendship is the spirit of prayer and the presence of the Holy Spirit....I've never met Joy and I consider her one of my close friends. She knows more about my life than most people and I value that friendship."

This wasn't any "Joy". This was me. This is the "gift of faith" I couldn't identify in myself that is unrivaled, matchless and unequaled. I love that this dear friend connected it as coming from the Holy Spirit. This faith surpasses what is "normal" and is recognized as unparalleled. It's not something an individual can just summon up on their own, it is divinely imparted by the Spirit, and He alone is seen and glorified.

How my heart thrills in finally coming to understand that God has given me the spiritual gift of faith! May I continue to be an instrument in His hands to encourage others to believe God and trust Him for all things!

Link to podcast: https://livingwithpower.podbean.com/?s=Friendship

Surrendering Anything

"We would rather put up with anything than be an obstacle to the Good News about Christ." 1 Corinthians 9:12b

Specifically in this passage Paul is referencing how he denied his right to financial support when he spoke and shared the Gospel. Paul refused to be accused, as some preachers can be today, of being associated with any scandal involving money. We've all read headlines of those overseeing multi-million-dollar ministries who have used the offerings for their own personal benefits. Often unbelievers see a stigma attached to the collection plate. Although Paul affirms how being supported by the people was his right, he willingly waived that right so nothing would hinder others hearing about Christ.

In my study of this verse, I learned that "hinder, hindrance" was a strong military term used for destroying a road that an enemy would use, making it impassable. Paul was not going to allow the issue of money to be a tool in the hand of the devil that would harm the progress of the proclamation of the Gospel.

If Paul was willing to forgo finances, income we all believe we need in order to live, choosing instead to trust the Lord to provide for the sake of the advancement of the Good News, it makes me consider what "rights" I surrender so that Christ is seen and His word received by others.

We live in an age of entitlement. Certainly there are fundamental expectations of respect and consideration to others that should mark all our lives, but the idea that just because it is a "right" makes us right in demanding it, is wrong.

It was Paul's preference to give up anything that arose as an obstacle to the message of Christ. I believe one of the biggest hindrances to unbelievers having a desire to listen to the life-giving message they desperately need to hear, is watching the interaction of Christ-followers. Within our circle of those who claim to walk with Jesus there can be so much division. We talk about loving our neighbour, yielding for the sake of Christ, living in peace, doing good, yet within our very ranks there is so much dissention. Paul says, he would rather put up with "anything" than be a deterrent to the message of salvation.

What is your "anything"? What is it that you hold on to tenaciously without yielding? We harm the testimony of Jesus by digging our heels in demanding that a personal preference be a precept. Yes, there are truths that we must hold with unwavering resolve, but the majority of the disagreements that arise within the family of God are just individuals desiring their own way. I've been guilty of it too, and to what end? Broken relationships among brothers and sisters in the Lord, and ammunition for unbelievers watching our lives, looking for flaws and more reasons to refuse Christ. You see, that's it. When we don't deny ourselves, others deny Jesus.

The rights that you renounce for the sake of Christ reveal how desperate you are for the winning of souls and the keeping of unity within the body of believers. Sure, you can adamantly keep pursuing things in which you feel you are absolutely correct to receive or demand, and you may be completely deserving, but nothing displays the character of Christlikeness like sacrifice for the sake of another soul.

To be effective as a servant of the Lord, there are sometimes short-term surrenders or long-term decisions for lifetime benefits. Paul actually found joy in giving up his rightful claims because of his heart for Christ and others, and you too can experience this same pleasure as you seek to lay aside your "anything" for the furtherance of the Gospel.

More Than Words

"For the Kingdom of God is not just a lot of talk; it is living by God's power." 1 Corinthians 4:20

I'm sure you are all familiar with the expression "talk is cheap". We can quickly respond in the affirmative but the truth is in the action. Another rhyme I've heard is, "Your talk talks, and your walk talks, but your walk talks louder than your talk talks." A bit of a tongue twister, but again the emphasis is that words alone are not as convincing or as valuable as deeds. Words come easy. Doing can be hard.

I enjoy writing, so for me the verbal finds voice effortlessly, but the follow-through can be more difficult. I speak "Christianese" well, being immersed in this familiar dialect since birth. I can fill in the blanks in Bible Study and give the expected answer. Just recently I was with my son while he was reading Bible stories as part of my grandson's bedtime routine. Every question he asked, his darling little three-year-old answered, "Jesus". We are trained to speak the language of the godly from a young age, but it is "fruit" that gives evidence that our lives are more than words.

"For the Kingdom of God is not just a lot of talk; it is living by God's power." Living by God's power. That is moment by moment, breathing in, breathing out, alive by His power. Do we fully understand that His presence in us provides His power through us? Evidence of God's power activated in us is proportionate to the attacks of the enemy against us. It is a fact that if we are moving in God's power, Satan will be opposing us, as our lives become a threat to the prince of darkness. He hates to see the work of God advancing.

Living by God's power always moves us outside our personal comfort zones. It often involves taking risks and going on adventures. God's power will place us in situations, lead us to destinations and stretch our limitations for the purpose of His revelation. It doesn't have to be heading to the mission field in a faraway country. It could be the courage to share Christ with our neighbour, try out for the volleyball team, or invite our boss for dinner. It is facing trials with peace, responding to unwelcomed news with acceptance and holding on to hope through grief. It is joy in the midst of pain and trust in the midst of uncertainty. It enables us to wait well in a long grocery line or sit patiently in traffic. It stops us from yelling at our children or being annoyed at our coworker. It is when the very energy of God Himself infuses us to do something beyond our own ability, giving supernatural and divine strength, wisdom, and skill to accomplish tasks or respond to situations in a way far outside our own reach.

We have to learn to cease relying on our own efforts and resources. Our power only extends so far, but God's power is limitless. It boggles my mind when I try to fathom that the same power that raised Christ from the dead lives in us! Do our lives give evidence of so great a gift? As I write this, I am seeing God's power on display through the life of my friend Luann and her husband Dwight. After experiencing a medical emergency while vacationing in Italy almost a month ago, at this very moment she is sharing pictures as they travel back to the United States. Each photo is a testimony of God's power. He is all I see as I view airplanes, runways and lift-off. His power that sustained them each day is bringing them home!

When faced with impossibilities we rely on God's power by faith. It doesn't matter how inadequate or ill-equipped we are, if Christ resides within us, we have the assurance of His incredible help at all times. I don't want my life to only be good intentions. Professions must see their fulfillment in reality. Today I am wearing my "Living With Power" t-shirt, the name of a ministry I support, and praying that this visual will be a reminder that this truth is more than words.

What will the Holy Spirit lead you to do because of the truth of God's power in you? Will you allow Him to be seen and glorified through your life today?

"A person's true spiritual character is not determined by the impressiveness of his words but by the power of his life." John MacArthur

Beyond My Wildest Dreams!

"...No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him." 1 Corinthians 2:9b

In my wildest dreams I never would have guessed what God had in store for me that day. My husband and I arrived at the airport and all too soon the necessary check-ins where accomplished and it was time to say goodbye. I was headed to North Carolina for the Proverbs 31 "She Speaks" conference and flying alone for the first time. I might have been smiling on the outside, but inside I was feeling pretty hesitant. A quick hug and kiss and I turned to walk through the security doors - each step a step of faith.

Not being a seasoned traveller, finding my departure gate was an adventure. Thankfully the Lord directed me to a sign indicating I needed to board a bus that would take me to another building and I would then be on my way. Once I was seated in the correct terminal there was nothing more to do but wait and pray...and pray some more. I had brought with me 31 pages of typed Bible verses, prayers and words of encouragement that friends, family and Proverbs 31 ministry staff had sent to strengthen me along the way. Truths to treasure. More than sentences on a page, they were promises that spoke of victory already accomplished. I cherished each assurance and clung to every word, breathing in the testimony of triumph they conveyed as I trusted the Lord.

With each passing minute, fear increased. Flying had me terrified! Time was an enemy, constantly reminding me of the challenge ahead. I sat praying for God's peace to envelop me and praising Him for what He was going to do.

Suddenly my attention was drawn to a gal walking by. My heart skipped a beat. Gathering my belongings, I followed after her, calling her name..."Lorie". She turned. We embraced. I had a friend. God was not going to make me face this journey alone. He had provided the sweet surprise of a travelling companion. Lorie and I had attended school together in Grades 7 and 8, but I had probably only seen her about half a dozen times in the 30 years that had passed until this moment. What fun it was to sit and reminisce. My heart was overflowing.

As we stood in response to the boarding call, Lorie asked me where I was seated on the plane. I told her I was near the front - aisle 2. She explained to me that her seat had been chosen and booked weeks ago, but when she arrived at the airport that morning, she had been told that her seat had to be changed. She was disappointed as the small, 50-seater plane was far from filled to capacity and she couldn't understand why they would assign her a different seat. I knew instantly! As she pulled out her boarding pass to see where she was now located, can you believe the joy that exploded like fireworks in my heart when we discovered that God had moved her right beside me!

On my friends, never doubt what God can do! God was still asking me to trust Him, but He was providing such wonderful evidence of His love for me. Could He have asked me to travel alone? Most definitely yes. But, in His great compassion and care He saw my timid heart and said, "Dear Joy, I see how you have taken these difficult steps to trust Me. If only you had realized all along that I was always going to make a way for you. If only you would trust My heart. Before you had even registered for the Conference, I had chosen a friend to travel with you on your journey from fear to faith. Where I guide, I will provide. You can believe My promises. I have good plans in store for you, plans to give you a hope and a future. Fall into My embrace and let Me carry you the rest of your days, in peace and calm assurance that I will never leave you or forsake you. I gave My life for you, My precious child, don't doubt My provision any longer. I love you so very much!"

With a heart of reckless abandon, I found my seat. God was going to fly me to heights unknown as my plane sped down the runway.

"Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us..." Ephesians 3:20

Convenient or Costly?

"But the king replied to Araunah, 'No, I insist on buying it, for I will not present burnt offerings to the LORD my God that have cost me nothing.'" 2 Samuel 24:24a

David sins by taking a census that results in a plague upon Israel that lasted three days, killing 70,000 people. When the LORD relents and ends the affliction, David approaches the owner of the threshing floor where the death angel appeared at the moment God ceased the destruction. David desires to purchase the place and build an altar to the LORD, but Araunah, the owner, wants to give it to the king. David refuses to receive it as a gift, insistent that he will pay the price for the land, oxen and all that is required for the sacrificial offerings. He says, "I will not present burnt offerings to the LORD my God that have cost me nothing."

You see, the meaning of "sacrifice" implies that something is given up or surrendered. It's yielding to another what is personally important or valuable. David recognized that if his actions didn't impact him at all, the offering would be unworthy.

I've often thought about this verse in relation to what I present before the Lord. Whether it be my time, finances, other gifts and resources, do I give to the level where I feel and experience the cost, or is what I'm offering to the Lord from a place of abundance? Do I genuinely feel a pinch in the price I'm paying? Is what I am presenting before the Lord convenient or is it costly?

And, please don't misunderstand. This isn't simply giving in abundance as an act of manipulation to get something in return. The prophet Amos reminds us that God only accepts sacrifices as responses of obedience. A sacrifice is only worthy when it is a gesture of authentic worship.

Consider with me for a moment accomplishments you've achieved in life. I think I can guarantee that unless you fell into an unexpected inheritance, each has come through "blood, sweat and tears". Easy never concludes with the same victory and celebration as efforts that have been filled with hard work, late nights, struggle, pain, uncertainties, complete dependence on God and countless hours of prayer. It's in paying the price, persevering through the pain, pressing on in prayer, where our hearts are exposed and we see what we treasure most. The rich young ruler in Mark 10, when faced with the opportunity to sell all of his possessions and give the money to the poor, walked away sad, choosing his personal wealth over the riches of eternity. It is sobering to consider what our truthful response would be if faced with a similar question this very moment. Maybe instead I should ask, "Is Christ worth your everything?" As Jim Elliott so wisely said, "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose."

I loved a side note that Will Graham wrote regarding this transaction: "It's interesting to note that this land would later become the site of Solomon's Temple (2 Chronicles 3:1). Though David did not build nor see the Temple, he acquired the land on which the next generation would build. This is an important truth for us to remember. When we sacrifice for the Kingdom of God, we are laying a foundation for the next generation to continue to worship and grow in the faith, while also imparting to them the importance of the principle of sacrifice."

In what areas is God calling you to take steps of sacrifice for His glory? "The things of this world are temporary, but true sacrifice is eternal. May we honour the Lord and serve Christ, while leaving a godly legacy of obedience to the next generation."

"Jesus paid it all, All to Him I owe; Sin had left a crimson stain, He washed it white as snow."

Quotes: Will Graham, "A Sacrifice That Costs Nothing is Worth Nothing", April 2, 2024, billygraham.org/story/will-graham-devotion-a-sacrifice-that-costs-nothing-is-worth-nothing/ 

Hymn Lyrics: "Jesus Paid It All"; Elvina Hall; copyright 1865

Keep Your Distance!

"Stay away from her! Don't go near the door of her house!" Proverbs 5:8

I recognize that Proverbs 5 is written with the intention of giving a warning to the reader to avoid immoral women, but God actually used Proverbs 5:8 to speak a very clear directive in my life over ten years ago. There are "doors" we need to avoid.

Taking part in a private, online reading of scripture group, daily I would interact with the participants by writing comments and discussing how the Lord was speaking to me through His Word. We enjoyed wonderful deep discussions, sharing insights with one another. As the months continued I got to know the members as we prayed for one another and spoke of the personal ways that God was guiding us. One gal in particular would often respond to me, and although I appreciated her input, her insights and interpretations varied greatly from mine. Regardless of our differences she began to privately message me.

I will not deny that she had walked a hard road. Her family upbringing definitely had its challenges. Her marriage was broken. Her own sons struggled to have a relationship with her. And due to no fault of her own, having stepped in to physically intervene when a fight broke out in her place of employment, it resulted in multiple surgeries and lasting injuries. Life was difficult, no argument. My tender heart sympathized with all she had experienced. The more I responded with compassion, the more she opened her heart to me. Living hours away in a different country, I promised to pray.

One day she simply sent me a message that read, "When are you arriving?" She began to plant seeds of the possibility of meeting. To make a long story short we did visit one another multiple times. I drove to her home and she booked a flight and stayed in our home, once even coming to be with my family and I for Christmas because otherwise she said she would have been all alone. The thing is, in reality our lives were vastly different, and so was our desire to walk with God.

I started to recognize that time with this gal was changing me. I began to accept the unacceptable and do the unthinkable and participate in the inconceivable. I was walking a slippery slope. I knew better, but my strength seemed to vanish in her presence. I'm not blaming her for decisions I made and stands not taken. She may have been enticing me, but I had the choice to walk away.

On the last invitation she extended to me to visit her, I knew I shouldn't go. I was walking into a mine field. On my own I couldn't find the courage to just say 'no'. I remember opening my Bible one morning, praying for specific direction and I read, "Keep to a path far from her, do not go near the door of her house." (NIV)

God was making it very clear that the best defense is distance! David Guzik in his commentary on Proverbs 5 writes, "The longer one stays in the presence of such enticement to evil, the worse the danger becomes." The simplest way to flee temptation is by removing it completely.

"I walk down the street. There is a deep hole in the sidewalk. I fall in. I am lost...I am helpless. It isn't my fault. It takes forever to find a way out.

I walk down the same street. There is a deep hole in the sidewalk. I pretend I don't see it. I fall in again. I can't believe I am in the same place. But, it isn't my fault. It still takes me a long time to get out.

I walk down the same street. There is a deep hole in the sidewalk. I see it is there. I still fall in. It's a habit. My eyes are open. I know where I am. It is my fault. I get out immediately.

I walk down the same street. There is a deep hole in the sidewalk. I walk around it.

I walk down another street."

There are times when knowing danger is ahead and walking towards it or around it is foolish. We need to remove any allurement by walking down another street.

I don't know what "hole" you need to avoid or what "door" God is asking you to depart from, but I do know we need to heed His warning. I had many cautioning me over the 3 to 4 years while this gal was consuming my life, but I dismissed their input and refused to see the red flags all over this relationship. It wasn't until God gave such startling clear guidance that I was brave enough, and wise enough to part ways. We have to starve sin or it will be killing us.

Quote: Portia Nelson, "There's a Hole in My Sidewalk: The Romance of Self-Discovery; Artia Books; Copyright 2012

The Shimei in Us All

"Shimei son of Gera, the man from Bahurim in Benjamin, hurried across with the men of Judah to welcome King David." 2 Samuel 19:16

The above verse stopped me as I read this morning. Wait, is this the same Shimei who I wrote about yesterday? Is this the man who was using the king for target practice of both insults and stones? Is it true that he has come to welcome David home? Has he sincerely gone from keeping pace in cruelty to making peace through confession? Yes!

"As the king was about to cross the river, Shimei fell down before him. 'My lord the king, please forgive me,' he pleaded. 'Forget the terrible thing your servant did when you left Jerusalem. May the king put it out of his mind. I know how much I sinned. That is why I have come here today, the very first person in all Israel to greet my lord the king." (2 Samuel 19:18b-20)

As I read Shimei's repentance and desire for forgiveness, tears filled my eyes. I think of times when I have been "Shimei". Standing in a place of acknowledging my sin and longing for mercy. I felt his genuine desire for restoration after recognizing his sin. I too so often fall before my King, Lord and Saviour, admitting my transgression and crying out for pardon, even though I'm so undeserving. Like David who spared Shimei's life, God spares mine time and time again.

Pondering this encounter between David and Shimei has also given me so much hope! Just a couple of days ago a friend was sharing with me about her brother. His middle name could be "Shimei". He has relentlessly caused heartache and dissension within their family. All are weary and fearful of his angry outbursts and controlling nature. Every contact becomes a confrontation. His actions are so evil and abusive that the entire family try to avoid him, setting up boundaries to protect themselves. His reactions to every situation have the potential for harm. My friend questioned why the Lord allows him to go on.

I believe the answer is found in today's reading. The parallel is astonishing to me. This man, the enemy who pursued David with such unyielding resolve, is now bowing before the king begging, not just for lenience, but to be excused and his actions forgotten. He has come to a place of owning his deeds and admitting his behaviour. In response, David not only extends grace and mercy to his offender, but speaks words of defense to others who desire to see him die. It's so remarkable. No wonder David is described as being a man after God's own heart. 

This is what the Lord does for us continually. Jesus is our Defender. He stands before His Father as our Advocate, pleading our case so the verdict is favourable. When we fall on our knees before the Lord, unworthy of forgiveness, He says His blood has covered our sin. Like David, God spares our life, not just here on earth, but for all eternity. 

Not only could my friend's brother be called "Shimei", we all at times have carried his name. We all fail. We have all spoken unkindly, thrown accusations and hurt others. What glorious grace has met our repentance. A turnaround can happen at any time, and that's the reason the Lord allows the "Shimei's" within and around us to go on. And so we pray. We pray that God will touch our hearts, and theirs, so sin is exposed, drawing us to plead for forgiveness and receive pardon. We also need to learn to be Christlike in our response to those who seek forgiveness from us. Regardless of the pain they have inflicted in the past, when true confession kneels before us, we must forgive as God forgives. Praise the Lord that He forgives the "Shimei" in us all!

Keeping Pace

"So David and his men continued down the road, and Shimei kept pace with them on a nearby hillside, cursing and throwing the stones and dirt at David. The king and all who were with him grew weary along the way, so they rested when they reached the Jordan River." 2 Samuel 16:13-14

David encounters a violent, insolent man named Shimei, who throws both stones and curses at him. Although the stones make contact, it was the words that made impact. David begins to question whether all Shimei is saying is true and he is only getting what he deserves. The strain of the emotional and physical abuse is exhausting and it "kept pace" with David as he travelled.

There are times when it truly feels that hardship and heartache keep pace with us. We can't seem to get out from under the umbrella of difficulty. Whether it's external cruelty or internal conflict, it's walking at the same speed of each one of our footsteps with continual attacks, wearing us down and making us discouraged.

We all face seasons of hardship and it is essential that we find ways to endure. When adversity is accompanying us continually, I've often heard it said that just getting out of bed in the morning is the greatest accomplishment of the day. John Piper has said that "when our heart is breaking, we must labour with a broken instrument."

How do we keep living day by day when drowning in affliction? When unrelenting criticism, accusations, uncertainties, confusion, hopelessness, rejection and disappointment are "keeping pace" with our days and it's hard to exhale, how do we get out from under the blanket of slander and suffering?

Again we return to the sovereignty of God, even over the missiles of curses, stones and dirt. Trusting in God's sovereignty is what sustains us as believers. Knowing that He is good and faithful and that hardship is personally measured out by His hand, even though dreaded and desired to be avoided, it can be the best teacher, drawing us to places of great intimacy with the Lord. Although we may feel forsaken, we are not forgotten and God's unexpected power falls on us as we experience Him in new and personal ways.

The dark days also strengthen us for future use. When others watch us leaning on the Lord and trusting in Him even when the way is cold and questionable, they see God and are encouraged in their own walks through the wilderness. God utilizes ever trial for His glory, and often our response to the testing we experience is being observed and empowering another in the challenges they are facing.

I love that David recognized his need for rest when the battle became too much. It seems we so often prioritize everything but rest. We feel guilty for pausing when we are overwhelmed and unable to handle the demands before us. We push ourselves to try and rush ahead of the pace of our hardship, believing that stopping won't accomplish anything. We see rest as weakness. God sees it as survival.

When we are the target of curses, stones and dirt being hurled from a nearby hillside, and it is tireless and tiring we must run, as David expressed in Psalm 61, to the rock who is higher than I and find our rest in Him. Be encouraged, and take a deep breath my friend. Although it sometimes seems like struggles and sorrows will last forever, they are temporary. God promises that one day they will be no more, and everlasting joy will be upon our heads. (Isaiah 51:11)