God's Sovereign Hand

"In the sixth year, in the sixth month on the fifth day, while I was sitting in my house and the elders of Judah were sitting before me, the hand of the Sovereign LORD came on me there." Ezekiel 8:1 (NIV)

Ezekiel, trained as a priest, became a prophet of the Lord while in Babylon. His name actually means "strengthened by God", and there are multiple times throughout the book bearing his name that we read how "the hand of the Sovereign LORD" came upon him. What does it mean to have the hand of God come upon us?

The hand of God upon a life provides supernatural strength and direction for a difficult task. My mind immediately reflects back to Grade 10 gym class. I will easily confess that I am not an athlete. My focus and training were all musical and I had no interest in sports of any kind. I remember the weeks our Phys-Ed classes were focused on apparatuses such as the uneven bars, vault, pommel horse and beam. At the conclusion of this segment of teaching we all had to create and perform a program on one of the pieces of equipment. Not desiring to choose any, and with no experience because of lack of participation during class, by process of elimination I decided on the beam. No one was more nervous than I was as I climbed up, for the first time, to present my routine. To this day I have no idea what I did, but the encouragement and cheers from fellow classmates as I made my dismount revealed one thing, the hand of the Sovereign LORD had come on me. My prayer had just been not to fall off and break my neck, but God graciously provided me with His strength that enabled me to do more than I felt physically capable and pass the requirements needed. I know that may seem like a strange illustration for this truth, but as a fifteen-year-old, that example fills my heart as one of the first times I personally experienced the hand of God divinely providing ability to undertake a task that was far beyond anything I could do on my own.

Ezekiel had a call on his life from God, and when we respond in obedience as he did, we can be assured that God will enable us to fulfill His call. The power of God, through the hand of God upon us gives tangible evidences of His help. Not only does the hand of God provide power, but it is a sustaining, delivering, guiding, redeeming, protecting and encouraging hand. 

God's hand upon us also indicates His Spirit commissioning us. It is God giving Himself to us in a special way to fulfill a purpose for His glory. It is the acting power of God upon our lives. The hand of God is His sufficiency at a specific moment of need. Like my Olympic Gold Medal routine (*smile*), I was able to testify to my friends that it was God and God alone who provided for me that day in gym class.

In our very self-sufficient society, sadly the hand of God is often missed. We seek to be supplied and sustained by our own efforts, neglecting all opportunities to see God's provision. Ezekiel recognized the hand of the Sovereign LORD upon him and acknowledged His strengthening hand. Would we notice a touch from the Lord? 

In 1921 a poem was written by Myra Brooks Welch that tells the story of an old, battered and broken violin that was being sold for a pittance as the final item at an auction. As the auctioneer began his, "Going once, going twice...", a violinist picked up the instrument and started to play so that everyone in attendance could hear its value. The auctioneer then resumed the bidding and the previous $3 sale increased to thousands. The author ends the writing by drawing the reader's attention to what made the change in price. It was the touch of the master musician's hand. The parallel is worthy to note. It is God's hand upon our lives that makes the difference as well.

Maybe today you are longing for "the hand of the Sovereign LORD" to come upon you. May the Master's hand touch your life providing whatever you most need in your current circumstances. Trust He can, and believe He will.

Successful Efforts

"Let us, Your servants, see You work again; let our children see Your glory. And may the Lord our God show us His approval and make our efforts successful. Yes, make our efforts successful!" Psalm 90:16-17

I am assuming that every single person who reads the request of the Psalmist in verses 16-17 is echoing his words. In his benediction, this prayer of Moses concludes with the longing for God to display His power, show His glory, send His approval and "establish the work of our hands" (NIV). We all long to see God's favour rest on our pursuits with successful results. We want our lives to matter. We do not want our work to be wasted. Lord, make what we do have meaning and impact, not for our good but for Your glory.

Throughout Psalm 90 Moses recalls the brevity of life. He compares our days to the grass that grows and quickly withers. Our time on earth is so temporary. He asks God to teach us all to understand how quickly our years pass, "so that we may grow in wisdom" (vs12). Our days are short and we want to see them count for something. But how do we number our days? Do we view them as coming to an end, or to a new beginning? As believers, as we number our days, each one draws us closer to eternity. Each day we live moves us closer to seeing Jesus face-to-face. With this outlook life becomes so much more hopeful. We can live with an eternal perspective as we consider every activity as something we can do for the Lord until He calls us home.

As we live for the Lord, we often measure God's approval by the success of our efforts. We hate the thought that everything we are pouring ourselves into day after day is in vain, but it is God and God alone who can take our apparent unsuccessful attempts and change what seems like wasted efforts into worthy endeavours. 

I remember praying these verses on March 30th, 2024. My son Chris had composed a musical journey in scripture, tracing the story of salvation from Genesis to Revelation. "It is Written" is a modern-day oratorio that premiered Easter weekend at our home church. With live orchestra and full choir, including soloists and ensembles, the long-awaited work of his hands was going to debut. I recall so vividly that these verses were included in my "scheduled reading plan" that day. As I let God's word fill my heart, I prayed this scripture fervently over Christopher's efforts. I asked the Lord to let my son experience His power, see His glory, know His approval and make his efforts successful. My prayer was not for the sound of human applause, but for God to be honoured and praised through the time and dedication, years and hard work that culminated from hours of sitting with God and His Word to bring this composition to completion. From the testimonies that followed, I know God responded favourably to this prayer that morning as we heard of lives that were greatly impacted and those without faith having their hearts and minds awakened to the message of salvation.

But, here's the question: Was it "successful" if from the thousands of people who heard the presentation over the course of three days, only one person understood God's love and responded to His invitation? How my voice resounds with a hearty yes!! Why do many of us feel so dissatisfied with "one"? I know we long to reach the world and see many come to know the Lord, but what if God asks us to live all our days, spending all our efforts for Him, pouring our lives out day after day after day, for one? Do we feel our life has been useless? Oh, my friend, not for that one.

I pray to be used mightily for God. I long to make an impact in the circle of influence God has given me, but I also desire to live with the same passion and fervour before just one as if He called me to speak before nations and crowds of thousands. I do not want to consider any ministry opportunity as lesser than another. Do not let the longing for more blind you to all the moments in-between. I feel like I cannot express this enough. Successful efforts are the daily opportunities when our lives rest in God's hand and we choose obedience. Surrender to the Lord and allow Him to determine the results of your "yes", resting in the contentment that He is in control, and all His efforts through you will be successful.

Intimacy Precedes Ministry

"Then He added, 'Son of man, let all My words sink deep into your own heart first. Listen to them carefully for yourself. Then go...'" Ezekiel 3:10-11a

Ezekiel was a prophet who spoke to the Israelites being held captive in Babylon, but before he could speak to the people, he first needed to listen and receive the word from the Lord himself. This is true for all of us as well. We cannot go and feed others until we have first spent time feasting on God's Word for ourselves.

As believers we are very familiar with the great commission to go and make disciples, sharing the Gospel message and inviting others into a deeper relationship with Christ. The problem arises when we are sharing God's word without first entering in to a place of personal, deep intimacy with the Lord. This is true for most things in life. We must know before we go.

Just yesterday my sister needed to stop and fill her car with gas. Although she is very familiar with the process of doing it herself, because of new regulations, she can no longer pay after filling her tank, but must pre-pay to activate the pump. She has watched others do it many times, but was uncertain how to proceed on her own. Being in the car with her, I was able to give her a visual and walk her through each step from a place of doing it often and knowing the process. My insights and guidance were valuable to her.

Recently at the Global Missions Conference held annually at my church, guest Pastor Santiago Fuentes from Mexico City, shared how all ministry is an outflow of intimacy with God. God calls us to intimacy, not ministry. When we know and trust the Lord, allowing His truths to first "sink deep into our own hearts", we will then be equipped to walk in obedience and take His truth to others so that they too can know the Lord. He shared the following illustration.

When he was a teenager, he had a nephew who was several years younger than him. This little fellow looked up to his uncle and wanted to do everything he did. During school vacation in the summer, this child would come and spend time at Santiago's house. Wanting to give this lad a fun holiday, Santiago would plan daily outings that he hoped would amuse and excite his nephew. Every day, without question, and without knowing where they were going, this little boy would just take Santiago's hand and follow him wherever he went. He was content to know that his uncle knew where he was going, and he trusted him to guide wherever he felt best. This boy knew his uncle, and from that place of informed intimacy, a foundation of faith was established.

Do we respond the same to God? Do we know Him and trust Him so completely that even when the way is uncertain and the road looks dark, will we hold His hand and trust His heart, following confidently? When we know the One who is leading and guiding, the path pales in importance compared to the promised presence of our Saviour.

What does it mean to have God's Word sink deep into our hearts? This is not just an exercise in retaining information to pass on to someone else. The Lord's desire is for Ezekiel to listen carefully for himself, making personal application in his own life first. This must be primary before it is appropriate to instruct others. We cannot give out what we do not possess. Until our lives are transformed by God's Word, our words will have little influence in the lives of others. Internalizing all the Lord speaks to us is a prerequisite to sharing it with others. To be an effective messenger it is essential we first embody His truths in our hearts, minds and souls. God's Word was to be embraced intellectually, emotionally and personally before going and sharing with others.

Trust comes from knowing whose hand we hold. The greatest gift we will ever give the Lord is our intimacy with Him. Every day we can choose to be in His Word and in prayer. When we get to heaven one day may we be so familiar with God's face, His voice, and His character, all because of our intimacy with Him.

Finishing Well

"As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful." 2 Timothy 4:6-7

I never read 2 Timothy 4:7 without memories of my precious Nanny flooding my heart. My mom's mom lived with our family all the days of my life before she passed into glory. She was a woman of tremendous courage. Having lived through the Depression, the sudden loss of her husband, and then facing multiple cancer diagnoses, she epitomized bravery to me as a young girl. She had a strength of character that was rare. She died when I was 12 years old and I often wish I could turn the clock back and know her now. As a pre-teen I was still pretty much a child when God called her home, and I know I often gave her a hard time and was not as sensitive to her needs as I should have been. I wish I could tell her how my memories of her now are filled with love for every sacrifice she made and every stand she took as she lived for Christ so faithfully. The verse from 2 Timothy was inscribed as the epitaph on her tombstone and remains as a testimony of one who lived and died for her Lord.

We do not get to write the last chapter of our lives, but if we could, how would we like the final pages to end? We will all face death. Not one of us will escape dying unless Christ returns while we are living and we meet Him in the air (1 Thessalonians 4:17). Just recently the question was posed to me, "What is one of your greatest fears?" I know that when the Lord calls me home my eternal destiny is secure through the salvation of Christ's blood on the cross, but it is the "how" of that journey that makes me anxious. Some people die quickly and peacefully, while others really struggle in tremendous pain at the end of their lives. I heard a nurse say once that we fight to be born and we fight to die. How can we finish the race well?

Paul, in writing to young Timothy, has the assurance of three things. He had fought the good fight. He had finished the race. He had kept the faith. Paul realized that life was not something to be safeguarded, but to be surrendered as a sacrifice. He poured his life out as an offering to God, even at his death. He was dying, like he was living, completely given over to the will of Christ. I recall Dr. Rick Reed teaching, "Live sacrificially, so that death will be the final installment of your offering." Oh, to have the mindset that embraces that truth.

When Jesus saved us, it was not just to start a race, but to finish the race. The Christian life is a fight worth fighting, a race worth running and a faith worth keeping. When our days have ended and others left behind here on earth think about us, what will they remember? With all my heart I pray to be remembered as one who made choices that honour the Lord and was constantly growing in my walk with Him. I pray that someone will say, "I recall a woman, can't remember her name, but she loved like Jesus and His presence shone through her countenance."

I recently read a poem by Amy Carmichael, who once described her missionary life as simply, "a chance to die." As a missionary to India for 56 years, she experienced incredible tests of faith and courage. I want to close with a poem that gives evidence of a life poured out for the sake of the Gospel, from one who finished well.

Make Me Thy Fuel

From prayer that asks that I may be, Sheltered from winds that beat on Thee

From fearing when I should aspire, From faltering when I should climb higher,

From silken self, O Captain free, Thy soldier who would follow Thee.

From subtle love of softening things, From easy choices, weakenings

(Not thus our spirits fortified, Not this way went the crucified)

From all that dims Thy Calvary, O Lamb of God, deliver me.

Give me the love that will lead the way, The faith that nothing can dismay,

The hope no disappointments tire, The passion that will burn like fire

Let me not sink to be a clod: Make me Thy fuel, O Lamb of God.

Even Me

"I will count Egypt and Babylon among those who know Me - also Philistia and Tyre, and even distant Ethiopia. They have all become citizens of Jerusalem!" Psalm 87:4

Reading the list of nations in Psalm 87 my thoughts turn to all the ways they fought against God's people, yet now the Psalmist is declaring them to be citizens of Jerusalem.

"Egypt and Babylon, both monstrous political powers, have been adopted. Philistines, constant enemies of Israel, are now countrymen. Tyre, who at best are fickle trading partners, is now a native. And even the faraway people of Ethiopia are included in God's new city. People from all over the world are now brothers, united by a shared allegiance to God's city, Jerusalem. And while there is no uniform ethnicity or nationality, all people in God's city have this in common: God's census has claimed them to be true children of Zion. And everyone in the city praises God for being their common source, like a fountain spring branching off into many rivers."

Does sit shock us that enemies of God's people are included as citizens in God's city? If we were to replace, the list of nations with names of some of the evilest people in history, knowing they had been welcomed into God's Kingdom, how would we react? Often our hearts can resist seeing those whose lives have been so corrupt, be accepted and forgiven. We would rather they receive judgement and punishment for their actions. Oh, but for the grace of God we would each be like one of those we are quick to despise. Let us consider those within Christ's circle of influence.

"Jesus came to create a new nation (Matthew 4:17); not an earthly nation bound by geographic features, but a heavenly Kingdom inclusive of all tribes, nations, and languages (John 18:36). While Jesus lived, His followers included not just Israelites, but citizens of enemy nations. Roman centurions, Samaritans, and Greeks all followed Jesus (Matthew 8:5-13; John 4:1-42, 12:20-36), not to mention the moral-outsiders like Roman-sympathizing Jews, prostitutes, and sinners that Jesus accepted as part of His company (Matthew 9:9-12). In His life, Jesus demonstrated that He was building a nation not based on geography, language, or even moral virtue but by His people's shared allegiance to Him. The deep love God has for Jerusalem in this psalm was shown when God sent Jesus to the world, so that all who believe in Him will live with God in His city forever (John 12:32; Philippians 3:20)."

All who believe. Every single one. The "Saul's" of this world who openly object the message of the Gospel are not outside the reach of God's hand or the arms of His welcome. As God declares, they can be counted "among those who know Me." That breathes such hope as we watch oppressive people, leaders, and governments maliciously attacking all who stand for Biblical truth. It is not impossible for their hearts to change.

"While it's true that Jesus came to make all people citizens of His one final Kingdom, it's just as common for the Bible to describe this reality as adoption (Hebrews 2:10-11; Galatians 4:4-5). We are members of Jesus' family because He came and died to make us so (John 1:12-13). Where there used to be division between God's people and the rest of the world, Jesus tears those barriers down and forms a new humanity, a new nation, and a new city of God (Ephesians 2:14-18). And the best news is that even rebellious and disobedient enemies of God are invited to join. When we pledge ourselves to Jesus, He secures not just our forgiveness or citizenship, but our inclusion as full members of God's family (Romans 5:7-8)."

Did you see that? "Rebellious and disobedient enemies of God are invited to join." Was that not each one of us before our eyes were open to the truth of salvation? If we know the Lord has our personal Saviour our citizenship forever is secure. Thank You Lord for saving even me.

Quotes: https://www.spokengospel.com/devotionals/psalm-87

Daring to Hope with Unshakeable Joy

"Joy has left our hearts; our dancing has turned to mourning." "Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this: The faithful love of the LORD never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is His faithfulness; His mercies begin afresh each morning. I say to myself, 'The LORD is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in Him!'" Lamentations 5:15, 3:21-24

Joy and Hope! These are two commodities we cannot live well without. Think over this past year. Have all your hopes been satisfied and your heart always been joyful? Life can crash in on us unexpectedly. Without hope, hardship depletes joy.

For five chapters in the book of Lamentations, the prophet Jeremiah reflects on the circumstances surrounding the exile of the people of Jerusalem. Expressions of desolation and sorrow fill the verses as the situation appears catastrophic and the people defeated. I remember near the start of the Covid pandemic in March of 2020, the world was literally thrust into a panic, somewhat encouraged through media, yet the statistics reporting daily deaths to this unknown virus were frightening. We were instructed to isolate immediately and take precautions, with a province wide shutdown beginning March 17th. Suggestions were made on how to live within parameters deemed safe. The abrupt change and the mandatory laws were overwhelming. Fear. Uncertainty. Anger. Anxiety. Confusion. Stress. These emotions were on the rise at a time when medical help was already being stretched beyond limit, so many were suffering with depression while in isolation.

About a week into our lockdown a friend shared a video on social media from a doctor somewhere in the United States. The doctor was giving a less-than-three-minute update on her views of the pandemic. At the conclusion of the video, with a smile on her face, she said, "Don't give up. I believe with all my heart that we will get there. God is still in control and we are going to come out of this stronger!" It was the first time in less than 10 days that I had heard a medical professional speak with such assurance over the outcome of the current situation, as well as acknowledge the sovereignty of God. The famine of joy and hope that had filled my heart were instantly replaced with the confidence that only Christ can provide. Her words felt like oxygen, breathing in fresh life again. 

There are times when we can "dare to hope" in the face of uncertainty because God is our hope (Psalm 62:5-6). We can also experience unshakeable joy because in His presence is fulness of joy (Psalm 16:11). As the prophet Jeremiah writes in Lamentations, the faithful love of the Lord never ends and His mercies are new every morning. In the face of vanishing hope and joy, with unchanging difficult circumstances, we must remind ourselves what we know about God and let His truth override our emotions.

We have a couple of members in our family who are extremely keen to check the "Best Before" date on all perishable items. It can become amusing at the dinner table as labels to salad dressings are scrutinized before use. Well, guess what, God's steadfast love and mercy never expires. Our hope and joy can remain because the object of both is enough for now and for eternity. Truth transforms feelings. Jeremiah's spirit is uplifted as he recalls what he knows to be forever true about the Lord.

A crisis reveals whether our hope and joy have been misplaced. If our hope and joy are in the Lord, resting on His promises, we will be grounded as both these responses will still abound through the trials that come our way. It does not mean that there will not be moments when we sit with Jeremiah and weep over disappointments and unfilled longings. Heartaches bring grief. The people of Jerusalem were carried off to Babylon as captives, the city was in ruin, and the Temple was rubble. Yet, amidst the destruction, there are whispers of hope and echoes of joy. We may pause and reflect, cry and lament, but we will not stay there. Stirring up inside us is the God who dwells within us and the hope and joy He brings will cause our praise to rise.

(And here is the link to that video that pointed my hope and joy towards Jesus: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEAVWBxqsbc You can also find her Biblical teaching at livingwithpower.org)

 

Does Sin Cause God to Abandon Us?

"For the LORD of Heaven's Armies has not abandoned Israel and Judah. He is still their God, even though their land was filled with sin against the Holy One of Israel." Jeremiah 51:5

Reading in Jeremiah we see the "still-ness" of God. Although Israel and Judah were a land "filled with sin against the Holy One of Israel", the LORD did not abandon them. He was still with them. In their sin, He remained their God. That brings up a question. Does it not say in scripture that sin separates us from the Lord? Yet, how can one be separated from an omnipresent God?

Certainly, those who have not acknowledged the Lord, confessed sin and repented, live apart from God. Ephesians 2:12 speaks of those who are "excluded from citizenship" and do not know the covenant promises, living in a world without God and without hope. These are those dear ones who are truly lost. Later in the same book written by Paul, he describes those whose minds are full of darkness, wandering far from a life of following God, having their minds closed and their hearts hardened against Him (4:18).

But, can sin separate a Christ-follower from God? The prophet Isaiah writes in Isaiah 59:2, "It's your sins that have cut you off from God. Because of your sins, He has turned away and will not listen anymore." It is a frightening place to be "cut off from God". Does that mean He can abandon us? I think it is vital to see who has caused the separation. It is "your" sin". Because of "your sins". It is our acts of sinfulness against a holy God that separates us from the Lord. God is never the initiator. He does not separate Himself from us, but we separate ourselves from Him. Think back to Adam and Eve in the garden. Sin separated, causing Adam and Eve to hide, but God came looking to find them.

God's proximity to us is not affected by sin, but His intimacy is impacted. As believers, our position in Christ is forever secure, but if we act in unfaithfulness our fellowship with the Lord can be broken. We can become spiritually barren in our sin and miss the blessings of God's promises. All sin is an act of rebellion against God and consequences follow disobedience. Sin does not disconnect us from our status of being justified through the life and death of our Saviour Jesus Christ, but it greatly impairs our fellowship with our Heavenly Father.

God's promise is true: "I will never leave you or abandon you." (Hebrews 13:5 ESV) However, when we choose to sin, even though God will not leave us, nor will we lose our salvation, we will face a sense of separation if we persist in disobedience. Consider an earthly friendship. We might be sitting right beside a friend who is still very present in our lives, but because of a disagreement or misunderstanding, the companionship that was once enjoyed is temporarily strained because there is something standing between the relationship. There is still deep love for one another, but closeness has been severed. Until the air is cleared there can be a loss of love, joy and peace. The same is true with our connection to the Lord. He is still with us, but until we repent of our sin, our fellowship with God cannot be restored.

Sin will not cause us to lose our salvation if we are truly a child of God. If it did, then our sin would be more powerful than the blood of Christ. Even in our sin God does not or will not abandon us. "Sin is mighty; but there is one thing that it cannot do, it cannot make God forsake those whom He has adopted into His family." (Meyer)

I do not know who needs this reminder today, but God is still your God. He has not abandoned you. If there is something standing as a wedge between your relationship with Him, now is the time to confess and seek forgiveness. Immediately intimacy will be restored. As with Adam and Eve, He is nearby, looking for you and waiting for you to acknowledge and desire Him again.

Defining Good

"...The LORD will withhold no good thing from those who do what is right." Psalm 84:11b

Read that key verse again. Do we really believe it? Do we honestly, in the deepest part of our hearts, truly trust that God will not withhold any good thing from those who are walking in obedience with Him? A couple of days ago I listened to the testimony of a faithful missionary couple who were serving with their young family in Trinidad and Tobago. They had answered God's call to follow the Lord and go to a foreign land to share the gospel. They were definitely, without question "doing what was right", but while home on furlough, eight years into this walk of obedience, they received the devastating news that the wife was diagnosed with an advanced cancer, and within about six weeks, she died. 

This is not an uncommon story. Even while writing this, I was interrupted by a phone message. A sweet friend just found out she lost her job today. Where is the good? I'm sure each of us could insert our own story of apparent "unfairness". If God is really not "withholding good" why does so much seem "un-good"?

You know, we could go back to the Garden of Eden. We might say that even there God "withheld good". Scripture tells us that Adam and Eve were instructed they could eat from any tree except one. There was one tree that was forbidden. They were not to eat the fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Satan was able to convince Adam and Eve that God was "withholding good".

Have you ever watched a couple of toddlers at play? Until one finds a toy fascinating the other has not even noticed it, but suddenly that one toy becomes the focus of both children. The toy is not evil, but our longings so selfish. The enemy caused our first parents to desire what they could not attain. Often our desires, although seemingly good to us, are not good to God.

The apostle Paul could have said that he missed out on "good". He prayed multiple times for a "thorn" to be removed and yet it remained. How is that good? We perceive "good" as the "toy", the "fruit" or the "healing", but God perceives it as the grace to grow.

Maybe we need to start by describing what is "good" and by whose standard is something considered "good"? I think God's dictionary would define words much differently than we would. We cannot imagine how "good" would include loss, health challenges, unfilled longings, broken dreams, or unmet expectations. Our "good" would be synonymous with prosperity, wealth, health, caring family, great job, loving marriage and perfect children. We wrestle with the tension of our good and God's good. We question, "Lord, have we not followed Your call on our lives faithfully? Why are You withholding from us?" It can be a hard truth to believe, that God does not withhold good, especially in the face of circumstances we do not understand. Yet, even when it does not feel good, we can trust it is good.

In hindsight we can look back on hard situations or on lonely lives and see that eventually there was tremendous fruit from difficult seasons, but what is often challenging is knowing that "good" to God often involves adversity. In every trial, the good thing the Lord never withholds is more of Himself, for truly only God is good. Jesus Himself said in Mark 10:18, "'Why do you call Me good?' Jesus asked. 'Only God is truly good.'"

God Himself is the "good thing" that He does not withhold from us. It is often only when our lives are interrupted by some unwelcomed event that our hearts open to realize that everything we defined as "good" is now counted loss compared to the treasure of knowing God, and He will never withhold His presence from the child earnestly seeking Him. If you are angry, confused, heartbroken, and questioning what the Lord has allowed to touch your life, please do not lose hope. The circumstance may be the furthest thing from good, but God knows the good that will be birthed through what He allows as we depend on Him. Keep trusting and living faithfully. He loves you.

Desperately Seeking God

"Are you seeking great things for yourself? Don't do it!..." Jeremiah 45:5a

WOW! That is quite the question. Are we seeking great things for ourselves?

I personally cannot deny when there have been times that I would like to receive a few accolades for some incredible accomplishment. I no doubt erroneously associate acceptance with approval, position with popularity, friendship with fame, and respect with recognition. I confess that I sometimes desire to do something great. I want my life to be pleasing to the Lord, but what is my motivation? What is my purpose for longing for bigger dreams and larger visions? God cares so much more about who I am than what I do to achieve success. If given the choice, He will always choose character over competency. I tend to measure "great" and "small" by the world's standards, falling short of expectations...not God's...but mine.

Do I desperately seek great things, not so much for my own benefit, but so others can see God as great? Whose name will be remembered when all is said and done?

Lord, we often look at others who have achieved "greatness" in our eyes and we feel so insignificant. Remind us again that our worth is not found in what we do. Help us obey with greatness without seeking greatness in any task You ask of us. May we not qualify and rate opportunities You place before us, ranking them in order according to human understanding.

The card written and mailed...great.

The email of encouragement sent...great.

The surprise gift left on the porch...great.

The meal delivered...great.

The chore completed...great.

The word of blessing spoken...great.

The baby rocked...great.

The playtime at the park...great.

The prayer lifted...great.

The tears shared...great.

The forgiveness extended...great.

The misunderstanding covered in love...great.

The hug given...great.

The time in His Word...great.

The cold cup of water humbly given to just one in God's name has lasting value for eternity. May the only great thing we seek be You, for You alone are great.

The Blessings of Trust

"The LORD had given the following message to Jeremiah while he was still in prison: 'Say to Ebed-melech the Ethiopian, This is what the LORD of Heaven's Armies, the God of Israel says: I will do to this city everything I have threatened. I will send disaster, not prosperity. You will see its destruction, but I will rescue you from those you fear so much. Because you trusted Me, I will give you your life as a reward. I will rescue you and keep you safe. I, the LORD, have spoken!'" Jeremiah 39: 15-18

Doing the "right thing" and faithfully walking with the Lord can bring challenges. Most often what our Heavenly Father asks of us is contrary to the majority around us. To stand against evil takes unwavering commitment to God for obedience to follow.

Reading about Ebed-melech the Ethiopian, I had to recall what he had done that resulted in rescue. Turning back to Jeremiah 38, I was reminded how the officials, offended and opposed to Jeremiah's message, had been granted permission from King Zedekiah to do whatever they wanted with the prophet. In an act of defiance and cruelty, they "lowered him by ropes into an empty cistern in the prison yard." Scripture tells us that "there was no water in the cistern, but there was a thick layer of mud at the bottom, and Jeremiah sank down into it."

Enter our unexpected hero! Ebed-melech the Ethiopian, heard about Jeremiah's plight, rushed to the palace to report to the king and was given permission to take thirty men with him and pull the prophet from the pit before he died. He risked everything to do the right thing and was now being rewarded by God.

There are blessings for trusting the Lord and walking in obedience. This story brings to mind other faithful followers like Esther, Daniel, David, Rahab, Caleb, Joshua and so many others who took tremendous steps of faith. It also shifts my thoughts to precious Christ-followers in our day who despite all the darts thrown their way, unexpected situations, heartache and pain, illness and loss, consciously choose to keep walking through difficulties with love, grace and praise.

Just a couple of days ago I heard a testimony of a couple who have every reason to be in despair. Hard knock after hard knock have been pelting on their door, yet an unbeliever watching them is taking note. This couples attitude, response and respect is being noticed by one who has resisted the Lord for years. This observer is marveling at the grace and peace being evidenced by his friends. This onlooker, having never seen such a response before, is lost for words. The unwavering trust being evidenced is unexplainable as this family continues to do what is right in a God-honouring way.

But others around us are not the only ones who notice when we choose to follow the Lord. God Himself takes note. Ebed-melech had not been promised a blessing for his actions that day with Jeremiah, but God saw all he had done and rescued him, just as the Ethiopian had rescued the prophet. I think sometimes when blessings do not immediately follow obedience we can question if God has even seen our actions, but rest assured He does. Because Ebed-melech had trusted in the Lord, his life was spared.

Ebed-melech represents those who stand alone. His life is an illustration for times when we feel insignificant. God desires to use every life for His purposes. This very-little-known hero also gives evidence to the truth that situations can change. The same king who gave Jeremiah's accusers full reign to put him in the cistern, now not only agrees to the Ethiopian's request to recover him, but sends men to assist as well. We can never allow a situation to seem defeated. Not with our God. Ebed-melech did not resign himself to the evidence at hand, but persisted in doing the next right thing, believing that circumstances can change. Sometimes it only takes one person. And God blessed his actions, rewarding him with protection and life.

What step can you take today in the midst of uncertainty? God is still a Rescuer and there are blessings that follow steps of trust.

The Struggle To Surrender

"But I am afraid to surrender..." Jeremiah 38:19a

Surrender is not a popular word. It implies giving up. Letting go. Losing.

Why are we, like King Zedekiah in Jeremiah 38, so afraid to surrender? In the king's case, surrendering to the enemy did not make any sense. He wanted to fight against the Babylonians, but resistance would be both foolish and futile since God was using this opposing army as His weapon of judgement against Judah. Standing against them would just prolong the agony, not change the outcome. Surrender would mean the city of Jerusalem would indeed be conquered, but not destroyed. King Zedekiah's surrender would not only spare his life, but the lives of his family.

Fear often stands in the way of our obedience. Even when the message to us is clear, we can lack the courage to take the steps of faith required. If we would only realize that surrender is always the safest path.

In a song Steven Curtis Chapman sings, "The Sake of the Call", there is a line that expresses the heart of surrender: "Simply because it is Jesus who called, And if we believe we'll obey."

Believe what?

That the way will be easy? No.

That God can be trusted? Yes.

It is not so much believe what, but believe Who.

It comes down to a matter of trust.

Do I trust the Lord with my life?

In Psalm 81, Asaph in recounting the Lord's provision for the Israelites, records how God tested their faith. When a thirsty people cried out to the Lord, He miraculously provided water. Trust walks hand-in-hand with surrender and must be tried to be true. It is not difficult to surrender to a known, desired outcome, but placing our lives in the care of another when the path ahead may include hardship, takes trusting in the One who holds each moment of every day. We far too often equate surrender with assignments to foreign countries, or testimonies of the Lord's provision through disease or broken relationships, or a variety of other difficulties, forgetting the love of God.

Surrender means relinquishing control and desiring God's plans above our own. In surrendering we are allowing God to embrace us fully. 

If we really know God intimately, placing our life in His hands should be easy, because no-one loves or cares for us more. Maybe it is hard, and we are so fearful, because in any other relationship with surrender, love and trust have been accompanied with great risk and at times resulted in deep pain.

Surrender to God is not confining, but defining. It is not debilitating, but liberating. Our lives are not compromised in any way, but instead the Lord's promised truths are experienced as our trust increases.

"We are most fully alive when we are most fully surrendered to God." (Author unknown)

"For the eyes of the LORD move to and fro throughout the earth that He may strongly support those whose heart is completely His." (2 Chronicles 16:9) Does my life receive the pause of His gaze? Longing to be "completely His."

"All to Jesus I surrender, All to Thee I freely give."

Shine On Us

"...Make Your face shine down upon us. Only then will we be saved." Psalm 80:3b, 7b, 19b

God's face, in grace, shines on us. Echoing the beautiful priestly blessing found in Numbers 6, the Psalmist desires the Lord's countenance to shine upon His people. In May of 2021 David Platt penned a beautiful prayer based on this desire, and I am going to personalize it below. Our greatest need is to have God's face to shine upon us.

"God, I pray that Your face would shine upon us today. If I could just intercede for all believers right now, God, I pray that Your favor would be theirs, Your strength would be theirs, Your help would be theirs. Oh God shine upon us with Your mercy, with Your comfort. Shine upon us with Your wisdom. Shine upon us with Your power. Oh God, shine upon us with everything we need today.

May we live in the fullness of Your face shining upon us and may we know that this reality is ours through Jesus, that we don't have to earn Your face shining upon us, that this is a reality based on faith in Jesus, in Your salvation, that You have made this possible, Lord Jesus, for us. So may Your face shine upon me, us today and

God, we pray this. We pray this for more and more people, for people all around us, God, for people around the world. May Your face shine among the lost, lonely and despairing. We pray for the refugees who have been driven from their land. We lift up those hurting from recent loss where hurricanes, mudslides, tornadoes and other storms of nature have claimed lives, demolished homes and stolen hope. God, that they would know Your shining face, Your salvation. Lord we pray that for more and more people around us, that You would use us to share the gospel with them, even as we praise You for the reality of Your face shining upon us today. Help us to live today in light of that reality, knowing this is our greatest need for Your face to shine upon us."

In the lyrics from the song written by Deborah and Michael W. Smith, Lord we ask, would You shine on us.

"Lord, let Your light, light of Your face, Shine on us

Lord, let Your light, light of Your face, Shine on us

That we may be saved, That we may have life

To find our way in the darkest night

Let Your light shine on us

Lord, let Your grace, grace from Your hand, Fall on us

Lord, let Your grace, grace from Your hand, Fall on us

That we may be saved, That we may have life

To find our way in the darkest night

Let Your grace Fall on us

Lord, let Your love, love with no end, Come over us

Lord, let Your love, love with no end, Come over us

That we may be saved, That we may have life

To find our way in the darkest night

Let Your love come over us"

Prayer adapted from David Platt, radical.net/podcast/pray-the-word/God's-gracious-deliverance/Psalm-8019/ May 27, 2021

Shine On Us lyrics copyright BMG Rights Management, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc

Again and Again

"But I have spoken to you again and again, and you refuse to obey Me. Time after time I sent you prophets, who told you, 'Turn from your wicked ways, and start doing things right. Stop worshiping other gods so that you might live in peace here in the land I have given to you and your ancestors.' But you would not listen to Me or obey Me." Jeremiah 35:14b-15

Think of situation where you have to repeat yourself over and over again. Maybe it is a request of a child. "I've asked you three times now. Please put that away and come to the table. It is dinner time!" It also possibly happens when sharing details to a situation, or when explaining reasons why the expected has not happened yet. Maybe it is in response to a relentless "Why?" Over and over, like a broken record, we hit play on the same message but it appears to be falling on deaf ears. We become frustrated and weary. Why won't they just listen! Sound familiar? 

God knows exactly how we feel. Again and again throughout Scripture the Lord sent prophets to caution the people but they refused to listen. I fear very little has changed over the course of history. God persistently sent messengers thousands of years ago, and still today there are Pastors proclaiming truth, authors admonishing the message faithfully, missionaries making known the way of salvation, not to dismiss the effort of every Christ-follower whose calling it is to be the feet that bring good news. So why are so many walking around with fingers tightly in their ears?

Many people turn down the volume and completely zone out when announcements are repeated. Have you ever flown on an airplane? The poor attendant who shares the flight safety instructions, although physically having a captive audience, receives very little attention. It is no wonder that some airlines have gone to great lengths to enliven these instructions, using celebrities, musical jingles and other antics as no one wants to hear what to do in the face of potential disaster. They do not even want to consider the possibility of approaching doom. The thing is, most airplanes do not crash, but the warnings God issues again and again in scripture, and the way of rescue and escape are desperately needed as we will all encounter this end. Just as passengers on any flight should pay attention in order to save themselves should trouble arise, God has provided a way for all mankind to be saved.

We do not have prophets today, but we have God's Word and the Holy Spirit to instruct us. God also creatively uses a variety of means like music, other believers, circumstances, His still small voice, as well as dreams and visions to share His message. Scripture tells us that no one has an excuse. Romans 1:20 says, "For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see His visible qualities - His eternal power and divine nature. So, they have no excuse for not knowing God." Even those who refuse to listen have eyes to see.

Although God will faithfully continue to deliver His message again and again until Christ's return, people still choose to ignore their need for a Saviour. Many of the lost do not recognize or acknowledge that they are sinners. Believing they can get to heaven by acts of goodness, they refuse to understand the perilous place they are in by deceiving themselves. Whatever the reason, those rejecting the message and refusing to listen will find themselves with disastrous eternal consequences.

If you are reading this and you have not responded to Christ's invitation of salvation, He has you here for a purpose. It is still not too late. God is exceptionally patient with mankind, desiring that none will perish (2 Peter 3:9), but Genesis 6:3 tells us that He will not tolerate the rebellion of human hearts forever. As kind, gracious, loving and tolerant as God is, He will not put up with sinful disobedience and rejection indefinitely. Jesus said in Luke 13:3, "you will perish too, unless you repent of your sins and turn to God." Do not waste this "again moment". It is time to listen and respond.

Coming Home

"They will come home..." Jeremiah 31:12a

When my son was a child, every Tuesday I found myself sitting in a music studio for an hour while he had his piano lesson. Half of the time his teacher devoted to written theory instruction and the remainder of the hour was spent at the piano preparing for his practical exam. Although I could just drop him off, choosing to use the opportunity to run errands, I actually looked forward to this hour each week. I would take note paper and write letters, or bring a book and have an excuse to sit and read, or prepare for a Bible study I was facilitating, basically enjoying some uninterrupted time on my own.

I recall one day as I was giving half-an-ear to his teacher as she reinforced some Analysis and Counterpoint rules, I heard her give this advice: "If at all possible, always come home." She was referencing when writing music how it was best to end a composition in the tonic or "home" key. Her direction spoke deeply to my heart.

Coming home. This is a repeated message from God through the prophet Jeremiah. Over and over again we read that God will bring the captive people home again. Oh to respond to that invitation. God is calling us all to "come home". To come home to peace. To come home to rest. To come home to forgiveness. To come home to hope. To come home to acceptance. To come home to freedom. To come home to love. Being a wilderness wanderer myself at times, I am so thankful that God always has the welcome mat out, the door open and the porchlight on.

Not only is there always a welcome, but God Himself is waiting and watching for us. He does not scold us for leaving. He does not list all the "I told you so's". He does not gloat over the failure that may have prompted our return. He does not lay a guilt-trip on us or list our faults. He offers us a shoulder to cry on. His arms of love encircle us. He smiles and holds us tight. He knows exactly where we have been, but at this moment, that does not matter. What thrills His heart is where we are right now. We have made a decision to come home.

"From Now On", a song from the movie musical "The Greatest Showman" has lyrics that move my heart every time I hear them. The main character, P. T. Barnum, had chased his dreams but in doing so left behind all that was truly treasured and valued. It took losing everything for his heart to remember what was lasting, and from the rubble he saw what still remained and it led him to return home. Repeatedly the chorus swells as you watch Barnum hastily making his way back to all that matters as the lyrics continue, "And we will come back home, and we will come back home, home again!"

Do you need to come home today? God is looking with longing for you. If the journey seems too far, the distance too great, remember, the first step is always the hardest. Recall the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15. It says in verse 20, "But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him." This is the only time in the entire Word of God when the Lord is characterized as running. Let that grip your heart. Do you understand what makes God run? A child coming home.

God is the same yesterday, today and forever. He is still running towards anyone who turns their heart toward home. It does not matter what forces our return. I heard once that it was not pangs of conscience that sent the prodigal son home, but pangs of hunger. The prodigal son did not go home until his desperation was greater than his pride. God will use whatever it takes to bring someone back home, even if it is just to satisfy our own personal needs. Take that first step and you will find you are home. Zephaniah 3:20 says, "At that time I will bring you home." Let God be your dwelling place today in whatever situation you are facing. Do not just call home, come home.

'Yes' Without Success

"Then Jeremiah spoke to the officials and the people in his own defense. 'The LORD sent me to prophesy against this Temple and this city,' he said. 'The LORD gave me every word that I have spoken. But if you stop your sinning and begin to obey the LORD your God, He will change His mind about this disaster that He has announced against you. As for me, I am in your hands - do with me as you think best. But if you kill me, rest assured that you will be killing an innocent man! The responsibility for such a deed will lie on you, on this city, and on every person living in it. For it is absolutely true that the LORD sent me to speak every word you have heard." Jeremiah 26:12-15

Sometimes life just seems so unfair.

There are many stories of individuals just like Jeremiah who receive a call from God on their life. Immediately they respond with excitement, imagining the glorious outcome of their obedience, but instead are faced with discouragement and opposition. How do we handle times when we know we are doing what is right, walking in step with the Lord, but rather than the delight and joy we thought would accompany our calling, results are miniscule, we are not accepted as we expected, and some even openly stand in the way against us? In frustration edged with anger we cry out to the Lord, "But Father, I said 'yes' to You. Why is there not more fruit and opportunities?"

The prophet Jeremiah was called to speak to the nation of Judah on God's behalf. Jeremiah was faithful to deliver every message the Lord led him to share, but because his words spoke against the sin of the people, with clearly defined consequences to come, he was now facing the possibility of death at the hands of the very ones God had sent him to caution. If these people remained unrepentant, they would face coming disaster.

Jeremiah was doing everything right. He was following God. Sharing His word. Yet despite the prophet's faithful efforts to follow in faith, life became even more difficult. His ministry results were not just lean, they were mean! Maybe we do not experience outright opposition, but our 'yes' to God can be more striving than thriving. All we envisioned at the moment of decision as we joyfully abandoned ourselves to God's call, has been overshadowed by hard work, without the harvest we had anticipated. In our minds we reflect and recall the moment God placed this vocation on our hearts. The invitation is still undeniable. We do not doubt God wants us doing exactly what we are working so diligently to accomplish, but why does it have to be such an uphill climb? Why can it not be easier?

Challenges to our calling our inevitable. One of the tools the enemy uses to his greatest advantage is to discourage us in our calling. He begins resisting us in every area of advancement for Kingdom purposes and discouragement is his weapon of choice. He knows he cannot make us forget the precious moment when God summoned us to service for Him, but he can make life so difficult that we consider abandoning the call. Satan's opposition does not come to those sitting back and doing nothing. It comes to those already in the trenches.

So, what can we do? How can we combat the weariness and frustration? How can we protect our thoughts from accusing God for not fulfilling His part? We need to encourage ourselves that God is still honoured in our 'yes' even when all evidence of impact is unseen. Our 'yes' is not about results. Our 'yes' is about obedience. Jeremiah delivered God's message, and the responsibility of the outcome is God's, and does not reflect on the prophet's efforts. Our 'yes' is no less in the eyes of God when the outcome we had hoped for does not appear to be reached. When the congregation is small. When the spouse is unfaithful. When the funds are diminishing. When the books do not sell. When the invitations to speak are few. When the mothering seems thankless. When the boss is unappreciative. When will we finally accept and understand that obedience to God's call is not about success, but instead our 'yes' reveals our love to Him.

A flower that blooms unseen in a remote location still gives testimony to God's amazing creation. If it's petals all fall before ever being noticed, it has still fulfilled its purpose for the Lord and He is pleased. Keep blooming friend. Do not give up. You are exactly where God desires you to be. Wait on Him for the next move and all the results. 

The LORD Is Our Righteousness

"And this will be His name: 'The LORD Is Our Righteousness.'" Jeremiah 23:6

Sometimes I think for those of us who grew up in the church since birth, we have sadly become too accustomed to hearing familiar Bible verses. Listening to the same scriptures being read since our nursery days, we sit back comfortably when we recognize a phrase or passage that has often been repeated in our hearing. We can almost cruise on autopilot, and miss out on understanding or comprehending the truth. In its familiarity we respond to the most amazing and incredible truths as common. Reading through Jeremiah 23 that is exactly what happened to me. 

If we were to take a quiz right now, and I asked you to list the names of God found in Scripture, I'm sure together we could come up with an impressive compilation. We can recite them easily and could probably tag on a few scripture references too, but have we truly stopped to consider the meaning of each title? God's names help to describe and define His character and His actions. Each name highlights a specific part of His nature. Today we are considering what it means that 'The LORD Is Our Righteousness.'

First, we need to understand righteousness. To live righteously involves acting justly, honestly, faithfully, obediently and morally right. Just writing those words I am exhausted. This standard of living is impossible on our own, but then add to that God's requirement for righteousness, which is perfection in action, attribute and attitude, and the expected grade is overwhelming. This is where this particular name of God washes over our lives bringing sweet relief. 'The LORD Is Our Righteousness.'

On our own, we cannot attain this level of living. 2 Corinthians 5:21 brings us the answer. "For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ." The New International Version writes it this way, "God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God." This means, that sinners saved by grace, become the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus. This is how fallen humans are restored and reconciled in relationship to our Creator God. This great exchange of our sin for Christ's righteousness is our salvation. This is not about the goodness of man, but we become "the righteousness of God." 

Without exception, Paul tells us in Romans 3:10, that no one is righteous, no not one. Our nature is evil and our hearts are wicked. Without Christ we live in total depravity. Even the good things we do fall so short of the holiness of God. We cannot achieve the righteousness God requires on our own. In this beautiful name of Christ, at salvation the Lord's righteousness becomes our righteousness through His death on the cross. This is guaranteed and not disputable, however, the practical application of living completely righteously through the power of the Holy Spirit will not be perfected until heaven. Romans 6 encourages us to be "instruments of righteousness", and that will happen as we yield ourselves more and more to Christ's lordship.

God's name, "The LORD Is Our Righteousness", is a name of hope. The prophecy of a righteous descendent from the lineage of David arising, ruling with wisdom and justice is now accomplished. We see this fulfillment through Jesus Christ. For those of us who have responded to Christ's invitation, believing in Him, repenting and receiving forgiveness of our sins, God has clothed us in garments of salvation and robed us in righteousness (Isaiah 61:10).

For Christ-followers, "The LORD Is Our Righteousness." The question to ask today, are you trusting in the Lord as "your" personal righteousness? Turn to Him today and experience this name of God over your life.

Keeping Up Appearances

"But a beautiful cedar palace does not make a great king!" Jeremiah 22:15a

Years ago, I recall watching the television program, "Keeping Up Appearances". It was a British sitcom largely focused on the life of one couple, their grown son, and the neighbourhood in which they lived. Richard's wife, Hyacinth, exhaustingly desired to portray an image of social superiority. Her continual efforts to hide her actual status were comically hindered by her lower-class relatives. Extending invitations to her "candlelight dinners", she aimed to impress by extravagance and unnecessary purchases. However, possessions do not make a person, just as a cedar palace does not make a great king.

Jehoiakim may have inherited his father's Josiah's wealth, but he did not and could not inherit his faith. A magnificent castle does not guarantee moral character. Greatness is not achieved by the accumulation of great things. Good to great happens through obedience and a personal relationship with the Lord. 

Appearances come with automatic presumptions. We have all heard the adage that sitting in a garage does not make one a car, and going to church does not make one a Christ-follower. The external "beautiful cedar palace" is only the face, not the heart.

The world tries to achieve greatness through position, power, possessions, people, promotion and pride, often portraying to the world a false identity. These are all empty investments. God's Word reminds us in Luke 12:15, "for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions." We may have earthly wealth and success, be recognized by others as an influencer, but our security is not found in the lives we build, but in taking "hold of that which is life indeed." (1 Timothy 6:19)

Thoughts wander to Judas. "Judas bore the cloak of religion, but never knew the heart of Christ." (Max Lucado) This disciple, turned deceiver, betrayed his Saviour while having only a "form of godliness." Jesus is not deceived by the cedar castles we build or the cloaks we wear. He looks past all the exterior façade and pretending. Our castles and cloaks can be a false security, but building on Christ as our foundation will ensure a mansion for eternity. Maybe it is time to examine ourselves again.

First, have I had a personal encounter with the Lord? Was there a point in time when a decision was made to follow Him, not just in word, but by confession, repentance and surrender? Have I received God's forgiveness through the sacrifice of Christ on the cross? Have I turned away from past sinful behaviour or am I still living the same way? What has changed, or what is changing? Is their evidence of obedience to God's Word? Do I choose Scripture that validates my desires or do I let the Lord run a fine-tooth comb through my life, removing any of the tangled mess that still remains? Am I clinging to old habits, thoughts, language, feelings? How do I spend my time? Is God a priority? Am I daily in His Word and in prayer? Is my longing for Him growing and my desire for the Holy Spirit increasing? Have I been baptized? Do I have more than belief in a God, knowing the God intimately as my personal Heavenly Father? Do I speak to Him? Do I recognize Him speaking to me? Is my walk more than castles and cloaks?

One of the primary ways we will know if our foundation is built firmly is by the fruit that the Holy Spirit grows through our lives. Not just some fruit, but increasing fruit. A tree that yields more and more produce every year is the result of roots growing deeper and deeper into the rich soil of God's Word. May our fruit reflect a dedication to God and not to growing an embellished image of self that is only concerned about keeping up appearances. Maybe some cedar palaces need to be abandoned for the sake of God's glory.

Green Leaf In Drought Time

"...blessed are those who trust in the LORD and have made the LORD their hope and confidence. They are like trees planted along a riverbank, with roots that reach deep into the water. Such trees are not bothered by the heat or worried by long months of drought. Their leaves stay green, and they never stop producing fruit." Jeremiah 17:7-8

My favourite genre of Christian literature is biographies. I have shelves of books that I cannot part with, filled with testimonies and personal stories of tragedies and triumphs as godly ones walk with the Lord. I have rejoiced over the lives of past and present men and women who have openly shared their struggles. I have also often seen the miraculous touch of God on their lives. What encouragement it has been to me, as I have read of their endurance and faithfulness. Every person becomes a dear and precious friend. Each story renews hope in my own heart. 

I have rejoiced with David Green, owner of Hobby Lobby, in seeing God's incredible victory before the United States Supreme Court. I have evidenced the extraordinary connection between prayer and provision as I read of George Mueller's complete dependency on God as he directed several orphanage buildings in Bristol, England. To be honest, I actually cried reading of his death at the conclusion of "Delighted in God" as his life story made such a lasting impression on me. Examples of being a supportive wife are revealed through the life of Susannah Spurgeon, and a beautiful, covenant marriage is highlighted through the missionaries to China, Jonathan and Rosalind Goforth. Other names such as Elisabeth Elliott, Amy Carmichael, Peter Marshall, Eric Liddell along with countless others, fill my bookshelves. But, one couple who may be little known, lived lives that reflect today's verses from Jeremiah so well.

It is rare to read a biography where its pages are filled with hardship, difficulty and perseverance that never seem to be awarded. With anticipation, the reader keeps waiting to see a mighty turn-around by the hand of God, but in the lifetime of these heroes of the faith, it does not come. The unrelentingly harsh and discouraging ministry of Wilda and Arthur Mathews, the last of the missionaries to escape from the merciless hand of Chinese communists, appears unrewarded from chapter to chapter.

Through every page the readers heart is hoping to see a blessing, some ease, a release from the trials, accusations and persecutions this dear couple faced as they served, but every paragraph revealed yet another new burden or hardship. The unbelievable hope and strength that this couple maintained only came from the Lord as they faced every extreme situation they met with a song in their hearts lifted in praise to God. In the biography, "Green Leaf in Drought-time", Wilda and Arthur share how "greenness" is not dependent on the resources that would normally make foliage plentiful, but only by complete dependence on the Lord.

"Drought" can come unexpectedly. When God allows trial upon trial, our response is most often discouragement. We become overwhelmed. We wonder if God is upset with us for some unknown reason, and yet His purpose is for us to "grow green" and display His glory. It is His desire that our lives are never, not for a moment, interrupted from fruit bearing even through difficult seasons.

The famous Muppet, Kermit the Frog, knew this truth well when he would sing, "It's not easy being green." It's hard to thrive amidst continual attack. Finding ourselves suddenly in the middle of situations that threaten to weaken our resolve, what we are speaks louder than what we say. When our message is silenced and our evangelism forbidden. When our ministry is dry and the invitations to speak and serve stop coming. It is in these opportunities that God proves through the life of His children that green leaves are still possible, and that His promises are still true today. "The Lord shall satisfy their soul in drought." (Isaiah 58:11)

God calls us to be leaves that remain green on parched ground. The testimony of a life flourishing in the face of adversity draws attention, not to the thriving survivor, but to the gracious, sustaining hand of God.

More Than

"Whom have I in heaven but You? I desire You more than anything on earth." Psalm 73:25

"More than anything." Does our desire for the Lord truly fall under this category? Is He more than all else for which our heart longs?

More than a desire to be loved and accepted by others.

More than longing for perfect health.

More than searching for temporary satisfactions.

More than striving for any materialistic gain.

More than constantly struggling to please others.

More than attempting to keep up appearances.

More than answers to heartfelt prayers.

More than working for any financial gain.

More than any worldly success.

More than yearning to know and be known.

More than a hunger to see and be seen.

More than any aspiration for contentment and happiness.

More than needing safety and security.

More than a propensity to eliminate pain.

More than temporary fulfillment in temptations.

More than an attraction for miracles and the miraculous.

More than the battle for increased trust.

More than relishing Your benefits and blessings.

More than a desire for what You do...I long for who You are.

"I desire You more than anything on earth."

Lord, from the deepest part of my heart I want to want You more. I long to say with the Psalmist that nothing else matters and that You alone are my everything. Father, I desire You to occupy my heart. So many things in life, some listed above, truly do matter, but may they not be my most or more. God fill me and consume me. May You be the inclination and initiation of every thought. Surpass the sweetness of all other enticements. Increase my yearning for You, surrendered completely to Your sovereignty over me, in me, and through me. May my every breath be praise and gratitude to You. Jesus, my passion is You. 

Discover. Devour. Delight.

"When I discovered Your words, I devoured them. They are my joy and my heart's delight..." Jeremiah 15:16a

How much do we love God's Word? The prophet Jeremiah is declaring his fulfillment and delight in the Word of God, but sadly his audience does not share his zeal. As Jeremiah faithfully shares God's message to the people of Judah, their response is resistance. The prophet found his personal encouragement through his time in scripture. 

The word "discovered" implies a seeking heart. Far too often we can come with complacency. The discipline of Bible reading can lack the fervour of intent that Jeremiah expressed as he deliberately sought the Lord. The only way for us to sustain any peace or power in our lives is through time pursuing God in secret. 

As the prophet "devoured" God's Word, it became part of him. He absorbed and digested all the teaching. He discovered and immediately took hold of it. He knew the value and without hesitation prioritized comprehending and owning these truths for himself. Sometimes digging is involved to bring understanding and meaning to our reading, but when an instant awakening occurs, how our heart's rejoice.

Spurgeon, commenting on this verse said: "I have said that Jeremiah lets us into a secret. His outer life, consisting in his perpetual faithful ministry, was to be accounted for by his inward love of the word which he preached. Depend upon it, this secret unriddles all true spiritual life. If ever you see any one who walks in holiness stand fast in temptation, and be upheld under affliction, you may rest assured there is something about him that is not perceived by every eye; there is a secret which the world does not know - a hidden fountain, which sustains the stream of his life - an invisible spring of vitality which keeps him vigorous even in the midst of surrounding death." 

I'm surmising that the majority reading this have multiple Bible translations readily available to them, either as paper books, or online. Do we search to find Him and know Him through the pages of this sacred text? Recently I was browsing through devotional books I have used over the past many years, since including God's Word into a daily part of each morning. One such book was gifted to me from a retired missionary when I was only 14 years old. By the time this leather-bound, treasured devotional was passed on to me, his wife, the previous owner, had already gone home to be with her Lord. Her squiggly underlines and comments had been joined with my penned reflections in the margins. There were many pages crinkled with words blurred and blotted from tears that had fallen as a hurting, hungry heart sought the Lord. Tender and touching to see the penmanship of my younger days. Expressions of wonder and awe. Comments of confusion. Requests from a teenager, young and longing for love. I smiled as I found a short prayer for Barry Manilow's salvation, no doubt coming from an infatuation with the singer many years ago.

Each morning it is my time with the Lord that prompts my early rising with ease. I eagerly anticipate what He will say to me that day. His Word speaks through every stage of life. Sometimes it is a Word of conviction. Often it is an answer to a specific prayer. Many times it is a new revelation. At other moments He speaks through a quiet whisper revealing more of His nature to me or sharing a divine secret. Sometimes our time together is long and lingering and it is the clock that dictates the end of our time together, not a feeling of completion. Is He ever silent? Yes, there are days when my journal only contains the date with a sentence or two, but those mornings of seeking are still special. The joy and delight that His Word has become to me welcomes me to trust in the silence and wait patiently. You see, He and I share a history. Over 50 years. A lot of memories. A lot of blessed Mary moments, sitting at the Master's feet.

Ask the Lord to increase your hunger for Him. I know that is a prayer He longs to answer. He longs for His Word to be our joy and our heart's delight. Do not settle for anything less. He alone more than satisfies a famished soul.

Quote: C. H. Spurgeon sermon, "The Secret Food And The Public Name"; a sermon delivered at the Metropolitan Tabernacle, Newington.

Preparing For Horses And Thickets

"If racing against mere men makes you tired, how will you race against horses? If you stumble and fall on open ground, what will you do in the thickets near the Jordan?" Jeremiah 12:5

Have you ever played the game of Monopoly? I am sure most of us are familiar with this game. One of my favourite cards tells the participant to "Advance to Go", not only skipping over some possible roadblocks on the way, but collecting an additional $200!!! Or what about the old "Snakes and Ladders" game? When a token landed on the base of a ladder, the player instantly advanced up the board, often missing rows of traps set along the way. 

There are so many times in life when we catch a vision for a new direction. With excitement we start planning and strategizing to see its fulfillment. The problem being, we often want to jump from inspiration to implementation too quickly. We are not fans of the middle, and the work that must be done to strengthen us and bring lasting results. We want the immediate "Advance to Go" or "Ladder" that will instantly take us closer to completion without the challenges that lie in wait along the way.

This is Jeremiah's problem too. He wants the end result without the in-between. Knowing he is struggling to run with "mere men" and already falling on "open ground", God says the prophet is not ready yet for racing horses or traversing thickets. This is so true in our lives also. "Mere men" and "open ground" problems are the day-to-day roadblocks and discouragements that Satan uses to weaken our resolve so that we will not pursue even greater accomplishments. If he can weary us in the early stages of a new calling, he can defeat us before we get too far. He wants us to give up. But, what if the "mere men" and stumbling on "open ground" are evidence we are following God's will? The enemy never tries to dishearten someone going in his direction.

"Mere men" are the training ground for "horses" and the obstacles on "open ground" prepare us for the denseness of the "thicket" that threatens to prevent us from moving forward. God is strengthening us and developing within us the power needed to endure. Without each step along the way, our resolve actually diminishes. As my friend Lina writes in her Bible study, "Through the Desert", "God is too faithful to withhold from us the riches of the desert places in our lives."

Think of the Israelites and their desire to instantly be removed from Egypt and placed in the Promised Land. They wanted to jump directly from A to Z, but their journey took forty years! We also want instant everything without the work involved to ready us for all God has planned ahead. Exodus 13 tells us that God knew His people, and He also knew that the shortest route was where Egypt's military outposts were located. The Israelites were not ready to face this challenge. The opposing armies would make them change their minds and return to Egypt. God, anticipating the dangers they would face, chose not to send them the shortest way, but the safest way. The "desert" was the "mere men" and "open ground" training field for His people. "Mere men" and "open ground" are never an oversight, but a valuable part of our growth.

Where today are you seeking instant gratification? Don't try to race past the integral part of the journey. Reframe your thoughts to consider not only the situations outcome, but the character development that God is going to all this effort to accomplish so that you will be more like His Son. The time for supernatural victory over "horses" and "thickets" is coming, and He is developing in you today the abilities, courage, endurance and knowledge to be greatly used by Him.

"Through the Desert: A Study On God's Faithfulness", by Dr. Lina Abujamra; Esther Press; copyright 2023

Uncircumcised Hearts

"'A time is coming,' says the LORD, 'when I will l punish all those who are circumcised in body but not in spirit...the people of Israel also have uncircumcised hearts.'" Jeremiah 9:25-26

How is your heart today? 

As Bible-believing, Christ followers, we know through reading God's Word there are many things the Lord desires of us. Do not lie. Do not steal. Love your neighbour. Give to the needy. Practice hospitality. Honour parents. Act righteously. Guard our words. Trust. Serve. Go. Tell. Disciple. Really, the list can seem long and overwhelming, especially if we are only going through a checklist of requirements without the relationship that inspires the obedience.

It is like the story of the child who is told repeatedly to sit down. Over and over again the parent is instructing them to be still. Finally, in resignation, they comply, but with these words, "I'm standing on the inside." Outwardly they may appear to be responding in obedience, but in defiance they are just going through the motions that will hopefully, temporarily, satisfy their elders, with no real desire to submit.

Like Matthew 15:8 and Isaiah 29:13, we can say we belong to the Lord and honour Him with our lips, while our hearts are far from Him. The outward can be so easy. We can pretend and present ourselves in a variety of ways before others.

Walking into the department store, I was browsing through the new clothing fashion trends. I could not help but notice that the camouflage print is still prevalent. There was a time when it only came in "army green", but now it seems to be available in a wide range of colours. Apparently, one can blend in and hide just about anywhere. In the same way, an uncircumcised heart can be concealed by righteous activity.

We can often reach into our closets for some "Christian camouflage" so that we appear as abiding morally to all that Christ desires, but inwardly a battle rages. Visually we look the part, but our attire hides a heart that is unresponsive and wasting away. 

This hypocritical covering needs to be addressed and undressed, and this is exactly what God is calling out through the prophet Jeremiah. Too many assumptions can be made regarding another's spiritual depth when they carry the biggest Bible, facilitate Bible studies, hold a diploma from a Bible school, speak at conferences, and support mission projects, while their heart goes unnoticed. Right answers can be taught, and with ease we can speak the expected words and responses, but they can come from an uncircumcised heart.

Our actions can be like "lip service", an external offering without the accompanying submission. Like the child referenced above, we are "still standing on the inside", doing whatever we please, stubbornly following our own desires. We can act and articulate the anticipated, echoing the expected while hearts are living a lie.

Looks can be so deceiving. Even now I'm thinking of those who have complicated and even life-threatening illnesses, yet as they participate in life as much as they are able, they seem to be "fit as a fiddle", looking healthy. Our spiritual health can also be betrayed by religious hypocrisy. In Matthew 23, Jesus puts it this way, "For you are so careful to clean the outside of the cup and the dish, but inside you are filthy - full of greed and self-indulgence!" Our heart health needs a touch from the Great Physician.

A circumcised heart is not about conforming to a set of standards, but having a heart transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit. Wholeheartedness opens the way for genuine intimacy with God. "Keeping up appearances is the most expensive thing in the world." (A. C. Benson) An uncircumcised heart is costly and compromises all the treasures and blessings the Lord desires to lavish on a life yielded to Him. May it be our desire for the Lord to complete His gracious inner work on our stubborn hearts so that we will love God fully and live for Him alone.

Sound the Alarm!

"I posted watchmen over you who said, 'Listen for the sound of the alarm.' But you replied, 'No! We won't pay attention!'" Jeremiah 6:17

With very dear friends in Naples and Marko Island, I have been attentive to the current course of Hurricane Milton. Watching the news and seeing the predicted path of this furious storm, warnings to evacuate have been issued, some areas with mandatory instructions to leave. I am not insensitive to those who for one reason or another feel the option to flee is beyond their control and must stay sheltered as best they can, but I don't understand those, who despite all the warnings, respond with laughter in the face of disaster. Although many cautions have been delivered, they do not heed the alert of impending danger.

Several times in the past I have been in a shopping mall when the fire alarm rings. It is always incredible to me how the majority of people continue to carry on as if the siren is not even sounding. It is ignored completely. It becomes pointless that schools and buildings practice "fire drills" in preparation of a sudden disaster, when it appears that training is being wasted.

The prophet Jeremiah is warning God's people of the judgement coming. The Lord's people are rejecting Him and there are consequences for their choices. Although the alarm is sounding, Judah is responding in foolishness. The description of approaching destruction is perilous, but the Israelites reply, "No disasters will come upon us." (Jeremiah 5:12) They are knowingly rejecting the fact that they are facing calamity, and placing themselves in dangers path. We may be quick to chastise and condemn such actions, but do we ever act similarly?

Danger is anything that makes us liable to loss, pain or injury. Do we sometimes choose to walk paths of peril? We make dangerous choices daily. We know they are not God-honouring, yet we carry on, disregarding truth, allowing emotions and self to guide the way. We may think, 'Well, at least these choices are not life threatening', but that might not be entirely true. Even our words can be weapons of Satan, leaving a trail of devastation greater than any force of nature.

But there is another road that results in even greater danger and this is the highway of rebellion. Refusing to acknowledge, like the people in Jeremiah's day, that God is God. One day at His return it will be too late to change direction. No one knows the day, the hour, or the time of Christ's reappearing. Unlike the forecast of landfall with serve weather, Jesus will come again like a thief in the night. Scripture declares the gradual, increasing announcements of wars and other disasters as signs of His return. There is opportunity for decisions to be made today. Those who choose to laugh in the face of approaching apocalypse, not ignorant of the truth, but ignoring it's severity, will find themselves tormented in a state of frantic confusion.

Jeremiah so clearly announces, "Run", "Get out", "Send up a signal", "Listen to this warning", but ears are closed, "They don't want to listen at all." (Jeremiah 6:10) Today God implores all who hear His voice to respond (Hebrews 3:7-8). Do not harden your hearts. Do not reply in foolishness, believing you alone will be exempt from devastation. There will come a day when all will be judged, both the living and the dead (1 Peter 4:5).

When warnings are adhered to, lives are spared. While writing this I heard from one dear friend that they have been able to remove themselves from the track of the storm. Maybe this is a warning today that you too need to move your heart and be prepared for Christ's return. If you are not ready for the sudden evacuation from earth to heaven, a decision today can change your life forever. Christ is the Eye of the storm. He is the calm in the center of life's chaos. Turn to Him today. Like some of those who remain behind when warnings of approaching disaster are given, it is the fool who has said in their heart there is no God (Psalm 14:1). For others of us we need to be sounding the alarm when we see flood waters surging in the lives of others. Let's be agents of rescue today as we share the Good News of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Downpour

"You sent abundant rain, O God, to refresh the weary land." Psalm 68:9

"I could use a downpour."

That was part of a message I sent to a friend early this morning. I was not wishing for wet weather, but my heart, like this land, felt weary. Overwhelmed by a variety of heavy concerns touching my life, I was in need of that "abundant rain".

Father, today in Your goodness, You provided. Two sisters, completely unaware of the other's actions, flooded my soul with encouragement, unsolicited, giving testimony that my current concerns had not gone unnoticed. The first came in the way of hymn lyrics that drenched my spirit with the reminder that "Moment by Moment" I am kept by the hand of God. The second arrived as half a dozen links to messages sent to remind me to keep trusting. As I listened to each recording, I was infused with fresh faith. My parched hope was revived. I truly feel like my weariness has been soaked in revival. God has sent "abundant rain". 

here where self and sin and sadness

have displaced the oil of gladness

here in barren desert madness,

weary and dry

cannot run or walk, I'm crawling,

but through shame I hear You calling

clouds of mercy, raindrops falling

downpour, I need a downpour

come, come like the rain,

wash every stain, fall upon me Jesus

river of God, flooding with joy, 

rise up in me Jesus

into my heart's desolation

flows the water of salvation

fill this lowly wasteland with the

shower from above

only You can quench my thirsting,

fill until my heart is bursting

Jesus ever be the first thing

downpour, I need a downpour

come, come like the rain,

wash every stain, fall upon me Jesus

river of God, flooding with joy,

rise up in me Jesus

Words by James McDonald; Music by Andi Rozier; Copyright 2006, Harvest Songs