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

Selah

"May God be gracious to us and bless us and make His face to shine upon us, Selah " Psalm 67:1 (ESV)

A small 5-letter word caught my attention. "Selah". The actual meaning and interpretation of this pronouncement is quite a mystery. Biblical scholars continue to debate its meaning, but its placement in scripture can help give it possible definition. Most frequently it is used to draw attention to the text that preceded it. Pause and ponder. Take time and think about. Reflect and remember. The Psalmist is encouraging the reader to stop and consider how gracious God is to us and the blessings He bestows. Paul is using priestly language, recognizing his need for mercy and desire for God's favour. He wants to know that God is looking at his life and finding reason to smile, being well-pleased, not because of accomplishments achieved, but because we are His and our lives are hidden in Christ.

How has God showed His grace, extended His blessing and caused His face to shine on us? We need to deliberately contemplate so we can celebrate the goodness and faithfulness of God. When we meditate on the grace-markers and blessings in our lives, it results in thanksgiving and praise. We shouldn't have to think back over weeks, months and even years, but today, where do we see God's hand of grace and blessing right now?

In the last 24-hours God has certainly been gracious to me, blessing me in ways that are so personal and tender to my heart. His kindness arrived in areas many would consider silly or small, but to me it was evidence of God's love and care over the details of my life and the longings of my heart. I had surrendered two very specific desires to the Lord, yielding completely, and relinquishing the outcomes to Him. Both seemed impossible to be fulfilled immediately, but maybe in time they would happen. I yielded them to the Lord, and in incredible grace, He desired to bless me with not one, but two desires, and my heart can barely contain my praise! A Selah protects from these moments rushing by as coincidence, as we acknowledge the hand of God.

Along with the instruction to stop and consider, Selah also invites the reader to listen. It provides an opportunity to welcome silence. Quietness is a rare occurrence in our lives. We need to breathe in deeply the presence of the Lord with us until we recognize His holy quietness that brings assurance of His closeness. God is gifting us a moment to draw near and know His with-ness. Once noise is stilled, our hearts are open to hear God's voice.

In my study of Selah, I also discovered it implies forever. A Selah is not just to be an occasional, but an ongoing discipline. Too often we can rush through our reading of God's Word, neglecting time to see and understand His character, and so by inspiration of the Holy Spirit, there are said to be recorded 74 uses of this word. Like the reference of "seventy times seven" in Matthew 18:22 KJV, each repetition should draw our attention to the importance of continuing to put this pause into practice. 

A final definition offered, is a moment of praise. Truly that should be the conclusion of each of these possible renderings. From calm reflection, to a loud crescendo of rejoicing, Selah breaks into our thoughts as a reminder to refocus on the truths we have just read for the purpose of worshipping God. 

Frequently placed in the middle of a text, it summons us not to wait until the completion of the passage, but to pause right here, right now, to praise, thanks, adore, glorify and revere the Lord. Whatever our understanding of this word, it interrupts our reading for the purpose of reflecting on Christ and recognizing His presence in our lives.

The best response today would be to put this into practice. Selah.

Red Sea Moments

"Come and see what our God has done, what awesome miracles He performs for people! He made a dry path through the Red Sea, and His people went across on foot. There we rejoiced in Him." Psalm 66:5-6

Can you imagine standing on the shore that day? This is not a little stream of water; this is the Red Sea for goodness' sake. Can you even begin to contemplate the courage it took for some of those people to take those initial steps of faith and then continue walking? Were they taken tentatively or tenaciously? I for one certainly would be hurrying. Yet, even as I write that, why would I rush? Do I not believe God will watch over me until I reach the other side? Do I only think He'll take me half-way to His promised land? God made a pathway through the impossible and led them safely to their destination.

Maybe today, you are standing on a shore of a "Red Sea". Not one boat is tied to the dock. No other options ahead. Sea billows round you roll. You feel stuck on the shore without any solution as to how you will cross over to victory. You know others have made the journey ahead of you and trusted in the unseen, but your faith is weak and your fear is strong. You have reached a crisis point and a moment of decision. You stand alone. There is only one way to the other side.

God.

Red Sea moments frighten us because it is at these times, we come face-to-face with a truth that calls for surrender. We realize anew that we are not in control. We stand humbled in the presence of a mighty God and all our words are put to the test. Will we believe that God is able to carry us safely to the other side?

Red Sea moments are crossroads. Will our faith become action? These pathways have tremendous purpose. They put us in a position where we must answer the question, can God be trusted? When everything around us looks completely insurmountable, will we relinquish ourselves and our situation into God's hands?

Red Sea moments are often places of suffering. Much agony travels with us as our accompanying companion. Later in Psalm 66 we read, "We went through fire and flood, but You brought us to a place of great abundance." Our "feet" can burn from the intensity of the flame we encounter as we traverse these roads. Hope can be threatened when around us the "water" level rises, desiring to suffocate. While waiting to see what God will do, in the heat of the blaze, the hot coals singe our thoughts with panic. However, all we go through brings us to a place of rich fulfillment. God's greatness is birthed in pain.

Peter jumped out of a boat.

Daniel did not compromise.

Esther asked to see the King.

A mother and her son collected all their cooking pots.

A father kept his eyes fixed on the horizon.

A young woman believed.

What step of faith do we need to take from our shore today? A Red Sea is waiting to divide.

Vain Controversies

"Don't let them waste their time in endless discussion of myths and spiritual pedigrees. These things only lead to meaningless speculations, which don't help people live a life of faith in God." 1 Timothy 1:4

From a young age my mother taught us the truth of 1 Timothy 1:4. She absolutely refused to engage in discussions that she recognized would not have a fruitful outcome. Unlike a friend who often told me she had the gift of "arguing", (although I'm not certain where that "gift" is ever listed in scripture, but I won't deny that she did it well), my mom refrained from participation in conversations that only seemed to waste time and escalate debate. There was not a confrontational bone in my sweet mom's body. She would stand for truth unwaveringly, but she would not engage involvement in unprofitable talk.

I will confess, that a huge pet peeve of mine is sitting with groups of people, possibly even in a Bible study setting, where the topic starts to stray to either a subject matter that has nothing to do with the text we are considering, or a bunny trail down a part of scripture that even the most learned scholars cannot agree on the explanation. Hearing some opinions on different interpretations can be beneficial, but often those participating in these dialogues are presenting their personal views as precepts. Voices start to increase in volume. Sides are chosen. It is not that they are giving insight, they just want to be right.

Paul is encouraging Timothy to involve himself in exchanges with others that help grow faith in God. Too much time is wasted in "endless discussion of myths and spiritual pedigrees. These things only lead to meaningless speculations" that are not helpful at all. Other translations have expressed this verse as teaching Timothy not to give heed to, or devote himself to, conversations that digress from stewarding scripture well with godly edification.

When precious time to study God's Word gets side-tracked by "silliness" (The Message) we miss out on the opportunity for deepening faith and obedience. Years ago, after the first "Harry Potter" book appeared on the scene, its contents became very controversial among Christians. Some were comparing it to the fantasy of C. S. Lewis, while others felt this literature edged more towards witchcraft and demonic. I still recall listening to a radio program one day where a well-known Pastor was fielding a variety of questions. One woman inquired if this leader of a mega church would prepare a sermon giving his response to the "Harry Potter" craze. This gentleman responded that when he finally ran out of content from God's Word as the basis of his sermons, he might then consider answering this request, implying by his answer that it would never happen.

There are also some mysteries in God's Word that can cause more harm than good if over-analyzed and under-recognized as truths that this side of heaven will never be fully understood. Yes, we want to ask the Holy Spirit to enlighten us, but we are encouraged in Deuteronomy 29:29 to spend more time emphasizing the revealed word of God and calling on Him to help us apply the plain truth that is easy to understand yet hard to execute. If we spent more time implementing obedience to teachings we know God is asking of us, there would be less time for debate and speculation.

Life is short enough as it is. Let's not be careless with the time the Lord has given us. Spinning our wheels in trivial matters gets us nowhere. There are some theological arguments that the enemy will use to harm the lives of believers as they become sidetracked from the central message of the Gospel and the life and work of Jesus Christ. When we expend time on topics that will not help us live a life of faith in God, we are not administering or managing truth well. As any discussion progresses, we should ask ourselves, will time spent on this topic allow me to see a clearer view of Christ, resulting in greater faith, making me more like Him? If the answer is 'no', we need to redirect or remove ourselves so that our own commitment to the Lord and His word is not hindered.

Burst Forth!

"Oh that You would burst from the heavens and come down!..." Isaiah 64:1

Reading the prophet Isaiah's longing for God to break suddenly into a situation and appear, my heart echoed this cry.

Before reading the verse above I had received a message from a friend. Her cousin lives in an area of North Carolina that was recently demolished by Hurricane Helene. Although so very thankful to be alive, life around her relative is almost non-existent. After days without power and cell phone service, she was only now able to contact her cousin.

In her message she described the conditions in Western North Carolina as nightmarish. Mudslides and missing roads prevent any travelling. With power still unavailable, ATM machines are inaccessible and without cash people are unable to make purchases. She described unbelievable scenes with heavy police presence at many gas stations because of the violence escalating. Any roads that are navigable are reliant on drivers being "nice, patient and respectful" as most traffic lights are not working. And, it is not just the smaller buildings that have been destroyed. Large corporate chain stores have become a mess of steel beams. She writes: "It's apocalyptic out there and I'm not exaggerating at all. I can't believe the far spread scope of this."

It is so heartbreaking to read and almost unfathomable for our minds to comprehend. Somehow, we can see pictures on the news and become desensitized due to similar visuals now portrayed on so many television dramas. In our thoughts we can distance the reality of all that these dear folk are experiencing, convincing ourselves that it is just another episode on some series, ignoring the very real pain happening for survivors at this very moment. Even while writing this, two more friends from across the border wrote with updates regarding their situations. One referenced all the food in fridge and freezers that no doubt has long spoiled for many. Another mentioned the very cold showers and no heat in her home, yet thankful the temperatures outside are still welcoming.

But some of us may be going through our own personal "hurricanes". Gale force winds are threatening to topple us as we've been blindsided by an unexpected storm. Oh, how we are calling out to the Lord to "burst" into our lives with His power and show Himself mighty on our behalf.

As I look over my list of prayer requests it seems overwhelming. As the walls of buildings collapsed, hearts too are crumbling from unforeseen circumstances, delays, and unrelenting ongoing trials without an end in sight.

Lord, we are calling on You to "burst from the heavens and come down!" Father we need You. Further on in Isaiah 65 You say, "I was ready to respond, but no one asked for help. I was ready to be found, but no one was looking for Me. I said, 'Here I am, here I am!' to a nation that did not call on My name" (Isaiah 65:1). Father, we don't want to be accused of that neglect. We are calling on Your name! "When You came down long ago, You did awesome deeds beyond our highest expectations. And oh, how the mountains quaked! For since the world began, no ear has heard and no eye has seen a God like You, who works for those who wait for Him!' (Isaiah 64:3-4). God, we ask that even at this very moment we will see the truth of Isaiah 65:24 before our eyes, "I will answer them before they even call to Me. While they are still talking about their needs, I will go ahead and answer their prayers!" 

We wait with expectation for You to burst forth into each need represented that Your glory may be seen throughout the world. Thank You Lord for all You are going to do. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Where?

"They cried out, 'Where is the One...?'" Isaiah 63:11, 12, 13

In the recent wake of Hurricane Helene and the devastation throughout the United States, along with the wars against Lebanon and the Ukraine, I recall a question I heard after the horrific disaster of 9/11. Just as the Israelites asked thousands of years ago, people continue questioning, where is God when all the events of these days are unfolding. In response, a reflection was written by Stacey Randall. I pray it will meet you where you are today.

"Meet Me in the Stairwell"

You say you will never forget where you were when you heard the news on September 11, 2001.

Neither will I.

I was on the 110th floor in a smoke filled room with a man who called his wife to say 'Goodbye.' I held his fingers steady as he dialed. I gave him the peace to say, 'Honey, I am not going to make it, but it is OK...I am ready to go.'

I was with his wife when he called as she fed breakfast to their children. I held her up as she tried to understand his words and as she realized he wasn't coming home that night.

I was in the stairwell of the 23rd floor when a woman cried out to Me for help. 'I have been knocking on the door of your heart for 50 years!' I said. 'Of course I will show you the way home - only believe in Me now.'

I was at the base of the building with the Priest ministering to the injured and devastated souls. I took him home to tend to his Flock in Heaven. He heard My voice and answered.

I was on all four of those planes, in every seat, with every prayer. I was with the crew as they were over taken. I was in the very hearts of the believers there, comforting and assuring them that their faith has saved them.

I was in Texas, Virginia, California, Michigan, Afghanistan.

I was standing next to you when you heard the terrible news.

Did you sense Me?

I want you to know that I saw every face. I knew every name - though not all know Me. Some met Me for the first time on the 86th floor.

Some sought Me with their last breath.

Some couldn't hear Me calling to them through the smoke and flames; 'Come to Me...this way...take My hand.' Some chose, for the final time, to ignore Me.

But I was there.

I did not place you in the Tower that day. You may not know why, but I do. However, if you were there in that explosive moment in time, would you have reached for Me?

September 11, 2001, was not the end of the journey for you. But someday your journey will end. And I will be there for you as well. Seek Me now while I may be found. Then, at any moment, you know you are 'ready to go.'

I will be in the stairwell of your final moments.

Love, God

Truth's Tender Timing

"Good people pass away; the godly often die before their time. But no one seems to care or wonder why. No one seems to understand that God is protecting them from the evil to come. For those who follow godly paths will rest in peace when they die." Isaiah 57:1-2

I currently have three sympathy cards I need to write and send off in the mail. One to a grieving friend and her family who lost their precious mom. Another to a gal mourning the passing of her brother. The final one to parents of a young man who have now outlived their youngest child. As I reflect on what expressions of sympathy I will include as a personal note to each recipient, I do not think I will include the verses above. Although scripture tells us that death can be a method of God's protection on someone's life, there is a time to tenderly share truth so that it does not fall insensitive on hurting hearts.

We all struggle with responding to those who are experiencing deep loss. There are so many verses from God's Word that can provide comfort, but often times they can arrive unwelcomed or too soon. The ears that hear them know that they are true, but they fall hard and hurtful adding to the pain. 

Truth spoken at the wrong time can seem callus, uncaring and trite. It is not just at a time of loss when the delivery of God's Word can sting. Think of some verses that can cause resistance. Rejoice always. (Seriously?) Be thankful in everything. (For this too?) All things work together for good. (Really?) God's ways are not our ways. (That's for sure!) This will bring God glory. (But what about me? Does His glory have to be at the expense of my joy?)

As the stages of grief are walked, some encouragements delivered by loving, caring friends cause such inner turmoil. When a heart is flooding with emotion, to pour in well-meaning but untimely words of trust and faith while the wounded is still trying to breathe, can harm more than heal. Scripture inappropriately used as a quick comfort needs to give way to a warm embrace. Arms of love speak louder. 

There will come a time when verses like Isaiah 57:1-2 will bring the reassurance and hope they were written to fulfill, but until that time, "God catches every one of our falling tears and He's keeping us from falling apart...So much of life is mystery, but what you can know is: God's heart overflows in the midst of grief." (Ann Voskamp)

We need sensitivity not to rush weeping. Psalm 30:5, "Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning", is not necessarily referencing a 24-hour period. This verse speaks of sorrow not having the last word, and the promise of joy returning, but it most likely will not happen overnight. The immediate holds unfathomable changes, but what appears impossible will be filled with the strength of the Lord. It will be experiencing God and His Word that will impact more than just hearing it.

Our faith during times of devastation rarely fits neatly into a formula. We need friends who come to us with the gentleness of grace so that what they offer supports instead of cripples. Eventually we will see in hindsight how God's Word was evidenced in every step we took, providing for our every need.

A handy verse can be shared with good intention, but still be incredibly misguided if spoken too soon, adding stress to the sufferer. Pray for discernment when deciding on timing and text of biblical truth. Suggesting a loved one's death was for their protection might be true, but it does not dull the pain of now. We should not need to defend pain, or explain the reason for it. Sometimes we just need to accept that suffering happens. 

So, back to my sympathy cards still sitting empty on my kitchen table. Maybe we stress too much about saying the "right thing". Stepping into someone's tragedy brings both risk and reward. Often sitting in silence is the best way to honour loss. A thoughtfully chosen card of love and sympathy speaks on its own. 

Ann Voskamp quote: "When You Wonder: How God Feels About All Kinds of Storms & Flooding Grief?" - https://annvoskamp.com/2024/09/when-you-wonder-how-god-feels-about-all-kinds-of-storms-flooding-grief/ 

Listening

"Come to Me with your ears wide open. Listen and you will find life." Isaiah 55:3a

In the past I have experienced days and weeks with very limited hearing. I have described it as being underwater in a tunnel. As I have waited for the procedure that brings relief, due to this physical difficulty, I have temporarily missed enjoying the clarity of birds singing and music playing. Voices over the phone were dulled. If our physical hearing can be so impaired, what about this spiritual sense? What might block our ears that would keep us from hearing God's voice?

Time. Are we even pausing long enough to give Him opportunity to speak?

Openness. Do we really want to hear what God has to say to us?

Unforgiveness. Is our unconfessed sin clogging His ears? (Isaiah 59:1-2)

Impatience. Are we being still a sufficient length of time in order to listen?

Distractions. Are too many other thoughts crowding out His voice?

Position. Have we withdrawn purposefully to a quiet place in response to His invitation?

Preparation. Are our hearts ready to hear?

Attitude. Do we anticipate God actually speaking to us?

Desire. How desperate are we to hear His voice?

Fear. Are we afraid He will give us directions that we do not want to hear or obey?

Doubt. Does He still speak?

Value. Well aware of our unworthiness, are we "good enough" for God to ever speak to us?

"Open my ears, that I may hear

Voices of truth Thou sendest clear;

And while the wave notes fall on my ear,

Everything false will disappear.

Silently now I wait for Thee

Ready my God, Thy will to see,

Open my ears, illumine me,

Spirit divine!"

"'Speak, LORD, for Your servant is listening.'" 1 Samuel 3:9

"Open My Eyes That I May See" - by Clara H. Scott; Evangelical Publishing Company; copyright 1895