by Charity Pence
This Week's Verse: "For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them." Ephesians 2:10 (NKJV)
Insecurity is something I have struggled with most my life. Part of me has always felt that I don't quite measure up. I'm not pretty enough, not developed enough. At times I've believed myself to be fat though I've never been considered over weight. I get nervous and tend to trip over my words when speaking and fear I sound like a bumbling idiot. When I walk through a room of strangers, I cannot shake the feeling that I am being judged. And one of my biggest fears is being viewed as stupid.
I was made fun of a lot when younger and was judged harshly for circumstances beyond my control, but I do not believe my negative experiences should determine who I am. And you know what? I do not believe my Heavenly Father would think so either.
If you struggle as I do with insecurities, allow me to share with you some mighty truths.
1. You were fearfully and wonderfully made. (Psalm 139:14)
2. You are precious and chosen by God. (1 Peter 2:4)
3. God did not give you a spirit of fear. (Romans 8:15)
4. God will enable you. (1 Peter 4:11)
5. You are made complete through Christ. (Colossians 2:10)
6. You were created beautiful by God. (Ecclesiastes 3:11)
7. God cares for you. (1 Peter 5:7)
8. Nothing can separate you from God's love. (Romans 8:38-39)
9. God rejoices over you. (Zephaniah 3:17)
10. God has a plan for you. (Jeremiah 29:11)
11. You are instilled with the power of Christ. (Acts 1:8)
12. God will not forsake you. (2 Corinthians 4:9)
We are assured of so much more than what is listed above. But I hope you will use this list to remind yourself of who you are. Please do not let the world tell you any different.
Dear Heavenly Father, I have spent too much time worrying about what the world thinks of me. Please forgive me for caring more for the opinion of others than I do about yours. Your word assures me of who I am. Help me to focus on that and focus on You, Your love, and Your grace. For Your grace is sufficient, Lord. Touch the hearts of those who need this list. Show them who they truly are. I love You, Lord. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Showing posts with label God's faithfulness. Show all posts
Showing posts with label God's faithfulness. Show all posts
Monday, July 22, 2013
Saturday, August 25, 2012
Abraham's Obedience
by Charity Pence
This Week's Verse: Genesis 22:2 "Then He said, 'Take now your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I shall tell you." (NKJ)
I cannot imagine what was going through Abraham's mind when he received the command from God to sacrifice his son Isaac. The Bible only tells us that Abraham went. But it could not have been easy for Abraham. That is why I believe we can learn much from this story.
Abraham was an old man by the time he was blessed with a son. Consider for a moment the joy he must have felt when Isaac was born. His faith was already strong, but surely receiving such a seemingly impossible blessing must have strengthened his faith in God. Isaac would be his heir! The descendants promised by the Lord became a reality with Isaac's birth. But then God told Abraham to sacrifice Isaac as an offering. At that point, I would have said, "Hold up. How are you going to carry out your promise if I kill my son?" The story in Genesis doesn't mention Abraham doubting the Lord. But taking that journey to Moriah had to be one of the most difficult trips for Abraham.
The point is, being obedient to God is easy when His command makes sense. When we understand. But when we don't understand? That's when real faith kicks in. That's when we reveal our true character.
We may never know what would have happened if Abraham withheld Isaac from God. What we do know is that Abraham took those steps, despite how hard it must have been. And he was blessed for his obedience. "By myself I have sworn, says the Lord, because you have done this thing, and have not withheld your son, your only son, blessing I will bless you, and multiplying I will multiply your descendants as the stars of the heaven and as the sand whch is on the seashore, and your descendants shall possess the gate of their enemies." Genesis 22:16, 17 (NKJ)
Dear Heavenly Father, It's so easy to rejoice and be obedient when things go our way. But when the path you set before us is difficult or doesn't make sense, too often we stumble. Please help us to be more like Abraham. Strengthen us so we can let go of fear and doubt, and so we can continue walking until your will is done. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Power Verse:
Deuteronomy 31:6 "Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you." (NKJ)
Deuteronomy 31:6 "Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you." (NKJ)
Saturday, May 19, 2012
Stepping Out In Faith
by Charity Pence
This Week’s Verse: Proverbs 16:20 “He who heeds the word wisely will find good, and whoever trusts in the Lord, happy is he.” (NKJ)
A good friend of mine recently told me something out of Christian love. She had heard me speak often about wanting children and waiting for the right time. And she’d heard me talk about being faithful and believing what God’s word says regarding blessings of children. However, she thought I wasn’t really trusting God. Why? Because I wasn’t doing anything.
Since I love and respect this friend, I was not bothered by what she told me. I spent the next week praying about that. One morning, as I was praying and considering what she’d said, God told me it was time to step out in faith. You see, I thought I was trusting God and being faithful by waiting. Waiting for God to correct our circumstances, waiting for God to provide what we would need, waiting for God to provide a job closer to home. Now don’t get me wrong; there are times when we need to wait. But I was waiting for things we didn’t really need yet. What I needed to do was move! Though I thought I was doing the right thing and trying to be responsible, I was actually holding God back. Hebrews 11:6 says, “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” (NKJ)
Seldom does God move without expecting us to move with Him. When God revealed to me that the time to wait was over, I was a bit…terrified. Stepping out in faith is hard, but what better way is there to show God we truly trust in Him? So I am excited to announce my husband and I are beginning the adoption process. This is the path God has brought us to. And instead of standing back, we’re going to step up and watch our Lord move! “Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoices; my flesh also will rest in hope.” Psalm 16:9 (NKJ).
Dear Heavenly Father, You are so faithful in your promises to us. Thank You for always providing for me and my husband through all of our trials. You have given us more than enough reason to trust in You. You are our provider, healer, counselor, and friend. I love you, Lord, and I look forward to the journey you are taking us on. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Do you ever get tired of just waiting? Whatever you’re waiting for this week, pray about it. God might be waiting on you. And if that’s the case, it’s time to get moving!
Power Verses:
Numbers 23:19 “God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? Or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?” (KJV)
Isaiah 46:11 “Yea, I have spoken it, I will also bring it to pass; I have purposed it, I will also do it.” (KJV)
Romans 4:20 “He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God.” (NKJ)
This Week’s Verse: Proverbs 16:20 “He who heeds the word wisely will find good, and whoever trusts in the Lord, happy is he.” (NKJ)
A good friend of mine recently told me something out of Christian love. She had heard me speak often about wanting children and waiting for the right time. And she’d heard me talk about being faithful and believing what God’s word says regarding blessings of children. However, she thought I wasn’t really trusting God. Why? Because I wasn’t doing anything.
Since I love and respect this friend, I was not bothered by what she told me. I spent the next week praying about that. One morning, as I was praying and considering what she’d said, God told me it was time to step out in faith. You see, I thought I was trusting God and being faithful by waiting. Waiting for God to correct our circumstances, waiting for God to provide what we would need, waiting for God to provide a job closer to home. Now don’t get me wrong; there are times when we need to wait. But I was waiting for things we didn’t really need yet. What I needed to do was move! Though I thought I was doing the right thing and trying to be responsible, I was actually holding God back. Hebrews 11:6 says, “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” (NKJ)
Seldom does God move without expecting us to move with Him. When God revealed to me that the time to wait was over, I was a bit…terrified. Stepping out in faith is hard, but what better way is there to show God we truly trust in Him? So I am excited to announce my husband and I are beginning the adoption process. This is the path God has brought us to. And instead of standing back, we’re going to step up and watch our Lord move! “Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoices; my flesh also will rest in hope.” Psalm 16:9 (NKJ).
Dear Heavenly Father, You are so faithful in your promises to us. Thank You for always providing for me and my husband through all of our trials. You have given us more than enough reason to trust in You. You are our provider, healer, counselor, and friend. I love you, Lord, and I look forward to the journey you are taking us on. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Do you ever get tired of just waiting? Whatever you’re waiting for this week, pray about it. God might be waiting on you. And if that’s the case, it’s time to get moving!
Power Verses:
Numbers 23:19 “God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? Or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?” (KJV)
Isaiah 46:11 “Yea, I have spoken it, I will also bring it to pass; I have purposed it, I will also do it.” (KJV)
Romans 4:20 “He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God.” (NKJ)
Friday, October 14, 2011
We Know the End
By Kathy Lay
This Week’s Verse: Revelation 21:6, “And he also said, ‘It is finished! I am the Alpha and the Omega—the Beginning and the End…’”(NLT).
Devotion:
Are you one of those who likes to take a peek—just a little one—at the end of a book before you read it? Or maybe you’ve recorded or DVR’d the big game and didn’t mind “accidentally” seeing the score at the end before you watch it? Sometimes the stress and drama of conflict in a book, movie, or game is too much and we just want to know how it turns out so we can relax and enjoy watching how it unfolds.
If that concept is sometimes true for entertainment, imagine how much more true it is for real life.
When you’re stuck in a desperate situation and see no possible way out, you can find your confidence in the fact that it will all work out in the end if you place your faith firmly in the One who can (and wants to!) work it out.
Is the worry of debt stealing your hope for a future? Praise God as your provider with faithful tithing and wait for the floodgates to open. (Malachi 3:10)
Does addiction swallow you so oppressively in blackness that even a mere pinprick of light seems impossible? God calls you out of darkness and into His wonderful light. (1 Peter 2:9)
Is the health of you or a loved one so compromised that restoration seems completely out of reach? Your Jesus was wounded to heal. (1 Peter 2:24).
When the drama of reality begins to surround and oppress us to the point of spiritual claustrophobia, it is comforting to peek at the end of the book we base our lives on and to know the end—Jesus. He was there in the beginning, He’s here in the midst, and He will be there in the end, triumphant.
Tying up our loose ends.
Answering the unanswered.
And trumping evil in the final move to end all moves.
Jesus, when I get so caught up in my day-to-day problems, help me find strength and joy in knowing you have the final victory in everything. It may not be my way or in my time, but you work ALL things for the good of those who love you. And I love you, Lord Jesus, in Your Name.
Application: Name a battle you face right now in prayer to God and claim His victory over it, recognizing Him as Alpha and Omega.
Power Verses:
John 19:30, “When Jesus had tasted it, he said, ‘It is finished!’ then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.”(NLT). (emphasis mine)
Revelation 22:5, “And there will be no night there—no need for lamps or sun—for the Lord God will shine on them. And they will reign forever and ever.”(NLT)
This Week’s Verse: Revelation 21:6, “And he also said, ‘It is finished! I am the Alpha and the Omega—the Beginning and the End…’”(NLT).
Devotion:
Are you one of those who likes to take a peek—just a little one—at the end of a book before you read it? Or maybe you’ve recorded or DVR’d the big game and didn’t mind “accidentally” seeing the score at the end before you watch it? Sometimes the stress and drama of conflict in a book, movie, or game is too much and we just want to know how it turns out so we can relax and enjoy watching how it unfolds.
If that concept is sometimes true for entertainment, imagine how much more true it is for real life.
When you’re stuck in a desperate situation and see no possible way out, you can find your confidence in the fact that it will all work out in the end if you place your faith firmly in the One who can (and wants to!) work it out.
Is the worry of debt stealing your hope for a future? Praise God as your provider with faithful tithing and wait for the floodgates to open. (Malachi 3:10)
Does addiction swallow you so oppressively in blackness that even a mere pinprick of light seems impossible? God calls you out of darkness and into His wonderful light. (1 Peter 2:9)
Is the health of you or a loved one so compromised that restoration seems completely out of reach? Your Jesus was wounded to heal. (1 Peter 2:24).
When the drama of reality begins to surround and oppress us to the point of spiritual claustrophobia, it is comforting to peek at the end of the book we base our lives on and to know the end—Jesus. He was there in the beginning, He’s here in the midst, and He will be there in the end, triumphant.
Tying up our loose ends.
Answering the unanswered.
And trumping evil in the final move to end all moves.
Jesus, when I get so caught up in my day-to-day problems, help me find strength and joy in knowing you have the final victory in everything. It may not be my way or in my time, but you work ALL things for the good of those who love you. And I love you, Lord Jesus, in Your Name.
Application: Name a battle you face right now in prayer to God and claim His victory over it, recognizing Him as Alpha and Omega.
Power Verses:
John 19:30, “When Jesus had tasted it, he said, ‘It is finished!’ then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.”(NLT). (emphasis mine)
Revelation 22:5, “And there will be no night there—no need for lamps or sun—for the Lord God will shine on them. And they will reign forever and ever.”(NLT)
Friday, September 2, 2011
Happy Anniversary!
"My prayer for this ministry is that women become united by opening up and sharing their hearts with others. I pray for God to fill these women with the Spirit as they write these devotions." ~Denise Reed"I look forward to reading the devotional every week because we really get to know the heart of the woman doing the writing. Women are a lot busier now than they used to be. If we make enough time for our own families, our church activities and still hold down a full time job, that leaves little time for "friend time". We are all friends in one way or another. It's nice know how many of our gals at FCC love the Lord with all of their hearts and souls. Keep writing girls - We love you and are praying for you all." ~Debby Craig
"It has been so exciting to see the Olive Branch grow! I love how more and more women have stepped up to answer God's call to share through their writing. I'm honored to have been a part of it's launching four years ago, and I'm blessed to see it has flourished under new management. God's hand is on the Olive Branch." ~Kathy Lay
"The Olive Branch serves as a God-inspired ministry, directed at women from women whose hearts are focused on the Lord. Everything written is evidence to this." ~Charity Pence
"The Olive Branch provides encouragement, guidance, and a lot of wake-up calls to me once a week, and it always seems to be just what I needed. Thanks to everyone who has been so willing to serve." ~Brenda Pickering
"Olive Branch is a place where I can both give encouragement to and receive encouragement from my sisters in Christ. When I go to the Olive Branch blog I know I will find others that are facing the same struggles that I am. I will also find sisters that are encountering victories over the enemy and sharing with me how to do the same." ~Mollie Thompson
"Watching this blog grow has been exciting! I can't wait to see what the Lord has in store for the next year!" ~Bethany Lashbrook
Psalm 30:4, "Sing the praises of the LORD, you his faithful people; praise his holy name." (NIV)
Friday, May 28, 2010
Friends
by Bethany Lashbrook
This Week’s Verse: John 15:13, “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.”(NIV)
Devotion:
Growing up in Marshall, I had the same friends from kindergarten all the way through high school. After parting from Marshall for several years to pursue a degree and start a family, Clint and I made the hard decision to move back home and raise our family in the town we both grew up in. I was excited. I had history in Marshall—friends—and we would just pick right up where we left off. Or so I thought.
Truth was, these girls were still all my friends, but we had grown apart. We were still (mostly) the same people, with the same characteristics, yet we had all changed. I was devastated. I never thought I would live in my hometown and be struggling to make a connection with anyone.
For a couple of years, I prayed to find my "best" friend again. I prayed and prayed that I wouldn’t feel so lonely and would regain that bond of friendship that every woman needs in her life. And, like I have said recently, “If you ask, He will give!” My, has the Lord provided friends for me! And not just one best friend, but many good friends that I lean on for support!
I have the Tell-it-like-it-is friend for when I am contemplating doing something un-Christian or un-lady like. Boy, does she ever set me straight—yet in a way I could never get mad! I have the Phone-call friend, who is only a phone call away. If I need something, she has got my back! I have the Praying friends who through the click of a mouse are praying for me all day, all week, or all month if I need. Lord knows I can’t live without these women in my life.
I have the I-never-thought-we-would-be-friends friend who has shocked me with her kindness. I have the Testimony friend who from sharing her testimony with me has helped me begin to understand and share mine. I have the Please-don’t-talk-to-me-about-religion friend whom I adore dearly and who, one day, might decide that my life is just as enticing as hers!
Even though these friends are all different, I know they are just like the friends of the paralytic in Mark 2:1-5. Jesus had entered a town called Capernaum. So many people had heard about Jesus being there, they quickly surrounded him and the home he was preaching in. Meanwhile, four friends carried with them their friend, a paralytic, on a mat to go listen to Jesus preach (or maybe even catch a glimpse of him). Since the crowd was so large, they decided to cut a hole (yes, cut a hole) in the roof, and lower their friend down on his mat straight to Jesus. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "Son, your sins are forgiven."
Notice, Jesus doesn’t say when he saw “his” faith; he said “their” faith. This man’s friends had so much faith and belief in not only Jesus, but also their friend—and that is why he stood up and walked right out into the crowd! Talk about some awesome friends! And that’s what the Lord has provided me with—some really cool, awesome friends!
Dear Lord, thank you for who you have chosen to place in my life. Thank you for such wonderful friends. Please help me to be just as good a friend to them, as they are to me. In your Son’s name I pray, Amen.
Application:
Has the Lord placed another woman on your heart lately? He might just be telling you to talk to her, and get to know her. That first phone call might be a bit scary, but once it is out of the way, the rest are much easier!
Power Verses:
Job 2:11, “When Job's three friends heard about all the troubles that had come upon him, they set out from their homes and met together by agreement to go and sympathize with him and comfort him.”(NIV)
1 John 4:7, “Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God.”(NLT)
Matthew 21:22, “And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.”(NKJV)
This Week’s Verse: John 15:13, “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.”(NIV)
Devotion:
Growing up in Marshall, I had the same friends from kindergarten all the way through high school. After parting from Marshall for several years to pursue a degree and start a family, Clint and I made the hard decision to move back home and raise our family in the town we both grew up in. I was excited. I had history in Marshall—friends—and we would just pick right up where we left off. Or so I thought.
Truth was, these girls were still all my friends, but we had grown apart. We were still (mostly) the same people, with the same characteristics, yet we had all changed. I was devastated. I never thought I would live in my hometown and be struggling to make a connection with anyone.
For a couple of years, I prayed to find my "best" friend again. I prayed and prayed that I wouldn’t feel so lonely and would regain that bond of friendship that every woman needs in her life. And, like I have said recently, “If you ask, He will give!” My, has the Lord provided friends for me! And not just one best friend, but many good friends that I lean on for support!
I have the Tell-it-like-it-is friend for when I am contemplating doing something un-Christian or un-lady like. Boy, does she ever set me straight—yet in a way I could never get mad! I have the Phone-call friend, who is only a phone call away. If I need something, she has got my back! I have the Praying friends who through the click of a mouse are praying for me all day, all week, or all month if I need. Lord knows I can’t live without these women in my life.
I have the I-never-thought-we-would-be-friends friend who has shocked me with her kindness. I have the Testimony friend who from sharing her testimony with me has helped me begin to understand and share mine. I have the Please-don’t-talk-to-me-about-religion friend whom I adore dearly and who, one day, might decide that my life is just as enticing as hers!
Even though these friends are all different, I know they are just like the friends of the paralytic in Mark 2:1-5. Jesus had entered a town called Capernaum. So many people had heard about Jesus being there, they quickly surrounded him and the home he was preaching in. Meanwhile, four friends carried with them their friend, a paralytic, on a mat to go listen to Jesus preach (or maybe even catch a glimpse of him). Since the crowd was so large, they decided to cut a hole (yes, cut a hole) in the roof, and lower their friend down on his mat straight to Jesus. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, "Son, your sins are forgiven."
Notice, Jesus doesn’t say when he saw “his” faith; he said “their” faith. This man’s friends had so much faith and belief in not only Jesus, but also their friend—and that is why he stood up and walked right out into the crowd! Talk about some awesome friends! And that’s what the Lord has provided me with—some really cool, awesome friends!
Dear Lord, thank you for who you have chosen to place in my life. Thank you for such wonderful friends. Please help me to be just as good a friend to them, as they are to me. In your Son’s name I pray, Amen.
Application:
Has the Lord placed another woman on your heart lately? He might just be telling you to talk to her, and get to know her. That first phone call might be a bit scary, but once it is out of the way, the rest are much easier!
Power Verses:
Job 2:11, “When Job's three friends heard about all the troubles that had come upon him, they set out from their homes and met together by agreement to go and sympathize with him and comfort him.”(NIV)
1 John 4:7, “Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God.”(NLT)
Matthew 21:22, “And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.”(NKJV)
Friday, May 14, 2010
Clingy
by Kathy Lay
This Week's Verse: Deuteronomy 13:4, “Serve only the LORD your God and fear him alone. Obey his commands, listen to his voice, and cling to him.”(NLT)
Devotion:
Cleave, adhere, stick. In a word? Cling.
We usually perceive "clingy" as something negative, right? I know I hate it when my clothes are clingy; I tend to want to distance myself when people are too clingy; and I've even scolded our dog when she follows not more than six inches behind me when she's uneasy. Ugh! It kinda gets on my nerves, this clingy business.
It's frustrating, isn't it? You want to be there, and honestly, as wives, mothers, daughters, sisters, girlfriends, and women in general--you know, the "nurturers"--we feel the enormous expectation to meet everyone's needs. Then if we fall short we feel guilty because it's just not humanly possible to be everything for everybody. Or sometimes even a few somebodies.
But you know what I find liberating? We were never designed to be! There is only One who can be everything to everybody and this week's verse is clear about Who is truly cling-worthy.
Are we to work faithfully on His behalf? Absolutely. Reach out to help? Of course. Are we to carry others' burdens? Without question.
But we also have to recognize our limitations and maybe even remind others--the cling-ons--that anytime they seek fulfillment solely from mere humans, they'll come up unsatisfied. People aren't perfect. But thank God, He is.
I once heard a quote that said something like, "If I was a perfect mom, my kids wouldn't need God." Pithy, yes, but there's a kernal of truth there. And you could substitute relationships within the sentence: If I was a perfect friend, my friend wouldn't need God. If I was a perfect wife, my husband wouldn't need God. Sure, they'd still need Him, but it's less likely they'd see their need for Him if their needs were met with a "perfect" friend or wife! Why cling when life is grand?
Please understand, the above is not a cop-out of our Christian duty to love one another well. In fact, it increases our own need to cling. When that guilt at falling short kicks in, or emptiness or loneliness or numbness or simply a desire for change, we are in turn propelled to someone for strength, encouragement, or answers. It's definitely okay to reach out to those you love and respect. But be sure above all else you're reaching out to grab hold of God. He invites you to cling to Him. He desires it.
And when you cling, when you truly hold on tightly with both hands, following Him closely, and talking constantly to Him, everything else fades.
Feeling a little clingy?
Father God, thank you that you not only allow us to cling to You, but that you invite it--even command it! Help us to shift any excessive clinginess to people whole-heartedly to You. We want to cleave and adhere to You. In Jesus' Name.
Application:
Do you see yourself as a clingy person? How do you react when someone has been clingy with you? Praise God for being the only perfect One to cling to.
Power Verses:
Psalm 63:8, "My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me."(NIV)
Romans 12:9, "Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good."(NIV)
1 Timothy 1:19, "Cling to your faith in Christ, and keep your conscience clear. For some people have deliberately violated their consciences; as a result, their faith has been shipwrecked."(NLT)
This Week's Verse: Deuteronomy 13:4, “Serve only the LORD your God and fear him alone. Obey his commands, listen to his voice, and cling to him.”(NLT)
Devotion:
Cleave, adhere, stick. In a word? Cling.
We usually perceive "clingy" as something negative, right? I know I hate it when my clothes are clingy; I tend to want to distance myself when people are too clingy; and I've even scolded our dog when she follows not more than six inches behind me when she's uneasy. Ugh! It kinda gets on my nerves, this clingy business.
It's frustrating, isn't it? You want to be there, and honestly, as wives, mothers, daughters, sisters, girlfriends, and women in general--you know, the "nurturers"--we feel the enormous expectation to meet everyone's needs. Then if we fall short we feel guilty because it's just not humanly possible to be everything for everybody. Or sometimes even a few somebodies.
But you know what I find liberating? We were never designed to be! There is only One who can be everything to everybody and this week's verse is clear about Who is truly cling-worthy.
Are we to work faithfully on His behalf? Absolutely. Reach out to help? Of course. Are we to carry others' burdens? Without question.
But we also have to recognize our limitations and maybe even remind others--the cling-ons--that anytime they seek fulfillment solely from mere humans, they'll come up unsatisfied. People aren't perfect. But thank God, He is.
I once heard a quote that said something like, "If I was a perfect mom, my kids wouldn't need God." Pithy, yes, but there's a kernal of truth there. And you could substitute relationships within the sentence: If I was a perfect friend, my friend wouldn't need God. If I was a perfect wife, my husband wouldn't need God. Sure, they'd still need Him, but it's less likely they'd see their need for Him if their needs were met with a "perfect" friend or wife! Why cling when life is grand?
Please understand, the above is not a cop-out of our Christian duty to love one another well. In fact, it increases our own need to cling. When that guilt at falling short kicks in, or emptiness or loneliness or numbness or simply a desire for change, we are in turn propelled to someone for strength, encouragement, or answers. It's definitely okay to reach out to those you love and respect. But be sure above all else you're reaching out to grab hold of God. He invites you to cling to Him. He desires it.
And when you cling, when you truly hold on tightly with both hands, following Him closely, and talking constantly to Him, everything else fades.
Feeling a little clingy?
Father God, thank you that you not only allow us to cling to You, but that you invite it--even command it! Help us to shift any excessive clinginess to people whole-heartedly to You. We want to cleave and adhere to You. In Jesus' Name.
Application:
Do you see yourself as a clingy person? How do you react when someone has been clingy with you? Praise God for being the only perfect One to cling to.
Power Verses:
Psalm 63:8, "My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me."(NIV)
Romans 12:9, "Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good."(NIV)
1 Timothy 1:19, "Cling to your faith in Christ, and keep your conscience clear. For some people have deliberately violated their consciences; as a result, their faith has been shipwrecked."(NLT)
Friday, February 12, 2010
My Friend, God
by Bethany Lashbrook
This Week's Verse: John 15:13, "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." (NIV)
Devotion:
What do you call your Lord? Is he your Rock, Redeemer, or Protector? Is he your Way, your Truth and your Life? Is he your Shepherd, your Prince, or your Father? He can be referred to as the Holy One, The Living One, and the Son of Man. He is Almighty, the Beginning and the End, and the Lord of Lords. Of course, he is our God, our Savior, and our Living Word.
And lately, He keeps telling me he is my Friend.
I have been going through a “dark” spiritual time lately. For no reason in particular I am struggling in my Christian walk. Maybe my mood is reflected upon days and days of no sun. Maybe I have cabin fever. Maybe I am just in a rut. Whatever the reason, I keep hearing my Lord say “talk to me, I am your Friend”.
I’ve never really thought of God as my friend, but rather as a Father. And, I don’t know about you, but there is a lot of “stuff” I don’t tell my earthly father, or my Heavenly Father. Yet just knowing that I have had a friend to talk to has made a world of difference these last several weeks.
Sure, I have plenty of Christian friends I could call. I have many who would love to talk with me to get me out of this funk. But for whatever reason, I have chosen to remain silent to them and be completely open with my Friend, God. He always listens. He always stays with me. He doesn’t ridicule my actions, yet He stands firm in the way of The Word, and reminds me of how I should be acting. He reminds me that my walk will not always be some glorious road; rather it has lots of twists and turns.
Thanks to my new friend, God, I have been able to release some stress through constant prayer to Him. I find myself whispering to Him at all times during the day. At night, when I can’t sleep, to prayer I go. I’m so thankful that I have felt His presence in my life and am rewarded from our friendship!
Lord, thank you for our friendship. Please continue to guide and direct me through this spiritual journey. Amen.
Application:
What do you call God? Is it time to see Him in a different light to further your relationship with Him? As I have heard it said: “go to the throne, not the phone”. The Lord is here to listen, at all times!
Power Verses:
James 2:23, "And the scripture was fulfilled that says, 'Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,' and he was called God's friend."(NIV)
Deuteronomy 31:6, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."(NIV)
Proverbs 17:17, "Friends love through all kinds of weather, and families’ stick together in all kinds of trouble."(MSG)
This Week's Verse: John 15:13, "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." (NIV)
Devotion:
What do you call your Lord? Is he your Rock, Redeemer, or Protector? Is he your Way, your Truth and your Life? Is he your Shepherd, your Prince, or your Father? He can be referred to as the Holy One, The Living One, and the Son of Man. He is Almighty, the Beginning and the End, and the Lord of Lords. Of course, he is our God, our Savior, and our Living Word.
And lately, He keeps telling me he is my Friend.
I have been going through a “dark” spiritual time lately. For no reason in particular I am struggling in my Christian walk. Maybe my mood is reflected upon days and days of no sun. Maybe I have cabin fever. Maybe I am just in a rut. Whatever the reason, I keep hearing my Lord say “talk to me, I am your Friend”.
I’ve never really thought of God as my friend, but rather as a Father. And, I don’t know about you, but there is a lot of “stuff” I don’t tell my earthly father, or my Heavenly Father. Yet just knowing that I have had a friend to talk to has made a world of difference these last several weeks.
Sure, I have plenty of Christian friends I could call. I have many who would love to talk with me to get me out of this funk. But for whatever reason, I have chosen to remain silent to them and be completely open with my Friend, God. He always listens. He always stays with me. He doesn’t ridicule my actions, yet He stands firm in the way of The Word, and reminds me of how I should be acting. He reminds me that my walk will not always be some glorious road; rather it has lots of twists and turns.
Thanks to my new friend, God, I have been able to release some stress through constant prayer to Him. I find myself whispering to Him at all times during the day. At night, when I can’t sleep, to prayer I go. I’m so thankful that I have felt His presence in my life and am rewarded from our friendship!
Lord, thank you for our friendship. Please continue to guide and direct me through this spiritual journey. Amen.
Application:
What do you call God? Is it time to see Him in a different light to further your relationship with Him? As I have heard it said: “go to the throne, not the phone”. The Lord is here to listen, at all times!
Power Verses:
James 2:23, "And the scripture was fulfilled that says, 'Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,' and he was called God's friend."(NIV)
Deuteronomy 31:6, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."(NIV)
Proverbs 17:17, "Friends love through all kinds of weather, and families’ stick together in all kinds of trouble."(MSG)
Friday, October 23, 2009
From a Father to His Daughter
by Kathy Lay
This Week's Verse:
James 1:17-18, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.”(NIV)
Devotion:
God often uses our children to reveal Himself to us. Tuesday night He used them to show me how closely our parenthood journey mirrors His role as our Heavenly Father.
The evening was jam-packed and it began in a panic. One of my children was missing! Grandma was to pick up all three kids at school so they’d have time to grab a snack and change before heading to Terre Haute for the girls’ basketball game. After waiting until the parking lot cleared and even checking in with his teacher, it was concluded that Skylar had forgotten the arrangement and rode the bus home out of habit. So Grandma then drove out to the boonies where we live to wait for him. The bus didn’t stop. No Skylar. And he hadn’t gotten off the bus at her house either.
We later learned that he’d been playing with a buddy out on the playground the whole time, completely oblivious to the fact that his family was worried and that the pick-up location is in front of the school! Whew! He told me he’d thought it was weird Grandma was taking so long. Mmm hmm…
Later at the basketball game both girls played their hearts out. Awesome defense, sweet shots, working as a team—it was so much fun to watch. I considered how they’d improved and realized how much work and practice it had taken to get them to this point. Practicing when they didn’t want to, hearing the same advice over and over, opening themselves up to heeding it, and putting it into practice. Yet Coach Dad hadn't given up on them and his faithfulness coupled with their obedience and diligence is really starting to pay off.
We had to leave at half-time in order to make it back to Marshall in time for the kids’ piano recital. All of them were nervous and worried about messing up. My prayer was that even if they did, they’d recover gracefully and keep going. And that is exactly what happened. Each of them did a tremendous job not because they were perfect, but because they persevered and did their best. Shane and I beamed with pride.
Then the family, including two grandmas and one grandpa, celebrated at Pizza Hut. Good food and fellowship were a perfect capstone to a nerve-wracking-at-times, but fulfilling evening.
It was later in the quiet—after the crazy-busy whirlwind wound down—that the events of the evening replayed in mind. God painted vivid parallels and whispered sweet reminders into my heart about His love for not only these kids, but all of His children, including you and me. From the perspective of a Heavenly Parent, He showed me how the range of emotions I’d experienced all evening were a glimpse of what He feels about us, His children.
When we’re lost, He’s not content until we’re found. (Luke 15:6, “…Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.'”—NIV)
He’s given us skills and talents He expects us to develop and use. He disciplines and trains us so we continue to improve and grow, and He cheers us on along the way. (Hebrews 12:9, “Since we respected our earthly fathers who disciplined us, shouldn’t we submit even more to the discipline of the Father of our spirits, and live forever?”—NLT)
He knows we have fears about not being perfect or falling short, but He applauds and claps when he sees us stepping out in faith and trying our best. He already knows we’re not perfect and His strength is made perfect in our weaknesses. (Isaiah 41:13, “For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you”—NIV)
And the fitting capstone: we will celebrate. He’s prepared a feast unlike anything we can hope or imagine that will last throughout eternity. (Revelation 19:9, “And the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb.” And he added, “These are true words that come from God.”—NLT)
Lord, as our Heavenly Father, You love us too much to leave us lost. And when we're found You tenderly grow us into how You intend us to be, protecting and equipping us along the way. And when You return, what a glorious celebration we'll share. How we praise You for that!
Application:
In what ways has God revealed Himself to you through your parent/child relationships? Even if your situation is somewhat dysfunctional (whose isn't?!), tuck the truth into your heart that your Father God loves you too much to leave you lost, too much to let your growth be stunted, and too much to let you face fears alone. Look forward to the eternal celebration you'll share with Him.
Power Verses:
Zephaniah 3:17, "The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing." (NIV)
Proverbs 24-25, “The father of godly children has cause for joy. What a pleasure to have children who are wise. So give your father and mother joy! May she who gave you birth be happy.”(NLT)
Song of Solomon 2:4, “He escorts me to the banquet hall; it’s obvious how much he loves me.”(NLT)
This Week's Verse:
James 1:17-18, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.”(NIV)
Devotion:
God often uses our children to reveal Himself to us. Tuesday night He used them to show me how closely our parenthood journey mirrors His role as our Heavenly Father.
The evening was jam-packed and it began in a panic. One of my children was missing! Grandma was to pick up all three kids at school so they’d have time to grab a snack and change before heading to Terre Haute for the girls’ basketball game. After waiting until the parking lot cleared and even checking in with his teacher, it was concluded that Skylar had forgotten the arrangement and rode the bus home out of habit. So Grandma then drove out to the boonies where we live to wait for him. The bus didn’t stop. No Skylar. And he hadn’t gotten off the bus at her house either.
We later learned that he’d been playing with a buddy out on the playground the whole time, completely oblivious to the fact that his family was worried and that the pick-up location is in front of the school! Whew! He told me he’d thought it was weird Grandma was taking so long. Mmm hmm…
Later at the basketball game both girls played their hearts out. Awesome defense, sweet shots, working as a team—it was so much fun to watch. I considered how they’d improved and realized how much work and practice it had taken to get them to this point. Practicing when they didn’t want to, hearing the same advice over and over, opening themselves up to heeding it, and putting it into practice. Yet Coach Dad hadn't given up on them and his faithfulness coupled with their obedience and diligence is really starting to pay off.
We had to leave at half-time in order to make it back to Marshall in time for the kids’ piano recital. All of them were nervous and worried about messing up. My prayer was that even if they did, they’d recover gracefully and keep going. And that is exactly what happened. Each of them did a tremendous job not because they were perfect, but because they persevered and did their best. Shane and I beamed with pride.
Then the family, including two grandmas and one grandpa, celebrated at Pizza Hut. Good food and fellowship were a perfect capstone to a nerve-wracking-at-times, but fulfilling evening.
It was later in the quiet—after the crazy-busy whirlwind wound down—that the events of the evening replayed in mind. God painted vivid parallels and whispered sweet reminders into my heart about His love for not only these kids, but all of His children, including you and me. From the perspective of a Heavenly Parent, He showed me how the range of emotions I’d experienced all evening were a glimpse of what He feels about us, His children.
When we’re lost, He’s not content until we’re found. (Luke 15:6, “…Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.'”—NIV)
He’s given us skills and talents He expects us to develop and use. He disciplines and trains us so we continue to improve and grow, and He cheers us on along the way. (Hebrews 12:9, “Since we respected our earthly fathers who disciplined us, shouldn’t we submit even more to the discipline of the Father of our spirits, and live forever?”—NLT)
He knows we have fears about not being perfect or falling short, but He applauds and claps when he sees us stepping out in faith and trying our best. He already knows we’re not perfect and His strength is made perfect in our weaknesses. (Isaiah 41:13, “For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you”—NIV)
And the fitting capstone: we will celebrate. He’s prepared a feast unlike anything we can hope or imagine that will last throughout eternity. (Revelation 19:9, “And the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb.” And he added, “These are true words that come from God.”—NLT)
Lord, as our Heavenly Father, You love us too much to leave us lost. And when we're found You tenderly grow us into how You intend us to be, protecting and equipping us along the way. And when You return, what a glorious celebration we'll share. How we praise You for that!
Application:
In what ways has God revealed Himself to you through your parent/child relationships? Even if your situation is somewhat dysfunctional (whose isn't?!), tuck the truth into your heart that your Father God loves you too much to leave you lost, too much to let your growth be stunted, and too much to let you face fears alone. Look forward to the eternal celebration you'll share with Him.
Power Verses:
Zephaniah 3:17, "The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing." (NIV)
Proverbs 24-25, “The father of godly children has cause for joy. What a pleasure to have children who are wise. So give your father and mother joy! May she who gave you birth be happy.”(NLT)
Song of Solomon 2:4, “He escorts me to the banquet hall; it’s obvious how much he loves me.”(NLT)
Friday, September 25, 2009
It's Covered
by Kathy Lay
This Week’s Verse: Romans 8:13, “For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.”(NKJV)
I recently experienced a ceremony in which I died to a part of myself.
In this powerful demonstration of faith and sacrifice, each participant took a piece of bread, held it up to the Lord and named a sin, habit, belief, whatever—a part of her flesh that she wanted to put to death. She then threw the bread into a basket to symbolize giving it to God.
I knew immediately what I wanted to put to death: fear and anxiety. I am continually praying for deliverance of these joy-stealers, but to paraphrase Paul, even though my spirit is willing, my flesh is weak. I still find myself dry-heaving or crying whenever my anxiety kicks into overdrive. I can’t seem to control it. As much as I want to, my physical body betrays my heart and my will. So that was it; I’d made the decision to die to fear and anxiety and I cried them out to God as I threw the bread into the basket.
After each person did this, the leader held up a full basket brimming with aspects of our lives we wanted to put to death. And then she poured juice over the bread to illustrate the sins and ugliness being completely saturated with the blood of Jesus Christ! You should have heard the whooping and hollering and amening when she claimed those sins covered by Jesus! It was freeing and empowering and every face simply glowed with hope and restoration.
As warned in John 10:10, however, the thief came back in to steal my peace and destroy my assurance that Christ had it covered. It wasn’t a full two days after the mountaintop weekend was over before I was back in a pit of restless nervousness and worry about some idiocy at work. I wondered to God how this could be since I claimed dying to this very thing in Jesus’ Name. How was I still struggling with it?
Jesus whispered to my heart, “Kathy, remember? I’ve got it covered. My blood covered it just like the juice sopped all through that bread.”
“But Lord, then why was I a nervous wreck this morning to the point that I couldn’t even eat?”
“You don’t need to know why. You just have to trust that I’ve got it covered.”
See, instead of the physical “won’t-feel-anxious” resolution I was looking for, The Lord showed me a new perspective of what it means for Him to cover the sin. For one thing, He covers it in His way. He may deliver some folks from the sin instantly and completely, never to confront it again! But He also may cover it continually over time. I know that my anxiety was not only covered the instant the cry left my lips, but it will continue to be covered every time I’m confronted by it again.
Whatever we battle, God may continue to use it to some degree to help us become the best conquerors we can be. But He will be with us, covering the battle with His blood on our behalf. We just have to place our complete trust and faith in the fact that He really does have it covered!
Lord, thank you for having it all covered! Thank you for pointing out areas of our lives that keep us from living in the fullness You want for us. And thank you for the privilege of dying to them and turning them over to You. Increase our faith that Jesus’ blood covers them, once and for all.
Application:
Can you identify one particular area of your life that prevents you from living fully in abundance? Give it to God and pray for His governance of it under Jesus’ blood. Promise not to take it back, but rather to live in the faith that it’s already covered.
Power Verses:
Romans 5:9, “Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through him.”(NIV)
1 Peter 3:18, “For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit.” (NASB)
Romans 4:7, “Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered.”(NIV)
This Week’s Verse: Romans 8:13, “For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.”(NKJV)
I recently experienced a ceremony in which I died to a part of myself.
In this powerful demonstration of faith and sacrifice, each participant took a piece of bread, held it up to the Lord and named a sin, habit, belief, whatever—a part of her flesh that she wanted to put to death. She then threw the bread into a basket to symbolize giving it to God.
I knew immediately what I wanted to put to death: fear and anxiety. I am continually praying for deliverance of these joy-stealers, but to paraphrase Paul, even though my spirit is willing, my flesh is weak. I still find myself dry-heaving or crying whenever my anxiety kicks into overdrive. I can’t seem to control it. As much as I want to, my physical body betrays my heart and my will. So that was it; I’d made the decision to die to fear and anxiety and I cried them out to God as I threw the bread into the basket.
After each person did this, the leader held up a full basket brimming with aspects of our lives we wanted to put to death. And then she poured juice over the bread to illustrate the sins and ugliness being completely saturated with the blood of Jesus Christ! You should have heard the whooping and hollering and amening when she claimed those sins covered by Jesus! It was freeing and empowering and every face simply glowed with hope and restoration.
As warned in John 10:10, however, the thief came back in to steal my peace and destroy my assurance that Christ had it covered. It wasn’t a full two days after the mountaintop weekend was over before I was back in a pit of restless nervousness and worry about some idiocy at work. I wondered to God how this could be since I claimed dying to this very thing in Jesus’ Name. How was I still struggling with it?
Jesus whispered to my heart, “Kathy, remember? I’ve got it covered. My blood covered it just like the juice sopped all through that bread.”
“But Lord, then why was I a nervous wreck this morning to the point that I couldn’t even eat?”
“You don’t need to know why. You just have to trust that I’ve got it covered.”
See, instead of the physical “won’t-feel-anxious” resolution I was looking for, The Lord showed me a new perspective of what it means for Him to cover the sin. For one thing, He covers it in His way. He may deliver some folks from the sin instantly and completely, never to confront it again! But He also may cover it continually over time. I know that my anxiety was not only covered the instant the cry left my lips, but it will continue to be covered every time I’m confronted by it again.
Whatever we battle, God may continue to use it to some degree to help us become the best conquerors we can be. But He will be with us, covering the battle with His blood on our behalf. We just have to place our complete trust and faith in the fact that He really does have it covered!
Lord, thank you for having it all covered! Thank you for pointing out areas of our lives that keep us from living in the fullness You want for us. And thank you for the privilege of dying to them and turning them over to You. Increase our faith that Jesus’ blood covers them, once and for all.
Application:
Can you identify one particular area of your life that prevents you from living fully in abundance? Give it to God and pray for His governance of it under Jesus’ blood. Promise not to take it back, but rather to live in the faith that it’s already covered.
Power Verses:
Romans 5:9, “Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through him.”(NIV)
1 Peter 3:18, “For Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit.” (NASB)
Romans 4:7, “Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered.”(NIV)
Friday, June 12, 2009
Why Wait?
by Kathy Lay
This Week’s Verse: 2 Chronicles 6:40, "Now, my God, may your eyes be open and your ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place.”(NIV)
Devotion:
Now typically, I like frogs. They're kind of cute, they eat insect pests, and my kids love to play with them. But imagine being completely overrun with them. Exodus 8 describes the plague of frogs as being so thick that they were even invading beds, ovens, and kneading bowls. It'd be kind of hard to sleep with those slimy, ribbitting things trying to slip into your PJ's for warmth. It would also be a bit disconcerting to bite into your bread and sense something unusually chewy, only to look down and see half a frog oozing out at you. And then there's what they leave behind. Everywhere.
So Pharaoh--fed up with all this--summons Moses and Aaron to pray to their God to remove the frogs. Moses challenges Pharaoh to determine the time the prayer should take place. (Now here's the part that makes my jaw drop...)
Pharaoh responds, "Do it tomorrow."
(Okay, re-read that first part of v. 10. because I KNOW he didn't just say "tomorrow.")
"Do it tomorrow," Pharaoh said.
What?! Why on earth would he allow the frogs to remain one more day if he didn't have to?! Unless it was exactly 11:59:59 p.m. (or whatever the ancient Egyptian equivalent would be), then I simply do not understand how Pharaoh could respond this way in the midst of such nastiness. Why did he not burst out desperately, "Today! Do it right now to end this!"
But then as God so often does, He transported me from His Word to my life...or more accurately, His Word IN my life: "Kathy, why do you judge Pharaoh? You do this all the time. When you're worrying about a decision to make, you tell yourself that you need to pray about it—and sometimes you do—but sometimes you forget entirely. Or someone who is struggling will confide in you and you tell her “I'll pray for you,” implying that you'll do it later. Why not do it right then? By waiting, you're postponing resolution or healing, just like Pharaoh did. So quit judging."
Wow. Lesson noted, Lord. Thanks.
And you know what? A few plagues later when the flies swarmed in, Pharaoh gave Moses permission to take the Israelites on a three-day trip to the wilderness to offer sacrifices. But in verse 28 he doesn’t say, “Pray for me in a few days while you’re out there.” No, this time he asks for immediate prayer.
Even though he still struggled with a hard heart in later chapters, Pharaoh was beginning to learn his lesson: why wait?
Father, I am not so different from Pharaoh with my hard heart and my delayed or often omitted prayer. Help me finally come to realize the urgency in prayer to the point that it becomes second nature to do it at the exact moment a need presents itself.
Application:
Have you ever wondered if a situation could have been averted had you prayed about it sooner? I know I have. I Thess. 5:17 tells us to pray continually, which lends itself beautifully to timely, urgent prayer. Try to develop the habit of turning thoughts into prayers. It takes discipline, but it will enable you to stay in constant contact with The One who has it all under control.
Power Verses:
Exodus 8:28, “'All right, go ahead,’ Pharaoh replied. ‘I will let you go into the wilderness to offer sacrifices to the Lord your God. But don’t go too far away. Now hurry and pray for me.’”(NLT—emphasis mine)
Psalm 102:1, “God, listen! Listen to my prayer, listen to the pain in my cries. Don't turn your back on me just when I need you so desperately. Pay attention! This is a cry for help! And hurry—this can't wait!”(MSG)
Psalm 86:6, “Listen closely to my prayer, O Lord; hear my urgent cry.”(NLT)
This Week’s Verse: 2 Chronicles 6:40, "Now, my God, may your eyes be open and your ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place.”(NIV)
Devotion:
Now typically, I like frogs. They're kind of cute, they eat insect pests, and my kids love to play with them. But imagine being completely overrun with them. Exodus 8 describes the plague of frogs as being so thick that they were even invading beds, ovens, and kneading bowls. It'd be kind of hard to sleep with those slimy, ribbitting things trying to slip into your PJ's for warmth. It would also be a bit disconcerting to bite into your bread and sense something unusually chewy, only to look down and see half a frog oozing out at you. And then there's what they leave behind. Everywhere.
So Pharaoh--fed up with all this--summons Moses and Aaron to pray to their God to remove the frogs. Moses challenges Pharaoh to determine the time the prayer should take place. (Now here's the part that makes my jaw drop...)
Pharaoh responds, "Do it tomorrow."
(Okay, re-read that first part of v. 10. because I KNOW he didn't just say "tomorrow.")
"Do it tomorrow," Pharaoh said.
What?! Why on earth would he allow the frogs to remain one more day if he didn't have to?! Unless it was exactly 11:59:59 p.m. (or whatever the ancient Egyptian equivalent would be), then I simply do not understand how Pharaoh could respond this way in the midst of such nastiness. Why did he not burst out desperately, "Today! Do it right now to end this!"
But then as God so often does, He transported me from His Word to my life...or more accurately, His Word IN my life: "Kathy, why do you judge Pharaoh? You do this all the time. When you're worrying about a decision to make, you tell yourself that you need to pray about it—and sometimes you do—but sometimes you forget entirely. Or someone who is struggling will confide in you and you tell her “I'll pray for you,” implying that you'll do it later. Why not do it right then? By waiting, you're postponing resolution or healing, just like Pharaoh did. So quit judging."
Wow. Lesson noted, Lord. Thanks.
And you know what? A few plagues later when the flies swarmed in, Pharaoh gave Moses permission to take the Israelites on a three-day trip to the wilderness to offer sacrifices. But in verse 28 he doesn’t say, “Pray for me in a few days while you’re out there.” No, this time he asks for immediate prayer.
Even though he still struggled with a hard heart in later chapters, Pharaoh was beginning to learn his lesson: why wait?
Father, I am not so different from Pharaoh with my hard heart and my delayed or often omitted prayer. Help me finally come to realize the urgency in prayer to the point that it becomes second nature to do it at the exact moment a need presents itself.
Application:
Have you ever wondered if a situation could have been averted had you prayed about it sooner? I know I have. I Thess. 5:17 tells us to pray continually, which lends itself beautifully to timely, urgent prayer. Try to develop the habit of turning thoughts into prayers. It takes discipline, but it will enable you to stay in constant contact with The One who has it all under control.
Power Verses:
Exodus 8:28, “'All right, go ahead,’ Pharaoh replied. ‘I will let you go into the wilderness to offer sacrifices to the Lord your God. But don’t go too far away. Now hurry and pray for me.’”(NLT—emphasis mine)
Psalm 102:1, “God, listen! Listen to my prayer, listen to the pain in my cries. Don't turn your back on me just when I need you so desperately. Pay attention! This is a cry for help! And hurry—this can't wait!”(MSG)
Psalm 86:6, “Listen closely to my prayer, O Lord; hear my urgent cry.”(NLT)
Friday, March 20, 2009
How God Works
by Marsha Loftis
This Week's Verse: Isaiah 55:8 & 12, "'For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,' declares the LORD...You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands." (NIV)
Devotion:
I took my daughter to school one day this week and when I came back, I got my Bible out of the car. I brought it in the house, intending to read up on a little Isaiah 55-- a verse I got from a very dear friend--and see where that led me. But I didn't do it. I couldn’t find my copy of the Message, there was a pile of laundry on the floor, and other things occupied my mind and my time. (Forgive me Lord.)
So in the midst of doing other things (I had to take a signed “exit paper” back to TRW--not high on my list of "want to's" but pretty high on my list of "have to's"), I get a call from a brother in Christ telling me that a "little birdie" told him that I was down and needed a spiritual boost. I'm not down. The sun is shining, and the birds are singing. I feel pretty good, I thought.
Well, come to find out that even if you aren't 'down' that doesn't mean you can't be lifted higher! Praise God for this man's obedience and his "little bird"!! He told me to get in The Word and read and wrap myself up in God's love letter to me. Yeah, yeah... I will... when I have time is what I was thinking. I have every intention of doing that... when I find my Message, when I get this load of laundry done, when I get back from TRW... He also told me to take a drive or a walk and just be in God's creation, to enjoy the sun and all He's created for us. Okay, I will... when I have time. Being unemployed, I'm a lot busier than you would think!
I went to TRW and when I left I had a choice to either turn left and go home and get that laundry done, Oh! and get busy on Isaiah... Or turn right and go to Lincoln Trail and do some of that basking in God's creation we were just talking about. I went ahead and turned right. (Yes, I see the irony in taking the "right turn"!) I realized on the way down to the park that I had taken my Bible out of the car! Aw… man! I'd hoped to kill two birds with one stone: Creation and The Word!
There was, however, another Bible in the car, my daughter's. Score!! I was set. I found a lovely bench in the sun, out of the wind... Perfect! And then I read my Isaiah 55. Good stuff. Then I saw something: a side note. Her Bible has a lot of 'extra' goodies in there that make you think! I was looking up 2 Cor. 5-7 and missed it by a chapter or two and ended up in Galatians. She has "Love Notes" in her Bible. They are written in letter form, to the reader and are ‘signed’ by God. The Love Note on this page says: "Child, you are my daughter, adopted into my eternal family. There is nothing within my power and my possession that I will withhold from you. All my resources--power, forgiveness, grace and love--belong to you. Abba, Daddy."
Anyone who knows me very well knows the issues I have had with this particular name for God. You can imagine how I felt reading His 'love note' to me and it being signed 'Daddy'. It's based on the scripture from Gal. 4:4-7.
I'm not done. That was beautiful, yes. But then I remembered Jer. 29:11 and wondered if there were any 'love notes' for me there. Plus, I happen to love that verse and wanted to read it in this version. Well, in Jeremiah I find THIS 'love note'... "Beloved, Never doubt this: I want only the best for you. I will do whatever it takes to get your attention, to draw you closer to me and to wrap you in my everlasting love. You are my child, my chosen one. Your Loving Father" (Based on Jer. 31:3)
Okay, God. I don't have a job, the laundry can wait... You have my full attention! We had just talked about letting God “wrap” me up in His word!
Then comes the breath of God, the wind, which blew the pages to THIS 'love note' also in Jeremiah. It says: "Dear daughter, Don't set your expectations too low for me. Don't just give me easy, surface-level questions. Bring me your biggest problems, your toughest challenges, your deepest questions. I'll answer you and blow your mind in the process. Your all-powerful Father." (Based on Jer. 33:3)
I had just posted on Facebook that very morning this quote: "Not having a job is hard... Waiting on God is harder." Waiting on Him is, to date, one of the toughest challenges I've faced. But I know that He is with me while I wait!
Father God, Thank you! Thank you for using the people in my life to lift me up, even when I’m not sure I’m down. Thank you for leading me to the very words you want me hear. Thank you for your love letter to me and my brothers and sisters. Sometimes I call it irony, but in my heart I know it’s You, loving me, in just the way I need at just the right time. Thank you for knowing me and providing for my spiritual and physical needs. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Application:
God is always working and moving in our lives. Sometimes we see it and sometimes we don't. Look back over the past month, or year, or even five or ten years. Do you see God's fingerprints all over your life?! People, places, jobs, children... all brought into your life to serve a certain purpose. If you can look back and see yourself in God's hands, then you know that He is, has been, and will forever be in control, always wanting what's best for you!
Power Verses:
Galatians 4:6, "And because we are his children, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, prompting us to call out, 'Abba, Father.'"(NLT)
Jeremiah 31:3, "I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love.With unfailing love I have drawn you to myself." (NLT)
Jeremiah 33:3, "Call to me and I will answer you. I'll tell you marvelous and wondrous things that you could never figure out on your own."(MSG)
This Week's Verse: Isaiah 55:8 & 12, "'For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,' declares the LORD...You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands." (NIV)
Devotion:
I took my daughter to school one day this week and when I came back, I got my Bible out of the car. I brought it in the house, intending to read up on a little Isaiah 55-- a verse I got from a very dear friend--and see where that led me. But I didn't do it. I couldn’t find my copy of the Message, there was a pile of laundry on the floor, and other things occupied my mind and my time. (Forgive me Lord.)
So in the midst of doing other things (I had to take a signed “exit paper” back to TRW--not high on my list of "want to's" but pretty high on my list of "have to's"), I get a call from a brother in Christ telling me that a "little birdie" told him that I was down and needed a spiritual boost. I'm not down. The sun is shining, and the birds are singing. I feel pretty good, I thought.
Well, come to find out that even if you aren't 'down' that doesn't mean you can't be lifted higher! Praise God for this man's obedience and his "little bird"!! He told me to get in The Word and read and wrap myself up in God's love letter to me. Yeah, yeah... I will... when I have time is what I was thinking. I have every intention of doing that... when I find my Message, when I get this load of laundry done, when I get back from TRW... He also told me to take a drive or a walk and just be in God's creation, to enjoy the sun and all He's created for us. Okay, I will... when I have time. Being unemployed, I'm a lot busier than you would think!
I went to TRW and when I left I had a choice to either turn left and go home and get that laundry done, Oh! and get busy on Isaiah... Or turn right and go to Lincoln Trail and do some of that basking in God's creation we were just talking about. I went ahead and turned right. (Yes, I see the irony in taking the "right turn"!) I realized on the way down to the park that I had taken my Bible out of the car! Aw… man! I'd hoped to kill two birds with one stone: Creation and The Word!
There was, however, another Bible in the car, my daughter's. Score!! I was set. I found a lovely bench in the sun, out of the wind... Perfect! And then I read my Isaiah 55. Good stuff. Then I saw something: a side note. Her Bible has a lot of 'extra' goodies in there that make you think! I was looking up 2 Cor. 5-7 and missed it by a chapter or two and ended up in Galatians. She has "Love Notes" in her Bible. They are written in letter form, to the reader and are ‘signed’ by God. The Love Note on this page says: "Child, you are my daughter, adopted into my eternal family. There is nothing within my power and my possession that I will withhold from you. All my resources--power, forgiveness, grace and love--belong to you. Abba, Daddy."
Anyone who knows me very well knows the issues I have had with this particular name for God. You can imagine how I felt reading His 'love note' to me and it being signed 'Daddy'. It's based on the scripture from Gal. 4:4-7.
I'm not done. That was beautiful, yes. But then I remembered Jer. 29:11 and wondered if there were any 'love notes' for me there. Plus, I happen to love that verse and wanted to read it in this version. Well, in Jeremiah I find THIS 'love note'... "Beloved, Never doubt this: I want only the best for you. I will do whatever it takes to get your attention, to draw you closer to me and to wrap you in my everlasting love. You are my child, my chosen one. Your Loving Father" (Based on Jer. 31:3)
Okay, God. I don't have a job, the laundry can wait... You have my full attention! We had just talked about letting God “wrap” me up in His word!
Then comes the breath of God, the wind, which blew the pages to THIS 'love note' also in Jeremiah. It says: "Dear daughter, Don't set your expectations too low for me. Don't just give me easy, surface-level questions. Bring me your biggest problems, your toughest challenges, your deepest questions. I'll answer you and blow your mind in the process. Your all-powerful Father." (Based on Jer. 33:3)
I had just posted on Facebook that very morning this quote: "Not having a job is hard... Waiting on God is harder." Waiting on Him is, to date, one of the toughest challenges I've faced. But I know that He is with me while I wait!
Father God, Thank you! Thank you for using the people in my life to lift me up, even when I’m not sure I’m down. Thank you for leading me to the very words you want me hear. Thank you for your love letter to me and my brothers and sisters. Sometimes I call it irony, but in my heart I know it’s You, loving me, in just the way I need at just the right time. Thank you for knowing me and providing for my spiritual and physical needs. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Application:
God is always working and moving in our lives. Sometimes we see it and sometimes we don't. Look back over the past month, or year, or even five or ten years. Do you see God's fingerprints all over your life?! People, places, jobs, children... all brought into your life to serve a certain purpose. If you can look back and see yourself in God's hands, then you know that He is, has been, and will forever be in control, always wanting what's best for you!
Power Verses:
Galatians 4:6, "And because we are his children, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, prompting us to call out, 'Abba, Father.'"(NLT)
Jeremiah 31:3, "I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love.With unfailing love I have drawn you to myself." (NLT)
Jeremiah 33:3, "Call to me and I will answer you. I'll tell you marvelous and wondrous things that you could never figure out on your own."(MSG)
Friday, March 13, 2009
Gotta Have the Light
by Kathy Lay
This Week’s Verse: John 1:5, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.”(NLT)
Devotion:
Several weeks ago I’d noticed it wasn’t as hard to wake up when my alarm clock went off. It was no longer pitch black outside at 5:45! As the days passed, my wake up time grew even brighter and I found it increasingly easier to be up and at ‘em.
And then--due to daylight savings time--it ended abruptly. So now we’re back to pitch black awakenings, replete with groggy notions of calling in sick or half-asleep fantasies of being my own boss from home. I guess you could say I’m one of those people who needs the light function properly.
It’s been documented that the Vitamin D we get from the sun helps boost levels of melatonin and serotonin, hormones that help regulate sleep and contribute to feelings of well-being and happiness. Literally then, wallowing around a little in the light and letting it wash over us is good for us mentally, physically, and I’d even argue spiritually.
From a scriptural standpoint, to be in the light is living a righteous life in relationship with the Lord. Spending time in the Son is a spiritual boost of vitamin D and our spirit is lifted as it interacts with His. Oh yeah, life is good in the light.
And then, Bam! Who turned off the light switch? We’re blindsided as the enemy somehow gains a stronghold and we find ourselves in darkness.
When we’ve been warmed by the Light and then are suddenly thrown into cold darkness, it can send us reeling. We might despair. Be depressed. Shrivel and wilt like a plant that has given up searching for the brightness of day.
But, Praise God, darkness is always followed by light. For God's people, there’s not a single dark spell recorded in scripture that’s not followed by light. In fact, for the faithful, the end of the story includes basking in the brightest, purest Light for all eternity.
Whatever dark corner you’re in right now, rest assured—your Light is making His way toward you. Pray with the same hope of the Psalmist as he says, “but even in darkness I cannot hide from you. To you the night shines as bright as day. Darkness and light are the same to you” (Psalm 139:12, NLT).
Father, even as many of us are experiencing darkness in these uncertain times, pour out Your peace as we trust that You even use darkness for good. Dark is light to You. Sustain us until we once again humbly rejoice in Your light, giving You the Glory.
Application:
If you’re stumbling around in the dark, consider the little points of light that may be piercing through the black. What can you be grateful for even in times of trial? Spend some quiet time Son-bathing.
Power Verses:
Genesis 1:3-5, “Then God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light. And God saw that the light was good. Then he separated the light from the darkness. God called the light ‘day’ and the darkness ‘night.’ And evening passed and morning came, marking the first day.” (NLT)
Isaiah 9:2, “The people who walk in darkness will see a great light. For those who live in a land of deep darkness, a light will shine.” (NLT)
Psalm 97:11,”Light is shed upon the righteous and joy on the upright in heart.” (NIV)
This Week’s Verse: John 1:5, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.”(NLT)
Devotion:
Several weeks ago I’d noticed it wasn’t as hard to wake up when my alarm clock went off. It was no longer pitch black outside at 5:45! As the days passed, my wake up time grew even brighter and I found it increasingly easier to be up and at ‘em.
And then--due to daylight savings time--it ended abruptly. So now we’re back to pitch black awakenings, replete with groggy notions of calling in sick or half-asleep fantasies of being my own boss from home. I guess you could say I’m one of those people who needs the light function properly.
It’s been documented that the Vitamin D we get from the sun helps boost levels of melatonin and serotonin, hormones that help regulate sleep and contribute to feelings of well-being and happiness. Literally then, wallowing around a little in the light and letting it wash over us is good for us mentally, physically, and I’d even argue spiritually.
From a scriptural standpoint, to be in the light is living a righteous life in relationship with the Lord. Spending time in the Son is a spiritual boost of vitamin D and our spirit is lifted as it interacts with His. Oh yeah, life is good in the light.
And then, Bam! Who turned off the light switch? We’re blindsided as the enemy somehow gains a stronghold and we find ourselves in darkness.
When we’ve been warmed by the Light and then are suddenly thrown into cold darkness, it can send us reeling. We might despair. Be depressed. Shrivel and wilt like a plant that has given up searching for the brightness of day.
But, Praise God, darkness is always followed by light. For God's people, there’s not a single dark spell recorded in scripture that’s not followed by light. In fact, for the faithful, the end of the story includes basking in the brightest, purest Light for all eternity.
Whatever dark corner you’re in right now, rest assured—your Light is making His way toward you. Pray with the same hope of the Psalmist as he says, “but even in darkness I cannot hide from you. To you the night shines as bright as day. Darkness and light are the same to you” (Psalm 139:12, NLT).
Father, even as many of us are experiencing darkness in these uncertain times, pour out Your peace as we trust that You even use darkness for good. Dark is light to You. Sustain us until we once again humbly rejoice in Your light, giving You the Glory.
Application:
If you’re stumbling around in the dark, consider the little points of light that may be piercing through the black. What can you be grateful for even in times of trial? Spend some quiet time Son-bathing.
Power Verses:
Genesis 1:3-5, “Then God said, ‘Let there be light,’ and there was light. And God saw that the light was good. Then he separated the light from the darkness. God called the light ‘day’ and the darkness ‘night.’ And evening passed and morning came, marking the first day.” (NLT)
Isaiah 9:2, “The people who walk in darkness will see a great light. For those who live in a land of deep darkness, a light will shine.” (NLT)
Psalm 97:11,”Light is shed upon the righteous and joy on the upright in heart.” (NIV)
Friday, July 4, 2008
Deep Beyond the Surface
by Kathy Lay
This Week's Verse: Hosea 6:3, "Oh, that we might know the Lord! Let us press on to know him! Then he will respond to us as surely as the arrival of dawn or the coming of rains in early spring." (NLT)
Devotion:
Are you a people-watcher? It can be fun to sit and conjecture about the individuals walking by. You might observe, “That man is very well-dressed, but he doesn’t carry himself with much confidence.” Or, “That woman must be very proud of her body; she’s showing so much of it!”
These first-glance superficial speculations are just that, pure speculation. That well-dressed man may have just finished a bad interview. The scantily-clad gal might be seeking attention she’s not getting at home. The truth is, it’s difficult to learn much at all about people—especially what’s in their heart—based on a surface encounter.
The same is true with God. A superficial relationship will not reveal His heart. Warming a pew for an hour a week isn't enough. He has a profoundly deep and wonderful bond planned with each of us, but knowing Him personally is foundational for it to develop.
Has God seemed distant lately? Maybe even unreliable? Consider whether you have been spending enough time learning at the feet of the Teacher. This week’s verse indicates that learning about and knowing Him will bring Him to you.
Ask the Lord along on a walk so you can get to know each other. Study the Word and seek Him out at all times. Cultivating a cherished rapport with the Master opens the gate for Him to become as dependable as the seasonal rains and sunrise. Tuck that promise away in your own heart today as you open it up to mingle with His.
Lord, show us more and more of You. Put a desire in our hearts to seek Your ways with an intensity unlike any of us has seen before. Steady and guide us as we dive below the surface and explore the depths of You.
Application:
Specifically ask God to show you more of Him before you delve into the Word. Become involved in a Bible study.
Power Verses:
1 Samuel 2:12, "Now the sons of Eli were worthless men; they did not know the LORD." (NASB)
Jeremiah 31: 34, "And they will not need to teach their neighbors, nor will they need to teach their relatives, saying, ‘You should know the Lord.’ For everyone, from the least to the greatest, will know me already,' says the Lord. 'And I will forgive their wickedness, and I will never again remember their sins.'”(NLT)
Hosea 2:20, "I will betroth you to Me in faithfulness, And you shall know the LORD." (NKJV)
This Week's Verse: Hosea 6:3, "Oh, that we might know the Lord! Let us press on to know him! Then he will respond to us as surely as the arrival of dawn or the coming of rains in early spring." (NLT)
Devotion:
Are you a people-watcher? It can be fun to sit and conjecture about the individuals walking by. You might observe, “That man is very well-dressed, but he doesn’t carry himself with much confidence.” Or, “That woman must be very proud of her body; she’s showing so much of it!”
These first-glance superficial speculations are just that, pure speculation. That well-dressed man may have just finished a bad interview. The scantily-clad gal might be seeking attention she’s not getting at home. The truth is, it’s difficult to learn much at all about people—especially what’s in their heart—based on a surface encounter.
The same is true with God. A superficial relationship will not reveal His heart. Warming a pew for an hour a week isn't enough. He has a profoundly deep and wonderful bond planned with each of us, but knowing Him personally is foundational for it to develop.
Has God seemed distant lately? Maybe even unreliable? Consider whether you have been spending enough time learning at the feet of the Teacher. This week’s verse indicates that learning about and knowing Him will bring Him to you.
Ask the Lord along on a walk so you can get to know each other. Study the Word and seek Him out at all times. Cultivating a cherished rapport with the Master opens the gate for Him to become as dependable as the seasonal rains and sunrise. Tuck that promise away in your own heart today as you open it up to mingle with His.
Lord, show us more and more of You. Put a desire in our hearts to seek Your ways with an intensity unlike any of us has seen before. Steady and guide us as we dive below the surface and explore the depths of You.
Application:
Specifically ask God to show you more of Him before you delve into the Word. Become involved in a Bible study.
Power Verses:
1 Samuel 2:12, "Now the sons of Eli were worthless men; they did not know the LORD." (NASB)
Jeremiah 31: 34, "And they will not need to teach their neighbors, nor will they need to teach their relatives, saying, ‘You should know the Lord.’ For everyone, from the least to the greatest, will know me already,' says the Lord. 'And I will forgive their wickedness, and I will never again remember their sins.'”(NLT)
Hosea 2:20, "I will betroth you to Me in faithfulness, And you shall know the LORD." (NKJV)
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