"When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet." Proverbs 31:21
When the "blizzard" hit last week here in New England, I immediately thought of one of my favorite Bible personalities - Mrs. Proverbs 31!
You gotta love that Proverbs 31 Woman! Let's face it. She set the standard that we all try to reach for, right? I must confess that for a good part of my christian life I really didn't care too much for Mrs. 31. To me she was the "Valedictorian of Today's Christian Woman" who seemingly effortlessly aced all the tests one by one, and I --well I was just average me who kept swinging but was always falling short.
I mean, really. I'm no "merchant ship bringing food from afar". The best I can do is a quick BJ's run in the midst of a crazy jam-packed day. I can't say I've had much experience being one who "considers a field and buys it" , although you will likely find me at Kohl's the end of this month considering filling my cart with clearance items for my grandchildren for the coming year. No matter how much I might aspire to move in her circles, I just don't measure up.
Then one day I realized that Mrs. 31 wasn't really who I was supposed to be trying to be. I am supposed to be the best "me" that I can be as I follow my Lord Jesus. Her attributes are a wonderful model for me but they were written down for one purpose - to encourage me to reach for everything that God created me to be in Christ Jesus.
If I had to choose 2 verses out of this chapter that I really want to be true in my life this year, it would be verses 25-26:
"She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can
laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom,
and faithful instruction is on her tongue."
Okay Mrs. 31. The Lord obviously had your attention and now you have mine. Thank you for taking your relationship with Him so seriously. I wonder if you know how many people have noticed...
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
From Frustration to Desperation
"As the deer pants for streams of water, so I long for you, O God." Psalm 42:1
"I am so frustrated!" "Something has to change!" "I can't live like this anymore!" Does this sound familiar? We all come to points in our journey of faith that cause us to throw up our hands in frustration; frustration with our circumstances, frustration with our own compromising behaviors, frustration with "doing the same thing and expecting a different result." Frustration in and of itself doesn't produce much that we could see as positive. Frustration in our lives can cause us to be irritable, impatient and often impossible to live with. But......if we allow frustration to push us toward the next level in our spiritual walk, it can actually be a good thing. Simply stated: We begin to change, not when we are frustrated--we begin to change when we are desperate.
In Psalm 42:1 the writer gives us a beautiful picture of spiritual desperation. We all understand what it means to be thirsty. You know, the I can't think of anything else at that moment but getting a drink of water kind of thirsty? That's the kind of thirst and desperation I want to have for the Lord. I must admit that all too often I'm not thirsty enough. I allow other concerns and desires to step in and interfere with that "thirsty walk". Lord, make me desperately thirsty for you.
How about you? Are you at a point of frustration or desperation! There's a big difference.
"I am so frustrated!" "Something has to change!" "I can't live like this anymore!" Does this sound familiar? We all come to points in our journey of faith that cause us to throw up our hands in frustration; frustration with our circumstances, frustration with our own compromising behaviors, frustration with "doing the same thing and expecting a different result." Frustration in and of itself doesn't produce much that we could see as positive. Frustration in our lives can cause us to be irritable, impatient and often impossible to live with. But......if we allow frustration to push us toward the next level in our spiritual walk, it can actually be a good thing. Simply stated: We begin to change, not when we are frustrated--we begin to change when we are desperate.
In Psalm 42:1 the writer gives us a beautiful picture of spiritual desperation. We all understand what it means to be thirsty. You know, the I can't think of anything else at that moment but getting a drink of water kind of thirsty? That's the kind of thirst and desperation I want to have for the Lord. I must admit that all too often I'm not thirsty enough. I allow other concerns and desires to step in and interfere with that "thirsty walk". Lord, make me desperately thirsty for you.
How about you? Are you at a point of frustration or desperation! There's a big difference.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Retreat Reflections - 2010
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will direct your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6
What a powerful week-end we had at the Women's Retreat! As usual, the Lord showed himself in such a loving and peaceful way.
Our theme for the week-end was "Loving To Trust". We were reminded that the foundation for trusting in Christ must be love. In order for us to truly trust him we must be assured of his enduring love for us.
We used the song, "How He Loves" as our theme song for the week-end. The first line of the song says, "He is jealous for me...". For so many of us, that sounds great in our minds but our hearts often have difficulty accepting and believing that as truth even though the scripture says exactly that. If God is jealous for me then that means that He must think about me all the time. In Isaiah 49:16 God says, "I have engraved you on the palms of my hands..."
So many of us these days have "trust issues". We have been wounded, betrayed, used or violated by those we trusted. As women especially, we need to feel safe. Jesus offers us the security that our hearts long for. So often we have tried to find that security in people, possessions, position, etc.. but we always came up short.
Augustine said, "Our hearts are restless until they find their rest in thee."
What a powerful week-end we had at the Women's Retreat! As usual, the Lord showed himself in such a loving and peaceful way.
Our theme for the week-end was "Loving To Trust". We were reminded that the foundation for trusting in Christ must be love. In order for us to truly trust him we must be assured of his enduring love for us.
We used the song, "How He Loves" as our theme song for the week-end. The first line of the song says, "He is jealous for me...". For so many of us, that sounds great in our minds but our hearts often have difficulty accepting and believing that as truth even though the scripture says exactly that. If God is jealous for me then that means that He must think about me all the time. In Isaiah 49:16 God says, "I have engraved you on the palms of my hands..."
So many of us these days have "trust issues". We have been wounded, betrayed, used or violated by those we trusted. As women especially, we need to feel safe. Jesus offers us the security that our hearts long for. So often we have tried to find that security in people, possessions, position, etc.. but we always came up short.
Augustine said, "Our hearts are restless until they find their rest in thee."
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Well I Just Think....
"People may be pure in their own eyes, but the Lord examines their motives." Proverbs 16:2
In one of our recent Women's Bible Studies we talked about 4 of the most dangerous words that can be spoken, "Well I just think..." Yes, we've all ventured down that winding road at one time or another haven't we?
For those who have decided against surrendering their hearts and lives to Christ, "Well I just think..." is really a convenient way to say - "Im not interested." Usually "Well I just think" is followed by something like: "if you try to be a good person" or "all roads are leading to heaven anyway" or the ever popular "You just have to do the best you can and hope everything works out alright". Hmmm. These all sound good don't they? The only problem is that Jesus himself always gets in the way when he said in John 14:6, "I am the way, the truth and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me." Not much wiggle room there.
For the rest of us who have a relationship with Christ but often wrestle with that little "O" word (obedience), those other 4 words probably roll off the end of our tongues alot more often that they should. How about: "Well I just think you have to speak your mind and if people don't like it--too bad", or "Well I just think that what I do in my free time is nobody else's business," or finally, "Well I just think that God would want me to be happy". Hmmm. Again, sounds good doesn't it? You know what though? I just can't seem to shake the last half of Proverbs 16:2 - "...but the Lord examines their motives." Ouch!
Webster's Dictionary defines motive as - something (a need or desire) that causes a person to act. In Psalm 139:23-24 David asks the Lord, "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life."
Are we there yet?
In one of our recent Women's Bible Studies we talked about 4 of the most dangerous words that can be spoken, "Well I just think..." Yes, we've all ventured down that winding road at one time or another haven't we?
For those who have decided against surrendering their hearts and lives to Christ, "Well I just think..." is really a convenient way to say - "Im not interested." Usually "Well I just think" is followed by something like: "if you try to be a good person" or "all roads are leading to heaven anyway" or the ever popular "You just have to do the best you can and hope everything works out alright". Hmmm. These all sound good don't they? The only problem is that Jesus himself always gets in the way when he said in John 14:6, "I am the way, the truth and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me." Not much wiggle room there.
For the rest of us who have a relationship with Christ but often wrestle with that little "O" word (obedience), those other 4 words probably roll off the end of our tongues alot more often that they should. How about: "Well I just think you have to speak your mind and if people don't like it--too bad", or "Well I just think that what I do in my free time is nobody else's business," or finally, "Well I just think that God would want me to be happy". Hmmm. Again, sounds good doesn't it? You know what though? I just can't seem to shake the last half of Proverbs 16:2 - "...but the Lord examines their motives." Ouch!
Webster's Dictionary defines motive as - something (a need or desire) that causes a person to act. In Psalm 139:23-24 David asks the Lord, "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life."
Are we there yet?
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Less Is More
"A truly wise person uses few words; a person with understanding is even tempered. Even fools are thought to be wise when they keep silent; when they keep their mouths shut, they seem intelligent." Proverbs 17:27-28
"That's just how I am. If I'm thinking it--I'm going to say it!" How many times have we heard that remark or perhaps said it ourselves? Sounds very assertive, self-confident and independent doesn't it? According to the scripture though, that is an unwise attitude and one that can often get us in trouble. Proverbs 10:19 says, "When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise."
As we recently talked about at Women's Bible Study, we've all said things impulsively and the second the words left our mouths we knew we shouldn't have said them. How many marriages have been deeply damaged by thoughtless words spoken during times of pressure or frustration? How many friendships have been forever altered by gossip or hurtful remarks made as a result of misunderstanding? How many parent/child relationships have been scarred by angry accusations made during times of stress or struggle?
James 1:19-20 tells us, "...Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires."
I'm still learning that my tongue so often has a mind of it's own and that I need to continually bring it under the authority of Christ. The good news is that the same tongue that can cause so much pain and heartache can also be a messenger of healing and restoration if we humbly lay it on the altar of surrender and brokenness. Proverbs 15:4a says, "The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life..."
Some of the sweetest words the tongue can utter are, "I'm so sorry" and "I forgive you". It's never too late to allow God to fix situations and people who have been damaged by the tongue.
"That's just how I am. If I'm thinking it--I'm going to say it!" How many times have we heard that remark or perhaps said it ourselves? Sounds very assertive, self-confident and independent doesn't it? According to the scripture though, that is an unwise attitude and one that can often get us in trouble. Proverbs 10:19 says, "When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise."
As we recently talked about at Women's Bible Study, we've all said things impulsively and the second the words left our mouths we knew we shouldn't have said them. How many marriages have been deeply damaged by thoughtless words spoken during times of pressure or frustration? How many friendships have been forever altered by gossip or hurtful remarks made as a result of misunderstanding? How many parent/child relationships have been scarred by angry accusations made during times of stress or struggle?
James 1:19-20 tells us, "...Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires."
I'm still learning that my tongue so often has a mind of it's own and that I need to continually bring it under the authority of Christ. The good news is that the same tongue that can cause so much pain and heartache can also be a messenger of healing and restoration if we humbly lay it on the altar of surrender and brokenness. Proverbs 15:4a says, "The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life..."
Some of the sweetest words the tongue can utter are, "I'm so sorry" and "I forgive you". It's never too late to allow God to fix situations and people who have been damaged by the tongue.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
What A Job Description!
"But it is actually best for you that I go away, because if I don't, the Counselor won't come. If I do go away, he will come because I will send him to you."
John 16:7
I love John chapter 16 because Jesus is showing himself to be exactly who he is--the loving shepherd, forever looking out for his sheep. He is about to step onto the most horrendous path that any of us could imagine. He is on his way to the cross--and he knows it. Being fully aware of that mission and preparing himself for all that will be asked of him, he wants to be sure his sheep are taken care of. He is telling and teaching his disciples (and us) about the wonderful yet mysterious Holy Spirit that he is sending in his place.
Beginning in verse 8 he begins to outline the job description, if you will, of the Holy Spirit. Let's briefly take a look:
1) He will convince the world of sin and of God's righteousness
and the coming judgment
2) He will guide us into all truth (vs. 13)
3) He will tell us what He has heard
4) He will tell us the future
5) He will bring glory to Jesus by revealing to us
whatever He receives from Jesus (vs. 14)
The Holy Spirit has been sent for our benefit. He is God in Spirit and He is with us and in us if we know Christ as our Savior. All of the things listed in His job description are the things He came to do for you.
Are you asking for the wisdom and direction of the Holy Spirit in all you do? He is here for you.
John 16:7
I love John chapter 16 because Jesus is showing himself to be exactly who he is--the loving shepherd, forever looking out for his sheep. He is about to step onto the most horrendous path that any of us could imagine. He is on his way to the cross--and he knows it. Being fully aware of that mission and preparing himself for all that will be asked of him, he wants to be sure his sheep are taken care of. He is telling and teaching his disciples (and us) about the wonderful yet mysterious Holy Spirit that he is sending in his place.
Beginning in verse 8 he begins to outline the job description, if you will, of the Holy Spirit. Let's briefly take a look:
1) He will convince the world of sin and of God's righteousness
and the coming judgment
2) He will guide us into all truth (vs. 13)
3) He will tell us what He has heard
4) He will tell us the future
5) He will bring glory to Jesus by revealing to us
whatever He receives from Jesus (vs. 14)
The Holy Spirit has been sent for our benefit. He is God in Spirit and He is with us and in us if we know Christ as our Savior. All of the things listed in His job description are the things He came to do for you.
Are you asking for the wisdom and direction of the Holy Spirit in all you do? He is here for you.
Monday, June 28, 2010
Retreat Reflections III - 4 Questions God Will Ask
"For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him." 2 Chronicles 16:9a
This blog entry is the last in a brief series highlighting some of the issues we touched on at our Spring Women's Retreat. The last entry mentioned 4 questions God will never ask. This time we will briefly touch on 4 questions God will and does ask of each of us at different times:
1) Do you love me? (John 21:15-17)
2) Do you believe? (Mark 9:24)
3) Is this really what you want? (Proverbs 14:12)
4) Are you ready to let go? (Matthew 10:39)
As a student in high school, I discovered that my favorite teacher was an American History teacher who was always asking questions. I learned the most from him because he made me think and search and explore and ask why!
As one who enjoys teaching now, I often find the most effective way to get a point across is to ask questions and cause those I am teaching to search for the truth. When it comes to the issues of life and purpose and reality, there is only one truth - His name is Jesus. He said in John 10:10, " I am the way, the truth and the life, no man comes to the Father but through me." He never forced himself on anyone when he walked this earth. The same is still true today--God will never force himself on you. But he will ask you some very pointed questions in order to get you to think and search and explore. He doesn't even mind if we ask "why" but the answers may not always come when we think we need them. Psalm 18:30 says that His ways are perfect.
God is looking for committed hearts. Look at the 4 questions above and allow Him to ask them of you.
"He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose." Jim Elliot
This blog entry is the last in a brief series highlighting some of the issues we touched on at our Spring Women's Retreat. The last entry mentioned 4 questions God will never ask. This time we will briefly touch on 4 questions God will and does ask of each of us at different times:
1) Do you love me? (John 21:15-17)
2) Do you believe? (Mark 9:24)
3) Is this really what you want? (Proverbs 14:12)
4) Are you ready to let go? (Matthew 10:39)
As a student in high school, I discovered that my favorite teacher was an American History teacher who was always asking questions. I learned the most from him because he made me think and search and explore and ask why!
As one who enjoys teaching now, I often find the most effective way to get a point across is to ask questions and cause those I am teaching to search for the truth. When it comes to the issues of life and purpose and reality, there is only one truth - His name is Jesus. He said in John 10:10, " I am the way, the truth and the life, no man comes to the Father but through me." He never forced himself on anyone when he walked this earth. The same is still true today--God will never force himself on you. But he will ask you some very pointed questions in order to get you to think and search and explore. He doesn't even mind if we ask "why" but the answers may not always come when we think we need them. Psalm 18:30 says that His ways are perfect.
God is looking for committed hearts. Look at the 4 questions above and allow Him to ask them of you.
"He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose." Jim Elliot
Friday, June 4, 2010
Retreat Reflections II - 4 Questions God Never Asks
"My thoughts are completely different from yours," says the Lord. "And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine." Isaiah 55:8-9
For those of you who did not get a chance to go on our Spring Retreat, we talked at one point about 4 questions that God never asks. Let me outline them to you briefly:
1) Are you comfortable?
2) What can I do to make you like me?
3) When would you like this trial to end?
4) Is this a good time to talk?
We all chuckled to ourselves as these were read but our laughter turned to reflection pretty quickly. Perhaps because we have all grown up in this western "me centered" society, we forget that God isn't concerned about our comfort, our wants and our priorities. He loves us too much to be distracted by such things. His main goal for all of us is that we would be made more like his Son Jesus. That can only happen as we allow Him to totally change the way we think. Romans 12:2 says, " Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know what God wants you to do, and you will know how good and pleasing and perfect his will really is."
Next post we will look at some questions that God does ask us and how to look for the answers.
For those of you who did not get a chance to go on our Spring Retreat, we talked at one point about 4 questions that God never asks. Let me outline them to you briefly:
1) Are you comfortable?
2) What can I do to make you like me?
3) When would you like this trial to end?
4) Is this a good time to talk?
We all chuckled to ourselves as these were read but our laughter turned to reflection pretty quickly. Perhaps because we have all grown up in this western "me centered" society, we forget that God isn't concerned about our comfort, our wants and our priorities. He loves us too much to be distracted by such things. His main goal for all of us is that we would be made more like his Son Jesus. That can only happen as we allow Him to totally change the way we think. Romans 12:2 says, " Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know what God wants you to do, and you will know how good and pleasing and perfect his will really is."
Next post we will look at some questions that God does ask us and how to look for the answers.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Retreat Reflections
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law." Galatians 5:22-23
What a wonderful week-end we had at our retreat! For those of you who could not make it and for others who read this blog, I would like to take the next couple of entries to highlight some of what we talked about regarding the fruit of the Spirit.
First, let me remind us that the wording in Galatians is "fruit" of the Spirit and not "fruits" of the Spirit. God's Holy Spirit actually blesses us with one giant "fruit" if you will, with many parts. We often think of getting some fruits and not others, but actually the Lord give us the whole package when we surrender ourselves to the working of His Holy Spirit. Some parts of the fruit, however, are more evident than others at certain times in our lives.
I believe that love is the first part of the fruit that is mentioned here for a reason. Love must be the foundation for all of the other parts of the fruit of the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 13 tells us that without love--we are nothing. Once we truly grasp just how much our Father loves us and receive that love from Him and others in the body of Christ, we are then in a position to be able to surrender and allow the rest of the fruit to work its way into our hearts.
If you sense you are missing peace--go back and check your love. If you aren't walking in joy--go back and check your love. If gentleness isn't evident in your walk--go back and check your love. 1 John 4:10 says,"...this is love, not that we loved Him but that He loved us and sent His Son... As we daily set aside time with God we are keeping that line of communication open that helps us receive all that He has for us and continually confirms to us how much He loves us. That's why the enemy fights so hard to keep us from spending time with the Lord. He knows what can happen when we know who we are in Christ and walk in His love.
Set aside that time today. Even if it's just 5 minutes it will be the best 5 minutes you spend all day.
What a wonderful week-end we had at our retreat! For those of you who could not make it and for others who read this blog, I would like to take the next couple of entries to highlight some of what we talked about regarding the fruit of the Spirit.
First, let me remind us that the wording in Galatians is "fruit" of the Spirit and not "fruits" of the Spirit. God's Holy Spirit actually blesses us with one giant "fruit" if you will, with many parts. We often think of getting some fruits and not others, but actually the Lord give us the whole package when we surrender ourselves to the working of His Holy Spirit. Some parts of the fruit, however, are more evident than others at certain times in our lives.
I believe that love is the first part of the fruit that is mentioned here for a reason. Love must be the foundation for all of the other parts of the fruit of the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 13 tells us that without love--we are nothing. Once we truly grasp just how much our Father loves us and receive that love from Him and others in the body of Christ, we are then in a position to be able to surrender and allow the rest of the fruit to work its way into our hearts.
If you sense you are missing peace--go back and check your love. If you aren't walking in joy--go back and check your love. If gentleness isn't evident in your walk--go back and check your love. 1 John 4:10 says,"...this is love, not that we loved Him but that He loved us and sent His Son... As we daily set aside time with God we are keeping that line of communication open that helps us receive all that He has for us and continually confirms to us how much He loves us. That's why the enemy fights so hard to keep us from spending time with the Lord. He knows what can happen when we know who we are in Christ and walk in His love.
Set aside that time today. Even if it's just 5 minutes it will be the best 5 minutes you spend all day.
Friday, April 23, 2010
No Cost Refi?
"...For I will not offer burnt offerings to the Lord my God which cost me nothing..."
2 Samuel 24:24
My husband have been considering taking advantage of the low interest rate offers for refinancing our home. After some considerable research, we came across a product that sounds pretty enticing. It's called a "No Cost Refi". Wow! Who could pass that up? No cost--really? Well, actually it does cost, just not up front. Still in all though, not a bad idea.
As often as I can, I try to see if there are any parallels to what is going on in the natural in my life to what God may be doing in the spiritual. So I asked myself, "What about a 'No Cost Refi' in my spiritual life"? Do I find myself "shopping" for the spiritual relationship that doesn't cost me much or for the church that doesn't ask much? Is bargain hunting a wise idea when it comes to spiritual things? Do I often approach my relationship with Christ like I do other areas in my life? Am I always looking for the best deal?
King David was a man after God's heart, not because he was perfect but because his heart was humble before God. He received correction, he desired to know God's will and maybe more than anything--he understood the meaning of sacrifice. In this passage, David was building an altar to the Lord in order to sacrifice and stop the plague on the people of Israel which his own sin had caused. Araunah the Jebusite not only sold David his threshing floor on which the altar could be built but also offered to give David the sacrifice as well. David knew this could not be. He could not make a sacrifice to the Lord which didn't cost him anything. You see, a sacrifice is not a sacrifice if it doesn't cost us something!
How expensive is your walk with Christ?
2 Samuel 24:24
My husband have been considering taking advantage of the low interest rate offers for refinancing our home. After some considerable research, we came across a product that sounds pretty enticing. It's called a "No Cost Refi". Wow! Who could pass that up? No cost--really? Well, actually it does cost, just not up front. Still in all though, not a bad idea.
As often as I can, I try to see if there are any parallels to what is going on in the natural in my life to what God may be doing in the spiritual. So I asked myself, "What about a 'No Cost Refi' in my spiritual life"? Do I find myself "shopping" for the spiritual relationship that doesn't cost me much or for the church that doesn't ask much? Is bargain hunting a wise idea when it comes to spiritual things? Do I often approach my relationship with Christ like I do other areas in my life? Am I always looking for the best deal?
King David was a man after God's heart, not because he was perfect but because his heart was humble before God. He received correction, he desired to know God's will and maybe more than anything--he understood the meaning of sacrifice. In this passage, David was building an altar to the Lord in order to sacrifice and stop the plague on the people of Israel which his own sin had caused. Araunah the Jebusite not only sold David his threshing floor on which the altar could be built but also offered to give David the sacrifice as well. David knew this could not be. He could not make a sacrifice to the Lord which didn't cost him anything. You see, a sacrifice is not a sacrifice if it doesn't cost us something!
How expensive is your walk with Christ?
Saturday, April 3, 2010
If Christ Did Not Rise
"...And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is vain, your faith also is vain." I Corinthinas 15:14
Christ is Risen! Indeed, He is Risen! This traditional orthodox greeting will be heard in millions of churches around the world this Easter Sunday. It is known as the "Paschal Greeting" taken from the Latanized spelling of the Hebrew word "Pesach" or "Passover".
Many times we shrink back at the mention of the word tradition and quite honestly many traditions unfortunately become meaningless half-hearted attempts at going through the motions of some long forgotten ritual. But many others are timeless and powerful. The Paschal Greeting seems to be at the top of that list.
I love the directness of the Apostle Paul in I Corinthians 15:14. He is basically telling those struggling Corinthian christians, "Listen up folks! If Jesus Christ did not rise from the dead, then my preaching is a waste of time and, by the way, your faith is a waste of time as well."
The resurrection is central to all that we are and proclaim to be as believers. It is the focal point for everything that we are and believe and do--it defines us!
Sadly, I must confess that I am so often defined by pride, worry, concern and frustration. This is an obvious sign that my focal point is so often--me. Forgive me, Lord. As a follower I am to reflect You to this hurting world.
There is beautiful old chorus that our church often sings at our Sunrise Service each Easter:
I live, I live because You have risen
I live, I live to worship You
Thank you, Jesus
Thank you, Jesus
Because You're alive, because You're alive
Because You're alive--I live.
Christ is Risen! Indeed He is Risen!
Christ is Risen! Indeed, He is Risen! This traditional orthodox greeting will be heard in millions of churches around the world this Easter Sunday. It is known as the "Paschal Greeting" taken from the Latanized spelling of the Hebrew word "Pesach" or "Passover".
Many times we shrink back at the mention of the word tradition and quite honestly many traditions unfortunately become meaningless half-hearted attempts at going through the motions of some long forgotten ritual. But many others are timeless and powerful. The Paschal Greeting seems to be at the top of that list.
I love the directness of the Apostle Paul in I Corinthians 15:14. He is basically telling those struggling Corinthian christians, "Listen up folks! If Jesus Christ did not rise from the dead, then my preaching is a waste of time and, by the way, your faith is a waste of time as well."
The resurrection is central to all that we are and proclaim to be as believers. It is the focal point for everything that we are and believe and do--it defines us!
Sadly, I must confess that I am so often defined by pride, worry, concern and frustration. This is an obvious sign that my focal point is so often--me. Forgive me, Lord. As a follower I am to reflect You to this hurting world.
There is beautiful old chorus that our church often sings at our Sunrise Service each Easter:
I live, I live because You have risen
I live, I live to worship You
Thank you, Jesus
Thank you, Jesus
Because You're alive, because You're alive
Because You're alive--I live.
Christ is Risen! Indeed He is Risen!
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Help Is On The Way
"As for me, I am poor and needy, but the Lord is thinking about me right now. You are my helper and my Savior. do not delay, O my God." Psalm 40:17
People say that time will heal
But you know, they just don't feel what you feel
Times are hard but God is so good
He's never failed you, and he said He never would
He sees your tears
He fights your fears
Hold on, help is on the way
He said he'd never leave you or forsake you
Stay strong
Help is on the way
He said he's help you
Just reach out and take his hand
He knows your heart, He lifts your head
He's always close enough to hear every word you said
When you're weak, He said He's so much more
His arm is long enough to reach you where you are
He sees your tears
He fights your fears
Hold on - Help is on the way...
Words and Music by Michael W. Smith
People say that time will heal
But you know, they just don't feel what you feel
Times are hard but God is so good
He's never failed you, and he said He never would
He sees your tears
He fights your fears
Hold on, help is on the way
He said he'd never leave you or forsake you
Stay strong
Help is on the way
He said he's help you
Just reach out and take his hand
He knows your heart, He lifts your head
He's always close enough to hear every word you said
When you're weak, He said He's so much more
His arm is long enough to reach you where you are
He sees your tears
He fights your fears
Hold on - Help is on the way...
Words and Music by Michael W. Smith
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Are You Neck -Reined?
"Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, 'This is the way; walk in it.'" Isaiah 30:21
Horses are a curious animal. They each have their own personality and level of willingness to obey. I guess you could say they are a lot like us humans actually. I learned as a youngster that the reins that are connected to the horse's bridle are the means by which they are controlled.
Some horses have to be forced to go to the right or left or to back up by pulling hard on the reins from one side or the other or straight back. They still have a mind of their own and have not been fully taught to follow their master's leading. They get confused, frustrated and down right stubborn at times and getting them to obey can often be a test of wills. These animals consistently try their owners and often make riding them a chore rather than a delight.
There are others though, those that have been completely broken, that need only a slight nudge or to simply have the reins laid over on one side of their neck or the other to move obediently to the right or to the left. The rider need only to barely lay the leather against the animal's neck to easily obtain the desired response. Slight nudges with the heels or clicking of the tongue are all that is often necessary to begin the ride. Riding these horses is simply a pleasure. No battle is necessary, the animal almost anticipates the desire of it's master. His master's will becomes his own.
Is the spiritual lesson obvious? Have you been broken before your Lord to the point that His will has become yours? Are you neck-reined?
Horses are a curious animal. They each have their own personality and level of willingness to obey. I guess you could say they are a lot like us humans actually. I learned as a youngster that the reins that are connected to the horse's bridle are the means by which they are controlled.
Some horses have to be forced to go to the right or left or to back up by pulling hard on the reins from one side or the other or straight back. They still have a mind of their own and have not been fully taught to follow their master's leading. They get confused, frustrated and down right stubborn at times and getting them to obey can often be a test of wills. These animals consistently try their owners and often make riding them a chore rather than a delight.
There are others though, those that have been completely broken, that need only a slight nudge or to simply have the reins laid over on one side of their neck or the other to move obediently to the right or to the left. The rider need only to barely lay the leather against the animal's neck to easily obtain the desired response. Slight nudges with the heels or clicking of the tongue are all that is often necessary to begin the ride. Riding these horses is simply a pleasure. No battle is necessary, the animal almost anticipates the desire of it's master. His master's will becomes his own.
Is the spiritual lesson obvious? Have you been broken before your Lord to the point that His will has become yours? Are you neck-reined?
Monday, February 1, 2010
Where Does My Help Come From?
"I lift up my eyes to the hills--where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth." Psalm 121:1-2
How often do you look up? No, I mean really, "How often do you look up?" If you're like me you spend a lot of time looking around - at your situation and circumstances, a significant amount of time looking down--perhaps because you don't want to connect with others or deal with certain situations, and way too much time looking inward--focusing on your own struggles, disappointments and frustrations.
The Psalmist, in this case many believe it was Hezekiah, knew how to get his perspective adjusted right away. Notice he says, "I lift up my eyes to the hills". This was a willful choice on his part to lift up his eyes. In order to look up at the hills he had to stop looking around and down and in. We can only look one direction at a time. We have to choose where we will look.
As soon as he looked up he realized where his help comes from - "...the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth." If we're looking for help from anywhere else we will likely be disappointed along the way.
Looked up lately?
How often do you look up? No, I mean really, "How often do you look up?" If you're like me you spend a lot of time looking around - at your situation and circumstances, a significant amount of time looking down--perhaps because you don't want to connect with others or deal with certain situations, and way too much time looking inward--focusing on your own struggles, disappointments and frustrations.
The Psalmist, in this case many believe it was Hezekiah, knew how to get his perspective adjusted right away. Notice he says, "I lift up my eyes to the hills". This was a willful choice on his part to lift up his eyes. In order to look up at the hills he had to stop looking around and down and in. We can only look one direction at a time. We have to choose where we will look.
As soon as he looked up he realized where his help comes from - "...the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth." If we're looking for help from anywhere else we will likely be disappointed along the way.
Looked up lately?
Thursday, January 21, 2010
One Thing I Know
"...because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him for that day." 2 Timothy 1:12
On my first break back home from my freshman year in college, my Dad asked me a question, "Well, now that you're in college what have you learned?" I distinctly remember answering, "I've learned that there is a whole lot that I don't know!"
After nearly 30 years in ministry I hear myself saying the same thing, "The older I get, the more I realize that there is so much I don't know!" But you know what? That's OK with me. I would be foolish to pretend that I have all of the answers. My goodness, I don't even know all the questions!
In ministering to those who are questioning their neglect or abuse by a family member, or rejection, or grieving the loss of a loved one, I often hear myself saying, " I don't know..." What I do know is that God loves me and he loves you, that he desires to bring good out of the most painful situations, and that someday when we get to heaven our questions will be answered and the pain and tears of this life will be but a brief memory. That is what I hang my hat on when things around me don't make sense. I have to trust the heart of the One who loved me so much that he gave his life in exchange for mine.
Paul said in 2 Timothy 1:12 that even in the midst of suffering he held on to the fact that he knew who he had believed and was fully convinced that the Lord was able to take care of what he had entrusted to him. Because of what he did know, it was OK to admit the things that he didn't know.
What do you know?
On my first break back home from my freshman year in college, my Dad asked me a question, "Well, now that you're in college what have you learned?" I distinctly remember answering, "I've learned that there is a whole lot that I don't know!"
After nearly 30 years in ministry I hear myself saying the same thing, "The older I get, the more I realize that there is so much I don't know!" But you know what? That's OK with me. I would be foolish to pretend that I have all of the answers. My goodness, I don't even know all the questions!
In ministering to those who are questioning their neglect or abuse by a family member, or rejection, or grieving the loss of a loved one, I often hear myself saying, " I don't know..." What I do know is that God loves me and he loves you, that he desires to bring good out of the most painful situations, and that someday when we get to heaven our questions will be answered and the pain and tears of this life will be but a brief memory. That is what I hang my hat on when things around me don't make sense. I have to trust the heart of the One who loved me so much that he gave his life in exchange for mine.
Paul said in 2 Timothy 1:12 that even in the midst of suffering he held on to the fact that he knew who he had believed and was fully convinced that the Lord was able to take care of what he had entrusted to him. Because of what he did know, it was OK to admit the things that he didn't know.
What do you know?
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