"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."
Sunday, October 17, 2010
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.
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