GOD’s Timing

Luke 13: ¹⁰ Now He was teaching in one of the synagogues on the Sabbath. ¹¹ And behold, there was a woman who had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bent over and could in no way raise herself up. ¹² But when Jesus saw her, He called her to Him and said to her, “Woman, you are loosed from your infirmity.” ¹³ And He laid His hands on her, and immediately she was made straight, and glorified God.

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Day after day, the problem still persisted. “Is GOD even listening?” I asked. I mean it has been years and it seemed like the problem would not subside. “What are YOU waiting on?” I said.

• There have been many days when I wondered if GOD was even with me.
• There have been many days when I wondered if GOD was too busy punishing me to listen to my prayers.
• There have been many days when I wondered if GOD was being sadistic, withholding HIS mighty power from me because of my many sins.

The woman with a “spirit of infirmity” could in no way “raise herself up.” She tried everything in her might to unbend herself for eighteen years. Eighteen years! JESUS saw her, called her over, touched her and healed her from the crippling spirit. She praised GOD.

• GOD wants me to practice praising HIM even when my problem has not ended.
• GOD wants me to practice praising HIM because HIS timing is perfect.
• GOD wants me to practice praising HIM through difficult times because HE can use me to show others, who are in the same situation, that HE is powerful, even in my weakness.

GOD doesn’t gloat at my pain and to the contrary of my thinking, HE is not always trying to punish me. In fact I believe GOD feels the pain I’m going through, only more intensely. My faith is not based on if GOD will clear up my problems as soon as they appear. GOD wants me to have faith for the long-haul.

HE wants me to see that at the end of every problem, HE is the solution. HIS love never fails and HIS grace for me is sufficient. I believe through my problems that GOD is always with me.

• Are you waiting on something?
• Do you think GOD is withholding a blessing from you because you are not trying hard enough?
• Can you stop trying to control the situation and believe GOD has a solid purpose for your trial and HE will use this time to bring many people to HIM through you?

Patient to a Point

Luke 13: ⁶ He also spoke this parable: “A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came seeking fruit on it and found none. ⁷ Then he said to the keeper of his vineyard, ‘Look, for three years I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree and find none. Cut it down; why does it use up the ground?’ ⁸ But he answered and said to him, ‘Sir, let it alone this year also, until I dig around it and fertilize it. ⁹ And if it bears fruit, well. But if not, after that you can cut it down.’ ”

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“Get rid of that person” were the words I feared as I stumbled to find my way on my first job. I did not know how complicated everything was and my direct boss was definitely of no assistance. His boss, however, was patient with me and decided to give me a little space to “study” my way into the position.

• There were times when I patient people watching over me.
• There were times when I was the one who was messing up but someone gave me grace.
• There were times when I had no direction so I needed an extra dose of forgiveness.

JESUS tells the parable of the barren fig tree. He explains the expectation of the tree is to bear fruit. If the tree does not bear fruit then it should be cut down. HE then takes a turn in the story by saying, the gardener begged to show the fruitless tree some mercy but to a point.

• The HOLY SPIRIT begs for forgiveness daily on my behalf.
• The HOLY SPIRIT has patience with me and shows me mercy daily.
• The HOLY SPIRIT wants me to bear fruit and shows me the way to true life.

GOD wants me to be successful and the HOLY SPIRIT cares for me. BUT GOD has an expectation that at some point I bear fruit. If my world only consists of “me” then I will not bear the fruit GOD expects. HE provides fertile ground and brings many people to me in expectation that I speak about the HOLY ONE, who is the CHRIST.

My silence equals barren fruit and while GOD is patient, HE could someday say “enough.” HE holds death in HIS hands and once HE provides it, there is no return. I am glad GOD has patience with me.

• Do you feel you are messing up?
• Do you feel lost and without direction?
• Can you believe GOD has patience with you and wants you to succeed?
• Will you ask GOD how HE wants you to bear fruit for HIM today in spite of your situation?

Not Your Fault

Luke 13: There were present at that season some who told Him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. ² And Jesus answered and said to them, “Do you suppose that these Galileans were worse sinners than all other Galileans, because they suffered such things? ³ I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish.⁴ Or those eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them, do you think that they were worse sinners than all other men who dwelt in Jerusalem? ⁵ I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish.”

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“Why me?” was my question many times when it came to a painful situation. I mean, why do “bad” things happen to “good” people? I questioned. As I faced, what I thought< was yet another difficult situation, I was in a panic with nowhere to turn. “I wonder if I should turn to sin for a little relief of the pressure” I said to myself.

• Life can be difficult at times.
• Life can dish out some very tough situations.
• Life can be very scary and make me want to do anything for a little relief from the problems.

Some people came to JESUS in a panic over those in charge of the government. They told HIM about the murders that were happening by the decree of the reigning leaders. They sounded like they had nowhere to turn. BUT JESUS replied with some strange words that would make them whole.

• JESUS wants me to face difficult situations with HIS power, not mine.
• JESUS wants me to rely on HIS timing especially when I am panicked.
• JESUS wants me to know HIS way is still better than the world’s way.

Turning to sin only makes my situation worse. When I lose my faith in GOD and I panic, the world sees my defeat and rejoices. BUT GOD picks me up and protects me anyway. HE wants me to succeed and says “I have you in MY hand. No one can pluck you out.”

GOD wants me to look forward instead of trying to figure out which sin caused the consequence I feel I go through at times. HE wants me to stop trying to be the captain of my destiny and allow HIM to guide me through places only HE can take me through. Life can still be difficult but I place my faith in HIM.

• Where are you turning?
• Do you feel like giving up?
• Will you allow your current situation to defeat you or will you allow GOD to defeat your situation so you can praise HIM?

Patch it Up

Luke 12: ⁵⁷ “Yes, and why, even of yourselves, do you not judge what is right?⁵⁸ When you go with your adversary to the magistrate, make every effort along the way to settle with him, lest he drag you to the judge, the judge deliver you to the officer, and the officer throw you into prison. ⁵⁹ I tell you, you shall not depart from there till you have paid the very last mite.”

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“Ooo, you gonna get it!” I said to my sibling in anger. During my rage I wanted someone else to be mad at this person so I figured I would take matters to a higher authority. When I exclaimed my discontent the “judge” punished both of us. “Wait a minute. I didn’t do anything wrong” or so I thought.

• There were times when I wanted to be right and wound up being wrong.
• There were times when I wanted my adversary to be punished and I got punished instead.
• There were times when I poked out my lip and said “but they did it” and was told, “Yes but you know better.”

JESUS cuts through a litigious group who wanted “their” way at every turn. They went off to prove they were right instead of coming to an agreement. The person who dragged another to the judge could possibly wind up in trouble.

• GOD wants me to come to an agreement with those I oppose.
• GOD wants me to not be “right” all the time but be with people in an effort to have peace.
• GOD wants me to have peace with my neighbor without compromising my beliefs and values.

Sometimes by saying “You are right”, gives my adversary room to discover if they are truly right. Joining the person for the purpose of peace brings fruit that I could not imagine. GOD does not want me to violate HIS word so I can still work within my values.

HE simply wants me to review the argument and if it is not violating HIS word, then maybe I should drop the issue and not hold onto being right. Maybe the other person needs to be “right” in order to feel good that day. GOD wants me to drag people off in front of HIM for prayer, but the prayer should be for them to prosper.

• Are you seeking to be right or to be with “that” person?
• Do you want others on your side but maybe you are wrong?
• Will you stop trying to be “right” and seek peace that only comes from GOD today?

Weather Report

Luke 12: ⁵⁴ Then He also said to the multitudes, “Whenever you see a cloud rising out of the west, immediately you say, ‘A shower is coming’; and so it is.⁵⁵ And when you see the south wind blow, you say, ‘There will be hot weather’; and there is. ⁵⁶ Hypocrites! You can discern the face of the sky and of the earth, but how is it you do not discern this time?

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Looking outside I practiced predicting the weather. After a while I could smell rain coming or I could see a storm from miles off. I used the same discernment with people. I could see that group of thugs trying to rob me. Discernment was pretty useful.

• I have used discernment to avoid traffic.
• I have used discernment to avoid getting soaked by rain.
• I have used discernment to avoid robberies, political assassinations and slander.

JESUS talks to the crowd about their ability to read the clouds when it came to weather, but their inability to read the spiritual climate when it came to their Savior. HE saw through their desire to appoint a political leader instead of following the living GOD.

• GOD wants me to focus on HIS imminent return.
• GOD wants me to point people to HIM with urgency.
• GOD wants me to understand that everyday is a gift that should not be wasted.

Focusing incessantly on the news can get me in trouble. I will eventually only see what is told to me as being the truth . BUT GOD wants me to use discernment to see through the garbage and see HIM as my only answer. HE solves problems on a mass scale and on the minute.

HIS love for me stretches beyond my borders as HE tries to reach my family, neighbors and people I have not met yet. HE ants me to discern the time and prepare people for HIS return.

• What are you using your discernment for?
• Are you mostly trying to protect yourself?
• Will you stop trying to predict the future without using GOD as your guide?

Choosing Sides

Luke 12: ⁴⁹ “I came to send fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! ⁵⁰ But I have a baptism to be baptized with, and how distressed I am till it is accomplished! ⁵¹ Do you suppose that I came to give peace on earth? I tell you, not at all, but rather division. ⁵² For from now on five in one house will be divided: three against two, and two against three. ⁵³ Father will be divided against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.”

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“Will you take five minutes to send a voicemail to the employees inspiring them to follow GOD?” was the question posed to me. My career was on the rise and I had a promotion right at my fingertips. From what I saw, many of the leaders did not mention a relationship with GOD. Besides, the person who wanted me to take over their post was being let go. “I’ll pass” I said.

• There have been many times when my silence about GOD chose a side.
• There have been times when I had the opportunity to speak about GOD and did not.
• There have been times that I chose to be with the people who were against GOD so I could be on the “winning” side.

JESUS saw the hearts of the crowd. Some wanted a political leader and some wanted a savior and some wanted to rob, steal and kill. JESUS says some very harsh words about HIS kingdom that is a wake up call to everyone.

• JESUS wants me to side with HIM no matter what the circumstance is.
• JESUS wants me to see HIM as the only solution in spite of what humans can promise.
• JESUS wants me to believe in HIS salvation, especially when things look bleak enough to follow humans.

There is no human plan that can work without GOD’s permission, even evil plans. GOD wants my belief to be totally in HIM. But what happens when someone close to me refuses to believe in JESUS? HE wants me to keep praying for them but stay with HIM. HIS love, unfortunately will divide because of sinful hearts. HE wants me to ask for a clean heart to spread HIS kingdom. That’s all.

• Are you considering denouncing GOD so you can be with the crowd?
• Do you feel pressure to hide your relationship with JESUS?
• Will you be bold for GOD in spite of those around you who may or may not believe in HIM?
• Will you stop looking for evidence of “following GOD” in those around you and simply serve GOD the way HE wants you to?

You Know Better

Luke 12: ⁴¹ Then Peter said to Him, “Lord, do You speak this parable only to us, or to all people?”

⁴² And the Lord said, “Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his master will make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of food in due season? ⁴³ Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. ⁴⁴ Truly, I say to you that he will make him ruler over all that he has. ⁴⁵ But if that servant says in his heart, ‘My master is delaying his coming,’ and begins to beat the male and female servants, and to eat and drink and be drunk, ⁴⁶ the master of that servant will come on a day when he is not looking for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in two and appoint him his portion with the unbelievers. ⁴⁷ And that servant who knew his master’s will, and did not prepare himself or do according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. ⁴⁸ But he who did not know, yet committed things deserving of stripes, shall be beaten with few. For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more.

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“This kid is irritating!” I said to a sibling. The annoyance reached terminal velocity and something had to be done. “Where is our house guest?” was the question posed to us when things got a little too quiet. “In the dirty clothes hamper” I confessed. I assisted in putting the child in there and sitting on the top. “You know better” were the words pointed at me.

• There were times when I was “right” but was wrong.
• There were times when I did stuff that I would not do in the presence of certain people.
• There were times when I knew I was wrong, but I felt justified in my actions.

“What about them” was the gist of Peter’s question concerning the parable pointed at the disciples. JESUS recognized the immaturity in Peter’s words and elaborated on HIS comment. JESUS states that those who truly follow HIM, much more will be required of them. In other words, do what is right.

• GOD wants me to study from HIM and learn HIS ways.
• GOD wants me to obey HIS commands, especially when I do not feel like doing so.
• GOD wants me to be caught in the act of loving someone rather than being caught harming others.

“You know better” is what GOD says to me when I am grown and others are acting immature. I cannot pout over that that person is doing, rather I need to behave according to how GOD wants me to behave. HE cares for me and wants me to show that same care to others. HE wants to catch me in the act of loving someone.

• Have you stopped believing in JESUS’s imminent return?
• Do you think JESUS would be pleased with how you are treating people?
• Can you stop acting immature and seek GOD’s love to fill your heart today?

Ready

Luke 12: ³⁵ “Let your waist be girded and your lamps burning; ³⁶ and you yourselves be like men who wait for their master, when he will return from the wedding, that when he comes and knocks they may open to him immediately. ³⁷ Blessed are those servants whom the master, when he comes, will find watching. Assuredly, I say to you that he will gird himself and have them sit down to eat, and will come and serve them.³⁸ And if he should come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants. ³⁹ But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. ⁴⁰ Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”

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After the meeting I scheduled another meeting as a follow up to make sure I understood everything. I was being left “in charge” for the short period and I wanted to make sure I understood everything that was going on. During the follow-up meeting I was asked “Are you sure you are ready for this?” “Absolutely” I answered.

• Many times I had to prepare.
• Many times I had to sit and wait for the unknown.
• Many times I had to be confident that something may occur at a moment’s notice.

JESUS says some confusing words to HIS disciples. HE spoke in a parable like tone and told them to be ready for the master’s return. Ready for what? I mean what should I be doing?

• GOD says to me “Prepare yourself daily by speaking to ME.”
• GOD says to me “Seek the kingdom everyday and you will be prepared.”
• GOD says to me “Your life is mine so be prepared to be with ME eternally.”

More and more responsibility is what GOD wants to give me. HE understands my limits and will only give me as much as I can handle. If I as ready as a child then I may not be given much responsibility for GOD’s kingdom. But if I am growing in GOD then HE will help me prepare myself and others for what HE has in store. GOD wants me to be ready daily.

• What are you preparing for?
• Are you preparing to be accepted by humans more and more?
• Can you take some time to prepare yourself for GOD’s kingdom by seeking those HE wants you to seek today?

Treasure Map

Luke 12: ²⁹ “And do not seek what you should eat or what you should drink, nor have an anxious mind. ³⁰ For all these things the nations of the world seek after, and your Father knows that you need these things. ³¹ But seek the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you.

³² “Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. ³³ Sell what you have and give alms; provide yourselves money bags which do not grow old, a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches nor moth destroys. ³⁴ For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

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Standing in the outfield I hoped no one would hit a ball to me. Unfortunately they did, over and over. Finally the coach pulled me in and said “Maybe next year.” This was the annual tryouts for the best little league team in the neighborhood and since my friends were doing it, I figured I would too even though I couldn’t hit, catch or run.

• Many times I did things without really wanting to do them.
• Many times I participated, but could not wait for the activity to be over.
• Many times I joined in but really did not enjoy what I was doing.

The FATHER’s heart is expressed by JESUS to the disciples. “HE knows that you need these things” was JESUS’s statement when it came to worrying about what you will eat and drink. JESUS tries to clear up any misconception that I may have regarding the FATHER’s love for me.

• JESUS says to me “The FATHER know your needs.”
• JESUS says to me “Do not fear for it is your FATHER’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”
• JESUS says to me “Seek the kingdom of GOD and the FATHER will meet your needs.”

But how can I seek the kingdom? What does that mean? GOD wants me to change the desires of my heart to focus on giving directly to those who are in need. HE wants my heart to be excited about seeing people grow towards HIM and to look for opportunities to serve my neighbors rather than complaining about them.

GOD wants me to have an abundant life and that abundance means people turning their face towards HIM because of the love HE has shown me. HE guides my heart to serve HIM daily.

• What is your heart set on?
• Do you feel sorry for yourself and your situation?
• Can you change your focus from you and add the desire to have people grow in CHRIST on a daily basis?
• Will you give a little of what you have to someone in need today?

Worry Actions

Luke 12: ²² Then He said to His disciples, “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; nor about the body, what you will put on. ²³ Life is more than food, and the body is more than clothing.²⁴ Consider the ravens, for they neither sow nor reap, which have neither storehouse nor barn; and God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds? ²⁵ And which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature? ²⁶ If you then are not able to do the least, why ^[d]are you anxious for the rest? ²⁷ Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; and yet I say to you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. ²⁸ If then God so clothes the grass, which today is in the field and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will He clothe you, O you of little faith?

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Three o’clock in the morning was not unfamiliar to me. I had woken up many nights facing the pressures of work. Some nights, sleep evaded me altogether. After several years of this, the company decided to get rid of an entire group, including me. No more pressures. Why was I awake in the middle of the night?

• My thoughts can sometimes get the best of me.
• My mind can sometimes overthink situations.
• My security can be shattered when I do not have answers to the questions my mind conjures up.

JESUS tells HIS disciples “Do not worry” as if they had a choice in the matter. But then HE explains “why” they should not worry, which kind of defies logic. HE explains that GOD’s raging river of a plan cannot be stopped. HE says GOD cares about feeding birds, HE can certainly care about feeding humans, who HE created in HIS image.

• GOD cares about my physical attributes.
• GOD cares about my mental wellbeing.
• GOD cares about my comfort, my health, my relationships and my spirit.

GOD does care for me so I must get a grip on the lies my mind can dream up and focus on the truth. HIS plan seems strange, especially when I feel I am in control of my life. HE puts me in situations that actually grow me and HE removes blind spots where fear was leading me.

HIS power is unstoppable and I have to ride HIS raging river to the quiet place HE has for me. I put my trust in GOD. HIS plan is always great for me!

• Are you worried about your future?
• Do you think GOD has forgotten you or is punishing you?
• Will you stop thinking poorly about GOD’s love for you?
• Will you take the opportunity to grow instead of remaining a child and allow GOD’s strength to shine in your life today?

Party Mind

Luke 12: ¹⁶ Then He spoke a parable to them, saying: “The ground of a certain rich man yielded plentifully. ¹⁷ And he thought within himself, saying, ‘What shall I do, since I have no room to store my crops?’ ¹⁸ So he said, ‘I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build greater, and there I will store all my crops and my goods. ¹⁹ And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years; take your ease; eat, drink, and be merry.” ’ ²⁰ But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided?’

²¹ “So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.”

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Thursday was my “Friday” when it cam to this particular job. When I got off work I was finally free from the shackles and I could do what “I” wanted to do. I made a few calls and said “The party starts at 12:34 AM. I’m barbequing! Bring your own bottle!”

• “Living life” once meant what type of vacation could I go on.
• “Living life” once meant how many people could I cram into my party.
• “Living life” once meant spending valuable time showing people “my” stuff so “I” could be admired.

JESUS used the parable of the wealthy man to illustrate the fact that human pride mixed with greed is blinding. Instead of sharing the wealth that obviously came from GOD, the man had plans to keep his wealth to himself and then party. JESUS used this to moment to discuss true treasure.

• GOD wants me to invest some of my time thinking of others rather than only thinking of myself.
• GOD wants me to reduce my “party, vacation” mindset to increase helping my neighbor.
• GOD wants me to see the needs of those around me so I can share my time, wealth and belief in JESUS.

Purpose was lacking in the wealthy man in the parable and sometimes it is lacking in me. When I seek “my” pleasure, I can blame others for not allowing me to have “my” way. Either with lack of money or lack of time, I can grouse over not having the ability to vacation or party or buy something new.

BUT GOD wants me to grow up. HE does not mind me having friends over nor does HE mind me being wealthy. HE does mind when my entire purpose is to only enjoy life, passing up opportunities to help others. Constantly seeking to enjoy life will only bear fruit that is temporary. GOD’s fruit lasts forever. I want GOD’s fruit.

• Are you constantly seeking to buy new stuff?
• Do you think by having more stuff or better vacations, your life would be better?
• Can you change your mindset and see the value of serving people the way GOD wants you to so you can store up treasure in heaven today?

More or Less

Luke 12: ¹³ Then one from the crowd said to Him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.”

¹⁴ But He said to him, “Man, who made Me a judge or an arbitrator over you?” ¹⁵ And He said to them, “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.”

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“Try this on” the salesperson persuadably said.  When I put the garments on, I felt rich. I stared in the mirror and imagined scenarios of popularity and pride. “How much?” I asked. “Oh, about half a month of your salary.” “Hmm, I really want this” I battled. “I’ll take it.”

• Envy can make me want what others have.
• Greed can make me want more, even when I have enough.
• Pride can make me feel less than adequate even when I have plenty.

JESUS addresses possessions directly when a brother was fighting a brother over money.  “Life is more than materialism” JESUS said. But what does this have to do with me?

• GOD says to me, “I will give you abundant life.”
• GOD says to me, “Your life is extremely valuable to ME.”
• GOD says to me, “People are MY treasure, therefore go and bring ME back the treasure that is lost.”

When I believed that I needed JESUS as my Savior, the angels rejoiced. GOD wants me to bring HIM more and more people not just possessions as people think. GOD wants my message to be about HIS SON but sometimes money gets mixed into the message.

GOD wants me to let go of needing to have the latest thing or be styled in the nicest garments. HE wants me to focus people on HIS majesty so they will be taken care of by HIM. HE is what I desire.

• Do you want more than you have?
• Do you feel inadequate because you don’t have enough?
• Will you stop relying on the possessions you have as a basis of “who you are” and focus on what GOD declared “who you are” today?

Speaking With Purpose

Luke 12: ⁸ “Also I say to you, whoever confesses Me before men, him the Son of Man also will confess before the angels of God. ⁹ But he who denies Me before men will be denied before the angels of God.

¹⁰ “And anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man, it will be forgiven him; but to him who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit, it will not be forgiven.

¹¹ “Now when they bring you to the synagogues and magistrates and authorities, do not worry about how or what you should answer, or what you should say. ¹² For the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.”

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Feeling lonely, I listened to how others spoke. I wanted to “fit in” so I began to mimic how others spoke to one another, no matter how different the words were from my values. Soon I was in the in-crowd enjoying life to its fullest. My calendar filled up with events. Funny, the in-crowd did not have much time for GOD.

• Life only has so many seconds for me to spend my time.
• Life only has a finite period for me to speak.
• Life only has so many moments for me to choose between what I want or what GOD wants.

JESUS says something truly exciting. “Whoever confesses ME before men, HIM the SON of Man also will confess before the angels of GOD.” I can only imagine the excitement on HIS face when HE says, “That’s one of MINE!”

• GOD wants me to spend some of my time speaking about JESUS.
• GOD wants me to confess to people that JESUS saves me.
• GOD wants me to tell people about HIS SON, in word and in examples.

There is only a short period of time that I have on this earth and it is up to me to decide what to do with it. I can fill up my time with events, politics, hatred or just being foolish BUT GOD wants me to think about how I use my time. HE wants me to take only a short period out of my day to confess that JESUS is the CHRIST who is my savior.

This is not hard, nor does it prevent me from doing other things. HE simply wants me to enjoy my relationship with HIM by sharing it with others. JESUS is my LORD.

• Are you too busy to speak about JESUS?
• How much time do you spend speaking about things that repel people from GOD?
• Can you take only a short period of time this week to speak about GOD’s love? 

Strength Training

Luke 12: ⁴ “And I say to you, My friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. ⁵ But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear Him who, after He has killed, has power to cast into hell; yes, I say to you, fear Him!

⁶ “Are not five sparrows sold for two copper coins? And not one of them is forgotten before God. ⁷ But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.

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Sitting at my desk, I thought of different ways to exit the building. A bully had threatened to beat me up at 3:15 PM and I could not tell anyone otherwise it would truly cause the fight to happen. I could only think about the bully.

• In the past I have been filled with fear.
• There were moments when I was scared of a particular person.
• Several times I got worried about what humans would do to me so I sought to protect myself.

JESUS tells an innumerable crowd about depending on GOD. HE summed up life in a few short statements. “There will always be another bully that will fight you in all aspects in life, so do not fear them. BUT fear not doing what GOD says to do.

• GOD wants me to fear what HE will do to me for not proclaiming that HIS SON is my savior.
• GOD wants me to fear NOT depending on HIM.
• GOD wants me to fear eternal separation from HIS love.

“Fear HIM who has the power to cast you into hell after death” was JESUS’s statement, but HE wasn’t finished. HE also said BUT GOD cares for you as HE has a plan for every hair on your head. HE cares for birds and other animals, HE can certainly care for you.

GOD’s power is infinite and I should fear not serving HIM daily. HE protects me from bullies of all sorts, especially those who desire to control me. GOD wants my passion and HE will take out those who try to snuff my passion for HIM. HIS protection is invaluable and gives me strength.

• Are you getting worn down by someone?
• Are you trying to control someone?
• Will you stop looking at other people and focus your path to GOD?
• Will you get your strength from GOD instead of allowing humans to put you in a fearful mood?

Said and Done

Luke 12: In the meantime, when an innumerable multitude of people had gathered together, so that they trampled one another, He began to say to His disciples first of all, “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. ² For there is nothing covered that will not be revealed, nor hidden that will not be known. ³ Therefore whatever you have spoken in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have spoken in the ear in inner rooms will be proclaimed on the housetops.

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Having the title of a church leader was quite an honor. I mean now I had to step up my game when it came to being “good.” I dressed in the nicest suits and upon entering the building, I kept my dirty mouth outside. Everyone who saw me thought I was doing great at this “GOD thing.”

• There have been many times when I looked clean on the outside and was dirty on the inside.
• There have been many times when I wanted to look holier than I was acting.
• There have been many times when I desired to be revered more than simply following GOD.

JESUS points to the hypocrisy of the church leaders. They could say scripture, attend church regularly and give a lot but were also great at hiding their sin and making others admit theirs. JESUS tore through their charade and says, everything said and done will be proclaimed.

• GOD says to me “Admit your sins so they will have no hold on you.”
• GOD says to me “Acknowledge MY power to forgive sins so you can be free indeed.”
• GOD says to me “Avoid hiding sins too deeply by admitting them to yourself and to ME.”

Maturity means being truthful with myself. It is the understanding that sin has consequence and I need to admit, I have sinned a lot. From lying, to lust, from hatred to hypocrisy, from greed to gross behavior, I have done it all. BUT GOD did something fantastic.

HE saw that I admitted my downfalls to HIM and gave me the ability to speak freely about my sins. HE is the only one who cleans me up and HE can do the same for anyone who comes to HIM. I live defiled, BUT GOD is my savior.

• What sins are you hiding from yourself?
• Are you scared of admitting even you are a sinner?
• Can you stop thinking lowly of others and start admitting your need for GOD on a daily basis?
• Will you open your mouth and admit sins so others can be loosed from their hidden sins today?

Easy to Believe

Luke 11: ⁴⁵ Then one of the lawyers answered and said to Him, “Teacher, by saying these things You reproach us also.”

⁴⁶ And He said, “Woe to you also, lawyers! For you load men with burdens hard to bear, and you yourselves do not touch the burdens with one of your fingers. ⁴⁷ Woe to you! For you build the tombs of the prophets, and your fathers killed them. ⁴⁸ In fact, you bear witness that you approve the deeds of your fathers; for they indeed killed them, and you build their tombs. ⁴⁹ Therefore the wisdom of God also said, ‘I will send them prophets and apostles, and some of them they will kill and persecute,’ ⁵⁰ that the blood of all the prophets which was shed from the foundation of the world may be required of this generation, ⁵¹ from the blood of Abel to the blood of Zechariah who perished between the altar and the temple. Yes, I say to you, it shall be required of this generation.

⁵² “Woe to you lawyers! For you have taken away the key of knowledge. You did not enter in yourselves, and those who were entering in you hindered.”

⁵³ And as He said these things to them, the scribes and the Pharisees began to assail Him vehemently, and to cross-examine Him about many things, ⁵⁴ lying in wait for Him, and seeking to catch Him in something He might say, that they might accuse Him.

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“All you need to do is believe that JESUS died for your sins and is raised from the dead” someone told me. It was very exciting to hear. I was so excited that I wanted to do more. I read about GOD, sang about HIM and attended gatherings about HIM regularly.

But when it was my turn to tell someone about HIM I gave them my list. “Go to church, give when it hurts, stop sinning and study only the Bible.”

• There were times when I added hurdles to getting to GOD.
• There were times when I added steps to getting to GOD.
• There were times when I had people do things I could not even accomplish.

JESUS blasts the lawyers of the church for holding people to a standard they could not keep. HE saw through their controlling methods that forced people to look at GOD as impossible to please. HE said the blood of the prophets will fall on those who hinder the kingdom.

• GOD wants me to know that a relationship with GOD is “free” in spite of what blind greedy people will say.
• GOD wants me to know HE took care of everything in spite of the messages that make people “try harder.”
• GOD wants me to know that HIS power is permanent in spite of my thoughts that my sin is greater than HIS grace.

Adding burdens to JESUS’s salvation is probably one of the largest crimes GOD will remember. HE wants me to give a simple message that HE loves HIS creation and the worthiness of the relationship comes from HIM. Since HE said “MY grace is sufficient” then is all I need.

• What burdens are you putting on others in order for them to “believe” in GOD?
• Do you think your rigor is a standard for which others should meet?
• Can you stop adding “your” burdens on others and give them a simple message of HIS love today?

Both Sides

Luke 11: ³⁷ And as He spoke, a certain Pharisee asked Him to dine with him. So He went in and sat down to eat. ³⁸ When the Pharisee saw it, he marveled that He had not first washed before dinner.

³⁹ Then the Lord said to him, “Now you Pharisees make the outside of the cup and dish clean, but your inward part is full of greed and wickedness. ⁴⁰ Foolish ones! Did not He who made the outside make the inside also? ⁴¹ But rather give alms of such things as you have; then indeed all things are clean to you.

⁴² “But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass by justice and the love of God. These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone. ⁴³ Woe to you Pharisees! For you love the best seats in the synagogues and greetings in the marketplaces. ⁴⁴ Woe to you, ^[n]scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like graves which are not seen, and the men who walk over them are not aware of them.”

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Mimicking was my form of learning. I mean I had no mentor to navigate me through this new stage of life. I looked at some very successful people and I started to dress like them, go to the same places they went and talk like them, no matter how crass. I wanted success so much that I was willing to lose “me.”

• There were times when I wanted to be on top.
• There were times when I wanted to be revered.
• There were times when my outside looked better than the inside.

JESUS speaks to the Pharisees after being criticized for not washing HIS hands. The criticism was more about “ritual cleanliness” than germ removal. HE saw their judgmental hearts and let them know about the CREATOR.

• GOD made my body and spirit.
• GOD wants me to be brave enough to have character even when those around me do not.
• GOD looks at what is inside of me and is more concerned with growing my spirit than my ego.

Power was my primary pursuit and I did not even know it. I wanted control of my life and, in some respect, control over other folks lives. By being “successful” then I would amass a huge following. BUT GOD wanted something different.

GOD wants me to amass a huge following, but not for me, rather for HIM. HE wants my inside to shine rather than squash. The less powerful I am the more powerful HE is. HE carries me to wonderful places and adorns me with HIS love. HE cleans my inside with HIS SPIRIT.

• Are you trying to make yourself look good in front of a group of humans?
• Do you think your success is more important than GOD’s path?
• Will you ask GOD to clean your inside of bitterness, greed, control, lust, jealousy and hatred today?
• Will you also ask GOD to fill you with love, mercy, kindness, faith and grace?