Your Setback is Included in Deliverance

Your Setback is Included in Deliverance

Exodus 5: ¹⁵ Then the officers of the children of Israel came and cried out to Pharaoh, saying, “Why are you dealing thus with your servants? ¹⁶ There is no straw given to your servants, and they say to us, ‘Make brick!’ And indeed your servants are beaten, but the fault is in your own people.”

 

¹⁷ But he said, “You are idle! Idle! Therefore you say, ‘Let us go and sacrifice to the Lord.’ ¹⁸ Therefore go now and work; for no straw shall be given you, yet you shall deliver the quota of bricks.” ¹⁹ And the officers of the children of Israel saw that they were in trouble after it was said, “You shall not reduce any bricks from your daily quota.”

 

²⁰ Then, as they came out from Pharaoh, they met Moses and Aaron who stood there to meet them. ²¹ And they said to them, “Let the Lord look on you and judge, because you have made us abhorrent in the sight of Pharaoh and in the sight of his servants, to put a sword in their hand to kill us.”

 

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Moses and Aaron performed the miraculous signs that GOD would do to the Egyptians and they believed. Many of them had stopped working because of their belief. This enraged Pharaoh, who quickly gave a wild erratic rule to take away their raw material, knowing it would make life more difficult, so he could beat them and make them feel scared of being disobedient.

 

My Observations:

• When Pharaoh realized that he may be losing power, he exerted force to control the people.
• Pharaoh’s cruel punishment made the children of Israel confront Moses and Aaron.
• The children of Israel felt their situation had gone from bad to worse.

 

At one point the children of Israel were crying out to GOD for deliverance. GOD heard their cries and responded with HIS deliverance plan. When the plan was put into effect, the children of Israel were delighted! Unfortunately, they had more suffering to overcome.

 

Their expectation was that GOD would make this happen swiftly and easily. They did not know that GOD’s plan included the hardening of Pharaoh’s heart. They only saw the result coming. We feel the same way. When we get the smallest sign from GOD, we rejoice, but possibly fall to pieces when there is a setback, or so we think. GOD has taken into consideration any opposition you and I face. HE is still going to be the deliverance!

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about the cruelty of Pharaoh and the response of the children of Israel?
• Have you ever experienced a setback and wondered if GOD has left you or abandoned the plan HE promised you?
• Can you hold on through the setbacks, knowing that GOD has accounted for them in HIS deliverance?

Dream Actually Happening!

Dream Actually Happening!

Genesis 41: ³⁷ So the advice was good in the eyes of Pharaoh and in the eyes of all his servants. ³⁸ And Pharaoh said to his servants, “Can we find such a one as this, a man in whom is the Spirit of God?”

 

³⁹ Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Inasmuch as God has shown you all this, there is no one as discerning and wise as you. ⁴⁰ You shall be over my house, and all my people shall be ruled according to your word; only in regard to the throne will I be greater than you.” ⁴¹ And Pharaoh said to Joseph, “See, I have set you over all the land of Egypt.”

 

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After Joseph laid out a plan to align with the impending crisis that GOD was going to do, Pharaoh consulted his servants. They all agreed with Joseph’s plan. Pharaoh placed Joseph over all of Egypt. Only Pharaoh was above Joseph. No one else.

 

My Observations:

• Joseph’s dream given by GOD was now coming to fruition.
• Joseph was being placed over an unlikely territory by GOD, that could care less about GOD.
• Joseph did not ask to be thrown in a pit or thrown in prison, but as a result, he was placed over the entire providence.

 

Joseph may have been ready for this appointment by Pharaoh. He had been placed over Potiphar’s house and ended up in prison. This wrongful imprisonment may have added caution to Joseph, knowing that fame is fleeting. He may have see the fickle Pharaoh making a huge decision that could one day be take back.

 

Joseph did not celebrate. When Pharaoh said “See, I have set you over all the land of Egypt,”” Joseph did not respond. Joseph may have known that while Pharaoh was giving orders, GOD was the catalyst for the change. GOD is so powerful that even the mention of what HE is about to do , strikes fear in human hearts. GOD’s prophetic dream that HE gave Joseph was coming true.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses what Pharaoh said and did?
• When it’s your time, do you think it will be different than you thought?
• When GOD reveals something to you, do you think it should happen right away or in HIS time?

Unexpected Breakthrough

Unexpected Breakthrough

Genesis 38: ²⁷ Now it came to pass, at the time for giving birth, that behold, twins were in her womb. ²⁸ And so it was, when she was giving birth, that the one put out his hand; and the midwife took a scarlet thread and bound it on his hand, saying, “This one came out first.” ²⁹ Then it happened, as he drew back his hand, that his brother came out unexpectedly; and she said, “How did you break through? This breach be upon you!” Therefore his name was called Perez. ³⁰ Afterward his brother came out who had the scarlet thread on his hand. And his name was called Zerah.

 

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When Tamar was ready to give birth, a midwife got ready. When the first baby stuck out his hand, the midwife tied a scarlet thread around it. But his brother came out unexpectedly.

 

My Observations:

• Tamar’s midwife must have delivered a lot of babies and knew by Tamar’s size, that she was having twins.
• Zerah was expected to come out first, but Perez came out unexpectedly.
• Perez would become the one who would be in the lineage of JESUS.

 

Humans expect things to happen one way, BVUT GOD makes them happen another. The midwife knew a lot about delivering babies, therefore had an expectation. But that expectation was met with the unexpected. Same goes with our lives. We expect GOD to act one way, and HE does something unexpected.

 

Unlike Esau and Jacob, there was no fighting in the womb. Both brothers were mentioned in the lineage of JESUS. Zerah got a shout out, but Perez had the descendants. The King of kings and the LORD of Lords would come through an unexpected breakthrough.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD go into detail to Moses about the birth of Perez and Zerah?
• What are your expectations of GOD?
• Can you believe that GOD is orchestrating an unexpected breakthrough for you?

Special Delivery

Special Delivery

Philippians 4: ¹⁸ Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God. ¹⁹ And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. ²⁰ Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.

 

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Looking in my mailbox, I received a note that was unusual for me. “Pick up your package at the front desk” it said. It did not have a return address so it was from someone in the dorm. It had gifts in it.

 

• I was delighted.
• I felt great receiving something unexpected.
• I did not know I needed what was in the package.

 

Paul received many care packages from the people in Philippi. While he was spreading the Gospel, they supported his needs with many packages. Epaphroditus was the delivery person who spent time keeping the packages safe.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants my heart open to become a supplier of needs.
• GOD sends me to deliver packages from others when I cannot provide them myself.
• GOD has plenty to give and HE wants me to be a distributor.

 

For many years I thought this passage was about getting stuff. I mean, GOD supplying all “Y” needs sounds cool. But it seems like the sweet aroma to GOD was from those who gave or supported people who were spreading the Gospel. Giving is often overlooked in this passage because I usually want more.

 

Having enough is a strange concept. It means I am thankful for the little I have. It also means I can give someone some of what I have and GOD will be pleased. I gladly will become a delivery person when I don’t have much to give but when I  do, I will give to those in need.

 

Challenge

• What aroma does the writer speak of?
• What needs do you have?
• Will you supply someone’s needs today or become a delivery person if you have nothing to give?

It will be alright

 

It will be alright

Romans 7: ²¹ So I find this law at work: Although I want to do good, evil is right there with me. ²² For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; ²³ but I see another law at work in me, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within me. ²⁴ What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? ²⁵ Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord!

 

So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God’s law, but in my sinful nature a slave to the law of sin.

 

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“You have no skills” the recruiter said. “What do you mean?” I asked insulted. “Though you rose to a high level at your last company, you only have the skill for that company.” I found myself without a job, not being able to go back to the last one and seemingly, not being able to go to another. I felt despair.

 

• There have been times when there seemed like I had no answers.
• There have been times when the situation seemed difficult, no matter which way I turned.
• There have been times when I wondered if anyone cared.

 

Paul truly expresses the conflict that is inside of humans by getting personal. He cries out, “What a wretched man I am!” Paul, who used to be Saul, went around having people murdered, thinking he was eradicating those who were not “following” GOD. This horrible past would remain with him forever. How to move forward?

 

• GOD delivers me when the situation seems impossible.
• GOD shows me that HE cares for me no matter what my past looks like.
• GOD saved me from my past through JESUS CHRIST our LORD!

 

“Thanks be to GOD!” are words that brought me out of despair. I mean, when I listened to everyone else, things seemed impossible. But when I listened to GOD, all things were possible because I believe in JESUS. HE picked me up when no one else would. HE delivers me out of situations when it seems impossible. JESUS is my deliverer!

 

• Are you in a situation that seems hopeless?
• Do you place all of your trust in jobs or money and you have neither?
• Will you get hope by believing GOD loves you and JESUS will deliver you if you put your trust in HIM today?

Part of the Plan

 

Part of the Plan

Acts 27: ³⁹ When daylight came, they did not recognize the land, but they saw a bay with a sandy beach, where they decided to run the ship aground if they could. ⁴⁰ Cutting loose the anchors, they left them in the sea and at the same time untied the ropes that held the rudders. Then they hoisted the foresail to the wind and made for the beach. ⁴¹ But the ship struck a sandbar and ran aground. The bow stuck fast and would not move, and the stern was broken to pieces by the pounding of the surf.

 

⁴² The soldiers planned to kill the prisoners to prevent any of them from swimming away and escaping. ⁴³ But the centurion wanted to spare Paul’s life and kept them from carrying out their plan. He ordered those who could swim to jump overboard first and get to land. ⁴⁴ The rest were to get there on planks or on other pieces of the ship. In this way everyone reached land safely

 

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When I got in the camper, I was excited to meet the driver, although he drove a bit slow. We finally crossed the border. The next day I expected to leave on time, but we left two and a half hours late and got lost for another hour and a half. Now, four hours late, we could not do the things we planned, to tell people about CHRIST in this neighborhood. GOD brought people out anyway.

 

• Sometimes my plan includes impatience.
• Sometimes my plan only includes what could go right.
• Sometimes my plan does not include a promise GOD made.

 

Land was so close, everyone could see it. They devised another plan to get aground safely, probably so they could continue using the ship later. That plan was met with problem after problem. The entire trip seemed like a disaster from the time they left. Eventually, everyone made it to land alive, but the ship was lost. GOD’s plan to deliver Paul to Rome was still in action.

 

• GOD wants me to see HIS plan in the middle of things going wrong.
• GOD wants me to accept HIS plan when problem after problem comes.
• GOD wants me to know HIS plan cannot be stopped, even when trials arise.

 

“How could this possibly be for good?” I have asked GOD on many occasion. I mean, it seems pretty bad right now, I would think while the problem was happening. BUT GOD’s plan is never like my plan.

 

HE knew the problem would occur and uses the trial to bring good I cannot always see. Many hearts turn to GOD when trouble occurs, mine included. HE then strengthens me to trust HIM more as HE delivers me from problem after problem. I am glad GOD knows how to grow me.

 

• Are your plans going wrong?
• Did you do or say something that seemed to turn into a disaster?
• Will you place your trust in GOD today so HE can complete the great plan HE has for you?

 

Safe Delivery

 

Safe Delivery

Acts 23: ³¹ So the soldiers, carrying out their orders, took Paul with them during the night and brought him as far as Antipatris. ³² The next day they let the cavalry go on with him, while they returned to the barracks. ³³ When the cavalry arrived in Caesarea, they delivered the letter to the governor and handed Paul over to him. ³⁴ The governor read the letter and asked what province he was from. Learning that he was from Cilicia, ³⁵ he said, “I will hear your case when your accusers get here.” Then he ordered that Paul be kept under guard in Herod’s palace.

 

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Feeling uneasy, I went back to the hotel room. I was parting from the company after more than a decade of work there. A new group came in and decided to clean house. I had faced this before, but this time it was different. I feared my physical safety. I was relieved when I was dropped off at the airport.

 

• There have been times when I felt uneasy.
• There have been times when I feared for my life.
• There have been times when I needed protection and did not know where to turn.

 

Paul was surrounded by over 400 soldiers. When they arrived far enough, the cavalry went all the way to his destination, while the other soldiers returned to the barracks. Paul was protected all the way to the next place.

 

• GOD wants me to seek HIS protection.
• GOD says to me “Do not be afraid.”
• GOD watches over me when I am in the presence of my enemies.

 

There is no situation GOD does not know about. It may be confusing or even scary that I don’t know what is going on. BUT GOD does. HE knows the situation and has factored in someone else’s evil in HIS great plan for me. Any robbery of earthly treasures from me is noted by GOD. HE rewards me with heavenly treasures that cannot rot or rust. I place my trust in GOD.

 

• Are you feeling uneasy about your situation?
• Do you feel unsafe?
• Will you continue to put your trust in GOD, knowing HE is the only one who can deliver you to safety today?

Relieved and Excited

Relieved and Excited

Acts 12: ¹¹ And when Peter had come to himself, he said, “Now I know for certain that the Lord has sent His angel, and has delivered me from the hand of Herod and from all the expectation of the Jewish people.”

¹² So, when he had considered this, he came to the house of Mary, the mother of John whose surname was Mark, where many were gathered together praying. ¹³ And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a girl named Rhoda came to answer. ¹⁴ When she recognized Peter’s voice, because of her gladness she did not open the gate, but ran in and announced that Peter stood before the gate. ¹⁵ But they said to her, “You are beside yourself!” Yet she kept insisting that it was so. So they said, “It is his angel.”

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“At least it’s not raining anymore” I said to the other long-faced campers. Moments later, the van rolled back to the campsite with the injured child all bandaged up. They had been gone for hours. I was relieved that the person was alright. I was more relieved to have our leader back. I mean we couldn’t do anything without him and we were bored!

• When the trial is over, I get relieved.
• When the trial is over, I get excited.
• When the trial is over, I want to tell everyone.

Rhoda answered the door, heard Peter’s voice and became so excited that she forgot to open the door. Everyone at the house was mourning the death or Mary’s son, James brother of John. It seemed like the little excitement of seeing the power of the HOLY SPIRIT was lost. But Peter arrived under impossible odds. The excitement grew.

• GOD wants me to seek HIM in the middle of mourning.
• GOD wants me to seek HIM in the middle of the trial.
• GOD wants me to seek HIM in the middle of the pain.

It is not easy to praise GOD when it seems like all is lost. I mean, just when I start living my life for GOD, it seems like more problems occur. GOD knows the persecution will increase when I give my life to HIM. BUT GOD does provide relief and excitement that keeps me going. Some things cannot be fixed, but I put my trust in GOD to use them for HIS good.

• Are you in mourning?
• Does it seem like all is lost?
• Will you understand that it is alright to be in mourning and GOD loves you even though it may be difficult to hear that right now?

Dear LORD, please heal those hurting right now. Bless them with peace that only comes from you. amen

Downplayed

Downplayed

Acts 7: ³⁵ “This Moses whom they rejected, saying, ‘Who made you a ruler and a judge?’ is the one God sent to be a ruler and a deliverer by the hand of the Angel who appeared to him in the bush. ³⁶ He brought them out, after he had shown wonders and signs in the land of Egypt, and in the Red Sea, and in the wilderness forty years.

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“Who made you the boss?” was the thought I had of a peer telling me what to do. Ignoring the request, I continued doing what I was doing. Later I was called into my boss’s office. In a few days it will be announced that you will be reporting to “that” person. I did not realize “that” person was now in charge.

• I have downplayed someone’s directives over me.
• I have downplayed someone’s title over me.
• I have downplayed someone’s authority over me.

Stephen continues explaining how Moses tried to lead the people when he was younger, but the people rejected him as a leader. Later in life, Moses did in fact, lead the people out of Egypt by GOD’s hand. GOD had appointed Moses.

• GOD wants me to know HE has given me purpose.
• GOD wants me to know HE has given me a message.
• GOD wants me to know HE has given me and many other people the message about HIS SON.

Downplaying a person sent by GOD is like ignoring HIM when HE is talking. Unfortunately, there needs to be discernment because there are some who mention GOD but do not believe in HIM.

GOD desires that I believe in HIM with all my heart and carry HIS message of salvation through HIS SON, JESUS who is the CHRIST. I am grateful HE does not brush me off because I am a sinner, rather HE gives me purpose.

• Do you feel people are not listening to the message GOD has given you?
• Do you feel ignored when you speak about JESUS?
• Will you continue to be firm in your faith in GOD and know HIS word does not return void to HIM?

Looks Different

Looks Different

Acts 7: ⁹ “And the patriarchs, becoming envious, sold Joseph into Egypt. But God was with him ¹⁰ and delivered him out of all his troubles, and gave him favor and wisdom in the presence of Pharaoh, king of Egypt; and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house. ¹¹ Now a famine and great trouble came over all the land of Egypt and Canaan, and our fathers found no sustenance. ¹² But when Jacob heard that there was grain in Egypt, he sent out our fathers first. ¹³ And the second time Joseph was made known to his brothers, and Joseph’s family became known to the Pharaoh. ¹⁴ Then Joseph sent and called his father Jacob and all his relatives to him, seventy-five people. ¹⁵ So Jacob went down to Egypt; and he died, he and our fathers. ¹⁶ And they were carried back to Shechem and laid in the tomb that Abraham bought for a sum of money from the sons of Hamor, the father of Shechem.

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Headed to a party, I got excited over the music playing in the car. I sat in the back seat, dancing a little, looking forward to the festivities to come. A friend, who was driving, said “Something looks different.” We drove and drove. Soon my anticipation dance turned into boredom. We were lost, so we headed back.

• There have been times when I did not get a chance to do some things I probably should not have done in the first place.
• There have been times when I tried to go places I should not have been and things looked different.
• There have been times when I got lost because something was different than the path in my head.

Stephen continues with his discourse. He talked about Joseph’s history of being sold into slavery and delivered from many catastrophes by GOD. Stephen used this example for a purpose, to show how greatness looked different.

• GOD has a plan for me that looks different than the one I would choose.
• GOD has a plan for me that sometimes seems difficult but includes HIS great reward.
• GOD has a plan for me that seems like a field of obstacles, but HE is with me.

Greatness looks different to GOD. I mean when the obstacles are too big for me to remove and GOD removes them, I have to rejoice and tell people about HIM. Then, after a while, I realize HE removes the small obstacles I thought I was handling.

GOD’s power looks different than I could ever imaging. Each trouble I get into, I can see HIM there, suffering with me. The ONE who has infinite power, infinite wisdom and is everywhere, stops, sits and cries with me. HE then does something unexpected. HE raises me up at HIS time. I am grateful GOD’s greatness looks different than what I expect.

• Are you desiring something and everything seems to be going wrong?
• Do you think the situation has gotten the best of you and you have nothing left?
• Will you accept the fact that GOD loves you dearly and is with you, even through the difficult times, so HE can make you great in HIS way?

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?

Delivering Celebration

Luke 1: ⁵⁷ Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son. ⁵⁸ When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her.

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“Look… I can walk!” were my words of joy. I was excited because I could not say the same weeks prior due to being laid up on the couch with an injury. The LORD healed me and I was elated to be able to do something so basic.

• When I get through the storm I feel excited.
• When I get healed I feel relieved.
• When I get delivered I feel free.

Elizabeth had given up on the dream of having children years before the announcement, yet somehow she wasn’t bitter at GOD. HE found favor in her unlike the bitter desert people Moses delivered, who complained about their situation daily. GOD delivered her mercy and she delivered a prophet.

• GOD wants me to have patience when I am going through the storm.
• GOD wants me to praise HIM during the storm.
• GOD wants me to increase my excitement for HIM during the storm.

The longer the trial, the bigger the delivery. No other woman in Elizabeth’s neighborhood was praised like her, because their deliveries were common. GOD takes me through some uncommon trials too. HE uses difficult situations to bring delivery for HIS people.

HIS SON suffered a great deal and was blamed for every one of my sins. GOD delivered me from eternal separation from HIM and for that I am truly grateful.

• Are you going through an extended trial?
• Do you feel like giving up?
• Can you replace any bitterness you have and replace it with praise for GOD today?

Gimmicks

Mark 11: ¹⁵ So they came to Jerusalem. Then Jesus went into the temple and began to drive out those who bought and sold in the temple, and overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who sold doves. ¹⁶ And He would not allow anyone to carry wares through the temple. ¹⁷ Then He taught, saying to them, “Is it not written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations’? But you have made it a ‘den of thieves.’ ”

¹⁸ And the scribes and chief priests heard it and sought how they might destroy Him; for they feared Him, because all the people were astonished at His teaching. ¹⁹ When evening had come, He went out of the city.

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“Should we throw a pizza party?” was my contribution to the suggestions to solve the dwindling church attendance problem. I mean everyone likes pizza. Who wouldn’t come for that?

• There have been times when I tried to bait people into church.
• There have been times when I tried to fool people into church.
• There have been times when I tried to use gimmicks to get people to listen to the word of GOD.

Church had become a place of business rather than a place of worship when JESUS walked into the temple. More activity was centered on what was sold rather than “who” it was sold for. Exploitation and corruption had entered the church because there was serious money to be made.

• GOD said to me “Gather with people to pray to ME.”
• GOD said to me “Gather together so you can pray for one another.”
• GOD said to me “Gather with people so you can bear one another’s burdens and experience joy with one another.”

JESUS is enough and HIS message of salvation is true. Entertaining bored, skeptical people will almost never be quenched. GOD wants me to find those who need HIS SON and tell them about HIM. That is all. HE is not impressed by gimmicks to raise money that only go back into the pockets of those raising the money.

Pure worship is what GOD is looking for and GOD will bless those who allow HIM to deliver droves of people. HE can and will guide people to me, all I need to do is believe.

• Are you trying to trick people to come to church?
• When they get to your church will they hear a message of HIS love or another gimmick?
• Can you stop trying to trick people into believing in JESUS and allow the HOLY SPIRIT to move them in HIS own time and way?

Freed from the Cage

Ezekiel 34: ²⁵ “‘I will make a covenant of peace with them and rid the land of savage beasts so that they may live in the wilderness and sleep in the forests in safety. ²⁶ I will make them and the places surrounding my hill a blessing. I will send down showers in season; there will be showers of blessing. ²⁷ The trees will yield their fruit and the ground will yield its crops; the people will be secure in their land. They will know that I am the Lord, when I break the bars of their yoke and rescue them from the hands of those who enslaved them.

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With shoulders slumped I went into the office defeated. “’Sigh’ I guess I will be here forever” I thought to myself. I kind of enjoyed the job, but did not like the city and I was young, single and still ready to enjoy myself. I felt trapped with no way out.

• There have been times where I felt caged in.
• There have been times where I felt trapped in a snare.
• There have been times where I felt my potential was being wasted away while being enslaved.

As I sat there staring at my cubicle wall a phone call came in with a job opportunity to move. I had not applied nor did I know where this person got my name. I received the information and immediately knew this was the place for me! I was rescued from the dungeon!

• GOD says to me “I will make a covenant of peace with you.”
• GOD says to me “I will make the wilderness and surrounding places safe for you.”
• GOD says to me “I will make place you in a growing tree in a field where there is a bountiful crop and there you will be secure.”

Looking back I can see many times where I thought “This is the end and I am stuck.” I felt like the momentum in my desire had stalled, BUT GOD said something different. HE is the one who says “That’s enough” and rescues me from the tempest. HE makes the waters of my life still and restores my soul. GOD is my shower of blessing!

• Are you feeling lost?
• Have you given up on everything, even GOD?
• Can you allow GOD to strengthen your faith again?

True Fasting

Isaiah 58: ⁴ Your fasting ends in quarreling and strife,
    and in striking each other with wicked fists.
You cannot fast as you do today
    and expect your voice to be heard on high.
⁵ Is this the kind of fast I have chosen,
    only a day for people to humble themselves?
Is it only for bowing one’s head like a reed
    and for lying in sackcloth and ashes?
Is that what you call a fast,
    a day acceptable to the Lord?
⁶ “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen:
to loose the chains of injustice
    and untie the cords of the yoke,
to set the oppressed free
    and break every yoke?
⁷ Is it not to share your food with the hungry
    and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—
when you see the naked, to clothe them,
    and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?
⁸ Then your light will break forth like the dawn,
    and your healing will quickly appear;
then your righteousness will go before you,
    and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard.
⁹ Then you will call, and the Lord will answer;
    you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I.

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“Do you want to join us in a fast?” someone asked me. “I’ll see” was my way of saying “No!” I mean what’s the purpose? I don’t eat or drink and what does that do? I went on my merry way. Weren’t these people just being religious fanatics?

• I used to think fasting was useless.
• I one time thought fasting was ridiculous.
• I used to think fasting was only for the religious freaks who were hypocrites by “my” standard.

When I read about the powerless disciples who came back beat up after fighting a demonic battle, I was curious. JESUS said, “This kind of demon can only be cast out by prayer and fasting.” These seemingly powerless weapons were the most powerful to GOD. I mean prayer does not involve any on my part to solve or resolve the problem, nor does fasting.

When I tried fasting once, it seemed like an eternity. I never realized how much I ate during one day. I got used to it but my fasting eventually ended up pointing to “me” fasting. GOD wanted more.

• GOD wants me to fast with a purpose. 
• HE wants me to miss a meal so someone else can have one. 
• GOD wants me to help the poor and guide my family to GOD. 

HIS fast calls me to point to HIM.

• Are you afraid to fast?
• Is your fast selfish?
• Are you unchanged in your ways after a fast?
• Will you give up your will versus giving up a meal?

Rescue from Above

Isaiah 31: ⁴ This is what the Lord says to me:

“As a lion growls,
    a great lion over its prey—
and though a whole band of shepherds
    is called together against it,
it is not frightened by their shouts
    or disturbed by their clamor—
so the Lord Almighty will come down
    to do battle on Mount Zion and on its heights.
⁵ Like birds hovering overhead,
    the Lord Almighty will shield Jerusalem;
he will shield it and deliver it,
    he will ‘pass over’ it and will rescue it.”

============

“How are we going to make it to the bus?” I thought. I mean there were gang-bangers everywhere this day. One of my classmates, who lived in the neighborhood, whistled a very distinct whistle. Suddenly I noticed the gangsters retreat.

• There were times when it seemed like this is going to be “it.”
• There were times when it seemed like the situation could not get any worse.
• There were times when it seemed like I was going to meet my demise.

Still frightened, I stepped outside with my friends. We walked safely to the bus stop and amazingly got on the bus without harm. Our classmate knew the thugs and with one whistle, told them to retreat. We were watched over.

• GOD says to me “I AM watching over you on a daily basis even when you don’t feel it.”
• GOD says to me “I AM the almighty and I will do battle for you.”
• GOD says to me “I AM rescuing you every day so do not be afraid.”

Looking at the problem too long makes me frightened. I mean as I stare at the calamity, I am no longer looking at GOD. HE is the one who shows me the way. GOD put my classmate there, at the right place, at the right time. GOD watches over me daily and I praise HIM!

• Are you scared?
• Are you frightened?
• Can you put your trust in GOD rather than your knowledge?
• Won’t you stop fighting GOD by spreading your ways and follow HIS?

Rescue is Only a Question Away

Psalm 144: ¹⁰ to the One who gives victory to kings,
    who delivers his servant David.

From the deadly sword ¹¹ deliver me;
    rescue me from the hands of foreigners
whose mouths are full of lies,
    whose right hands are deceitful.

¹² Then our sons in their youth
    will be like well-nurtured plants,
and our daughters will be like pillars
    carved to adorn a palace.
¹³ Our barns will be filled
    with every kind of provision.
Our sheep will increase by thousands,
    by tens of thousands in our fields;
¹⁴     our oxen will draw heavy loads.
There will be no breaching of walls,
    no going into captivity,
    no cry of distress in our streets.
¹⁵ Blessed is the people of whom this is true;
    blessed is the people whose God is the Lord.

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David was fleeing for his life and a few times this was true for me. From being chased by bullies, thugs and gang members, running became a solution of necessity. As an adult I remember running from other bullies in companies, creditors and collection agencies. Fear filled my bones, BUT GOD was always there.

• GOD tells me “Stand still and watch the salvation of the LORD.”
• GOD says to me “I AM the only path to deliverance.”
• GOD whispers to me “I AM the gate; no one gets into the kingdom but by ME.”

The LORD is truly my shepherd, I shall not want. HE gives me peace and restores me even when I don’t deserve it. I am excited that I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever!

• Can you place your full trust in GOD today?
• Will you stand still and watch the deliverance of the LORD?
• Can you be honest with GOD and let HIM know your needs without stating them in anger?
• Will you let GOD be your LORD today?

Getting out of the Trap

Psalm 129: ¹ “They have greatly oppressed me from my youth,”
    let Israel say;
² “they have greatly oppressed me from my youth,
    but they have not gained the victory over me.
³ Plowmen have plowed my back
    and made their furrows long.
⁴ But the Lord is righteous;
    he has cut me free from the cords of the wicked.”

============

“Will I ever get out of here?” I sat and thought. Bullies on the left and poverty on the right, was a thought I had in eighth grade. “Will I ever get out of here?” I sat and thought. This time, difficult teachers and no help or direction prompted my thinking in high school. “Will I ever get out of here?” I sat and thought. This time I had a very boring job in a town I despised and I had no contacts.

• There are some places in life that seemed like I would remain forever.
• There are some places in life that seemed like I would never leave.
• There are some places in life that seemed as if I was stuck with no way out.

Looking forward during those difficult times, the road seemed endless. I mean who can do four whole years of high school, my young mind could not conceive. Looking back at that trial is only laughable compared to the trials of an adult. GOD had a plan for me.

• GOD is always there for me when I question the road HE has me on.
• GOD is always there for me when the road seems bleak and I have nothing inside of “me” to resolve the current situation.
• GOD is always there for me when things seem impossible to me.

When I look at my power and assess my skills I quickly get nervous. I compare what I know with what’s ahead of me and immediately feel like giving up, BUT GOD has shown to be ever faithful. HE says “When you are weakest, MY strength is made perfect.” GOD is my salvation, whom shall I fear?

• Are you nervous?
• Are you feeling frightened by your surroundings?
• Can you be still for a moment today and listen to GOD?
• Will you accept the peace HE has for you this day?

Stop Dodging

Psalm 109: ³⁰ With my mouth I will greatly extol the Lord;
    in the great throng of worshipers I will praise him.
³¹ For he stands at the right hand of the needy,
    to save their lives from those who would condemn them.

============

After a while my eyes would glance away unconsciously. I knew the route that would have the least amount of contact and still get me to my destination on time. Still, on this route there seemed to be more this day. It was inevitable. One got in front of me and there was no way around!

“Could you spare some change?” the seemingly homeless person asked me. “They probably will spend it on booze or drugs” I justified in my mind. And besides I read an article where some guy made more money begging than I did working hard every day! “No” I answered with coins jingling in my pocket.

• Sometimes I label the needy so I can avoid the needy.
• Sometimes I justify the act of not helping the needy.
• Sometimes I look at the needy as “them” and not us.

Terms like “you can’t save everyone” and “God helps those who help themselves” are not written anywhere in the Bible, yet they were guiding principles to my actions towards the homeless and destitute. BUT GOD wanted me to think about people differently.

• GOD wants me to empathize with the poor not just have pity on them.
• GOD wants me to have the mentality that all can be reached and it is up to me to be available.
• GOD wants me to seek those who are in need for HE said “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”

Instead of dodging the homeless, GOD wanted me to be prepared to give to those HE put in my path, “for HE stands at the right hand of the needy to save their lives from those who would condemn them.”

• Are you in need and think GOD has forgotten you?
• Are you trying to avoid going out and helping the needy?
• If you are in need can you open your hand and let GOD stand with you?
• If you haven’t helped the needy in a while can you go out and have direct contact with them instead of anonymously giving?

Deserving Deliverance

Psalm 79: ⁹ Help us, God our Savior,
    for the glory of your name;
deliver us and forgive our sins
    for your name’s sake.

============

Sitting in my final, I asked GOD to help me recall some of the information I crammed into my head the night before. I didn’t understand the concepts and the professor told me a week before that unless I wrote an outstanding final, I would fail. After my prayer I took the final and got a C on the test and a failing grade overall.

Praying that GOD undo damage I have caused is rather futile, especially if it’s for my personal gain. I expected that GOD clean up the damage while I skip merrily through the situation. It did not happen. GOD allowed me to face the consequences of my decision and quite honestly it was the best thing that happened to me. My study habits got infinitely better afterwards.

• GOD delivers me not because of me, but in spite of me.
• GOD delivers me in the middle of my sins, not after I clean myself up.
• GOD delivers me because of HIS name and HIS sake, not because I demand it or deserve it.

When I look at my life I see points where GOD intervened in the middle of my sins. HE showed tremendous restraint and did not pour out wrath rather HE dished out a heaping helping of HIS grace. I can also see times where HE allowed the consequences of my sins to hit me in the face.

This prayer is appropriate. Israel was in captivity for turning away from GOD for the thousandth time. The writer knew there was nothing that could be said to deserve deliverance. All they could write was “Forgive our sins for YOUR name’s sake.” GOD’s name is pure and so is HIS love for me. I praise HIM because I do not deserve the blessings HE has bestowed on me.

• Do you feel you deserve deliverance?
• Are you busy telling GOD how good you have been?
• Can you stop trying to steer GOD and praise HIM?
• Will you ask HIM to deliver you on HIS terms?