Broken Repaired

Broken Repaired

1 John 4: ¹⁹ We love because God first loved us. ²⁰ If we say we love God, but hate others, we are liars. For we cannot love God, whom we have not seen, if we do not love others, whom we have seen. ²¹ The command that Christ has given us is this: whoever loves God must love others also.

 

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Sitting on the couch of my apartment, it hit me that my life was not going so well. With creditors calling, and my car totaled, I wanted to hear a friendly set of words but they were not available.

 

“Why don’t you go to church with us?” someone asked. I went and heard words of love I hadn’t heard in a while. I felt great. Years of success later, a guy would come by my desk to steal ideas. “I hate that guy” I said to myself.

 

• I had forgotten what GOD did for me when I was broken.
• In my lowest moments, I needed GOD and HE was faithful to me.
• I was not faithful to GOD because I harbored hatred in my heart.

 

John addressed hatred. He knew the believers in CHRIST were persecuted by the very group that was supposed to be following GOD. He reminded everyone, that while we were still sinners CHRIST died for us. He then explained that you cannot love GOD and hate people.

 

My Observations:

• GOD is love and expects me to act like HIM.
• GOD loved me first and wants me to do the same.
• GOD wants me to love those who are spiritually blind, selfish, and mean.

 

Without GOD, love cannot exist. I mean, GOD is the one who defined what love is and HE created us in HIS image to love one another. Unfortunately sin entered the world and is a part of us. Humans conjure up a new definition of love, that could include selfish desires that are not aligned to GOD’s.

 

JESUS gave us the example to follow. HE, being GOD, did not think being a servant to those who hated HIM was a problem. Even before HIS death, he healed a guards ear, who came to arrest HIM. JESUS commands something that is a choice. “love those who hate you.” I am glad GOD loved me first, so I choose to follow HIS example, HIS way.

 

Challenge

• What lie does the writer point out?
• Has GOD ever brought you out of something?
• Will you consider examining your heart to see if you harbor any hatred towards someone and ask GOD to cleanse you of this and replace it with HIS love for others today?

Reputation Faith

Reputation Faith

Hebrews 11: ³⁰ It was faith that made the walls of Jericho fall down after the Israelites had marched around them for seven days. ³¹ It was faith that kept the prostitute Rahab from being killed with those who disobeyed God, for she gave the Israelite spies a friendly welcome.

 

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“Let me see your paper” was said to me in a threatening tone. He knew my scrawny stature was no match for his brawn. I slid my paper closer to the edge and kept filling out the test. I was glad that was over. But then I heard him tell someone “You should sit by him next time.”

 

• I thought I was going to get beat up if I didn’t show my test.
• I was scared of the thugs reputation of beating people up.
• I was building a reputation of being a “scaredy cat” and a “professor” who could easily be pushed over and copied from.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, gave another example of faith. This time it was the faith of “reputation.” The Israelites had crossed the Red Sea and the Egyptians were drowned in it while chasing them. All of the surrounding nations heard about this miracle and feared the Israelites. But Rahab feared their GOD.

 

My Observations:

• I can walk all my life in fear or I can place my hope in GOD.
• I can focus on “my” reputation, or believe that GOD will deliver me when HE says HE would.
• I can do the wrong thing out of fear or believe that GOD will protect me even when the odds are against me.

 

GOD’s reputation is at stake, not mine. I mean, when HE says HE will do something, it is HIS reputation that is at stake. I do not have to defend anything GOD said HE would do. HE is the most powerful, most high and lives everywhere. HE sees all, knows all and is above all.

 

I can place my faith in HIS reputation when mine falters. If all around me label me as weak, GOD says “I AM strong and you are in MY family.” I gladly place my faith in GOD’s reputation for delivering me every time.

 

Challenge

• What reputations are mentioned by the writer?
• Have you ever felt mislabeled by other people?
• Will you put your trust in the LORD today who brings you through all situations for HIS purpose?

Barriers Removed

Barriers Removed

Hebrews 11: ²⁹ It was faith that made the Israelites able to cross the Red Sea as if on dry land; when the Egyptians tried to do it, the water swallowed them up.

 

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“But I don’t know anything about the business side” was my nervous response when offered a position I was unfamiliar. My entire career had been spent in technology and I was now being asked to move into operating the business from a nontechnical view. “Don’t worry about it” was the response. They cleared all barriers to getting the position.

 

• I felt I did not have the skills to do the position.
• I wondered why I was chosen for the position.
• I nervously stepped into the position and made it safely through.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, gives a strange example of faith. He mentions the Israelites “ability” to cross the Red Sea as if on dry land, while the Egyptians could not. Many of the Israelites were nervous and later they complained about Moses and ultimately, GOD. Yet GOD protected them.

 

My Observations:

• GOD protects me in spite of my doubt, fears and worries.
• GOD knew I would mess up and HE protects me anyway.
• GOD sees all hearts and protects me from those who try to stop me from serving HIM.

 

Serving GOD pleases HIM, but causes the enemy to get upset. I mean, when I put my mind and heart into action for doing something meaningful for CHRIST, GOD gets excited. Unfortunately, it causes me to rile up Satan who, in turn, tries to place obstacles in my way. BUT GOD sees the obstacles and removes them.

 

It is not because I am faithful and sinless, it’s because HE is faithful and sinless. JESUS faced every temptation I could ever face and more. HE did not sin when tempted and was murdered by HIS own creation. HE was raised from the dead and provides the HOLY SPIRIT to live in those who believe in HIM. HE did it all and did not rely on my faulty faithfulness. I am glad GOD is faithful to me.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer mention faith when it came to the unfaithful Israelites?
• Have you ever sinned and were nervous about receiving punishment from GOD?
• Are you doubting HIS love for you because of your current situation?
• Will you believe in HIS power over your situation and believe HE is faithful to you even though you cannot possibly be faithful to HIM because we are all sinners?

 

Prayer

Dear LORD, please protect this reader from his or her thinking. Please guide us from worry, fear and doubt. Show us YOUR faithfulness, especially when we are unfaithful. Thank YOU! amen

Seeking Reliability

Seeking Reliability

2 Timothy 2: As for you, my son, be strong through the grace that is ours in union with Christ Jesus. ² Take the teachings that you heard me proclaim in the presence of many witnesses, and entrust them to reliable people, who will be able to teach others also.

 

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After partying all night, I went to bed. I woke up hours later in a haste that I had forgotten something. “O no!” I said to myself. I had forgotten to open the dorm office and I was the only one with the key. Many people were waiting on various services. I rushed down and opened the office, but was fired because I had been late before.

 

• I was not reliable.
• I was not dependable.
• I was not trustworthy.

 

Paul appeals to Timothy to seek “reliable” teachers who can be entrusted with spreading the Gospel. This may have been done to prevent someone who would twist the message into profiteering or some other manipulation. The highest importance was to remain strong in the grace of our LORD and Savior, JESUS.

 

My Observations

• Reliability is something GOD wants me to have so I can be entrusted with more precious things.
• Dependability is something GOD wants me to have so HE can send people to me and know I will rely on HIS message versus my hidden agenda.
• Trustworthy is something GOD wants me to be so I can be sent to the right place at the right time or be ready to speak HIS message in HIS way.

 

Faith has multiple components, but one is being dependable. I mean, as a business owner or employee, if I show up randomly, then I become unreliable. Same with GOD’s message. If I am not reliable to speak on HIS behalf, HE will not entrust HIS precious souls to me. In other words, HE will not send people who need to hear about GOD to someone who will not speak on HIS behalf.

 

GOD wants reliability. HE knows that times will get difficult and still wants me to be reliable. Faith is also dependability. GOD is faithful to cleanse me of all unrighteousness when I confess the to HIM. I am glad I can depend on HIM and hope HE can depend on me.

 

Challenge

• What is so important that the writer seeks reliable people to teach?
• Have you ever ran into a situation where you needed a reliable source but could not find it?
• Will you be the reliable source GOD needs so HE can entrust HIS plan and message to you today?

Full Patience

Full Patience

1 Timothy 1: ¹⁴ And our Lord poured out his abundant grace on me and gave me the faith and love which are ours in union with Christ Jesus. ¹⁵ This is a true saying, to be completely accepted and believed: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. I am the worst of them, ¹⁶ but God was merciful to me in order that Christ Jesus might show his full patience in dealing with me, the worst of sinners, as an example for all those who would later believe in him and receive eternal life. ¹⁷ To the eternal King, immortal and invisible, the only God—to him be honor and glory forever and ever! Amen.

 

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Stopped at a light, I decided to turn right on red. As I proceeded to turn I felt the car stop. The driving instructor had a separate braking system to keep me from danger. When I looked up, a car, that had the green light, passed through the intersection. He patiently said “Look both ways when turning right on red.”

 

• I was about to make a huge mistake.
• I needed correction and patience at the same time.
• I had to accept that I did something wrong and patiently add this lesson to my skill.

 

Paul recognizes where his talents came from. He regretted his past life, but moved on to the life CHRIST gave him. He spoke about the LORD’s abundant grace, faith and love that is poured out even when we don’t have it for ourselves.

 

My Observations

• Admitting I was and am a sinner enables me to be cleansed by JESUS, who is faithful and just.
• Believing that I need CHRIST to forgive me and guide me daily, helps me not waste time on those who make me feel less than my calling.
• Confessing my flaws to GOD the FATHER, is a privilege I have gained by having a relationship with JESUS.

 

Praise GOD! That had to be said. I mean, HE saw me, pitiful, sinning, scheming, weak and lonely; yet HE said “I want you.” “Why me?” I ask. Then it hit me, it’s because GOD wanted me.

 

HE is so full of grace, that HE can’t seem to contain  it. HE pours it out on me and the result is faith and love because of my union with CHRIST. I am so glad HE has full patience and grace for me and love for me and you!

 

Challenge

• Can you feel how fired up the writer is?
• Have you ever felt like a failure because of the past?
• Are you walking cautiously and not expressing GOD’s faith, nor HIS love?
• Will you confess your doubt and believe that GOD has patience and called you to the most honorable task of speaking about JESUS, the eternal KING, today?

 

Praise

To the eternal KING, immortal and invisible, the only GOD --- to HIM be honor and glory forever and ever! Amen!

Understanding and Endurance

 

Understanding and Endurance

2 Thessalonians 3: ³ But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and keep you safe from the Evil One. ⁴ And the Lord gives us confidence in you, and we are sure that you are doing and will continue to do what we tell you.

 

⁵ May the Lord lead you into a greater understanding of God's love and the endurance that is given by Christ.

 

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“Oh no not this exercise” was my first thought. Being on the track team, we had to warm up with the basketball team by running the length of the basketball court and touching the floor on each side. This meant practice was going to be longer that day.

 

• I wondered why we had to go through all of those exercises.
• I could barely finish on the first day, but did better the next time.
• I did not have much endurance in the beginning, but over time it grew.

 

Paul, Silas and Timothy provide some encouraging words for those who felt like giving up. People may have questioned if what they were doing was right in the eyes of the LORD. Attack after attack from the Evil One may have made them weary. BUT GOD kept them safe and provided strength.

 

My Observations

• Life’s trials are difficult, BUT GOD is faithful to me and gives me strength.
• Attacks from the Evil One may happen, BUT GOD is faithful to keep me safe from those attacks.
• Confusion, disappointments and pain may come, BUT GOD is faithful to give me greater understanding of HIS love and endurance to keep going.

 

Let me be honest, I do not like trials. I mean, it seems like peace comes in tiny waves, while trials come in larger torrents!  I may even cry out “GOD where are YOU!?” and seem to get no answer. BUT HE is there.

 

HE opens my eyes to the many times HE has pulled me out of troubled waters and placed me besides still waters. HE restores my soul. HE reminds me that HIS love endures forever! I am glad GOD is faithful to keep strengthening me and keeping me safe from the attacks of the Evil One.

 

Challenge

• What strength do the writers speak of?
• Have you ever felt weak or felt like giving up?
• Will you seek more understanding of GOD’s love for you so you can be strengthened to endure life’s challenges today?

 

Prayer

Dear LORD, please strengthen this reader and keep him or her safe from the attacks of the Evil One. Please lead us into a greater understanding of YOUR love and give us similar endurance CHRIST had as HE approached death on the cross to provide us life everlasting through HIS resurrection. amen

From Worry to Wonder

 

From Worry to Wonder

1 Thessalonians 5: ²³ May the God who gives us peace make you holy in every way and keep your whole being—spirit, soul, and body—free from every fault at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. ²⁴ He who calls you will do it, because he is faithful.

²⁵ Pray also for us, friends.

²⁶ Greet all the believers with the kiss of peace.

²⁷ I urge you by the authority of the Lord to read this letter to all the believers.

²⁸ The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

 

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As I sat in the window, I noticed a distinction between the ray of sunlight and the cool of the shade. All of my cares and worries seem to melt away as I just sat there. Then I pondered what it would be like to have no worries, pain or sickness. It felt great just thinking of it.

 

• I felt freed just thinking about a time without worry.
• I felt lighter just thinking about a time when pain does not exist.
• I felt at peace just thinking about a time without ailments or sickness.

 

Paul closes the letter with input from Silas and Timothy. They closed this with a brief prayer all readers that GOD gives peace, make us holy and keep our whole being, spirit, soul and body, from every fault. They knew that one day the LORD JESUS would return.

 

My Observations

• GOD is willing to grant me peace when I seek HIM.
• GOD is willing to make me holy even when I have a mountain of sins.
• GOD is willing to keep my whole being – spirit, soul and body -- free from every fault.

 

Peace is possible in times of trouble. I mean, when I look at the waves and currents of this trial and that one, I can feel lost, worried and alone. BUT GOD has a remedy. JESUS.

 

One day JESUS will return with all power and authority. HE was placed above everything that causes pain, worry and sickness. HE will see only HIS grace HE has for me and for those who seek HIS mercy. HE is the ultimate forgiver and gives peace in the middle of the storm. I gladly accept HIS peace and wonder how great it will be when HE returns.

 

Challenge

• What is the writer trying to convey through this mini prayer?
• Have you ever gotten overwhelmed with the worries of life?
• Will you receive GOD’s peace by letting go of everything you are trying to control and allowing HIM to make you holy and keep your whole being so you will be faultless at the coming of the LORD JESUS CHRIST?

So Much More

So Much More

Ephesians 3: ²⁰ To him who by means of his power working in us is able to do so much more than we can ever ask for, or even think of: ²¹ to God be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus for all time, forever and ever! Amen.

 

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When I bought the car, I was excited. “I no longer have to take the bus” was my primary reason for being elated. When I had an accident which totaled the car, I realized I had no transportation to get to and from work. I also could not easily bring groceries home or not get wet as I walked to work in the rain.

 

• I could only see some things from a narrow perspective.
• I overlooked the usefulness of some things until those things were gone.
• I realized some things had more value than I originally understood.

 

Paul concludes his prayer by pointing to GOD. He explains that GOD is able to do so much more than we could ever ask for or imagine. He gives praise to GOD through CHRIST JESUS for all time!

 

My Observations

• GOD does not mind when I ask HIM for small things because HE is so much more.
• GOD knows that I cannot understand HIS power, but HE works in me anyway.
• GOD appreciates when I give HIM praise and when I recognize HE is bigger than my current situation.

 

Knowing that GOD is so much more, brings me hope. I mean, when I cannot see a way out and I am circled by difficulties, GOD makes a way for me and clears my path. HE has done this consistently, over and over and over again. Unfortunately I still doubt HIM.

 

HE forgives my doubt and works in me anyway. HE is bigger than my fears or worries. HE is the one who holds everything and will never forget me. I am grateful HE is larger than my imagination and I praise HIS greatness!

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer mentions requests in this part of the prayer?
• Have you ever limited GOD or doubted HIS love for you because of your circumstances?
• Will you see beyond your requests or circumstances and know GOD is so much more than you can ever imagine?

From Praise to Hope

 From Praise to Hope

Romans 15: ⁷ Accept one another, then, for the glory of God, as Christ has accepted you. ⁸ For I tell you that Christ's life of service was on behalf of the Jews, to show that God is faithful, to make his promises to their ancestors come true, ⁹ and to enable even the Gentiles to praise God for his mercy. As the scripture says,

 

“And so I will praise you among the Gentiles;
    I will sing praises to you.”
¹⁰ Again it says,
“Rejoice, Gentiles, with God's people!”
¹¹ And again,
“Praise the Lord, all Gentiles;
    praise him, all peoples!”
¹² And again, Isaiah says,
“A descendant of Jesse will appear;
    he will come to rule the Gentiles,
    and they will put their hope in him.”

 

¹³ May God, the source of hope, fill you with all joy and peace by means of your faith in him, so that your hope will continue to grow by the power of the Holy Spirit.

 

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“Let’s go on a bike hike” someone older said to us. Having only been out of the neighborhood a few times, I was excited to go on this adventure. We rode further than I had ever ridden in my life. We crossed the railroad tracks and the neighborhood looked different.

 

When we arrived at a park, the people called us by names of racial hatred. We were chased. I didn’t know much about prayer, but I started saying “Our FATHER…”

 

• There have been times when I just wanted to live together.
• There have been times when I just wanted to enjoy life together.
• There have been times when I just wanted to have peace, but could not find it because I was not accepted.

 

Paul’s plea was primarily to the Jews, but was universal in nature. He expressed something that is hard for humans, namely “accept one another.” But how? He then explains why do it. “For the glory of GOD, as CHRIST has accepted you.”

 

• GOD wants to show me that HE is faithful to make HIS promises come true.
• GOD wants to enable me to praise HIM for HIS mercy.
• GOD wants to be the source of my hope.

 

Praising GOD for HIS mercy is only the beginning of the relationship. I mean, when I confess I am in need of a Savior, JESUS accepts me, because HIS resurrection to life gave HIM all authority. Now that HE has accepted me, HE wants me to accept others, even those who do not look or act like me.

 

GOD then wants me to grow beyond confession. HE wants to fill me with joy and peace. But there is one caveat. I must place my faith in HIM. But what if my faith is small and wavering? HE has that covered by placing the HOLY SPIRIT in me. Now my “hope” will continue to grow and I can accept others as CHRIST accepted me.

• Is your hope small because you feel oppressed?
• Do you think there is no way out because of another group?
• Will you add “acceptance” to your heart and believe in JESUS so HE will provide the HOLY SPIRIT, who will grow you with HIS power today?

Shown to be Right

 

Shown to be Right

Romans 3: Do the Jews then have any advantage over the Gentiles? Or is there any value in being circumcised? ² Much, indeed, in every way! In the first place, God trusted his message to the Jews. ³ But what if some of them were not faithful? Does this mean that God will not be faithful? ⁴ Certainly not! God must be true, even though all human beings are liars. As the scripture says,

 

“You must be shown to be right when you speak;
    you must win your case when you are being tried.”

 

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“Who broke this?” I was asked. “I don’t know” was my lying answer, knowing full well I broke it. “I promise I will never do that again” was my lying statement when I got caught speeding. “I believe GOD can do anything” was my lying statement when doubt filled me up so much that I took matters in my own hands.

 

• Many times I have lied out of convenience.
• Many times I have lied to protect myself.
• Many times I have lied for no reason at all.

 

Paul continues the explanation of GOD’s relationship with humanity. He speaks about GOD choosing the Jews to reveal HIS message to the world. Unfortunately, this all important message was not handled with the faith it deserved. Some were not faithful to the message and chose to lie, to keep a following versus pointing their lives to JESUS.

 

• GOD wants me to grow up enough to speak the truth about JESUS.
• GOD wants me to recognize that I need HIM to open my eyes to my lies.
• GOD wants me to confess my lies because they stain any righteous acts I may do.

 

One prophet, Isaiah, was called to be a speaker for GOD. He confessed to GOD that he was a liar. GOD healed him of lying by giving him courage to speak the truth about JESUS. He then wrote this about JESUS, “But HE was wounded for our transgressions, HE was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon HIM, And by HIS stripes we are healed.”

 

GOD can take a liar like me, forgive those lies and fill me with confidence in HIM that HE will be faithful because HE cannot and will not ever lie to me. When HE says “You are forgiven for all your sins because you believe in MY SON” HE means it. I believe I am forgiven for my lies.

 

• Are you a liar, even to yourself?
• Do you hide things to protect your image?
• Will you change your speech and be “shown to be right” so others can hear what JESUS has done by HIS forgiveness today?

Willing and Able

Matthew 9: ²⁷ As Jesus went on from there, two blind men followed him, calling out, “Have mercy on us, Son of David!”

²⁸ When he had gone indoors, the blind men came to him, and he asked them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?”

“Yes, Lord,” they replied.

²⁹ Then he touched their eyes and said, “According to your faith let it be done to you”; ³⁰ and their sight was restored. Jesus warned them sternly, “See that no one knows about this.” ³¹ But they went out and spread the news about him all over that region.

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“Fall backwards” were the words of a neighbor that I trusted. We had a great idea that we would roll like a circus act, instead I hit my head squarely on the concrete! Years later, at a leadership retreat, those words appeared again. “Fall backwards!” “Hmm… should I trust my team?” ran across my mind.

• Sometimes I treat GOD according to my measure of trust in HIM.
• Sometimes I treat GOD like HE has no powers at all.
• Sometimes I treat GOD as a human with limited abilities.

Life has dealt out a number of blows that could be jarring to anyone’s faith. After feeling the concrete pain of challenges should I really trust GOD? Yes!

• GOD wants me to seek HIM with all my heart and all my soul.
• GOD wants me to ask HIM for the impossible and believe HE can and will deliver me.
• GOD wants me to believe and receive according to the measure of my faith in HIM.

Dream small, get small. If I only believe that GOD is the GOD of finding lost keys and growing my career, then HE will probably only deliver that. BUT GOD wants me to dream bigger. HE wants me to believe HE can do anything according to HIS will.

HE wants me to have so many heavenly riches, all I need to do is ask. GOD is willing and able!

• Do you think GOD is small?
• When is the last time you asked HIM to handle something large?
• Will you stop trying to be GOD and let HIM perform miracles in your life?

Am I Above GOD?

Psalm 47: ⁵ God has ascended amid shouts of joy,
    the Lord amid the sounding of trumpets.
⁶ Sing praises to God, sing praises;
    sing praises to our King, sing praises.
⁷ For God is the King of all the earth;
    sing to him a psalm of praise.

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“GOD can’t possibly forgive me this time” was the thought that crossed my mind as I committed for the thousandth time. I mean preachers and church people said “sin is your problem, once you stop sinning you will be on easy street.” Soon I began to believe I could be “good” enough to get my way.

• My thinking is flawed if I believe I am in control of my situations.
• My thinking is flawed if I believe I am in control of my circumstances.
• My thinking is flawed if I believe I am in control of my status.

When things went wrong in my life, I would think to myself “what sin brought this on?” I mean it has to be a sin that I have committed to bring “this” on I would think to myself. But there is a flaw in that thinking, I’m still in control and I think GOD isn’t. BUT HE IS.

• GOD is above any situation, circumstance or status I can ever be in or hold.
• GOD is above any human, economic report or war that I could ever worry about.
• GOD is above any thought, feeling or action I could ever pursue.

GOD is.

My problem is that sometimes I don’t give GOD the credit for being as graceful as HE is. I think because my car just got beat up or someone robbed me that GOD no longer loves me or has forsaken me, which is FAR from the truth. GOD is amazing! HIS grace is amazing! HIS love, endless! HE has patience with me I wish I could have with other humans. HIS grace truly is sufficient!

• Are you having a difficult time praising GOD?
• Do you think HE is mad at you for something?
• Can you stop thinking GOD is somewhere else and believe HE loves you dearly, period?
• Will you lower yourself beneath GOD and let HIM have grace, HIS way?

Remain Confident

Psalm 27: ¹³ I remain confident of this:
    I will see the goodness of the Lord
    in the land of the living.
¹⁴ Wait for the Lord;
    be strong and take heart
    and wait for the Lord.

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Clinging to my mother’s hand, I was frightened to go into the unknown. I had never spent time away from her and this thing called kindergarten was foreign to me. I was scared, but I let go and went in. This same feeling appeared several times in my life, each time I was frightened of the unknown, each time I let go and dove in.

• The unknown is frightening to me.
• The unknown is very scary to me.
• The unknown is a place that my mind conjures up fears.

Jumping into the unknown is frightening for the heartless. I should know, I have been very scared many times. BUT GOD says something different.

• GOD says to me “When you walk by faith, remember to wait on ME.”
• GOD says to me “When you are frightened, be strong and take heart.”
• GOD says to me “I will bring goodness while you are alive and after.”

GOD tells me to remain confident no matter how frightened others around me may be. HE leads me besides still waters and restores my soul.

• Are you frightened to walk into the unknown?
• Are you afraid of making a mistake?
• Can you ask GOD to help you overcome your fears?
• Will you reach out to GOD today for strength?

ALWAYS is a Strong Word

Psalm 9: ⁹ The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed,
    a stronghold in times of trouble.
¹⁰ Those who know your name trust in you,
    for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.

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I have never seen a time when GOD refused me. I mean I could have done the dumbest thing that would seem catastrophic to our relationship, yet GOD seems to be above the pettiness. It’s almost like GOD can see into my future or something.

• GOD knew the trouble I would go through before HE made me.
• GOD knew each trial I would go through and has already protected me from the impact of the fall.
• GOD knew the snares I would get myself into prior to making me and HE still made me with love and care.

It’s no surprise to GOD when I have a troubled heart. HE knew the trouble was coming a long time before it happened. HE opens HIS arms wide and welcomes me when I truly seek HIM. Blaming GOD is dangerous. Taking JESUS’ death and resurrection lightly is intolerable to GOD. Stifling the HOLY SPIRIT is unacceptable. Yet when I do these things GOD does something amazing. HE wipes away my tears and holds me tight.

GOD ALWAYS is trustworthy.

• Where do you seek your peace?
• Do you think the trouble you are in is not known by GOD?
• Can you truly seek HIS face today?

Asking for Forgiveness

2 Chronicles 6: ²¹ Hear the supplications of your servant and of your people Israel when they pray toward this place. Hear from heaven, your dwelling place; and when you hear, forgive.

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Laughing at the escapades of a friend, the teacher came in and saw what he was doing and immediately grabbed his arm to get his attention (yeah I know, this is back in the day). She said he would have to stay after school fifteen minutes. The laughter stopped but a giggle still remained on my face.

She then turned to me and asked “what’s so funny?” Then the words of devastation came from her mouth “You stay too! And when the time is up I want you to apologize.” Parents knew how long it would take us to get home and if we weren’t there we were questioned. And besides, why do I have to apologize? “I didn’t do anything wrong” I said to myself.

• Many times I don’t see myself as being guilty.
• Many times I rationalize what I’m doing to justify my actions.
• Many times I think I am innocent when I am really guilty.

GOD said “Your righteousness is like filthy rags” and HE is right. My acts of service have sin at the core. Even my prayers come from a sinful perspective because GOD knows I will do the same sin again and again. But there is something amazing that happens with GOD when I communicate to HIM.

• GOD says “All have sinned and have fallen short of MY glory.”
• GOD says “Confess sins. I am faithful and righteous to forgive sins and to cleanse from all unrighteousness.”
• GOD says “I truly love you so put your trust in ME.”

Admitting to GOD that I need HIM instead of being on the path I am on helps me see HIM in a different light. Instead of blaming the ONE I need I have to humbly ask for forgiveness especially when I think I haven’t done anything wrong. The Pharisees never could see they were wrong so they could never confess.

Asking GOD for forgiveness is a privilege. It shows HIM I have nowhere to turn and I trust HIS ways.

• Are you in a quandary?
• Do you feel GOD has forgotten you?
• Can you ask HIM for forgiveness and to open your eyes to a stronger relationship with HIM today?
• Can you stop being defeated, put your feelings behind you and start trusting in GOD?

Powerful Faith

2 Kings 13: ¹⁵ Elisha said, “Get a bow and some arrows,” and he did so. ¹⁶ “Take the bow in your hands,” he said to the king of Israel. When he had taken it, Elisha put his hands on the king’s hands.

¹⁷ “Open the east window,” he said, and he opened it. “Shoot!” Elisha said, and he shot. “The Lord’s arrow of victory, the arrow of victory over Aram!” Elisha declared. “You will completely destroy the Arameans at Aphek.”

¹⁸ Then he said, “Take the arrows,” and the king took them. Elisha told him, “Strike the ground.” He struck it three times and stopped. ¹⁹ The man of God was angry with him and said, “You should have struck the ground five or six times; then you would have defeated Aram and completely destroyed it. But now you will defeat it only three times.”

²⁰ Elisha died and was buried.

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Vague instructions and a mind of doubt made me call off the hunt early. I was running out of gas and the “down the road and turn left” directions left much to be desired. I panicked as the light had been on for a while. We were in the middle of nowhere so I looked for signs of life off in the distance.

As I changed course, I made it to civilization only to find everything closed! I drove twice as far as the person had instructed and eventually found gas. On the return trip I noticed the gas station the person had originally instructed me to go to was only a block away from where I turned around.

• Sometimes my doubt will make me change course.
• Sometimes my fear will make me take a wrong turn.
• Sometimes my worries will make me panic and come up with crazy plans.

There have been times where the level of my faith dictated the amount of success I achieved. I mean when I put my head down and stayed on the path, I was successful. When I was unsure of the path, questioning GOD every step of the way I wasn’t so successful. GOD wants my faith to be full.

• When I attack something with faith, GOD’s might takes me over the top.
• When I trust GOD, HE shows me just how powerful HE is.
• When I believe in GOD, I get rewarded beyond my wildest dreams.

GOD moves mountains daily. For some, HE shows HIS power blatantly, for others it’s more subtle. GOD has told me to open my eyes to HIS marvelous works daily and add a measure of faith to face the day.

• Are you full of doubt?
• Have you given up too early?
• Can you ask GOD to give you the right amount of strength to keep going on the course HE has you on even through difficulty?

Sometimes my faith needs help

1 Samuel 23: ¹⁵ While David was at Horesh in the Desert of Ziph, he learned that Saul had come out to take his life. ¹⁶ And Saul’s son Jonathan went to David at Horesh and helped him find strength in God. 

¹⁷ “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “My father Saul will not lay a hand on you. You will be king over Israel, and I will be second to you. Even my father Saul knows this.” ¹⁸ The two of them made a covenant before the Lord. Then Jonathan went home, but David remained at Horesh.

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All I could think of was “Mud” and “Dust” and “The weak baby with the fly on its eye” as I answered the call to go on this particular missions trip.  I was scared out of my wits. When we had our first meeting, one of the leaders asked are there any concerns?

I, of course, raised my hand and began blurting out a list of questions expressing my obvious concern. One of the leaders told all of us “Do not be afraid. GOD will watch over us.”

• Sometimes I get afraid of the unknown.
• Sometimes I dream of what could go wrong with my comfortable life.
• Sometimes I imagine what it would be like if the worst happens.

I imagined sleeping in a bug infested hut and in reality we stayed in a nice home in a great city. The images I had seen from television placed a false view of the people I would be serving. My fear almost kept me from answering the call BUT GOD sent word through HIS servants.

• GOD said to me “Do not be afraid.”
• GOD said to me “I will be with you.”
• GOD said to me “Serve MY people and you will be fine.”

I went on the trip and it was life changing. I saw extreme wealth and extreme poverty. I witnessed people starving to hear a message of hope and now I want to give that hope to many. I am glad GOD sent people to calm me down.

• Are you nervous about something?
• Do you fear the worst?
• Can you hear this message that GOD is with you and loves you dearly?
• Won’t you comfort a person who is nervous and tell them to “keep going?”

Would seeing GOD even matter?

Exodus 40: ³⁴ Then the cloud covered the Tent of Meeting. The glory of the Lord filled the holy tent. ³⁵ Moses couldn’t enter the Tent of Meeting because the cloud had settled on it. The glory of the Lord filled the holy tent.

³⁶ The people of Israel continued their travels. When the cloud lifted from above the holy tent, they started out. ³⁷ But if the cloud didn’t lift, they did not start out. They stayed until the day it lifted.

³⁸ So the cloud of the Lord was above the holy tent during the day. Fire was in the cloud at night. The whole community of Israel could see the cloud during all of their travels.

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Nervous and distracted by my plans, I couldn’t wait for my parents to leave.  I would then hop on a series of busses to meet a girl downtown.  We spent the entire day there and had fun.  Little did I know, I had to return home. Upon my arrival my parents lit into me.

No wonder I was nervous. I actually knew better but wanted to do what I wanted to do.

• Sometimes I ignore the warning and do what I’m going to do anyway.
• Sometimes I ignore the obstacles to sin and do what I’m going to do anyway.
• Sometimes I ignore the lessons and do what I’m going to do anyway.

The Israelites saw the Glory of the LORD every day and decided to sin anyway.  I sometimes thought that maybe GOD should say something audible or rip open the clouds every now and then so that all would believe and everything would be alright. BUT GOD says “that’s not faith.”

• GOD says faith comes from “believing” not seeing.
• GOD says faith comes from “being” not fleeing.
• GOD says faith comes from “asking and admitting” not telling HIM what to do or ignoring HIM.

GOD placed HIS laws in “every” heart. The ability to discern right from wrong is in me and it is my choice to follow GOD or my own plans. Even seeing HIM probably will not change my mind. That’s why HE sent the HOLY SPIRIT and placed HIM inside me to guide me and comfort me and pray for me. This HE does for all who believes.

• Do you doubt GOD?
• Do you desire to see HIM perform a miracle in front of you as a parlor trick because at the root you doubt HIM?
• Can you observe HIS miracles HE does on a daily basis?
• Won’t you take HIS yoke upon you and learn of HIM today?

GOD will provide

Genesis 22: ¹⁰ Then he reached out his hand and took the knife to slay his son. ¹¹ But the angel of the Lord called out to him from heaven, “Abraham! Abraham!”

“Here I am,” he replied.

¹² “Do not lay a hand on the boy,” he said. “Do not do anything to him. Now I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from me your son, your only son.”

¹³ Abraham looked up and there in a thicket he saw a ram caught by its horns. He went over and took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering instead of his son. ¹⁴ So Abraham called that place The Lord Will Provide. And to this day it is said, “On the mountain of the Lord it will be provided.”

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Shuffling through a pile of bills I felt a sense of accomplishment as I paid a little extra on some bills to get ahead. I even had a little surplus so I felt I was on my way.  Then the phone rang.  “We need a new home, appliances and furniture for this person, how can you help?” My first thought was “Let’s buy the cheapest stuff possible then I won’t be that far in the hole.”

Then that feeling came over me “Do exactly what you would want someone to do to you.” I bought the better appliances and went in the hole for a while. A couple of months later I got a raise for more than the amount I owed.

• When I look at things through unfaithful eyes I can only see bad things happening.
• When I view the future through crooked lenses I can only see a dismal end.
• When I scan the horizon through my broken filter I can only see a land of doubt and fear.

Money is where GOD and I disagree. I think I should have a pile of it and HE feels I don’t need much.  Why do I feel this way? Because whenever I seem to have a pile of cash, something comes along to nip at the pile until the pile is gone. Stuff breaks, gets stolen or lost. But GOD has an answer.

• GOD wants me to fear HIM instead of fearing losing my cash.
• GOD wants me to sacrifice for HIM instead of doing anything for money.
• GOD wants me to understand that HE will provide no matter how dark things may seem.

I may not understand the trials GOD allows in my life but I do know HE has strengthened me through each one and HE has provided every step of the way.

• Are you full of fear?
• Do you think GOD has given up on you because you are down a few dollars?
• Can you realize that GOD may be strengthening your faith in HIM by getting rid of your fear?
• Won’t you face your fear today and allow GOD to grow you?