Peaceful Acceptance of the Calling

Peaceful Acceptance of the Calling

Exodus 4: ¹⁸ So Moses went and returned to Jethro his father-in-law, and said to him, “Please let me go and return to my brethren who are in Egypt, and see whether they are still alive.”

And Jethro said to Moses, “Go in peace.”

 

¹⁹ Now the Lord said to Moses in Midian, “Go, return to Egypt; for all the men who sought your life are dead.” ²⁰ Then Moses took his wife and his sons and set them on a donkey, and he returned to the land of Egypt. And Moses took the rod of God in his hand.

 

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GOD appeared to Moses in the form of fire inside of a bush. GOD showed Moses HIS power by turning his rod into a snake. HE also turned Moses’s hand leprous and healed it. Moses declined the calling, BUT GOD gave him an alternative to his thinking. HE would send Aaron with him. Moses went to his father-in-law and told him about he was leaving.

 

My Observations:

• Moses accepted GOD’s calling on his life.
• Moses wanted peace with his father-in-law, so he asked for permission.
• GOD had to assure Moses that no one would be out to kill him because those who sought his life were all dead.

 

As comfortable and content as Moses was, he was being asked to go and free the Israelites from captivity in Egypt. GOD helped Moses overcome his comfort and contentment by sending him back into action. The reason Moses killed an Egyptian is because he saw unfair treatment. He took matters in his own hand, which caused the Egyptians to want to kill him and the Israelites to fear him. He was in a bad place.

 

BUT GOD gave him comfort that HE would be with him. Moses packed up his family, Zipporah, Gershom and Eliezer, and headed to Egypt. He also took with him the rod of GOD as a sign that he believed in what GOD said.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about his conversation with his father-in-law.
• Have you come to grips with GOD’s calling on your life even though it may be scary?
• Are you overwhelmed by GOD’s calling on your life and will you accept HIS peace?

If They Do Not Believe You

If They Do Not Believe You

Exodus 4: ⁶ Furthermore the Lord said to him, “Now put your hand in your bosom.” And he put his hand in his bosom, and when he took it out, behold, his hand was leprous, like snow. ⁷ And He said, “Put your hand in your bosom again.” So he put his hand in his bosom again, and drew it out of his bosom, and behold, it was restored like his other flesh. ⁸ “Then it will be, if they do not believe you, nor heed the message of the first sign, that they may believe the message of the latter sign. ⁹ And it shall be, if they do not believe even these two signs, or listen to your voice, that you shall take water from the river and pour it on the dry land. The water which you take from the river will become blood on the dry land.”

 

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Moses was sent by GOD to bring the Hebrews out from under the cruel hands of the Egyptians. Moses asked questions about his calling. GOD obliged him by performing miracles. Moses stuck his hand in his bosom and it became leprous. He then put it back in and it was healed.

 

My Observations:

• Moses needed convincing that he was called by GOD to do what HE said.
• Moses placed his hand in the fold area where the ribs meet the stomach, but there may have also been a miraculous insertion under the skin.
• GOD told Moses that if they do not believe, then HE was going to handle it.

 

Convincing people was not Moses’s job like he thought. He was simply supposed to be obedient and allow GOD to do the supernatural stuff. This is the first time leprosy is mentioned in the Bible. GOD was showing Moses that HE can cause a supernatural disease and heal it just as easily.

 

GOD wanted Moses to have solid belief in his calling. HE wants the same with you. It is not up to you whether someone believes in GOD’s calling on your life, or that they place their belief in HIS SON. GOD wants you and me to be faithful to HIM and to do as HE says. HE is looking for the lost and HIS directions on our lives are pure in HIS pursuit.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about the miracle of leprosy on his hand?
• Do you need convincing of your calling?
• Once convinced of your calling, what are your next steps to being faithful to GOD?

Called Out of Darkness

Called Out of Darkness

1 Peter 2: ⁹ But you are the chosen race, the King's priests, the holy nation, God's own people, chosen to proclaim the wonderful acts of God, who called you out of darkness into his own marvelous light. ¹⁰ At one time you were not God's people, but now you are his people; at one time you did not know God's mercy, but now you have received his mercy.

 

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Desiring to be “on my own”, I pursued “fun” the way others defined it. “Come on, it’s not so bad” was the statement before doing everything I tried. Soon I found myself in trouble because of the “fun” I was having. Everyone who was having “fun” did not provide any help.

 

• I did not know how I ended up where I was.
• I did not know that I was stepping into darkness a little step at a time.
• I did not know that when trouble hit, those who were in the dark would not help me.

 

Peter provides a pep talk to those chosen by GOD. HE stated that being called out of darkness is equivalent to being enlightened in the knowledge of JESUS and HIS wonderful acts. He also said the chosen were supposed to proclaim these wonderful acts.

 

My Observations:

• GOD chose us to come out of darkness so we can proclaim JESUS as the Savior.
• GOD chose us to have abundant life while we proclaim JESUS as LORD of the living.
• GOD chose us to follow HIS ways so others can be saved.

 

Darkness seems innocent. I mean, when I am asked why I did something people would consider “bad” or “wrong”. My childish response was usually “I don’t know.” This means I was doing things without knowing if there were any consequences to my actions. BUT GOD wanted me enlightened.

 

HE called me out of ways that seem innocent, yet carry consequences among humans and HIM. HE wanted me to see that I was on the wrong path and gently nudged me back to HIS path, namely following JESUS’s examples. I am glad JESUS called you and me out of darkness.

 

Challenge

• What darkness is the writer talking about?
• Have you ever wanted to do what “everyone else” is doing, yet felt there was something wrong with it?
• Have you lost your sense of consequence?
• Will you seek to follow GOD’s ways by learning what they are today?

But You

But You

2 Timothy 4: ³ The time will come when people will not listen to sound doctrine, but will follow their own desires and will collect for themselves more and more teachers who will tell them what they are itching to hear. ⁴ They will turn away from listening to the truth and give their attention to legends. ⁵ But you must keep control of yourself in all circumstances; endure suffering, do the work of a preacher of the Good News, and perform your whole duty as a servant of God.

 

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Waiting a few seconds in silence, one student gave the “all clear” so everyone could get up and do whatever. The teacher had given us a command to remain silent until she returned. That was laughable. I usually did not participate, but I walked around, laughed and played. When she returned, I was still away from my desk. “Stay after class” she said. Nervous at her words, I complied. “I expect this from some of the others, but you… I expect more.”

 

• Her words cut deep.
• I regretted doing like “everyone” else.
• I knew I should have listened to that voice inside that said “Don’t do this.”

 

Paul warns of an impending time that will come when people will just flat out stop listening to GOD’s word. He tells Timothy that human desires will become more prevalent and people will even become teachers, telling others to follow the wide path. “But you”, referring to believers in CHRIST, keep control.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to keep control and endure suffering, even when the crowd has a different way.
• GOD wants me to preach the Good News, even when it is not popular to preach.
• GOD wants me to perform my duty as a servant of HIM, even when it means becoming low instead of being raised up high by the world.

 

Let’s face it, speaking about JESUS is tough. I mean, the world will fall away from listening to this message and it will seem like an overwhelming task to speak about the love of JESUS, expecting results. BUT GOD wants everyone who believes in JESUS to seek and speak.

 

It does seem like people only think of self-preservation. Classes and mantras are taught, devoid the love of JESUS. Implied messages do not carry the words “JESUS died for me and was raised from the dead. My belief in HIM gives me eternal life. HE wants your heart, will you accept HIM today?” I will gladly speak on HIS behalf to small crowds if necessary.

 

Challenge

• Does the writer paint an easy picture?
• Do you feel like life should be easy?
• Will you take a deep breath and speak on HIS behalf, even when the world is not listening, because GOD needs you for “that” person today?

Purpose Given

Purpose Given

1 Timothy 2: ³ This is good and it pleases God our Savior, ⁴ who wants everyone to be saved and to come to know the truth. ⁵ For there is one God, and there is one who brings God and human beings together, the man Christ Jesus, ⁶ who gave himself to redeem the whole human race. That was the proof at the right time that God wants everyone to be saved, ⁷ and that is why I was sent as an apostle and teacher of the Gentiles, to proclaim the message of faith and truth. I am not lying; I am telling the truth!

 

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“Please take notes” were the words asked of me that I was insulted by. I had been invited to a meeting with the highest executives in the company and they only wanted me to take notes!? But after doing it for a while, I realized, I was learning about concerns that I never would have.

 

• I admit, I did not like my purpose.
• I wanted to “be” something other than someone else’s lacky.
• I almost missed something huge by not wanting to start out small and learn.

 

Paul explained purpose. Not just his, but all humans. He explained that GOD “wants everyone to be saved and to come to know the truth.” JESUS took this purpose seriously and took on the sins of mankind to redeem the whole human race. He then proclaims that he too wants this as his purpose.

 

My Observations

• Without understanding GOD’s desire, I cannot “be” what HE made me for.
• I have to love what GOD loves in order to see the purpose HE made me for.
• GOD’s purpose for me may be simpler than I would like it to be, but I may be missing a lesson that would grow me.

 

Wanting to “be” something else can get in the way of my purpose. I mean, wanting to be a celebrity, or have a different shape or to not be what I am can cause me to miss out on the purpose I have been given right here and now.

 

I may be given the opportunity to reach the person in front of me with the greatest message one could ever hear, namely JESUS died for you and me and is alive! Instead, I may grouse about my business or job or family state. GOD forgives me and fills me up to see HIS purpose and wants me to be thankful for being chosen to go out and seek HIS Kingdom.

 

Challenge

• What do you think is “good and pleasing” to the LORD as the writer puts it?
• Have you ever wanted to take classes or read books on how to be a better you?
• Be honest, do you like you?
• Will you see yourself as GOD sees you and accept your purpose which is to save the lost today?

 

Prayer

Dear LORD, thank you for giving this reader purpose. Help him or her accept YOUR purpose so abundant life can be given. amen

You ARE Special

You ARE Special

2 Thessalonians 1: ¹³ But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God from the beginning chose you for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth, ¹⁴ to which He called you by our gospel, for the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. ¹⁵ Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle.

 

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Feeling lonely, I sought out people who would be “friendly.” When I found a group, I was always welcome, but something was missing. Each group seemed similar, promoting “unity” and “service” But was there more.

 

• I felt there had to be more than being in a group.
• In some groups, I felt lonelier because something was missing.
• I noticed some people made the “group” their purpose in life, but there had to be more.

 

Paul, Silas and Timothy express their gratitude for those who believe in JESUS as the Savior. They explain how GOD has called people for a purpose and set them apart for HIS own. They also urge the people to stay special by learning about JESUS.

 

My Observations

• Thankfulness for others stretches beyond any group I can get into.
• GOD chose me for salvation and set me apart by the SPIRIT and belief in the truth.
• Glory of our LORD JESUS CHRIST is given to me because GOD chose me.

 

GOD chose you and that is what makes you special. I mean, groups can make me feel special for a moment, but something will always be missing, namely GOD. I know I have to remain on this earth and live in the world, so GOD doesn’t mind me socializing. But that is not my purpose.

 

From the time I was born until the time JESUS returns, GOD gives me purpose. HE will examine every word and deed to see if HE is involved. All the things I thought were “special” may not be to HIM. HE will reward me for the things I truly did in HIS name. I am grateful GOD holds onto me even when I let go of HIM.

 

Challenge

• What is the calling the writers are speaking about?
• Have you ever been part of a group yet felt a higher calling?
• Will you fulfill your purpose by letting go of the world’s solutions and focus on what GOD has called you to do today?

Keep Going "Froward!"

Keep Going "Froward!"

Philippians 3: ¹² I do not claim that I have already succeeded or have already become perfect. I keep striving to win the prize for which Christ Jesus has already won me to himself. ¹³ Of course, my friends, I really do not think that I have already won it; the one thing I do, however, is to forget what is behind me and do my best to reach what is ahead. ¹⁴ So I run straight toward the goal in order to win the prize, which is God's call through Christ Jesus to the life above.

 

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Wearing newish shoes was special to me because it happened once a year. This pair was cloth with rubber soles. I accidentally stepped in some dog poop. It got all over the shoes. I tried wiping the shoe on the grass to no avail. The stench wreaked the entire day at school, so much so that it brought unwanted attention to me.

 

• I was constantly reminded about my mistake.
• I was upset that my newish shoes were ruined and I had to wait a whole year for another pair.
• I was embarrassed because I distracted other people with my problem.

 

Paul gives everyone a great suggestion. “Keep striving to win the prize for which CHRIST JESUS has already won…” He then states he is not perfect, which implies that he made mistakes and will continue to make mistakes. He gives a solution for making mistakes. “Reach what is ahead.”

 

My Observations

• The enemy constantly reminds me of my mistakes, BUT GOD reminds me HE has forgiven me.
• I replay mistakes over and over with regret, BUT GOD shows me I am still on HIS path.
• Embarrassment plagued my thoughts BUT GOD gave me purpose which wiped away my shame.

 

“GOD’s call through CHRIST to life above” is the one and only true goal. I mean, all other goals I set for myself will be riddled with problems and failures. Like stepping in dog poop, these issues remind me that things could be better or “new” or “different.” I then complain to GOD which takes me off HIS path.

 

Fortunately GOD picks me up and places me back on HIS path. HE bends down and washes my feet, making everything new. Old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. I am glad GOD is the goal and HE allows me to make mistakes because HE can clean up any mess and make me new.

 

Challenge

• Does the writer think he is perfect?
• What does perfection look like in your mind?
• Have you ever been disappointed with yourself for falling or failure?
• Will you be forgiven through CHRIST JESUS so you can run straight towards HIS purpose and allow HIM to wipe the sticky mess off your feet today?

Self-Worth

Self-Worth

1 Corinthians 7: ¹⁷ Each of you should go on living according to the Lord's gift to you, and as you were when God called you. This is the rule I teach in all the churches. ¹⁸ If a circumcised man has accepted God's call, he should not try to remove the marks of circumcision; if an uncircumcised man has accepted God's call, he should not get circumcised. ¹⁹ For whether or not a man is circumcised means nothing; what matters is to obey God's commandments. ²⁰ Each of you should remain as you were when you accepted God's call. ²¹ Were you a slave when God called you? Well, never mind; but if you have a chance to become free, use it. ²² For a slave who has been called by the Lord is the Lord's free person; in the same way a free person who has been called by Christ is his slave. ²³ God bought you for a price; so do not become slaves of people. ²⁴ My friends, each of you should remain in fellowship with God in the same condition that you were when you were called.

 

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After reaching a certain level, I was kind of proud of “my” accomplishments. But it wasn’t enough. I wanted to be the top in the industry at this particular company. Unfortunately, I ran into others who did not have the same feeling and I found myself searching for a new career. I felt dejected and low. “How am I going to start over?” “Who will value ‘my’ opinion?” I felt ashamed to be unemployed.

 

• At one time my self-worth was based on “my” title.
• At one time I judged others based on “their” title.
• At one time I valued what humans called “successful” and I placed all my time and effort in becoming what they needed me to become.

 

Paul explains that GOD has given each human a gift to be used for HIS purpose. GOD calls each human to do a marvelous work for HIM. The war, however, is waged on humanity against using these gifts. Instead, humans withhold resources in exchange for large prices, thus instituting a form of voluntary slavery, meanwhile keeping people from speaking about JESUS daily.

 

• GOD wants me to be free to speak about JESUS daily.
• GOD wants me to add self-control where I used to be free to sin.
• GOD wants me to place my self-worth in HIM rather than what humans think of me.

 

Valuing what JESUS did enables me to never become a slave to humans. I am not saying quit your job, rather revisit the value placed on the job. When my total self-worth is on material items and titles, I can quickly become enslaved by these things and worry ensues.

 

Placing my self-worth in the valuable price JESUS paid grows precious dividends in HIS kingdom. HE freely gives me people HE cherishes and provides food for me to give to HIS sheep. I am grateful I am free to speak about JESUS and I am governed by the self-control HE wants me to have.

 

• Do you feel trapped?
• Do you want to be free?
• Will you accept the freedom GOD wants you to have while remaining in fellowship with HIM by using your gift for HIM today?

Answer the Call

 

Answer the Call

Romans 8: ²⁸ We know that in all things God works for good with those who love him, those whom he has called according to his purpose. ²⁹ Those whom God had already chosen he also set apart to become like his Son, so that the Son would be the first among many believers. ³⁰ And so those whom God set apart, he called; and those he called, he put right with himself, and he shared his glory with them.

 

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Avoiding the phone became a normal occurrence. I let the answering machine screen the calls because I did not have any money and could not see getting any money in the near future. Yes, I said answering machine. I would hear the creditors asking for money I did not have. The call would only make me feel worse.

 

• Many times I avoided calls because I was afraid of the caller.
• Many times I avoided calls because I thought I could not do what the caller was asking.
• Many times I avoided calls because I knew I would have to confess that I owed something, but could not repay.

 

Paul says something that can be a little hard to understand. He talks about GOD choosing people. The sinful question that tries to negate GOD choosing people is “Why?” Paul does not explain “why”, rather he encourages those who have been chosen by GOD to know the calling has purpose. This purpose brings the good of GOD, so HIS calling is one that gives power.

 

• GOD has called me for HIS purpose.
• GOD has chosen me to become like JESUS.
• GOD has put me right with HIMSELF so I can do HIS will.

 

Answering GOD’s call is strange. I mean, HE seems to call at the wrong time, in the wrong way. Just like a creditor calling when I have no money, GOD seems to call when I am not ready or have nothing to give. BUT HIS call needs to be answered.

 

GOD wants me to be powerless so I can truly point to HIS power. HE gives me purpose and shares HIS glory with me. The purpose is to share the love of JESUS with as many as GOD has given me. I accept GOD’s calling on my life.

 

• Is GOD trying to speak to you but you are too busy or worried with life?
• Does your bills or desires make you not want to hear GOD’s calling?
• Will you let go of the control you have on your life and allow GOD to give you purpose that is meaningful today?

Called to Belong

 

Called to Belong

Romans 1: From Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus and an apostle chosen and called by God to preach his Good News.

 

² The Good News was promised long ago by God through his prophets, as written in the Holy Scriptures. ³ It is about his Son, our Lord Jesus Christ: as to his humanity, he was born a descendant of David; ⁴ as to his divine holiness, he was shown with great power to be the Son of God by being raised from death. ⁵ Through him God gave me the privilege of being an apostle for the sake of Christ, in order to lead people of all nations to believe and obey. ⁶ This also includes you who are in Rome, whom God has called to belong to Jesus Christ.

 

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Feeling out of place became the norm. Everywhere I went, I felt alone, even in the middle of a crowd. One day I sat in my apartment, grousing about my situation. “Why am I here in this place?” I cried out. “Where are the good parties and clubs? I don’t belong here!” Little did I know, it was the perfect place to get off a destructive path I could not see.

 

• Looking back, there were situations I went through that grew my patience.
• Looking back, there were situations I went through to change my path.
• Looking back, there were situations I went through that seemed painful, but opened my eyes to GOD.

 

Paul begins his letter to the Romans with a salutation that recognizes his purpose in life, namely to preach the Good News of JESUS. He spent his life trying to do what was right in his own eyes, but GOD arranged situations to blind him to what was wrong and open his eyes to JESUS. Paul now had a purpose that made sense.

 

• GOD wants me to preach the GOD News about JESUS being raised from the dead.
• GOD wants me to understand and “live” what the scriptures say about JESUS.
• GOD wants me to be grateful enough for what JESUS did for me to lead people of all nations to believe and obey.

 

Before I knew it, I belonged. I no longer felt lonely in crowds because I saw a need versus being needy. The crowd was searching and GOD called me to point them to HIM. HE opened my eyes to the fact that HIS family is huge and full of love. I am grateful to belong to JESUS CHRIST.

 

• Are you lonely?
• Does it seem like your life’s purpose is your school, job, family or friends?
• Will you ask GOD to give you HIS purpose of telling those around you about being saved eternally by JESUS today?

Recruited

Recruited

Acts 26: ¹² “On one of these journeys I was going to Damascus with the authority and commission of the chief priests. ¹³ About noon, King Agrippa, as I was on the road, I saw a light from heaven, brighter than the sun, blazing around me and my companions. ¹⁴ We all fell to the ground, and I heard a voice saying to me in Aramaic, ‘Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me? It is hard for you to kick against the goads.’

 

¹⁵ “Then I asked, ‘Who are you, Lord?’

 

“ ‘I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,’ the Lord replied. ¹⁶ ‘Now get up and stand on your feet. I have appeared to you to appoint you as a servant and as a witness of what you have seen and will see of me. ¹⁷ I will rescue you from your own people and from the Gentiles. I am sending you to them ¹⁸ to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.’

 

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“We heard about you” were the strange words from the person on the phone. “How would you like to work for another company?” I wasn’t looking for a job at the time, but the recruiter presented the opportunity so well that I had to investigate.

 

• There have been times when I have been recruited.
• There have been times when I have been sought after.
• There have been times when I was not looking for something, yet the something found me.

 

Paul continued explaining his background to King Agrippa. He mention how JESUS stopped him from going to Damascus to kill more people who truly followed GOD. JESUS told Paul that HE was “Appointing him as a servant.” JESUS sought after Paul.

 

• GOD wants me to be HIS servant.
• GOD pursued me when I was not looking for HIM.
• GOD opened my eyes and turned me from darkness to light.

 

Belief that I live in darkness is hard to do when there is artificial light. I mean, when things are semi-good, it is hard to see that I need help. BUT GOD sees something different. HE sees the total darkness the world is in.

 

GOD recruits people to see JESUS as the Savior of the world. HE opens their eyes to the false light Satan provides. GOD wants all to be saved, but knows some will choose not to believe in JESUS. I gladly accept GOD’s recruitment to tell people about eternal salvation through JESUS.

 

• Are you living so comfortably that you think you do not need JESUS?
• Do you believe in the world’s philosophies more than the leading of the HOLY SPIRIT?
• Will you allow GOD to recruit you into telling people about how JESUS died for your sins and is now alive, forgiving you for all eternity? 

Called to Action

Called to Action

Acts 13: ⁴ So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia, and from there they sailed to Cyprus. ⁵ And when they arrived in Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews. They also had John as their assistant.

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“Unload the truck” was the statement from our supervisor. It was a hot summer day on the temporary job. “You want to play a game to pass the time?” a coworker asked me. “Sure” I replied. We goofed off for a long while.

The supervisor came back and saw practically nothing was done. “Get this done!” he exclaimed. Looking back, I did not know the company was being charged fees for taking too long to unload.

• There was a time when I did not take my calling seriously.
• There was a time when I looked at my calling as a distraction.
• There was a time when I went in other directions from my calling.

Barnabas and Saul were sent by the HOLY SPIRIT to do a great work for HIM. They sailed to the place they were sent. The moment they arrived, they preached the word of GOD. They wasted no time.

• GOD wants me to obey HIS calling immediately.
• GOD wants me to get rid of my complaints about HIS calling and respond with action.
• GOD wants me to see not doing HIS calling as something to fear.

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom. When GOD calls me to do something, HE wants immediacy. HE is patient though. HE knew I would walk away from HIS calling or half do it from time to time. HE grows me up to see the importance of HIS calling so I will take it seriously and not complain. I am grateful GOD rewards me when obey HIM.

• Are you half-serving GOD?
• Do you place the world’s situations over GOD’s calling?
• Will you answer GOD’s calling on your life with immediacy and priority today?

Optimistic Faith

John 1: ⁴⁶ ‘Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?’ Nathanael asked.

‘Come and see,’ said Philip.

⁴⁷ When Jesus saw Nathanael approaching, he said of him, ‘Here truly is an Israelite in whom there is no deceit.’

⁴⁸ ‘How do you know me?’ Nathanael asked.

Jesus answered, ‘I saw you while you were still under the fig-tree before Philip called you.’

⁴⁹ Then Nathanael declared, ‘Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the king of Israel.’

⁵⁰ Jesus said, ‘You believe because I told you I saw you under the fig-tree. You will see greater things than that.’ ⁵¹ He then added, ‘Very truly I tell you, you will see “heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending on” the Son of Man.’

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“The job is yours” said one of the higher–ups to me. First of all, I did not apply to the position and secondly, it seemed too good to be true. I was skeptical so I asked other people what was going on. “You were chosen for the position” they said. I cautiously went along with what they were saying until they made the announcement.

• Many times I have been skeptical.
• Many times I wanted to see proof in order to believe.
• Many times I doubted some great news until I saw it for myself.

Nathaniel had a reputation for being honest. When he heard about JESUS, who was born in Nazareth, he questioned the validity of this person being the Messiah. It would seem that the savior of the world would come from a great city with wealth and power. JESUS told him otherwise.

• GOD wants me to believe in HIS ways with optimistic faith.
• GOD wants me to know HE can do anything because HE is the true power.
• GOD wants me to understand that when HE gives me a promise, HE will never back down from it.

One day GOD will reveal to everyone the plan HE has for humans. This day to day life will be changed to an eternal way of living, with GOD or without HIM. Until that happens, GOD wants me to have optimistic faith that overflows onto others. HE wants me to mention JESUS as much as I can until HE returns. I am grateful GOD is faithful to me.

• Do you believe in what GOD is doing for you?
• Do you believe HE has an incredible plan for you?
• Will you put away any skepticism and allow GOD to execute HIS plan for you without doubt today?

More to Life

Mark ¹⁶ As Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen.¹⁷ “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” ¹⁸ At once they left their nets and followed him.

¹⁹ When he had gone a little farther, he saw James son of Zebedee and his brother John in a boat, preparing their nets. ²⁰ Without delay he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men and followed him.

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“Finally a real job” I thought to myself. I had enough of dumping cigarettes in the garbage and cleaning toilets! It wasn’t long into the job that I became restless. The job was repetitious and boring. “There has got to be more to life than this!”

• There were times when I wondered what my purpose was.
• There were times when I wondered what the existence of life meant.
• There were times when I wanted to do more and be more than what I was.

Purpose and meaning were two words that truly resonated with me. I mean if I was doing something were fruitless, I saw through it and desired to run in the opposite direction. What is meaningful?

• GOD said to me “I want you to come, follow ME.”
• GOD said to me “I WILL send you out to fish for people.”
• GOD said to me “There is no failure when I give you purpose.”

When GOD gives me something to do, it is part of HIS intricate plan. Nothing I do goes to waste. I may not see all the steps or components, but HIS plan is perfect. HE calls me into this perfect plan and gives me a higher calling. HE wants me to bring people back to HIM.

• Are you searching for meaning?
• Do you think your job or school is your sole purpose in life?
• Can you stop thinking you are at the end of your rope and allow GOD to use you for a greater purpose?

Speak when spoken to

Amos 3: ⁷ Surely the Sovereign Lord does nothing
    without revealing his plan
    to his servants the prophets.

⁸ The lion has roared—
    who will not fear?
The Sovereign Lord has spoken—
    who can but prophesy?

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“What will people think of me?” was my thought as I moved up the ladder. I mean I have to show how accepting I am of various beliefs because “my” department was very diverse in culture. I chose not to speak about GOD or my beliefs in HIS ways. When asked to speak about GOD to the masses, I politely refused.

• There have been times I have hidden my association with GOD.
• There have been times I have remained silent when I was told to speak.
• There have been times I have hidden my values so I could “get ahead.”

My choice was to remain neutral while becoming “tough” enough to carry out the orders of leadership. Soon instead of names, the people were “full time equivalents” on a spreadsheet and could be cut if the numbers were not as they should. BUT GOD wants me to act different.

• GOD wants me to put in a full day’s work as promised to those who hired me.
• GOD wants me to show HIS grace through my hard work because I am working for HIM.
• GOD wants me to speak about HIM at a moment’s notice without being ashamed.

Employers do not hire me to spread GOD’s word, but they also should know I am not ashamed of GOD in any way. I will always work hard and produce the best, but if asked, I will not hide my light from anyone. GOD is my beacon and when the Lion roars I must prophesy.

• Are you hiding your relationship with GOD because of your position?
• Do you feel ashamed of GOD in front of “those” people?
• Can you drop your shame of HIM and listen to what HE wants you to say to “those” people?
• Will you open your mouth when GOD tells you to do so?

Neighborly Accountability

Ezekiel 33: ⁷ “Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the people of Israel; so hear the word I speak and give them warning from me. ⁸ When I say to the wicked, ‘You wicked person, you will surely die,’ and you do not speak out to dissuade them from their ways, that wicked person will die for their sin, and I will hold you accountable for their blood. ⁹ But if you do warn the wicked person to turn from their ways and they do not do so, they will die for their sin, though you yourself will be saved.

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Silently I let a few people fall. In my mind they were slimy and would stop at nothing to get ahead. When I heard they were being watched I said to myself “Good, serves them right!” I did not warn them of their impending doom.

• There have been some people I have wanted to see fail.
• There have been some people I have wanted to see crash and burn.
• There have been some people I have wanted to get what is coming to them.

Watching someone fail actually felt pretty good. I mean they had their chance to do the right thing right? Wrong! While they may have been warned by others, they may have listened to me. GOD wants me to behave differently than a “mini-judge.”

• GOD wants me to have grace in my heart for all, even those who have stepped on my "last nerve.”
• GOD wants me to have grace in my heart for all, especially the one who I think “deserves” a good fall.
• GOD wants me to have grace in my heart for all, for the same measure of grace I show others will be shown to me.

It is real easy to point out the problems in others. It makes me forget that I need grace as well. Instead of “that” person needing to change, GOD wants me to change my heart towards them. HE wants me to have compassion rather than rage and tells me to “Pray without ceasing” for those who truly need to hear encouragement instead of argument. GOD holds me accountable for those HE put around me.

• Are you sitting back and watching a person fail?
• Do you think your actions are better than theirs?
• Can you ask GOD for words of encouragement they may need in order to turn their eyes back to HIM?
• Will you accept GOD’s calling to tell people about turning to the SON?

HE is Calling You

Jeremiah 1: ⁴ The word of the Lord came to me, saying,

⁵ “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,
    before you were born I set you apart;
    I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”

⁶ “Alas, Sovereign Lord,” I said, “I do not know how to speak; I am too young.”

⁷ But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am too young.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. ⁸ Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the Lord.

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¹⁶ I will pronounce my judgments on my people
    because of their wickedness in forsaking me,
in burning incense to other gods
    and in worshiping what their hands have made.

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“Teach MY people” was the overwhelming desire that came over me. I felt this sensation to teach about GOD, but I had not read the Bible. How in the world was I qualified to “teach?” I asked.

• Sometimes when I am called I do not want to answer.
• Sometimes when I am called I make up all kinds of excuses.
• Sometimes when I am called I think of ways to get out of my calling.

Putting GOD in a box means I can only see what I can see. If HE is inside a box, then I cannot see HIS wonderful power working inside of me. I also cannot see the wrong things I am doing. “The Man Upstairs” or “The Universe” are labels I can put on GOD to make HIM useless, unattached and uncaring. BUT GOD wants a different kind of relationship with me.

• GOD wants me to talk about HIS word no matter what knowledge level I have.
• GOD wants me to speak about HIS SON to bring everyone HE sends me back to HIM.
• GOD wants me to tell people about HIS word no matter how difficult the words may be.

When GOD calls me I should answer. HIS route is usually more difficult, more embarrassing and one that I would not have taken. BUT GOD blesses me each time I choose HIS way. HE opens my eyes to my own sins meanwhile consecrating me to do HIS bidding. HE blesses each step and carries me to the finish line. GOD has a wonderful plan for me!

• Are you turning away from GOD?
• Are you making up excuses?
• Will you allow GOD to change your life for HIM?

New Name New Identity

Isaiah 62: For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent,
    for Jerusalem’s sake I will not remain quiet,
till her vindication shines out like the dawn,
    her salvation like a blazing torch.
² The nations will see your vindication,
    and all kings your glory;
you will be called by a new name
    that the mouth of the Lord will bestow.
³ You will be a crown of splendor in the Lord’s hand,
    a royal diadem in the hand of your God.
⁴ No longer will they call you Deserted,
    or name your land Desolate.
But you will be called Hephzibah,
    and your land Beulah;
for the Lord will take delight in you,
    and your land will be married.

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“Weakling” was one name the jocks gave me. “Too [insert word]” were the many names the other people gave me. I still remember the names so they must have hurt when people gave them to me. In fact, some of the names made me take a path to clear the name. For “Skinny” I lifted weights until people changed the name to “Muscles” but soon I found no kingdom merit in that name. What name should I seek?

• Sometimes I seek names from other people.
• Sometimes the names other people give me hurt instead of helps.
• Sometimes I may be seeking the wrong name when I should be seeking another name.

“Famous” or “Wealthy” or “Party Animal” were all names I sought after to clear the other names I had been called over the years. After becoming all of the above I received no merit in those names. I was famous at one place and wealthy amongst my peers but my life was pointing to me and had no “fruit.”  GOD wanted me on a new path.

• GOD said to me “Go feed my sheep” which meant I had to have the name of “Teacher” to be ready to feed people from GOD’s word.
• GOD said to me “Pray for the multitudes I send you” which meant I needed the name “Understanding” to be able to reach people of many nations.
• GOD said to me “Forgive them” which meant I had to obtain the name “Gracious” which means pointing all towards the SON instead of pointing them to me.

With a new name came a new identity. I had to walk with GOD as I talked with HIM. I had to actually have faith, not just talk about belief and hiding behind my wealth. If I wanted GOD’s fruit I had to obtain it HIS way, not mine. “Arrogant” had to be exchanged for “Humble”. GOD demanded major changes in my life and I bow to those changes. I have not arrived, but I’m on my way to my new name.

• Are you trying to make a name for yourself?
• Do you want to prove yourself to other people?
• Can you take a step back and seek the name GOD has for you?

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?

Comfort Versus Calamity

Job 13: ¹⁵ Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him;
    I will surely defend my ways to his face.
¹⁶ Indeed, this will turn out for my deliverance,
    for no godless person would dare come before him!

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Shivering got on my nerves. The apartment we lived in was drafty and ice formed on the windows inside. I couldn’t stand to be cold for a moment so I went to the hardware store and purchased some plastic to tape around the sill. Now my apartment was toasty.

Later that week I went to church and realized I could make the church building comfortable too. I mean we needed to have a place of warmth and we were doing this for GOD right? Hmm.

• Sometimes my church efforts are for my comfort rather than HIS purpose.
• Sometimes my church effort is focused on belonging rather than serving.
• Sometimes my church efforts are for aesthetics rather than from the heart.

I’m not saying the church building had to be a shack but did I have to build a club? Soon my entire focus was on making the “members” comfortable. My prayers were on raising money for the building and my outreach efforts soon turned into contractor bids. Then it happened.

The church fell apart because of misappropriation of funds and we faced calamity anyway. This calamity caught me off guard. I mean weren’t we serving GOD? Looking back I can see some things I could have done differently.

• When it comes to GOD I must give in to HIS decisions whether they have calamity or comfort in them.
• When it comes to GOD I must seek HIS kingdom first before I seek my comfort.
• When it comes to GOD I must ask HIM for permission and be willing to accept “No” or “Wait” for an answer.

Of course I need to pray expectantly, that’s where faith comes in. But I must also pray knowing I don’t have the full picture and GOD has the right to make changes as HE sees fit. This could mean a mix of calamity with comfort. GOD is supreme and I praise HIM for it.

• Are you fighting for your comfort?
• Do you think you deserve only comfort?
• Could you accept the calling of calamity if GOD allowed it in your life?
• Will you praise GOD through any problem you are facing right now?