Making a Way When it Seemed Impossible

Making a Way When it Seemed Impossible

Exodus 14: ²¹ Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the Lord caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea into dry land, and the waters were divided. ²² So the children of Israel went into the midst of the sea on the dry ground, and the waters were a wall to them on their right hand and on their left. ²³ And the Egyptians pursued and went after them into the midst of the sea, all Pharaoh’s horses, his chariots, and his horsemen.

 

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After the preincarnate JESUS went behind them and the FATHER and HOLY SPIRIT did the same, Moses held up his hand with his rod and the Red Sea parted. GOD caused a wind to part the sea and the children of Israel walked on dry land.

 

My Observations:

• GOD dried up the ground so the children of Israel and their carts and cattle could easily cross.
• The Egyptians saw the Red Sea open and thought they could use GOD’s powerful miracle for their evil plan.
• Moses was obedient to GOD by holding up his rod.

 

The parting of the Red Sea is significant because it shows us that GOD is in control of impossible situations. Whether it was a mountain or a deep sea, GOD can make a way where it seems impossible.

 

Moses holding up his hand was a sign of total alignment with GOD. It was not his power that parted the sea, BUT GOD’s power. GOD made it easy for the children of Israel. HE dried up the ocean floor overnight. I believe GOD can do the same for impossible situations today. HE can change something that seems impossible overnight. GOD’s power is unstoppable!

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about what HE did with the Red Sea?
• Are you facing an impossible situation?
• Do you believe that GOD is in control of the impossible and HE can easily deliver you when you obey HIS plan?

Problem Defined

Problem Defined

Genesis 2: ¹⁸ And the Lord God said, “It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable to him.” ¹⁹ Out of the ground the Lord God formed every beast of the field and every bird of the air, and brought them to Adam to see what he would call them. And whatever Adam called each living creature, that was its name. ²⁰ So Adam gave names to all cattle, to the birds of the air, and to every beast of the field. But for Adam there was not found a helper comparable to him.

 

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During the creation, GOD saw a problem. Man was alone. All of the animals, birds and fish were brought to the man to see what he would call them. But nothing in all of creation was a suitable helper “comparable to him.”

 

My Observations:

• GOD saw a problem that HIS creation would be lonely even though HE was with the creation.
• GOD said. For the first time, “It is not good.”
• GOD wanted the best for HIS creation, so HE decided to make a “helper comparable to him.”

 

For the first time we see the name Adam mentioned. He was made with extreme intelligence and creativity. GOD made all the animals, birds and fish, but Adam named all of them. He did not need the tree of knowledge of good and evil, rather he needed some help.

 

Adam had enough on his plate, tending to the garden and naming the animals. This was not a stressful job, but a lot to do. GOD may have wanted the human to have someone to celebrate new observations and enjoy each other. Adam had plenty of time to do all that he had to do, because he was not made to die.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about the first problem?
• Can you see how GOD wanted the best for HIS creation?
• Are you aware that GOD wants the best for you and HE wants you fully restored today?

Facing Trials

Facing Trials

James 1: ² My friends, consider yourselves fortunate when all kinds of trials come your way, ³ for you know that when your faith succeeds in facing such trials, the result is the ability to endure. 

 

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Trying to explain what I was going through seemed impossible. Everyone was smiling and I was feeling terrible. Lots of problems were coming my way which included people being sick, debt collection and broken relationships.

 

• I did not want the phone to ring.
• I did not want to hear another problem mentioned.
• I did not want another trial.

 

James gives a strange statement to those who are scared and probably in hiding. Many people had been scattered because of their belief in JESUS. Persecution was their new normal and they needed some words to help them get over the shock.

 

My Observations:

• GOD knows I will face trials and wants me to gain endurance.
• GOD is right there with me when I am going through a trial.
• GOD grows me in the times of trouble.

 

It is not the trials that we face it is the response to the trial that is important. I mean, I can fall apart and tell people how terrible the trial is, or I can tell people I am in a trial and ask GOD for endurance. GOD does not want me to be a superhero, nor does HE want me to fold up and wither in a corner. HE wants me to admit, something is not right and rely on HIM to fix the problem.

 

GOD gives me strength when I have none. HE empathizes with the pain I feel and deeply cares when I am concerned. HE gives me endurance to withstand trials because HE assures me HE is right there going through the trial with me. I am glad HE will never leave me.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer consider trials as being fortunate?
• What trial can you think of that you came through and was stronger for it?
• Knowing GOD is right there with you, how does this change your view of the current trial?
• Will you look at the endurance you are gaining from GOD versus focusing in on the trial today?

 

Prayer

Dear LORD, we see trials as something to get out of. Please help this reader gain the right endurance to grow his or her faith. amen

Careful Thoughts

Careful Thoughts

Hebrews 2: ⁵ God has not placed the angels as rulers over the new world to come—the world of which we speak. ⁶ Instead, as it is said somewhere in the Scriptures:
“What are human beings, O God, that you should think of them;
    mere human beings, that you should care for them?
⁷ You made them for a little while lower than the angels;
    you crowned them with glory and honor
⁸     and made them rulers over all things.”

 

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Feeling alone I complained to myself “What’s wrong with me?” Everyone else seems to be enjoying themselves in life and I have “no one” who thinks about me.

 

• I was feeling lonely.
• I thought that “no one” was thinking about me.
• I wanted at least someone in the crowd to reach out to me for a change.

 

Continuing with the comparison of angels to humans, the writer, who is assumed to be Paul, explains a strange hierarchy. Humans, while frail and fragile, will someday be mightier than the angels. GOD will somehow place humans over all things.

 

My Observations

• GOD sees me and knows my thoughts.
• GOD does not want me to be alone in life so HE promised to never leave me nor forsake me.
• GOD has precious, loving thoughts about me and for me.

 

Thinking about people is GOD’s specialty. I mean, HE knows every hair on your head and mine. This means HE is concerned with every single detail about you and me. JESUS understands loneliness like no other human. HE voluntarily took on becoming the blame for all sin. HE had no one who could empathize with HIM or even be there for HIM even when HE asked.

 

HE was murdered even though HE could have rightfully called for help from thousands of angels. HE was raised from the dead and sent the COMFORTER to be with every lonely person who seeks HIM. I am glad GOD will never, ever leave me.

 

Challenge

• What is the writer pondering?
• Have you ever wondered who is thinking about you?
• Have you ever come up with the false conclusion that “no one” is thinking about you?
• Will you let go of the lie and believe that GOD loves you and cares deeply about you and is thinking about you even this very minute?

 

Prayer

Dear LORD, please provide this reader with the love and care he or she needs today. Thank YOU for caring for us and for thinking about us. amen

Staying Power

Staying Power

2 Timothy 4: ¹⁶ No one stood by me the first time I defended myself; all deserted me. May God not count it against them! ¹⁷ But the Lord stayed with me and gave me strength, so that I was able to proclaim the full message for all the Gentiles to hear; and I was rescued from being sentenced to death. ¹⁸ And the Lord will rescue me from all evil and take me safely into his heavenly Kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever! Amen.

 

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Attracting people was not an issue until I began imitating some of those who were more powerful. I figured since he or she was “successful”, I would try some of their standoffish, curt, directive ways. Soon my crowd was thinning out.

 

• Basically I had become the jerk who I did not even like.
• I pushed people away versus attracting them.
• I eventually had to admit that I was the problem and had to change quickly or be alone.

 

Paul sent Timothy a message about being alone. He used himself as the example when many people left him as he went off to speak about JESUS. Paul, a former murderer, felt all alone as he repented his ways and spoke about JESUS. Only ONE stood by him.

 

My Observations

• Even when I pushed people away, GOD did not leave me.
• GOD can see more about me than I can see in myself.
• GOD’s love for me is far greater than any political, social or historical boundaries I may fall into.

 

GOD’s love is quite amazing! I mean, HE sees when I am acting like a jerk and still loves me. HE does correct me and opens my eyes to HIS correction. HE then puts me back on HIS path. I may feel all alone and HE recognizes my loneliness.

 

HE stays with me and tells me “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” JESUS died for me and was raised from the dead. My belief in HIM gives me the HOLY SPIRIT who lives inside me, never leaving me. I am glad GOD doesn’t not leave me, even when I try to isolate myself.

 

Challenge

• How does the writer sound?
• Have you ever felt lonely?
• Will you know that GOD is with you because JESUS died for you and was raised from the dead for you and has place HIS HOLY SPIRIT in you so you will never be alone?

Remaining Hot For The Lonely

Remaining Hot For The Lonely

2 Timothy 1: ¹⁵ You know that everyone in the province of Asia, including Phygelus and Hermogenes, has deserted me. ¹⁶ May the Lord show mercy to the family of Onesiphorus, because he cheered me up many times. He was not ashamed that I am in prison, ¹⁷ but as soon as he arrived in Rome, he started looking for me until he found me. ¹⁸ May the Lord grant him his mercy on that Day! And you know very well how much he did for me in Ephesus.

 

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Feeling lonely in a crowd became more apparent when I looked at people with smiles on their faces as they greeted one another and I had no one to greet me. I walked around for a while and decided to call it a night. It was getting late, I thought to myself until I looked at the time and it was 5:30 PM. I went to my room anyway.

 

• I was lonely and the crowd made it feel worse.
• I wanted people around me who could see me.
• I desired to be noticed.

 

Paul takes a strange turn in his letter to Timothy. He expressed his loneliness while being imprisoned. He praised Onesiphorus for his diligence in visiting and the trouble he went through to find Paul. Other people may have been concerned about being associated with a “criminal” but Onesiphorus saw past that.

 

My Observations

• I can be lonely even when someone is sitting right next to me, BUT GOD is merciful and sends people to me.
• There are many people who are alone, misunderstood or by themselves for other reasons and GOD wants me and others to connect to them.
• Lonely people may not have the energy or ability to cure their own loneliness, BUT GOD sees the need and will supply the right people at the right time.

 

Part of loneliness was me and it was frustrating to admit that. I mean, I did not like meeting people because I did not have much to say, nor did I want to hear what was being said. BUT GOD intervened. HE wants to save every single human and wants me to do my part.

 

HE made people more interesting by showing HIS love to me. HE desires that the lonely, desolate and destitute be reached so HIS love can be shown. I will gladly reach out to those who GOD sends me to.

 

Challenge

• How does the writer sound?
• Have you ever been lonely?
• How does loneliness affect your relationship with GOD?
• Will you pray for a little strength and reach out to a person you know is experiencing loneliness today, even when he or she may have people around them today?

What About Me?

What about me?

1 Timothy 5: ¹¹ But do not include younger widows in the list; because when their desires make them want to marry, they turn away from Christ, ¹² and so become guilty of breaking their earlier promise to him. ¹³ They also learn to waste their time in going around from house to house; but even worse, they learn to be gossips and busybodies, talking of things they should not. ¹⁴ So I would prefer that the younger widows get married, have children, and take care of their homes, so as to give our enemies no chance of speaking evil of us. ¹⁵ For some widows have already turned away to follow Satan. ¹⁶ But if any Christian woman has widows in her family, she must take care of them and not put the burden on the church, so that it may take care of the widows who are all alone.

 

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Feeling sorry for myself had become a ritual. I was in another bad situation and simply wanted someone to get me out of the current trial. Tired of being needy and tired of being in trouble, I groused instead of being excited.

 

• I could only see my problem.
• I needed help and did not know who to ask.
• I felt that no one could understand the trial I was going through.

 

Paul continues giving advice to Timothy regarding widows. He referred to “the list” as a special list reserved for those who have cared for others as a lifelong pursuit. Paul speaks harshly about young widows who can leave their identity in CHRIST by substituting marriage as a pursuit of a new identity. He also points out a new goal, namely caring for others because the need is huge!

 

My Observations

• Sometimes I can pity myself and desire things in substitute of GOD?
• Focused attention on what GOD wants me to do, keeps me away from the traps of the enemy.
• Realizing that I am chosen by GOD as part of the solution, takes my mind off my problems and places focus on what GOD wants.

 

Let’s face it, we have all asked “What about me?” Right? I mean, when life gets hard we want someone who can provide for us during the trial or lift us out of the hole. When this doesn’t happen, we feel GOD isn’t listening and easily stop following HIM to try something else. BUT GOD understands.

 

HE wants us to focus our attention on HIM by caring about other people. This trial is not about you rather it is about keeping you from seeing GOD as the solution. Care is a great remedy to the trial. GOD may have me simply care for those around me enough to pray for him or her and possibly even meet a need every now and then. I am glad GOD helps me take my focus off of “my” trials and place it on HIS love.

 

Challenge

• Be honest, do the words of the writer sound harsh?
• Why?
• Have you ever pitied yourself and just wanted out of this trial, with or without GOD’s help?
• Will you continue to walk with the LORD, asking HIM to firm up your reliance on HIM and to open your eyes to someone who is in need today?

Being Seen

 

Being Seen

Philippians 4: ²¹ Greetings to each one of God's people who belong to Christ Jesus. The believers here with me send you their greetings. ²² All God's people here send greetings, especially those who belong to the Emperor's palace.

 

²³ May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.

 

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Walking into the convention center, I saw thousands of smiling faces. It was the first day of the convention and I did not know anyone. I wandered the convention floor without destination. When they held a greeting session, I felt better. I was introduced to people.

 

• I felt lonely in a huge crowd.
• I felt unseen even though I was in the middle of thousands.
• I felt better when I was greeted.

 

Paul concludes his letter with greetings from him and many believers. The believers at Philippi had gone through much and some felt dejected, lonely and were on the brink of giving up. Paul mentions twice that the people send their greetings as if to say, “We see you!”

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to see the unseen people like the homeless person tucked away in the corner.
• GOD wants me to understand that people need prayer.
• GOD wants me to greet people, introducing them to others so I can meet people who may be lonely as I was at the convention.

 

Being seen is not easy. I mean, in these days of self-promotion, the quiet and misunderstood can be pushed out. BUT GOD sees everyone and lives in those who believe in HIS SON. The HOLY SPIRIT guides me to greet people and bring them into HIS family.

 

Greeting people says “I see you and you are welcome here!” I am glad GOD send people to greet and welcome others.

 

Challenge

• Who is the audience of the writer?
• Have you ever felt lonely or insecure?
• Will you join a group of believers in CHRIST and greet people differently so he or she can be seen today?

Cure for the Holidays

 Cure for the Holidays

2 Corinthians 4: ¹³ The scripture says, “I spoke because I believed.” In the same spirit of faith we also speak because we believe. ¹⁴ We know that God, who raised the Lord Jesus to life, will also raise us up with Jesus and take us, together with you, into his presence. ¹⁵ All this is for your sake; and as God's grace reaches more and more people, they will offer to the glory of God more prayers of thanksgiving.

 

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Grumpy was the feeling I wanted to feel. I did not want to be cheered up during this particular holiday because I felt frustrated in life. My jalopy of a car was not working, I had a job cleaning after people who really did not care and worst of all, I had to visit people who I was angry with.

 

• The holidays emphasized my hurt.
• The holidays showed me how far I was from having a smiling face.
• The holidays seemed like a period to get beyond.

 

Paul saw through the troubles and trials of life enough to speak about JESUS. He knew there would be circumstances that would make him feel like remaining silent or hiding away in a corner until the perfect conditions appeared. He mentions a scripture that says “I spoke because I believed.” His belief was in “grace” that was necessary to fill empty hearts.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to focus on HIS love for me, especially when I don’t feel like it.
• GOD wants me to accept HIS cure for brokenness by offering HIM thanksgiving.
• GOD wants me to look beyond my circumstances to spread the message of life so more and more people will receive grace.

 

Hurt, loneliness and bitterness can blind me to my purpose. I mean, when I am tempted to want to remain grumpy, I allow myself to be open to isolation, which could also enable me to be manipulated by the enemy. He seeks to devour the meal I make each time I voice my frustration or stew in my pain.

 

GOD wants me to be guided out of my pain by others and then HE wants me to guide others out of their pain. The true cure is to be able to “believe” the Gospel is the answer to all ills so I can use thanksgiving as a weapon against any pain that arises. I am thankful and I hope all who read can know they are loved deeply.

 

Challenge

• Have you ever felt bad about wanting to feel grumpy?
• Will you accept that sometimes you will want to feel that way, but try to limit the time that you allow it?
• Will you look at “thanksgiving” as a weapon versus a feeling and use it to fight against the enemies of isolation, deep hurt and loneliness today?
• Will you be raised up from your feelings today so you can speak life to people in a small way?

True Citizenship

 

True Citizenship

Acts 22: ²² The crowd listened to Paul until he said this. Then they raised their voices and shouted, “Rid the earth of him! He’s not fit to live!”

²³ As they were shouting and throwing off their cloaks and flinging dust into the air, ²⁴ the commander ordered that Paul be taken into the barracks. He directed that he be flogged and interrogated in order to find out why the people were shouting at him like this. ²⁵ As they stretched him out to flog him, Paul said to the centurion standing there, “Is it legal for you to flog a Roman citizen who hasn’t even been found guilty?”

 

²⁶ When the centurion heard this, he went to the commander and reported it. “What are you going to do?” he asked. “This man is a Roman citizen.”

²⁷ The commander went to Paul and asked, “Tell me, are you a Roman citizen?”

“Yes, I am,” he answered.

²⁸ Then the commander said, “I had to pay a lot of money for my citizenship.”

“But I was born a citizen,” Paul replied.

 

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Feeling out of place became the norm for me. After a while, I accepted my misfit status and sat alone in many places. I did not like those who laughed at me or who talked negatively about me. I felt alone.

 

• There were times when I felt alone in a crowd.
• There were times when I felt I did not belong.
• There were times when I felt there had to be another place where I felt welcome.

 

Paul explained his background as a Jew, but when he said he was sent to the Gentiles by GOD, the crowd got angrier. The commander ordered him to be taken inside and flogged. Paul questioned this move, knowing the local law. Paul was a citizen and knew his rights.

 

• GOD wants me to know where I came from.
• GOD wants me to understand that this cursed world is not my home.
• GOD wants me to focus on HIS kingdom while I am still in this cursed world.

 

Before I was born, GOD made me. I mean, HE knew everything about me before I was ever born. HE chose me and I chose HIM. I believed in HIS SON JESUS as my Savior and HE added me into HIS kingdom as a citizen. The only kingdom that matter is HIS eternal one. I am glad to be part of GOD’s family and a citizen of HIS kingdom.

 

• Do you feel alone, even in a crowd?
• Do you feel like your life has a higher purpose than the one you are living?
• Will you become a citizen of GOD’s kingdom by believing that JESUS died for your sins and is now alive with all authority today and forever?

Accepted

Accepted

Acts 9: ²⁶ And when Saul had come to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples; but they were all afraid of him, and did not believe that he was a disciple. ²⁷ But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. And he declared to them how he had seen the Lord on the road, and that He had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. ²⁸ So he was with them at Jerusalem, coming in and going out. ²⁹ And he spoke boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus and disputed against the Hellenists, but they attempted to kill him. ³⁰ When the brethren found out, they brought him down to Caesarea and sent him out to Tarsus.

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When the reorganization was announced, I was shattered. I mean I spoke negatively about the department I left and was now told I had to go back, otherwise lose the job. I tried showing people how hard I worked, but was met with disbelief that I could ever be sincere. I needed an advocate.

• There were times when I could not push my way into a group.
• There were times when my past caused problems for the present.
• There were times when I was not accepted because of the things I said and did.

Saul persecuted anyone who spoke in the name of JESUS, or at least he was in charge of those who did the killing. When he was confronted by JESUS HIMSELF, he changed wholeheartedly and became a strong force for GOD. But the persecuted did not believe in Saul.

GOD did not zap their minds so they could see the sincerity in Saul. He needed an advocate to speak on his behalf. Fortunately Barnabas must have gotten word from Ananias, the one sent by the LORD. Barnabas became an advocate for Saul and the disciples believed.

• JESUS is my advocate and sent the HOLY SPIRIT to live in me.
• The HOLY SPIRIT speaks on my behalf, begging for my forgiveness to the FATHER.
• The FATHER is my forgiver and pours out HIS grace because I believe JESUS is my advocate.

Being accepted into GOD’s family felt great. I mean even though I messed up time after time, GOD saw me and said “Come to ME and I will give you rest.” I could finally rest from what I was searching for. I may not be accepted by humans, BUT GOD always accepts me. I believe in the love of JESUS.

• Are you searching for a group to accept you?
• Do you seek love and are willing to accept something that may be a lie or even harmful to you?
• Will you turn your life to true love, which is JESUS, who is your advocate?

Loved

Loved

John 16: ²⁵ “These things I have spoken to you in figurative language; but the time is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figurative language, but I will tell you plainly about the Father. ²⁶ In that day you will ask in My name, and I do not say to you that I shall pray the Father for you; ²⁷ for the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me, and have believed that I came forth from God. ²⁸ I came forth from the Father and have come into the world. Again, I leave the world and go to the Father.”

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After being dumped by someone I liked, I said “no one will love me.” I felt dejected. After a while, I went out with someone else. After a job elimination I said “No one will hire me.” I felt lost. After a while, I found another position.

• I have felt abandoned.
• I have felt lonely.
• I have felt unwanted, undesired and unloved.

JESUS speaks plainly to HIS disciples by saying “The FATHER loves you because you love ME.” JESUS was giving HIS disciples a direct connection to the FATHER, who has all power.

• GOD wants me to know HE loves me.
• GOD wants me to know HE cares about me.
• GOD wants me to know HE wants the best for me.

Love seems to be rare these days. With the major focus on humans ripping each other apart with poisonous words, there is not much room for love. BUT GOD sees those who love JESUS. HE can see though all of the sin, anger and hatred to find those who are truly seeking HIM.

HE guides those HE loves with the HOLY SPIRIT and forgives all sin through HIS SON, JESUS. GOD is marvelous and I feel loved by HIM. I am no longer lonely because of GOD.

• Do you feel unloved?
• Do you feel dejected?
• Will you love JESUS so HE can open your eyes to how much GOD loves you?

Needing Help

Needing Help

John 15: ²⁶ “But when the Helper comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me. ²⁷ And you also will bear witness, because you have been with Me from the beginning.

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Sitting alone in my apartment was driving me crazy. I did not know many people in the town where I worked and was forced to commune with co-workers. I applied for a few positions away from that place, but found nothing. I felt doomed to stay there “forever.” I started my life over. I was no longer going to be the chief of parties. I wanted to learn about GOD.

• At one point, something changed inside me.
• At one point, I desired to follow GOD.
• At one point, my worries, fears, doubts and complaints were put aside for a new outlook on life.

JESUS gives HIS followers something to look for. HE sent the HOLY SPIRIT, who is the HELPER. JESUS also gave HIS followers purpose, namely to bear witness of HIM being our Savior.

• The HELPER will gives me words to comfort others.
• The HELPER fills me up with joy.
• The HELPER changes my mind from worry to victory.

Feeling all alone is sometimes overwhelming. I mean at every turn, there seemed to be a problem that I could not fix. BUT GOD wanted me to look to HIM for all of my answers. Instead of thinking “I” had to solve everything by “myself”, GOD sent me the HELPER.

When I couple myself to GOD, through the HOLY SPIRIT, I am filled with joy that makes no sense. I can then serve others and speak about JESUS in word and action. I always need help and I am grateful for the HOLY SPIRIT who lives inside me.

• Are you alone?
• Do you feel worthless?
• Will you accept your calling and allow GOD to speak to many people through you?
• Will you also stop thinking you are broken and let the perfect HOLY SPIRIT reside in you today?

What Love Looks Like

What Love Looks Like

John 14: ¹⁹ “A little while longer and the world will see Me no more, but you will see Me. Because I live, you will live also. ²⁰ At that day you will know that I am in My Father, and you in Me, and I in you. ²¹ He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him.”

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No longer could I mask the despair, I sat in the hallway. Things were going okay, but the future seemed cloudy. With no one to guide me, I sat and cried. It was Sunday morning and I was still up from the night before. “Want to go to church with us?” a few people asked. I had avoided the question for far too long. “Sure” I said. I went and felt better. But I stopped going soon after.  

• I once went to church looking for something, but did not find it.
• I once went to church looking for all of my problems to be cleared up, but the magic did not happen.
• I once went to church looking for things to immediately change in my life, but they stayed the same.

JESUS explains to HIS disciples that those who choose to follow the world will never see HIM again. But those who choose to follow HIM would be with HIM eternally. The belief that HE is the only need mankind has, creates a desire to follow HIS commandments.

• JESUS has shown me love, and I want to do the same.
• JESUS has given HIS live for me, and HE wants me to serve others so they will follow HIM to life.
• JESUS has provided a way back to HIM by showing love to those HE has given me.

“A new commandment I give to you, love one another as I have loved you.” This single word is easier said than done. In this selfish world of “me” showing love to someone is a rare occurrence. BUT GOD wants me to give up the “me” lifestyle and seek the lost HE brings to mind.

JESUS wants me to abide in HIM. The only way I can do this, is to show love and truly hope “that” person will give their life to HIM, not just by church attendance, but by eternal salvation. When I let go of JESUS, HE holds onto me with a tight grip. I am grateful for HIS love and mercy.

• Do you feel unloved?
• Has everyone abandoned you?
• Will you accept JESUS so HE can fill you up with IS love for others today?

You are not alone

You are not alone

John 14: ¹⁵ “If you love Me, keep My commandments. ¹⁶ And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever— ¹⁷ the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. ¹⁸ I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.

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As I walked around the huge crowd at the convention, I felt lonely. Everyone was smiling and laughing and I could not join in on the festivities, because I did not know anyone. Finally someone summoned me over. “Want to get drunk with us?” I went with them just to meet people. There was laughter and flirting. I felt lonelier.

• There have been many times when I felt lonely sitting in a crowd.
• There have been many times when I was around a crowd who were bashing “those” people and I felt lonely for not partaking.
• There have been many times when I sat in groups that were supposed to be talking about GOD, yet they ended up talking about humans, and I felt lonely.

JESUS knew those who follow HIM would be the minority. HE spoke the truth and was about to be killed for it. HE then says to HIS disciples, “The world does not know the SPIRIT of Truth.”  “The FATHER will give you a HELPER” was a promise JESUS made to those who love HIM.

• The HOLY SPIRIT lives in me because I believe I needed to be saved.
• The HOLY SPIRIT begs for forgiveness to the FATHER when I sin.
• The HOLY SPIRIT gives me the words of truth because HE is The TRUTH.

When I had no purpose, the world looked like a “fun” place. Sex, drunkenness, and wealth seemed like a truth I could buy into. BUT GOD wanted something different. HE wants me to speak the real truth about HIS SON.

Though the world my laugh at the words of salvation and ridicule even the very existence of the Most High GOD, I still persist in HIS purpose. At times I may get weary, BUT GOD gave me The HELPER who does not leave or forsake me. I am grateful for the HOLY SPIRIT who comforts me.

• Are you alone?
• Do you believe in GOD while those around you do not?
• Will you draw your power from the HOLY SPIRIT today and keep going on GOD’s plan?

No choice but to keep going

Luke 14: ³⁴ “Salt is good; but if the salt has lost its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? ³⁵ It is neither fit for the land nor for the dunghill, but men throw it out. He who has ears to hear, let him hear!”

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When I left a place I shouldn’t have been in the first place, I was nervous of my surroundings. I could see thugs looking at me so I increased my pace towards the bus. When the bus pulled off without me, I ran shouting “wait.” I kept running at the disappearing target, but I felt like giving up. After the fourth attempt, I finally caught up to the bus. I had no choice.

• There have been many times when I felt like giving up.
• There have been many times when I felt defeated.
• There have been many times when I felt distressed, distracted and dejected.

JESUS doesn’t minimize HIS words when HE speaks to the crowd. HE spoke directly to those who felt like giving up. HE mentions the value of salt which preserves, penetrates and permeates. But when salt loses its power to do so, then what good is it?

• GOD wants me to keep going especially when I don’t feel like it.
• GOD wants me to stop looking at the situation and look only at HIM.
• GOD wants me to keep the salt HE gave me so I can multiply it amongst many.

Saltiness is a multitude of things in my relationship with GOD. It’s bold, overpowering, sometimes subtle, and only a little is needed. It penetrates, melts and keeps things whole. It corrodes, burns and scratches, yet it soothes. But when I give up my saltiness, I can do none of the above. What am I giving my saltiness up for? Nothing.

I mean what am I trading it in for? Nothing. Where else would I turn? Nowhere. GOD wants me to keep my mind focused beyond the current situation and set my eyes permanently on HIM. In spite of the latest sin I just committed, GOD is my forgiver. HE guides me to the truth and that truth is JESUS.

• Do you feel like giving up?
• Are you only focused on money or the lack thereof?
• Is GOD minimized in your life right now because you think HIS grace is insufficient?
• Will you stop believing in lies and know GOD’s grace is sufficient and you are special to HIM?

Empty Hole

Luke 4: ⁴² Now when it was day, He departed and went into a deserted place. And the crowd sought Him and came to Him, and tried to keep Him from leaving them; ⁴³ but He said to them, “I must preach the kingdom of God to the other cities also, because for this purpose I have been sent.”⁴⁴ And He was preaching in the synagogues of Galilee.

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“What service project will we do?” was the question posed in a corporate meeting. “I know…” exclaimed a coworker. “Let’s help rehab a house of someone.” We chipped in our time, got some great photos and immediately posted them in the news as corporate heroes. Through all of the excitement, I felt empty.

• There were times when I tried to fill my empty heart with service projects.
• There were times when I tried to fill my empty heart with work.
• There were times when I tried to fill my empty heart with shallow relationships.

JESUS tried to escape from the crowd, yet they found HIM. HE explained to them that HE had a purpose. “I must preach the kingdom of GOD to the other cities also, because for this purpose I have been sent.” HE had healed this local crowd from all kinds of ailments and chased out demons but desired for them to understand HIS purpose so they would be whole.

• GOD wants me to live my life with HIS purpose.
• GOD wants me to preach the kingdom of GOD everywhere HE sends me.
• GOD wants me to proclaim JESUS as the Savior of the world who has already redeemed me.

When I spoke to someone about JESUS for the first time, I felt weird and nervous. With palpitating beats in my chest, I spoke about the kingdom of GOD and the conversation was not the best, but my heart did something strange, it was filled up.

Soon after, GOD gave me the courage to speak about my sins to people, especially the dark yucky ones. People who heard, believed that CHRIST could save them too. My heart was filled more and more to the point of overflowing. GOD gave me HIS purpose.

• Is your heart empty?
• Are you trying to fill your empty heart with service, business, empty relationships or self-medication to addiction?
• Will you seek GOD and allow HIM to guide you in preaching HIS kingdom to someone today?

One of you

Mark 14: ¹⁷ In the evening He came with the twelve. ¹⁸ Now as they sat and ate, Jesus said, “Assuredly, I say to you, one of you who eats with Me will betray Me.”

¹⁹ And they began to be sorrowful, and to say to Him one by one, “Is it I?” And another said, “Is it I?”

²⁰ He answered and said to them, “It is one of the twelve, who dips with Me in the dish. ²¹ The Son of Man indeed goes just as it is written of Him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been good for that man if he had never been born.”

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Giggling in the coat closet, the class surrounded us. We were supposed to go in, kiss and come out with cheers, as stated by the rules of the game. Before I went in, the door to the room opened up and everyone scrambled to get back to their seats. One person changed the whole dynamics of what was going on.

• I have been affected by one person.
• I have had my course altered by one person.
• I have tried to go in one direction but at times only one person kept me from going there.

“One of you who eats with ME will betray ME” said JESUS to HIS disciples. These words changed the atmosphere from peaceful to anguish. One person’s behavior affected many, unfortunately in a negative way.

• JESUS wants me to affect people in a positive way if I can.
• JESUS wants me to spread HIS message of grace when I can.
• JESUS wants me to HIS disciple while I can.

The power of “one” begins and ends with me. I have to make a choice to spread GOD’s message of love and grace in places where there may not be anyone who will accept HIM. GOD wants me to have the courage to rely on HIS power to transform.

HE doesn’t need me to try harder, in fact HE’d rather me just be willing to sit in the presence of those who HE sends me to. JESUS says “one person can affect the world just as I did and that person is you.”

• What is GOD saying to you?
• Is GOD putting something big in front of you and you are scared to do it?
• Can you accept GOD’s plan for you and begin affecting people whit HIS love today?

Alone

Mark 4: ³³ And with many such parables He spoke the word to them as they were able to hear it. ³⁴ But without a parable He did not speak to them. And when they were alone, He explained all things to His disciples.

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Waving at people on the convention floor was the norm for my coworkers, but not me. This was my first convention and I did not know anyone. It was time for dinner and everyone made plans with one another. I ate in my room.

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• Sometimes I can be in a crowd and feel alone.
• Sometimes I can open my mouth and say something to people and still feel alone.
• Sometimes I can sit in a room with another person and feel more alone than when I am by myself.

Being alone can sometimes feel devastating, especially when I want to be around those who appreciate what I am doing and saying or even better, know who I am. GOD spoke in parables or analogies and did not speak directly to the crowd. But when HE was alone with HIS disciples HE spoke directly to them.

• GOD sometimes takes me to a place so HE can be alone with me.
• GOD sometimes wants to speak directly to me so HE moves me out of the crowd.
• GOD sometimes desires for me to quiet down instead of screaming while I am alone with HIM.

Maturing to understand “alone” time is important to GOD. HE wants me to spend some very important time with HIM to see HIS power on a daily basis. The world’s worries can be noisy and deafen me to HIS voice. It seems like the harder I try in life, the more GOD wants to spend time with me. HE sets me down besides still waters and speaks directly to me with HIS promises.

• Do you feel alone?
• Are you worried and feel alone?
• Can you remove your worries for a moment and listen to GOD’s voice through HIS word today?