A Place of Mercy

A Place of Mercy

Exodus 25: ¹⁷ “You shall make a mercy seat of pure gold; two and a half cubits shall be its length and a cubit and a half its width. ¹⁸ And you shall make two cherubim of gold; of hammered work you shall make them at the two ends of the mercy seat. ¹⁹ Make one cherub at one end, and the other cherub at the other end; you shall make the cherubim at the two ends of it of one piece with the mercy seat. ²⁰ And the cherubim shall stretch out their wings above, covering the mercy seat with their wings, and they shall face one another; the faces of the cherubim shall be toward the mercy seat. ²¹ You shall put the mercy seat on top of the ark, and in the ark you shall put the Testimony that I will give you. ²² And there I will meet with you, and I will speak with you from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubim which are on the ark of the Testimony, about everything which I will give you in commandment to the children of Israel.

 

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GOD gave specific instructions regarding building a mercy seat that would be the top of the Ark of the Testimony. HE also said HE would meet Moses there and any high priest.

 

My Observations:

• GOD planned out HIS mercy.
• GOD had a specific way HE wanted to deal with the mercy of the people.
• GOD was making the children of Israel aware that they needed mercy.

 

Specific instructions required specific skills that would be assigned later in the process. GOD focused on the need for HIS mercy. HE knew humans would try to make up their own rules and would leave HIM out of their plans. HE developed a process that required the admission of sin to receive mercy.

 

GOD still requires us to admit we need JESUS for our salvation and for daily decision making. If we let the world dictate our direction, we would not admit we need GOD. Only one person could fit on the mercy seat. GOD would speak from above to the person sitting on the seat.

 

Challenge:

• Why does GOD remind Moses about the mercy seat that would fit on the Ark of the Testimony?
• Have you learned GOD’s process for receiving mercy?
• Have you asked GOD for mercy before asking for things that may take you away from HIM?

Song of Triumph Part 3 – No One like GOD

Song of Triumph Part 3 – No One like GOD

Exodus 15: ¹¹ “Who is like You, O Lord, among the gods?
Who is like You, glorious in holiness,
Fearful in praises, doing wonders?
¹² You stretched out Your right hand;
The earth swallowed them.
¹³ You in Your mercy have led forth
The people whom You have redeemed;
You have guided them in Your strength
To Your holy habitation.

 

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After the Egyptian army was destroyed by GOD closing up the Red Sea, Moses and the children of Israel sang. This third stanza was about GOD.

 

My Observations:

• Moses recognized that humans try to be gods but they cannot compare to the true GOD.
• Moses points out GOD’s holiness, HIS deserving of healthy praiseworthy fear, and HIS power to do wonders.
• Moses ends the stanza with GOD dismantling the mindset of humans thinking they can do anything above HIM.

 

There is no one like GOD! HE is worthy of all praise! Only HE is holy and HE can do anything, anytime, anywhere. GOD takes down enemies who try to place themselves over one another with the pride of the Enemy. This song speaks about GOD’s triumphant power.

 

Moses also speaks about redemption. GOD rescued HIS people out of Egypt and does the same for you and me. HE rescues us out of a mindset that keeps us as slaves to the world, blinding us from GOD’s tremendous power. GOD was leading them to HIS holy habitation.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about this part of the song?
• Have you marveled over GOD’s incredible power over your life lately?
• What amazes you about GOD’s power, holiness and redemption?

Singled Out

Singled Out

Genesis 44: ¹⁴ So Judah and his brothers came to Joseph’s house, and he was still there; and they fell before him on the ground. ¹⁵ And Joseph said to them, “What deed is this you have done? Did you not know that such a man as I can certainly practice divination?”

 

¹⁶ Then Judah said, “What shall we say to my lord? What shall we speak? Or how shall we clear ourselves? God has found out the iniquity of your servants; here we are, my lord’s slaves, both we and he also with whom the cup was found.”

 

¹⁷ But he said, “Far be it from me that I should do so; the man in whose hand the cup was found, he shall be my slave. And as for you, go up in peace to your father.”

 

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Their worse fear had come true. Before the journey began, Judah assured Israel that nothing would happen to Benjamin. Now all eleven brothers were in front of Joseph again, this time with serious accusations. Judah volunteered all of them to become slaves of Joseph. But Joseph singled out Benjamin.

 

My Observations:

• Joseph knew how precious he and Benjamin were to Israel.
• Joseph took the special thing from his brothers, namely Benjamin.
• Joseph had no intention of making Benjamin a slave.

 

Adversity shows the real character of a person in his or her reaction to the situation. Judah responded well because he had no explanation for the situation. All he could do was surrender. Same with you and me. We may fight to stay the same, yet we need to surrender to GOD.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about the conversation between Judah and Joseph?
• Have you ever gone through something and wondered “Why me?”
• Are you prepared for GOD to grow you and can you see the current situation is part of HIS growth plan?

Feared Favor

Feared Favor

Genesis 42: ²⁵ Then Joseph gave a command to fill their sacks with grain, to restore every man’s money to his sack, and to give them provisions for the journey. Thus he did for them. ²⁶ So they loaded their donkeys with the grain and departed from there. ²⁷ But as one of them opened his sack to give his donkey feed at the encampment, he saw his money; and there it was, in the mouth of his sack. ²⁸ So he said to his brothers, “My money has been restored, and there it is, in my sack!” Then their hearts failed them and they were afraid, saying to one another, “What is this that God has done to us?”

 

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GOD gave Joseph a dream that his family would one day bow to him. It was not Joseph’s desire, rather a prophecy from GOD. Joseph’s brothers wanted to kill him over jealousy, but sold him into slavery. After being thrown in a pit and prison, Joseph was made Governor of Egypt. He gave a command to a group of people to return their money, give them food and provide feed for the animals.

 

My Observations:

• Joseph showed extreme grace for his brothers who wanted to murder him.
• Joseph’s brothers had hidden guilt, but after discovering they left Egypt without paying for the food, they believed they would be labeled as thieves.
• Joseph’s brothers could not see favor, possibly because of their guilty and dishonest past.

 

Fear struck the brothers as they found their money they brough to pay for the food. They were already called “spies” by Joseph, but they did not know that it was he who had the funds returned to them. The remainder of the trip home had to be terrifying. Over and over they talked to each other saying “What is this that GOD has done to us?”

 

They may have felt that GOD was repaying them for their attempted murder and hatred of their brother. They probably could not sleep because they feared GOD would zap them at some point if they moved forward or the Egyptians would get them for stealing if they went back. There was no comfort in the favor they received.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD tell Moses about the brother’s reaction to Joseph’s secret favor?
• Have you ever felt guilty and could not believe that you deserved favor?
• Would you believe that GOD is showing you favor even though you don’t feel that you deserve it?

Mercy

Mercy

Genesis 9: ¹² And God said: “This is the sign of the covenant which I make between Me and you, and every living creature that is with you, for perpetual generations: ¹³ I set My rainbow in the cloud, and it shall be for the sign of the covenant between Me and the earth. ¹⁴ It shall be, when I bring a cloud over the earth, that the rainbow shall be seen in the cloud; ¹⁵ and I will remember My covenant which is between Me and you and every living creature of all flesh; the waters shall never again become a flood to destroy all flesh. ¹⁶ The rainbow shall be in the cloud, and I will look on it to remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is on the earth.” ¹⁷ And God said to Noah, “This is the sign of the covenant which I have established between Me and all flesh that is on the earth.”

 

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After wiping out all living things, only eight people remained. Noah, his wife, his sons and their wives were given the blessing to be fruitful and multiply for the purpose of GOD. BUT GOD knew this blessing would not last very long. HE saw the sins of humans and knew they would turn from HIM. HE created a reminder for HIMSELF that HE placed at the end of storms. HE created a rainbow.

 

My Observations:

• GOD shows incredible restraint when it comes to how HE handles human sin.
• GOD gave HIMSELF a reminder that HE would not wipe out humans, rather save them.
• GOD showed us mercy that is beyond all understanding.

 

Officially, GOD turned over the earth to humans. HE would no longer have a Garden on earth that would grow itself. Animals would fear humans and sometimes attack. Humans were given control and would need help guiding each other to listen to GOD. But culture would get in the way.

 

Culture tries to steal rainbows and give it a false meaning to fit their agenda. BUT GOD uses it for an entirely different purpose. HE is using the rainbow like a set of brakes on a car. HE stops HIMSELF from wrath and shows mercy instead.

 

JESUS, in a sense, can be that rainbow. The HOLY SPIRIT, who lives inside believers, may see and experience the hurt of sin. HE begs to JESUS in utterances we do not understand. JESUS stands before the FATHER on our behalf. Mercy is granted. GOD remembers and provides mercy!

 

Challenge

• Why do you think GOD told Moses about the promise HE made to HIMSELF?
• Have you ever needed mercy?
• Have you taken time to consider how much mercy GOD has shown you over your life?

Show Mercy

Show Mercy

Jude 1: ²² Show mercy toward those who have doubts; ²³ save others by snatching them out of the fire; and to others show mercy mixed with fear, but hate their very clothes, stained by their sinful lusts.

 

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After passing the car that was going at a high speed, I felt satisfied. I “won” the competition that the other driver never knew he or she was competing. I eased back from my high speed but still went along at a nice clip. Miles later, I saw a car following me. Police lights went flashing behind. “You were speeding and I should write you a ticket” but I am going to let you off this time” were the shocking words of mercy.

 

• I was clearly in the wrong.
• I deserved to get a judgment against me.
• I received mercy because I was told what I did was wrong and I was let go.

 

Jude gives his final instruction to believers. He tells everyone to “Show mercy.” He also knew how difficult this would be. To state the problem and to state the grace that is being shown is hard to do when the situation is highly emotional. Jude mentions the stakes by saying the believer would be “snatching them out of the fire.”

 

My Observations:

• GOD showed mercy to me by letting me know I am a sinner saved y HIS grace.
• GOD could have held everything against me, but instead HE saved me in spite of me.
• GOD does not like the sins I do, so HE looks inside my heart and cleans it with HIS compassion.

 

Showing mercy takes courage. I mean, the first part of mercy is to let him or her know the problem, then the grace. Mercy can be extended without expectation that he or she will accept it or change in front of your eyes. GOD has a plan.

 

HE sees the problem and guides people who need mercy to places that are broken. HE then opens their eyes to the brokenness and helps him or her ask for mercy versus demanding it. Jude’s advice is to be wise and be ready to show mercy when the moment is right. I am glad GOD shows mercy to you and me.

 

Challenge

• Who does the writer recommend to show mercy to?
• Have you ever been the benefactor of mercy?
• Will you ask GOD for the right “graceful” words to carefully explain the problem and to extend mercy for the sake of growing GOD’s kingdom today?

Just When We Need It

Just When We Need It

Hebrews 4: ¹⁴ Let us, then, hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we have a great High Priest who has gone into the very presence of God—Jesus, the Son of God. ¹⁵ Our High Priest is not one who cannot feel sympathy for our weaknesses. On the contrary, we have a High Priest who was tempted in every way that we are, but did not sin. ¹⁶ Let us have confidence, then, and approach God's throne, where there is grace. There we will receive mercy and find grace to help us just when we need it.

 

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Having come out of the trial, I felt I needed a vacation from being “good.” I let down my guards and decided I could sin a little here and a little there. Soon I was back to old habits, never once praying to, nor communicating with GOD. But then troubles hit again.

 

• I wondered if GOD was punishing me for something I did.
• I also wondered if HE would forgive me “this” time.
• I also wondered if GOD would reach a limit on HIS forgiveness and just get tired of me coming to HIM with the same request.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, explains that JESUS is different than the human high priests. They, being human, have fallen into sin. JESUS was tempted in every way and never sinned. He explains that we can hold onto our faith firmly because JESUS provides mercy and grace.

 

My Observations

• There is no sin too great that GOD will not forgive.
• I can approach GOD with all my sins and be forgiven.
• JESUS knows what I am going through and sympathizes with me because of what HE went through.

 

GOD is the ultimate forgiver versus the ultimate punisher. I mean, sometimes I get scared of GOD, especially when I sin. I think I may not get “my” way. Consequently, I also think I can manipulate GOD into giving me “my” way by temporarily being good. HE knows that too.

 

GOD sees me different than I see myself. HE loves me and is concerned about me. HE grants me mercy when I should receive the ultimate punishment. HE pours out grace when I do not deserve it and HE seems to do it just when I need it. I thank GOD for HIS grace and mercy. It is always right on time!

 

Challenge

• How does the writer portray JESUS?
• Have you ever been in a situation where no one sympathized with you?
• Have you ever been blamed by “everyone” around you?
• Will you give your life to JESUS and learn about truly being forgiven so you can experience HIS everlasting grace and mercy today?

Encouragement Assignment

 Encouragement Assignment

2 Corinthians 4: God in his mercy has given us this work to do, and so we do not become discouraged. ² We put aside all secret and shameful deeds; we do not act with deceit, nor do we falsify the word of God. In the full light of truth we live in God's sight and try to commend ourselves to everyone's good conscience.

 

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Things seemed to be going wrong all over the place. My life had become fodder for a sad song. I looked at the world as if it owed me an answer to the question “Why me?’ I was thinking this as I walked back to the dorm in the wee hours or the morning.

 

“Would you like to go to church with us?” was the horrifying question asked to me. They did not realize I was just getting in as they were going out! “No thank you” I replied. I  wrestled with that decision the rest of the day.

 

• My life was centered on me.
• Even my service to others was based on me.
• My “me-centered” world had more downs than ups.

 

“GOD in HS mercy has given us this work to do” is something amazing Paul states to everyone. He even says that people can put aside things that would be disgraceful and turn to something with true value.

 

My Observations

• GOD saw my shameful sins and chose me to be HIS messenger anyway.
• GOD wants me to keep HIS word true and focused on JESUS.
• GOD wants me to think about others so I can serve in HIS sight well, while also serving people in good conscience.

 

Encouraging people when I am down seems ridiculous. I mean, when I feel like I need to be served, GOD gives me “work to do.” But what if I’m on empty or broke? GOD doesn’t want me to be phony about my pain. But HE does want me to live my life with purpose.

 

HE lets me see other people who are in pain so I can encourage them to see HIM. Encouraging others, encourages me. It give me the ability to lay aside hidden sin and satisfies the urge to have the “Why me?’ question answered. I am glad GOD gives me purpose  and I hope all who read are encouraged!

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer use “mercy” when describing what GOD did?
• Have you ever been discouraged and someone popped into your life who needed encouragement?
• What is your life’s purpose?
• Will you accept GOD’s assignment and look beyond your current circumstances to encourage someone today?

Innovation Interrogation

Innovation Interrogation

John 9: ¹⁷ They said to the blind man again, “What do you say about Him because He opened your eyes?”

He said, “He is a prophet.”

¹⁸ But the Jews did not believe concerning him, that he had been blind and received his sight, until they called the parents of him who had received his sight. ¹⁹ And they asked them, saying, “Is this your son, who you say was born blind? How then does he now see?”

²⁰ His parents answered them and said, “We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind; ²¹ but by what means he now sees we do not know, or who opened his eyes we do not know. He is of age; ask him. He will speak for himself.” ²² His parents said these things because they feared the Jews, for the Jews had agreed already that if anyone confessed that He was Christ, he would be put out of the synagogue. ²³ Therefore his parents said, “He is of age; ask him.”

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In the meeting I asked one person for suggestions. “Brilliant!” I exclaimed to their answer. I asked follow on questions to get them to think of new ideas. When another person tried to add their remarks, I replied “Thanks, but not right now.” Then I added, “Can you stay after the meeting?” knowing I wanted to ask questions about their strange expenses.

• There have been times when I asked questions of people, knowing fully that I did not believe them.
• There have been times when I have put together a line of questions that forced people to prove themselves.
• There have been times when I sought after the guilt of a person.

The church leaders were getting nowhere with the healed blind man so they brought in his parents. They hoped his parents would say, “This man is not our son” or “He never was blind” but they confirmed he was their son who was born blind. His parents feared the church leader’s power to make them homeless and ostracized.

• GOD wants me to seek the innocence in people in order to bring them to HIM.
• GOD wants me to look at people with grace so they can grow in HIM.
• GOD wants me to add to people versus taking away from them.

Innovative questions assume expertise, wisdom and capability. Interrogation questions assume guilt, wrong motive and need for correction. GOD wants me to be in the innovative realm as much as possible. HE is the creator and has given me the ability to do the same on a much smaller scale.

It takes patience, grace and mercy to think innovatively. GOD wants me to build people up instead of trying to tear them down. I ask GOD for help in this and I am grateful HE gives mercy.

• Are you asking interrogation type questions to people around you?
• Are you seeking their guilt so you can look better?
• Will you start asking innovative questions so people can grow in the way GOD wants them to?

Looking in the Right Place

Psalm 123: ¹ I lift up my eyes to you,
    to you who sit enthroned in heaven.
² As the eyes of slaves look to the hand of their master,
    as the eyes of a female slave look to the hand of her mistress,
so our eyes look to the Lord our God,
    till he shows us his mercy.

³ Have mercy on us, Lord, have mercy on us,
    for we have endured no end of contempt.
⁴ We have endured no end
    of ridicule from the arrogant,
    of contempt from the proud.

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One request and one request alone is what I noticed in this passage, “Have mercy on us.” The writer of this Psalm describes the people who are in prayer as “slaves” which I find interesting as well. Here is what I pondered.

• I should look at GOD from a different viewpoint of being elevated instead of being on the same plane.
• I should look to heaven for my cure rather than those around me.
• I should look at my approach to GOD subtracting demands and adding humility.

The request from the writer was not specific at all. It did not have a timeframe, a dollar amount nor a person to get rid of. It just says “Have mercy on us.” This takes all of the control out of the prayer and puts it in GOD’s mighty hand.

• GOD do what YOU will, but show us YOUR mercy.
• GOD flex YOUR might, but show us YOUR mercy.
• GOD provide in YOUR way, but show us YOUR mercy.

Arrogance and pride are the contempt of the LORD. HE threw Satan out of heaven because of Satan’s pride. GOD sees the seed of HIS deliverance and it cannot contain my arrogance upon reception. I cannot boast or brag that I deserve GOD’s deliverance, I can only say “HE had mercy on me.”

I know I have heard the preachers say “GOD is your friend” and “JESUS is my brother” but I am careful to know I need to lift them up and treat the FATHER, SON and HOLY SPIRIT with respect rather than any old way. The right place to look at GOD is “up” for HE knows every situation and is in control.

• Are you treating GOD as common?
• Do you think HE is against you?
• Will you elevate GOD to the right place and let HIM “show HIS mercy” on you?
• Will you drop all arrogance and pride and flow with HIS plan?

Choose what to say

Job:16: ⁴ I also could speak like you,
    if you were in my place;
I could make fine speeches against you
    and shake my head at you.
⁵ But my mouth would encourage you;
    comfort from my lips would bring you relief.

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No wonder GOD says “Be slow to anger” because when I am angry at someone I find it very hard to provide words of comfort. “Serves you right” comes out of my mouth instead of “Things will be fine.” BUT GOD says do something different.

• GOD says to me “Show mercy to others as I have shown mercy to you.”
• GOD says to me “Pray for your enemies for I will repay.”
• GOD says to me “Love your neighbors as you love yourself.

He would rather have me focus on what is right rather than what is wrong. HE wants my words to be full of encouragement rather than poison. Blessings should me my words of comfort.

• Are you complaining about someone?
• How many of your words contain poison on a daily basis?
• Can you make the choice to say encouraging words to someone today?
• Will you ask GOD for the right words to say?

GOD hears me

Exodus 2:²³ During that long period, the king of Egypt died. The Israelites groaned in their slavery and cried out, and their cry for help because of their slavery went up to God. ²⁴ God heard their groaning and he remembered his covenant with Abraham, with Isaac and with Jacob. ²⁵ So God looked on the Israelites and was concerned about them.

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“One more mile to go” was the thought in my tired mind. This wasn’t marathon training rather it was my commute home from school. We got off the third bus of our commute and instead of waiting on the last one we decided to walk.  As we began our journey across a massive grocer parking lot we were met with a gang of hoodlums.

We looked at each other, said where we would meet and took off “zigzag” running in opposite directions. Track practice had paid off for us. We joined each other after I was sure the police were on their way.

• There are times where I will face adversity.
• There are times when things will seem like everything is going wrong.
• There are times when I will be sure “this is going to end very badly.”

I used to ask why GOD allows so many problems to happen to me.  I mean shouldn’t I be problem free since I believe in HIS SON for my salvation?  Now that I have matured I realize it’s because of my belief that I will face adversity!  GOD knows this life will be difficult and HE is there for me.

• GOD hears me when I am scared.
• GOD hears me when I am worried.
• GOD hears me when I feel like giving up.

GOD knows exactly what I’m going through.  HIS hand of protection forges my faith in HIM because HE has delivered me time after time.  HE hears my groans and rescues me!

• Are you facing adversity?
• Do you feel like crying out for help?
• Do you realize GOD hears you?
• Can you understand that GOD has a plan for you on the other side of this trial? 

GOD is no longer mad at me.

Genesis 8: ²¹ The Lord smelled the pleasing aroma and said in his heart: “Never again will I curse the ground because of humans, even though every inclination of the human heart is evil from childhood. And never again will I destroy all living creatures, as I have done.

²² “As long as the earth endures,
seedtime and harvest,
cold and heat,
summer and winter,
day and night
will never cease.”

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Plastering was something I had never done before but this particular summer, it was my job.  I had to carry heavy bags of tools or plaster mix or boulders, well it seemed like boulders. I was constantly doing things wrong that the owner would have to correct me. I think I broke stuff and had to take numerous breaks because I got a splinter on my elbow or somewhere!

After my first day I didn’t want to come back but I said “thank you” and the owner seemed delighted. “See you tomorrow” he said. You mean he wants me to come back? I’m pitiful.

• Sometimes I think I have messed up royally with GOD.
• Sometimes I think my clumsiness in life translates to GOD being disgusted with me.
• Sometimes I think GOD is mad at me and that’s why I’m not getting my way.

GOD sees my pitiful attempts to serve HIM and others and is delighted by what HE sees.  I’m not speaking about the times that I try too hard or when I’m feeling ultra-religious and judging others. GOD sees when I have very little to offer and I give that up for HIM.

• GOD knows my heart is evil yet loves when I try to serve HIM.
• GOD knows every inclination I have is against HIM yet HE loved me enough to die for me.
• GOD knows I was born and raised in sin yet HE has a plan that’s great for me.

HE provides food, great weather and enables me to sleep and wake to a new day. HIS love for me will never cease and it’s a great feeling of relief.

• Do you think GOD is mad at you?
• Are you feeling like you have not reached your potential?
• Can you recognize GOD is faithful to you?
• Won’t you realize HE does not go back on HIS great plan HE has for you?

Here’s mud in your eye!

James 2: ¹² Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, ¹³ because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.

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Dangerously close is an understatement as to where my bumper was to the car in front of me. We were all traveling at a high rate of… well let’s just say we were really moving! Then “that” guy pulled up in the next lane. I recognized the shiftiness on his face and the movements of his car showing he wanted to “get in front of me!”

I wasn’t having it. I nudge my car closer and closer to the car in front of me and as he backed off I had a sense of victory. Later, in that same drive to work, my exit was approaching and I had to merge into another lane. Most would not let me in and now I created a traffic jam behind me. Someone was “gracious” enough to wave me on.

• When I judge people I will be judged by the same measure no matter who I’m judging.
• When I judge people I will be sentenced to their sentence.
• When I judge people I will be embarrassed when I am being judged in front of everyone.

I have said this many times before… “We are all in the mud, throwing mud at each other, saying you have mud on you!” How disgraceful it is for me to act without mercy. No wonder my ministry is weak at times. I’m amazed that GOD would even listen to me at all.

• GOD wants me to speak to “that” person as if that person were me.
• GOD wants me to act like I am “that” person and then I name the sentence.
• GOD wants me to be merciful to “that” person so HE will show mercy on me.

“But I’m saved” popped into my head, I’m supposed to judge people. Well, not quite. My meal should consist of a healthy ration of love and a heaping dose of mercy with a sprinkle of correction done in love. GOD knows my heart and HE knows “that” person’s heart and HE says choose grace and mercy to both and everything will be fine.

• Are you judging someone?
• Are you really trying hard to get you way?
• Do you realize you may be trying to reduce GOD down to your judgment?
• Can you let GOD show judgment on whom HE wants to show judgment and mercy to whom HE wants to show mercy?

I was made for this!

Ephesians 2: ⁸ For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith —and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— ⁹ not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

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Lying, cheating and stealing is where I found myself at one point in my life.  I mean it was harmless to say “fine” when in reality I was hurting inside so I wasn’t really lying right? Also I was working to pay for college so I didn’t have time to really write “that” paper so I asked someone to do it for me but that isn’t really cheating right?

And the company I worked for made billions so they expect for me to copy flyers at work and staple books together. It was for a “good cause” so they won’t mind and that’s not stealing right?

• No matter how good my intentions are my sin bubbles out of me.
• No matter how I try to hide my sins GOD can still see what I am doing.
• No matter how much I try to justify my actions I am still responsible for my sins.

One day I sat in my apartment and I looked at my life.  I was used to “stretching” the truth to get my way or stay out of trouble. I was used to “taking short cuts” in lieu of doing the work. I was used to getting some service for free otherwise known as “the hook up.” Where was I? Was I made for this? NO!

• GOD saved me in the middle of my sin because of HIS grace.
• GOD saved me to do “good works.”
• GOD saved me as a gift to me and doesn’t want me to waste HIS gift of grace.

Good works do not save me rather I was made for GOD’s good works. HIS grace and mercy makes me look at “my” life rather than looking at others and I definitely see I am not worthy of HIS grace but I accept HIS gift wholeheartedly. I can celebrate with others by doing good works instead of complaining about what people are saying or doing.

I can tell people about the love of GOD’s SON, JESUS who saved any who believe. That’s what I was made for!

• Where are you?
• What sin is holding you back from doing GOD’s “good works?”
• Do you believe in GOD’s grace for you or are you trying to work for HIS favor?
• Won’t you celebrate HIS grace by forgetting your sin and focusing others on HIS love?

Does the Bible say “Forgive AND Forget?”

2 Corinthians: ⁷ Now instead, you ought to forgive and comfort him, so that he will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. ⁸ I urge you, therefore, to reaffirm your love for him. ⁹ Another reason I wrote you was to see if you would stand the test and be obedient in everything.

¹⁰ Anyone you forgive, I also forgive. And what I have forgiven—if there was anything to forgive—I have forgiven in the sight of Christ for your sake,

¹¹ in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.

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Way back in third grade I had a fight that I didn’t start. I remember. Also one time there was a bully who tried to beat me up. I remember. Oh yes I remember the hoods who robbed me and I remember the stuff “those” people did to me.  How can I “forget” what they did?

• The longer I hold on to past issues the harder it is to forgive.
• The more I replay the malefaction in my mind the harder it is to forgive.
• The more comfortable I feel being a victim the harder it is to forgive.

I asked myself “where in the world the Bible says to “forget” the sin someone has committed towards me” and I honestly couldn’t find it. The Bible does tell me over and over to forgive. Satan wants me to replay the problem over and over so I will continue to be mad and hold a grudge.

• Forgiveness is a conscious act of mercy and both parties are well aware of the issue.
• Forgiveness is an action that enables me to release the plight of living in the past.
• Forgiveness is a weapon I can use against Satan’s attack to drive “us” apart.

GOD forgets the sins I have done.  In fact HE removes my sin as far as the east is from the west. HE says “I will remember their sins no more” as HE pours out HIS love on me. This is great! I mean I am truly forgiven and GOD doesn’t walk around pouting and waiting on me to make a mistake.

I still remember the sins others have committed but GOD wants me to not dwell on the past. Forgive the person as an action and time will help me forget.

• Can you forgive “that” person?
• Will you look at forgiveness as an act of mercy?
• Even if the person will not own up to the issue, can you be bigger and forgive them?
• Can you use forgiveness as a weapon against the divisive attack on you?

Thanks for the “gift!”

Romans 6: ²² But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life. ²³ For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

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Naïve and impressionable and scared, I took on my first career.  I had no idea what a corporate structure was about and I really had nothing tangible to offer. When people requested things from me, I looked like deer in headlights! I had to learn everything.

One day my boss walked in my office and said “I’m sending you to training.” “What a gift” I thought. I’m getting trained without asking for it! To this day I am grateful for my first supervisor. I mean, he recognized something in me that others seem to discount.

• GOD has declared that any sin I commit deserves death for the sentence.
• GOD has declared that even my birth is conceived out of sin.
• GOD has declared that I was sentenced to be separated from HIS love eternally and to face HIS ever increasing wrath forever.

Wait, you mean even my birth which I had nothing to do with, declares me a sinner? Yes!  BUT GOD decided to give me a gift.

• GOD’s gift of love is HIS SON who took on my punishment.
• GOD’s gift of love is HIS SON who died in my place.
• GOD’s gift of love is HIS SON who is now alive and believing in HIM saves me.

GOD did it all! HE saw I would never choose HIM yet HE chose me. HE freed me from “having to” sin, in other words HE freed me from being a slave to sin and its consequences. Wait a minute, “you still sin” you say. Yes but now I have a choice whereas before I only had sin and death.

I can choose righteousness over sin and on many occasions I do. Sometimes my selfishness gets in the way but GOD has me growing daily. HE has truly given me a “gift” which is eternal life.

• Do you feel you have no options in life but to follow sin?
• Do you feel like giving up trying to please GOD thinking HIS standards are too high?
• Can you believe HE has already taken care of your life and has a wonderful plan for you?
• Will you stop acting like a slave to sin and give your entire life to following GOD’s ways?

GOD doesn’t have poison ears!

John 4: ²⁷ Just then his disciples returned and were surprised to find him talking with a woman. But no one asked, “What do you want?” or “Why are you talking with her?”

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“Hello, how is your day going?” someone said to me. But this wasn’t any old “someone,” it was a very crafty person who had said some nasty things in the past. “I wonder what they meant by that?” I thought to myself. For the rest of the day I went around with my guards higher than ever. Everyone was a suspect and every word was scrutinized.

• When I have been hurt poison can enter my heart.
• When my heart has poison in it then my tongue will produce venom.
• When my heart has poison in it then my ears listen for poison.

Some people just can’t do or say anything right. Ask my family and they will tell you! When my ears are listening for something poison I will find it. I guess it stems from being a leader in a poisonous environment. Or perhaps it comes from hurt from the past. Maybe it’s just that the person is taking a dig at me, either way, my ears will pick up the words and the fight is on.

• GOD wants me to be ready to show grace at all times otherwise I won’t be shown grace.
• GOD wants me to listen to people without my prejudice filters.
• GOD wants me to hear “beyond” the words that are said so that I can pray earnestly for that person.

Forgiveness, grace and mercy don’t come easily from me. When I have my mind set that the “opposition” is a schemer and not worth my time, I put my defense mechanism up and capture their words as being poison. Sometimes I’m right and sometimes I’m wrong isn’t good enough for GOD.

JESUS listened to the Samaritan woman without the prejudice of race or gender. HE knew she was a sinner and listened with the intent to heal her no matter what she said. That’s hard for me to do, but quite possible. Let “it” go or pray or just ignore the statement while throwing the harmful words into the “forget about it” pile are ways to overcome my judgmental ears.

I must view the person like GOD views them, namely “forgiven.” Yes I should be wise as serpents BUT GOD also says be harmless as doves.

• Are you blaming someone?
• Can “that” person say or do anything right?
• Are you quick to judge some people because of your hurt?
• Won’t you let your guards down a little to see the other person needs GOD as much as you?
• Can you ask GOD to clean your heart so your words and “thoughts” will be pure?

Stand Firm!

Luke 21: ¹⁷ Everyone will hate you because of me. ¹⁸ But not a hair of your head will perish. ¹⁹ Stand firm, and you will win life.

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Have you ever had one of those days when it feels like “everyone” hates you and what you stand for? Well I have had many days like that.  It seemed like the very mention of my name would drive rage in others.  I guess on those days I should get my battle gear on and come out swinging right? Wrong!

• Standing firm for GOD means giving an extra dose of mercy when I have the power to crush my enemy like a grape.
• Standing firm for GOD means showing more love to those who take it and trample it to the ground.
• Standing firm for GOD means praying more for the person who has a bad attitude to prosper instead of wanting their demise.

On those days when “everyone” hates me, I actually have to do a self-inventory to see if I have in fact done something stupid, mean or arrogant. I still may have so my prayer is for “that” person and for me.

GOD has kept HIS promise so far. Not a hair on my head has been harmed and HE has kept my eternal future secure. HE wants me to focus on the true finish line instead of the changing circumstances of the day. 

I can’t even remember the trouble I faced last year because of the troubles I face today! It means that I should not worry about “this” circumstance because GOD brought me through the last one. GOD wants me to “stand firm” HIS way and I will win LIFE.

• Are you having one of those days?
• Does it seem like the “good” you do for others is misinterpreted as picking a fight?
• Are your efforts of love not being recognized?
• Can you realize that GOD sees your efforts and loves you with supreme love?

I tried to disown GOD but it didn’t work.

Luke 15:  ¹¹ Jesus continued: “There was a man who had two sons. ¹² The younger one said to his father, ‘Father, give me my share of the estate.’ So he divided his property between them.

   ¹³ “Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. ¹⁴ After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in that whole country, and he began to be in need. ¹⁵ So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. ¹⁶ He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything.

   ¹⁷ “When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! ¹⁸ I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. ¹⁹ I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.’ ²⁰ So he got up and went to his father.

   “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.

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“Fun” was my goal and GOD was my barrier. HE had all these “rules” and it seemed like life was going to be miserable following HIM.  What boredom! The goody, goody two shoes people seemed to get trampled on while others seem to get away with whatever they wanted to. I know… I’ll just do what I want to do. I mean GOD won’t mind will HE?

• It’s easy to disown GOD until a real problem hits.
• It’s easy to tell GOD ‘I don’t need YOU’ when “I” think everything is going well.
• It’s easy to let sin creep into my life when my relationship with GOD is weak.            

Just like the son in this story, I blamed others for my situation and felt I deserved a little sin in my life. I mean look at what being good got “that” person. My selfishness said I didn’t want to end up broke, bored and bothered. But GOD said something different.

• When problems hit GOD had HIS arms wide open and showed me unimaginable grace.
• When I practiced my sad story I was going to tell HIM, HE already had forgiven me.
• When I realized I was guilty, HE showed me mercy.

GOD is always, always ready to forgive me when I realize I need to be forgiven.

• Are you blaming GOD for something?
• Can you accept the situation HE has you in so you can be an example for HIM?
• Will you recognize the grace HE is showing you right now?