They Saw GOD

 

They Saw GOD

Exodus 24: ⁹ Then Moses went up, also Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel, ¹⁰ and they saw the God of Israel. And there was under His feet as it were a paved work of sapphire stone, and it was like the very heavens in its clarity. ¹¹ But on the nobles of the children of Israel He did not lay His hand. So they saw God, and they ate and drank.

 

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Moses and the leaders of Israel went up part of the way of the mountain. When they got to a certain point, they could see GOD.

 

My Observations:

• I believe they saw the preincarnate JESUS.
• I believe JESUS brought HIS own pavement from heaven and it was a blue sapphire with extreme clarity.
• I believe JESUS did not touch the leaders of Israel because HE did not anoint all of them.

 

Seeing GOD should have been enough to keep the faith extremely high for the rest of their lives. In fact, they heard what Moses said when he first mentioned that GOD was going to dismantle Egypt. They saw the plagues and saw that they were not affected by them. They saw the defeat of Egypt. They got water from a rock. They also received Manna and quail every day.

 

But the children of Israel had a mindset that was difficult to change. No matter what was given to them or shown to them, they would still think the way they wanted. JESUS appeared in preincarnate form and did not touch them. They may have been excited to be chosen to see GOD, so they celebrated by eating the sacrificial food. They saw GOD, BUT GOD did not touch them.

 

Challenge

• Why did GOD remind Moses about the leaders of Israel seeing JESUS?
• Has GOD provided for you, shown you wonders and given you promises and yet, you still have not fully believed and are choosing your own path?
• How much more does GOD have to do for you to put your trust in HIM?

Eyes Lifted

Eyes Lifted

Genesis 31: ¹⁰ “And it happened, at the time when the flocks conceived, that I lifted my eyes and saw in a dream, and behold, the rams which leaped upon the flocks were streaked, speckled, and gray-spotted. ¹¹ Then the Angel of God spoke to me in a dream, saying, ‘Jacob.’ And I said, ‘Here I am.’ ¹² And He said, ‘Lift your eyes now and see, all the rams which leap on the flocks are streaked, speckled, and gray-spotted; for I have seen all that Laban is doing to you. ¹³ I am the God of Bethel, where you anointed the pillar and where you made a vow to Me. Now arise, get out of this land, and return to the land of your family.’ ”

 

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Jacob explained a vision he had from GOD. Right around the time the flocks would normally conceive, GOD provided Jacob with a vision of streaked, speckled and spotted rams leaping on the flocks. He then heard JESUS speak.

 

My Observations:

• JESUS is the Angel of the LORD who spoke to Jacob.
• JESUS showed Jacob how HE would change the flocks to take them from Laban.
• JESUS reminded Jacob of his promise he made at Bethel where he saw the ladder of angels.

 

Jacob could finally see, but in a different way. He could see how GOD was working out the situation that seemed like a mess. He had been a deceiver and worked for a deceiver. This situation seemed hopeless. BUT GOD showed Jacob HE is GOD.

 

HE may have allowed the situation to change Jacob from being a deceiver to following HIM. I can only imagine what was going through Jacob’s mind when he was told by GOD that HE saw Laban’s deceit. Jacob may have thought to himself “Is this how I am acting?”

 

GOD was not about to destroy the area like HE did with Sodom. This directive from GOD was to move Jacob and his family back to the area of Isaac and Rebekah. GOD was now Jacob’s GOD. He could go back home to face Esau and also face his past deceitfulness.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think GOD told Moses about HIS reminder to Jacob about the vow made at Bethel?
• Are you focused on your current situation?
• Have you lifted your eyes to GOD to stop looking at the current situation and believe in HIS power today?

Seeing Beyond

Seeing Beyond

Hebrews 11: ²³ It was faith that made the parents of Moses hide him for three months after he was born. They saw that he was a beautiful child, and they were not afraid to disobey the king's order.

 

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Opening the mailbox, I pulled out a stack of bills. “When will this ever end?” I said with a sigh. I had just enough to pay all of them, but I decided to go in with a few “friends” and throw  a party. After the party was over, everyone left and I still had the bills.

 

• I had a moment of fun but now I was worried.
• I had a time of pleasure but now I had to face my problem.
• I had obligations but could not see beyond a moment of pleasure.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, gives another example of faith. He mentions the parents of Moses disobeying the king’s order to murder all children under a certain age. They hid Moses instead of following the decree and risked death in doing so. They did not get caught up in the moment.

 

My Observations:

• Worries may cause me to make snap decisions, BUT GOD wants me to calm down to hear HIS voice.
• Problems may cause me to want immediate ways to get relief, BUT GOD desires that I seek HIS solution.
• Human situations may cause me to have pain, BUT GOD wants me to see beyond the pain and to know HE is in control.

 

Seeing beyond the pain is hard. I mean, who wants pain? Noone! But there is an enemy that wants me and you to experience enough pain to question GOD or even turn from HIS solution, namely JESUS as the Savior. Circumstance after circumstance, the devil wages war to make me discouraged. BUT GOD sees his attacks and steps in.

 

GOD whispers “Think beyond this circumstance” by telling me “Keep your eyes on ME.” When I look at GOD and take my eyes off of the circumstance, I can see hope, and love that I could not see when I looked at the problem. HE then resolves problems in HIS way and time. I am glad HE cares deeply for me and you.

 

Challenge

• According to the writer, what act of faith was performed?
• Have you ever had to stand on faith even when, seemingly, everyone around you was going in a different direction?
• Will you ask GOD to fortify your faith in HIM so you can stand firm for HIM today?

Being Sharp

 

Being Sharp

Romans 11: ⁷ What then? The people of Israel did not find what they were looking for. It was only the small group that God chose who found it; the rest grew deaf to God's call. ⁸ As the scripture says, “God made their minds and hearts dull; to this very day they cannot see or hear.” ⁹ And David says,

 

“May they be caught and trapped at their feasts;
    may they fall, may they be punished!
¹⁰ May their eyes be blinded so that they cannot see;
    and make them bend under their troubles at all times.”

 

 

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“OoWee! You look sharp!” someone told me as I donned my new suit. I felt pretty important walking around in a new suit. I heard the word “sharp” before but was never called it. Later in life, I met people who were moving up in the company. “That woman is sharp” they told me. I watched what she did and tried to emulate what I saw. I soon met other “sharp” people.

 

• I met many people who were classified as “sharp.”
• I met many people whose minds were classified as “sharp.”
• I met many people who led large crowds, who I thought were “sharp.”

 

The prophets and Paul talked about people who overlooked GOD. HIS chosen people denied JESUS being the Messiah so GOD made their minds and hearts dull. They can no longer see and hear GOD, so they follow who they label as “sharp.”

 

• GOD wants my heart so HE can keep it sharp.
• GOD wants my mind so HE can use it for HIS purpose.
• GOD wants my search to be over so HE provided JESUS.

 

Finding JESUS as the Savior keeps my mind and heart sharp. The news speaks of name after name. calling each person sharp or dull. BUT GOD is the only one who has the authority to do so.

 

HE blinds those who do not rely on HIS SON and sharpens the few who call on HIM for their troubles. I am glad JESUS entered into my life and ask that HE keeps my heart sharp for those HE wants me to bring to HIM.

 

• Are you trying to look good in front of people to gain their respect?
• Are you trying to mimic people who you think are “sharp?”
• Will you allow GOD to keep your heart and mind sharp by allowing JESUS to come into your life and  believe HE is the Savior of the world today?

Able to See

 

Able to See

Acts 22: ¹² “A man named Ananias came to see me. He was a devout observer of the law and highly respected by all the Jews living there. ¹³ He stood beside me and said, ‘Brother Saul, receive your sight!’ And at that very moment I was able to see him.

 

¹⁴ “Then he said: ‘The God of our ancestors has chosen you to know his will and to see the Righteous One and to hear words from his mouth. ¹⁵ You will be his witness to all people of what you have seen and heard. ¹⁶ And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name.’

 

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Looking at the problem, I could not figure out a solution at all. The problem seemed complicated and the solution seemed even more elusive. When I sat there, I felt lost. I mean, not knowing what was wrong made me feel like I was wandering in the dark.

 

• There were some problems that I faced that I could not see what the problem was.
• There were some problems that I encountered where I was blind to coming up with solutions.
• There were some problems that I endured because I was blind to the fact that I was the problem.

 

Paul explained how JESUS blinded him on the road to Damascus. He then told the angry mob of how Ananias, a devout observer of the law, was sent to him. Paul put in the law comment trying to address the angry Jews. He then explained that Ananias told him to receive his sight and he did. Paul was now able to see physically and spiritually.

 

• GOD wants me to open the eyes of my heart so I can see HIM regularly.
• GOD wants me to learn about HIM so I can see the problems HE sees.
• GOD wants me to experience HIS grace so I can show others the same grace HE showed me.

 

Seeing is important to GOD. Even blind people can see when they know JESUS as their

Savior. I mean, they have insights into the GOD’s kingdom that only come from JESUS. GOD wants me to see HIS power, HIS presence in every situation and HIS patience when I get anxious.

 

“Get up” is the call from GOD when I am down. HE baptizes me and sends me out to call on HIS name for every situation. I am grateful GOD opens my eyes to HIS kingdom daily.

 

• Are you blind to what GOD is doing in your life?
• Do you give credit to humans for what GOD is doing?
• Will you open your eyes to what JESUS has done for you so HE can use your heart to help others see HIM as the Savior today?

Outside Observers

Outside Observers

John 4: ⁴³ After the two days he left for Galilee. ⁴⁴ (Now Jesus himself had pointed out that a prophet has no honor in his own country.) ⁴⁵ When he arrived in Galilee, the Galileans welcomed him. They had seen all that he had done in Jerusalem at the Passover Festival, for they also had been there.

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“I have been watching you to see if you are sincere” someone said to me. I had no idea this person was looking at my actions until they approached me. I was flattered but then I was filled with fear. I wonder how many people were watching me mess up time and time again and didn’t tell me.

• Many times I have not been proud of what I have done.
• Many times I have not been excited about the way I messed up.
• Many times I have felt ashamed of what I have done, so I hid.

JESUS went to Galilee and was welcomed. In Jerusalem the church leaders rejected HIM, but the Galileans watched JESUS and were excited. They saw HIM serve HIS people in miraculous ways and believed in HIM more and more.

• GOD wants me to see HIS work every day.
• GOD wants me to acknowledge HIS presence every day.
• GOD wants me to praise HIM for the things HE is doing, not just for what HE has done.

Watching GOD work brings praise to my lips. HE gives me a front row seat to the best performance I could ever imagine. HE places so many people in my life and sustains them, protects them and heals them, right in front of me. HE places praise on my lips and makes me recognize HIM. I am grateful for HIS great power!

• What will people say about you?
• Do people recognize GOD in you?
• Do you see GOD in spite of your circumstances?

Control Freak

Luke 13: ¹⁴ But the ruler of the synagogue answered with indignation, because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath; and he said to the crowd, “There are six days on which men ought to work; therefore come and be healed on them, and not on the Sabbath day.”

¹⁵ The Lord then answered him and said,  “Hypocrite! Does not each one of you on the Sabbath loose his ox or donkey from the stall, and lead it away to water it? ¹⁶ So ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has bound—think of it—for eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath?” ¹⁷ And when He said these things, all His adversaries were put to shame; and all the multitude rejoiced for all the glorious things that were done by Him.

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“Look at the people singing the song wrong. Some people aren’t even singing. Why are we singing this song anyway. I wonder if I should put in a few suggestions for some “better” songs” were the flood of thoughts at the beginning of the church service.

• There are times when I think I have all the answers.
• There are times when I think I know better than those around me.
• There are times when I am distracted by “form.”

One of the church leaders barked out a rebuke towards JESUS for healing on the Sabbath. JESUS immediately calls him a hypocrite and had to show how ludicrous his thinking was. Should “form” be placed over following the SPIRIT? This was the gist of JESUS’ reply.

• GOD wants me to bring others to HIM and so they can have their own relationship with GOD.
• GOD wants me to stop trying to control people into how they serve HIM.
• GOD wants me to allow HIM to grow people so they can see HIS marvelous power.

Worshiping, learning and serving are all extremely important to GOD, but not as important as I can sometimes emphasize to others. When I get to the point where I am criticizing how much or little someone prays then I suddenly fall into the hypocrite category JESUS spoke of.

GOD is the only ONE who can see if someone is truly worshiping HIM or not. HE would rather have me praying for the population who is rejecting HIM all together than focusing on correcting a believer’s pattern of church attendance. GOD gives grace, not control. HE allows me to be as wild as a tornado without sending me straight to hell. I am grateful GOD guides others and me.

• Is someone worshiping GOD wrong?
• Do you notice what others are doing wrong when they are supposedly serving GOD?
• Can you reduce your judgment on others and allow GOD to lead you to people who really need HIS live today?

Clean Lenses

Luke 11: ³³ “No one, when he has lit a lamp, puts it in a secret place or under a basket, but on a lampstand, that those who come in may see the light.³⁴ The lamp of the body is the eye. Therefore, when your eye is good, your whole body also is full of light. But when your eye is bad, your body also is full of darkness. ³⁵ Therefore take heed that the light which is in you is not darkness. ³⁶ If then your whole body is full of light, having no part dark, the whole body will be full of light, as when the bright shining of a lamp gives you light.”

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Traffic was more heave this particular day. “Why does that person keep darting in and out?” I said to myself. “And why is the radio playing the same song over and over?” “Why is it so dark and cold?” I made it to my destination and someone asked “What’s wrong?” They could see something on my face that I couldn’t.

• Sometimes I am full of complaints.
• Sometimes I see the world negatively.
• Sometimes I see more problems than opportunities.

JESUS seems to be speaking on the outlook on life. Whatever enters the spiritual eyes affects the entire mindset and actions of the looker. If I use sin as my filter, then my mindset will be bent towards sin, same with negativity, doubt and fear. BUT GOD has an answer.

• GOD wants me to see more situations through HIS eyes.
• GOD wants me to look at the day with the same loving view HE looks through.
• GOD wants me to reduce my negative, complaining, fearful view and replace it with faith, truth and love.

Perspective is extremely important to GOD. If I see people with a negative view then they I will be quick to point out how wrong they are. GOD wants me to lift people up so they can grow in CHRIST. HIS blessings are poured out on me on the darkest days. GOD is my shield. HE clears my eyes.

• How do you see things?
• Does everything seem like a disaster to you?
• Can you stop thinking negatively and look at the day, and people, the way GOD sees them?

Hardened Away

Mark 6: ⁴⁵ Immediately He made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, to Bethsaida, while He sent the multitude away. ⁴⁶ And when He had sent them away, He departed to the mountain to pray. ⁴⁷ Now when evening came, the boat was in the middle of the sea; and He was alone on the land. ⁴⁸ Then He saw them straining at rowing, for the wind was against them. Now about the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea, and would have passed them by. ⁴⁹ And when they saw Him walking on the sea, they supposed it was a ghost, and cried out; ⁵⁰ for they all saw Him and were troubled. But immediately He talked with them and said to them, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.” ⁵¹ Then He went up into the boat to them, and the wind ceased. And they were greatly amazed in themselves beyond measure, and marveled. ⁵² For they had not understood about the loaves, because their heart was hardened.

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“Do you want to go over your friend’s house?” was the question. “No, he’s not my friend!”  pouted back. I cannot remember what had happened but all I know is he was no longer my friend. I think it was because he wouldn’t share his toy with me. When I saw other kids playing, I had to change my heart and visit.

• Sometimes I get mad at people.
• Sometimes I cannot hear good advice because I am angry.
• Sometimes I stick to principles when I should be listening to advice.

The disciples desired something different from JESUS. They may have possibly wanted HIM to be a king just like everyone else. While they were able to perform some miracles, they were still confused about who and what JESUS was and is.

Their hearts were hardened to the truth of JESUS being GOD and they could not understand HIS ability to walk on water or for them to feed 5000 or more people with nothing like HE did.

• JESUS says to me “Be of good cheer” when the winds of life blow my way.
• JESUS says to me “Do not be afraid” when challenges come against me.
• JESUS says to me “Believe” when things seem impossible.

Belief that GOD will handle everything in the right time and the right way is hard to do, so hard that my heart may be affected and become hardened to HIS way.  I may rely on “my” abilities instead of believing GOD understands the situation and loves me beyond measure. “My” power comes from HIS power when I believe.

• Are you going through something?
• Are the storms of life challenging your abilities right now?
• Can you stop trying to do things under your own power and seek GOD to provide HIS power?

Nice Skyline

Matthew 24: Jesus left the temple and was walking away when his disciples came up to him to call his attention to its buildings. ² “Do you see all these things?” he asked. “Truly I tell you, not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down.”

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Wonder filled my eyes as I approached the city on the train. I had been downtown many times, but this time I was there to see the sights by myself. I looked up in amazement. “What wonderful buildings!” I thought to myself.

• I love cities with nice architecture.
• I admire those who can plan buildings and execute putting them in place.
• I enjoy visiting cities with buildings that look like art.

Around the world I have seen buildings built with magnificent prowess. JESUS’s disciples were trying to get HIM to notice the magnificent buildings of the time, probably in awe of human accomplishment. JESUS explains what will happen to the buildings.

• JESUS says to me “Everything you do on earth is temporary except with humans.”
• JESUS says to me “Every project you build on earth will be thrown away, except those concerning humans.”
• JESUS says to me “Every accomplishment that makes humans point to other humans will be brought down, for I AM the way.”

There is something amazing about seeing a nice skyline. BUT GOD has a greater place planned for me. In other words, if I thought humans could build magnificence, wait until I see what GOD can do!. JESUS referred to HIMSELF as the temple that would be torn down and raised back up in three days. I need to admire HIS beauty alone!

• Do you admire what people do and accomplish?
• Do you want to be admired?
• Can you stop wanting the spotlight or shining the light on humans and start pointing at JESUS?

Trapped

Matthew 14: ²⁵ Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. ²⁶ When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear.

²⁷ But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”

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My mind raced as I heard a noise. I paused to perk my ears like a rabbit tracking a predator. “What or even worse, who is that?” I cringed in terror. This went on for an eternal two minutes! “Hi, just checking in to see how you are doing” was the statement from my boss. I was not expecting him. My trapped feeling went away.

• Sometimes my mind conjures up the worst that could happen.
• Sometimes my mind thinks of pain and problem when facing the unknown.
• Sometimes my mind magnifies the figment of my imagination to be something bigger than it is.

Seeing a figure come out of the dark must have scared the wits out of the disciples. I mean no one had ever walked on water before so it must have been a ghost was their logic. I concur. I would have been scared too. They were not able to run or get away so the “trapped” feeling magnified their fears. I feel like that sometimes. BUT GOD wants me to fee different.

• GOD wants me to expect HIS miracles in ways I will never understand.
• GOD wants me to know HE can do anything so I need to watch for the peculiar and the norm.
• GOD wants me to “Take courage” for it is HE who calms the situation.

“Don’t be afraid” was JESUS’s calming words and HE says this to me when I get scared. HE wants me to focus on the miracle, not the problem, so I can praise HIM. Feeling trapped and scared blinds me. GOD wants me to slow down to see HIS might.

• Are you feeling trapped?
• Are you afraid?
• Can you slow down and look for GOD in the situation so HE can show you HIS miracle?

Looking and Listening

Matthew 13: ¹⁶ But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear. ¹⁷ For truly I tell you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.

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Seeing and hearing GOD are two things that eluded me for the longest. I just wanted to hear the movie like voice, booming through the clouds. I also desired to see the hand people always paint, reaching down to pick me up. Wouldn’t seeing and hearing make me believe more?

• My faith in GOD has sometimes been small.
• My faith in GOD has sometimes been mixed in with fear and doubt.
• My faith in GOD has sometimes had a dangerous mix of “prove YOURSELF.”

“If YOU are GOD, then why don’t YOU…” has been a thought that has popped into my mind This thought is one that I have learned is the most dangerous one to entertain. It questions HIS being, authority and love. It also introduces my doubt which leads me to need for HIM to boom HIS voice and reach down in ways my small faith can understand.

• GOD shows me HIS hand when HE feeds me daily.
• GOD talks to me through HIS word and HIS SPIRIT.
• GOD gives me purpose of spreading HIS word to those who can hear it.

Every day GOD shows me something and says a lot to me. HE takes my fears, doubts and worries and transforms them into faith, love and peace. HE walks with me and talks with me along life’s narrow way. Now I expect to be attacked and I also expect that GOD will protect.

• Are you looking tor GOD?
• Do you want a sign from HIM?
• Can you seek HIS face in a different way by seeking to do HIS will?
• Will you listen for HIM by reading HIS word today?

Hearing a Story

Matthew 13: ¹⁰ The disciples came to him and asked, “Why do you speak to the people in parables?”

¹¹ He replied, “Because the knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. ¹² Whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. ¹³ This is why I speak to them in parables:

“Though seeing, they do not see;
    though hearing, they do not hear or understand.

¹⁴ In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah:

“‘You will be ever hearing but never understanding;
    you will be ever seeing but never perceiving.
¹⁵ For this people’s heart has become calloused;
    they hardly hear with their ears,
    and they have closed their eyes.
Otherwise they might see with their eyes,
    hear with their ears,
    understand with their hearts
and turn, and I would heal them.’

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“But what will I do about my family” were the words the employee said to me as I prepared to let them go. Someone told me I had to be tough to handle this type of work.

• I have been in positions where a heart of stone was necessary.
• I have been in roles where a cold heart was applauded.
• I have been in organizations where callouses on the heart were welcome.

“Business is business” was the mantra, yet many were getting hurt by calloused hearts. What was I to do?

• GOD said to me “Open your heart and let ME in.”
• GOD said to me “I will turn your stony heart into one that can hear MY words.”
• GOD said to me “When you can hear MY words, I will provide you with abundance.”

Blind, deaf and mute was my path when my heart was calloused. I could not see GOD, hear HIS direction or speak on HIS behalf, yet I was “successful” in human terms. GOD wants me to have “treasure in heaven” which does not rust or moths cannot eat. HE desires me to have a heart for HIM.

• Do you love you more than GOD?
• Do you find your heart getting colder and colder towards others?
• Can you ask GOD to ignite your heart for others so HE can provide you with abundance?

Daily Delight

Micah 7: ⁷ But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord,
    I wait for God my Savior;
    my God will hear me.

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¹⁸ Who is a God like you,
    who pardons sin and forgives the transgression
    of the remnant of his inheritance?
You do not stay angry forever
    but delight to show mercy.
¹⁹ You will again have compassion on us;
    you will tread our sins underfoot
    and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea.

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“Wham!” was the first thing that happened as I stubbed my toe against a cabinet. I ran around the house looking for my keys and it seemed to take a solid year to find them. I was in a hurry to get to work and “this guy” was in front of me with his blinker on for miles, doing well under the speed limit. “What a day!” I thought to myself.

• There are some days where I get flustered.
• There are some days that seem to have more wrong than right.
• There are some days that simply just get to me!

As I rushed throughout the day I noticed my demeanor getting worse and worse. I went to get something to eat and my order was wrong! “That’s it! I had enough!” I thought to myself. I wasn’t going to let the day push me around anymore! I was ready to argue, fuss and fight with the next thing that went wrong. Is this how I should be?

• GOD says to me “Place your hope in me and I will hear you.”
• GOD says to me “I AM the one who pardons your sins and forgives your transgressions.”
• GOD says to me “I will not stay angry forever and I delight in showing mercy to you.”

“Delight” was the thing that was missing from the day. From early morning and all throughout the day, I had missed out on “delightful” moments that could have been wonderful. Instead of complaining, I should seek out what delights GOD.

By slowing down long enough to place my “hope” in HIM through prayer, GOD actually listens directly to me. Amazing! HE leads me to a quiet place and turns my hurried harassed day into a place where I can see HIM doing HIS wonders. GOD has compassion on me.

• Are you ready to fight?
• Are you ready to snap and are collecting your “side” of the story?
• Will you put down your poison and put away your sharp tongued weapons and seek GOD’s peace?
• Will you ask yourself “Why am I so angry” and ask GOD to show what delights HIM today?

Filled with Awe

Ezekiel 1: ²⁶ Above the vault over their heads was what looked like a throne of lapis lazuli, and high above on the throne was a figure like that of a man. ²⁷ I saw that from what appeared to be his waist up he looked like glowing metal, as if full of fire, and that from there down he looked like fire; and brilliant light surrounded him. ²⁸ Like the appearance of a rainbow in the clouds on a rainy day, so was the radiance around him.

This was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the Lord. When I saw it, I fell facedown, and I heard the voice of one speaking.

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Rumbles of the storm were now distant. The sun was out and I saw the most brilliant rainbow, then another. I figured I would visit it so I ran over to the next block, it moved. I ran further and the elusive rainbow stayed its distance.

• When I was a child I did not understand what true power was.
• When I was a child I did not understand the forces that were around me.
• When I was a child I did not understand what it meant to just be in awe.

Instead of marveling at the wonder, I went to touch the rainbow. I don’t know if I wanted to grab it for bragging rights or if it were simply curiosity, but I wanted it. Now that I have grown up I admire the stormy gales and rushing winds. When it all clears I am in awe at GOD’s mighty power and serenity HE brings by placing a rainbow as a sign that HE would never again flood the earth to get rid of mankind.

• GOD’s awesomeness is all around me every day.
• GOD’s mighty power can be seen by me if I would only open my eyes daily.
• GOD speaks to me daily through the wonders of nature if I would only stop and listen.

Busy days blind me to GOD’s awesomeness. Mad paced deadlines and due dates keep me from sitting and looking at what GOD made. BUT GOD is still awesome. HE is still there whenever I simply look up and see HIM. HE is to be awed, there is no one like HIM!

• Have you taken a moment to stop and see GOD’s awesomeness?
• When is the last time you gave GOD credit for what HE has done?
• Can you stop for a moment today and look outside to see what GOD is doing all around you?
• Will you be filled with the awe of the LORD?

Little g or Big G

Isaiah 6: In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord, high and exalted, seated on a throne; and the train of his robe filled the temple. ² Above him were seraphim, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. ³ And they were calling to one another:

“Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty;
    the whole earth is full of his glory.”

⁴ At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke.

⁵ “Woe to me!” I cried. “I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty.”

⁶ Then one of the seraphim flew to me with a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with tongs from the altar. ⁷ With it he touched my mouth and said, “See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for.”

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Looking at the pile of bills made me feel discouraged. My car was broken down, rent was due, creditors were calling and I was not making enough to pay any of them. Where is GOD when I need HIM, I thought. I went back to my ways of trying to fix all the broken stuff in my life. I asked for extra shifts, but since I was a student, I was not allowed. What was I to do?

• There are times when it seems like GOD does not care.
• There are times when it seems like GOD has left me by myself.
• There are times when it seems like GOD doesn’t have the power HE says HE has.

“Why am I so poor if GOD has so much power?” I thought to myself. I mean, look at the rich people who don’t seem to serve GOD at all, who treat people with contempt. Then I told GOD that I had tried going to church, but it didn’t work. I got another bill and no miracle money appeared in my account, so I stopped going. I was looking at GOD as a small being who only solves problems. BUT GOD wanted me to see different.

• GOD wants me to see HIM as THE MOST HIGH.
• GOD wants me to see HIM as ALL POWERFUL.
• GOD wants me to see HIM as THE ULTIMATE FORGIVER.

Having the wrong view of GOD made me think of HIM as a banker or philanthropist. I only saw what I could get from HIM, not what purpose HE had me on this earth for. I pouted and doubted but GOD was merciful. HE had me work day to day, only focusing on the blessings of that day. HE gave me the strength to carry on and eventually I began to serve HIM no matter what.

GOD blessed many and I could then see that HE has me here for more than wealth. GOD wants me to serve HIM and be wealthy in HIS kingdom. I no longer see “god” as my servant but I see “GOD” as needing to be served.

• Are you losing your faint in GOD because of your circumstances?
• Do you think GOD has left you?
• Will you stop focusing on your situation and start focusing on who GOD is and how powerful HE is?
• Can you lift HIM back to the place above your circumstances rather than getting discouraged?

Filled with Wonder

Isaiah 4: ² In that day the Branch of the Lord will be beautiful and glorious, and the fruit of the land will be the pride and glory of the survivors in Israel. ³ Those who are left in Zion, who remain in Jerusalem, will be called holy, all who are recorded among the living in Jerusalem. ⁴ The Lord will wash away the filth of the women of Zion; he will cleanse the bloodstains from Jerusalem by a spirit of judgment and a spirit of fire. ⁵ Then the Lord will create over all of Mount Zion and over those who assemble there a cloud of smoke by day and a glow of flaming fire by night; over everything the glory will be a canopy. ⁶ It will be a shelter and shade from the heat of the day, and a refuge and hiding place from the storm and rain.

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As I looked at this passage this morning I noticed that I was left out. I’m not saying that I’m not included in the promises. I am saying I don’t have anything to do but sit here and watch.

• The LORD will be beautiful and glorious.
• The LORD will wash away the filth, HE will cleanse bloodstains.
• The LORD will create.

Sometimes I think GOD is just sitting around doing nothing but watching HIS experiment to see if I will make it out of the maze of life. As I sin, it equates to running into a wall and if I get lost it is similar to going into a dead end section of the maze. BUT GOD wants me to take off my blinders.

• GOD wants me to see only HIS glory so I won’t use my own.
• GOD wants me to see only HIS power so I won’t think I need any of mine.
• GOD wants me to see only HIS promises so I won’t get caught up pouting over what I don’t have.

Looking at GOD does not always mean looking at the answer guy who just sits and waits to fix my problems. HE is the way, the truth and the life. GOD is active in my life on a daily basis. Minute by minute HE is there. Sometimes I just need to see only HIM and nothing else.

• Can you look at GOD today?
• Will you seek only HIS face and try to please HIM?
• Will you ask HIM to show HIS might today?

Hearing When the Noise is Loud

Psalm 104: ²⁷ All creatures look to you
    to give them their food at the proper time.
²⁸ When you give it to them,
    they gather it up;
when you open your hand,
    they are satisfied with good things.
²⁹ When you hide your face,
    they are terrified;
when you take away their breath,
    they die and return to the dust.
³⁰ When you send your Spirit,
    they are created,
    and you renew the face of the ground.

³¹ May the glory of the Lord endure forever;
    may the Lord rejoice in his works—
³² he who looks at the earth, and it trembles,
    who touches the mountains, and they smoke.

³³ I will sing to the Lord all my life;
    I will sing praise to my God as long as I live.
³⁴ May my meditation be pleasing to him,
    as I rejoice in the Lord.

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“Hurry, we have to get to the airport on time” were the motivating words out of my mouth that I barked at my team. Barely getting there on time, my heart raced as I got into the routine of shoe removal and laptop stacking in the security line. I quickly sized up the other travelers and noticed a person fumbling to remove their belt.

I quickly dashed into another line and looked incessantly at my watch, hoping to speed up the security screeners. I plopped in my seat and immediately went to sleep not noticing anyone around me.

• Sometimes the noise of life makes me not notice my surroundings.
• Sometimes the noise of life drowns out quiet sounds.
• Sometimes the noise of life keeps me on edge to the point where nothing else fits.

It’s hard to see GOD at work when the attendant doesn’t have my reservation and I may be late for an important meeting. Birds, what birds? What do they have to do with me? I, late! BUT GOD wants me to hear HIM.

• GOD provides food for the birds and wants me to slow down to notice HE takes care of them and me.
• GOD made the mountains and waters the field and wants me to know HE cares for me in spite of what’s going on around me.
• GOD sustains and gives at the proper time and wants me to understand HIS time is wonderful.

Slow down instead of speeding up. Stop looking at the watch or calendar and look out at the bird hopping in the field is what HE says to me. HIS eye is on the sparrow and I know HE watches over me.

• Are you deafened by your circumstance?
• Have you gotten to the point where you cannot hear or see GOD working?
• Can you stop looking at your watch or calendar and see HIM today?
• Will you listen to HIS voice by slowing down for just a minute?

Simple Praise takes Awareness

Psalm 52: ⁸ But I am like an olive tree
    flourishing in the house of God;
I trust in God’s unfailing love
    for ever and ever.
⁹ For what you have done I will always praise you
    in the presence of your faithful people.
And I will hope in your name,
    for your name is good.

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“Something” made me desire to plant an avocado tree in my house from an avocado pit. I followed the instructions meticulously. It took weeks for the first sprouts to appear and in about three months I had a twiggy looking plant. Not quite the plant I had hoped for. I nurtured it over the winter and it survived but only produced a few leaves.

I sat the plant outside in the summer. The very first day a huge thunderstorm came through. I watched the poor little twig blow around in the gale. The next day searing heat seemed to bake the pit from which the twig protruded. I stopped looking. It seemed harsh. Weeks later I noticed the plant had huge leaves and more on the way.

• Sometimes it’s hard to see why I am in the storm.
• Sometimes it seems like I barely growing and the wind is beating me up.
• Sometimes I feel like the searing heat of life is burning too much.

“For what you have done” are the words that caught my attention. This requires that I remember the things GOD has done which necessitates that I notice what GOD is doing. The difficult times are not there to break me because of my horrible failure of being human rather they are there to grow me. Each tempest that comes against me strengthens my weak dexterity. 

• GOD wants me to know HE loves me so HE takes me through the storm rather than around it.
• GOD knows exactly what it takes to grow me so HE places me in the position to squirm.
• GOD sends searing heat to burn off the things that are childish and the items that don’t belong.

It will take ten years for my avocado tree to reach maturity, but I notice the tree is flourishing. Only GOD can grow a tree. Only GOD can grow me. I will remember to praise GOD for the things HE is “doing” because I now notice them.

• Do you see GOD daily?
• Can you recognize that GOD is growing you because you asked to be taken to the next level?
• Will you let GOD blow the winds of life against you to mature you and bless you?
• Will you sing praise to GOD for choosing to grow you, HIS way?

Removing the Blockage

Psalm 19: ¹ The heavens declare the glory of God;

    the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
² Day after day they pour forth speech;
    night after night they reveal knowledge.
³ They have no speech, they use no words;
    no sound is heard from them.
⁴ Yet their voice goes out into all the earth,
    their words to the ends of the world.
In the heavens God has pitched a tent for the sun.
⁵     It is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber,
    like a champion rejoicing to run his course.
⁶ It rises at one end of the heavens
    and makes its circuit to the other;
    nothing is deprived of its warmth.

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Breathtaking is the only word that I could use to describe the landscape as I came around a curve in the road. The ocean was in front of me, mountains behind  and the sun hung brightly in the sky. At that moment I could only see the majestic work of GOD. As time passed, I saw traffic, I saw the problem of the day in my mind through voicemail, and I saw reports from my desk. I drowned out seeing GOD with the noise of my surroundings.

• Many times I cannot see GOD because of what I’m looking at.
• Many times I cannot hear GOD because I’m too busy listening to problems or myself.
• Many times I cannot feel GOD because I think HE is “upstairs” or away from me in some distant galaxy, only doing big things.

Broken stuff, bank accounts, car trouble and my physical body can block me from noticing the little and the large things GOD does. I can get so caught up in the problem of the day that I cannot notice GOD’s creative work. I may even say “How does looking at the ocean solve the broken appliance in my house?” BUT GOD says something different.

• When I can slow down to notice GOD’s mastery, I can obtain peace that HE can handle my tiny problem.
• When I can slow down to see GOD’s majesty, I can see HE is concerned about every detail of life, mine included.
• When I can slow down to listen to GOD’s magnificence, I can understand HE is right here and not in some distant location.

GOD is surging through everything in front of me. HE is all round me and sometimes I need to step outside, quiet myself down and look. Gratitude for HIS work makes me hear HIM a lot better than a complaint for where I am. When I can truly marvel at HIS decision for creation, I can see HIS concern for me.

• Are you so focused on your problem that you can no longer hear GOD?
• Do you see GOD’s creative work around you?
• Can you slow down, look outside and marvel at what GOD has created for a moment?
• Will you simply praise HIM for who HE is?