The word "compassion" came to me today as I read about how Jesus responded to the people who came to Him. He preached the truth to them, healed them and fed them, even though He had gone aside to be alone. This was His habitual lifestyle.
Meditating on this, I began to think of how seldom I am in the place to feel compassion, or be moved by it. I work at home, where I am comfortable, have clothes to wear and food to eat. When I go on errands, I rarely see anyone in need. I am sheltered from the difficulties of life. I see photos, almost daily, and read of the disasters and other horrors in the world on the internet, and it is easy to become overwhelmed by all of it. But do I really feel compassion? My response to Haiti was to give money through Samaritan's Purse, for I truly hurt for them. But, in general, I find I can offer up prayer but little else. I think the shear magnitude of all of it causes it to feel unreal. If it all truly touched me, I think I would be crushed.
How different our Christian life would be if we walked about as Jesus did and really talked to people! Is it possible that true compassion takes eye contact? The sound of a voice? A touch? If we could again encounter the world's need on a daily basis, in our own sphere first, then I think we would find ourselves again moved with compassion as Jesus was. He still is! If we could find ways to put ourselves in the presence of others who have need, then we would find Him again moving as He did before, and we would see the miracles it often takes to meet those needs. It's just going to take deliberate action on the part of a modern-day person, on my part.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
March 30, 2010
I would rather put my efforts into trying to touch Jesus with the faith that it takes to be completely healed, than to spend all my time and money on physicians, only to be disappointed.
These passages are a pivotal part of the Scriptural core that holds together my belief that Jesus is our Great Physician who we can always turn to for healing of all types. Of course, we all have to walk in what we have faith for. The woman above had faith in the doctors, until she realized they couldn't heal her. When she finally turned to Jesus in faith, He did what they could not do. I opt to just go to Him.
Jesus is Life. He can restore life to anything that needs it.
These passages are a pivotal part of the Scriptural core that holds together my belief that Jesus is our Great Physician who we can always turn to for healing of all types. Of course, we all have to walk in what we have faith for. The woman above had faith in the doctors, until she realized they couldn't heal her. When she finally turned to Jesus in faith, He did what they could not do. I opt to just go to Him.
Jesus is Life. He can restore life to anything that needs it.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
March 20, 2010
Have you ever been "in the wilderness" experiencing God's spiritual feast while you are distanced from earthly things? I believe it's a necessary place to be in preparation for ministry. Jesus was there, and while He was, Satan came to tempt and test Him. I see three areas He was tempted in: 1) His physical existence, 2) His purpose, and 3) His identity. In any one of these areas, He could have reacted according to the flesh, but He walked in the Spirit and overcame with God's Word. We can all do the same, with His help.
In the area of physical existence, we are constantly challenged to rise above the worldly way of living and follow God's instructions. He is to be our source in every way. The wilderness shows us where we are relying on things other than God to sustain us and meet our needs. As a personal example, when I fasted from shopping I became aware of how I was using it to cope with anxiety.
In the area of purpose, did you notice the theme of "authority" being expanded? That again could be a whole blog in itself! Let's just think about Jesus' purpose. He knew what He was supposed to do, but it was obviously not to be done the way Satan suggested. It looks obvious here to us as we read it, but our enemy tries the same approach on all of us-- it just seems more subtle when we're in the middle of it.
We have to be on our guard, particularly when we feel we are clear on what our calling is and we are headed for it. Satan will try to avert us from the path of truth and get us to accomplish, in our own strength, whatever God has told us to do. If we didn't pass the "physical existence" test, we will be easy prey in this area. Look what happened to Balaam. It seemed that he had repented from his oracle-for-pay lifestyle, but today we read that he was responsible for a despicable plan to bring Israel down. He was slain in the vengence against Midian. What a reminder to maintain the fear of the Lord and not be driven by greed! I'm sure greed is the reason many called prophetic people err, and even become false.
If the enemy can't stop you with the first two assaults, he will aim at the heart of your being. "Who are you, really?" "Why would God ever do that for you?" I have many times, during this kind of test, felt like a delusional person while the enemy taunts me with "you are nobody" and "you're just nacissistic." When my pastor shared that Jesus' last reply was "It is said," Luke 4:12, it revolutionized my understanding of the wilderness experience. It's when the Lord has applied Scripture to you, or given you a vision, etc., and you've received it in your heart ("You are my child." "This is what we're going to do."), that you can use Biblical truth to overcome the lies of the enemy. Just quoting Scripture isn't going to do it if you don't believe the Word in your heart. And it doesn't have to be written word-for-word in the Bible if it's truth from God (you should test everything you hear or see against Scripture to make sure).
Again, you can use whatever God had said to you, or shown you in any way, as part of your warfare. Here's an example. During my second pregnancy, the Lord said to me "Your baby is going to come early, but it's going to be alright." Not long after, I had a dream (or vision) of my son grown up. There were many times, during the course of labor and delivery, two months early, and afterwards while my son was very ill or had problems, I held on to the words and vision from the Lord. Scripture all backed me up in my faith, of course, but it was the strength of direct revelation from the Lord that kept me going in the middle of distress. Many times I had to refuse to follow advice from "experts." Now, my son is grown up and married, and he is a wonderful, talented and successful man of God. And I know that God's not done fulfilling His word. Praise the Lord!
That was a lot of words to say: embrace the wilderness-- because when you come forth, having been tried by fire, you will see the word of the Lord fulfilled.
In the area of physical existence, we are constantly challenged to rise above the worldly way of living and follow God's instructions. He is to be our source in every way. The wilderness shows us where we are relying on things other than God to sustain us and meet our needs. As a personal example, when I fasted from shopping I became aware of how I was using it to cope with anxiety.
In the area of purpose, did you notice the theme of "authority" being expanded? That again could be a whole blog in itself! Let's just think about Jesus' purpose. He knew what He was supposed to do, but it was obviously not to be done the way Satan suggested. It looks obvious here to us as we read it, but our enemy tries the same approach on all of us-- it just seems more subtle when we're in the middle of it.
We have to be on our guard, particularly when we feel we are clear on what our calling is and we are headed for it. Satan will try to avert us from the path of truth and get us to accomplish, in our own strength, whatever God has told us to do. If we didn't pass the "physical existence" test, we will be easy prey in this area. Look what happened to Balaam. It seemed that he had repented from his oracle-for-pay lifestyle, but today we read that he was responsible for a despicable plan to bring Israel down. He was slain in the vengence against Midian. What a reminder to maintain the fear of the Lord and not be driven by greed! I'm sure greed is the reason many called prophetic people err, and even become false.
If the enemy can't stop you with the first two assaults, he will aim at the heart of your being. "Who are you, really?" "Why would God ever do that for you?" I have many times, during this kind of test, felt like a delusional person while the enemy taunts me with "you are nobody" and "you're just nacissistic." When my pastor shared that Jesus' last reply was "It is said," Luke 4:12, it revolutionized my understanding of the wilderness experience. It's when the Lord has applied Scripture to you, or given you a vision, etc., and you've received it in your heart ("You are my child." "This is what we're going to do."), that you can use Biblical truth to overcome the lies of the enemy. Just quoting Scripture isn't going to do it if you don't believe the Word in your heart. And it doesn't have to be written word-for-word in the Bible if it's truth from God (you should test everything you hear or see against Scripture to make sure).
Again, you can use whatever God had said to you, or shown you in any way, as part of your warfare. Here's an example. During my second pregnancy, the Lord said to me "Your baby is going to come early, but it's going to be alright." Not long after, I had a dream (or vision) of my son grown up. There were many times, during the course of labor and delivery, two months early, and afterwards while my son was very ill or had problems, I held on to the words and vision from the Lord. Scripture all backed me up in my faith, of course, but it was the strength of direct revelation from the Lord that kept me going in the middle of distress. Many times I had to refuse to follow advice from "experts." Now, my son is grown up and married, and he is a wonderful, talented and successful man of God. And I know that God's not done fulfilling His word. Praise the Lord!
That was a lot of words to say: embrace the wilderness-- because when you come forth, having been tried by fire, you will see the word of the Lord fulfilled.
Friday, March 19, 2010
March 19, 2010
A phrase popped out at me today as I read: "a pleasant odor, an offering by fire to the Lord." I want my life to be fragrant and pleasing to the Lord. I will be meditating on this today, waiting on the Lord to see what He would receive from me as an "offering by fire."
Thursday, March 18, 2010
March 18, 2010
True authority is given by God. It comes by His word. We saw three examples today: Joshua, John the Baptist, and Jesus. God told Moses to give Joshua some of his authority to lead the people. John the Baptist was sent out by the word of God that came to him. Luke 3:2 Jesus was released into His ministry by the Spirit of God and the voice of the Father. 3:22 Each of these were also empowered by the Spirit of God.
Who operated in God's authority: John, who rebuked Herod the tetrarch for his wickedness, or Herod, who imprisoned John (and eventually had him beheaded)? What happens to people who usurp authority not given to them by God, or abuse the power of their position of authority? Are you able to discern when a leader is not submitted to God's authority? How do you respond to that situation?
All of us, including you, are given authority over some areas in life. What has God given you authority over? How do you know? What do you do with the authority that God has given you? Have you ever tried to take authority over something/someone that was not given to you? How did that turn out?
One way we can recognize our authority is by the fact that we have to make decisions. In what areas of life do you have to make decisions? We get into trouble when we start trying to make decisions in areas that are not under our authority.
Do you have trouble making decisions? God told Moses that Joshua would need to go to the priest, who would inquire for him "by the decision of the Urim before the Lord." Numbers 27:21 I have to admit that I haven't done research on the Urim and the Thummim of the Old Testament priesthood, even though it's always intrigued me. I have this picture of some stones lighting up with God's "yes" or His "no"! (I'd be happy to have a comment with any knowledge you might have on this.) Back then, they cast lots to make decisions, such as apportioning the land for the tribes' inheritances, trusting God to make the decisions. We don't have to cast lots now, because we have the Holy Spirit and we can hear the Lord's voice speaking directly to our hearts. Isn't that awesome?
"Peace" and "anxiety" are kind of like the Urim and Thummim to me. I go to the Lord with a decision and seek to hear His word on it. If I'm worrying over something, I wait for the peace of God about it before I do anything. Decisions based on fear don't turn out very well! I try to keep myself free from anxiety (e.g., anxiety stemming from consuming too much caffeine). Maintaining a peaceful spirit and quiet mind makes it easy for the Holy Spirit to use a "feeling" of anxiety as a quick warning system, to stop me from making a wrong decision, or to protect me from danger. I try to respond immediately to that. He can always explain later! I haven't mastered all this, but I've gotten a lot better at it with practice. [I have found that external "peace enhancers" interfere with my ability to be led by the Spirit. This doesn't mean that if you need to take prescribed tranquilizers that you should suddenly quit taking them; but it is a goal to work toward, maybe with the help of a therapist.]
The Good News is that when you're born of God, you're the brother or sister of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Almighty God is your Father! When was the last time you sat quietly with the Lord and heard Him say to your heart, "You are my Beloved son/daughter; with you I am well pleased." Shhhh. . .listen carefully. You'll hear Him, I know you will.
Who operated in God's authority: John, who rebuked Herod the tetrarch for his wickedness, or Herod, who imprisoned John (and eventually had him beheaded)? What happens to people who usurp authority not given to them by God, or abuse the power of their position of authority? Are you able to discern when a leader is not submitted to God's authority? How do you respond to that situation?
All of us, including you, are given authority over some areas in life. What has God given you authority over? How do you know? What do you do with the authority that God has given you? Have you ever tried to take authority over something/someone that was not given to you? How did that turn out?
One way we can recognize our authority is by the fact that we have to make decisions. In what areas of life do you have to make decisions? We get into trouble when we start trying to make decisions in areas that are not under our authority.
Do you have trouble making decisions? God told Moses that Joshua would need to go to the priest, who would inquire for him "by the decision of the Urim before the Lord." Numbers 27:21 I have to admit that I haven't done research on the Urim and the Thummim of the Old Testament priesthood, even though it's always intrigued me. I have this picture of some stones lighting up with God's "yes" or His "no"! (I'd be happy to have a comment with any knowledge you might have on this.) Back then, they cast lots to make decisions, such as apportioning the land for the tribes' inheritances, trusting God to make the decisions. We don't have to cast lots now, because we have the Holy Spirit and we can hear the Lord's voice speaking directly to our hearts. Isn't that awesome?
"Peace" and "anxiety" are kind of like the Urim and Thummim to me. I go to the Lord with a decision and seek to hear His word on it. If I'm worrying over something, I wait for the peace of God about it before I do anything. Decisions based on fear don't turn out very well! I try to keep myself free from anxiety (e.g., anxiety stemming from consuming too much caffeine). Maintaining a peaceful spirit and quiet mind makes it easy for the Holy Spirit to use a "feeling" of anxiety as a quick warning system, to stop me from making a wrong decision, or to protect me from danger. I try to respond immediately to that. He can always explain later! I haven't mastered all this, but I've gotten a lot better at it with practice. [I have found that external "peace enhancers" interfere with my ability to be led by the Spirit. This doesn't mean that if you need to take prescribed tranquilizers that you should suddenly quit taking them; but it is a goal to work toward, maybe with the help of a therapist.]
The Good News is that when you're born of God, you're the brother or sister of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Almighty God is your Father! When was the last time you sat quietly with the Lord and heard Him say to your heart, "You are my Beloved son/daughter; with you I am well pleased." Shhhh. . .listen carefully. You'll hear Him, I know you will.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
March 16, 2010
It isn't always our own wrongdoing or negative words that bring opposition to us. Sometimes its persecution from an enemy! How do we know the difference? We have to keep on inquiring of the Lord. If things are troubling us we need to go talk to the Lord about it. By allowing God to examine us, we avoid self-justification and blame-shifting, as well as condemnation and false guilt.
David wrote in Psalm 59 "Even now they lie in wait for my life; the mighty stir up strife against me. For no transgression or sin of mine, O Lord, for no fault of mine, they run and make ready." vs 3-4 All persecution arises from a real enemy who hates us: Satan. It can either come through direct activity of evil spirits, through people who are influenced by them, or from a worldly system that is given over to Satan. We should not blame everything that happens on the devil, for we can do a lot to ourselves through our choices, but we also should not ignore the fact that we have an aggressively evil foe. What do we do about this foe?
Obviously, I'm not going to go into a major teaching in this devotional on how to deal with the devil . But I will do what I've been doing all along, and that is, bring out what I see in the readings for the day. Today, I saw a few things about this:
1) recognize and proclaim that Jesus came to deliver us; the Good News is that we have a Savior! Luke 2: 10-11 (One of the things He came to save us from was Satan and his works: if this is something you don't understand yet, keep your eyes open for evidence of this as you continue reading this year.)
Follow David's example and
2) pray for deliverance and protection from your enemies (and like him, trust God and expect Him to do this). Psalm 59: 1-2
3) declare your faith and trust in God, and His goodness and faithfulness. vs 9-10
4) sing praises to God, remembering how He's protected you before.
5) trust in God's strength and not your own: "O my strength, I will watch for you; for you, O God, are my fortress." vs 9
The angel's message to the shepherds was "do not be afraid; for see-- I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people." Luke 2: 10 Praising God through declaration and singing reminds us of this good news. Fear doesn't survive in an atmosphere of praise. And if we've lost our joy, our peace will be the next to go. Get your joy and your peace back by praising the Lord. It's a great way to activate your shield of faith, and your spiritual enemy hates it and will run the other way!
David wrote in Psalm 59 "Even now they lie in wait for my life; the mighty stir up strife against me. For no transgression or sin of mine, O Lord, for no fault of mine, they run and make ready." vs 3-4 All persecution arises from a real enemy who hates us: Satan. It can either come through direct activity of evil spirits, through people who are influenced by them, or from a worldly system that is given over to Satan. We should not blame everything that happens on the devil, for we can do a lot to ourselves through our choices, but we also should not ignore the fact that we have an aggressively evil foe. What do we do about this foe?
Obviously, I'm not going to go into a major teaching in this devotional on how to deal with the devil . But I will do what I've been doing all along, and that is, bring out what I see in the readings for the day. Today, I saw a few things about this:
1) recognize and proclaim that Jesus came to deliver us; the Good News is that we have a Savior! Luke 2: 10-11 (One of the things He came to save us from was Satan and his works: if this is something you don't understand yet, keep your eyes open for evidence of this as you continue reading this year.)
Follow David's example and
2) pray for deliverance and protection from your enemies (and like him, trust God and expect Him to do this). Psalm 59: 1-2
3) declare your faith and trust in God, and His goodness and faithfulness. vs 9-10
4) sing praises to God, remembering how He's protected you before.
5) trust in God's strength and not your own: "O my strength, I will watch for you; for you, O God, are my fortress." vs 9
The angel's message to the shepherds was "do not be afraid; for see-- I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people." Luke 2: 10 Praising God through declaration and singing reminds us of this good news. Fear doesn't survive in an atmosphere of praise. And if we've lost our joy, our peace will be the next to go. Get your joy and your peace back by praising the Lord. It's a great way to activate your shield of faith, and your spiritual enemy hates it and will run the other way!
Monday, March 15, 2010
March 15, 2010
The Scripture readings for the last couple of days have spoken loudly to me about how people's words can steer the course of events. Yesterday, we read "By the blessing of the upright a city is exalted, but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked." Proverbs 11:11 Today, Proverbs says that sometimes we need to hold our tongue.
I could write a whole lot about this, but instead, I'd like to encourage you to check it out for yourself. How many examples can you find of people speaking words that influenced the future? Were they positive or negative?
I'll give you an example: look at Balaam and Zechariah. These two men were both supposed to speak words from God that would effect the nation of Israel. God had to intervene in each of these men's lives to keep them from opposing His plan with their words. Balaam was confronted by an angel and so was Zechariah. It was both these men's potential words that were an issue. When they accepted God's will and were willing to speak in agreement with it, they were each released to prophecy and bless.
Too many times, I find myself opposing the Lord by speaking negatively. I have discovered that it is not a peaceful place to be! It's this very lack of peace that opposes me and brings me around to seek for God's perspective on my life and circumstances, or His attitude towards people, and causes me to get my speaking in line with His.
What kinds of things have you found opposing you lately? Do you think it might have anything to do with what you've been saying?
I could write a whole lot about this, but instead, I'd like to encourage you to check it out for yourself. How many examples can you find of people speaking words that influenced the future? Were they positive or negative?
I'll give you an example: look at Balaam and Zechariah. These two men were both supposed to speak words from God that would effect the nation of Israel. God had to intervene in each of these men's lives to keep them from opposing His plan with their words. Balaam was confronted by an angel and so was Zechariah. It was both these men's potential words that were an issue. When they accepted God's will and were willing to speak in agreement with it, they were each released to prophecy and bless.
Too many times, I find myself opposing the Lord by speaking negatively. I have discovered that it is not a peaceful place to be! It's this very lack of peace that opposes me and brings me around to seek for God's perspective on my life and circumstances, or His attitude towards people, and causes me to get my speaking in line with His.
What kinds of things have you found opposing you lately? Do you think it might have anything to do with what you've been saying?
Saturday, March 13, 2010
March 13, 2010
Reading the Luke account of the story of Zechariah's visitation in the temple, I saw a different scenario than I had ever seen before. Not that anything different happened, but I saw it in a different way.
The angel Gabriel says to him, "Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard." Luke 1:13. Gabriel went on to tell him that his wife Elizabeth would finally bear him a son. I had always assumed that Zechariah had been praying for that son; but then I realized that, since he was standing before the altar of incense in the temple doing his priestly duties, when "the whole assembly of the people was praying outside," vs 10 that his prayers were for Israel: that God would "turn many of the people of Israel to the Lord their God." vs 16.
If bearing a son had simply been a private matter for Zechariah and Elizabeth, perhaps Gabriel would have visited them at home. But the angel's visit to the temple during worship and prayer marked a significant turn of events for Israel. I don't think Zechariah would have been quite so terrified when the angel showed up if it was usual then for the glory of God to appear in the temple. This must not have happened to him before, and was unexpected.
I also don't think that Zechariah had an expectation of receiving an answer to prayer about finally having a son. His reaction to the news, and Gabriel's response to it, indicate that he had given up having faith about that. I think it was Elizabeth who had the faith to have her womb opened. Her statement was, "This is what the Lord has done for me when he looked favorably on me and took away the disgrace I have endured among my people." vs 25 I don't believe she had ever stopped entreating the Lord about her barrenness.
God's goodness and wonderful timing are showcased here, answering two separate prayers concerning barrenness: a woman's and a nation's. God had a plan to not only bless a righteous couple who served Him, but to prepare His chosen people to receive the promised Messiah and the redemption He would bring.
I see an application for us personally. When we see the trouble around us, and take our cities and nations before the Lord in intercession, He will find a way to make us part of the answer. It may just be that the long-awaited answer to the deepest longing of our heart is part of God's plan to bring His redemptive power to work in our own personal area of influence. Isn't God awesome?
The angel Gabriel says to him, "Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard." Luke 1:13. Gabriel went on to tell him that his wife Elizabeth would finally bear him a son. I had always assumed that Zechariah had been praying for that son; but then I realized that, since he was standing before the altar of incense in the temple doing his priestly duties, when "the whole assembly of the people was praying outside," vs 10 that his prayers were for Israel: that God would "turn many of the people of Israel to the Lord their God." vs 16.
If bearing a son had simply been a private matter for Zechariah and Elizabeth, perhaps Gabriel would have visited them at home. But the angel's visit to the temple during worship and prayer marked a significant turn of events for Israel. I don't think Zechariah would have been quite so terrified when the angel showed up if it was usual then for the glory of God to appear in the temple. This must not have happened to him before, and was unexpected.
I also don't think that Zechariah had an expectation of receiving an answer to prayer about finally having a son. His reaction to the news, and Gabriel's response to it, indicate that he had given up having faith about that. I think it was Elizabeth who had the faith to have her womb opened. Her statement was, "This is what the Lord has done for me when he looked favorably on me and took away the disgrace I have endured among my people." vs 25 I don't believe she had ever stopped entreating the Lord about her barrenness.
God's goodness and wonderful timing are showcased here, answering two separate prayers concerning barrenness: a woman's and a nation's. God had a plan to not only bless a righteous couple who served Him, but to prepare His chosen people to receive the promised Messiah and the redemption He would bring.
I see an application for us personally. When we see the trouble around us, and take our cities and nations before the Lord in intercession, He will find a way to make us part of the answer. It may just be that the long-awaited answer to the deepest longing of our heart is part of God's plan to bring His redemptive power to work in our own personal area of influence. Isn't God awesome?
Friday, March 12, 2010
March 12, 2010
Do you ever wake up in the morning with a sense of dread? I do sometimes. I learned a long time ago, from Joyce Meyer, that dread is just another form of fear. Fear is a core issue in my life, as I am sure it is with many of you. It stems from my temperament and from past experiences. These, of course, are no excuse for allowing fear to torment me and hold me back. Fear is an internal enemy, and it must be overcome.
The Psalmist had some fear to deal with as well. In Psalm 55 you can see a progression of feelings: troubled, distraught, anguished of heart, terrors of death, fear and trembling, overwhelming horror. vs. 1-5 At this point, he no longer has any fight in him, and just wants to flee. I can totally relate to these things, having suffered for many years from chronic anxiety and panic disorder. I could end up there again, but I have learned to deal with fear when it's still in its "dread" stage. When I sense dread becoming a dark cloud in my life, I go to the Lord and ask Him to shed some light on its causes.
Continuing in Psalm 55, David lists some causes for the fear he is experiencing. We all have different things we fear-- things we're dealing with internally and externally. It's good to face the things we fear, and to face the fact that we're fearful, but the cause is not really the issue. The cure is what matters.
"But I call upon God, and the Lord will save me. . . cast your burden on the Lord, and He will sustain you. . . I will trust in [God]." vs 16, 22
Dread can lead to avoidance of the very things we love and need the most, and doing that can easily lead to depression. If for some reason you begin to feel a dread of going to the Lord for help or just to be with Him, determine in yourself now that you will resist that dread with determination to overcome. If we give in to dread on a regular basis, the subtle fear will eventually become an overwhelming phobia. Satan would love for you to have a "God-phobia" so you would avoid Him at all costs. This is not the holy "fear of the Lord," but a deadly deception. Cry out to the Lord for help whenever you begin to feel dread concerning Him or His Word.
The Psalmist had some fear to deal with as well. In Psalm 55 you can see a progression of feelings: troubled, distraught, anguished of heart, terrors of death, fear and trembling, overwhelming horror. vs. 1-5 At this point, he no longer has any fight in him, and just wants to flee. I can totally relate to these things, having suffered for many years from chronic anxiety and panic disorder. I could end up there again, but I have learned to deal with fear when it's still in its "dread" stage. When I sense dread becoming a dark cloud in my life, I go to the Lord and ask Him to shed some light on its causes.
Continuing in Psalm 55, David lists some causes for the fear he is experiencing. We all have different things we fear-- things we're dealing with internally and externally. It's good to face the things we fear, and to face the fact that we're fearful, but the cause is not really the issue. The cure is what matters.
"But I call upon God, and the Lord will save me. . . cast your burden on the Lord, and He will sustain you. . . I will trust in [God]." vs 16, 22
Dread can lead to avoidance of the very things we love and need the most, and doing that can easily lead to depression. If for some reason you begin to feel a dread of going to the Lord for help or just to be with Him, determine in yourself now that you will resist that dread with determination to overcome. If we give in to dread on a regular basis, the subtle fear will eventually become an overwhelming phobia. Satan would love for you to have a "God-phobia" so you would avoid Him at all costs. This is not the holy "fear of the Lord," but a deadly deception. Cry out to the Lord for help whenever you begin to feel dread concerning Him or His Word.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
March 10, 2010
Lately, I've been contemplating the concept of "mainstream." Wouldn't it be a great thing to reach so many people? And yet, as in today's reading, following the crowd can lead to direct opposition to God.
Having God's opinion and outlook, and standing up for it, can often put one into direct opposition to the crowd. Caleb and Joshua were the only ones who saw the Promised Land with eyes of faith. As it turned out, they were the only ones, of their generation, who were allowed to enter.
This makes my choice clear. Rather than seek to appeal to the masses, I must continue to seek for God's perspective and approval. As lonely as that can feel at times-- for someone like me who enjoys having people's approval-- I'd much rather have God's approval than "to win the whole world." I'll have to leave the winnings up to Him.
Having God's opinion and outlook, and standing up for it, can often put one into direct opposition to the crowd. Caleb and Joshua were the only ones who saw the Promised Land with eyes of faith. As it turned out, they were the only ones, of their generation, who were allowed to enter.
This makes my choice clear. Rather than seek to appeal to the masses, I must continue to seek for God's perspective and approval. As lonely as that can feel at times-- for someone like me who enjoys having people's approval-- I'd much rather have God's approval than "to win the whole world." I'll have to leave the winnings up to Him.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
March 9, 2010
Have you ever heard the term "spiritual pride"? I understand that people use the term to mean "proud over their spirituality" or something like that, but it seems to me that pride is anything but spiritual! Satan fell by being proud, didn't he?
Remember the reading from February 26?: "But when He [Jesus] had turned around and looked at His disciples, He rebuked Peter, saying, "Get behind Me, Satan! For you are not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men." Mark 8:33 No matter how "spiritual" we think we are, if we're in pride, we're not walking in the Spirit. If we're arguing with Jesus, we're taking sides with the devil! Satan is a spirit, but he became carnal by being proud.
All human beings have spirits, whether they walk with Christ or not, and all spirits are not of God! Does this change your point of view about non-Christians? About spirituality?
If you can get a handle on the truth that pride originates in your spirit, it will revolutionize your Christian walk! [Bonus: there's a reason humility isn't listed in the Fruits of the Spirit, Galatians 5:22-23. Humility is an attitude or position of the spirit, and it is your free-will choice; it takes humility to "walk in the Spirit" in order to bear fruit.]
Moses and Jesus both demonstrated, through their words and actions, what it is to be humble. They were submitted to God. "Now the man Moses was very humble, more so than anyone else on the face of the earth." Numbers 12:3 He had an intimate relationship with God. Jesus is the Son of God, and the most spiritual of all wouldn't you say, and He prayed, "Abba, Father, for you all things are possible; remove this cup from me; yet, not what I want, but what you want." Mark 14:36
The readings today show both Old Testament and New Testament examples of how pride is a spiritual issue, what the outcome is, and how to avoid it. In Numbers 11, God had just transferred some of the anointing Moses had onto seventy of the elders, and they prophesied. Although Joshua expressed some concern over this, Moses replied, "Are you jealous for my sake? Would that all the Lord's people were prophets, and that the Lord would put his spirit on them!" 11:28-29 I'm thinking some pride was exposed by this turn of events, for it wasn't long before Aaron and Miriam rose up in criticism of Moses saying, "Has the Lord spoken only through Moses? Has he not spoken through us also?" 12:1-2 Miriam must have instigated it, as she was the one who was disciplined. Do you think perhaps the Lord was giving a strong warning to those who had received the Spirit, not to walk in pride over it? How does this pertain to us?
Jesus' disciples seemed to have had the same problem. They'd been singled out to walk with Jesus day by day, and He had told them many things in private. I think they began to see themselves as very spiritual, so much so that they wouldn't receive a serious warning from Jesus. "Even though I must die with you, I will not deny you," said Peter. And all of them said the same, even though Jesus had just told them they would all run off. He gave Peter, James and John the chance to "keep awake and pray," but it seems that they were overwhelmed and went to sleep instead.
Pride does not watch and pray, but humility does. Pride falls into temptation, humility falls on its face before God.
"When pride comes, then comes disgrace; but wisdom is with the humble." Proverbs 11: 2
Remember the reading from February 26?: "But when He [Jesus] had turned around and looked at His disciples, He rebuked Peter, saying, "Get behind Me, Satan! For you are not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men." Mark 8:33 No matter how "spiritual" we think we are, if we're in pride, we're not walking in the Spirit. If we're arguing with Jesus, we're taking sides with the devil! Satan is a spirit, but he became carnal by being proud.
All human beings have spirits, whether they walk with Christ or not, and all spirits are not of God! Does this change your point of view about non-Christians? About spirituality?
If you can get a handle on the truth that pride originates in your spirit, it will revolutionize your Christian walk! [Bonus: there's a reason humility isn't listed in the Fruits of the Spirit, Galatians 5:22-23. Humility is an attitude or position of the spirit, and it is your free-will choice; it takes humility to "walk in the Spirit" in order to bear fruit.]
Moses and Jesus both demonstrated, through their words and actions, what it is to be humble. They were submitted to God. "Now the man Moses was very humble, more so than anyone else on the face of the earth." Numbers 12:3 He had an intimate relationship with God. Jesus is the Son of God, and the most spiritual of all wouldn't you say, and He prayed, "Abba, Father, for you all things are possible; remove this cup from me; yet, not what I want, but what you want." Mark 14:36
The readings today show both Old Testament and New Testament examples of how pride is a spiritual issue, what the outcome is, and how to avoid it. In Numbers 11, God had just transferred some of the anointing Moses had onto seventy of the elders, and they prophesied. Although Joshua expressed some concern over this, Moses replied, "Are you jealous for my sake? Would that all the Lord's people were prophets, and that the Lord would put his spirit on them!" 11:28-29 I'm thinking some pride was exposed by this turn of events, for it wasn't long before Aaron and Miriam rose up in criticism of Moses saying, "Has the Lord spoken only through Moses? Has he not spoken through us also?" 12:1-2 Miriam must have instigated it, as she was the one who was disciplined. Do you think perhaps the Lord was giving a strong warning to those who had received the Spirit, not to walk in pride over it? How does this pertain to us?
Jesus' disciples seemed to have had the same problem. They'd been singled out to walk with Jesus day by day, and He had told them many things in private. I think they began to see themselves as very spiritual, so much so that they wouldn't receive a serious warning from Jesus. "Even though I must die with you, I will not deny you," said Peter. And all of them said the same, even though Jesus had just told them they would all run off. He gave Peter, James and John the chance to "keep awake and pray," but it seems that they were overwhelmed and went to sleep instead.
Pride does not watch and pray, but humility does. Pride falls into temptation, humility falls on its face before God.
"When pride comes, then comes disgrace; but wisdom is with the humble." Proverbs 11: 2
Monday, March 8, 2010
March 8, 2010
It seems I have to be reminded on a regular basis not to grumble and complain! How many times have I read these scriptures and still forget? It is so easy to get disgruntled when what I see for the future doesn't match up to what seems to be taking place in the present. I tire of the suffering, or just the long waiting, and forget that through these things, Christ is preparing me for what is to come.
The Israelites grumbled at the Lord in the wilderness, lacking in faith. Even Moses doubted God's ability to provide meat for more than 600,000 people! God's answer: "Is the Lord's hand too short? (Is His power limited?)." God proved again that it was not, even though He had proven Himself many times over.
I learned from the lesson in Mark that Jesus already has a plan of provision for us-- even if we are only in the preparation stage-- and He will give us detailed intructions, if we will listen. Wouldn't you agree that following His instructions would be good preparation? "So the disciples set out and went to the city, and found everything as he had told them; and they prepared the Passover meal." Mark 14:16 He prepared them for preparation of a meal that would prepare them further for more preparation!
Sometimes I get lost in the preparations, forgetting that there is a destination. Or I get tired of the preparations and quit, despairing of ever getting to my goal. If we quit, we'll never get there! But if we'll remember that He Himself is our true destination, we will keep our eyes on Him and abide in Him. Thus we are already there and getting there all at once!
I believe that Mark also shows us a key for continuing in perseverance with faith, hope and love, instead of grumbling and complaining: worship! The woman with the alabaster jar of ointment is a wonderful example of what to do in a confusing time of preparation. She obviously had an understanding of who Jesus was and what was going to happen. She knew they were all going to go through an extremely trying time, and yet she gave sacrificially in an extravagant expression of heartfelt devotion, thanksgiving and trust for the future. Jesus commended her for it with great enthusiasm, for it obviously pleased Him.
If the Israelites had remembered God's former deliverances and provisions rather than call to mind their former life and complain about the present, and if they had kept their eyes on "the prize"-- the Promised Land and the Giver of the Promise-- they would have remained in a place of thanksgiving and worship, trusting in the Lord and His goodness. We have the same choices everyday, do we not? I am reminded again to choose the attitudes and behaviors that please Him.
The Israelites grumbled at the Lord in the wilderness, lacking in faith. Even Moses doubted God's ability to provide meat for more than 600,000 people! God's answer: "Is the Lord's hand too short? (Is His power limited?)." God proved again that it was not, even though He had proven Himself many times over.
I learned from the lesson in Mark that Jesus already has a plan of provision for us-- even if we are only in the preparation stage-- and He will give us detailed intructions, if we will listen. Wouldn't you agree that following His instructions would be good preparation? "So the disciples set out and went to the city, and found everything as he had told them; and they prepared the Passover meal." Mark 14:16 He prepared them for preparation of a meal that would prepare them further for more preparation!
Sometimes I get lost in the preparations, forgetting that there is a destination. Or I get tired of the preparations and quit, despairing of ever getting to my goal. If we quit, we'll never get there! But if we'll remember that He Himself is our true destination, we will keep our eyes on Him and abide in Him. Thus we are already there and getting there all at once!
I believe that Mark also shows us a key for continuing in perseverance with faith, hope and love, instead of grumbling and complaining: worship! The woman with the alabaster jar of ointment is a wonderful example of what to do in a confusing time of preparation. She obviously had an understanding of who Jesus was and what was going to happen. She knew they were all going to go through an extremely trying time, and yet she gave sacrificially in an extravagant expression of heartfelt devotion, thanksgiving and trust for the future. Jesus commended her for it with great enthusiasm, for it obviously pleased Him.
If the Israelites had remembered God's former deliverances and provisions rather than call to mind their former life and complain about the present, and if they had kept their eyes on "the prize"-- the Promised Land and the Giver of the Promise-- they would have remained in a place of thanksgiving and worship, trusting in the Lord and His goodness. We have the same choices everyday, do we not? I am reminded again to choose the attitudes and behaviors that please Him.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
March 6, 2010
We could think God contradicted Himself if we read (out of context) "Truly, no ransom avails for one's life, there is no price one can give to God for it. For the ransom of life is costly, and can never suffice that one should live on forever and never see the grave." Psalm 49: 1-20. But if we read on, the same psalm states: "But God will ransom my soul from the power of Sheol, for he will receive me." vs 15. What a great prophesy of Christ's ransom for us! It truly shows that there was no way of redemption except Him, but that God, indeed, had always promised a Way.
Obviously, the first verse speaks of a person trying to redeem himself or another, and that there is no amount of riches capable of redeeming us. Christ's life and sacrifice was SO valuable that it sufficed to redeem any and all who would receive Him-- forever! As an aside, these verses really shows how valuable we are to God, and should increase our own concept of worth, and change how we value ourselves and others.
Unfortunately, (pun intended), there are many people who still trust in riches to save them, and many nations who do as well. Is ours one of them, do you think? Do you think that false messiahs who come along-- with schemes to deceive-- might try to wield worldly wealth and power as a means of solving the world's problems? Have you ever seen this type of deception in the Church itself? Does it seem logical to you that any amount of wealth could help with the types of trouble that Jesus prophesied for the end times, and that we see ourselves in the midst of now? Mark 12: 7-8
Jesus was also clear that much of the end-time trouble would be between people, with rampant betrayal and hatred, even among relatives: "because of my name." He directed us to trust the Holy Spirit to give us the words to say, and told us to "endure until the end." vs 9-13
I see a flip-side to the principle that no amount of wealth can redeem us. It seems to me that no amount of wealth (which equates to worldly power) can "buy God off" either! Who could pay God enough to "un-redeem" us? Who could be wealthy enough to take us to court and condemn us when we have a Righteous Advocate on our side? Christ! If God is for us, who can be against us? An entire nation? The whole world system? None of these powers could redeem us, and none of them can destroy us either. We are truly safe IN the Lord! It might be unpleasant or painful for a while, but all we need is endurance to see the salvation of God, and His promise of eternal life.
"Why should I fear in times of trouble, when the iniquity of my persecutors surrounds me, those who trust in their wealth and boast of the abundance of their riches?" Psalm 49: 5-6
Jesus is not swayed, influenced or impressed by riches and worldly power. This is clear in the beginning of the Mark passage. He does not judge by outward appearance, but sees the heart. He saw through the pomp of the religious leaders of the day, and He commended the poor widow for offering all she had because of her love for God. He hasn't changed!
When we give ourselves totally to Him, this is a great treasure that He accepts. In return, He gives Himself totally to us. What, then, have we to fear?
Obviously, the first verse speaks of a person trying to redeem himself or another, and that there is no amount of riches capable of redeeming us. Christ's life and sacrifice was SO valuable that it sufficed to redeem any and all who would receive Him-- forever! As an aside, these verses really shows how valuable we are to God, and should increase our own concept of worth, and change how we value ourselves and others.
Unfortunately, (pun intended), there are many people who still trust in riches to save them, and many nations who do as well. Is ours one of them, do you think? Do you think that false messiahs who come along-- with schemes to deceive-- might try to wield worldly wealth and power as a means of solving the world's problems? Have you ever seen this type of deception in the Church itself? Does it seem logical to you that any amount of wealth could help with the types of trouble that Jesus prophesied for the end times, and that we see ourselves in the midst of now? Mark 12: 7-8
Jesus was also clear that much of the end-time trouble would be between people, with rampant betrayal and hatred, even among relatives: "because of my name." He directed us to trust the Holy Spirit to give us the words to say, and told us to "endure until the end." vs 9-13
I see a flip-side to the principle that no amount of wealth can redeem us. It seems to me that no amount of wealth (which equates to worldly power) can "buy God off" either! Who could pay God enough to "un-redeem" us? Who could be wealthy enough to take us to court and condemn us when we have a Righteous Advocate on our side? Christ! If God is for us, who can be against us? An entire nation? The whole world system? None of these powers could redeem us, and none of them can destroy us either. We are truly safe IN the Lord! It might be unpleasant or painful for a while, but all we need is endurance to see the salvation of God, and His promise of eternal life.
"Why should I fear in times of trouble, when the iniquity of my persecutors surrounds me, those who trust in their wealth and boast of the abundance of their riches?" Psalm 49: 5-6
Jesus is not swayed, influenced or impressed by riches and worldly power. This is clear in the beginning of the Mark passage. He does not judge by outward appearance, but sees the heart. He saw through the pomp of the religious leaders of the day, and He commended the poor widow for offering all she had because of her love for God. He hasn't changed!
When we give ourselves totally to Him, this is a great treasure that He accepts. In return, He gives Himself totally to us. What, then, have we to fear?
Friday, March 5, 2010
March 5, 2010
I come to the Scriptures to meet with Jesus and hear from Him! When I do this, I come away feeling enriched and strengthened. If I don't (meaning I just approached the Bible-reading as a religious habit or obligation), I tend to feel irritated, impatient, confused or bored-- especially when reading such Old Testament books as Leviticus and Numbers! And if I did not allow the Spirit of Truth to aid me in my studies, I would very often end up in error. I am glad the Spirit is always available to lead us into all truth, and to reveal Christ in His Word. I put my confidence in Him.
Even the Jews of Jesus' day had trouble understanding the Scriptures they were brought up with. In the Mark passage, Jesus said that the Sadducees (learned men of the Book) were wrong because "you know neither the scriptures nor the power of God." Mark 2:24 On the other hand, He commended the wisdom of the scribe and said, "You are not far from the Kingdom of God." 12:34 Jesus distillation of the Commandments gives us a good template with which to begin studying the Scriptures: how does this passage help me love the Lord my God with my whole being, and what does it teach me about loving others? 12:29
When I see the Law books as a vivid and symbolic expression of God's heart, they become as revelatory to me as Revelations or the Prophets. Did you see, in the Numbers description of the "test for faithfulness," the holy jealousy of the Lord over His Bride? Have you ever experienced His written Word becoming a painful revelation of sin in your heart? I have! I am grateful that it doesn't stop there, and that Jesus took the curse Himself.
Jesus speaks prophetically over us: "you SHALL love the Lord your God with all your heart. . ." and He is bringing it to pass. He is drawing us to Himself, and His Word washes us clean. Although it often hurts, we are wise to keep coming back for more.
Even the Jews of Jesus' day had trouble understanding the Scriptures they were brought up with. In the Mark passage, Jesus said that the Sadducees (learned men of the Book) were wrong because "you know neither the scriptures nor the power of God." Mark 2:24 On the other hand, He commended the wisdom of the scribe and said, "You are not far from the Kingdom of God." 12:34 Jesus distillation of the Commandments gives us a good template with which to begin studying the Scriptures: how does this passage help me love the Lord my God with my whole being, and what does it teach me about loving others? 12:29
When I see the Law books as a vivid and symbolic expression of God's heart, they become as revelatory to me as Revelations or the Prophets. Did you see, in the Numbers description of the "test for faithfulness," the holy jealousy of the Lord over His Bride? Have you ever experienced His written Word becoming a painful revelation of sin in your heart? I have! I am grateful that it doesn't stop there, and that Jesus took the curse Himself.
Jesus speaks prophetically over us: "you SHALL love the Lord your God with all your heart. . ." and He is bringing it to pass. He is drawing us to Himself, and His Word washes us clean. Although it often hurts, we are wise to keep coming back for more.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
March 2, 2010
I love Psalm 45 and it's beautiful description of our glorious King-- and of the Bride! Don't you? It has advice to her on how to please Him as well. As I meditate on this, my love for Him is increased, as is my desire to be seated with Him to rule and reign.
It seems that James and John, the sons of Zebedee, had a glimpse into this calling, but perhaps their desire was not pure-- worldly ambition tingeing the dream. Isn't this true of all of us to one extent or another? If we want to "qualify," then, we'll follow Jesus' clear instructions. He led the way Himself, for He "came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many." Mark 10:45 It is not the way we picture a King preparing to take his throne, is it?
Jesus is the Way, and as we walk in Him, we will have our motives purified in the baptism of fire, we will drink a cup of suffering with Him as we follow Him in service, and we will be changed into His image and likeness as we submit to His leading, until we are humble and habitually lay down our lives as He did. He will make us ready to sit with Him if we are willing to walk with Him, stand up for Him, and bow down to Him.
It seems that James and John, the sons of Zebedee, had a glimpse into this calling, but perhaps their desire was not pure-- worldly ambition tingeing the dream. Isn't this true of all of us to one extent or another? If we want to "qualify," then, we'll follow Jesus' clear instructions. He led the way Himself, for He "came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many." Mark 10:45 It is not the way we picture a King preparing to take his throne, is it?
Jesus is the Way, and as we walk in Him, we will have our motives purified in the baptism of fire, we will drink a cup of suffering with Him as we follow Him in service, and we will be changed into His image and likeness as we submit to His leading, until we are humble and habitually lay down our lives as He did. He will make us ready to sit with Him if we are willing to walk with Him, stand up for Him, and bow down to Him.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
