I want to encourage someone today, specifically regarding their testimony and what God has done in their life.
Most of the time, when we think about sharing our testimony, we think that it has to include the following elements: being addicted to drugs, being a prostitute, a murderer,or being sick with a deadly illness (of course this is not an exhaustive list, but I hope you get the point I'm trying to make). Sometimes we believe, that unless we've come from such a shady past or impossible circumstance, then our testimony isn't powerful enough to reach people.
That is such a lie!!!
Yes, hearing stories about how God has delivered someone from addiction or has healed someone who was on a deathbed makes an impact, but it won't impact everyone.
What are you really saying when you believe that your testimony, YOURS, isn't good enough? You are saying that God didn't really make that big of an impact in your life. You are negating all that He has done.
The truth is, there are a lot of "average" people out there who are moving along in their day to day lives without the hope of eternity. They can't relate to being addicted or being in such dire circumstances that the only hope left for them was God. However, they need Jesus just as much as the drug addict or murderer. If we have a bunch of people from one walk of life going around sharing their testimony to these "average" people, then they will believe that they need to fit within that framework as well in order to need Jesus. But the beautiful thing is, Jesus can come and make an impact in their lives just as much as if they were in those hopeless circumstances.
There is something that we all have in common: We are lost in sin and we all need forgiveness of sin. We are (or were) walking around without any hope for eternity. We all face difficult circumstances, all of different degrees. We are unique!! Your testimony may be the missing piece of someone else's puzzle to help them see the whole picture.
Monday, October 15, 2012
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
The Old Manipulation Tactics...
How many times have you tried to manipulate circumstances around you to achieve a desired outcome?
What a fruitless effort!
I have never been successful at this feat, and when, by chance, I did receive something I thought I so desperetely wanted, it never lived up to the expecation of my heart.
Why is that?
I really have no idea. But one thing that has been brought to my attention lately is that if you are a child of God, you have no need to manipulate the circumstances of your life, because God will work everything out according to His plan for you. The problem is, we usually don't want to wait for it to happen.
I noticed something very interesting as I was reading in 2 Samuel last night. In chapter 1, it begins with the death of King Saul and his son Jonathan, and the end of his reign over Israel.
What was the interesting part? It was the fact that when someone reported to David regarding the deaths, they brought Saul's crown with them and laid it at the feet of David. They brought it to him. He did not go a get it.
If you know any history regarding the story of David and Saul, then you know that David was anointed as the next king over Israel when the LORD discovered that Saul was not fit for the job. However, David did not immediately take his rightful place as king. In fact, David waited a very long time to become king.
David had many opportunites to take the throne from Saul. David had several opportunites to take Saul's very life, but he never did.
Why?
I believe it's because David understood this principle of being a child of God. The principle of the sovereignty of God to make the plans He had spoken over David's life to come to pass, in His own timing.
David felt no need whatsoever to control the circumstances of him becoming the king of Israel. He trusted God to do what He said He was going to do.
How difficult that would have been for me!! When God speaks something over my life, I want to see it immediately! I don't want to wait for it, and, I find myself trying to control every aspect, in order to ensure it comes to pass. What unnecessary stress I add to my life! What an anxiety provoking activity!
But, I've learned something very valuable from David's life. God will lay everything at my feet when it is time. God will bring it to me. I will not have to pursue it.
Am I promoting passivity? Absolutely not! While I'm not actively pursuing, or rather manipulating the outcome of my life, I am actively pursuing my Lord. When I seek Him, He provides the rest, so that I may rest in His promises!
What a fruitless effort!
I have never been successful at this feat, and when, by chance, I did receive something I thought I so desperetely wanted, it never lived up to the expecation of my heart.
Why is that?
I really have no idea. But one thing that has been brought to my attention lately is that if you are a child of God, you have no need to manipulate the circumstances of your life, because God will work everything out according to His plan for you. The problem is, we usually don't want to wait for it to happen.
I noticed something very interesting as I was reading in 2 Samuel last night. In chapter 1, it begins with the death of King Saul and his son Jonathan, and the end of his reign over Israel.
What was the interesting part? It was the fact that when someone reported to David regarding the deaths, they brought Saul's crown with them and laid it at the feet of David. They brought it to him. He did not go a get it.
If you know any history regarding the story of David and Saul, then you know that David was anointed as the next king over Israel when the LORD discovered that Saul was not fit for the job. However, David did not immediately take his rightful place as king. In fact, David waited a very long time to become king.
David had many opportunites to take the throne from Saul. David had several opportunites to take Saul's very life, but he never did.
Why?
I believe it's because David understood this principle of being a child of God. The principle of the sovereignty of God to make the plans He had spoken over David's life to come to pass, in His own timing.
David felt no need whatsoever to control the circumstances of him becoming the king of Israel. He trusted God to do what He said He was going to do.
How difficult that would have been for me!! When God speaks something over my life, I want to see it immediately! I don't want to wait for it, and, I find myself trying to control every aspect, in order to ensure it comes to pass. What unnecessary stress I add to my life! What an anxiety provoking activity!
But, I've learned something very valuable from David's life. God will lay everything at my feet when it is time. God will bring it to me. I will not have to pursue it.
Am I promoting passivity? Absolutely not! While I'm not actively pursuing, or rather manipulating the outcome of my life, I am actively pursuing my Lord. When I seek Him, He provides the rest, so that I may rest in His promises!
Thursday, August 30, 2012
The Problem of Perplexity
In the mornings, before my son leaves for school, I have him listen to an audio Bible on my iPhone. They have one that is read by children, for children, and it's just a few short verses to start the day off right.
This morning, the text was 2 Corinthians 4: 1-12. As I was listening to the podcast, the words that were spoken began to grasp my spiritual attention. After the podcast was finished, I pulled up the text on my Bible app to read again, aloud. As I was reading those Scriptures something very interesting really stuck out to me. It was verse 8: "We are pressured in every way but not crushed; we are perplexed but not in despair..."
We are perplexed but not in despair.
We are perplexed....but not in despair.
As I read those words aloud, I began to get teary-eyed and hope began to return to me.
You see, I don't know about you, but there are a lot of things about my walk with God that perplex me. The problem of perplexity is that it has a way of despairing us. When I allow myself to become perplexed about something, I tend to lose all hope about that situation, because I simply don't understand it. I don't like not understanding something!
So here's the wonderful thing: we can be perplexed and be hopeful at the same time! How is this possible, you ask? It's made possible through faith.
Faith tells us that, despite not understanding something fully, we know that God has our best interest in heart. It's not a blind faith, but a seasoned faith, a tested faith. A faith that has been proven valid, because God has proven Himself faithful to us.
It's wonderful news for me, because it means I don't have to have all the answers in order for the plans that God has for my life to come into fruition.
So, I want to encourage anyone out there who may be experiencing some perplexity about a particular situation. Do not allow yourself to be in despair. If you continue reading that chapter, we are encouraged to trust not in what we can see, but in what we cannot see (v.18).
Trust in the unseen hand of the Almighty, the One who makes ALL things work together for your good!
This morning, the text was 2 Corinthians 4: 1-12. As I was listening to the podcast, the words that were spoken began to grasp my spiritual attention. After the podcast was finished, I pulled up the text on my Bible app to read again, aloud. As I was reading those Scriptures something very interesting really stuck out to me. It was verse 8: "We are pressured in every way but not crushed; we are perplexed but not in despair..."
We are perplexed but not in despair.
We are perplexed....but not in despair.
As I read those words aloud, I began to get teary-eyed and hope began to return to me.
You see, I don't know about you, but there are a lot of things about my walk with God that perplex me. The problem of perplexity is that it has a way of despairing us. When I allow myself to become perplexed about something, I tend to lose all hope about that situation, because I simply don't understand it. I don't like not understanding something!
So here's the wonderful thing: we can be perplexed and be hopeful at the same time! How is this possible, you ask? It's made possible through faith.
Faith tells us that, despite not understanding something fully, we know that God has our best interest in heart. It's not a blind faith, but a seasoned faith, a tested faith. A faith that has been proven valid, because God has proven Himself faithful to us.
It's wonderful news for me, because it means I don't have to have all the answers in order for the plans that God has for my life to come into fruition.
So, I want to encourage anyone out there who may be experiencing some perplexity about a particular situation. Do not allow yourself to be in despair. If you continue reading that chapter, we are encouraged to trust not in what we can see, but in what we cannot see (v.18).
Trust in the unseen hand of the Almighty, the One who makes ALL things work together for your good!
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
The Father's Heart
How can we know God?
How can we find out what it is He has planned for us?
How do we discover His heart? How do we understand His love? How do we even know that He loves us?
These are questions that I'm sure most people have asked themselves, or others, at least once in their lifetime. We all have an innate desire to discover why we are here, and how we got here in the first place. We ask if there really is a God, and if there is, what is He like?
How do we go about answering these tough questions? Along with these questions comes a pleathora of others, such as, "If God does exist, why is there evil in the world?" Or, "Why does God allow bad things to happen to good people? Why is there sickness? Why is there death?" As little as we know about God, we do have an understanding that if God were good, He would allow good things to happen.
Are there answers to these questions? Sure there are, but most of the time they are not answers we want to hear. However, I'm not writing this post to answer those questions. I'm writing this because today I thought about the life of Jesus, and the words He spoke while He walked this earth. If they are true, they have a profound impact on how we view who God is.
You see, Jesus claimed that He was sent by His Father, and He claimed that His Father was God. The God who created the universe and who created us. That's a pretty wild statement!
Along with His claims, He performed many miracles, such as healing the sick, raising the dead, giving the blind sight, and allowing the deaf ears to hear. He had compassion on the poor, He loved children, and He fed the hungry. He spoke to people that most of us would never associate ourselves with, and hung out with prostitutes and thieves. He even provided mercy to a woman who was accused of adultery (a crime in that day that was punishable by death).
What does all this mean and how does it change how we view God?
Jesus said that He came not to do His will, but the will of His Father. He also said that if you have seen Him, you have seen the Father as well (John 14). Granted this does not settle the question of why there is suffering and evil in this world, but it does show us God's plan of redemption. His desire is that we be healed of sickness and be set free from things that hold us back from being all that we can be. His desire is that we be whole, physically and spiritually.
Although we witness heartache and disappointment and sickness in our lives, God's plan and heart is for us to allow Him to step into those very circumstances and bring redemption. He does not want us to suffer the consequences of sin in our lives: "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 6:23
You see, we all deserve death. All of us!! But God's heart for us was so compelled by love that He could not stand the thought of us living in eternal punishment. So He stepped into the scene of history and of our lives. He revealed Himself to us through His Son Jesus Christ. In Christ we see who God really is. He is a compassionate Father, who desires to bring us restoration from all the consequences sin has had on our lives. What greater love is there?
The Father's heart is for us to be well. His heart is for us to be whole. His heart is to come to us, in our messed up, crazy world. He wants to give us the greatest gift that is available to all humankind: the gift of life.
Are you willing to believe?
How can we find out what it is He has planned for us?
How do we discover His heart? How do we understand His love? How do we even know that He loves us?
These are questions that I'm sure most people have asked themselves, or others, at least once in their lifetime. We all have an innate desire to discover why we are here, and how we got here in the first place. We ask if there really is a God, and if there is, what is He like?
How do we go about answering these tough questions? Along with these questions comes a pleathora of others, such as, "If God does exist, why is there evil in the world?" Or, "Why does God allow bad things to happen to good people? Why is there sickness? Why is there death?" As little as we know about God, we do have an understanding that if God were good, He would allow good things to happen.
Are there answers to these questions? Sure there are, but most of the time they are not answers we want to hear. However, I'm not writing this post to answer those questions. I'm writing this because today I thought about the life of Jesus, and the words He spoke while He walked this earth. If they are true, they have a profound impact on how we view who God is.
You see, Jesus claimed that He was sent by His Father, and He claimed that His Father was God. The God who created the universe and who created us. That's a pretty wild statement!
Along with His claims, He performed many miracles, such as healing the sick, raising the dead, giving the blind sight, and allowing the deaf ears to hear. He had compassion on the poor, He loved children, and He fed the hungry. He spoke to people that most of us would never associate ourselves with, and hung out with prostitutes and thieves. He even provided mercy to a woman who was accused of adultery (a crime in that day that was punishable by death).
What does all this mean and how does it change how we view God?
Jesus said that He came not to do His will, but the will of His Father. He also said that if you have seen Him, you have seen the Father as well (John 14). Granted this does not settle the question of why there is suffering and evil in this world, but it does show us God's plan of redemption. His desire is that we be healed of sickness and be set free from things that hold us back from being all that we can be. His desire is that we be whole, physically and spiritually.
Although we witness heartache and disappointment and sickness in our lives, God's plan and heart is for us to allow Him to step into those very circumstances and bring redemption. He does not want us to suffer the consequences of sin in our lives: "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 6:23
You see, we all deserve death. All of us!! But God's heart for us was so compelled by love that He could not stand the thought of us living in eternal punishment. So He stepped into the scene of history and of our lives. He revealed Himself to us through His Son Jesus Christ. In Christ we see who God really is. He is a compassionate Father, who desires to bring us restoration from all the consequences sin has had on our lives. What greater love is there?
The Father's heart is for us to be well. His heart is for us to be whole. His heart is to come to us, in our messed up, crazy world. He wants to give us the greatest gift that is available to all humankind: the gift of life.
Are you willing to believe?
Monday, August 6, 2012
Death and Life
We carry the death of Jesus in our own bodies so that the life of Jesus can also be seen in our bodies. 2 Corinthians 4:10
This verse is prefaced by Paul recounting all the troubles that he and his missionary team had faced. Difficulties that have come against them, but that have not overtaken them. He equates these sufferings with the sufferings of Jesus and concludes that they simply are a continuance of the death of Jesus being displayed in their lives, in order for the life of Christ to be displayed. With Christ as an example, we see that before the dawn there is darkness. Before Christ could triumph over the grave, He first had to die. The same is true in the life of a believer. In order for the life of Jesus to make us truly alive, we first have to die as Jesus died. This should help us look at suffering from a new perspective. Not to minimize suffering in anyway, but to realize its ultimate purpose. To realize how God can take ALL things and use it for our good. To show us how He truly is a redeemer. God wastes nothing but makes ALL things new. When we face trials and uncertainties, we can look at them as an opportunity to carry the death of Jesus, in order that the life of Jesus may also be evidenced. If Jesus did not shirk away from the death He faced, neither should His disciples. It should be considered an opportunity for death to be swallowed up in victory (Isaiah 25:8, I Corin. 15: 54)
This verse is prefaced by Paul recounting all the troubles that he and his missionary team had faced. Difficulties that have come against them, but that have not overtaken them. He equates these sufferings with the sufferings of Jesus and concludes that they simply are a continuance of the death of Jesus being displayed in their lives, in order for the life of Christ to be displayed. With Christ as an example, we see that before the dawn there is darkness. Before Christ could triumph over the grave, He first had to die. The same is true in the life of a believer. In order for the life of Jesus to make us truly alive, we first have to die as Jesus died. This should help us look at suffering from a new perspective. Not to minimize suffering in anyway, but to realize its ultimate purpose. To realize how God can take ALL things and use it for our good. To show us how He truly is a redeemer. God wastes nothing but makes ALL things new. When we face trials and uncertainties, we can look at them as an opportunity to carry the death of Jesus, in order that the life of Jesus may also be evidenced. If Jesus did not shirk away from the death He faced, neither should His disciples. It should be considered an opportunity for death to be swallowed up in victory (Isaiah 25:8, I Corin. 15: 54)
Monday, April 23, 2012
Psalm 119
In this life we have many options to help guide us on our journey. We have multiple sources of information to glean from: books, the internet, peers, family members, the news. It seems that we have become such an information rich society that it is almost overwhelming to make a choice regarding the route to go. It can also be very distracting, especially with the mobility of technology. However, there is one source that is always the best choice; that source is God's Word.
Psalm 119 is an exposition regarding the importance of God's instruction. The writer of this Psalm discusses how the LORD's Word guides him, comforts him, keeps him, and guards him. The writer is an eager student ready and willing to be taught in the ways of God. The writer even talks about going through affliction, yet still trusting and hoping in God's Word (vv. 81-88). He also shares the reward given to those who are obedient to God's guidance: life (v.93).
I enjoy reading through this Psalm periodically. It helps bring back the perspective that I need to keep in my life. That perspective is that I need the Lord's guidance every day in my life. I can become so distracted by the many options of guidance that are available to me, that I forget the basics of God's Word and His promise to guide me. Even well meaning Christian sources, such as topical books or teaching guides, can become a distraction. I believe they are very helpful to the believer, but if one relies on them too much, it could become as if it is a replacement for the Bible. When we have questions or need help making a decision, our first source that we run to should always be the Bible. We can always count on that being a true and honest witness to what God wants us to know.
My challenge to you today is to read through this Psalm. Let it ignite a fire in your heart to seek God through His Word. Shut out all the other voices and sources of information for today and take time to meditate on Scripture. Pray and ask God to give you a desire for His instruction and the willingness to be obedient. Through it, you will receive exaclty what you need.
Psalm 119 is an exposition regarding the importance of God's instruction. The writer of this Psalm discusses how the LORD's Word guides him, comforts him, keeps him, and guards him. The writer is an eager student ready and willing to be taught in the ways of God. The writer even talks about going through affliction, yet still trusting and hoping in God's Word (vv. 81-88). He also shares the reward given to those who are obedient to God's guidance: life (v.93).
I enjoy reading through this Psalm periodically. It helps bring back the perspective that I need to keep in my life. That perspective is that I need the Lord's guidance every day in my life. I can become so distracted by the many options of guidance that are available to me, that I forget the basics of God's Word and His promise to guide me. Even well meaning Christian sources, such as topical books or teaching guides, can become a distraction. I believe they are very helpful to the believer, but if one relies on them too much, it could become as if it is a replacement for the Bible. When we have questions or need help making a decision, our first source that we run to should always be the Bible. We can always count on that being a true and honest witness to what God wants us to know.
My challenge to you today is to read through this Psalm. Let it ignite a fire in your heart to seek God through His Word. Shut out all the other voices and sources of information for today and take time to meditate on Scripture. Pray and ask God to give you a desire for His instruction and the willingness to be obedient. Through it, you will receive exaclty what you need.
Monday, February 20, 2012
Running to Win
The day of the big race is here. I've trained for months preparing for this day, and it's finally here. My heart beats fast as the adrenaline pumps through my body. Will I make it? I don't know. The only thing I know is that I want that crown; I want that gold; I want to win. All I can think about is the sacrifices I've made; waking up early just to get a run in before work, late nights at the gym, pushing forward when I couldn't push anymore. Man, I want this so bad. Fear begins to set in. What if I trip? So what, I'll get up and finish anyway. Will anyone laugh at me? My hands begin to sweat. Shake it off. Focus. Focus on that prize! The gold! My dream! I can almost taste it, it's so close! It's time. They call the runners to their starting places. Deep breaths in and out. I've got this. I've ran this run a million times. I have my time down to a science. As long as all goes well, I have nothing to worry about. The gun goes off, I flinch, then start. Faster and faster I move as I try to catch up with the others. Nothing can get in my way now. I take fourth place, than third. Second is coming close, but the runner catches his momentum, sustaining me in third. Push! Go! My legs begin to feel the sting. I'm gaining on him now. He tries his best, but I eventually take his place. Now, to take the prize. I didn't make all those sacrifices for nothing! I want that gold! Thump, thump, thump. Is that my feet or my heart? I push harder, taking short breaths, trying to feed off the stamina. I'm getting closer and closer. Finally, I pass the first runner by. I did it, I'm in first place. I can see the finish line, I can taste the Victory. Only a few yards to go, I can feel myself wanting to give in to the pressure. My body screams to be released from the strain, but I don't listen. I never listen. I know my goal and I will settle for no less. Harder I go and then I feel the finish line break against my chest. Oh the joy! Oh the pain of the sacrifice! Oh the sweetness of victory! I hold the evidence of my hard work in my hands. It's cold against my drenched skin. I hold it high, for all to see, I've won this race, I've won for me!
"You know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize. So run to win! All those who compete in the games use self control so they can win a crown. That crown is an earthly thing that lasts only a short time, but our crown will never be destroyed. So I do not run without a goal. I fight like a boxer who is hitting something-not just the air. I treat my body hard and make it my slave so that I myself will not be disqualified after I have preached to others." 1 Corinthians 9:24-27
"You know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize. So run to win! All those who compete in the games use self control so they can win a crown. That crown is an earthly thing that lasts only a short time, but our crown will never be destroyed. So I do not run without a goal. I fight like a boxer who is hitting something-not just the air. I treat my body hard and make it my slave so that I myself will not be disqualified after I have preached to others." 1 Corinthians 9:24-27
Sunday, February 12, 2012
The Silent Treatment
The Holy Spirit often uses simple, daily incidents to teach me deep, profound truths.
The other day, me and my son were driving somewhere and he asked if we could go to McDonald's. I complied to his request and was on my way. But, the whole way there, my son kept saying over and over again, "Are we going to McDonald's? I thought you said we could go?" I confirmed, that yes, we are going, and we will be there in a minute. However, this did not soothe his worries. He still kept asking. As I was growing weary of repeating myself, I decided to remain silent, and figured soon enough he would know when we arrived.
It made me think of my Lord. How many times have I, after being given a promise, continued to ask and ask, "Lord, are we going? I thought you said...," only to be given the silent treatment. Maybe, sometimes, when we don't hear an answer to our questions, it's because God knows where He's taking us, and soon enough, we will too. If God's in the driver's seat, we can be assured that He's taking us to our promised destination; and if He's silent along the way, it's not a sign that He's forgotten, only a quiet confidence in His ability to guide us down the right path.
The other day, me and my son were driving somewhere and he asked if we could go to McDonald's. I complied to his request and was on my way. But, the whole way there, my son kept saying over and over again, "Are we going to McDonald's? I thought you said we could go?" I confirmed, that yes, we are going, and we will be there in a minute. However, this did not soothe his worries. He still kept asking. As I was growing weary of repeating myself, I decided to remain silent, and figured soon enough he would know when we arrived.
It made me think of my Lord. How many times have I, after being given a promise, continued to ask and ask, "Lord, are we going? I thought you said...," only to be given the silent treatment. Maybe, sometimes, when we don't hear an answer to our questions, it's because God knows where He's taking us, and soon enough, we will too. If God's in the driver's seat, we can be assured that He's taking us to our promised destination; and if He's silent along the way, it's not a sign that He's forgotten, only a quiet confidence in His ability to guide us down the right path.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Completely Confounded
Do you know one thing that utterly amazes me? It's something, that every time I think about it, every time I meditate upon it, I am left more perplexed than before. Not perplexed in a sense that is negative, or causes me strife, but perplexed in the sense that, no matter what, I will never be able to grasp the weight of it fully. It's so elusive, yet so true and evident in my life. It's a concept that seems completely ordinary to my everyday existence because I encounter it on a daily basis, yet I go on and live life normally, as if this thing were so common. But it's not. For many people, it's not something they have even experienced. For many, it's not something that's even real. But, it is. It is the realest thing in the entire world. It is my relationship with my Creator.
What is it about this relationship that completely boggles my mind? It's the simple fact that the Creator of the whole entire universe, the Creator who holds infinite knowledge, who has the mind to speak this world into existence in 6 days, yet did it with such minute detail, wants and desires to have a personal relationship with me. So close does my Creator want to be to me that He reveals Himself in the smallest details of my life. Yet, He still holds this world together. And, not only does He desire a relationship with me, but with everyone.
Does that not elicit perplexity?
What is it about this relationship that completely boggles my mind? It's the simple fact that the Creator of the whole entire universe, the Creator who holds infinite knowledge, who has the mind to speak this world into existence in 6 days, yet did it with such minute detail, wants and desires to have a personal relationship with me. So close does my Creator want to be to me that He reveals Himself in the smallest details of my life. Yet, He still holds this world together. And, not only does He desire a relationship with me, but with everyone.
Does that not elicit perplexity?
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Encouragement
I always find encouragement in the Word of God. When I am doubtful, I can read and be reminded of God's faithfulness. When I fear, I can read and be strengthened. When I am thirsty, I can read and find living water for my soul.
Recently, a friend and I were discussing how sometimes it is difficult to sense God's presence around you, even when you are seeking it. We asked whether it was on account of things that we are doing, or not doing; wondering if we pushed Him away. We also looked at the flip side of this, maybe this is what walking by faith means, pursuing even when we can't feel God.
As we were talking, a Scripture came to my mind from the book of Job, but I couldn't remember where it was found, so I began looking it up in the Bible. When I found it, I shared it with her: 'Yet He knows the way I have taken; when He has tested me, I will emerge as pure gold.'(Job 23:10) My friend asked me to read the context of the Scripture, so she could get a better understanding of what Job was saying. As I began to read it, my jaw dropped at the specificity of the Holy Spirit. He had something He wanted us to know:
Job 23:8-14
If I go east, He is not there, and if I go west, I cannot perceive Him. When He is at work to the north, I cannot see Him; when He turns south, I cannot find Him. Yet He knows the way I have taken; when He has tested me I will emerge as pure gold. My feet have followed in His tracks; I have kept to His way and not turned aside. I have not departed from the commands of His lips; I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my daily food. But He is unchangeable; who can oppose Him? He does what He desires. He will certainly accomplish what He has decreed for me, and He has many more things like these in mind.
Wow!!!!
I am pretty sure God answered our questions! The most wonderful thing about this is, that even when we don't know where He is, even when we can't feel His presence, He still knows where we are! He reassured us that we hadn't done anything to push Him away, in fact we were EXACTLY where He wanted us to be. He will certainly fulfill every promise He made us. We can so easily forget how much our Creator loves us! And, that walking by faith thing, yeah, it's a requirement, but God never let's us walk blindly.
The reason I wanted to share this story is because I know we're not the only ones that ever feel like this. Most of the time, most people feel this way. Because of it, due to the fact that we're such feelings based creatures, we simply assume He's not there and that there's no hope for us. That's simply not true! The only important thing is that God knows where we are, and He cares about our circumstances. So, be encouraged by the Word of God, which gives us a perfect window into Who exactly our God is, and what we can expect as His children!
Blessings,
Amanda
Recently, a friend and I were discussing how sometimes it is difficult to sense God's presence around you, even when you are seeking it. We asked whether it was on account of things that we are doing, or not doing; wondering if we pushed Him away. We also looked at the flip side of this, maybe this is what walking by faith means, pursuing even when we can't feel God.
As we were talking, a Scripture came to my mind from the book of Job, but I couldn't remember where it was found, so I began looking it up in the Bible. When I found it, I shared it with her: 'Yet He knows the way I have taken; when He has tested me, I will emerge as pure gold.'(Job 23:10) My friend asked me to read the context of the Scripture, so she could get a better understanding of what Job was saying. As I began to read it, my jaw dropped at the specificity of the Holy Spirit. He had something He wanted us to know:
Job 23:8-14
If I go east, He is not there, and if I go west, I cannot perceive Him. When He is at work to the north, I cannot see Him; when He turns south, I cannot find Him. Yet He knows the way I have taken; when He has tested me I will emerge as pure gold. My feet have followed in His tracks; I have kept to His way and not turned aside. I have not departed from the commands of His lips; I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my daily food. But He is unchangeable; who can oppose Him? He does what He desires. He will certainly accomplish what He has decreed for me, and He has many more things like these in mind.
Wow!!!!
I am pretty sure God answered our questions! The most wonderful thing about this is, that even when we don't know where He is, even when we can't feel His presence, He still knows where we are! He reassured us that we hadn't done anything to push Him away, in fact we were EXACTLY where He wanted us to be. He will certainly fulfill every promise He made us. We can so easily forget how much our Creator loves us! And, that walking by faith thing, yeah, it's a requirement, but God never let's us walk blindly.
The reason I wanted to share this story is because I know we're not the only ones that ever feel like this. Most of the time, most people feel this way. Because of it, due to the fact that we're such feelings based creatures, we simply assume He's not there and that there's no hope for us. That's simply not true! The only important thing is that God knows where we are, and He cares about our circumstances. So, be encouraged by the Word of God, which gives us a perfect window into Who exactly our God is, and what we can expect as His children!
Blessings,
Amanda
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
The Fellowship of Suffering
I had every intention of writing an original blog for tonight, however, life is busy at this present moment. I was going through some of the writings I have saved on my computer and came across this one that I wrote awhile back. I figured it was a good share since it was in line with the message tonight at church. Enjoy!
No, don't enjoy. Be challenged!
Okay, enjoy and be challenged together.
“My goal is to know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, assuming that I will somehow reach the resurrection from among the dead.” Philippians 3:10-11
If suffering for a Christian means fellowship with Christ’s suffering, what does it mean when we try to avoid those situations that may result in heartache? What are we saying when we look upon hard times with reproach or even dread? What do we communicate to God when we say, “I can’t do what you’re asking me to do because it will be too painful for me,”? Let’s imagine for a minute, that when we perceive a painful situation from this perspective, that we are ultimately saying that we despise Calvary and Christ’s death on the cross. When we reject our personal crosses to bear, are we rejecting Calvary? This is a valid argument. We say we despise suffering, and Christ took suffering upon Himself, Christ was a man of sorrows, thus we are despising His life. We say, “We’re too good to suffer,” yet, the only One who was good knew nothing but suffering. We say, “Suffering is not the worthy way,” however, the Worthy One thought it worthy enough to suffer for humanity. What about the fellowship? What promise do we have in our own misery, loneliness, or despair? The promise we have is, “I’ll never leave you nor forsake you.”(Joshua 1:5) Although we feel alone in our suffering, we really are not alone in our suffering, for our Lord knew suffering, and our Lord is with us through it all. He is the High Priest who has been tested in every way that we have (Heb. 4:15), so we truly do fellowship with Christ through it. So, the next time we are faced with a challenge that may be painful, remember the night in the Garden, when Christ chose His Father’s will above His own, and chose suffering for His children, and know that when we embrace the suffering, we are embracing Christ.
No, don't enjoy. Be challenged!
Okay, enjoy and be challenged together.
“My goal is to know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, assuming that I will somehow reach the resurrection from among the dead.” Philippians 3:10-11
If suffering for a Christian means fellowship with Christ’s suffering, what does it mean when we try to avoid those situations that may result in heartache? What are we saying when we look upon hard times with reproach or even dread? What do we communicate to God when we say, “I can’t do what you’re asking me to do because it will be too painful for me,”? Let’s imagine for a minute, that when we perceive a painful situation from this perspective, that we are ultimately saying that we despise Calvary and Christ’s death on the cross. When we reject our personal crosses to bear, are we rejecting Calvary? This is a valid argument. We say we despise suffering, and Christ took suffering upon Himself, Christ was a man of sorrows, thus we are despising His life. We say, “We’re too good to suffer,” yet, the only One who was good knew nothing but suffering. We say, “Suffering is not the worthy way,” however, the Worthy One thought it worthy enough to suffer for humanity. What about the fellowship? What promise do we have in our own misery, loneliness, or despair? The promise we have is, “I’ll never leave you nor forsake you.”(Joshua 1:5) Although we feel alone in our suffering, we really are not alone in our suffering, for our Lord knew suffering, and our Lord is with us through it all. He is the High Priest who has been tested in every way that we have (Heb. 4:15), so we truly do fellowship with Christ through it. So, the next time we are faced with a challenge that may be painful, remember the night in the Garden, when Christ chose His Father’s will above His own, and chose suffering for His children, and know that when we embrace the suffering, we are embracing Christ.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
New Year, New Beginnings...
Or re-beginnings.
As the new year starts I would like to begin a serious attempt at blogging again. My faithfulness has wavered in writing on a regular basis. However, I think with it being a new year and all, I should re-try something I once tried before, but miserably failed at. And writing will not be the only area of my life in which there will be a re-beginning...again.
The purpose of this blog: to share my journey with Christ. I will be diligently trying to update once a week and the blog will contain things like a devotion or a sharing of the day to day lessons I learn, for anyone that is interested. Truthfully, I am simply ready to use the gift of writing that my Heavenly Father has given me for a greater purpose, because I believe now is the time. So I hope you enjoy (is anybody out there?)
If you would like a weekly email containing my blog submit your email address in the box at the top of the page, which will allow you to follow via email.
Blessings,
Amanda
As the new year starts I would like to begin a serious attempt at blogging again. My faithfulness has wavered in writing on a regular basis. However, I think with it being a new year and all, I should re-try something I once tried before, but miserably failed at. And writing will not be the only area of my life in which there will be a re-beginning...again.
The purpose of this blog: to share my journey with Christ. I will be diligently trying to update once a week and the blog will contain things like a devotion or a sharing of the day to day lessons I learn, for anyone that is interested. Truthfully, I am simply ready to use the gift of writing that my Heavenly Father has given me for a greater purpose, because I believe now is the time. So I hope you enjoy (is anybody out there?)
If you would like a weekly email containing my blog submit your email address in the box at the top of the page, which will allow you to follow via email.
Blessings,
Amanda
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