Tag: God

Fraud

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In my distress I called to the Lord, and He answered me. Deliver me, O Lord from lying lips, from a deceitful tongue. Psalm 120:1-2

I am a fraud.

Flawed.

Not perfect.

You?

If you’re honest, you’ll agree.

Yes about me, but I’m referring to you.

None of us are perfect.

We all demand.

We all seek number one (us).

We all judge.

Living for ourselves, we seek to put ourselves first.

We do that in countless ways.

Too many really to count.

When was the last time you decided to put someone else first?

To ignore your needs, seeking to serve the other first?

Think about Jesus.

He was fully human while serving all of us.

Imagine how tired he was when people kept streaming into his company for ministry after a long day of preaching.

Imagine how hungry he was when tempted and fasting for 40 days in the desert.

Imagine how much agony he suffered while climbing the hill to die for us.

Imagine how separate he felt when God turned His back, allowing Jesus to die for our sins?

Jesus did all of that for us.

He always thought of the bigger picture.

Of the suffering people.

Of how He could help all of us instead of Himself.

We can be generous, too.

Generosity will take our focus off of ourselves.

And when we stop focusing on our number one (us), the things of this world that fill us with anxiety will slowly fade away.

Does it matter if our Christmas tree doesn’t please us in the way we wish?

Nope.

Does it matter if we don’t have that perfect family photo?

Not at all.

What matters is people.

Helping others see the love of God.

And that, my friends, will help us move from fraud to real.

Knowing we are really loved by God.

May we focus on others, spreading the love of God as it oozes from our very selves into the lives of others.

Wide Open

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The eternal God is your dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms. Deuteronomy 33:27

Jesus is forever our always.

Forever, Jesus is our always.

Always and forever, is Jesus to you.

To me.

To us.

He is and always will be there for you.

Always.

For all things.

Every little thing.

There is no place we can hide from His love.

There is no place away from His presence.

We simply cannot run away from Him.

He is always here, waiting for you.

In good times and bad.

When you want Him and when you don’t.

He is always standing with His arms wide open, waiting for you.

There is nothing you can do to close His arms to you.

There is nothing you can do to close His thoughts towards you.

And there is nothing you can do to separate His love from you.

All you have to do is turn towards Him, accepting His love.

Today.

Tomorrow.

The next day, and the next.

Each day, you must choose Him.

You must choose to abide in His love.

You must choose to listen to His voice, showering you with His blessings.

Since there’s no place you can hide, step out into the light.

Allow Jesus to wipe away your tears.

Allow Jesus to lift your burdens from your shoulders.

And allow Him to give you His strength.

His peace.

His joy.

Allow yourself to be loved by God.

His arms are wide open for you.

Photos by Alex Woods, Milada Vigerova, Nathan Dumlao, Ben White, & Jon Tyson on Unsplash

Good

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And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28

God is still good.

He is.

He is still good.

Even though….

Fill in the blank with whatever your even though is.

Even though your family breaks apart, He is still good.

Even though your life isn’t what you pictured, He is still good.

Even though your children’s attitudes are louder than their love, He is still good.

Even though your selfishness overwhelms you sometimes, He is still good.

Even though your parents are separated, He is still good.

Even though your child rejects you, He is still good.

Even though your child’s lifestyle doesn’t match your view of them, He is still good.

Even though.

Even though everything, right?

Do the little things matter?

Yes, they do, because we are human.

But the bigger picture remains God’s alone.

God alone is on the throne, and He is good.

He works everything out for our good if we trust in Him.

Romans 8:28 says, And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

All things He works for our good.

Because we love Him and are called according to His purpose.

When we keep placing our trust in Him, He works all things out for our good.

Thank goodness.

Purpose to place your family in His hands.

Purpose to place your life in His hands.

Purpose to place your very self within His capable hands.

In return, He will work all things for your good.

Because He loves you that much.

Photos by Clémence Taillez, eberhard grossgasteiger, & Paul Green on Unsplash

Slow Slide

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Take care, brothers, lest there be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart, leading you to fall away from the living God. But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today”, that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. Hebrews 3:12-13

Satan rarely enters with a bang.

He rarely announces his presence, coming through our choices instead.

It’s usually one choice.

That leads you to another.

And another.

And another.

And before you know it, you don’t recognize the path anymore as you’ve veered away from God.

It’s rarely fast; it’s usually slow.

So slow, you don’t even notice.

Panic from not studying, you glance at your friend’s test paper.

Just one look.

Just one answer.

Never again, you tell yourself.

That was easy.

Next time, it’s even easier.

Justified in your mind.

You sneak a pack of gum into your pocket without paying.

At home, the gum doesn’t taste as good as you thought, but it was free.

The next time it’s easier.

Justified in your mind.

You start spending alone time with a person of the opposite gender.

Lots of time.

But you’re married.

The friendship grows.

Becomes more.

One day at a time.

Justified in your mind.

Satan rarely announces the wrecking of your life.

The justification he wants you to follow.

How do we keep doing exactly what God wants us to do?

We must weigh everything with Him.

Ask Him.

Ask Him about everything.

He’s always right there, wanting to help you.

I Peter 5:18 reminds us to Be alert, be on watch! Your enemy, the Devil, roams around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.

It’s possible to love God and remain passive.

I’ve seen it multiple times as little sins become big, building up and refusing to leave as pride takes over common sense.

Lord, may we seek Your will in all we do.

Please guide us into Your plans and give us Your wisdom for every little thing.

Amen.

Photos by Markus Spiske on Unsplash

The Faithfulness of God

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But the steadfast love of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him, and His righteousness to children’s children, to those who keep His covenant and remember to do His commandments. Psalm 103:17-18

Keep trusting.

Keep believing.

God has a plan and it is our only job to keep going, trusting and believing He will do what He has promised He will do.

You must remember how faithful God is to us, His beloved.

If you have forgotten, look through the Bible.

Look back into your life.

Notice again those moments He was faithful to you.

Inspect the lives of others and notice how very faithful God always is, even when you think He’s not.

When we have doubt, it’s because we don’t see God moving fast enough for us.

We don’t see evidence of our prayers immediate fruitfulness.

We don’t see the movement of God with our loved ones.

Those reactions are rooted in our flesh and not in the space of God.

God always hears your prayers.

And yes, they work, meaning He always hears them.

Your prayers matter.

You might not see the fruitfulness for years, but they still matter.

I understand wanting to see a sign from God, confirming the assignment of our prayers.

I’ll share mine.

I’ve been praying for the souls of my children.

While I know all 5 of them have faith deep down from their itty bitty childhood selves, their adolescent and young adult selves have not exhibited the faith they once had.

I’ve been asking God to surround them with godly friends.

To cover them with His peace, freedom, and the knowledge of His truth.

My youngest son’s life was recently spared from death.

His car was totaled on the interstate during an icy spell.

He came within inches of death and he knows it.

Thank you, Jesus, for your evidence of faithfulness.

He’s been reminded how precious life is.

His heart has been opened to God.

Both he and my eldest son have recently realized what a treasure our family is to them.

My oldest two daughters have shown care for others beyond themselves.

Restoration has happened on many levels within our family from the brokenness and ugliness of the world.

All of this possible only from the faithfulness of God.

Every morning, after inhaling my devotions, I seek the Lord for my family.

Today, God showed me He is working, even when I don’t see it.

That’s what faithfulness is – keeping the prayers flowing even when I don’t see it.

Even when you don’t see it.

Thank you, God, for allowing me to see a glimpse of what You are doing, how You are working.

May we all see evidence of Your faithfulness as we lift our families before Your throne.

And may You continue to run after our family with reckless abandon, bringing them into Your arms once again.

Photos by Olivia Snow, David Beale, & Ben White on Unsplash

Loving God’s Way

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As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear Him. Psalm 103:13

Sigh, I admit, this is hard.

Way hard.

Loving God’s way means loving the unlovable.

Not caring about the reaction.

But loving anyway.

Because that’s what God does.

He loves you, doesn’t He?

And let’s admit, you’re not always perfectly loveable either.

Everyone deserves to be loved.

No matter how they act towards you.

I’m not excusing behavior, just pointing out the underlying layer of love that must exist.

We do things out of love.

We cook dinner.

May I say that again as it truly is an act of love? 🙂

We drive people.

We plan outings, birthdays, and holidays.

There are hundreds of things parents do for children that remain un-thanked.

But we do it out of love.

We make our spouse coffee.

We think of them as we plan meals.

There are hundreds of things spouses do for their spouse that remain un-thanked.

We diligently work at our job.

We pour our hearts into our very lives, while pouring out onto others in our path.

Sometimes we are loved back.

Those moments are precious.

But sometimes we are ignored or even shunned.

But we still love.

Why?

Because that’s what God asks of us.

If we are to be His hands and feet…

If we are to exhibit His character…

If we are to bring others to Himself, we must remain in love.

We must love others who not only love us back, but also those who do not.

While I never excuse behavior, I simply always love.

How?

With God’s love surging through my veins.

Only with His love, am I able to reach beyond my human limitations and love God’s way.

Photos by Debby Hudson, Tyler Nix, Photo by Jez Timms, & Fadi Xd on Unsplash

I’m Sorry

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Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy. Proverbs 28:13

What do those words mean to you?

An apology?

Heartfelt from you to the offended?

Or a necessary evil?

Something to get your loved one off your back?

Apologies mean the world.

They write the wrongs.

Cover the faults.

Restore relationships.

Why is it so hard sometimes to apologize?

Pride?

What is true Christ-like apology?

Acknowledging your part with no strings attached.

Simply saying you are sorry for what you have done.

End of story.

No excuses.

Is that what you do?

Or do you apologize on the wings of accusing the other person along the way?

True apology only acknowledges your part.

You and you alone.

Fess up and relent.

Accept responsibility for what you and you alone have done.

End of story.

When you offer a sincere apology, void of blame and accusation, all will be well.

Relationships will be smoothed and offenses forgiven.

But only if you take responsibility for your own actions.

Don’t apologize by blaming the other person.

Simply say you’re sorry for what you did.

Honestly and sincere.

Look at the other person and say those words.

Only then will God redeem your situation.

Forgiveness is quick and sweet.

Humble yourself and ask.

It’s the only way.

Photos by Brett Jordan & Sandra Grünewald on Unsplash

Imagine

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But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God. I trust in the steadfast love of God forever and ever. I will thank you forever, because you have done it. I will wait for your name, for it is good, in the presence of the godly. Psalm 52:8-9

I cannot even imagine life without Jesus.

Living in absolute fear without the foundation of my all knowing God.

Not sharing my deepest fears with the One who already knows.

Not asking Him to remove my fear, replacing it with His complete peace.

I cannot imagine not having the eternal security of heaven because of Jesus’ death on the cross for my sins.

Imagine thinking about death without Him.

Death would be the end.

No more.

Imagine life without Him.

Life would be completely up to you and me…….and chance.

That would be too much pressure.

With my personality, I’d beat myself up for sure.

A lot.

I cannot imagine going through the valley of death without God’s perfect peace.

Walking in the shadow of death without God’s protection and presence would have been the end of me.

Even with God, life is no walk in the park.

But without Him in my life, all I can say is wow.

I cannot imagine life without my Savior.

Life would not be life.

It would be so materialistic and surface like.

I’m so thankful I don’t have to trust myself to get through life.

Not only to get through, but to succeed.

Thankfully, we don’t have to imagine life without God.

God is here.

He has been, is, and always will be.

Forever and ever.

There is no life without Him, there was no life without Him and there will be no life without Him.

Can I get an amen? 🙂

Guess what?

We never have to imagine a world without Jesus, unless we choose to.

Thank God!

Photos by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

His Wings

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He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. Psalm 91:4

Your God promises to completely cover you with Himself.

Hiding you under His wings.

You will find refuge there.

Safety.

His faithfulness is your shield.

Your impenetrable shield.

Visually saw an example recently with, yes, Wonder Woman ’84.

There’s a scene where a warrior is completely enveloped within iron wings closed around her.

The enemy is literally right there, flinging weapons.

But the “feathers” or wings keep her safe.

I love to picture God surrounding me with His armor.

His protection for whatever comes my way.

Thank you, God, for always covering me with You.

There’s no place I’d rather be.

Photos by Debby Hudson, Samantha Kennedy, Gary Bendig, & Nico Frey on Unsplash

Wonder Woman ’84

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Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. John 14:6

How are you blocking God from showing you what He has for you?

How are you blocking your freedom from springing forth?

How are you blocking God’s peace from covering every fear?

How are you blocking the very presence of God through what you hold too near?

When we hold onto things we shouldn’t, we block our progress.

When we hold onto the way we think things should be, we block God from moving.

When we hold onto our old familiar fears, we block God’s peace which passes all understanding.

When we hold onto things from the past, focusing on the loss instead of the present, we block God from carrying us into the future He has for us.

Yes, God is sovereign.

Yes, He can do anything.

But He allows us to choose.

We can choose to stay stuck with ourselves or move into the freedom He has for us.

Forgive me, but I must bring up Wonder Woman.

Yes, the female super hero in the movies today.

Watching Wonder Woman 84, she wrestled with letting go of her first love.

By focusing on that loss, she slowly lost her super powers.

Only when she let him and the stinging pain completely leave did she regain her superhero strength, pivotal to her destiny.

Completely applies to us and what we hold onto instead of God.

When we hold onto things instead of giving them to God, our “super powers” are blocked.

God’s peace cannot penetrate.

Fear stays.

Deep disappointment overwhelms.

Give every little thing to God.

Everything from your past, present and future.

Only when we let old things go can we move into the amazing plans God has for us.

Let the disappointed dreams go.

Let the past hurt rest.

And let God fully reign.

Photos by Priscilla Du Preez, Jack Ward, Helena Cook, & Jared Subia on Unsplash

Whose Are You?

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For none of us lives to himself, and none of us dies to himself. For if we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord. So then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s. Romans 14:7-8

Are you your own?

Or are you God’s?

Do you live for yourself?

Or do you live under God’s breath?

Living for yourself can be fun, I will admit.

But it’s also sad.

Lonely.

And it’s a pit that never ends.

The deeper you go into yourself, the farther away you are from God, who, in fact, created everything, even that pit.

The more you chase the world, trying to find yourself, the lonelier you will remain.

What if, instead of chasing selfish whims, you chased God’s will for you?

What if, instead of slipping deeper into a selfish pit, you walked God’s plan for your life?

When you remember Whose you are, you’ll be able to stand a little taller.

When you remember Whose you are, you’ll realize none of it matters.

The matching tea towels.

The latest athletic shoes.

The perfect family photo.

None of it matters because it all points to you.

Stand up.

Stand tall.

And stand for the One who was born for You.

Because Whose you are matters more than who you are.

Photos by Fadi Xd, sergey mikheev, & Em M. on Unsplash

Morality

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What is morality?

Well, it’s when one is moral or has morals.

What’s the definition of morals?

Webster says “of or relating to principles of right and wrong in behavior- ethical.”

Makes perfect sense.

Especially when Webster continues: “conforming to a standard of right behavior or sanctioned by one’s conscience.”

So, morality has to do with right and wrong.

Knowing deep in your conscience the right and wrong ways to go.

Wait.

I thought our world no longer held the standard of absolute right and wrong, because God has essentially been removed from the public square.

Unfortunately, that’s true.

Our world has adopted moral relativism, meaning what is right for me might not be right for you.

They declare right and wrong are different for everyone, depending upon what they believe is right for them.

Think about voter fraud.

If you believe it’s right for your candidate to win, you’ll justify the fake votes, because that’s right for you.

Think about extended lockdowns.

If those in charge believes it is right to remove personal freedom for the good of the general public, then that is right for them.

Nothing will stop them as it’s right for them, even if it’s wrong according to the Constitution.

Think about politically correct speech.

If someone thinks it’s right for them to be whatever pronoun they desire, no matter their God-given gender, then it’s right in their mind, suddenly becoming wrong for you to object.

Think about abortion.

If someone thinks it’s right for them to kill their baby, they remove your right to protest as they deem you wrong.

When there is no standard of absolute right and wrong, societies always fail.

They crumble.

May God help us.

May God increase our strength and words, providing us His wisdom to stand up against the moral decline of America.

May He provide us avenues to stand up for His absolute truth, teaching our children to do the same.

May we not be afraid to speak up.

Oh, God, give us your strength to stop being silent.

Have mercy on our country.

You, God, are the Author of our liberty.

Long may our land be bright, with freedom’s holy light.

Protect us by Thy might, Great God our King!

Photos by Aaron Burden, Paul Weaver, Justin Casey, Luke Michael, & Martin Jernberg on Unsplash

God’s Chosen

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For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor. No good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly. Psalm 84:11

The angel Gabriel had just disappeared, leaving her with God’s request.

Mary was left standing in the middle of the room, trembling after her encounter with God’s holy angel.

Steadying herself by grabbing a chair, she collapsed into it, wondering if she had imagined it all.

Gabriel had appeared to her, proclaiming God’s need for her to be the Lord’s earthly mother.

“How could I say no?” Mary thought. “I want to do whatever God wants me to do, but I’m scared. Really terrified, actually. What will people say? Will they believe me?”

Mary said yes to God.

She had no idea the ramifications of her acceptance into God’s will.

Her life was over as she knew it, but obeying God was more important to her than anything else.

Did she have periods of doubt?

Of course.

Did she have moments or even days of regret?

Probably.

She’s human.

Imagine yourself.

Imagine the whispers of your friends, the people you’ve grown up with your whole life.

“Did you know Mary’s pregnant? She’s not even married!”

Overhearing these comments would not sit well in her heart.

She probably cried as those pregnancy hormones raged.

And it probably never stopped.

The whispers.

The comments.

She was permanently labeled.

And not in a good way.

Mary could have listened to those lies, allowing them to define her.

But she knew they weren’t true.

All she had to do was look upon the face of God’s son Jesus, the sweet boy running around her house.

All she had to do was ask God to remind her of His purposes for her.

All she had to do was choose to believe God’s identity for her instead of the world’s.

How about you?

What identity do you embrace that is not from our loving God?

What whispered lies or comments do you bring into your heart, believing them instead of God’s truth?

Be like Mary.

Realize you will be talked about.

Realize you have no control over other people.

But realize once and for all Whose you are.

Straighten your crown and stand tall.

You are God’s beloved.

Chosen.

And deeply loved.

Photos by Sebastian Fröhlich, Josh Boot, Ander Burdain, & Seoyeon Choi on Unsplash

Joseph and Mary

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And he rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed to Egypt. Matthew 2:14

God interrupted their plans.

Big time, yes?

Joseph and Mary were ordinary people living a simple life doing normal things.

They had normal plans.

Get married.

Start a family.

Carve out the best possible existence with the resources they had.

They were not unlike all of us.

But God stepped into their lives, interrupting the journey they thought they would take.

God didn’t completely alter their plans, just changed it up, adding a baby, shepherds, Wiseman, and fleeing into Egypt in the middle of the night to avoid certain death.

But eventually, they settled into that semi-normal life they originally sought.

Normal if you can call it that while parenting the son of God.

What has God interrupted in your life?

This year has been full of interruptions.

I know, the interruptions aren’t from God, or are they?

Has God awakened your desire to know Him more?

To trust Him more?

Has God opened your eyes to see how much the world needs His good news?

Has your trust in God deepened as normal life has somewhat changed?

While God has not announced life altering declarations to you through an angel, He has allowed our lives to change.

Maybe only for a season, but they have been changed.

And because God holds all things, the past, present, and the future, in his Hands, we can trust Him through all of it.

I believe God has spoken to you through this time.

But you must listen.

Listen to His whispers of encouragement when you are filled with loneliness.

Listen to His domination over fear when you are filled with anxiety.

Listen to His great love for you when you feel abandoned.

Dig into the Bible, worship Him with praise, and purpose your mind to focus on Him and what you know He wants you to do.

Mary and Joseph did that.

They could have run away screaming from what God asked them to do when He stepped into their lives, interrupting their best laid plans.

But they didn’t.

They chose to trust in Almighty God and then obey.

Do the same.

Trust Him for your everything and then obey Him, knowing you are fully loved and fully known by God.

Photos by Annie Spratt, Maria Shanina, Josh Boot, & David Beale on Unsplash

Seeking

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You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all of your heart. Jeremiah 29:13

What are you seeking after?

What would you give your life for?

What if this happiness costs you something.

Would it be worth it, whatever this is you seek?

Temporary pain for the greater good comes to mind.

Further college education classes last only a few months.

Haha, or years, but the reward is usually a better job and more money.

Exercise takes a few minutes each day with the gain of health.

Planning the holidays creates work but memories for years to come.

What are you seeking after at the cost of your happiness?

The position of self?

To be “right”?

An attitude, perhaps?

Is it worth it?

Been studying Augustine lately for a class.

Yes, the one from the 4th century.

His ultimate goal of education was the pursuit of happiness and peace of God.

He longed to hear God’s voice.

What if your goals were replaced with these?

The pursuit of God’s love and peace.

Is your pursuit creating peace in your soul?

Are you seeking after God to be your everything?

We were never meant to live alone.

Created for love, we were meant to live in community.

Community that ministers to us in the valleys and celebrates us in the hills.

Who do you answer to every day?

Your sweet self?

Or God?

Oh God, make us more like You.

Create in us a clean heart, seeking You with all that we are and listening for Your voice to direct our paths.

Photos by Oscar Helgstrand on Unsplash

Sitting Dignified

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Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come. Proverbs 31:25

Are you?

Sitting dignified in your place?

Sometimes in life, we are less than.

Lowered into a status we did not ask for.

It might be a devalued relationship.

Or a job.

Maybe you were simply completely misunderstood.

Or maybe, gasp, they hurt you on purpose.

So, you sit.

You sit up, back straight, in your dignified place.

You are not affected by the mud slung your way.

You do not care.

Why?

Because you know Whose you are.

You are a daughter or son of the Most High.

The Most High loves you.

He died for you.

He is always with you, every moment.

He hears everything, absolutely every insult hurled your way.

He sees everything, all their eye rolls or ways you constantly bend over to pick up broken pieces nobody else seems to scoop up.

He knows everything, all your hidden fears, your secret wants, your tears shed in private.

Sit up.

Tall and straight.

God has it, will have it, and has already had it.

All of it.

All you have to do is smile as you sit in your dignified place.

And for heaven’s sake, straighten your crown.

Photos by Church of the King & Jared Subia on Unsplash

Longing

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May He grant you your heart’s desire and fulfill all your plans! Psalm 20:4

What is the longing of your heart?

The deep down longing?

To win the lottery?

To get married?

To make it through the day?

How bout to know God?

To know the living God, who made ALL things?

He wants to know you.

In fact, He already does.

Inside and out.

All those ugly things you don’t like to talk about?

He already knows.

All those deep dark fears, thinking you’re really not good enough?

He knows.

He sees your future fears.

He sees your past regrets.

He sees your broken heart.

He sees everything.

And you know what?

He still loves you.

Not only that, but He longs to have a relationship with you.

Jesus longs to fill your voids, canceling your debt upon your back.

Sometimes Christians keep their burdens.

We know we are saved, but we hold onto the things we regret.

We hold onto the things we wished were different.

Bitterness.

Anger.

Fear.

Unloving.

We hold onto it all.

But guess what?

God knows it all.

Every little thing.

And He still wants you fully as you are.

Come unto Him, lay down your everything, including that secret fear you’ve held for your entire life.

Might be scary, but it’s worth it.

Know why?

Because God, who knows the beginning from the end, will take your fear and hold it for you.

He will hold it.

When He holds it, it becomes love.

Your fear becomes perfect, because God is perfect.

He rights wrongs.

He cancels sin.

He creates beauty from ashes.

What are you waiting for?

Run to Him.

Submit, and give Him EVERYTHING.

In return, He will give you His peace.

His perfect peace.

There is nothing in this world that compares.

Nothing.

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Valuing Others

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Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you. Luke 6:38

How much do you value other people?

Enough to care about them past, “How are you?”

Do you really want to hear something other than the usual “Fine?”

If you do, you show your friend value.

Let’s go deeper.

How much do you value your spouse?

Do you ask them what they need from you to fill their hearts up?

And then when you ask, do you actually try to follow through?

If you do, you show your spouse value.

Maybe instead, you take them for granted.

You take their love and service as nothing.

Normal.

Everyday.

Well, it’s now time to wake up.

Literally.

What if today was your last day?

How would you show your spouse value then?

Guessing it would be more than you do now.

Valuing your spouse is not hard.

It’s asking them how they are and actually listening without distraction.

It’s seeking to know them, wanting to connect.

It’s asking what they need from you to fill their hearts.

And then following through not once, but from now on.

Because you value them.

People recognize love in different ways.

Your love language might not be your spouses.

Ask them.

And then act.

Only in our selfishness can we possibly neglect the beautiful gift set before us.

God blesses us with spouses.

Treat them like the gift they really are to you.

And your gift will be returned to you a thousand times over.

Photos by Helena Lopes, Jamez Picard, Aung Soe Min, & Alex Iby on Unsplash

Coming to Our Senses

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“…and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will.” 2 Timothy 2:26

I assume you want to come to your senses.

To live honorably before all men.

Senseless living showcases foolishness.

Usually on display for all to see.

Sometimes we don’t see our own folly. Why?

Because we have not come to our senses and are living under the influence of the devil.

The verse above states when we are not living wisely, meaning not living in our senses, we are in the snare of the devil, biding his will.

Actually participating in the devil’s evil plans instead of God’s holy design. Ouch.

Paul elaborates speaking to the Lord’s servant about not being quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness. (2 Timothy 3:24)

Who are the Lord’s servants? Us.

Those who love God and wish to serve Him with our whole selves.

Especially pastors.

Those in spiritual authority over us.

If you want to categorize servants, pastors must strive more to live as examples of humble servants.

Only when we are kind, gentle, and patient is God able to free us from ourselves.

From living senselessly under the capture and will of the devil.

God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth. (2 Timothy 3:25)

Only when we live with the fruit of the spirit will God allow our eyes to revel our own selfishness, leading us to God’s truth before our eyes.

Folks, we often miss it.

We think we are following God.

But we are mistaken, because we are trusting in ourselves before Him.

We trust in our reasoning, not allowing the Holy Spirit to convict us of our past.

Instead may we fly from youthful passions, pursuing instead righteousness, faith, love, and peace, with a pure heart.

And may God open our eyes to His will, giving us the courage to obey Him.

I for one cringe when I think about acting in the will of the devil.

How ’bout you?

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God Alone

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But Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26

We cannot rely on anyone but God alone.

God alone is all we need.

If you place your trust in humans, you will be disappointed.

Bitterly.

But God will never disappoint you.

Yes, He won’t always do what you want.

But you can rest assured He has your back.

He has your best interest at heart.

God has no sin, so His love is pure.

Not spoiled with human interests.

Yes, we can rely upon our spouses.

Yes, we can rely upon our children.

Yes, we can rely upon our family and friends.

But they will all disappoint.

They will break your heart.

Again and again.

God will not.

While God provides us human relationships on this earth, they will never fill the void in your soul.

Only God can fill that completly.

Fully.

Lonely?

Humans cannot respond with the companionship you need.

But God can.

Sad?

Humans cannot respond with the sympathy you need.

But God can.

Confused?

Humans cannot respond with the direction you need.

But God can.

While God does place people in our lives here on earth, they cannot fill the void God leaves.

Ever.

People will disappoint.

But God will not.

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Needing God

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(God) who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. Psalm 103:4-5

God, I need You.

I need Your strength.

Mine is all gone.

I need Your love for others.

Mine is all used up.

I need Your peace.

Don’t have any on my own that lasts more than a second.

I need Your love for me, too.

Mine is all gone.

I need all of You.

Because all of me is used up.

Fill me anew with You.

Cover my ugly shivering self with Your arms.

I need Your safety.

I need Your protection.

I need Your security.

I need You.

You are always faithful.

Always.

In every single thing as long as I ask You.

You’re so gracious, You also let me live in my own self if I bow to my selfishness.

But I choose You.

Totally.

Completely.

Absolutely, I choose You.

Fill me up with all of You.

Only then will I begin to hope again.

Only then will I have strength to keep going.

Only then will I be as I should.

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Rejection

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The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be silent. Exodus 14:14

Satan wants us to reject ourselves.

He wants us to act as if we are reject-able.

Unloved.

When we act accordingly, we fulfill that prophecy.

Ultimately rejected.

Not because of us, but because of how we act.

As parents, we must look past rejection and continue to love.

As spouses, we must continue to love, seeking to validate the other person fully.

Completely and fully loved.

Secure.

As members of our great nation, we simply must defer, bringing life to others.

Unless of course you find yourself in a riot and then for God’s sake, defend yourself to the bitter end.

Jesus spoke words that were unusual.

Controversial.

Reject-able in His time.

But he didn’t become that.

His words didn’t make Him reject-able.

So why would you?

Why would you allow yourself to become reject-able?

Because you succumb to the temptation of self.

Of unloving.

Stop.

Recognize Satan’s goal.

His goal of you ultimately rejecting yourself.

And say no.

God will never ask you to reject yourself.

He is on your side, fighting for you.

Pulling for you to be full of His life instead.

In John 10:10 Jesus says, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”

Rejection comes in as a thief to steal, kill, and destroy you.

Jesus will bring you life.

Abundant life.

Allow Him to free you, letting His peace, which passes all understanding, guard your heart and mind.

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Choosing Hope

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Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise Him, my salvation and my God. Psalm 42:5

Do you ever talk to yourself?

Talk yourself into something or out?

Ever tell yourself to buck up?

Or to stop it?

These days, when you’re talking to yourself, you can pretend you’re important, talking instead to someone on your wireless headphones.

The verses above are written by someone who is talking to himself.

Asking his very soul why he is down.

When you are down, do you ask yourself why?

Or do you already know the reason.

The Psalmist is not asking why his soul is down.

He knows why.

He is asking why he haven’t risen above the crud.

Why he is still choosing not to praise God instead.

He goes on to literally tell himself to hope in God.

He reminds himself to choose hope.

Then declares he will again praise God, reminding himself of God’s salvation.

Try it.

The next time you are down, tell yourself to hope in God.

Declare you will praise God instead.

Remind yourself of God’s perfect salvation.

Choose to focus on God, purposing to choose hope instead of despair.

It’s ok to remind yourself.

Until it becomes a habit to choose hope in God instead of despair in your situation, you’ll need to purpose yourself.

But don’t worry.

God would love to help you.

Every single time.

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Fed Up

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Are you as fed up as I am?

Fed up with the enemy trying to step foot into your life?

Trying to gain a foothold in your home and with your family?

How fed up are you?

Enough to do something about it?

Or will you simply complain from your comfy couch?

Reclaim your territory.

Declare your Savior in charge.

Of you.

Of your family.

In every inch of your precious home.

Psalm 44:5 reminds us: Through YOU we push back our enemies; through YOUR name we trample our foes.

Invite God to fill yourself, your family, and your home with His peace and knowledge of all things true.

Repent to God for participating with anything not of God.

And kick out the devil, reclaiming your family for God.

Folks, the battle is long.

The wars repeat.

It can seem to go on and on and on and on…

BUT: you must never lose faith.

You must never give up on the journey.

God is faithful.

He is sovereign over all.

Keep your peace and take back your family.

Let’s all be fed up with the enemy.

And show him Who is boss.

I’m dead serious.

Who’s with me?

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Devil’s Schemes

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“Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6

News flash.

Devil doesn’t care about you if you’re lukewarm.

He doesn’t spend his time on you if you’re not walking with God.

He figures he has you.

Right where he wants you.

But if you have life that happens….

If you have big things occur, you must matter.

Pay attention, because the devil sure is.

He knows God has a special plan for your life.

Wants at all costs to stop it.

To make you feel like God doesn’t care when your family falls apart.

To feel like God has turned His back when things don’t go your way.

The devil’s goal is to get you to stop trusting God.

To stop trusting God has your best in mind.

That God still even cares about you.

Remember that.

He wants to keep you busy, unaware of the evil influencing your children.

He wants to keep you blind to the repairs needed in your marriage.

He wants to keep you apathetic to the holes in the relationships that matter.

He wants you to think there’s nothing you could do to help anything.

That God can’t or won’t help or maybe isn’t even there.

He wants to keep you absolutely pathetic.

Because then you’re weak.

Useless.

Lukewarm.

The next time you are tempted to sink back into old habits, remember that’s where the devil wants you.

Instead, tell him no way.

Don’t give him the pleasure.

Give the satisfaction instead to God, who has promised to never leave you.

Photos by Markus Winkler, Bermix Studio , and Ben White on Unsplash

An Example or Stumbling Block?

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Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. Ephesians 5:1-2

Let yourself be an example instead of a stumble.

An example of Christ’s love instead of a stumble into sin.

Man, that’s hard.

Not always, but sometimes.

Actually, usually it is, am I right?

Especially when our flesh cries out for justice.

Or judgement.

Or pride.

Every time we succeed as an God’s example, we extend life to others.

And every time we succeed as a stumbling block to sin, we bring death to those same people.

So how do we become an example instead of a stumbling block?

Ask God.

All we can do is ask Him to help us.

When we are weak, He is strong.

God’s greatest examples are people who have no strength of their own to complete the tasks God had for them.

But that’s when God’s power shines forth the brightest.

Knowing we cannot without God is the first step.

Then choosing to let Him work through us is the next.

Let Him choose your words.

Let Him choose your actions.

And let His very nature flow through yours.

And when you do that, God will bless others.

Literally through you.

Quite an honor when you think about it.

Be stamped with God’s nature, and His blessing will come through you all the time. Oswald Chambers My Utmost for His Highest reading May 16

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Gifts

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Rest in the knowledge that He is enough.

That He, our Lord, holds all things in His hands.

Are you resting?

Or are you resisting?

Matthew 7:11 reminds us “If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!”

Are you trusting God to give you those good gifts?

Might not be what you asked for, but it will be a good gift nonetheless.

Socks for Christmas are not a favorite, but your feet will be thankful next winter.

A new kitchen appliance is not as sparkly as jewelry, but making dinner from now on will be easier, so frankly, that gift means time.

Taking something away from a child is hardly met with enthusiasm, but it’s a gift.

As parents, you give the gift of self-control and thinking of others, hoping to kick pride to the curb.

Mostly.

We try.

We try to give these good gifts to our children.

Guessing they don’t think of them as gifts.

When God gives you the gift of unemployment, are you thankful?

Thankful for the fresh start?

When God gives you the gift of a child who operates completely different from you, are you thankful?

Thankful to see things from a whole new perspective?

When God allows challenges in your life, it’s for a reason.

To shape you further into His image.

We’re just fine, Lord, thanks anyway!

Good gifts from God belong in His will.

Rest in the knowledge that He is in control.

Allow all of His gifts to mold you into who He wants you to become.

Good can mean lots of things.

To our Lord, it means for your very best.

Photos by Toa Heftiba, Christopher Jolly, Cody Black, and Kira auf der Heide on Unsplash

Faith in the Valley

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For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:8-9

How do you have faith when God allows things you wish He wouldn’t?

What then?

God is sovereign over all.

Yes, our world is broken.

But nothing happens in this life without first filtering through God’s hands.

God’s hands hold our future before it is ever brought to us.

His sovereign knowledge over all things perfectly decides things He allows and does not allow.

There’s comfort in that.

Comfort in knowing all things have first been held in His hands.

Isaiah 55: 8-9 reminds us “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord.  “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”

Because God knows the beginning from the end, His ways and thoughts include the big picture.

Way more than little ole us.

He thinks beyond our momentary crisis.

He wants to shape our long term character.

His sight is beyond our day’s irritation or foul mood.

His purposes are to mold us into the person He sees us as.

The way He already sees us.

God has great plans for us.

But will we cooperate?

All comes back to trust.

What if God wants to use your trials to bless others?

To quicken the healing of their wounds?

In order to do that you must walk through, successfully to the other side of the valley.

But I don’t want the valley.

I didn’t ask for the valley.

My friend’s valley’s never look as deep as mine.

It’s not fair.

I know.

More importantly, God knows.

He sees it all.

Remember, He knows the beginning from the end.

And that includes yours.

He saw you years before you were born and He knows when you’ll join Him in heaven.

And everything in between.

He also sees how you can be.

But only with His help.

He sees you whole.

Happy.

Trusting Him with all things like a small child.

Place your trust back into His capable hands.

Give your worries and fears back to Him.

And trust Him with your future.

After all, He’s already there.

Photos by Rich Martello, David Marcu, niko photos, and Hugo Fergusson on Unsplash

Devouring Your Family

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Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8

Are you watching?

Or are you blind?

The devil is constantly looking for a way in.

A way into your home, your children, yourself.

He can’t stop the good gifts God provides; however, he can mess things up.

He can cause conflict where there shouldn’t be any.

He can wilt your relationships, causing them to wither away.

He can tempt your children, sucking them into the world instead.

He can cause you to focus on the wrong things.

To focus on the ugly, forgetting the beautiful.

I Peter 5:8 reminds us to “be sober minded; be watchful.”

Why?

Because “your adversary, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”

Who will be devoured?

Will it be you?

Your kids?

The devil might have lost because he knows you’re saved, heading to heaven.

However…..

Through YOUR choices, he can make you miserable here on earth.

He can negate your witness.

He can crush your spirits.

He can cause you to turn inward, focusing on all the wrong things.

Take back your ground.

Put the enemy on notice and declare once again your home is God’s.

Your children are God’s.

Your very self is also His.

Give the devil a piece of your mind and rise up.

He’s no less real then an existing lion sneaking up on your children, literally trying to devour them.

It’s really no different.

At all.

Take your stand.

And fight.

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Trapped Animal

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Like a muddied spring or a polluted fountain is a righteous man who gives way before the wicked. Proverbs 25:26

Ever feel backed into a corner?

Kinda like a trapped animal?

How would you react?

Defensively?

I would.

The flesh wants to be protected.

While maturity is always the goal, sometimes the flesh wins.

Differing points of view can complicate matters.

But in the end, what really matters?

Your response.

Your continued response.

When you feel misunderstood, what should you do?

Own your own actions.

Apologize when you give into your flesh.

But then you have a choice.

Especially if you’re alone in the conversation.

Still not feeling heard.

Do you hold on, digging your heals into the ground?

Or do you move on, beginning anew?

I choose life.

I choose beginning anew.

Even if my active mind can justify feelings, connecting the dots.

I choose to move on.

While that might sound like an odd choice, I ask myself this question:

What would God want me to do?

What does God want me to do?

Would He want me to keep carrying burdens alone?

Nope.

He wants it all, the good, the bad, and the ugly.

Picture that other person as Jesus.

Treat them as you would Him.

Because all humans deserve nothing less.

We don’t know what goes on in everyone’s minds.

As my students read To Kill a Mockingbird, I’m reminded to “walk around in other people’s shoes.”

We must look at things from their view.

Especially important when one doesn’t see eye to eye, or doesn’t feel heard.

Talk to God, asking Him to fill you with His compassion.

His love.

His understanding.

And move on.

Paste that smile on your face and stand tall.

Once your heart is clean, there’s nothing to worry about.

Because Jesus is all that matters.

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Depending Upon Him

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For God alone my soul waits in silence; from Him comes my salvation. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be greatly shaken. Psalm 62:1-2

Don’t hesitate.

Don’t stop and think.

Don’t be afraid to trust in God completely.

Even when you wait in silence.

God is still working.

Your peace is still secure.

His protection is still near, surrounding you like a fortress.

Depend upon Him.

Depend upon Him for strength to get through the day.

Depend upon Him for love to give to others.

Depend upon Him for peace to calm the storm.

Depend upon Him.

God says you will NOT be shaken from His protection.

You will NOT be thrown out from His presence when you are His.

When you choose to dwell with Him.

When He is your salvation.

When you choose to stand in God’s salvation, His protection and peace will steady the shaking, no matter how big or small.

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America

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First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior. 1 Timothy 2:1-3

How often do you pray for our country?

For our leaders?

The ones you like and don’t like?

You know we “wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” (Eph 6:12)

God urges us to pray for our leaders whom He has placed in power over us.

He reminds us how to live a peaceful and dignified life.

Through praying for our leaders and country.

Today is our country’s birthday.

Sweet land of liberty.

She’s not perfect, but nothing is.

Our framework demands respect for the process of change.

Our history is full of God’s grace (Washington’s Valley Forge), His mercy (Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation), and His strength (WW2 landings).

Thousands of more examples.

And yes, there are examples of our stupidity.

Slavery, abortion, discrimination, government corruption.

History needs to remain as it is.

The good, bad, and the ugly.

Learning from our mistakes, remembering God’s grace, and honoring our fallen heroes remains our duty for future generations.

Keeping all of our history doesn’t mean you agree with every decision.

With every event.

With every leader.

Today, our country is 244 years old.

May we remember that all men are created equal.

That they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights,

That among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

Long may our land be bright
With freedom’s holy light;
Protect us by thy might, great God, our King.

And God, please continue to shed Your grace on Thee.

Photos by specphotops, May, Stephanie McCabe, Justin Casey, Kevin Morris, & Samuel Branch on Unsplash

Walking With God

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You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fulness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore. Psalm 16:11

Do we have to know?

Do we have to know everything about our future?

How this decision will affect that one later on?

No, we do not.

In fact, we can not.

It’s impossible.

We can plan, but ultimately God is in control.

He is the author and finisher of all life.

When we daily place our trust into His capable hands, He guides us through all of life’s murky waters and the crystal clear ones, too.

I liken life to doors when I think about life’s decisions, big or small.

Sometimes God opens doors.

He opens them wide.

Step through with confidence.

Knowing God opens a door for you should remind you how much He thinks of you.

He knows your heart and as long as you are trusting Him with every breath, rest in the confidence of His goodness and mercy.

Even if the door is open just a crack, knowing He wants you to participate, open the door just a little bit more.

Tell fear to take a hike and stand confidently with God.

But sometimes He slams them in our face.

You might be walking down a certain path, but all the doors are closed.

You see an open door, run to it, but it’s slammed shut before you get there.

Ask God why.

Maybe He’s teaching you patience.

Or maybe He’s telling you no.

So, what should you do when you think you know what God wants you to do, but you’re not totally sure as you have let fear or anxiety in for a visit?

Walk confidently towards the door.

Push on it, and see if it opens.

If it does, take the hand of God and walk through.

Whatever is on the other side will be ok, as long as you are walking with God.

Walking with God means you have given yourself over to His purposes, trusting Him for every breath, every decision big or small.

Your heart is His.

Well, when you put it like that, let’s go!

Where do you want to take me, Lord?

You, Lord, are all I have, and You give me all I need; my future is in Your hands. How wonderful are Your gifts to me; how good they are!

I praise the Lord, because He guides me, and in the night my conscience warns me. I am always aware of the Lord’s presence; He is near, and nothing can shake me.

And so I am thankful and glad, and I feel completely secure, because You protect me from the power of death. I have served you faithfully, and You will not abandon me to the world of the dead.

You will show me the path that leads to life; Your presence fills me with joy
and brings me pleasure forever. Psalm 16:5-11

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Freedom or Slavery

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For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. Galatians 5:1

God has set you free.

Free.

Not yoked.

He has set you free for freedom.

He has saved you with the intent of freedom.

Freedom from what?

Sin.

The penalty of sin, which is death.

Literally.

What?

When we trust Jesus as our Savior, He literally saves us from eternal death.

It’s the most wonderful thing, but I’m not telling you anything new.

Most of us have known this since we were young.

But how else does He set us free?

He can set us free from fear.

Free from jealously.

Free from unloving.

Free from guilt.

The freedom Christ offers extends beyond salvation to the here and now.

His invitation extends to this life.

Paul reminds us to stand firm, choosing life.

Choosing God’s freedom.

To not give into our old ways, by listening to lies or succumbing to the flesh, which then becomes slavery.

When one isn’t free, they are a slave.

What ideas, actions, or thoughts still enslave you?

We must be renewed by God every day, but that takes a choice.

Your choice.

Your choice to walk in God’s freedom, or to yoke yourself back with the old ways.

Yoking to the old equals slavery.

Walking with God and living with His power equals freedom.

Choose to walk in the freedom of God.

Keep doing it, standing firm with the help of Almighty God.

And every time you do so, your slavery ties to sin will be break, making this life a whole lot more peaceful.

Keep choosing God’s reactions and it will become more of a habit as you throw off the yoke of slavery to sin.

Experience the freedom of God.

Choose it.

And with His power, withstand the submission to your familiar yoke of slavery.

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Wisdom

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For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding; He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk in integrity, guarding the paths of justice and watching over the way of His saints. Proverbs 2:6-8

Isn’t it amazing the Lord simply gives wisdom to us?

From His mouth comes forth knowledge AND understanding?

God actually stores up sound wisdom for us?

You might argue we’re not exactly upright people.

Yes, but no one is perfect, except God.

The upright are those who seek God for their very lives.

I guess the question remains, do we want God’s wisdom?

I suppose if you say No, then I’d say why the heck not?

Walking with God is not stifling.

Doesn’t cramp my style in the very least.

It’s freedom.

Let’s continue.

Verse 7 shows us how God’s wisdom is an actual barrier to evil.

His wisdom protects us from poor choices, which, one could argue, could easily become evil.

Think about the recent looting.

Poor choices which have become evil.

Destruction is evil and one has the choice to participate.

Making it relevant to more, putting yourself above your spouse is a poor choice.

Do that again and again and the relationship will never be the same unless you return to God’s wisdom, asking forgiveness of the one you love.

How many hundreds of choices do you make on a daily basis?

Too many to count.

So many opportunities to walk under God’s protection using His wisdom.

And so many chances to step out from His umbrella, choosing instead to follow the flesh.

Stand with me under the shelter of Almighty God.

Proverbs 2:8 closes with reminding us how God guards and watches over the ways of His saints.

Doesn’t mean we won’t have trials or pain.

But standing under God’s umbrella, His wisdom will guide us, inviting the very peace of God.

Photos by Marionel Luciano, Wilhelm Gunkel, Joyce McCown, and Timothy Eberly on Unsplash

Knock, Knock

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“In the day of my trouble I shall call upon You, for You will answer me. Psalm 86:7

When darkness knocks at your door, why do you open it?

Why answer at all?

Curious?

You’re asking for trouble.

You know that.

Ignore it.

Ignore the persisting knock of darkness.

Ignore the whispers of doubt.

Ignore the feelings of condemnation.

Unloved.

Unwanted.

Mediate on God’s breathed words of life.

Focus on the Bible and the truth of God’s words.

Focus on Him and for heaven’s sake, don’t open the door to darkness again.

Or better yet, have God answer it.

Photos by Siora Photography,  Mitchell Luo, & Jan Tinneberg on Unsplash

Noticed

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For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to give strong support to those whose heart is blameless toward him. 2 Chronicles 16:9

We all want to be noticed.

Beg for it, really.

Comes down to love.

Feeling loved.

Valued.

Noticed.

How do you notice people?

How do you value them?

Today, I took the time to notice my friend.

She needed extra love.

Attention.

Value.

And you know what?

I came away feeling valued, too.

Why?

Because God had used me.

He had deemed me available to be His hands and feet.

Completely an honor when you think about it.

Are you available to God?

Can He use you?

How do you value your loved ones?

How do you affirm your spouse?

Who do you need to notice?

When you are available, the life of Almighty God will pour through your hands into the ones you notice.

They and you will feel valued.

Because you are.

Photos by Rodion Kutsaev,  Julian Berengar Sölter, & Kristaps Ungurs on Unsplash

Power of Your Witness

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Come and hear, all you who fear God, and I will tell what He has done for my soul. Psalm 66:16

Are you so sold out for the cause of Christ that you minimize yourself?

You subtract your needs before others?

Are you so concerned for the love of God to flow through you that you put others before yourself?

Consistently?

Or are you still focused on number one?

Yourself?

And when it’s convenient, you put others before yourself?

This life is but a blip.

A drop in all of eternity.

Yes, God created us to live on this earth.

Yes, God created pleasure.

But is that your focus?

Is meeting your needs of comfort number one to you?

God’s greatest need from us is not preaching.

Dare I say most humans in at least America have heard it time and time again.

It’s serving.

It’s pouring out God’s love and mercy on our neighbors.

It’s literally being the hands and feet of Jesus.

It’s our witness.

When others see how different we are because of God,

When others see how much we care about them first,

When are a witness of the living God,

Hearts become open to God changing them.

So I must ask you this:

How are you helping people’s hearts to open?

Or instead, are you helping hearts to stay closed?

Photos by Hans Veth & Becca Tapert on Unsplash

Sin is Sin

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But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death. James 1:14-15

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When you think about what Jesus died for…

All that He died for,  what do you think about?

Big bad sins?

Like cold blood murder?

Armed robbery?

Abortion?

Drunkenness?

Or smaller sins?

Like selfishness?

Snide remarks?

Envy or jealously?

Or, gulp, pride?

The Bible says a sin is a sin.

Meaning, all sins are equal before God as they are all not from Him.

In fact, sin is the opposite of His holiness.

Sometimes we think we don’t need God as much as that guy over there.

The guy who committed the bigger sin.

Once we think that, our pride sins and once again, we need the forgiveness of God.

When Jesus died for our sins, OUR sins, He died for all of them.

Big or small.

One or many.

Daily or even more often.

Jesus died for our choices.

He died for us.

Photos by Michel Paz, Aaron Burden, & Ben White on Unsplash

Attracted to Godliness

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…make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 1:5-8

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Are you?

Attracted to godliness?

Or are you enamored by the things of this world?

Enthralled by power, status, money, and things?

Do you desire goodness or do you selfishly want whatever toots your horn?

Is your first thought the service of others or do you want others to serve you?

Are your needs first or are the needs of others above yours?

When you are all by yourself, would God himself be at home by your side or would you be covered in embarrassment at your actions, thoughts, or attitudes?

Deep down, do you cherish God’s opinion, or do you want to feed the hunger of your flesh?

Are you attracted to godliness?

Or are you living for yourself?

Think a moment.

And repent, knowing it’s impossible to be completely attracted to godliness aside from the grace and strength of God Himself.

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Photos by Annie Spratt on Unsplash