This is a prayer I seem to pray for others, but fail to live for myself. I love to embrace things I like and love to experience wonderful things. But what about when life goes terribly wrong? Are we as eager to embrace difficulty and trial? Can we find joy, even as we experience pain?
This is the first I've written in many, many months. Various trials in life have stiffled my ability to get words to paper. Yet in the stillness of my new and longer commute (yeah - didn't want that either), there seems a lot God is speaking to me and its time to start sharing these messages again.
My "book" (uh huh) was entitled, "Learning to be Content in a Live You Didn't Choose". God's got a lot to teach each of us on this topic. Its easy to be content when things are going well. But can one find contentment when EVERYTHING in life is appearing a polar opposite to what you'd hope and planned?
Someone reminded me many months ago... "We get so frustrated when all we've hoped and dreamed seems to be slipping from our grasp. But God has promised more than we can ask or imagine. Why then, are we so determined to be limited by our own imaginations?"
Can you grow in trust of God enough, to really be satisfied with ANYTHING he allows into your life? Will you believe him enough to embrace everything, not just the good stuff? Will you open your heart and mind to experience everything, be fully in it, each moment, without trying to escape or control it?
Chew on these... and stay tuned...
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Sunday, July 20, 2008
How to Survive Spiritual Attack: Love and Obey
"As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father's commands and remain in his love." John 15:9-10
God is the vine. We are the branches. We need him for nourishment. Without him, we can do no good thing, both in this world and for the next, especially as difficult times strain our natural human capabilities. God is a gardener, who prunes us, so that we can bear good fruit. If we fail to bear fruit, we are of no use to him. We must abide.
This is what we've covered so far in John 15. Today, I pick up in verse 9. Verse 9 and 10 speak specifically to how we abide. We love and we obey God's commands.
The Truth about Spiritual Warfare
Spiritual warfare is part of our normal spiritual experience. It is with us each day. However, I believe there are times and circumstances when the attacks seem to be more intense or frequent, usually when the enemy feels we're more dangerous to destruction he's trying to achieve. It is love that helps us overcome this. It is obedience that keeps us safe.
We went to see The Dark Knight Friday. Its a very good movie, but I couldn't escape the depths of evil in The Joker. He reaped destruction for the pure fun of it. He wasn't motivated by money, maybe not even power. He was not out for revenge or a cause. He simply wanted to destroy. Its been a while since I've seen such a vivid portrayal on the big screen of how I envision Satan.
I feel I'm surrounded by an extraordinary amount of spiritual warfare lately. 1 Peter 5:8-9 seems to keep coming up. "Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings."
Be Proactive in Training
In love and obedience, we have to be proactive. We have to be alert enough to see the enemy prowling and we must be self-controlled enough, in our every day experiences and behaviors, that when the attacks occur, the ability to do our part, love and obey, is our very nature.
Jesus is, as always, our example. Though God himself, he did not seek equality with the Father. He stayed close to the Father's love and obeyed him... even when it was hard, even when it didn't make sense, even when it would cost him his life.
When life is difficult, the enemy loves to entice to the wrong things for which to sustain us. Maybe its intellect. Maybe its people. Maybe its a vice or addiction. With so much going on in my life and those around me right now, I need to hold VERY close to the vine. I want to do that properly. I ask God, "How do I do that?" Same answer. "Love and obey."
Be Intentional in Removing All Barriers
Hebrews 12:1 says we have to throw off everything that hinders. God has revealed to me this week that what hinders me from closeness to him, are all the things I look to for comfort instead of him. I may do a whole blog on this, but for now, my point is... if God loves us, more than we can ask or imagine, and we know to survive, we need to remain in his love, we need to be obedient in throwing off everything that entangles, so that in those trials of life, we can stand firm against the enemy's attacks.
I spent a good portion of the week running through each "idol" I've erected in my life. I need to vanquish them. I specifically use the word "vanquish" because this is not just about bad habits; it is truly a spiritual battle that must be fought with spiritual weapons. God's given me his Word, our one offensive weapon (Eph 6:17), so that I know his love and have instructions on how to obey. The enemy is helpless when we insist on loving each other and obeying God's word. God will give me strength to do it, if I ask... but the first step is mine. I have to want to love and obey.
Will You Accept a Challenge?
Where might there be a wall between you and God today? Is it in understanding his love? Is it in your failure to love others? Are you living in disobedience? Are you harboring idols?
If you want to bear fruit, good fruit, if want to survive hard times, examine this, and get back to the vine. Apart from the vine, you'll only stay lost.
Father God, help me to feel your love today. Help me to love today. May I never give the enemy a foothold by holding onto pain, bitterness, selfishness, or anger in interpersonal relationships. Soften my heart and guide my way in navigating conflict.
Lord, help me to resist temptation. I don't want anything in between you and me, not a habit, a sin, a person, a desire, an idol... nothing. Help me to be alert and see the enemy's attacks so I can fight with the weapons you've given me. May I grow in knowledge of your word, so I have it ready as I need it.
I pray for all these reading it, that they may feel the same... and that you do the same, for them. Help them feel your love, love others, and obey your commands. AMEN.
God is the vine. We are the branches. We need him for nourishment. Without him, we can do no good thing, both in this world and for the next, especially as difficult times strain our natural human capabilities. God is a gardener, who prunes us, so that we can bear good fruit. If we fail to bear fruit, we are of no use to him. We must abide.
This is what we've covered so far in John 15. Today, I pick up in verse 9. Verse 9 and 10 speak specifically to how we abide. We love and we obey God's commands.
The Truth about Spiritual Warfare
Spiritual warfare is part of our normal spiritual experience. It is with us each day. However, I believe there are times and circumstances when the attacks seem to be more intense or frequent, usually when the enemy feels we're more dangerous to destruction he's trying to achieve. It is love that helps us overcome this. It is obedience that keeps us safe.
We went to see The Dark Knight Friday. Its a very good movie, but I couldn't escape the depths of evil in The Joker. He reaped destruction for the pure fun of it. He wasn't motivated by money, maybe not even power. He was not out for revenge or a cause. He simply wanted to destroy. Its been a while since I've seen such a vivid portrayal on the big screen of how I envision Satan.
I feel I'm surrounded by an extraordinary amount of spiritual warfare lately. 1 Peter 5:8-9 seems to keep coming up. "Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings."
Be Proactive in Training
In love and obedience, we have to be proactive. We have to be alert enough to see the enemy prowling and we must be self-controlled enough, in our every day experiences and behaviors, that when the attacks occur, the ability to do our part, love and obey, is our very nature.
Jesus is, as always, our example. Though God himself, he did not seek equality with the Father. He stayed close to the Father's love and obeyed him... even when it was hard, even when it didn't make sense, even when it would cost him his life.
When life is difficult, the enemy loves to entice to the wrong things for which to sustain us. Maybe its intellect. Maybe its people. Maybe its a vice or addiction. With so much going on in my life and those around me right now, I need to hold VERY close to the vine. I want to do that properly. I ask God, "How do I do that?" Same answer. "Love and obey."
Be Intentional in Removing All Barriers
Hebrews 12:1 says we have to throw off everything that hinders. God has revealed to me this week that what hinders me from closeness to him, are all the things I look to for comfort instead of him. I may do a whole blog on this, but for now, my point is... if God loves us, more than we can ask or imagine, and we know to survive, we need to remain in his love, we need to be obedient in throwing off everything that entangles, so that in those trials of life, we can stand firm against the enemy's attacks.
I spent a good portion of the week running through each "idol" I've erected in my life. I need to vanquish them. I specifically use the word "vanquish" because this is not just about bad habits; it is truly a spiritual battle that must be fought with spiritual weapons. God's given me his Word, our one offensive weapon (Eph 6:17), so that I know his love and have instructions on how to obey. The enemy is helpless when we insist on loving each other and obeying God's word. God will give me strength to do it, if I ask... but the first step is mine. I have to want to love and obey.
Will You Accept a Challenge?
Where might there be a wall between you and God today? Is it in understanding his love? Is it in your failure to love others? Are you living in disobedience? Are you harboring idols?
If you want to bear fruit, good fruit, if want to survive hard times, examine this, and get back to the vine. Apart from the vine, you'll only stay lost.
Father God, help me to feel your love today. Help me to love today. May I never give the enemy a foothold by holding onto pain, bitterness, selfishness, or anger in interpersonal relationships. Soften my heart and guide my way in navigating conflict.
Lord, help me to resist temptation. I don't want anything in between you and me, not a habit, a sin, a person, a desire, an idol... nothing. Help me to be alert and see the enemy's attacks so I can fight with the weapons you've given me. May I grow in knowledge of your word, so I have it ready as I need it.
I pray for all these reading it, that they may feel the same... and that you do the same, for them. Help them feel your love, love others, and obey your commands. AMEN.
Friday, July 11, 2008
The Brokenhearted
As I was writing my piece on pruning, a writer friend asked me to review her devotional on the brokenhearted. Its core verse sticks with me.
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” - Psalm 147:3
When we look at pruning (the topic of my last blog, if you missed it), it occurs because there is something in us that needs to be cut in order to achieve God’s will in us. These things normally represent sin patterns, bad behaviors that inhibit us. But there are far more difficult circumstances, of no doing of our own, that God would use to mold us and others through our witness.
So Many Questions
Rarely do we understand these things. They are extremely painful and in a worldly sense, seem to prove of no good purpose. I think of those around me struggling with a lot of “Why?”s. A serviceman with a family is killed, a job is lost, a child mistreated, health dramatically compromised. “Why God?!”
I think of my own times of broken heartedness. They’ve all been about the loss of something precious. I've asked “Why?” thousands of times. I ask God “Why?” on many issues still. But the answers don’t matter.
We cannot understand God’s ways all the time, maybe not even most of the time. Nonetheless, we have his promises and we have to believe him. Again I say, we have to know our God and hold to that truth.
But He is Close
Scripture (above) says that God heals the broken hearted and binds up their wounds. I think though more precious to me is this verse:
“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18
To be honest, in God’s economy, I’m not sure what healing means. I don’t know what binding up wounds means. I know plenty who’ve never been healed and/or walk with wounds every day.
I do know though what it means that God is close. I know what it means, that he will come to the rescue of those crushed in spirit. I’ve experienced it! I’ve experienced it more than once.
I was driving home tonight, dealing with some of my own broken heartedness and a truly special song came on the radio. It’s called “Be Still” by Storyside B. The refrain chocked me up.
“When I feel like caving in, my heart, my soul is wearing thin, I just want to give up and nothing seems at all to add up. Can you hear my, Lord? My face is on the floor. Its then you whisper in my ear. Be still and know that I am here. We are not alone.”
Hold Promises Tight
I love Moses’ words to Joshua: “The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." Deut 31:8
This is a promise to all of us. It’s innate in God’s character and his love for us. He will NOT leave you. He is close to the brokenhearted. He will not forsake you. Because of this, you don’t have to be afraid. You can fight discouragement.
We know the familiar verse, Romans 8:28: “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.”
The word “all” is another promise. It’s not some things, even most things, it’s ALL things. Does this mean we’ll always get our way? Get our prayers answered as we hope? Sadly, heck no. But it is a promise that God works everything, all our struggles, all our pain, the broken heartedness, for good.
I encourage the broken hearted to read all of Romans 12. It talks how we are alive in the spirit and should not focus on this world. It says our present sufferings are nothing compared to what God will do through them. It says we are more than conquerors, because God is for us, not against us.
Jesus says that in this world we will have trouble (John 16:33). Yup. You only need to be alive to get that one. But we need to remember just after that, he reminds us, that he’s conquered this world.
The Fruit of the Brokenhearted
Though often frustrating, it’s true, that God does the most powerful things, the most brilliant, amazing work, through desperate trials and heartache. I have never learned more than through these times. I’ve never seen God glorified more than watching him work in and through me at these times or others in the moments of their distress. I’ve seen my trials and those of others, spur on yet others to tremendous growth and good works. We don’t need all the answers; we just need to remember this.
Are you brokenhearted today? Oh how God loves you and will use this. Your circumstances might suck. But in all his love for you, he promises to not waste it and do things through it you can’t even begin to imagine. Oh dear brothers and sisters, God will strut his stuff in getting you and others through your pain. It is a chance for you to minister even greater and produce more beautiful fruit for the kingdom, than you ever could have produced any other way. Its a hard task... and you probably wish he'd asked someone else. But - Will you hold tight and believe him for that... for those promises?
I pray you do. And I pray that God, the God of all Comforts, will feel as close to you as all he promised, every step of the way.
Father God, we have so many questions. I’m not going to ask anymore. I’m going to trust you. I’m going to trust your methods, your decisions, and your plan. I pray you enable me to be a witness, no matter my circumstance. Strengthen me. If possible, be gracious to me and help me envision the bigger picture. But even if you can't, may I be faithful anyway.
Lord, be close to the broken hearted today. Come to their aid. You may choose not to change their circumstance. In fact, it could even get worse. Nonetheless, we know you promise to be there. You will provide the comfort, the love, the peace, to get through. You will use it in huge ways. Help us to not lose sight of this, in spite of our very natural and understandable humanness. Help us, Jesus. AMEN.
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” - Psalm 147:3
When we look at pruning (the topic of my last blog, if you missed it), it occurs because there is something in us that needs to be cut in order to achieve God’s will in us. These things normally represent sin patterns, bad behaviors that inhibit us. But there are far more difficult circumstances, of no doing of our own, that God would use to mold us and others through our witness.
So Many Questions
Rarely do we understand these things. They are extremely painful and in a worldly sense, seem to prove of no good purpose. I think of those around me struggling with a lot of “Why?”s. A serviceman with a family is killed, a job is lost, a child mistreated, health dramatically compromised. “Why God?!”
I think of my own times of broken heartedness. They’ve all been about the loss of something precious. I've asked “Why?” thousands of times. I ask God “Why?” on many issues still. But the answers don’t matter.
We cannot understand God’s ways all the time, maybe not even most of the time. Nonetheless, we have his promises and we have to believe him. Again I say, we have to know our God and hold to that truth.
But He is Close
Scripture (above) says that God heals the broken hearted and binds up their wounds. I think though more precious to me is this verse:
“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18
To be honest, in God’s economy, I’m not sure what healing means. I don’t know what binding up wounds means. I know plenty who’ve never been healed and/or walk with wounds every day.
I do know though what it means that God is close. I know what it means, that he will come to the rescue of those crushed in spirit. I’ve experienced it! I’ve experienced it more than once.
I was driving home tonight, dealing with some of my own broken heartedness and a truly special song came on the radio. It’s called “Be Still” by Storyside B. The refrain chocked me up.
“When I feel like caving in, my heart, my soul is wearing thin, I just want to give up and nothing seems at all to add up. Can you hear my, Lord? My face is on the floor. Its then you whisper in my ear. Be still and know that I am here. We are not alone.”
Hold Promises Tight
I love Moses’ words to Joshua: “The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." Deut 31:8
This is a promise to all of us. It’s innate in God’s character and his love for us. He will NOT leave you. He is close to the brokenhearted. He will not forsake you. Because of this, you don’t have to be afraid. You can fight discouragement.
We know the familiar verse, Romans 8:28: “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.”
The word “all” is another promise. It’s not some things, even most things, it’s ALL things. Does this mean we’ll always get our way? Get our prayers answered as we hope? Sadly, heck no. But it is a promise that God works everything, all our struggles, all our pain, the broken heartedness, for good.
I encourage the broken hearted to read all of Romans 12. It talks how we are alive in the spirit and should not focus on this world. It says our present sufferings are nothing compared to what God will do through them. It says we are more than conquerors, because God is for us, not against us.
Jesus says that in this world we will have trouble (John 16:33). Yup. You only need to be alive to get that one. But we need to remember just after that, he reminds us, that he’s conquered this world.
The Fruit of the Brokenhearted
Though often frustrating, it’s true, that God does the most powerful things, the most brilliant, amazing work, through desperate trials and heartache. I have never learned more than through these times. I’ve never seen God glorified more than watching him work in and through me at these times or others in the moments of their distress. I’ve seen my trials and those of others, spur on yet others to tremendous growth and good works. We don’t need all the answers; we just need to remember this.
Are you brokenhearted today? Oh how God loves you and will use this. Your circumstances might suck. But in all his love for you, he promises to not waste it and do things through it you can’t even begin to imagine. Oh dear brothers and sisters, God will strut his stuff in getting you and others through your pain. It is a chance for you to minister even greater and produce more beautiful fruit for the kingdom, than you ever could have produced any other way. Its a hard task... and you probably wish he'd asked someone else. But - Will you hold tight and believe him for that... for those promises?
I pray you do. And I pray that God, the God of all Comforts, will feel as close to you as all he promised, every step of the way.
Father God, we have so many questions. I’m not going to ask anymore. I’m going to trust you. I’m going to trust your methods, your decisions, and your plan. I pray you enable me to be a witness, no matter my circumstance. Strengthen me. If possible, be gracious to me and help me envision the bigger picture. But even if you can't, may I be faithful anyway.
Lord, be close to the broken hearted today. Come to their aid. You may choose not to change their circumstance. In fact, it could even get worse. Nonetheless, we know you promise to be there. You will provide the comfort, the love, the peace, to get through. You will use it in huge ways. Help us to not lose sight of this, in spite of our very natural and understandable humanness. Help us, Jesus. AMEN.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
When Pruning Hurts
My nieces are at that age where they question everything. “Why? Why?” is common from their mouths. When I think of it though, I can be a bit of a three year old when talking to God.
“God, why can’t I have this?” “Why isn’t working this out?” “God, this isn’t fair – Why that for them and I’m stuck this?” “I want to!” "Please fix this."
Ah… discipline. God has to weed our childish ways out of us. So often we want from the wrong motives or we want, because in our hearts, we’ve made something an idol. God will not be an enabler in setting up idols against himself. Logical, I suppose.
In fact, God is far more apt to put us through a process of pruning to remove all the wrong thinking, bad behaviors, idol worship, and unhealthy living from our lives. Half the time we don’t realize the detriment these things are doing to us. Fortunately, he does and isn’t about to let us get away with anything.
"I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” John 15:1-2
Several years ago, I helped my dad prune some bushes in the front yard. They were pretty bad off, with a lot of dead branches and even the beginnings of some disease. If there were any hopes of them surviving, I was going to have to trim them back pretty far.
As I clipped away, I began to feel guilty and speak to the plant. “I’m so sorry I have to cut off so much. I just have to in order to save you.” I trimmed so far, the bush just looked sad. Yet, it had to be done.
The more I cut, the worse felt… until I got it. This is God with us.
All of the things that pull us away from Him and/or hurt us, have to be cut away. Some times, it only takes a gentle pruning. But in some cases, he has to remove entire branches, that fail to produce fruit. Branches, that if left unattended, can damage the entire plant (me). The more gangrenous the sin in our lives, the more deeply he’ll need to cut. Deep pruning hurts.
God doesn’t like to see me hurt, but he knows that he must prune me, to make me the godly women he envisions. He's doing it to save me... from myself. He wants me to bear amazing fruit, not small and wimpy fruit. The properly pruned plant, bears far more beautiful and savory fruit than the plant left unattended.
I take an honest look at myself. There are some simple areas in my life that could use some gentle pruning. They’re areas of my life, that are not at huge risk, but could use a trim, to enable even greater growth and fruit. However, there other areas of my life, thought patterns, desires, habits, ways of dealing with certain issues, people, that may soon require dramatic cutting if I don’t get a handle on them. Some may already be at that stage and I should be prepared for the process, even willing no matter how hard it is, for the good of me as God’s plant. Its going to hurt, but it will be very worth it, to see the end result.
How about you? Are you currently being pruned? Believe God that its out of his love. Are there areas in your life that may need a trim? Beware. Take action before deep cutting is necessary.
Before I conclude, I'd be remiss if I didn't make clear that not all hardship, pain, and suffering, is pruning. Pruning is about cutting out the junk in us. Clearly, God will use all things for our good and to his glory (Romans 8:12), but we know that not all bad is the result of errors or poor decisions we make. That's important to understand. Examine today, what in you may require a prune. Tomorrow, we'll talk about other challenges of life the gardener oversees.
Father God, I know that its out of your great love for me that you trim back everything in me that doesn't bear fruit, so that the strong parts of me may be built up to grow tremendous fruit. I may not like the pruning process. It may hurt quite a bit. But I am willingly allow it... in fact ask you for it. I trust you Lord. I pray each of us grows in trust of you, in such a way that we're willing to be pruned in order to be who you have called us to be. AMEN.
“God, why can’t I have this?” “Why isn’t working this out?” “God, this isn’t fair – Why that for them and I’m stuck this?” “I want to!” "Please fix this."
Ah… discipline. God has to weed our childish ways out of us. So often we want from the wrong motives or we want, because in our hearts, we’ve made something an idol. God will not be an enabler in setting up idols against himself. Logical, I suppose.
In fact, God is far more apt to put us through a process of pruning to remove all the wrong thinking, bad behaviors, idol worship, and unhealthy living from our lives. Half the time we don’t realize the detriment these things are doing to us. Fortunately, he does and isn’t about to let us get away with anything.
"I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” John 15:1-2
Several years ago, I helped my dad prune some bushes in the front yard. They were pretty bad off, with a lot of dead branches and even the beginnings of some disease. If there were any hopes of them surviving, I was going to have to trim them back pretty far.
As I clipped away, I began to feel guilty and speak to the plant. “I’m so sorry I have to cut off so much. I just have to in order to save you.” I trimmed so far, the bush just looked sad. Yet, it had to be done.
The more I cut, the worse felt… until I got it. This is God with us.
All of the things that pull us away from Him and/or hurt us, have to be cut away. Some times, it only takes a gentle pruning. But in some cases, he has to remove entire branches, that fail to produce fruit. Branches, that if left unattended, can damage the entire plant (me). The more gangrenous the sin in our lives, the more deeply he’ll need to cut. Deep pruning hurts.
God doesn’t like to see me hurt, but he knows that he must prune me, to make me the godly women he envisions. He's doing it to save me... from myself. He wants me to bear amazing fruit, not small and wimpy fruit. The properly pruned plant, bears far more beautiful and savory fruit than the plant left unattended.
I take an honest look at myself. There are some simple areas in my life that could use some gentle pruning. They’re areas of my life, that are not at huge risk, but could use a trim, to enable even greater growth and fruit. However, there other areas of my life, thought patterns, desires, habits, ways of dealing with certain issues, people, that may soon require dramatic cutting if I don’t get a handle on them. Some may already be at that stage and I should be prepared for the process, even willing no matter how hard it is, for the good of me as God’s plant. Its going to hurt, but it will be very worth it, to see the end result.
How about you? Are you currently being pruned? Believe God that its out of his love. Are there areas in your life that may need a trim? Beware. Take action before deep cutting is necessary.
Before I conclude, I'd be remiss if I didn't make clear that not all hardship, pain, and suffering, is pruning. Pruning is about cutting out the junk in us. Clearly, God will use all things for our good and to his glory (Romans 8:12), but we know that not all bad is the result of errors or poor decisions we make. That's important to understand. Examine today, what in you may require a prune. Tomorrow, we'll talk about other challenges of life the gardener oversees.
Father God, I know that its out of your great love for me that you trim back everything in me that doesn't bear fruit, so that the strong parts of me may be built up to grow tremendous fruit. I may not like the pruning process. It may hurt quite a bit. But I am willingly allow it... in fact ask you for it. I trust you Lord. I pray each of us grows in trust of you, in such a way that we're willing to be pruned in order to be who you have called us to be. AMEN.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Abide in Me
If you were asked what God wants from you, what would you say?
I believe he wants our hearts. He wants to be in relationship with us.
As I continue to ask God to reveal himself and as I stop to listen to themes, there’s a scripture passage that seems to come up, time and time again. It’s familiar, but worth examining repeatedly. Over the next week, I’ll share with you some of how God is speaking through John 15:1-17.
Today, I focus on verses 4-8 and the word “remain”.
“Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you. This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.”
The King James version translates remain as “abide”. Webster’s defines abide as “bear patiently” or “remain stable”. To me it means, hold tightly, rely on, trust.
Both verse 4 and 5 say that if we remain in him (God) we will bear much fruit. Galatians 5:22-23 says that this “fruit” is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Anyone who seeks good character, seeks these attributes for themselves.
Why Abide?
On some level and in normal circumstances, we can do ok, out of our own effort. Yet, our own life experiences have shown us, in ourselves and others, that these things are short lived in difficult situations. Is it not all the more important to display these traits in hard times?
The key then is remaining in God. Both verse 4 and 5 say without remaining in God, we can do nothing. In fact, it says it twice! Repetition likely means its an important concept to grasp. You may dispute this, but I at least believe it means we can do nothing of eternal significance without God and the little worldly significance we can provide, wavers with our circumstances, emotions, hormones, health, etc.
He is the vine and we are a branch. The vine feeds the branch. Can you imagine any fruit trying to grow on its own without proper nourishment from the vine?
I love vineyards, so I’ve seen a lot of vines. The parent vine is big and strong. It’s like an artery of life. The branches are more fragile. They're important as where the fruit is affixed, but they are thin and can easily break off, killing the fruit.
When the winds of life come upon us, our ability to produce this fruit on our own is diminished. It says we will wither and be rendered so helpless, worthless, that we might as well be thrown in the fire. But with God, anything is possible.
If we remain in him, we can ask for anything, especially these bits of positive character, and he’ll provide. He wants us to exhibit this character so he might show himself to the world as he pours though us. As his workmanship (Ephesians 2:10), we reveal who his is.
Application
As I wrestle with so many things right now, I asked God: “What do I do?”
He answered: “Keep doing what you’re doing. Remember who I am. Remind others of who I am. Hold tight to me. “
He asked me to abide. No matter how difficult, not matter what life brings, abide. That’s what I’ll do.
Father God, help me to abide in you. I know above all else you want my heart. You want me to seek your face (Jeremiah 29:13). You want me to look to you for wisdom (James 1:5). You want me to trust you (Hebrews 11:6). No matter my circumstances, may I always remember to stay close to you. You are the vine and I am a branch. Separated from you, I know I can do nothing.
I pray for all those reading this, that they will understand your love for them (Ephesians 3:18). I pray they will understand that more than anything, you just want their hearts. You want to care for them, like a careful gardener nurtures its prized rose. May these choose to abide in you. AMEN
I believe he wants our hearts. He wants to be in relationship with us.
As I continue to ask God to reveal himself and as I stop to listen to themes, there’s a scripture passage that seems to come up, time and time again. It’s familiar, but worth examining repeatedly. Over the next week, I’ll share with you some of how God is speaking through John 15:1-17.
Today, I focus on verses 4-8 and the word “remain”.
“Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you. This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.”
The King James version translates remain as “abide”. Webster’s defines abide as “bear patiently” or “remain stable”. To me it means, hold tightly, rely on, trust.
Both verse 4 and 5 say that if we remain in him (God) we will bear much fruit. Galatians 5:22-23 says that this “fruit” is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Anyone who seeks good character, seeks these attributes for themselves.
Why Abide?
On some level and in normal circumstances, we can do ok, out of our own effort. Yet, our own life experiences have shown us, in ourselves and others, that these things are short lived in difficult situations. Is it not all the more important to display these traits in hard times?
The key then is remaining in God. Both verse 4 and 5 say without remaining in God, we can do nothing. In fact, it says it twice! Repetition likely means its an important concept to grasp. You may dispute this, but I at least believe it means we can do nothing of eternal significance without God and the little worldly significance we can provide, wavers with our circumstances, emotions, hormones, health, etc.
He is the vine and we are a branch. The vine feeds the branch. Can you imagine any fruit trying to grow on its own without proper nourishment from the vine?
I love vineyards, so I’ve seen a lot of vines. The parent vine is big and strong. It’s like an artery of life. The branches are more fragile. They're important as where the fruit is affixed, but they are thin and can easily break off, killing the fruit.
When the winds of life come upon us, our ability to produce this fruit on our own is diminished. It says we will wither and be rendered so helpless, worthless, that we might as well be thrown in the fire. But with God, anything is possible.
If we remain in him, we can ask for anything, especially these bits of positive character, and he’ll provide. He wants us to exhibit this character so he might show himself to the world as he pours though us. As his workmanship (Ephesians 2:10), we reveal who his is.
Application
As I wrestle with so many things right now, I asked God: “What do I do?”
He answered: “Keep doing what you’re doing. Remember who I am. Remind others of who I am. Hold tight to me. “
He asked me to abide. No matter how difficult, not matter what life brings, abide. That’s what I’ll do.
Father God, help me to abide in you. I know above all else you want my heart. You want me to seek your face (Jeremiah 29:13). You want me to look to you for wisdom (James 1:5). You want me to trust you (Hebrews 11:6). No matter my circumstances, may I always remember to stay close to you. You are the vine and I am a branch. Separated from you, I know I can do nothing.
I pray for all those reading this, that they will understand your love for them (Ephesians 3:18). I pray they will understand that more than anything, you just want their hearts. You want to care for them, like a careful gardener nurtures its prized rose. May these choose to abide in you. AMEN
Monday, July 7, 2008
Sharing Scripture on Service at Chiu/Ignacio Wedding
What a truly cool weekend to watch two wonderful people get married. Talk about blessings! These two met at the wedding of an older sibling and then fell in love long distance... MD to China! (Charissa was studing Chinese abroad)
One of the neatest things about them them, is not only their commitment to each other, but to serving the world. I love how so many of my friends are completely sold out committed to fighting poverty and injustice in the world. I'm blow away how many are heading out on significant international projects in the next three months! Wild.
Anyway... all this in mind, Herb and Charissa asked me to not only read scripture, but share some thoughts on service as it relates to their marriage. This is what I wrote and shared...
"Herb and Charissa have asked me to share with you some scripture and a bit about something very important to them, and that’s service. Service has always been very much a part of their lives individually, and now, something they hold dear as a couple.
When we think of typical wedding scripture, we might think of Genesis and its words on God setting up the institution so that Adam would have a helper. Or we think of the verses in Ecclesiastes that talk about two being better than one and the cord of three strands, husband, wife, and God. We think of Ephesians instructing a husband to leave his father and his mother and cleave to his wife. In Corinthians we get instructions on how to love. Herb and Charissa cherish these verses. But they know that you know them too, and want you to know they want their marriage to be far more than just these things.
Ephesians 2:10 says “For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Herb and Charissa know they are God’s workmanship, beautifully and wonderfully made, and that God has called them together to do good works as a team.
Herb and Charissa’s marriage will be a wonderful opportunity for them to fulfill God’s purposes for their lives, their calling to service, together. Together, as a couple they want to help fight poverty and injustice in this world. There’s so much, and God allows us to be part of the solution through sending us out. They are excited to see how God might use them together, to be his hands and feet in the world.
Service can mean a lot of things. We can be called to give of our time, our money, our possessions, our hearts, our talents or gifts. He’s equipped each of us with certain tools to serve, and he asks each of us to use those tools in various ways. Throughout their lives, Herb and Charissa will seek God to determine what he’s asking of them by way of service, moment by moment.
Whatever God asks, they want to respond generously. They know that God has given them so much and they want to use what they have been given to help a hurting world. Their thanks to God just overflows.
2 Corinthians 9:11 reads “You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us, your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.”
Even in the monetary ebbs and flows of life, we are always rich. Rich often simply means the blessings of love, such as you too, Herb and Charissa, have for each other. Generously sharing your love alone can make quite an impact in the world. We know it’s already made a lot of impact on all of us.
For those of us who believe Jesus as Lord, service should be an important attribute of all our lives. As we strive to be more like Jesus, we do as he modeled. Mark 10:45 says… “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Herb and Charissa believe that Jesus is God. He came to earth to save us. He came to earth to serve. If he can humble himself to make his primary focus serving others, shouldn’t we?
I can think of few other institutions in this world, as beautiful and powerful as marriage. And I can think of few better motivations in this world as wonderful, than the desire to wholeheartedly serve others. In this, Herb and Charissa, your marriage will be greatly blessed.
Herb and Charissa, I am honored that you asked me to share this part of your heart with all your family and friends. We will always cheer you on in your endeavors."
One of the neatest things about them them, is not only their commitment to each other, but to serving the world. I love how so many of my friends are completely sold out committed to fighting poverty and injustice in the world. I'm blow away how many are heading out on significant international projects in the next three months! Wild.
Anyway... all this in mind, Herb and Charissa asked me to not only read scripture, but share some thoughts on service as it relates to their marriage. This is what I wrote and shared...
"Herb and Charissa have asked me to share with you some scripture and a bit about something very important to them, and that’s service. Service has always been very much a part of their lives individually, and now, something they hold dear as a couple.
When we think of typical wedding scripture, we might think of Genesis and its words on God setting up the institution so that Adam would have a helper. Or we think of the verses in Ecclesiastes that talk about two being better than one and the cord of three strands, husband, wife, and God. We think of Ephesians instructing a husband to leave his father and his mother and cleave to his wife. In Corinthians we get instructions on how to love. Herb and Charissa cherish these verses. But they know that you know them too, and want you to know they want their marriage to be far more than just these things.
Ephesians 2:10 says “For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Herb and Charissa know they are God’s workmanship, beautifully and wonderfully made, and that God has called them together to do good works as a team.
Herb and Charissa’s marriage will be a wonderful opportunity for them to fulfill God’s purposes for their lives, their calling to service, together. Together, as a couple they want to help fight poverty and injustice in this world. There’s so much, and God allows us to be part of the solution through sending us out. They are excited to see how God might use them together, to be his hands and feet in the world.
Service can mean a lot of things. We can be called to give of our time, our money, our possessions, our hearts, our talents or gifts. He’s equipped each of us with certain tools to serve, and he asks each of us to use those tools in various ways. Throughout their lives, Herb and Charissa will seek God to determine what he’s asking of them by way of service, moment by moment.
Whatever God asks, they want to respond generously. They know that God has given them so much and they want to use what they have been given to help a hurting world. Their thanks to God just overflows.
2 Corinthians 9:11 reads “You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us, your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.”
Even in the monetary ebbs and flows of life, we are always rich. Rich often simply means the blessings of love, such as you too, Herb and Charissa, have for each other. Generously sharing your love alone can make quite an impact in the world. We know it’s already made a lot of impact on all of us.
For those of us who believe Jesus as Lord, service should be an important attribute of all our lives. As we strive to be more like Jesus, we do as he modeled. Mark 10:45 says… “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Herb and Charissa believe that Jesus is God. He came to earth to save us. He came to earth to serve. If he can humble himself to make his primary focus serving others, shouldn’t we?
I can think of few other institutions in this world, as beautiful and powerful as marriage. And I can think of few better motivations in this world as wonderful, than the desire to wholeheartedly serve others. In this, Herb and Charissa, your marriage will be greatly blessed.
Herb and Charissa, I am honored that you asked me to share this part of your heart with all your family and friends. We will always cheer you on in your endeavors."
Friday, July 4, 2008
Finding Joy by Knowing God
I woke this morning contemplating joy. Joy isn't about circumstance, which makes it quite different than happiness. The imagery of those praising God in spite of dire trials is fixed in my head.
“And of this gospel I was appointed a herald and an apostle and a teacher. That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet I am not ashamed, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him for that day.” 2 Timothy 1:11-12
God often allows his most faithful to be attacked, because he knows they will prove faithful, and in that, their witness will forward the kingdom in ways nothing else can. He knows that they know who he is and will stand firm in his name. Oh how that can bless believer and unbeliever alike!
“The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song.” Psalm 28:7
Sweet readers, like in scripture, the people I know sold out to Jesus fill every walk of life. Some are quite powerful , successful ,and brilliant. They are the world’s strong and yet they profess their hope, their core strength, is Jesus. Others are more timid, yet do great things in Jesus name, all to show that anyone can be used by God. We can all know God in deeper ways if we so choose and find joy and strength.
Do You Want to Know Him?
Your joy is only limited to your knowledge of God. Whether you’ve been a believer for 20 years or you aren’t sure you believe ANY of this, your ability to know God is only limited by your willingness.
“For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.” Romans 1:20
We’d see God all around us, if we’d open our eyes. But for those moments we’re blind, we have scripture. In scripture, he too reveals himself. Scripture is God’s words and that’s powerful!
“For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12
God has also revealed himself through his son (Luke 10:22). Yet, so many deny him yet today, being fooled of this world. Even those of us that know him, often find it convenient to ignore him. And we wonder why we don’t see truth? We question the lack of joy we experience?
Unveil Your Eyes
‘‘For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe.” 1 Corinthians 1:21
I was always an honors student. I have an Ivy-league education. I’m a darn good consultant. But who cares? If I rely on my own intellect, worldly philosophy, or psychology, I will be limited in seeing God through the manners and methods of man. But can man really capture God in all his essence?
“Where is the wise man? Where is the scholar? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe. Jews demand miraculous signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength.” 1 Corinthians 1:20-25
Earlier this week I wrote a challenge: invite God to reveal himself. What he has revealed to me is blowing my mind. I pray he’s likewise revealing to each of you. If he’s not, I worry as to if it’s a calloused heart. Bold of me to say, maybe even mean, but accurate as pertaining to scripture.
Isaiah 6:10, John 12: 39-40, and several others speak to this. The world has calloused our hearts, so that we can neither see with our eyes nor understand with our hearts. For if we understood we’d certainly turn to God. Again, this is certainly true of the unbeliever, but believers, beware. Though salvation is yours, your ability to experience joy, especially in time of trouble, may depend on understanding this.
What Holds Us Back?
In Exodus 33, Moses wanted to see God in all his glory. God allowed him to only see his back, because seeing all of him would be too much. No one can behold the full glory of the Lord and live.
I know there have been times that I’ve feared seeking the Lord, because his shining on me might reveal something ugly in my heart. A part of me may have to die, after such encounter. I may have to let go of preconceived notions, selfishness, old ways of thinking , bad habits I adore. How about you? Could this be holding you back? God doesn't demand change to come to him... ever. But in coming to him, everything changes. You can't help but change after really experiencing him.
We often are blind because we don't want to see. We hold back from wanting the truth (even when we profess we do) because of what that truth might mean. Some would say we see what we want to see. I also believe we can't see what we refuse to.
Coming Full Circle
I don’t like my writing to be as a rant. Somehow though I risk this is, yet it just might be because it’s that important. There are terribly hard things that will come our way in this world. There are terribly painful things that will fall on those we love. If you want to be able to stand and praise, no matter what happens, you better know your God. Someone may need you to stand and praise with them, and you better be ready, with no doubt, no fear. I know the one who calls my name. Do you? Are you ready?
Father God, we let joy allude us because we don’t know you. We don’t trust your ways, your character, so we’re tossed like shifting waves. Remove the scales from our eyes today. Show us your glory and let it impact us. We want truth. We want your strength. And we want to be part of your hope for a lost world. AMEN
“And of this gospel I was appointed a herald and an apostle and a teacher. That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet I am not ashamed, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him for that day.” 2 Timothy 1:11-12
God often allows his most faithful to be attacked, because he knows they will prove faithful, and in that, their witness will forward the kingdom in ways nothing else can. He knows that they know who he is and will stand firm in his name. Oh how that can bless believer and unbeliever alike!
“The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song.” Psalm 28:7
Sweet readers, like in scripture, the people I know sold out to Jesus fill every walk of life. Some are quite powerful , successful ,and brilliant. They are the world’s strong and yet they profess their hope, their core strength, is Jesus. Others are more timid, yet do great things in Jesus name, all to show that anyone can be used by God. We can all know God in deeper ways if we so choose and find joy and strength.
Do You Want to Know Him?
Your joy is only limited to your knowledge of God. Whether you’ve been a believer for 20 years or you aren’t sure you believe ANY of this, your ability to know God is only limited by your willingness.
“For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.” Romans 1:20
We’d see God all around us, if we’d open our eyes. But for those moments we’re blind, we have scripture. In scripture, he too reveals himself. Scripture is God’s words and that’s powerful!
“For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12
God has also revealed himself through his son (Luke 10:22). Yet, so many deny him yet today, being fooled of this world. Even those of us that know him, often find it convenient to ignore him. And we wonder why we don’t see truth? We question the lack of joy we experience?
Unveil Your Eyes
‘‘For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe.” 1 Corinthians 1:21
I was always an honors student. I have an Ivy-league education. I’m a darn good consultant. But who cares? If I rely on my own intellect, worldly philosophy, or psychology, I will be limited in seeing God through the manners and methods of man. But can man really capture God in all his essence?
“Where is the wise man? Where is the scholar? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe. Jews demand miraculous signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength.” 1 Corinthians 1:20-25
Earlier this week I wrote a challenge: invite God to reveal himself. What he has revealed to me is blowing my mind. I pray he’s likewise revealing to each of you. If he’s not, I worry as to if it’s a calloused heart. Bold of me to say, maybe even mean, but accurate as pertaining to scripture.
Isaiah 6:10, John 12: 39-40, and several others speak to this. The world has calloused our hearts, so that we can neither see with our eyes nor understand with our hearts. For if we understood we’d certainly turn to God. Again, this is certainly true of the unbeliever, but believers, beware. Though salvation is yours, your ability to experience joy, especially in time of trouble, may depend on understanding this.
What Holds Us Back?
In Exodus 33, Moses wanted to see God in all his glory. God allowed him to only see his back, because seeing all of him would be too much. No one can behold the full glory of the Lord and live.
I know there have been times that I’ve feared seeking the Lord, because his shining on me might reveal something ugly in my heart. A part of me may have to die, after such encounter. I may have to let go of preconceived notions, selfishness, old ways of thinking , bad habits I adore. How about you? Could this be holding you back? God doesn't demand change to come to him... ever. But in coming to him, everything changes. You can't help but change after really experiencing him.
We often are blind because we don't want to see. We hold back from wanting the truth (even when we profess we do) because of what that truth might mean. Some would say we see what we want to see. I also believe we can't see what we refuse to.
Coming Full Circle
I don’t like my writing to be as a rant. Somehow though I risk this is, yet it just might be because it’s that important. There are terribly hard things that will come our way in this world. There are terribly painful things that will fall on those we love. If you want to be able to stand and praise, no matter what happens, you better know your God. Someone may need you to stand and praise with them, and you better be ready, with no doubt, no fear. I know the one who calls my name. Do you? Are you ready?
Father God, we let joy allude us because we don’t know you. We don’t trust your ways, your character, so we’re tossed like shifting waves. Remove the scales from our eyes today. Show us your glory and let it impact us. We want truth. We want your strength. And we want to be part of your hope for a lost world. AMEN
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Will You Believe?
(this one's a long one, but i hope you'll find it worth it!)
Mmmm... How I love Wimbledon. I miss it and wish I were there now. Last year a friend and I went. We arrived with no tickets but queued up and hoped for the best. They ran out of wrist bands just in front of us. We were so disappointed.
Feeling we had nothing to lose, we began to pray. Seems silly to pray for tickets, but what the heck? Then, we just decided to believe. We knew we would get tickets to exactly the court we wanted (Court 2).
We were almost surprised when we arrived at the ticket counter and they told us there was nothing left. So surprised, that I kept asking if she was sure (much to her annoyance). We really believed God would deliver those tickets!
I believe God is real, creator and sovereign over the universe.
Jesus: "And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it." John 14:13-24
Just then a man entered the booth with “obstructed view” tickets for Court 2 and asked if we wanted two. We jumped with glee, grabbed the tickets, and head out to seats that were in no way obstructed. We'd believed God and he delivered.
Being Diligent In Prayer
Yes, this is somewhat of a silly story with all there is to pray for. But apparently, this prayer was within God's will because he answered it. We’d later find the reason to be the HUGE lesson he wanted to teach us. God loves to use the things we love, to make us mature and complete.
For the remainder of the summer, and fall, and winter, and now... I'd deal with various struggles. I'd look to God in prayer, but sometimes was filled with doubt as to if he was even listening. God doesn't like it when I doubt. :) Time and again I'd hear, "Remember the Wimbledon tickets? If I listened then and delivered something so inconsequential, do you really think I'd fail to show up when its really important? Don't you realize how I love you?!"
I believe God loves us more than we can comprehend and longs for us to speak our hearts to him.
"Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall." Psalm 55:24
Sporting tickets, parking spots, they're all little. Even how to deal with a coworker, or a significant other, or other responsibilities, they're all manageable. Once in a while though, we face trials so overwhelming, we can't imagine how God will fix it. All the odds seem against the outcome we desire. And yet he wants us to believe, remember his character, remember his power, and keep hoping.
"Lord! Help me overcome my unbelief!" Mark 9:24
"Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him." Romans 4:18
"I tell you the truth, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete." John 16:23-24
God is especially pleased when we praise and pray together. Beyond all we're asking, it grows and binds us, as people, as family.
"Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them." Matthew 18:19-20
When life is painful, God wants us to BOLDLY come to him. He, in all his splendor and power and might, allows little ol' us into his throne room to ask. He wants us to sit at his feet and believe the impossible. How great is our God who is personal enough to allow us to speak to him and present requests!
I believe God can perform even miracles if he so chooses.
The miracles of the bible are endless. The old and barren had children. Circumstances changed. Kingdoms were conquered with small stones, shouts, and prayers. The sick were healed. The death brought back to life!
Many will say that miracles today have ceased. I don’t agree. I think God is bigger than we can imagine. Miracles may not be normative, but my friends, BELIEVE and see what God might do, just to strut his stuff because you had faith!
Think about who you’re calling on!
I lift up my eyes to the hills—
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the LORD,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;
Psalm 121:1-3
Hezekiah was given 15 more years (2 Kings 20) because he called on God, reminding God of his wholehearted devotion. He actually believed and changed God’s mind! Jacob wrestled with God until he got his blessing (Genesis 32).
"The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise him, my father's God, and I will exalt him." Exodus 15:2
Moses says this right after God parted the Red Sea. Moses couldn't see a way out, but God performed a miracle!
What will you ask for?
Standing Firm in Unanswered Prayer
What happens though, when God doesn't deliver your miracle? How will you react? Will you still love him? Will you still trust him?
I've seen people go through some pretty painful things, as prayers were left unanswered. Some people have impressed me though. When all the world fell apart, when things were taken away, loved one’s destroyed, I’d watch them, hands held high and thanking God for just being him! What a witness!
I believe God is good and trusthworthy, even when we don't get our way. I believe he has a higher plan for our suffering.
The mark of a true disciple, of true devotion to God, is the ability to pray your little heart out, but at the end of the day, surrender and trust. We humbly realize he knows more than us and if he doesn't answer our heart's cry, its because he has a better plan. He's going to do even greater things through going another way. He will be more glorified and we will be more blessed. He's not trying to spite us; he loves us far too much to allow pain for no good purpose. Silly people, if you think otherwise, that's just the enemy messin' with your head. Tell him to go away and remember the truth of who God is. Your God is mighty to save and he loves you!
(Do you know who God is? Have you forgotten? Get in the bible and read John, Genesis and Psalms. You'll remember... or if you don't know... you'll learn.)
Can you still praise him in the tough times? We must! How can we ask good things of God and yet not be ok when he has to do what he knows is right, knowing the bigger picture?
Job’s wife said he should curse God. Job said “No way!” (paraphrased)
Habakkuk wrote this when God told him he'd have to allow Israel into Babylonian captivity to fulfill a long term plan:
"Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior." Habakkuk 3:17-18
No matter your circumstance, how will you relate to God today? I’m going to hope all hopes, pray all prayers, but above all, praise his name, no matter what. You in?
Father God, I praise you with all my soul. As scripture says, my heart longs, even faints for you. You are mighty! You are faithful! You are perfect. You love us for no reason at all and overflow blessings to us we don’t deserve. You are full of mercy and grace. You are our protector, our guide. I’ll sing of you in the morning and the night. None is like you. God, in difficult times, help us to pray hard… and praise hard, no matter what you deliver. You are good. Your ways are right. Your Word powerful. May I prove as faithful as you. AMEN.
Mmmm... How I love Wimbledon. I miss it and wish I were there now. Last year a friend and I went. We arrived with no tickets but queued up and hoped for the best. They ran out of wrist bands just in front of us. We were so disappointed.
Feeling we had nothing to lose, we began to pray. Seems silly to pray for tickets, but what the heck? Then, we just decided to believe. We knew we would get tickets to exactly the court we wanted (Court 2).
We were almost surprised when we arrived at the ticket counter and they told us there was nothing left. So surprised, that I kept asking if she was sure (much to her annoyance). We really believed God would deliver those tickets!
I believe God is real, creator and sovereign over the universe.
Jesus: "And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it." John 14:13-24
Just then a man entered the booth with “obstructed view” tickets for Court 2 and asked if we wanted two. We jumped with glee, grabbed the tickets, and head out to seats that were in no way obstructed. We'd believed God and he delivered.
Being Diligent In Prayer
Yes, this is somewhat of a silly story with all there is to pray for. But apparently, this prayer was within God's will because he answered it. We’d later find the reason to be the HUGE lesson he wanted to teach us. God loves to use the things we love, to make us mature and complete.
For the remainder of the summer, and fall, and winter, and now... I'd deal with various struggles. I'd look to God in prayer, but sometimes was filled with doubt as to if he was even listening. God doesn't like it when I doubt. :) Time and again I'd hear, "Remember the Wimbledon tickets? If I listened then and delivered something so inconsequential, do you really think I'd fail to show up when its really important? Don't you realize how I love you?!"
I believe God loves us more than we can comprehend and longs for us to speak our hearts to him.
"Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall." Psalm 55:24
Sporting tickets, parking spots, they're all little. Even how to deal with a coworker, or a significant other, or other responsibilities, they're all manageable. Once in a while though, we face trials so overwhelming, we can't imagine how God will fix it. All the odds seem against the outcome we desire. And yet he wants us to believe, remember his character, remember his power, and keep hoping.
"Lord! Help me overcome my unbelief!" Mark 9:24
"Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him." Romans 4:18
"I tell you the truth, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete." John 16:23-24
God is especially pleased when we praise and pray together. Beyond all we're asking, it grows and binds us, as people, as family.
"Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them." Matthew 18:19-20
When life is painful, God wants us to BOLDLY come to him. He, in all his splendor and power and might, allows little ol' us into his throne room to ask. He wants us to sit at his feet and believe the impossible. How great is our God who is personal enough to allow us to speak to him and present requests!
I believe God can perform even miracles if he so chooses.
The miracles of the bible are endless. The old and barren had children. Circumstances changed. Kingdoms were conquered with small stones, shouts, and prayers. The sick were healed. The death brought back to life!
Many will say that miracles today have ceased. I don’t agree. I think God is bigger than we can imagine. Miracles may not be normative, but my friends, BELIEVE and see what God might do, just to strut his stuff because you had faith!
Think about who you’re calling on!
I lift up my eyes to the hills—
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the LORD,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;
Psalm 121:1-3
Hezekiah was given 15 more years (2 Kings 20) because he called on God, reminding God of his wholehearted devotion. He actually believed and changed God’s mind! Jacob wrestled with God until he got his blessing (Genesis 32).
"The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation. He is my God, and I will praise him, my father's God, and I will exalt him." Exodus 15:2
Moses says this right after God parted the Red Sea. Moses couldn't see a way out, but God performed a miracle!
What will you ask for?
Standing Firm in Unanswered Prayer
What happens though, when God doesn't deliver your miracle? How will you react? Will you still love him? Will you still trust him?
I've seen people go through some pretty painful things, as prayers were left unanswered. Some people have impressed me though. When all the world fell apart, when things were taken away, loved one’s destroyed, I’d watch them, hands held high and thanking God for just being him! What a witness!
I believe God is good and trusthworthy, even when we don't get our way. I believe he has a higher plan for our suffering.
The mark of a true disciple, of true devotion to God, is the ability to pray your little heart out, but at the end of the day, surrender and trust. We humbly realize he knows more than us and if he doesn't answer our heart's cry, its because he has a better plan. He's going to do even greater things through going another way. He will be more glorified and we will be more blessed. He's not trying to spite us; he loves us far too much to allow pain for no good purpose. Silly people, if you think otherwise, that's just the enemy messin' with your head. Tell him to go away and remember the truth of who God is. Your God is mighty to save and he loves you!
(Do you know who God is? Have you forgotten? Get in the bible and read John, Genesis and Psalms. You'll remember... or if you don't know... you'll learn.)
Can you still praise him in the tough times? We must! How can we ask good things of God and yet not be ok when he has to do what he knows is right, knowing the bigger picture?
Job’s wife said he should curse God. Job said “No way!” (paraphrased)
Habakkuk wrote this when God told him he'd have to allow Israel into Babylonian captivity to fulfill a long term plan:
"Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior." Habakkuk 3:17-18
No matter your circumstance, how will you relate to God today? I’m going to hope all hopes, pray all prayers, but above all, praise his name, no matter what. You in?
Father God, I praise you with all my soul. As scripture says, my heart longs, even faints for you. You are mighty! You are faithful! You are perfect. You love us for no reason at all and overflow blessings to us we don’t deserve. You are full of mercy and grace. You are our protector, our guide. I’ll sing of you in the morning and the night. None is like you. God, in difficult times, help us to pray hard… and praise hard, no matter what you deliver. You are good. Your ways are right. Your Word powerful. May I prove as faithful as you. AMEN.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Are You Listening?
I love themes. I love to learn through themes. The world is full of opinions and thoughts, ideas, and there's a lot to digest. But I find when we see similar themes exposed through various interactions and circumstances in life, those we need to pay attention to. Maybe I'm just simple. :)
I love when God uses a lot of different people saying the same thing to make himself clear. He may bring a friend, a co worker, even someone who doesn't know him the same as you... he may take a pastor's message, a scripture verse, a song... and wrap it all up in one theme. Its a message from him.
When I feel a little spiritually ADD, I find the best thing is to simply put myself in a position to receive a lot of inputs... such as the above. My brain seems to process these inputs into those themes I can digest.
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; 8he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does." James 1:2-8
This is this weeks theme. With so much on my mind, everything, everyone, if just pointing me to ask God what he thinks, to ask for his help. So simple... but is this something we often simply forget to do? Sometimes. We crave answers and try to figure everything out. Yet, God is just waiting for the simple words "explain this to me" or "what should i do?" or "will you help me?".
I statused yesterday on Facebook that I felt confused in 12 directions on at least 3 different issues. Oh how sweet this morning has been to get some clarity by looking at the themes of inputs from the last 24 hours(though I'm quite late for work!).
These were the answers I heard:
1) Had to do with my writing and the future of it. The answer: Just write. Don't think about tomorrow. Don't worry. Just keep doing what you've been doing and let the future unfold any way it may. Both w/writing and the new job.
2) Confidential. The answer: Pray and trust me (God). Praise me (God) in spite of anything that happens. Remember you don't have the whole picture and I am huge and am going to do amazing things, even if it seems hard and not look like you hope. Do not lose hope and don't give up on me. Remember I am God.
3) Confidential. The answer: Step back, pray, and trust me (God). Know that I have a plan and you don't need to figure it out. You don't need the answers today. Keep your eyes fixed on me. Don't move too fast towards or away from anything or anyone. Live in the day to day with all and enjoy. I'll unfold the right thing at the right time and you will be amazed and pleased.
I don't know the pangs on your heart today, but I have the feeling that for some of them, the same answers above apply to you. Whether a career challenge, a trial, a heart cry, any number of issues, the themes are clear.
Will you ask these questions today? Will you put yourself in a posture to receive lots of information so God might reveal a theme? I pray you will.
I love when God uses a lot of different people saying the same thing to make himself clear. He may bring a friend, a co worker, even someone who doesn't know him the same as you... he may take a pastor's message, a scripture verse, a song... and wrap it all up in one theme. Its a message from him.
When I feel a little spiritually ADD, I find the best thing is to simply put myself in a position to receive a lot of inputs... such as the above. My brain seems to process these inputs into those themes I can digest.
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; 8he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does." James 1:2-8
This is this weeks theme. With so much on my mind, everything, everyone, if just pointing me to ask God what he thinks, to ask for his help. So simple... but is this something we often simply forget to do? Sometimes. We crave answers and try to figure everything out. Yet, God is just waiting for the simple words "explain this to me" or "what should i do?" or "will you help me?".
I statused yesterday on Facebook that I felt confused in 12 directions on at least 3 different issues. Oh how sweet this morning has been to get some clarity by looking at the themes of inputs from the last 24 hours(though I'm quite late for work!).
These were the answers I heard:
1) Had to do with my writing and the future of it. The answer: Just write. Don't think about tomorrow. Don't worry. Just keep doing what you've been doing and let the future unfold any way it may. Both w/writing and the new job.
2) Confidential. The answer: Pray and trust me (God). Praise me (God) in spite of anything that happens. Remember you don't have the whole picture and I am huge and am going to do amazing things, even if it seems hard and not look like you hope. Do not lose hope and don't give up on me. Remember I am God.
3) Confidential. The answer: Step back, pray, and trust me (God). Know that I have a plan and you don't need to figure it out. You don't need the answers today. Keep your eyes fixed on me. Don't move too fast towards or away from anything or anyone. Live in the day to day with all and enjoy. I'll unfold the right thing at the right time and you will be amazed and pleased.
I don't know the pangs on your heart today, but I have the feeling that for some of them, the same answers above apply to you. Whether a career challenge, a trial, a heart cry, any number of issues, the themes are clear.
Will you ask these questions today? Will you put yourself in a posture to receive lots of information so God might reveal a theme? I pray you will.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Will You Dare Five Minutes to Know God and Yourself Better?
The last two weeks have be a whirlwind of new information and emotion. I find the need to simplify to process it all or I fear I’ll run from God overwhelmed.
My housemate and I were speaking yesterday on perceptions of God. We discussed how different people view God and how that shapes their understanding of life. Can all these perceptions be at least partially true? Might there at least be a few different slants to consider?
I’m certain you have people in your life that you love so dearly but who just see God differently than you. It’s not that you want to change them, b/c they wouldn’t be so precious to you if you didn’t already love them for who they are. But for those of you who truly believe the truth of Christ, you long for them to see God as you do. You want them to know this friend, this Lord of your life with whom you are so in love and whose love you feel with such realism.
Jessica expressed, “If only those people would spend five minutes a day for a month asking God to reveal himself as he chooses, he’d rock their world. God always answers those prayers.”
That would indeed be a powerful thing. If you are reading this and you do not know Jesus in a personal way and are even the slightest bit curious, it would be an interesting exercise. Even if through our friendship, it’s just in trying to understand me better, what an experience it could be to invite God in, five minutes a day for a month, and see how he might reveal himself. Open your hearts and let him show you whatever he chooses.
Then it occurred to me though. Am I so wise that I fully understand all there is about God? I too must be willing to undergo the same exercise. What might God reveal to me about himself over the next month?
Those of you believers have come to understand him through scripture, which is the right way to learn about him. But are you allowing the Holy Spirit to have its way with you and show you amazing and unsearchable things? Maybe the unbelieving world still has a bit to teach us on how big God can be if we’re willing to open our minds. I know we do this subtly, but have we ceased to be intentional in asking him to show us the truth of himself? Are you still asking God each day to reveal who he is so we might understand to the best of our ability?
Already this exercise in my life has revealed some truth. I began this blog confessing that I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed due to several circumstances of current life. I feel so overwhelmed that routine devotionals or bible study just cause my head to swim. And yet, in asking God this simple question, he began to reveal himself. He reminded me that he’s given me many gifts and I do have choices. A friend was right in telling me something similar this week. Yes, I must remember God as sovereign and Lord, but sometimes he wants us to use what he’s already given us to move forward at our choosing. We agonize over if we’re doing the “right thing” and “within his will” but he may just be whispering “child, stop stressing and just do SOMETHING”. He also reminded me that he is my Abba, my father, who has a great plan for me in all areas of my life and I don’t need to be worried or sad. All things work out as they’re supposed to and if that’s true… there’s no need for such things.
This blog contains no scripture (unlike my others), just thoughts. But that’s kind of the point. Scripture is VERY important but also is simply prayer. The creator of the universe wants to talk to you!
Will you, believer or non-believer alike, try a month of five minutes and see what God may do? I dare you!
My housemate and I were speaking yesterday on perceptions of God. We discussed how different people view God and how that shapes their understanding of life. Can all these perceptions be at least partially true? Might there at least be a few different slants to consider?
I’m certain you have people in your life that you love so dearly but who just see God differently than you. It’s not that you want to change them, b/c they wouldn’t be so precious to you if you didn’t already love them for who they are. But for those of you who truly believe the truth of Christ, you long for them to see God as you do. You want them to know this friend, this Lord of your life with whom you are so in love and whose love you feel with such realism.
Jessica expressed, “If only those people would spend five minutes a day for a month asking God to reveal himself as he chooses, he’d rock their world. God always answers those prayers.”
That would indeed be a powerful thing. If you are reading this and you do not know Jesus in a personal way and are even the slightest bit curious, it would be an interesting exercise. Even if through our friendship, it’s just in trying to understand me better, what an experience it could be to invite God in, five minutes a day for a month, and see how he might reveal himself. Open your hearts and let him show you whatever he chooses.
Then it occurred to me though. Am I so wise that I fully understand all there is about God? I too must be willing to undergo the same exercise. What might God reveal to me about himself over the next month?
Those of you believers have come to understand him through scripture, which is the right way to learn about him. But are you allowing the Holy Spirit to have its way with you and show you amazing and unsearchable things? Maybe the unbelieving world still has a bit to teach us on how big God can be if we’re willing to open our minds. I know we do this subtly, but have we ceased to be intentional in asking him to show us the truth of himself? Are you still asking God each day to reveal who he is so we might understand to the best of our ability?
Already this exercise in my life has revealed some truth. I began this blog confessing that I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed due to several circumstances of current life. I feel so overwhelmed that routine devotionals or bible study just cause my head to swim. And yet, in asking God this simple question, he began to reveal himself. He reminded me that he’s given me many gifts and I do have choices. A friend was right in telling me something similar this week. Yes, I must remember God as sovereign and Lord, but sometimes he wants us to use what he’s already given us to move forward at our choosing. We agonize over if we’re doing the “right thing” and “within his will” but he may just be whispering “child, stop stressing and just do SOMETHING”. He also reminded me that he is my Abba, my father, who has a great plan for me in all areas of my life and I don’t need to be worried or sad. All things work out as they’re supposed to and if that’s true… there’s no need for such things.
This blog contains no scripture (unlike my others), just thoughts. But that’s kind of the point. Scripture is VERY important but also is simply prayer. The creator of the universe wants to talk to you!
Will you, believer or non-believer alike, try a month of five minutes and see what God may do? I dare you!
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Forgiving Ourselves, Pt 2 (Forgiving My Sins)
In my last blog, I talked about forgiving ourselves in regard to mistakes. I’d like to pick up talking about something far more sensitive – forgiving ourselves when we’ve fallen into blatant sin.
When I began to write on forgiving ourselves about a month ago, I struggled on what I would say on this topic. By God’s grace, though we all sin, I had nothing recent of which I was ashamed. Oh how quickly we can fall! I hope to walk you through this by being a bit vulnerable myself.
All Have Sinned and Fall Short (Romans 3:22-23)
Though we don’t like to acknowledge it, sin is real. There is such a thing as right and wrong. On many matters, God is very clear; there is no gray. Bad behavior, or sin, is everywhere and the consequences are obvious in our homes, our work, all over our society. It is sin that breaks up relationships. It is sin that causes pain. But it is sin from which Jesus died to free us.
I was shocked by how quickly hurt and longing can cause us to fall to our own depravity. Our flesh is so weak. We don’t necessarily set out to sin. I think we sin because we don’t believe God and we think something good, fun, pleasurable, is being held back from us. Or in pain or frustration, we lash out, in anger, or to numb. Maybe God even let’s us fall some times, so we remember that we are vulnerable and have to stand on guard. Just when we think we have it all sorted, the enemy attacks. He knows our soft spots and will push on them viciously. We always have a choice; God always has a way out. But when caught unprepared, we too often succumb.
Three weeks ago, I fell. Some of you might see what happened as no big deal. Others would be surprised. Regardless, I know I grieved my Heavenly Father in the choices I made, the things I said and did. The enemy found a big weak spot and attacked. I’m not sure I even tried that hard to resist. I feel like a hypocrite, defaming my witness and maybe even hurting others. I felt ashamed and brutally beat myself up for days.
Seeking Forgiveness (Repentance)
Thing is, I asked for forgiveness within hours, and as the Lord promises to forgive any who ask, I know he forgave me then. It took far longer to forgive myself for being so stupid. I realized this too is of the enemy. He wanted me to feel ashamed and in that, hide from God. He wanted me to feel unworthy of God’s love and grace, and ill suited for the ministry I was to serve in that weekend. So often the enemy tricks us into viewing what we’ve done as unforgivable and the consequences beyond repair. That’s so not true.
The beauty of God’s grace is that he loves us and wants a relationship with us, no matter how small or big or ugly our transgressions have been. There is nothing we could ever do beyond his forgiveness, because he’s so desperate to keep us close. We just have to ask.
God called David a man after his own heart, and yet, he had weaknesses. In 2 Samuel 12, David not only committed adultery, but had the woman’s husband killed to cover it up. He tried to convince himself it was no big deal, but at Nathan’s confrontation, he realized how truly wrong he had been.
In Psalm 51 he writes: “Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so that you are proved right when you speak and justified when you judge…”
God forgave David. He restored him and in fact, continued his lineage through this relationship, all the way to Jesus. God promises to forgive us too, if we ask. He won’t even remember them!
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” 1John 1:9
"For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more." Jeremiah 31:34b; Hebrews 8:12
There is only one condition; we have to repent honestly. Jesus, in John 8, clearly says to the woman caught in adultery: “Go and sin no more.”
Repentance is to truly turn from our sin and do all we can to flee it in the future. If we jump right back in, it’s like we’re spitting in God’s face. The Apostle Paul writes in Romans 6:1: “What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase?” NO! Paul explicitly told the Romans, that they should not take advantage of God, thinking they can continue to sin, so they might experience more grace.
God’s Restoration (Reconciliation)
A “holy sorrow” is grieving our sins so that we learn and don’t act out again. It’s like protection. If you burn your hand, you won’t place it so quickly on the stove again. But shame is not what God wants us to experience. I’m thankful he’s teaching me this, because I believe many of you need to hear this. God loves you, no matter what you’ve done. You are not out of his grasp.
Unfortunately, there may be significant consequences of our sin. Abraham impregnated his wife’s maidservant, being impatient with God. Those descendants to this day are the people who rise up against Israel. Though pregnancy is an easy example, the same is true for far more than sexual sin. Our sin can do a lot of damage. And yet, God is the author of second chances and is well known for rising up beauty from ashes. So many stories could I tell of dear friends who’ve suffered grave initial consequences of sin, yet today, are blown away by God’s love and graciousness. He’s brought blessing out of it. God can redeem anything.
I often identify closely with the Apostle Peter. He loved the Lord so much, yet consistently said and did all sorts of silly things. He was passionate and yet a bit naïve. And then, when given the ultimate test of his loyalty, denied Jesus three times. Each time we sin, it’s like we’re denying Jesus – who he is and what he did for us.
Like he did with Peter though, Jesus is eager to restore and help us move forward. In John 21, after the resurrection, Jesus appears on the shore while the disciples are fishing. Peter is so excited to see him he jumps out of the boat and swims to land. They cook breakfast and Jesus asks Peter three times if he loves him. Each time Peter responds yes. Jesus cancelled out his transgressions and moved forward still trusting Peter with a great task, to build the church. Peter goes on to do this and because an amazing writer and evangelist. His sin was merely a temporary set-back that once he repented, he learned from and moved on.
We have to forgive ourselves, let go of the shame, and let God love us again. We must ask him for his comfort and healing. We must discover what in us made us sin in the first place, so we can cut it off at the pass the next time around. By understanding our own weaknesses, wants, and sensitivities, we can protect ourselves against many future failings. We move forward. God can still use us, even in mighty ways, if we return to his sovereignty.
One last mention though before I close. There are some temptations, some sin struggles, so great that we cannot conquer them alone. Many of these begin to form additions that will consume us if we don’t get help. If you feel you are falling into the same sin over and over again, confess to a trustworthy friend and seek assistance. Don’t get stuck in shame.
Psalm 103:11-13 reads as follows: “For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him;” What a beautiful reminder and promise!
That said, as my closing prayer, I’d like to finish with a song by Casting Crowns:
Here I am Lord and I'm drowning
In your sea of forgetfulness
The chains of yesterday surround me
I yearn for peace and rest
I don't want to end up where you found me
And it echoes in my mind
Keeps me awake tonight
I know you've cast my sins as far
As the East is from the West
And I stand before you now as
As though I've never sinned but today
I feel like I'm just one mistake away
From you leaving me this way
Refrain:
Jesus can you show me
Just how far the East is from the West
Cause I can't bear to see the man I've been
Come rising up in me again
In the arms of your mercy I find rest
Cause you know just how far the East is from the West
From one scarred hand to the other
I start the day the war begins
Endless reminding of my sin
Time and time again
Your truth Is drowned out by the storm I'm in
Today I feel like I'm just one mistake away
From you leaving me this way
Refrain
I know you've washed me white
Turned my darkness into light
I need your peace to get me through
To get me through this night
I can't live by what I feel
But by the truth your word reveals
I'm not holding on to you
But your holding on to me
Your holding on to me
Jesus, you know just how far
The East is from the West
I don't have to see the man I've been
Rising up in me again
In the arms of your mercy I find rest
Cause you know just how far the East is from the West
From one scarred hand to the other
When I began to write on forgiving ourselves about a month ago, I struggled on what I would say on this topic. By God’s grace, though we all sin, I had nothing recent of which I was ashamed. Oh how quickly we can fall! I hope to walk you through this by being a bit vulnerable myself.
All Have Sinned and Fall Short (Romans 3:22-23)
Though we don’t like to acknowledge it, sin is real. There is such a thing as right and wrong. On many matters, God is very clear; there is no gray. Bad behavior, or sin, is everywhere and the consequences are obvious in our homes, our work, all over our society. It is sin that breaks up relationships. It is sin that causes pain. But it is sin from which Jesus died to free us.
I was shocked by how quickly hurt and longing can cause us to fall to our own depravity. Our flesh is so weak. We don’t necessarily set out to sin. I think we sin because we don’t believe God and we think something good, fun, pleasurable, is being held back from us. Or in pain or frustration, we lash out, in anger, or to numb. Maybe God even let’s us fall some times, so we remember that we are vulnerable and have to stand on guard. Just when we think we have it all sorted, the enemy attacks. He knows our soft spots and will push on them viciously. We always have a choice; God always has a way out. But when caught unprepared, we too often succumb.
Three weeks ago, I fell. Some of you might see what happened as no big deal. Others would be surprised. Regardless, I know I grieved my Heavenly Father in the choices I made, the things I said and did. The enemy found a big weak spot and attacked. I’m not sure I even tried that hard to resist. I feel like a hypocrite, defaming my witness and maybe even hurting others. I felt ashamed and brutally beat myself up for days.
Seeking Forgiveness (Repentance)
Thing is, I asked for forgiveness within hours, and as the Lord promises to forgive any who ask, I know he forgave me then. It took far longer to forgive myself for being so stupid. I realized this too is of the enemy. He wanted me to feel ashamed and in that, hide from God. He wanted me to feel unworthy of God’s love and grace, and ill suited for the ministry I was to serve in that weekend. So often the enemy tricks us into viewing what we’ve done as unforgivable and the consequences beyond repair. That’s so not true.
The beauty of God’s grace is that he loves us and wants a relationship with us, no matter how small or big or ugly our transgressions have been. There is nothing we could ever do beyond his forgiveness, because he’s so desperate to keep us close. We just have to ask.
God called David a man after his own heart, and yet, he had weaknesses. In 2 Samuel 12, David not only committed adultery, but had the woman’s husband killed to cover it up. He tried to convince himself it was no big deal, but at Nathan’s confrontation, he realized how truly wrong he had been.
In Psalm 51 he writes: “Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so that you are proved right when you speak and justified when you judge…”
God forgave David. He restored him and in fact, continued his lineage through this relationship, all the way to Jesus. God promises to forgive us too, if we ask. He won’t even remember them!
“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” 1John 1:9
"For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more." Jeremiah 31:34b; Hebrews 8:12
There is only one condition; we have to repent honestly. Jesus, in John 8, clearly says to the woman caught in adultery: “Go and sin no more.”
Repentance is to truly turn from our sin and do all we can to flee it in the future. If we jump right back in, it’s like we’re spitting in God’s face. The Apostle Paul writes in Romans 6:1: “What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase?” NO! Paul explicitly told the Romans, that they should not take advantage of God, thinking they can continue to sin, so they might experience more grace.
God’s Restoration (Reconciliation)
A “holy sorrow” is grieving our sins so that we learn and don’t act out again. It’s like protection. If you burn your hand, you won’t place it so quickly on the stove again. But shame is not what God wants us to experience. I’m thankful he’s teaching me this, because I believe many of you need to hear this. God loves you, no matter what you’ve done. You are not out of his grasp.
Unfortunately, there may be significant consequences of our sin. Abraham impregnated his wife’s maidservant, being impatient with God. Those descendants to this day are the people who rise up against Israel. Though pregnancy is an easy example, the same is true for far more than sexual sin. Our sin can do a lot of damage. And yet, God is the author of second chances and is well known for rising up beauty from ashes. So many stories could I tell of dear friends who’ve suffered grave initial consequences of sin, yet today, are blown away by God’s love and graciousness. He’s brought blessing out of it. God can redeem anything.
I often identify closely with the Apostle Peter. He loved the Lord so much, yet consistently said and did all sorts of silly things. He was passionate and yet a bit naïve. And then, when given the ultimate test of his loyalty, denied Jesus three times. Each time we sin, it’s like we’re denying Jesus – who he is and what he did for us.
Like he did with Peter though, Jesus is eager to restore and help us move forward. In John 21, after the resurrection, Jesus appears on the shore while the disciples are fishing. Peter is so excited to see him he jumps out of the boat and swims to land. They cook breakfast and Jesus asks Peter three times if he loves him. Each time Peter responds yes. Jesus cancelled out his transgressions and moved forward still trusting Peter with a great task, to build the church. Peter goes on to do this and because an amazing writer and evangelist. His sin was merely a temporary set-back that once he repented, he learned from and moved on.
We have to forgive ourselves, let go of the shame, and let God love us again. We must ask him for his comfort and healing. We must discover what in us made us sin in the first place, so we can cut it off at the pass the next time around. By understanding our own weaknesses, wants, and sensitivities, we can protect ourselves against many future failings. We move forward. God can still use us, even in mighty ways, if we return to his sovereignty.
One last mention though before I close. There are some temptations, some sin struggles, so great that we cannot conquer them alone. Many of these begin to form additions that will consume us if we don’t get help. If you feel you are falling into the same sin over and over again, confess to a trustworthy friend and seek assistance. Don’t get stuck in shame.
Psalm 103:11-13 reads as follows: “For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him;” What a beautiful reminder and promise!
That said, as my closing prayer, I’d like to finish with a song by Casting Crowns:
Here I am Lord and I'm drowning
In your sea of forgetfulness
The chains of yesterday surround me
I yearn for peace and rest
I don't want to end up where you found me
And it echoes in my mind
Keeps me awake tonight
I know you've cast my sins as far
As the East is from the West
And I stand before you now as
As though I've never sinned but today
I feel like I'm just one mistake away
From you leaving me this way
Refrain:
Jesus can you show me
Just how far the East is from the West
Cause I can't bear to see the man I've been
Come rising up in me again
In the arms of your mercy I find rest
Cause you know just how far the East is from the West
From one scarred hand to the other
I start the day the war begins
Endless reminding of my sin
Time and time again
Your truth Is drowned out by the storm I'm in
Today I feel like I'm just one mistake away
From you leaving me this way
Refrain
I know you've washed me white
Turned my darkness into light
I need your peace to get me through
To get me through this night
I can't live by what I feel
But by the truth your word reveals
I'm not holding on to you
But your holding on to me
Your holding on to me
Jesus, you know just how far
The East is from the West
I don't have to see the man I've been
Rising up in me again
In the arms of your mercy I find rest
Cause you know just how far the East is from the West
From one scarred hand to the other
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Forgiving Ourselves – Part I (Forgiving My Mistakes)
My past two blogs I spoke on forgiving others and forgiving God. Oddly though, it’s often far more difficult for us to forgive ourselves. Certainly, at least in some measure or by some definition, we want to make good choices, treat people well, and live a life of which we’re proud. When we realize we’ve missed that mark, through intention or mistake, we’re very hard on ourselves.
When looking at your past, are you able to let things go, learn, and move on… or are you quite harsh with yourself, possibly long after both God and others have forgiven you? Do you beat yourself up, question your choices, or even fail to make some, for fear you’ll choose wrong? We need to change these negative behaviors, negative self-talk, or fear-prompted actions (or failure to act) if we want to live the abundant life. We have to forgive ourselves. God wants better for us.
Too Many Decisions!
It amazes me how many decisions there are for us to make as adults. Though I may indulge in wise counsel, at the end of the day, as a single person, it’s up to me. I have to sort things about work, the house, relationships, money, travel, and about a thousand other matters. It can be overwhelming. I long for that partner to help me decide, but today, it’s just me and God.
Those of us deeply walking with the Lord have learned to seek him in all things. We pray, ask for wisdom and guidance, and long for his direction. And then at some point, we do the best we can to leap in obedience, or at least toward where we perceive he is directing.
Sometimes, however, I let doubt cripple me. I fear I didn’t hear God right. Worry either paralyzes me into no decision at all or causes me to agonize that I’ve messed up. That’s no way to live.
God wants us to ask, and then either leap or wait as instructed. We must learn to be more secure in God’s love for us. If we’re really seeking, do we think he’ll be so cruel as to let us mistakenly walk off a cliff? I simply ask you this: Are you really seeking him? Let’s assume you are (if not, that’s a whole different conversation). Are you then being obedient in how you think he’s leading you (either to move or be still)? Then you can be free to know you are in his will. Don’t doubt.
”I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me.” Proverbs 8:17
”You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:13
“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.” James 1:5-8
“For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake?” Matthew 7:8-10
Using Our Mistakes to Maneuver Us
It’s broken my heart at times, to watch godly men and women devastated over a decision. They sought the Lord and obeyed, yet it didn’t play out as they thought. They begin to beat themselves up, thinking they screwed up. But think about this, maybe God maneuvers us into his will.
Let’s look at a passage in the Bible where God did exactly that. As I’ll only write snippets here, I encourage you to look at the whole passage. It’s Genesis 27, the story of Isaac blessing Jacob.
In Hebrew tradition, a father would bestow a special blessing on his eldest son. This was a mark of succession in some sense, as if the patriarch was passing on his rule to the next generation.
Isaac, as you may recall, had two sons, twins: Esau and Jacob. As Isaac’s health was failing, he instructed Esau, his slightly elder son, to go on a hunt, bring back good meat, and prepare it. Then, he would give Esau his blessing. Esau did as he was told.
However, Rebekah, Isaac’s wife, overhears and devises a plan to trick Isaac into blessing Jacob instead. Rebekah had heard from God that Jacob was to lead not Esau. Well, whether God had asked Rebekah’s help or she was meddling, is of debate. (How often to we think God needs our “help” to work out his plan when we’re told to wait?). But either way, she took it into her hands to help the situation along. She indeed trick’s Isaac.
Jacob goes into his father and claims to be Esau. Isaac questions him on a few things, trying to assure that it is Esau (Isaac had gone blind so couldn’t see his son). Jacob convinces him and Isaac gives Esau’s birthright and blessing to Jacob.
Soon thereafter, Esau returns. He discovers what has happened, cries out bitterly, and begs his father to correct the situation. But Isaac leaves things as they are:
“But he (Isaac) said, "Your brother came deceitfully and took your blessing."
Esau said, "Isn't he rightly named Jacob? He has deceived me these two times: He took my birthright, and now he's taken my blessing!"
Then he asked, "Haven't you reserved any blessing for me?"
Isaac answered Esau, "I have made him lord over you and have made all his relatives his servants, and I have sustained him with grain and new wine. So what can I possibly do for you, my son?"
Esau said to his father, "Do you have only one blessing, my father? Bless me too, my father!" Then Esau wept aloud.
His father Isaac answered him, "Your dwelling will be away from the earth's richness, away from the dew of heaven above. You will live by the sword and you will serve your brother. But when you grow restless, you will throw his yoke from off your neck."” Genesis 27:35-40
What a horrible outcome! Isaac is deceived. He makes a mistake. And he refuses to correct it?! In my worldly mind, this seems all wrong. Or is it?
Let’s look at Hebrews 11. Many affectionately called this the “Hall of Faith”. For those of you less familiar, this passage in scripture speaks to some of the most faithful throughout the entire Bible. They are to be our witnesses, our role models, by what they’ve done in faith.
Verse 20 says this of Isaac: “By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau in regard to their future.”
Hmmm… What Isaac did, how he was tricked and made a mistake, isn’t considered a problem at all. In fact, he’s being commended for his faith for sticking with that decision!
God says his ways are not our ways. Isaac was called faithful, because he trusted God in the situation. Without faith, it is impossible to please God. God was maneuvering Isaac, to work out His plan, and in faith, Isaac went with it. Faith is trusting God, no matter what, and he did.
You see, Isaac trusted that God knew this was going to happen and He still had everything under control. Either it was all part of God’s plan from the beginning (just working out a bit strange) or knowing what Isaac would do, God had already accommodated. Isaac wasn’t about to correct the situation b/c he believed in God’s sovereignty. Either it was as it was meant to be, or God would divinely fix it. He knew he’d done all in his power to bestow the blessing on the right guy… and it just didn’t work out. Isaac was smart. Jacob was the right guy to take this nation forward and God knew it. God used Isaac to make it happen.
I think on moments in my life where I’ve made the best decision I could at the time. The choice was what I believed was God’s will. And yet, it seemed in the short term, everything played out all wrong! Did I make the wrong choice? Did I completely mess it all up? Have I broken it beyond repair? Did I not hear God? The enemy would love to put all kinds of doubts into our minds. He wants us to doubt God and doubt ourselves. However, each time, in God’s great faithfulness, God used it to do something great and wonderful. He might have gotten me from Point A to Point B more directly, but quite possibly, I had to go the long way, to be truly prepared for Point B!
Are you staying pliable enough to let God maneuver you? Don’t jump in too quickly to try to fix every thing. Your fixing it might in fact break what God has planned! There is always a chance that God needs you to think something is one way, to get you to act. Once you’re in that place, where God needs to be, he may cause you to believe something else, to get you to the next place. Without believing this or that, you may not have ended up where you needed to be otherwise. I see God maneuvering me a lot lately! And oh… the outcome is so sweet!
How to Forgive Our Mistakes
Sweet friends, just trust Him and stop beating yourselves up. Forgive your mistakes. Forgive your confusions or even times you’ve been tricked or manipulated. You erred innocently. God never left you and will NOT let you walk off any cliffs if you’re truly seeking him.
It’s like all the other ways we forgive. We forgive ourselves by recognizing God’s sovereignty.
Look back at the earlier verses I quoted, God promises. The process may not look as we think it should and we may not always choose well, but we are always in God’s loving hands.
“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!” Matthew 7:11
Father God, again we acknowledge your sovereignty. Help us to grow in faith. Help us to understand the vastness of your love. If we do these two things, we can be more assured as we seek you and more steadfast in the decisions we make. Keep us from doubt. Help us to understand how you maneuver us and to embrace this as part of the process. Help us to see clearly. Keep us from meddling in our own lives or those of others when you’re telling us to wait. Some times what we think is the wrong decision, is the right and the right, the wrong. Fill us with your wisdom and discernment. Protect us from being fooled… unless you really want us to be, to get us where we need to go. I pray I am pliable enough that you can maneuver me exactly to where I’m supposed to be, for your glory and in my best interest. AMEN.
When looking at your past, are you able to let things go, learn, and move on… or are you quite harsh with yourself, possibly long after both God and others have forgiven you? Do you beat yourself up, question your choices, or even fail to make some, for fear you’ll choose wrong? We need to change these negative behaviors, negative self-talk, or fear-prompted actions (or failure to act) if we want to live the abundant life. We have to forgive ourselves. God wants better for us.
Too Many Decisions!
It amazes me how many decisions there are for us to make as adults. Though I may indulge in wise counsel, at the end of the day, as a single person, it’s up to me. I have to sort things about work, the house, relationships, money, travel, and about a thousand other matters. It can be overwhelming. I long for that partner to help me decide, but today, it’s just me and God.
Those of us deeply walking with the Lord have learned to seek him in all things. We pray, ask for wisdom and guidance, and long for his direction. And then at some point, we do the best we can to leap in obedience, or at least toward where we perceive he is directing.
Sometimes, however, I let doubt cripple me. I fear I didn’t hear God right. Worry either paralyzes me into no decision at all or causes me to agonize that I’ve messed up. That’s no way to live.
God wants us to ask, and then either leap or wait as instructed. We must learn to be more secure in God’s love for us. If we’re really seeking, do we think he’ll be so cruel as to let us mistakenly walk off a cliff? I simply ask you this: Are you really seeking him? Let’s assume you are (if not, that’s a whole different conversation). Are you then being obedient in how you think he’s leading you (either to move or be still)? Then you can be free to know you are in his will. Don’t doubt.
”I love those who love me, and those who seek me find me.” Proverbs 8:17
”You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:13
“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.” James 1:5-8
“For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake?” Matthew 7:8-10
Using Our Mistakes to Maneuver Us
It’s broken my heart at times, to watch godly men and women devastated over a decision. They sought the Lord and obeyed, yet it didn’t play out as they thought. They begin to beat themselves up, thinking they screwed up. But think about this, maybe God maneuvers us into his will.
Let’s look at a passage in the Bible where God did exactly that. As I’ll only write snippets here, I encourage you to look at the whole passage. It’s Genesis 27, the story of Isaac blessing Jacob.
In Hebrew tradition, a father would bestow a special blessing on his eldest son. This was a mark of succession in some sense, as if the patriarch was passing on his rule to the next generation.
Isaac, as you may recall, had two sons, twins: Esau and Jacob. As Isaac’s health was failing, he instructed Esau, his slightly elder son, to go on a hunt, bring back good meat, and prepare it. Then, he would give Esau his blessing. Esau did as he was told.
However, Rebekah, Isaac’s wife, overhears and devises a plan to trick Isaac into blessing Jacob instead. Rebekah had heard from God that Jacob was to lead not Esau. Well, whether God had asked Rebekah’s help or she was meddling, is of debate. (How often to we think God needs our “help” to work out his plan when we’re told to wait?). But either way, she took it into her hands to help the situation along. She indeed trick’s Isaac.
Jacob goes into his father and claims to be Esau. Isaac questions him on a few things, trying to assure that it is Esau (Isaac had gone blind so couldn’t see his son). Jacob convinces him and Isaac gives Esau’s birthright and blessing to Jacob.
Soon thereafter, Esau returns. He discovers what has happened, cries out bitterly, and begs his father to correct the situation. But Isaac leaves things as they are:
“But he (Isaac) said, "Your brother came deceitfully and took your blessing."
Esau said, "Isn't he rightly named Jacob? He has deceived me these two times: He took my birthright, and now he's taken my blessing!"
Then he asked, "Haven't you reserved any blessing for me?"
Isaac answered Esau, "I have made him lord over you and have made all his relatives his servants, and I have sustained him with grain and new wine. So what can I possibly do for you, my son?"
Esau said to his father, "Do you have only one blessing, my father? Bless me too, my father!" Then Esau wept aloud.
His father Isaac answered him, "Your dwelling will be away from the earth's richness, away from the dew of heaven above. You will live by the sword and you will serve your brother. But when you grow restless, you will throw his yoke from off your neck."” Genesis 27:35-40
What a horrible outcome! Isaac is deceived. He makes a mistake. And he refuses to correct it?! In my worldly mind, this seems all wrong. Or is it?
Let’s look at Hebrews 11. Many affectionately called this the “Hall of Faith”. For those of you less familiar, this passage in scripture speaks to some of the most faithful throughout the entire Bible. They are to be our witnesses, our role models, by what they’ve done in faith.
Verse 20 says this of Isaac: “By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau in regard to their future.”
Hmmm… What Isaac did, how he was tricked and made a mistake, isn’t considered a problem at all. In fact, he’s being commended for his faith for sticking with that decision!
God says his ways are not our ways. Isaac was called faithful, because he trusted God in the situation. Without faith, it is impossible to please God. God was maneuvering Isaac, to work out His plan, and in faith, Isaac went with it. Faith is trusting God, no matter what, and he did.
You see, Isaac trusted that God knew this was going to happen and He still had everything under control. Either it was all part of God’s plan from the beginning (just working out a bit strange) or knowing what Isaac would do, God had already accommodated. Isaac wasn’t about to correct the situation b/c he believed in God’s sovereignty. Either it was as it was meant to be, or God would divinely fix it. He knew he’d done all in his power to bestow the blessing on the right guy… and it just didn’t work out. Isaac was smart. Jacob was the right guy to take this nation forward and God knew it. God used Isaac to make it happen.
I think on moments in my life where I’ve made the best decision I could at the time. The choice was what I believed was God’s will. And yet, it seemed in the short term, everything played out all wrong! Did I make the wrong choice? Did I completely mess it all up? Have I broken it beyond repair? Did I not hear God? The enemy would love to put all kinds of doubts into our minds. He wants us to doubt God and doubt ourselves. However, each time, in God’s great faithfulness, God used it to do something great and wonderful. He might have gotten me from Point A to Point B more directly, but quite possibly, I had to go the long way, to be truly prepared for Point B!
Are you staying pliable enough to let God maneuver you? Don’t jump in too quickly to try to fix every thing. Your fixing it might in fact break what God has planned! There is always a chance that God needs you to think something is one way, to get you to act. Once you’re in that place, where God needs to be, he may cause you to believe something else, to get you to the next place. Without believing this or that, you may not have ended up where you needed to be otherwise. I see God maneuvering me a lot lately! And oh… the outcome is so sweet!
How to Forgive Our Mistakes
Sweet friends, just trust Him and stop beating yourselves up. Forgive your mistakes. Forgive your confusions or even times you’ve been tricked or manipulated. You erred innocently. God never left you and will NOT let you walk off any cliffs if you’re truly seeking him.
It’s like all the other ways we forgive. We forgive ourselves by recognizing God’s sovereignty.
Look back at the earlier verses I quoted, God promises. The process may not look as we think it should and we may not always choose well, but we are always in God’s loving hands.
“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!” Matthew 7:11
Father God, again we acknowledge your sovereignty. Help us to grow in faith. Help us to understand the vastness of your love. If we do these two things, we can be more assured as we seek you and more steadfast in the decisions we make. Keep us from doubt. Help us to understand how you maneuver us and to embrace this as part of the process. Help us to see clearly. Keep us from meddling in our own lives or those of others when you’re telling us to wait. Some times what we think is the wrong decision, is the right and the right, the wrong. Fill us with your wisdom and discernment. Protect us from being fooled… unless you really want us to be, to get us where we need to go. I pray I am pliable enough that you can maneuver me exactly to where I’m supposed to be, for your glory and in my best interest. AMEN.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Forgiving God
If you read my last blog, I spoke on forgiveness and how important it is to our ability to live in the moment, live the abundant life. When we’re living in unforgiveness we’re in bondage to the person or circumstance that has already harmed us. We break free by acknowledging God’s sovereignty in all situations and acknowledging his character, that he’s all knowing, completely just, entirely trust worthy, and loves us so dearly. What has happened to us, and the fact that we may not understand it, does not change any of these things. God was there all along.
Today I want to talk about forgiving God. When we’re hurt, when we don’t understand why he’s allowed certain things or withheld certain things, we get mad at Him. I know you’ve been there. I’ve been there often! Without forgiveness, our relationship with him is damaged.
Why Forgive God?
We’re unable to live in the moment, when we’re not trusting God. We can’t trust him, when we feel we’ve been wronged by him. Though God, in his perfection, can do nothing wrong, some times decisions he makes, things he allows, can hurt us in the short term.
Our failure to acknowledge that we might need to forgive God puts a wedge between him and us. We’re hurt, we’re mad that something played out a certain way. We lost a job, a loved one, a dream was shattered, someone got sick, we don’t like our life status, everything is a struggle. Why won’t God just fix it?! Some times he just can’t. Not because he doesn’t have the power, or he doesn’t have the love, but because he knows the larger plan. This thing HAD to happen to play out his perfect will. Some times it not just about us. Or the development of our character through a circumstance is more important than a situation itself.
Do you know what? God wants you to come to him with all your heartaches, even if you think he caused them. In all good relationships, we must go to the one that’s hurt us and tell them. If we don’t get honest with God when he’s hurt us, that chasm between him and us will only grow. That bitterness takes root and we find ourselves all the further off track without him.
“Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.” Psalm 55:22
Share the Hurt and Frustration
When I was in London, I met an amazing individual, who loves the Lord, but frankly, he’s broken her heart. Things have happened that have caused her to doubt. I don’t believe she doubts who he says he is or of what he’s capable. She doubts his love for her and whether he is a loving God, if he can allow so many hard things, especially to those who are trying to live according to his ways. Hurt and frustrated, she’s walked away from him. She doesn’t know what else to do.
Our meeting was certainly a divine appointment. If you know me, you know that the last few years God has allowed me to go through several trials that left me questioning his love, or at least his methods. I shared with her how often I’ve cried out to him for understanding.
I told her what I’ve learned most, is just keep talking. Like a human relationship, you need to communicate. You need to share your thoughts, feelings, and work through things together. I remember calling God to task on some of his promises in scripture. Dangerous! You can see I was pretty desperate. I begged him to meet me where I was, comfort me, give me strength, help it make sense, help me see anything differently, anything! I was more than once at my wits end.
I told her there were times that I too wanted to give up on Him, just turn away. But time and again, Peter’s words in John 6:67-68 resounded with me. Jesus asks Peter if he too will abandon him. Peter responds: “Lord, to whom shall we go?”
Some times I feel like he makes it hard to stay. Yet isn’t that my own lack of understanding, confusion, selfishness? I find when I have strayed, I’ve fallen into all sorts of temptations to ease my pain. Most regularly, these only caused more heartache and never filled me.
How Do You Forgive God?
God told me once that I doubted him, because I’d forgotten who he was. I did a study on all his attributes in hopes of remembering… his love, his mercy, his omnipotence, all of it.
Forgiving God is like forgiving anyone else. It begins by submitting to God’s authority. You remember he’s God, you’re not, and he just knows more than you. God would remind me of all the times he’s been faithful in the past and that he wasn’t about to stop being faithful now. The Israelites set up tangible reminders, their Ebenezer stones, to remember God’s faithfulness. I have a lot of Ebenezer stones, so I insist on trusting him.
“The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." Deuteronomy 3:8
A couple weeks ago, in chatting with a friend, in occurred to me that many of my longings have gone unmet, many questions left unanswered, for upwards of seven years. And yet, as I look back, I see all the good that has come out of this journey. God is pruning me, preparing me. I know that God has big plans for me. He will answer many of my questions and fill my heart, but first, he is disciplining me, so I am not swayed by the world, but ready to be all he has planned.
“Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons. Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of our spirits and live! Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” Hebrews 12:7-11
It’s Not Just Me Who Cries
Last weekend I visited my nieces and two new nephews. How I cherish them! It occurred to me how hard it must be for their parents to discipline them, loving them as they do. But I know that it’s in loving them, that they MUST discipline them. Some times it kills the parent to discipline, as they watch their child cry and cry, hurt and confused. But it’s for their growth and protection.
God whispered to me, how hard its been for him, how many tears he’s shed, as he’s had to watch me all those nights I’ve cried… knowing that NOT rescuing me was for my own good. He knew that REALLY loving me meant that he could only comfort me at times and at others, just watch me struggle. As my Father, he wanted me to be ok, to understand, but seeing the big picture, he had to wait and just let me go through it. He knew I could and that I had to, to move forward.
CS Lewis wrote: “Isn't God supposed to be good? Isn't he supposed to love us? And does God want us to suffer? What if the answer to that question is yes? See, I'm not sure that God wants us to be particularly happy. I think he wants us to love and to be loved. He wants us to grow up. I suggest to you that it is because God loves us that he gives us the gift of suffering. Or to put it another way, pain is God's megaphone to rouse a deaf world. You see, we are like blocks of stone out of which The Sculptor carves the forms of man. The blows of His chisel which hurt us so much are what makes us perfect.”
God’s adventure isn’t always easy. I know several of you, expressed to me that much of your current lack of faith, apathy, or anger/frustration with God, is because you feel he’s never really been there for you. He’s let you down, so you’ve walked away. I BEG you give him another chance. You can’t do this life alone, without him. Your greatest effort and struggle, is nothing compared to what he can bring you, if you trust him. We don’t understand his ways, but he does have a purpose for your pain. He hates to see us hurt, so he never wastes a hurt.
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD.” Isaiah 55:8
“And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” Ephesians 3:17b-21
Talk to him about it. Tell him you’re pissed off! Goodness knows he’s heard strong words from me, some you’d hardly dare to use in front of God! Ask him to help you understand. Let him comfort you. Try to find a way to forgive him. Your ability to live the abundant life depends on it!
Just in closing… there’s a song that always seems to pop on the radio, when I’m most angry at God. It’s by MercyMe. It goes like this:
“I can count a million times, people asking me how I can praise You with all that I've gone through. The question just amazes me can circumstances possibly change who I forever am in You. Maybe since my life was changed, long before these rainy days, It's never really ever crossed my mind. To turn my back on you, oh Lord, my only shelter from the storm, but instead I draw closer through these times. So I pray:
Bring me joy, bring me peace
Bring the chance to be free
Bring me anything that brings
You glory And I know there'll
be days When this life brings me pain
But if that's what it takes to
praise You Jesus, bring the rain
I am yours regardless of the clouds that may loom above because you are much greater than my pain. You who made a way for me, suffering your destiny, so tell me, what’s a little rain? So I pray: (return to refrain)”
Father God, we know that throughout scripture, you warn us that this world will be full of trouble, full of pain. It sure is, and there’s so much we don’t understand. In these times, we cry out, and unfortunately, some times we run away from you, hurt and angry. Help us to see your love, no matter the circumstance. Help us to trust you, bear with you. Give us something to remind us of your goodness, when it hard to believe. Help us to understand your character. Give us the humbleness and strength to yield to your will. Help us forgive you. Restore today, any broken relationships between you and any who may read this. Help them to talk to you. Listen to them and don’t be silent. As for me, help me to continue to stand firm. Protect me from the world's many temptations when I struggle to trust you. I love you, Lord. AMEN.
Today I want to talk about forgiving God. When we’re hurt, when we don’t understand why he’s allowed certain things or withheld certain things, we get mad at Him. I know you’ve been there. I’ve been there often! Without forgiveness, our relationship with him is damaged.
Why Forgive God?
We’re unable to live in the moment, when we’re not trusting God. We can’t trust him, when we feel we’ve been wronged by him. Though God, in his perfection, can do nothing wrong, some times decisions he makes, things he allows, can hurt us in the short term.
Our failure to acknowledge that we might need to forgive God puts a wedge between him and us. We’re hurt, we’re mad that something played out a certain way. We lost a job, a loved one, a dream was shattered, someone got sick, we don’t like our life status, everything is a struggle. Why won’t God just fix it?! Some times he just can’t. Not because he doesn’t have the power, or he doesn’t have the love, but because he knows the larger plan. This thing HAD to happen to play out his perfect will. Some times it not just about us. Or the development of our character through a circumstance is more important than a situation itself.
Do you know what? God wants you to come to him with all your heartaches, even if you think he caused them. In all good relationships, we must go to the one that’s hurt us and tell them. If we don’t get honest with God when he’s hurt us, that chasm between him and us will only grow. That bitterness takes root and we find ourselves all the further off track without him.
“Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.” Psalm 55:22
Share the Hurt and Frustration
When I was in London, I met an amazing individual, who loves the Lord, but frankly, he’s broken her heart. Things have happened that have caused her to doubt. I don’t believe she doubts who he says he is or of what he’s capable. She doubts his love for her and whether he is a loving God, if he can allow so many hard things, especially to those who are trying to live according to his ways. Hurt and frustrated, she’s walked away from him. She doesn’t know what else to do.
Our meeting was certainly a divine appointment. If you know me, you know that the last few years God has allowed me to go through several trials that left me questioning his love, or at least his methods. I shared with her how often I’ve cried out to him for understanding.
I told her what I’ve learned most, is just keep talking. Like a human relationship, you need to communicate. You need to share your thoughts, feelings, and work through things together. I remember calling God to task on some of his promises in scripture. Dangerous! You can see I was pretty desperate. I begged him to meet me where I was, comfort me, give me strength, help it make sense, help me see anything differently, anything! I was more than once at my wits end.
I told her there were times that I too wanted to give up on Him, just turn away. But time and again, Peter’s words in John 6:67-68 resounded with me. Jesus asks Peter if he too will abandon him. Peter responds: “Lord, to whom shall we go?”
Some times I feel like he makes it hard to stay. Yet isn’t that my own lack of understanding, confusion, selfishness? I find when I have strayed, I’ve fallen into all sorts of temptations to ease my pain. Most regularly, these only caused more heartache and never filled me.
How Do You Forgive God?
God told me once that I doubted him, because I’d forgotten who he was. I did a study on all his attributes in hopes of remembering… his love, his mercy, his omnipotence, all of it.
Forgiving God is like forgiving anyone else. It begins by submitting to God’s authority. You remember he’s God, you’re not, and he just knows more than you. God would remind me of all the times he’s been faithful in the past and that he wasn’t about to stop being faithful now. The Israelites set up tangible reminders, their Ebenezer stones, to remember God’s faithfulness. I have a lot of Ebenezer stones, so I insist on trusting him.
“The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." Deuteronomy 3:8
A couple weeks ago, in chatting with a friend, in occurred to me that many of my longings have gone unmet, many questions left unanswered, for upwards of seven years. And yet, as I look back, I see all the good that has come out of this journey. God is pruning me, preparing me. I know that God has big plans for me. He will answer many of my questions and fill my heart, but first, he is disciplining me, so I am not swayed by the world, but ready to be all he has planned.
“Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons. Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of our spirits and live! Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” Hebrews 12:7-11
It’s Not Just Me Who Cries
Last weekend I visited my nieces and two new nephews. How I cherish them! It occurred to me how hard it must be for their parents to discipline them, loving them as they do. But I know that it’s in loving them, that they MUST discipline them. Some times it kills the parent to discipline, as they watch their child cry and cry, hurt and confused. But it’s for their growth and protection.
God whispered to me, how hard its been for him, how many tears he’s shed, as he’s had to watch me all those nights I’ve cried… knowing that NOT rescuing me was for my own good. He knew that REALLY loving me meant that he could only comfort me at times and at others, just watch me struggle. As my Father, he wanted me to be ok, to understand, but seeing the big picture, he had to wait and just let me go through it. He knew I could and that I had to, to move forward.
CS Lewis wrote: “Isn't God supposed to be good? Isn't he supposed to love us? And does God want us to suffer? What if the answer to that question is yes? See, I'm not sure that God wants us to be particularly happy. I think he wants us to love and to be loved. He wants us to grow up. I suggest to you that it is because God loves us that he gives us the gift of suffering. Or to put it another way, pain is God's megaphone to rouse a deaf world. You see, we are like blocks of stone out of which The Sculptor carves the forms of man. The blows of His chisel which hurt us so much are what makes us perfect.”
God’s adventure isn’t always easy. I know several of you, expressed to me that much of your current lack of faith, apathy, or anger/frustration with God, is because you feel he’s never really been there for you. He’s let you down, so you’ve walked away. I BEG you give him another chance. You can’t do this life alone, without him. Your greatest effort and struggle, is nothing compared to what he can bring you, if you trust him. We don’t understand his ways, but he does have a purpose for your pain. He hates to see us hurt, so he never wastes a hurt.
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD.” Isaiah 55:8
“And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” Ephesians 3:17b-21
Talk to him about it. Tell him you’re pissed off! Goodness knows he’s heard strong words from me, some you’d hardly dare to use in front of God! Ask him to help you understand. Let him comfort you. Try to find a way to forgive him. Your ability to live the abundant life depends on it!
Just in closing… there’s a song that always seems to pop on the radio, when I’m most angry at God. It’s by MercyMe. It goes like this:
“I can count a million times, people asking me how I can praise You with all that I've gone through. The question just amazes me can circumstances possibly change who I forever am in You. Maybe since my life was changed, long before these rainy days, It's never really ever crossed my mind. To turn my back on you, oh Lord, my only shelter from the storm, but instead I draw closer through these times. So I pray:
Bring me joy, bring me peace
Bring the chance to be free
Bring me anything that brings
You glory And I know there'll
be days When this life brings me pain
But if that's what it takes to
praise You Jesus, bring the rain
I am yours regardless of the clouds that may loom above because you are much greater than my pain. You who made a way for me, suffering your destiny, so tell me, what’s a little rain? So I pray: (return to refrain)”
Father God, we know that throughout scripture, you warn us that this world will be full of trouble, full of pain. It sure is, and there’s so much we don’t understand. In these times, we cry out, and unfortunately, some times we run away from you, hurt and angry. Help us to see your love, no matter the circumstance. Help us to trust you, bear with you. Give us something to remind us of your goodness, when it hard to believe. Help us to understand your character. Give us the humbleness and strength to yield to your will. Help us forgive you. Restore today, any broken relationships between you and any who may read this. Help them to talk to you. Listen to them and don’t be silent. As for me, help me to continue to stand firm. Protect me from the world's many temptations when I struggle to trust you. I love you, Lord. AMEN.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Set Free Through Forgiveness
As I continue to consider moments, I realize the most wasted moments are those we sit too long in hurt and anger over being wronged. Until we forgive, really forgive, that person, what happened, owns us. It shapes us. That’s not what we want!
Unforgiveness steals our moments. New moments that God may have for us are lost because we’re unable to let go of the past. Our bitterness keeps us from enjoying today.
What is Forgiveness?
When we’re sinned against, disrespected, betrayed, it’s reasonable to feel hurt. It’s even ok to be angry. But there comes a time to move on, forgive. The more quickly we can do this, the better.
“Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. ‘In your anger do not sin’: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.” Ephesians 4:25-27
“Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.” Hebrews 12:14-15
Forgiveness is not merely saying “I forgive you”. It’s a condition of the heart. Speaking the words may be required or even essential to heal ourselves or move forward in a relationship. But whether or not we are able or choose to speak it, we must do it, from the depths of our soul.
Forgiveness is a decision. I have to decide I want to forgive. However, the actual forgiveness may be a process. Some times a hurt is so deep, that we must “forgive” by decision over and over again, until the heart really lets it go. It could take days, months, even years. I’m free to mourn and heal (without this, the forgiveness might not “stick”) but it’s not ok to let a bitter root spring up; my forgiveness has to be active. I need to work through my hurt, until it is really resolved.
We have truly forgiven, when we can wish the other well and love again freely, keeping no record of rights or wrongs. It’s allowing the past to be the past and taking our lessons forward.
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Why Should I Forgive?
We some how believe unforgiveness punishes the wrong doer. However, the truth is, we remain enslaved until we forgive. Not to mention, it puts us into sin, erecting a wall between us and God.
Unforgiveness denies God of his sovereignty and challenges his character.
When we refuse to forgive one another, its as if we’re saying one of four things:
1) God is not sovereign. He didn’t know this would happen. It was out of his control or occurred outside his jurisdiction.
2) God is not just. He didn’t handle the situation fairly, so we need to take matters into our own hands.
3) God is not loving. He was cruel to let this happen; he cannot be trusted.
4) God is a liar. He said he’d work all things to good, but nothing good has resulted.
All of these are FALSE (the enemy's lies) and dangerous to believe. When we're hurt, we somehow feel that God has lost control, so we put up walls to protect ourselves in case it happens again. And we deny each other our human-ness, the right to be ever improving vessels it the potter's hands. We can’t live in the moment when we’re living like this.
Let’s remember what is TRUE: God is all powerful and all knowing. Nothing happens outside what he allows. He is just, but he is also full of grace. I’m thankful he doesn’t give me what I really deserve! He loves each of us dearly, as his children. And though we don’t always understand, he has a purpose for everything, even if it’s just to teach us.
This means that whatever has happened, even the bad, he’s allowed, through all his love for me. He must have a great purpose, far beyond what I can understand. We should look for any good that has come out of a situation, acknowledge that value, and forgive.
For two years God has been teaching me that I need to trust people. When I struggle to trust a person, I need to trust God more. I need to remember that nothing occurs outside of his grasp and everything he uses to fulfill his plans for me. An ever growing faith should lead to an ever growing capacity to forgive, as we acknowledge who God is and that he’s sovereign.
“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” Hebrews 11:16
Let’s look at a few more verses on how God sees sin and forgiveness:
“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” Romans 3:23
“Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy.” Micah 7:18
“Praise the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits- who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.” Psalm 103:2-5
“For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.” Psalm 103:11-12
“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” Luke 6:37
“I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more.” Isaiah 43:25
How do I Forgive Others?
If a perfect God can forgive an imperfect person, surely an imperfect person can forgive another imperfect person. We should find a way to do this, understanding and acknowledging through our own circumstance how prone we are to failure! How many times have I hurt another out of honest mistake or just pure stupidity? More than I can count. Few if any of us intentionally sin against one another. And for even those who do, or who may show no remorse, it’s not that they won’t serve the consequences for their actions. It’s just not our's to dole out, only God’s.
"If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her." John 8:7b
This verse, if you’re unawares, pertains to the woman caught in adultery. Jesus catches a group of men about to stone this woman for her sin. But he wisely points out, that’s not their right.
Some commentaries postulate that the older men were actually the first to put their rocks down. In their age, they were far more aware of the sins they’d committed over time. Likewise, the more religious knew how prone they too were to sin and could not hold it against her. As I age, and grow in faith, I too am aware of all my failings. I have to be ready to forgive others.
In the past month, there have been several people I’ve been called to forgive. In two situations, I was hurt by actions of friends, quite unintentionally. Because I love these friends, we talked it out and all is well. In another situation, I was hurt, but gave it to the Lord and just let in go. I was less invested and the infraction not as critical, so that was possible. But a final situation was for more troubling and has been more difficult.
Though details are unimportant, several years ago I was truly wronged. Someone said and did some things against me, publicly, that few of you would dispute as terrible. To this day, that person has zero remorse. I have reason to be angry.
Until recently, I hadn’t seen this person for years, so thought I’d forgotten about it. I may have forgotten, but my visceral reaction made it clear I hadn’t forgiven.
Terrible thoughts and feelings soared through my mind and heart. I was ashamed at how angry I was! I began to pray through it and time and time again, this one verse came up…
“You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” Genesis 50:20
For those of you unfamiliar with the story of Joseph, Joseph’s brothers were jealous of him, so they sold him into slavery. They lied to their father and said he’d been killed. In spite of his own faith and righteousness, through a series of other twisted events, he ends up in prison. But then he interprets a dream for Pharaoh and is given a key position. This enables him to save his own brothers from famine, securing a future for Israel. He says this to them, forgiving them for what they did.
You see, God always knew what would happen. He allowed it. And he planned on how to use it. Neither Joseph’s brothers, nor any other, had power to harm Joseph beyond what God allowed.
Such is surely true in my situation. God knew it. He allowed it. He had a reason. I look back now and see how God used it for good in the lives of many. So how can I not forgive?
That’s when God gave me the words of this blog: Unforgiveness denies God his sovereignty and challenges his character. He’s proved himself true. Just because one intended to hurt me, didn’t mean God had lost control. The opposite!
“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
I have some thoughts on forgiving God (yes, forgiving GOD) and forgiving ourselves, but this is enough to chew on for now. You’ll just have to wait for future blogs!
Father God, forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lord, you know in our hearts, there are things that are easy to forgive and others that are far more difficult. Some times it is our pride that keeps us from forgiveness. Some times it is extensive, deep hurt. Help us to forgive. Help us to acknowledge your sovereignty. Help us to trust you, no matter how we've been wronged. Help us to heal and move forward. Show us the lessons you have for us and help us release any right or claim to retribution. Teach us to love those who its harder for us to love. AMEN.
Unforgiveness steals our moments. New moments that God may have for us are lost because we’re unable to let go of the past. Our bitterness keeps us from enjoying today.
What is Forgiveness?
When we’re sinned against, disrespected, betrayed, it’s reasonable to feel hurt. It’s even ok to be angry. But there comes a time to move on, forgive. The more quickly we can do this, the better.
“Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body. ‘In your anger do not sin’: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.” Ephesians 4:25-27
“Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.” Hebrews 12:14-15
Forgiveness is not merely saying “I forgive you”. It’s a condition of the heart. Speaking the words may be required or even essential to heal ourselves or move forward in a relationship. But whether or not we are able or choose to speak it, we must do it, from the depths of our soul.
Forgiveness is a decision. I have to decide I want to forgive. However, the actual forgiveness may be a process. Some times a hurt is so deep, that we must “forgive” by decision over and over again, until the heart really lets it go. It could take days, months, even years. I’m free to mourn and heal (without this, the forgiveness might not “stick”) but it’s not ok to let a bitter root spring up; my forgiveness has to be active. I need to work through my hurt, until it is really resolved.
We have truly forgiven, when we can wish the other well and love again freely, keeping no record of rights or wrongs. It’s allowing the past to be the past and taking our lessons forward.
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Why Should I Forgive?
We some how believe unforgiveness punishes the wrong doer. However, the truth is, we remain enslaved until we forgive. Not to mention, it puts us into sin, erecting a wall between us and God.
Unforgiveness denies God of his sovereignty and challenges his character.
When we refuse to forgive one another, its as if we’re saying one of four things:
1) God is not sovereign. He didn’t know this would happen. It was out of his control or occurred outside his jurisdiction.
2) God is not just. He didn’t handle the situation fairly, so we need to take matters into our own hands.
3) God is not loving. He was cruel to let this happen; he cannot be trusted.
4) God is a liar. He said he’d work all things to good, but nothing good has resulted.
All of these are FALSE (the enemy's lies) and dangerous to believe. When we're hurt, we somehow feel that God has lost control, so we put up walls to protect ourselves in case it happens again. And we deny each other our human-ness, the right to be ever improving vessels it the potter's hands. We can’t live in the moment when we’re living like this.
Let’s remember what is TRUE: God is all powerful and all knowing. Nothing happens outside what he allows. He is just, but he is also full of grace. I’m thankful he doesn’t give me what I really deserve! He loves each of us dearly, as his children. And though we don’t always understand, he has a purpose for everything, even if it’s just to teach us.
This means that whatever has happened, even the bad, he’s allowed, through all his love for me. He must have a great purpose, far beyond what I can understand. We should look for any good that has come out of a situation, acknowledge that value, and forgive.
For two years God has been teaching me that I need to trust people. When I struggle to trust a person, I need to trust God more. I need to remember that nothing occurs outside of his grasp and everything he uses to fulfill his plans for me. An ever growing faith should lead to an ever growing capacity to forgive, as we acknowledge who God is and that he’s sovereign.
“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” Hebrews 11:16
Let’s look at a few more verses on how God sees sin and forgiveness:
“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” Romans 3:23
“Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy.” Micah 7:18
“Praise the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits- who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.” Psalm 103:2-5
“For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.” Psalm 103:11-12
“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” Luke 6:37
“I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more.” Isaiah 43:25
How do I Forgive Others?
If a perfect God can forgive an imperfect person, surely an imperfect person can forgive another imperfect person. We should find a way to do this, understanding and acknowledging through our own circumstance how prone we are to failure! How many times have I hurt another out of honest mistake or just pure stupidity? More than I can count. Few if any of us intentionally sin against one another. And for even those who do, or who may show no remorse, it’s not that they won’t serve the consequences for their actions. It’s just not our's to dole out, only God’s.
"If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her." John 8:7b
This verse, if you’re unawares, pertains to the woman caught in adultery. Jesus catches a group of men about to stone this woman for her sin. But he wisely points out, that’s not their right.
Some commentaries postulate that the older men were actually the first to put their rocks down. In their age, they were far more aware of the sins they’d committed over time. Likewise, the more religious knew how prone they too were to sin and could not hold it against her. As I age, and grow in faith, I too am aware of all my failings. I have to be ready to forgive others.
In the past month, there have been several people I’ve been called to forgive. In two situations, I was hurt by actions of friends, quite unintentionally. Because I love these friends, we talked it out and all is well. In another situation, I was hurt, but gave it to the Lord and just let in go. I was less invested and the infraction not as critical, so that was possible. But a final situation was for more troubling and has been more difficult.
Though details are unimportant, several years ago I was truly wronged. Someone said and did some things against me, publicly, that few of you would dispute as terrible. To this day, that person has zero remorse. I have reason to be angry.
Until recently, I hadn’t seen this person for years, so thought I’d forgotten about it. I may have forgotten, but my visceral reaction made it clear I hadn’t forgiven.
Terrible thoughts and feelings soared through my mind and heart. I was ashamed at how angry I was! I began to pray through it and time and time again, this one verse came up…
“You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” Genesis 50:20
For those of you unfamiliar with the story of Joseph, Joseph’s brothers were jealous of him, so they sold him into slavery. They lied to their father and said he’d been killed. In spite of his own faith and righteousness, through a series of other twisted events, he ends up in prison. But then he interprets a dream for Pharaoh and is given a key position. This enables him to save his own brothers from famine, securing a future for Israel. He says this to them, forgiving them for what they did.
You see, God always knew what would happen. He allowed it. And he planned on how to use it. Neither Joseph’s brothers, nor any other, had power to harm Joseph beyond what God allowed.
Such is surely true in my situation. God knew it. He allowed it. He had a reason. I look back now and see how God used it for good in the lives of many. So how can I not forgive?
That’s when God gave me the words of this blog: Unforgiveness denies God his sovereignty and challenges his character. He’s proved himself true. Just because one intended to hurt me, didn’t mean God had lost control. The opposite!
“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
I have some thoughts on forgiving God (yes, forgiving GOD) and forgiving ourselves, but this is enough to chew on for now. You’ll just have to wait for future blogs!
Father God, forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lord, you know in our hearts, there are things that are easy to forgive and others that are far more difficult. Some times it is our pride that keeps us from forgiveness. Some times it is extensive, deep hurt. Help us to forgive. Help us to acknowledge your sovereignty. Help us to trust you, no matter how we've been wronged. Help us to heal and move forward. Show us the lessons you have for us and help us release any right or claim to retribution. Teach us to love those who its harder for us to love. AMEN.
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Embracing Seasons
The acceptance of seasons is tightly related to our ability to live in the moment.
Holding on Too Tight
I used to believe, that every relationship, every friendship, was worth fighting for. I thought my commitment to people was one of the best things about me. I still believe this true, but I wonder if some times I try too hard because I worry what a lost relationship could say about me. Was I not lovable enough for someone to stick around? Could I fix it if I just tried harder?
Oh, thank you Father, I’ve learned this year, that the loss of a relationship doesn’t mean that I’ve some how failed or that I’m some how unworthy of love. As I’ve seen people come in and out of my life this year, I’ve realized some relationships are only meant for a season.
The Value of a Season
Each person God brings into our lives impacts us differently. They may bless us, challenge us, or give us a chance to love or grow. We should embrace this no matter how short the season, not fear it. Some relationships are not meant to last more than a few encounters. That’s ok. So much can we give and receive in short periods of time. I’m surely not saying to take friendship lightly, but be thankful for each person, in each moment, and don’t take losses too hard.
I’ve been home just over a month. Most of my friends in London have been reduced to infrequent Facebook notes. Even those with whom I felt most close have gone on with their lives. One even confessed that it’s just too much effort to keep in touch. In all fairness, I’ve moved on too. And I expected this to happen. Though, as I value these people and these relationships, I’d hoped it wouldn’t happen so quickly. I’m trying not to take it so hard, but it hurts a little.
When I first felt the “drift”, I went to God with a heavy heart. Was it worth it? I’d opened up my heart to these people. Maybe “being in the moment” was silly and only brought more hurt.
God gently responded: “Oh child, it wasn’t a waste. I brought these people to you and you to them. You blessed these people for a time and they filled you up. You talked about me. And they helped you in hard times and supported you so you could grow. It was all worth it. It was everything it was meant to be, because you embraced it. But yes, now its time for you to move on, for them to move on. This chapter may be finished, but the book is still being written in all your lives. If I still have a purpose for you in each other’s lives, distance, even lack of talking, won’t ruin it. But if I don’t, you need to let go, and just keep opening your heart to the others I put before you. Stay in the moment. I’ll guide you, moment by moment.”
All I could say through tears was “wow”. How my Father loves me and gives me amazing experiences… and puts in my life amazing people, even if just for a short time.
Fighting Seasons – Don’t!
How often we fail to really engage in people’s lives or let them into ours, because we’re afraid we might lose them. People move, get busy, journey in and out of relationships and priorities, even die. If we shut down, we won’t hurt as much when they leave. But oh… how much we’ll miss out, while they’re still here. I’d rather love big for a season than be cold inside.
I’ve also found that holding on too tightly to people only meant to be a season, cannot only prolong pain, but it can de-rail or at least delay all God has for me in my next season. The same is true for far more than just relationships. If we’re to move out of a job, a town, a church, an activity, but we refuse, we’re missing God’s next great thing for us. It may be difficult, and it can take some time to mourn, but we must do it. We must accept this change and even embrace it. So often I’ve found it hard to let go, excruciating even, only to find that the next thing was far sweeter. We must just say our goodbyes, cry if we must, and move on.
But the adverse is also true. There may be times when God is holding us in relationships, situations, circumstances, jobs, life status (such as singleness), for a very good reason. He still has work for us to do or something to teach us. We should not be so eager to move on to the next thing. We may not be ready for that next thing or it may not be ready for us. In rushing to that next thing, we may miss some amazing moments we’ll never be able to get back. We must trust in God’s love, God’s timing, and take full advantage of whatever season he wants us in NOW.
What Scripture Says
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.” Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
Solomon was so very wise. If only we could be so wise, and move moment to moment fluidly.
Everything has a season. Some seasons are grand; others are hard. But they’re all valuable.
“What does the worker gain from his toil? I have seen the burden God has laid on men. He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end. I know that there is nothing better for men than to be happy and do good while they live. That everyone may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all his toil—this is the gift of God. I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that men will revere him.” Ecclesiastes 3:9-14
I know that last passage is a bit odd and confusing… but the point is this: God wants us to live vibrantly in the season we are in. Do the work when it’s required. God will make everything beautiful in its time. (I love that verse!). And then when its time, relax and celebrate. Everything has a purpose and the greatest of all, is to help us see God himself.
Father God, I thank and praise you for my time in London, for each person I met. I thank you especially for a few specific people, Brits and Americans, who made my year what it was. Even if it was only for a season, I will not stop praising you for them… for how I was able to encourage and stretch them… and how they encouraged and stretched me.
I thank you that you make everything beautiful in its time, relationships, activities, and even our work. You have great plans for us and I will not cease praising you for that, even when It’s hard, even when I have to wait. Give us the strength to embrace each season with enthusiasm. Give us discernment to know when to stay and fight and when to move on. Help us to see your face wherever you have us. AMEN.
Holding on Too Tight
I used to believe, that every relationship, every friendship, was worth fighting for. I thought my commitment to people was one of the best things about me. I still believe this true, but I wonder if some times I try too hard because I worry what a lost relationship could say about me. Was I not lovable enough for someone to stick around? Could I fix it if I just tried harder?
Oh, thank you Father, I’ve learned this year, that the loss of a relationship doesn’t mean that I’ve some how failed or that I’m some how unworthy of love. As I’ve seen people come in and out of my life this year, I’ve realized some relationships are only meant for a season.
The Value of a Season
Each person God brings into our lives impacts us differently. They may bless us, challenge us, or give us a chance to love or grow. We should embrace this no matter how short the season, not fear it. Some relationships are not meant to last more than a few encounters. That’s ok. So much can we give and receive in short periods of time. I’m surely not saying to take friendship lightly, but be thankful for each person, in each moment, and don’t take losses too hard.
I’ve been home just over a month. Most of my friends in London have been reduced to infrequent Facebook notes. Even those with whom I felt most close have gone on with their lives. One even confessed that it’s just too much effort to keep in touch. In all fairness, I’ve moved on too. And I expected this to happen. Though, as I value these people and these relationships, I’d hoped it wouldn’t happen so quickly. I’m trying not to take it so hard, but it hurts a little.
When I first felt the “drift”, I went to God with a heavy heart. Was it worth it? I’d opened up my heart to these people. Maybe “being in the moment” was silly and only brought more hurt.
God gently responded: “Oh child, it wasn’t a waste. I brought these people to you and you to them. You blessed these people for a time and they filled you up. You talked about me. And they helped you in hard times and supported you so you could grow. It was all worth it. It was everything it was meant to be, because you embraced it. But yes, now its time for you to move on, for them to move on. This chapter may be finished, but the book is still being written in all your lives. If I still have a purpose for you in each other’s lives, distance, even lack of talking, won’t ruin it. But if I don’t, you need to let go, and just keep opening your heart to the others I put before you. Stay in the moment. I’ll guide you, moment by moment.”
All I could say through tears was “wow”. How my Father loves me and gives me amazing experiences… and puts in my life amazing people, even if just for a short time.
Fighting Seasons – Don’t!
How often we fail to really engage in people’s lives or let them into ours, because we’re afraid we might lose them. People move, get busy, journey in and out of relationships and priorities, even die. If we shut down, we won’t hurt as much when they leave. But oh… how much we’ll miss out, while they’re still here. I’d rather love big for a season than be cold inside.
I’ve also found that holding on too tightly to people only meant to be a season, cannot only prolong pain, but it can de-rail or at least delay all God has for me in my next season. The same is true for far more than just relationships. If we’re to move out of a job, a town, a church, an activity, but we refuse, we’re missing God’s next great thing for us. It may be difficult, and it can take some time to mourn, but we must do it. We must accept this change and even embrace it. So often I’ve found it hard to let go, excruciating even, only to find that the next thing was far sweeter. We must just say our goodbyes, cry if we must, and move on.
But the adverse is also true. There may be times when God is holding us in relationships, situations, circumstances, jobs, life status (such as singleness), for a very good reason. He still has work for us to do or something to teach us. We should not be so eager to move on to the next thing. We may not be ready for that next thing or it may not be ready for us. In rushing to that next thing, we may miss some amazing moments we’ll never be able to get back. We must trust in God’s love, God’s timing, and take full advantage of whatever season he wants us in NOW.
What Scripture Says
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.” Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
Solomon was so very wise. If only we could be so wise, and move moment to moment fluidly.
Everything has a season. Some seasons are grand; others are hard. But they’re all valuable.
“What does the worker gain from his toil? I have seen the burden God has laid on men. He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end. I know that there is nothing better for men than to be happy and do good while they live. That everyone may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all his toil—this is the gift of God. I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that men will revere him.” Ecclesiastes 3:9-14
I know that last passage is a bit odd and confusing… but the point is this: God wants us to live vibrantly in the season we are in. Do the work when it’s required. God will make everything beautiful in its time. (I love that verse!). And then when its time, relax and celebrate. Everything has a purpose and the greatest of all, is to help us see God himself.
Father God, I thank and praise you for my time in London, for each person I met. I thank you especially for a few specific people, Brits and Americans, who made my year what it was. Even if it was only for a season, I will not stop praising you for them… for how I was able to encourage and stretch them… and how they encouraged and stretched me.
I thank you that you make everything beautiful in its time, relationships, activities, and even our work. You have great plans for us and I will not cease praising you for that, even when It’s hard, even when I have to wait. Give us the strength to embrace each season with enthusiasm. Give us discernment to know when to stay and fight and when to move on. Help us to see your face wherever you have us. AMEN.
Friday, February 1, 2008
Living in the Moment
“I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10b
What is Living in the Moment?
This is the abundant life: to live life to the full.
My most treasured lesson from my last weeks in London is what joy is found in living in the moment. I knew my time in London was short, time I’d never get back, so I met new people, experienced new things, had fun, made a lot of memories and through it all, learned a great deal.
This blog is the start of a series on the abundant life… what it means, what’s keeping us from it, and how to bring it back. For those of you that are followers of Christ, you know this starts with Him and I’ll express what he’s been teaching me about it. For those of you that might be reading my blogs for the first time, you’ll find that even though the basis of my writing is my faith, of which you may hold different belief, there still may be valuable principles for you.
My last month in London, I took a lot of chances. I opened my heart and my mind. I was bold, care free. And though there was even hurt, I regret not one thing. Why don’t I live this way every single day of my life? Two reasons: I don’t feel I have the right… and I’m scared.
I always thought living in the moment a secular concept and one of which Christians should be weary. Scripture says that’s not the case at all! God wants us to live in today. He doesn’t want us endlessly licking our past wounds. He doesn’t want us meticulously focused on preparing for tomorrow. God wants us to embrace what he has for us today, right in this moment.
“This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24
“Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:34
Discerning Moments
Hmmm… What about discernment? Does this mean we just throw caution to the wind?
By definition, living in the moment is about spontaneity and freedom. This isn’t negated in the Christian life. God has given us great freedoms and isn’t inherently against spontaneity. Ironically however, the ability to live truly in the moment, means living moments within boundaries. There is a delicate balance between embracing and experiencing all life has to offer and just being stupid.
Consider this: We all know that a moment lost, is a moment wasted. But have you ever stopped to think, that a moment abused, is setting you up to WASTE another moment? When we’re foolish or selfish or in other ways sinful in our moments, we hurt people. We can hurt ourselves! Then we have to spend a lot of time cleaning up the mess. What’s the point of that? Living properly in the moment should never cause harm and never leave us in regret. It should leave us with great satisfaction!
Casting Out Fear
So, God wants us to live in today, to live in the moment, but I’m scared! What do I do?
In my last weeks in London, I had nothing to lose. No one could abandon me, break my heart. I had no future expectations, nothing I could mess up; I was leaving! It made me fearless.
The fear of rejection and abandonment has been a huge issue for me in the last two years, as I’ve mourned the loss of a particular friendship. This loss was on the tail of another friend dying and many moving away. I didn’t want to EVER open up again because it hurt too much. I didn’t want to take a chance in anything, because I was scared of messing up my life.
A friend of mine in London helped me realize that these fears were keeping me from living my life. He shared with me an interesting quote from CS Lewis (below). I realized my fear was keeping me from all God had for me, because my fear was altering my behavior.
"The pain now is part of the happiness then. We can't have the happiness of yesterday without the pain of today. That's the deal." CS Lewis
We can play it safe. We can find a way to stay disengaged just enough, to protect ourselves from future hurts. Problem is, then we limit what we can do, be, and experience today. We will never be able to achieve our fullest potential, mind blowing experiences and relationships, if we play it safe. I don’t want to play it safe any more.
How to Create Great Moments
There are no set formulas to live in and make the most of moments. Yet in my time in London, I did two things consistently that freed me to maximize moments and embrace all of life:
1. I kept God in the center, always.
I look back on London with no regrets, because each step I walked with God. I made it a priority to worship, pray, read scripture and fellowship with other believers when home. When it was hard, I asked God, and friends, how I might be creative to stay connected to Jesus. When I wrestled with sin, I asked friends to hold me accountable. I stayed close to the vine.
"I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5
God was the director of my moments. I wanted to live in his will and asked him regularly what to do or say in given situations. I knew his plan was better than mine. He had great moments prepared for me, if I’d just listen and obey. I asked him to help me see moments and help me savor them. I wasn’t always on my A-game, but generally, when I was told to act, I acted. I took the adventure; I had the conversation. And when I was told to wait, I was still. I trusted Him and held back. I kept my mouth shut. God honored this… and I have so much to show for it!
I was in the right mindset, so I was in the right moments! I want to always live like this!
Obviously this principle is critical for the Christ-follower. However, even if you do not have a personal relationship with Christ, you can extrapolate a method from this. Ask your self these questions: Who am I? What do I value? What character traits is it important I portray? What do I want others to be able to say about me? What makes me pleased with myself? What behavior has left me in discontent, embarrassment, and disappointment before?
If you are well a tune to who you are and how you want to live, you will make choices accordingly, even in the moment. But if you don’t, or if when analyzing this, you find yourself to be more selfish or of ill repute than you believed, you’re setting yourself up for messy and hurtful moments.
2. I was freed up to take chances and stretched myself.
Oh, there were so many examples of this! God would put amazing opportunities in front of me and I had a choice. I could LEAP out of my comfort zone or I could play it safe.
First thing I want to note though, as that I was freed up to take chances. Before I left for London, I was miserable. I was crazy busy and yet, felt empty and frustrated. Missing a social event felt uncomfortable and saying no to a ministry seemed wrong. I couldn’t see that I was wasting my time and energy on activities and people God never intended. I wasn't freed up to even SEE the moments God might have for me.
God took me to London to clear my plate. I could start over, be more selective in my commitments and my relationships. I could listen to God’s voice and could be spontaneous. I could leap!
I went to Portugal by myself and had the most amazing five days in recent history. I learned so much about myself and God. I relied on him and grew my faith exponentially. Not to mention, I saw so much cool stuff and met some really neat people. I almost didn't go out of fear - But what a blessing that I did!
In England, I explored everything, from new churches, to new pubs (yes, pubs), to parks and monuments. I’d take adventures by myself or collect others to go along. These created even more opportunity to see the world through new eyes.
I had what seemed like a MILLION conversations about what Christ meant to me…and I almost NEVER was the one to bring it up. I was given all sorts of opportunities to glorify Him and talk about the differences he’s made in my life. I didn’t chicken out for fear of not fitting in. I was obedient and God really used me in the lives of others. I made a difference for the Kingdom.
Challenge
So… Where are you holding back? Do you need to clear your plate a bit? Do you need to get more in touch with your center? Or is just time to do some leaping?
Lord Jesus, I pray you help all of us to live in the moment, REALLY in the moment. Help us to discern what that means, day to day. Let us act in so that we will have no regrets, moments lost or moments of mistake. Help us to see who we are and what moments you have for us. In our moments, may we always glorify you and bless others, while we experience, learn and grow. Grant us discernment, when to leap and when to be still. Protect us from our own selfishness; may living our moments never harm another. Break down our walls, so we can live without fear and not miss one thing. AMEN!
What is Living in the Moment?
This is the abundant life: to live life to the full.
My most treasured lesson from my last weeks in London is what joy is found in living in the moment. I knew my time in London was short, time I’d never get back, so I met new people, experienced new things, had fun, made a lot of memories and through it all, learned a great deal.
This blog is the start of a series on the abundant life… what it means, what’s keeping us from it, and how to bring it back. For those of you that are followers of Christ, you know this starts with Him and I’ll express what he’s been teaching me about it. For those of you that might be reading my blogs for the first time, you’ll find that even though the basis of my writing is my faith, of which you may hold different belief, there still may be valuable principles for you.
My last month in London, I took a lot of chances. I opened my heart and my mind. I was bold, care free. And though there was even hurt, I regret not one thing. Why don’t I live this way every single day of my life? Two reasons: I don’t feel I have the right… and I’m scared.
I always thought living in the moment a secular concept and one of which Christians should be weary. Scripture says that’s not the case at all! God wants us to live in today. He doesn’t want us endlessly licking our past wounds. He doesn’t want us meticulously focused on preparing for tomorrow. God wants us to embrace what he has for us today, right in this moment.
“This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24
“Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:34
Discerning Moments
Hmmm… What about discernment? Does this mean we just throw caution to the wind?
By definition, living in the moment is about spontaneity and freedom. This isn’t negated in the Christian life. God has given us great freedoms and isn’t inherently against spontaneity. Ironically however, the ability to live truly in the moment, means living moments within boundaries. There is a delicate balance between embracing and experiencing all life has to offer and just being stupid.
Consider this: We all know that a moment lost, is a moment wasted. But have you ever stopped to think, that a moment abused, is setting you up to WASTE another moment? When we’re foolish or selfish or in other ways sinful in our moments, we hurt people. We can hurt ourselves! Then we have to spend a lot of time cleaning up the mess. What’s the point of that? Living properly in the moment should never cause harm and never leave us in regret. It should leave us with great satisfaction!
Casting Out Fear
So, God wants us to live in today, to live in the moment, but I’m scared! What do I do?
In my last weeks in London, I had nothing to lose. No one could abandon me, break my heart. I had no future expectations, nothing I could mess up; I was leaving! It made me fearless.
The fear of rejection and abandonment has been a huge issue for me in the last two years, as I’ve mourned the loss of a particular friendship. This loss was on the tail of another friend dying and many moving away. I didn’t want to EVER open up again because it hurt too much. I didn’t want to take a chance in anything, because I was scared of messing up my life.
A friend of mine in London helped me realize that these fears were keeping me from living my life. He shared with me an interesting quote from CS Lewis (below). I realized my fear was keeping me from all God had for me, because my fear was altering my behavior.
"The pain now is part of the happiness then. We can't have the happiness of yesterday without the pain of today. That's the deal." CS Lewis
We can play it safe. We can find a way to stay disengaged just enough, to protect ourselves from future hurts. Problem is, then we limit what we can do, be, and experience today. We will never be able to achieve our fullest potential, mind blowing experiences and relationships, if we play it safe. I don’t want to play it safe any more.
How to Create Great Moments
There are no set formulas to live in and make the most of moments. Yet in my time in London, I did two things consistently that freed me to maximize moments and embrace all of life:
1. I kept God in the center, always.
I look back on London with no regrets, because each step I walked with God. I made it a priority to worship, pray, read scripture and fellowship with other believers when home. When it was hard, I asked God, and friends, how I might be creative to stay connected to Jesus. When I wrestled with sin, I asked friends to hold me accountable. I stayed close to the vine.
"I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5
God was the director of my moments. I wanted to live in his will and asked him regularly what to do or say in given situations. I knew his plan was better than mine. He had great moments prepared for me, if I’d just listen and obey. I asked him to help me see moments and help me savor them. I wasn’t always on my A-game, but generally, when I was told to act, I acted. I took the adventure; I had the conversation. And when I was told to wait, I was still. I trusted Him and held back. I kept my mouth shut. God honored this… and I have so much to show for it!
I was in the right mindset, so I was in the right moments! I want to always live like this!
Obviously this principle is critical for the Christ-follower. However, even if you do not have a personal relationship with Christ, you can extrapolate a method from this. Ask your self these questions: Who am I? What do I value? What character traits is it important I portray? What do I want others to be able to say about me? What makes me pleased with myself? What behavior has left me in discontent, embarrassment, and disappointment before?
If you are well a tune to who you are and how you want to live, you will make choices accordingly, even in the moment. But if you don’t, or if when analyzing this, you find yourself to be more selfish or of ill repute than you believed, you’re setting yourself up for messy and hurtful moments.
2. I was freed up to take chances and stretched myself.
Oh, there were so many examples of this! God would put amazing opportunities in front of me and I had a choice. I could LEAP out of my comfort zone or I could play it safe.
First thing I want to note though, as that I was freed up to take chances. Before I left for London, I was miserable. I was crazy busy and yet, felt empty and frustrated. Missing a social event felt uncomfortable and saying no to a ministry seemed wrong. I couldn’t see that I was wasting my time and energy on activities and people God never intended. I wasn't freed up to even SEE the moments God might have for me.
God took me to London to clear my plate. I could start over, be more selective in my commitments and my relationships. I could listen to God’s voice and could be spontaneous. I could leap!
I went to Portugal by myself and had the most amazing five days in recent history. I learned so much about myself and God. I relied on him and grew my faith exponentially. Not to mention, I saw so much cool stuff and met some really neat people. I almost didn't go out of fear - But what a blessing that I did!
In England, I explored everything, from new churches, to new pubs (yes, pubs), to parks and monuments. I’d take adventures by myself or collect others to go along. These created even more opportunity to see the world through new eyes.
I had what seemed like a MILLION conversations about what Christ meant to me…and I almost NEVER was the one to bring it up. I was given all sorts of opportunities to glorify Him and talk about the differences he’s made in my life. I didn’t chicken out for fear of not fitting in. I was obedient and God really used me in the lives of others. I made a difference for the Kingdom.
Challenge
So… Where are you holding back? Do you need to clear your plate a bit? Do you need to get more in touch with your center? Or is just time to do some leaping?
Lord Jesus, I pray you help all of us to live in the moment, REALLY in the moment. Help us to discern what that means, day to day. Let us act in so that we will have no regrets, moments lost or moments of mistake. Help us to see who we are and what moments you have for us. In our moments, may we always glorify you and bless others, while we experience, learn and grow. Grant us discernment, when to leap and when to be still. Protect us from our own selfishness; may living our moments never harm another. Break down our walls, so we can live without fear and not miss one thing. AMEN!
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