Windows of Hope

THE GREATEST OF THESE IS LOVE

2012-02-14T10:33:00.000-05:00

1 Corinthians 13:13 says, “And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.”

“Grandma, look what I made you.” Caleb handed me a perfectly cut, neatly colored square. As I took the masterpiece, Caleb received a hug and praise, bragging on his creative efforts and super intelligence. Suddenly, a little voice piped up, “I make for you too, Grandma.” I looked down at Nathan who was offering his “masterpiece;” scribbles on torn/cut pieces of paper. He, of course, received the same hugs and praise as his older brother with an extra squeeze. My heart is so full as I look at a folder full of grandchildren “artwork” and an envelope full of torn scraps of paper. They will never win awards or be auctioned at Christies for millions but to me they are priceless. They represent concentrated efforts to return the love they have received back to Grandma. My grandchildren have every confidence that when they offer their expressions of love they will be received with excitement, hugs and accolades. There is no fear that I will laugh, deride their efforts or shower them with condemnation; no, they are secure in Grandma’s love for them.

Oh the freedom I would enjoy if, like my grandchildren, I would learn to trust God’s great love for me. 1 John 4:18 reminds us that “Perfect love casts out all fear.” Yet as adults we allow fear to put up a wall shielding us from the perfect love of God. The fear of “not being good enough”, failure, condemnation, rejection and all the other negative experiences we have had with “imperfect” love. If only I could catch a vision of the heart of God as I present my little torn pieces of paper to Him, confident in His love. If I could understand that my “mess-ups” are never met with condemnation but lovingly, He gently takes my hand, corrects my steps and guides me safely to the right path. If I could only believe that “He will never leave me or forsake me” maybe I wouldn’t find it necessary to test the validity of the statement by “living on the edge.”

My grandchildren aren’t concerned with how fat or skinny I am, whether my hair is fixed perfectly and my clothes are just right, if I live in a big house or if everything is in its place, all they care about is the perfect love and the hugs they are sure to receive at Grandma’s House. I’m not so concerned with the gifts and the blessings that God showers down on me daily, but I crave the feel of being held in His Everlasting Arms. I seek to hear the love He whispers in my ear as I reach out to grasp the gentle hand that guides me every day because I am confident that HE LOVES ME.

“Oh love of God, how rich and pure, how measureless and strong. It shall forevermore endure-- the saint’s and angel’s song.”

FORGIVENESS OR PERMISSION?

2012-02-08T08:27:00.002-05:00

She skipped blissfully into life. A whole new world of adventure awaited her, far removed from the cloistered lifestyle of her childhood. Besides, she was confident that her Mother’s prayers would follow her all the days of her life; they did! “The world was her oyster (Shakespeare);” she embraced it! “Life is too important to be taken seriously (Oscar Wilde);” she laughed! “Life may not be the party we hoped for, but while we are here we might as well dance (anon);” she danced! Her motto became, “It’s easier to ask for forgiveness than permission (G. Hopper);” but it wasn’t! There would be plenty of time to consider God when she was old, but there wouldn’t! The morning after the last party never came.

There have been many variations to U.S. Navy Rear Admiral Grace Hopper’s phrase, “It’s easier to ask forgiveness than it is to get permission,” but they all have the same meaning rooted in self. However it is worded, the speaker is declaring, “I will do it my way without regard to authority.” It started with Lucifer. He wasn’t satisfied just being the archangel God had created; oh no, he had much more ambitious ideas. Isaiah 14:13-14 records that Lucifer did it his way, “For you have said in your heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also on the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High.” Of course, it didn’t stop with Lucifer. Satan tells Eve, if you eat of the fruit, “you will not surely die” or to paraphrase, “go ahead, you can ask forgiveness later.” Eve discovered as Lucifer had previously, as Sampson, David, Jonah, Ananias and Sapphira did later along with everyone throughout history who decided to forego permission, there are consequences to “doing it my way.” Lucifer will be cast into the pit, Eve was put out of the Garden, Sampson lost his eye sight and ultimately his life, David lost a child, Jonah ended up in belly of a fish and Ananias and Sapphira paid with their lives for embracing the “Self-philosophy.”

I was introduced to the phrase, “I would rather ask forgiveness than permission,” by an employee under my supervision. It didn’t warm my employer’s heart just as it doesn’t warm the heart of God. You see, I was paying for 8 hours of my employee’s time every day. Although, I was always ready to hand out forgiveness for mistakes, I expected my instructions to be followed for the success of the company. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 says “Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” Acts 20:28 tells us a very high price was paid for you and me; “He purchased with His own blood.” Not only is God our creator but He shed His own blood to redeem us; He has a right to every area of our life and to expect us to ask permission. He desires our success.

Yes we serve a God who is rich in mercy and ready to forgive but forgiveness doesn’t remove the consequences of our actions. How beautiful life can be when we “get permission” or seek the Will of God before we act. God has a life of blessing planned for you, don’t trample it underfoot in your haste to “experience life” and “do it your way.”

DINING IN EGYPT

2012-02-05T23:31:00.000-05:00

I was swimming downstream, running on level ground, flying high, life was good and I was blessed. Oh sure, there were battles, but God was my champion and we always won. My steps were light and every day I could sing, “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake.” Even the “Valley of the Shadow of Death,” which I had never walked through or even been near, held no fear for me, because God had promised to always be near. “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;” could life get any better? Not only was God supplying my needs and guiding my steps but now He was going to show my enemies how highly He favored me. Mercy and goodness were following me and my cup was definitely filled to the max. Suddenly, out of nowhere, the current changed, my paddle broke, a mountain rose up and the engine died. The enemy was advancing and I felt like a one-woman army. Lord, where was that table you were preparing for me?

The account of Joseph has been used numerous times as an example of the faithfulness of God and the perseverance and patience, on our part, as we wait for the fulfillment of God-given dreams. Joseph was thrown in a pit and sentenced to prison before he was brought to the palace. Finally the dreams God had given him as a young man would come to pass. This wasn’t the way he had pictured it so many years ago. Perhaps Joseph had imagined that he would become a wealthy man in his community, live in a beautiful mansion on a hillside surrounded by friends and family; admired by all. His father, mother, and brothers would all come seeking his advice and benevolence which he would graciously bestow upon them at their humble petition. No, it definitely was not as he had envisioned it. Yes, he was wealthy and lived in a beautiful home but it was not in his beloved homeland. Joseph was far away from his family and friends; alone in “enemy” territory. According to Genesis, Pharaoh promoted Joseph to rule over the kingdom, under him, with the specific task of preparing for the coming famine. During the seven years of plenty, Joseph stored one fifth of the harvest. The years of plenty came to an end and the famine began, as Joseph had foretold in Genesis 41:31, “but after them seven years of famine will arise, and all the plenty will be forgotten in the land of Egypt; and the famine will deplete the land.”

How many times have we been enjoying smooth sailing and abundant blessing, when up pops a storm or a trial that seems to totally erase the memories of the good times from our mind. If we’ve been just cruising through the times of plenty, we may find ourselves hungry with nothing in the storehouse during our famine. If, as Joseph did, we are praying, laboring, glorifying God and storing up during the years of blessing there will be something from which to draw during the lean times. Genesis 41: 53-54 tells us, “Then the seven years of plenty which were in the land of Egypt ended, and the seven years of famine began to come, as Joseph had said. The famine was in all lands, but in all the land of Egypt there was bread.”

One of the striking things about this account of God’s provision is that God did not provide for His people in the Land of Israel; GOD PROVIDED THE BREAD IN EGYPT. He “Prepared a table for His people in the presence of their enemies.” God doesn’t always get us out of the trial or stop the storm to show His faithfulness. Many times He prepares a table and provides bread right in the middle of Egypt. Once again I read Psalms 23 but this time verse 5 takes on a whole new meaning, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over.” And I realize His goodness and mercy has been following me through the darkness and I am DINING IN EGYPT.

STEP ASIDE? BUT GOD...........

2012-02-03T14:09:00.000-05:00

“What do you mean; I don’t get to lead the people into the Promise Land? You do understand that I was the one who spent the sleepless nights, worrying when they wouldn’t obey. It was me, God that had to climb the mountain, TWICE, to get instructions on how they should behave. And I would like to remind you, that you wanted to destroy them; just wipe them right off the face of the earth, but I pleaded with you, God, to spare their lives. I even offered my own life in place of their sorry carcasses. I have traveled through the wilderness with them for 40 years, when we could have crossed over after about 39. I’ve listened to their whining and complaining, rejoiced over each new birth, helped them bury their loved ones and counseled them endlessly to solve their petty little problems and now you are telling me that Joshua gets to march triumphantly into the Promise Land? Why if it wasn’t for me, Joshua would have grown up a slave in Egypt. You really want me to step down, let go and let Joshua lead them to the next level?” Now the Bible doesn’t record that this conversation actually took place but what if you or I had been Moses? Would we have been so willing to let go of the ministry we had labored so diligently to build, just as God was ready to take it to the next level? Just when the Promise Land was in sight?

1 Corinthians 12:11 But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills. We start out so humbly, just thankful for the privilege of being called; as time marches on the ministry begins to define us and we forget that it is God that calls and determines the times and seasons of our life. There are several examples, in the Bible, of great men who were called for a season, then stepped aside so that the next part of God’s plan could be fulfilled. Of course, Moses had to relinquish his leadership to Joshua, who God raised up to lead the Children of Israel to the prize. David had to transfer his dream of building a great temple to his son, Solomon because that was God’s plan. John the Baptist was born to be the forerunner of Jesus Christ. In his words, according to John 3:30, “He must increase but I must decrease.”

God was not impressed that Moses was a great leader; He had called him to lead. God was impressed with Moses’ humility. Numbers 12:3 records, “Now the man Moses was very humble, more than all men who were on the face of the earth.” God was not impressed that David was the King of Israel; He had anointed him to be king. He wasn’t impressed by the many songs he wrote; God gave him the songs. God was impressed by David’s love and awe for Him and his willingness to recognize that God was creator, provider, his rock and Savior. Psalms 121:1 “I will lift up my eyes to the hills—From whence comes my help? 2 My help comes from the LORD, Who made heaven and earth.” Finally, God was not even impressed that Paul was an Apostle. It was God that struck him down then raised him up to become a great Apostle. He wasn’t impressed with Paul’s education, his missionary travels or the fact that he wrote most of the New Testament. God was impressed that Paul had kept the faith and finished the course. 2 Timothy 4:7 “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

Ministry does not make us important to God; we are important to God because He created us, washed us in His precious blood and filled us with His Spirit. God is not impressed with our titles or our accomplishments; only with our faithfulness to His will and His plan. There comes a time in each ministry when it is time to let go and let God begin the ‘next phase” with the next leader. It may be gut-wrenching to let go until you realize that God has a “next phase” for you also. When we realize that our identity is found in Jesus Christ and not the ministry He has called us to or the title that has been bestowed upon us, it becomes a blessing to reach forward, place the baton in our teammate’s hand and let go as they move forward.

LORD, HELP THE PASTOR; WE NEED REVIVAL

2012-01-22T17:18:00.000-05:00

“Dear Lord, PLEASE, either change these people or change the situation, I can’t take it anymore.” Have you ever prayed this prayer over someone in your life that is a constant thorn in your side and has just gotten on your “last nerve?” It maybe your neighbor, a co-worker, husband or a long-time friend that you can see needs a complete overhaul. Perhaps your pastor is your prayer focus; he could use a little more fire in his sermons, the worship leader would benefit from a few hours seeking God for the right songs and the pastor’s wife just hasn’t been as warm and caring as she should. “Actually, Lord, our church needs a major REVIVAL, please help the Pastor.” If this is your perception, the most dangerous thing you can do right now is PRAY.

When it comes to INTERCESSION, the only prayer God hears is the prayer that involves a blessing on the other person. God is really not open to “GET EM” prayers. He is much more concerned with your heart and your attitude, right now, than He is with your neighbor’s. OK, before you get all self-righteous about God’s concern for your neighbor, consider that your neighbor, pastor, worship leader or pastor’s wife may be praying the same prayer in regards to you. It is very dangerous to pray with this mindset because this is when God always begin an operation of PAINFUL PROBING.

Every time I begin to pray about a problem I see in someone else’s life, God gives me an opportunity to change my own life. There have been times, I’m not quite ready to change and so I cut my prayer time short and continue to fuss and fume. We serve a relentless God, when it comes to creating a clean heart in us. The next time I kneel to pray, God is patiently waiting to dig at the roots of the real problem; my perception and attitude. When I finally surrender and allow Him to pull a few weeds and brush away a few dust bunnies I missed, my focus and prayer changes. Suddenly, I realize my neighbor is doing the best she can with her situation, the Pastor becomes so anointed, preaching messages that produce unexpected insight and the worship leader has chosen just the right songs to lead us to the Throne of Grace. The most amazing thing is that I find myself in a church that is “smack dab” in the middle of revival.

So if you are still convinced God really needs to change the people in your life and you are happy with yourself, just the way you are, DON'T pray for revival. But if you desire to be everything God desires you to become, than you can pray Psalms 51:1-2, 10, “Have mercy upon me, O God, according to Your loving kindness; according to the multitude of Your tender mercies, blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin…. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.” I guarantee, if you sincerely pray this prayer and allow God to finish what He started IN YOU, the Pastor will receive help and the church will experience revival.

THE SONG IS REALLY NEVER FAR AWAY

2012-01-07T10:11:00.000-05:00

Psalms 40:3 and he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD.

The song became a part of me when I was just a little girl. Over the years it took root in the deepest part of my heart. As I nurtured and cared for the song, it matured and blossomed until one day the blossom was plucked and trampled, the stem shriveled and the roots became dry; my song was in danger of being forgotten or even worse, dying. I still loved God, I knew He was continuing to walk by my side, I had the comforting assurance of salvation, but the “spirit of heaviness” had quieted my song. I had entered an unfamiliar place in my life, unsure of even my identity. I now understood the Israelites statement in Psalms 137: 1, 2, & 4. “By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down, yea, we wept, when we remembered Zion. 2We hanged our harps upon the willows in the midst thereof. 4How shall we sing the Lord's song in a strange land? I was in a strange land, how could I continue to sing the Lord’s song? I couldn’t even remember the words.

For many years, Steve and I had been in ministry, mostly pastoring small, start-up churches. It was hard work, exhausting and trying at times, but it was the Song of My Heart. After all the years of working with few resources, wearing a different hat to fulfill the current need and pouring our lives into people who often opted for the bigger, program-rich church, we were so excited when God opened the door to pastor an established church. My song was never far from bursting forth with a joyful melody. I loved being a Pastor’s Wife. I loved sharing in the success of our congregation, crying with them as I shared their burdens, praying for them daily, and blessing them with little things I picked up with them in mind. Suddenly, we were thrust from the position that we knew God had placed us in. I felt as if the beautiful flower of my song had been ruthlessly pulled off the stem and trampled underfoot. Who was I? I had no role in the familiar life I had lived for so long. I found it hard to pray. Who should I pray for? How should I pray? Many days my devotion time was spent with just tears, no sound. Other days, it was spent in thanksgiving but with a joyless voice. Most of the time I went through the motions because it was the only lifeline to my song as the smothering spirit of heaviness settled over me. Thank God the story isn’t over and the song was really never far away.

As I continued to “go through the motions,” the thanksgiving turned into praise. A quote from Pastor Joel Chipman sums up this metamorphosis so well, “You can’t wear the coat of the Spirit of Heaviness at the same time you wear the Garment of Praise.” What I thought was “going through the motions” was actually God restoring my song. The many tears were being used to water and strengthen the wounded roots of my song. God was using the words of thanksgiving to become new and tender sprouts that would once again burst forth into joyful song at just the right time. As God softly sang the song He had put in my heart so many years ago, I realized exactly who I was and always will be; His child, His chosen vessel. The only thing missing from all the things I loved about being a pastor’s wife is the title. I can still rejoice in other’s successes, there will always be someone to encourage along the journey, I can always find a sister who needs her day brightened by a little gift selected with her in mind and there will always be many needs to bring before God in prayer.

CS Lewis said, “A friend is someone who knows the song in your heart and can sing it back to you when you have forgotten the words.” My song was never really far away because I never let go of the Giver of the song. I may have temporarily forgotten the words and some of the words have changed but, my best friend, Jesus was always right by my side softly humming the tune as He carried me through the storm. If you feel you have lost your song or maybe it hasn’t been sung in so long you’ve forgotten the words, find a quiet place to get in touch with the one who knows your heart. God put the song there, He knows the words and He will sing them back to you. The song is never really far away.

GOD'S WILL FOR 2012

2012-01-02T10:10:00.002-05:00

My greatest desire, for this year, is to seek, find, and follow the will of God. I know that I am not alone, but it is the desire of every serious, dedicated Child of God. Now comes the hard part; transforming the desire into reality. The “seeking” and the “following” are the easy parts of the process. The “finding,” however, can become an almost insurmountable roadblock.

I know that God has this AMAZING plan that uses me to do AMAZING things so I look for an AMAZING door to open. I fear that many times have I missed all the small but important steps God was trying to lead me down because I was waiting for the AMAZING event that would shine the light on my destiny. Now I have been at the seeking phase for enough New Year beginnings to know that the best place to start is on my knees and in the written Word of God.

I love the way God sifts through all my complicated, lofty thoughts and makes the process so simple. Last year as I prayed for more faith, God showed me that there was nothing wrong with the AMOUNT of my faith. Actually, He had provided me with the just the exact measure of faith I required. What I really needed was to use that faith to believe that God was in control and allow Him to choose the outcome and finish the work. Back to the Will of God….If you truly SEEK Him and LISTEN to His voice, He will not leave you hanging. The still, small voice of God took me to 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Rejoice always, ¹⁷ pray without ceasing, ¹⁸ in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

I love succinct, simplicity of the commands of God.

How do I fulfill the Law of God? Matthew 22:37-40, “Jesus said to him, you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. ³⁸This is the first and great commandment. ³⁹ And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. ⁴⁰ On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.”

How do I receive the Desires of My Heart? Psalm 37:4 “Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart.”

What is the Will of God for 2012? 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Rejoice always, ¹⁷ pray without ceasing, ¹⁸ in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

So, I enter 2012 with the peace of God in my heart, knowing His will for this year; REJOICE, PRAY, GIVE THANKS. I will REJOICE in the God of my Salvation, PRAY over each situation and GIVE THANKS for God’s provision in my life. Join me and enjoy a Blessed 2012.

2011 REFLECTIONS; WHAT COULD HAVE BEEN; WHAT WAS; WHAT IS TO COME

2011-12-28T10:39:00.005-05:00

The worn calendar of 2011 has come to the end of its usefulness; there are no more pages to be turned and only 3 more days to mark off. It is time for reflection on “What could have been; what was, and what is to come.”

It really began December 31, 2010, celebrating with many people I love and had come to love. Yes, where else? CHURCH!!! I love being in a church service on New Year’s Eve. It is so joyful, so full of promise. There is always great food, fellowship and so much love; this service was all that and more. The music was beautiful; the worship dynamic, Steve preached a “forward-looking” sermon and presented the agenda for the coming year. The power of God fell in the service, people were renewed in the Spirit and we had the general feeling that “God was well pleased.” My humanness reflects and says, “If only it had ended there,” but my spirit man understands I still need some “testing and proving.”

I hear so many people expressing how happy they will be to wave goodbye to 2011 and welcome 2012 as the clock strikes midnight. Really, does a minute in time or a page on a calendar make the difference? Or is it all the experiences over the last 525,600 minutes of 2011 that will carry you into 2012 with a different perspective.

Once again in human terms, 2011 was not one of my best years. It was full of tears, brokenhearted nights, unbelievable stress, depression, previously, unexperienced health problems, endless hours on my knees, answered and unanswered questions. In spiritual terms, however, 2011 was a GREAT year, full of blessing and amazing encounters with God. It is not the EXPERIENCE that makes the difference; it is how you “COME OUT” on the other side of the experience. What did I learn? How did I handle the situation? Have I been changed into the person God needs me to be? Or, am I bitter? Do I blame everyone including God? Have I become vindictive? Will I remain unchanged and have to go through the “fire” again?

Reflections on what I have learned in 2011

When God says, “I will never leave you or forsake you,” He means it. The distance between you and God can increase only if you move away.

Always go into the year with anticipation and dreams but be willing to allow God to shape, mold and change the dream. Realize that there was nothing wrong with your dream; it may remain unfulfilled due to timing, outside circumstances or uncooperativeness.

Remain soft and pliable in the Master’s Hands. It may be tempting to put up a shell to avoid being hurt again but nothing hurts worse than God breaking through the shell to get to our heart.

Faith is not just asking, believing it hard enough, and then receiving it. Faith is praying about the situation, believing that God is well able, accepting that the outcome is in God’s hands, and LEAVING it there.

And finally My Friends; Trust in the promises of God; Ask Him to show you everything He is trying to teach you in the midst of the storm; Rest in His peace; and Allow Him to choose the ending blessing.

As the clock strikes midnight, closing out a year of unbelievable heartache and unbelievable blessing, I carry a resolve into 2012. I resolve to enjoy every moment, whether through laughter or tears, knowing God is working. I resolve to let the Love of God shine brighter through my life than ever before as I walk out in a dark world. I resolve to seek after, listen to and follow as God leads me down the path He has prepared for me to walk in. I resolve to LAUGH LOUDER, JUMP HIGHER and PRAISE MORE FERVENTLY than I did in 2011.

I HAVEN'T WALKED THIS WAY BEFORE

2011-11-15T09:55:00.000-05:00

During the last 3 months. I have experienced several things in my life I had never before experienced. The stress and pressure has been tremendous and at times debilitating. Through it all, God has been an ever present help. Because of the stress and strain, I feel I have temporarily lost my writing voice. I am filing notes and I know that God will restore it at the proper time. Please pray for Steve and I as we relocate and begin to walk down a totally new and unfamiliar road.

With God's help, I will begin to write again. I know it is in there fighting to come out. I love you all my readers. God's richest blessings to all of you.

WHEN THE DREAM IS ALIVE AFTER HOPE HAS DIED

2011-10-08T10:24:00.002-04:00

Throughout our lifetime we dream of what we can accomplish, the things we will acquire and who we will share our life with. Our ability to dream never completely goes away, although the dreams may mature or be replaced with more realistic expectations. As a little girl, I wanted to be a bride and have babies just like my mom. During a revival, I dreamed of being an evangelist’s wife, wearing high heels and playing an accordion. After attending my first gospel concert, I wanted to be a professional singer and tour the United States, performing nightly for my adoring fans. At eighteen I married prince charming, wore the high heels, had the babies and sang in the church choir. Some of my dreams have been fulfilled in ways I could not have imagined, others took their place in the distant past of a little girl’s fantasy, and a few of the dreams lingered in the future still waiting to be realized. What do you do when you wake one day with a living, breathing dream but recognize that the hope of bringing it to fruition has died?

In the Bible we read the story of David. We are first introduced to the Little Shepherd Boy, David. He tended his father’s sheep, played music on his harp and sang songs praising God. Every child knows the story of David coming against Goliath with a simple sling, five stones and his faith in God. As he became a man and won many battles for Israel, we learn that he was anointed King of Israel. He triumphed, he sinned, he repented, he wrote Psalms to the Lord and danced before the ark as it was carried back to its rightful place. God blessed David throughout his life, and promised that his house would be established forever. It would appear that every desire of his heart had been fulfilled, but there was one dream that David would never live to see accomplished. The dream was alive but for David, hope had died.

In 1 Chronicles 17, we read about David’s dream; “Now it came to pass, as David sat in his house, that David said to Nathan the prophet, Lo, I dwell in an house of cedars, but the ark of the covenant of the LORD remains under curtains.” David had a dream of building a house of worship to the Lord. A house that would hold the Ark of the Covenant; a house that would honor the God that he loved and for whom he had written some many Psalms of praise; a house that would bring attention to the God of Israel. Nathan, the prophet, agreed that it was a wonderful idea. 1 Chronicles 17:2 says “Then Nathan said unto David, Do all that is in thine heart; for God is with thee. What could possibly be wrong with this desire to honor God? In verse 4, God tells Nathan, “Go and tell David my servant, Thus saith the LORD, Thou shall not build me a house to dwell in.” For David, hope of building a magnificent house to glorify God had died. He would not live to see the Glory of God fill the temple at the dedication service, it would never be called, “David’s Temple,” but the dream was not yet dead. In 1 Kings 5:5, we learn that God told David, “Thy son, whom I will set upon thy throne in thy room, he shall build a house unto my name.”

What did David do when he finally realized that the hope of accomplishing what he had dreamed of was dead? Did he get angry, give up on God, or stop being King? No, we find that David continued being king and he continued to trust God for victory over the enemy. Instead of feeling sorry for himself, he began to dedicate the spoils of war to God and amass many of the materials that would be used in building the temple, its furniture and vessels.

There are times in our lives that we must face the reality that a dream is never going to develop as we had envisioned and hope dies. Don’t give up; perhaps you were given the dream for a purpose. What if your purpose all along was to be the “David” to “Solomon” in God’s plan? Perhaps that youthful dream of being a professional ballplayer was given to you so that you would coach the little league team of the next all-star pitcher. The exalted dream of “Making a difference in the world” took a course beyond your wildest imagination and you made a difference by nurturing and raising the little boy or girl who would go on to preach the gospel to a people who had never heard of Jesus. The dream of pastoring a mega church wasn’t just a pipe dream, you were given the dream to be the planter or the waterer and God will give the increase to the next generation. Next time you use that hairbrush as a microphone, remember, your voice was always meant to glorify God rather than be the next American Idol.

1 Corinthians 3:6-8 “I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. 7So then neither is he that plants anything, neither he that waters; but God that gives the increase. 8Now he that plants and he that waters are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labor. “You may not see the completion of the dream but God may use you to be an important component of the end product. Maybe you will be the one that proposes the idea, or the one that assembles the materials or people. The dream may not stand as a living memorial to you and no one may ever even realize that you were the one with the idea, but God put the dream into your heart for a purpose and He will accomplish it in His way; in His time.

MIRACLE BABY SOSHEA BROOKLYN

2011-09-14T19:31:00.001-04:00

This testimony absolutely must be shared. Baby Shea is the daughter of Jon and BreAnna Hedlund and the granddaughter of our friends John and Darlene Soshea of Duluth, MN. As soon as it was posted on FB that Baby Soshea was in trouble, an Army of Prayer Warriors was marshalled around the world to bombard Heaven with nonstop petitions on behalf of Brea and Baby Shea. God is still on the throne and prayer still works. Here is their story.

By BreAnna Hedlund

Baby Shea was born August 30th @ 9:22pm....an emergency c-section! She was born having oxygen deprivation "Birth Hypoxia".......my lil girls heart stopped, had to do chest compressions, and really her outcome did not look well..... she was flown down to Amplatz Hospital within the 6 hour time period to be put on a cooling blanket. Mommy was waking up for surgery and didn't understand why her baby was being taken away. I want to tell you the survival stats....

Up to 62% die or have moderate to severe disabilities
Up to 30% have cerebral palsy
Up to 14% blind
Up to 6% are hearing impaired

My baby girl did not look good but we were going to fight, we were going to try this cooling blanket to hopefully slow down the damage this would have on her...... she was put in hypothermia mode for a full 72 hours... extremely hard for a mother and father to watch. Then after the 3 days she was slowly warmed back up, only to find that she was having a lot of problems. She had an EEG to check and see what all this damage of the oxygen deprivation had on her and if the cooling blanket was able to help at all...... our results were extremely horrific, the doctor called us both to her bed side and said, I do not have good news. Her test came back with EXTREME abnormalities, and we talked about all the things that this meant, horrible. the Doctor said we will run another test on Tuesday but at a max it may improve a little but it is so extremely abnormal I am so sorry to have to tell you....I asked is it possible that it could come back normal and she said I hate to say it but NO. I was crying and couldn't even stand, my baby girl this was not what I wanted to hear.

The next 3 days was long...... watching your lil girl with so many things we could already see that werent normal.... we decided that we were not going to accept this report from the doctors.... i couldn't...i knew a God that could heal my precious angel.... so we had already asked for prayers from around the world and asked for many more.... we had many prayers go up for her.... and for those of you that took the time to do so we are so extremely grateful to you for your prayers.... in these three days we had a prophetic word and vision of her given to us about her healing....and signs and signs of her healing! We wanted to see her healed today, but God knew his timing! The day before her test she still was having a lot of trouble, we weren't seeing any improvements, but continued in our faith! Tuesday came and she had her test, it took longer then the first one, the results took what seemed like forever! Finally the Doctor came to her lil bedside and said "I have amazing news for you guys, the EEG came back completely NORMAL!!!!!!!" How could this happen? I screamed, cried, fell to the ground thank God my husband was there, we really received this miracle that we had prayed and hoped for! Thank you GOD!!!!

We would like to send a special thank you to ALL of our Family for their support, love and visits! With out all of you and God we could not have made it through all this! Thank you for all the prayers, the fasting, and prayer nights that were held....we can not begin to express our gratitude! I want everyone to know that its all your prayers that the Lord heard! :) We want you to know all the texts, calls, facebook messages were a true blessing, we apologize we have been so busy with this we have not had a chance to respond. We appreciate all of you! Love you and we will continue to post her progress, she still has a little ways to go to get out of this but she is a MIRACLE! Thank you dear Lord for our Baby Soshea Brooklyn Hedlund!

HYPOCRITICAL CHANCE OR GLORY TO GOD OPPORTUNITY

2011-09-14T13:55:00.002-04:00

One of the easiest ways to stick a knife in the heart of a professing Christian is to accuse them of being a hypocrite. At one time or another, every Christian has heard the statement, “And you call yourself a Christian!” Sometimes the question is deserved, other times it is just used against us because we tried to do the right thing and it made someone else feel guilty. “Hypocrite” comes from the Greek word, “hypokrites” a stage actor or one who pretends to be what he is not. The church has been accused of being full of hypocrites and when you think about it, where else would they be? A person who does not believe in anything and doesn’t behave as if they believe in anything would never be accused of being a hypocrite and most likely never be found attending church. So, while the church may be full of hypocrites, most of us are just human trying to become more like Jesus.

Once you claim the Name of Jesus and have the courage to open your mouth, profess what you believe and align yourself with the Church, a test will present itself. Now the choice is yours, do you take the chance to be viewed as a hypocrite or is this an opportunity presented by God to give Him glory.

I will never forget an opportunity that came my way, many years ago. I had made a quick run to the neighborhood grocery store and as I unloaded the groceries into the trunk of my car, I noticed the cashier had put a gallon of milk into my cart that I had not purchased. My first thought was, I’m in a hurry, I have two little boys at home so praise God for the blessing and after all I didn’t put it in my cart. But God’s voice came through loud and strong, “you didn’t pay for it, someone else did” and “it isn’t your milk, it belongs to someone else.” I decided to do the right thing and bring glory to God even if no one would ever know. Back into the store I went with the gallon of milk. I gave it back to the cashier and explained that I had not paid for it so it must belong to someone else. She thanked me and as I turned around to go back to my car, I looked up into the eyes of my pastor. You never know who may be watching. There have been other opportunities of receiving too much change, keeping my mouth shut when I wanted to lash out or telling the truth although I knew the outcome would not be in my favor. Have I ever made the wrong choice and took the chance to be a hypocrite? Oh yes, but I would prefer not to talk about them and I have had to repent many times.

I believe that God tests us, not to prove anything to Him but to make us stronger and give us confidence that through the power of the Holy Ghost, we can overcome any obstacle that comes our way. This week I was again presented with the opportunity to act upon what I had professed. In the last month my husband and I have been put through a very hard and hurtful trial. It was not something we asked for because we were only trying to faithfully serve God. I believe that “all things work for the good of them that love the Lord and are the called according to His purpose,” so with my mouth I professed the goodness of God and prayed for blessings upon those that had come against us with falsehoods and indifference to the will of God. It is all fine in theory but sometimes a different story when put to the test. I received word that God was sending someone to bless them this weekend. The feelings of hurt and frustration threatened to overtake me so I did the only thing I knew to do; fall on my knees in prayer. Would I curse, blame and run down the people who had done me wrong and take the hypocritical chance or would I bless, encourage, pray for them and bring glory to God. It took some wrestling back and forth but I chose to be a blessing to others and receive a blessing from God.

Every day you will be presented with choices that will satisfy your flesh or feed your spirit. If you choose to satisfy your flesh you may have to wear the label of Hypocrite but if you choose to feed your spirit and bring Glory to God, you will be blessed and wear the label of Overcomer. Revelations 21:7 He that overcomes shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.

JUST A BAND-AID

2011-09-11T18:58:00.003-04:00

Each of us have had wonderful things occur in our lives, when we want to leap for joy and shout praise at the top of our lungs. Maybe it was the time your husband came home from work with news of a big promotion and raise to match. Perhaps after years of hoping, the test came back positive and it was time to start painting the nursery. It could be signing the papers on your dream house, watching your grandchild do amazing things that you thought were disgusting when your son or daughter did them, a new car, earning a degree or any number of things that make your heart sing for joy. You open up the Word of God and read in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” You are convinced, God is good, His will is full of blessing and you give thanks.

Now we fast forward to an event that drives you to your knees; your husband loses his job, your hopes are shattered and there will be no baby to fill your empty arms, maybe the house is repossessed, the car is totaled or your child has once again broken your heart. You open the Word of God and read in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” Are you still convinced that God is good, can you trust that “all things work for good,” do you still give thanks?

Sunday marked the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks that took place on September 11, 2001. As I watched the 2001 live footage of the towers in flames, people jumping out of windows and heard the stories repeated of heroic acts of bravery, I was instantly transported back to the very moment I learned of the attack. The forgotten memories of horror and grief came flooding back as the tears stream down my face. The names of the thousands that lost their life that day included, without discrimination, fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, husbands, wives, friends, ministers, secretaries, CEO’s, firefighters, policemen and caring citizens. Could anyone find comfort in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you?” Did God still care; if so, where was He; how could any good come from such a hate-filled act, could we still give thanks?

Among the fascinating stories told of that Tuesday morning in September, are the tales of “If not for the Grace of God.” For one person, a car wouldn’t start, another arrived at the corner just as the taxi pulled away, yet another was held up in a traffic jam caused by an auto accident, an alarm clock did not go off, the phone rang just as she opened the door; were they just “lucky” or are these everyday happenings that we never think about unless a tragedy of 9/11 proportions occurs? The story that impacted me this morning was that of a man that had put on a new pair of shoes. As he walked toward the World Trade Center, he realized a blister was forming and he stopped at a drug store to purchase a Band-Aid. Yes, an aggravating blister and the need for a band-aid saved his life that day. I’m sure if this man opened his bible and read 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you,” he suddenly had a clear understanding of its meaning and he gave thanks.

Never again will I grumble at the slow car on the highway in front of me or the traffic light that turns red just as I approach; I will breathe a prayer of thanks when the phone rings at an inconvenient time or I get behind the coupon queen in the grocery line. You and I will probably never know the times we have been saved by the things we viewed as a nuisance. Dear God, please remind me when I start to complain about being late that your Word tells me “In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

IT WAS ENOUGH JUST TO BE YOUR MOM

2011-09-02T19:06:00.001-04:00

I POSTED THIS BLOG IN DECEMBER 2010. AFTER READING POSTS ON FACEBOOK REGARDING STAY-AT-HOME MOMS, I FELT I SHOULD POST IT AGAIN. I AM NOT JUDGING ANY MOTHER THAT MUST WORK OR CHOOSES TO WORK OUTSIDE THE HOME; THESE ARE JUST MY THOUGHTS AND EXPERIENCES.

It is no secret that I am a Facebook junkie. I love keeping up-to-date with friends and family. One of the things that I have avoided getting involved in is the “Mass Group Posts.” To me they are similar to the old “chain letters.” Some even go as far to tell me if I don’t post a certain paragraph, I am denying Christ before the world. Never mind the life I live, it’s all about posting a specific saying. A couple of weeks ago, this particular post caught my eye: “I work 24/7. I'm a MOMMY, I'm a cook, a cleaner, a parent, a teacher, a referee, a nanny, a nurse, a handyman, a maid, a shrink, security & a comforter. I don't get holidays, sick pay, or A DAY off. I work through the day & some of the night, on call at ALL hours. I'm underpaid & overworked. Now tell me that YOUR job is harder than mine! Repost this if you're a great mommy ♥.” I did not repost the item but I couldn’t resist commenting.

I was a full time mommy for 20 years, I never considered myself underpaid. OVERWORKED? Maybe, but I just didn’t consider it in monetary terms. You see, to me, Motherhood was NOT a JOB but a CALLING which I chose to follow. Although this calling did not bring great wealth, it was not without great reward. I will never forget the feel of little arms around my neck and the sound of a tiny voice saying, “Mommy I “wuv” you. What mother hasn’t paused for a few moments just to watch her babies sleeping like angels and wishing she hadn’t said “not right now” so many times that day. There is nothing like seeing 2 little shining faces emerge after a warm bath, snuggling with them in their cozy “jammies” and inhaling that soft baby smell. As they grew older, I loved listening to their funny adventures, discovering the world through their fresh eyes and guiding them through the “teenage jungle.” I have enjoyed being a Mom in every stage of their life. As far as overworked, that is what I bought into when I chose to have kids. They have been worth every sleepless night, every hour lost, and every dollar that I could have been spending on myself.

I know how Mary must have felt when she held Jesus in her arms for the first time. I’ve experienced the overwhelming love that pours from your heart as you rock the tiny helpless little baby. But, did she feel “used” when she knelt at the cross? Did she feel underpaid and overworked when she came to the end of the road with her son? Did Mary complain, “I cooked, cleaned, taught you, dried your tears, washed your clothes, was always there for you and this is the reward I get?” Luke 2:19 tells us, “But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.” Perhaps at the end she reached into her heart for all the sweet memories and murmured through her tears, “It was enough just to be your mom.”

Yes, there were times I was privileged to teach them new things, referee their disagreements, bandage skinned knees, and provide clean clothes and delicious meals. I’m thankful they trusted me enough to take my counsel instead of learning life’s lessons on the playground and that they knew their home was a safe place where they could always be comforted. Being an important part of my sons’ lives as they grew to be men who love God, love their families and still love their mom has been all the pay I required. Steven and Philip, it was enough just to be your mom.

A LITTLE DAMAGE BUT STILL STANDING

2011-08-30T07:04:00.001-04:00

The nonstop coverage of Hurricane Irene began Friday evening. There were hourly updates, pinpointing exactly which city was being pounded at the moment, the projected paths of destruction and estimated arrival times at various cities all along the Eastern Seaboard. By Saturday evening, New York City was at a standstill. Subways and mass transit systems including airports had been shut down and many had evacuated in anticipation of the havoc, Irene was expected to bring with her. Although, the storm weakened as it made its way up the coast and inland, there were still reports of flooding, downed trees and lost lives.

I am always struck by the dedicated reporters. They brave wind, rain, stand on boardwalks watching the crashing waves, covered in sea foam and sand all to bring us the up-to-the minute reports we watch from a distance in the safety of our homes. If I am ever caught in a catastrophic disaster, I’m going to look for the nearest reporter and stick to them like glue because they somehow usually come through the storm unscathed. As I watched the reports Sunday morning, this simple little statement of “hurt but hope,” stood out. The reporter said, “There’s a little damage to the bridge after the storm but it is still standing.” The winds had buffeted, the rain had poured down and the surf had pounded against the bridge, but after the storm passed by, the bridge stood tall against the skyline.

Most times life doesn’t give us warnings of the approaching storm. We don’t have the luxury of a nonstop encouraging word Friday night into Saturday to prepare us for Sunday’s storm. They always seem to come from nowhere and hit us full force with unrelenting fury. Recently, an unexpected hurricane slammed head-on into my life. I had no time to board up the windows and evacuate. No, this was a storm that I would just have to ride out on my knees holding on to the Word of God. The wind blew, the rain fell and the surf pounded against the very foundation of my soul but like the securely fastened reporter, I lashed myself to the Rock until the storm finally died down and calm prevailed. Over the past few days, I have taken the time to access the damage. I’ve nursed some cuts and scrapes, a few bruises are still tender but I can say with all thanksgiving, “There’s a little damage to the bridge after the storm, but I’m still standing.”

You may be going through the worst storm of your life. It may seem at times that the ground is shaking beneath your feet and you are barely holding on. Remember it isn’t about the storm; it is all about the foundation. The bridge withstood the hurricane because the builder had anchored it deep into the ground. If your foundation is built upon the Rock and you are deeply anchored in Christ Jesus, you can weather any storm that unexpectedly comes your way. You may come out bruised and battered and there may be a “little damage to the bridge” yet, you can lift your hands toward Heaven and say, “But I’m still standing.”

WAITING ON THE DREAM-GIVER

2011-08-24T10:19:00.001-04:00

What do you do, where do you go when all your dreams lay shattered and broken? You go back to the Dream-giver. This has been a very painful few months of confusion, self-doubt, loss and sadness but through it all, God has held me close.
Much has been written about the 5 stages of grief, I experienced them all as I looked down upon my dreams that had died before they ever fully developed. At times the stages of grief blurred into one big ball of pain, other times, I was able to deal with one symptom at a time.

DENIAL: For a time I denied the obvious signs that they were not going to blossom into the beautiful blooms I envisioned. It was just easier not to deal with the reality of the situation. I even quoted, “calling things that are not as if they are.” The buds had shriveled up on the stem and the leaves were wilted but maybe a little more water would turn things around. After all the watering and loving care, I had to face the truth; my dreams just were not going to survive.

ANGER: Anger can be soothing, a security blanket that places all responsibility on outside forces. It also prevents you from assessing the situation and making the necessary changes that allow you to reach for the new season. I am still angry at the damage Satan has inflicted on my dreams but I also realize that I am the only one that can give him control over my future. So the anger slowly morphs into sadness over what could have been.

BARGAINING: Oh yes, I went through the bargaining stage. This was the stage in which I thought I had the power to stop the inevitable. Maybe if I fasted more, spoke positive words, named and claimed my desires and rebuked the enemy that had come to destroy my dreams, I would wake up and everything would be perfect again. My power waned and the bargaining stopped when I acknowledged my weakness, His strength and finally placed it all in the hands of the Master.

DEPRESSION: The stage of depression actually came before the anger. I had never realized how depression can actually suck the very life from you. I was embarrassed to let anyone in on this stage. My husband, friends and family never knew the struggle that I sometimes faced to even breathe. I had always been the strong one, self-sufficient, needing no one but God to see me through. Suddenly, I felt helpless, nothing was working and although, God daily showered His love on me, He wasn’t fixing the situation. There were days that I would spend on my knees, crying out my pain to God. I would make myself go somewhere at least once a week, just to get out of the house; unfortunately my bank account usually suffered from those excursions. Although at times, the dark cloud of depression looms threatening on the horizon, with God’s love, I have been able to move on to the last stage; acceptance.

ACCEPTANCE: The final stage is a great gift from God. It is impossible for another door to open and God to bring a new dream into being until you realize the old dream is really dead; it cannot be revived and will never come to fruition. It must be allowed to teach its lessons, remembered with fondness and stay buried. As the Apostle Paul tells us in Philippians 3:13-14 “Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”

What do I do when my shattered, broken dreams have been buried? I go back to the Dream-Giver. His word has promised, “Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.” (Psalm 37:4-5) I stand on the promises of a God who has never failed me. Once again I begin to praise, commit and trust but most of all, I wait on the Dream-Giver for the new dream.

WHAT'S GOOD ABOUT THE CHURCH

2011-07-27T16:24:00.000-04:00

Originally posted in April, 2010, I felt led to post it again. It is so easy to take our eyes off Jesus and become so discouraged that we fail to see the good in anything including the church. It was at such a moment that the Holy Spirit convicted me and I began to think about what a blessing The Church has been throughout my life.

Recently, Steve was talking with a man who wanted to change his life. He confessed that his attempt to change on his own wasn’t working; he could be good for a short time and then his desires would overwhelm his efforts. Steve, of course, began to tell him that being filled with the Holy Spirit was his answer. It is only through the Holy Spirit that we have the power to overcome our sinful nature. As the conversation continued, the reasons for his resistance began to spill out; he had been failed by the Church. It wasn’t really “The Church” but people who claimed to be members of “The Church.” He had been betrayed by people who talked “Christianese” but didn’t carry it through to the action phase. BEEN THERE!!!

I have yet to find an individual who has NOT been disappointed by a church member or a church member who has NOT disappointed someone. I have been let down by pastors, SS teachers, Christian “friends,” choir members and the list goes on. Sometimes as I sit quietly on a Sunday afternoon, I realize that I am the one who disappointed that member who needed encouragement, a friend or someone just to care. Yes, The Church is full of imperfect people; people who get angry, act hateful, betray trust, are insensitive and even sin; people just like you and me.

If you talk to enough disgruntled people or read enough religious news you will begin to get the picture that The Church is just a “Club for Hypocrites.” Is there anything good about The Church? This is an excerpt from a devotional by Christopher J. Harris called The Church Has My Vote. I’ve seen church members that take their faith serious and walk that out in their daily lives. I’ve seen Pastors have such an encounter with God that they live what they preach. I’ve seen choir members that were the same righteous people in public and in private. I’ve seen more preachers that were committed to their wives than I have seen the opposite. I’ve seen more Deacons support their Pastor’s than the opposite. I’ve seen church members that love people so much that they’ve given money, time, and their talents just to help someone that they’ve only met a few minutes ago. I’ve seen people cry together and laugh together. I’ve seen men connect with other men when otherwise there were walls of mistrust. I’ve seen women get restored when they’d decided they would never trust again……….That’s the other reason why I’m sold out to the church. It doesn’t belong to any one person. It is God’s!

I was introduced to the church at 10 months old and 53 years later, I still love The Church. It was a place where I learned to love God’s Word. Beginning with wonderful Sunday School teachers who lovingly taught me not just Bible stories but the awesome truths they contained. I had pastors that cared about their congregations and sacrificed personal opportunities to follow the call of God and preach salvation to lovable and unlovable sinners. It was surrounded by The Church that I gave my heart to God and received the Baptism of the Holy Spirit at 9 years old. It was The Church that encouraged an awkward teenager to sing, teach and learn to play the piano, and then use her talents for God. Church has always been a place of safety, where I could feel an arm around me as I poured my heart out to God. There are so many good things about The Church but the best thing about The Church is that I have been accepted as a member. Now it’s up to me. My behavior and attitude will determine if seeking people can find something good about The Church. Will they find welcoming arms or an exclusive club with a closed membership? Will they find the truth of God’s Word or an ear-tickling, back-slapping homily that leaves them unchanged? Will they find the power of the Holy Ghost or dead religion? God, help me to be a part of what’s good about The Church.

IT DOES MATTER - A WOMAN'S PERSPECTIVE

2011-07-21T18:01:00.001-04:00

MODESTY - regard for decency of behavior, speech, dress; simplicity; moderation. Synonyms include constraint, inhibition, innocence, propriety, reticence, chastity.

In our modern world, modesty seems to be one of the concepts that we can give a dictionary definition for but have trouble defining in regards to our person. For several years society and the church were on the same page when it came to MODESTY, as many of our laws will reflect. Then we entered the era of “personal liberation” in which society deleted the word MODESTY from its vocabulary and seemed to be at war with the church. Sadly, enough, the church and society are closing the MODESTY definition gap once again and it appears that society is winning.

Many pastors have obviously made the decision, “why fight it, I’ll just ignore it or perhaps join it.” Others are so afraid of being called “legalistic” that they too have erased the word, modesty, from their vocabulary, sermons and Bible studies. It is becoming a lost Biblical truth and we are raising up a generation of young people who are not even aware that modesty is one of the Godly principles in the Bible.

This was made evident to me recently when I reposted the following conversation from a friend, “Me to Sweet-Young-Thing in her daisy-dukes & bikini top, "I love having you come over, but you are going to have to cover up. I'm keeping my house a safe place for my husband/boys eyes/hearts" long conversation ensued, followed by SWT- "I wish MY mom would keep our home a safe place for my dad’s eyes/heart". Train up a child....” Having raised two boys, I can totally relate to this mother’s heart. I, too, tried to keep our home a safe place for my son’s eyes and hearts because I knew there were too many unsafe places that would try to steal their hearts and minds from the things of God. This posting of course caused quite a stir. Many posted that they agreed but some disagreed and gave their reasons. The most prevalent disagreement was that men’s eyes, hearts and minds were their responsibility. Men must be mature enough to just say no and turn away. Why should women have any responsibility in the matter? We should be able to wear and show whatever we desire; it is our bodies and “guys, keep your eyeballs in your head!” Is this true? Does it matter what we as women wear? Am I my brother’s keeper? Is there a Godly principle that addresses this issue without going into legalism?

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 reads, “What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? 20For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.”

BIBLICAL PRINCIPLE #1: YOU ARE NOT YOUR OWN FOR YOU ARE BOUGHT WITH A PRICE. It doesn’t matter what society tells you if you have committed your life to Jesus Christ, you don’t have a right to do anything you choose to do with your body. This includes the places you go, the words that come out of your mouth, the things you put into your mouth, or up your nose, the things you put in front of your eyes, what you listen to with your ears, what you do with your hands (including inappropriate gestures) and yes, what you put on your body. Jesus paid a high price to redeem you and if you belong to Him the only right you have is to GLORIFY GOD in your body and in your spirit.

Romans 14: 13 says, “Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather resolve this, not to put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brother’s way.” Verse 21, “It is good neither to eat meat nor drink wine nor do anything by which your brother stumbles or is offended or is made weak”

BIBLICAL PRINCIPLE #2: DO NOT DO ANYTHING WHICH CAUSES YOUR BROTHER TO STUMBLE, BE OFFENDED OR BE MADE WEAK. When we make a decision to join the Family of God, we are extended a privilege by God to become His sons and daughters, thereby gaining brothers and sisters. With privileges come responsibilities. One of our responsibilities is to help guard our sisters and brothers from stumbling. Now that does not mean that we have to lead them over every pitfall or be responsible for their actions but we MUST be responsible for our personal actions that could put a stumbling block in their path. Stumbling blocks could include sharing gossip or unseemly stories, inviting them to go with you to a venue that would feed their personal struggles and yes, even wearing articles of clothing that enhance or reveal body parts that could place impure thoughts in their minds. The comment was made that a lustful person is going to lust regardless of what another person is wearing. That is true but what about the young man who is struggling and is not mature enough to know how to say no? What about our husbands, sons, fathers or brothers who may be doing everything within their power to live a pure and Godly life? Biblical Principle #2 says, “Don’t make it more difficult for them by putting your scantily clothed body in their way.”

Exodus 20:12 “Honor thy father and mother.” Romans 12:10 “Be kindly affectionate one to another with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another;” 1 Peter 2:17 “Honor all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king.” 1 Thessalonians 4:4 “That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honor.”

BIBLICAL PRINCIPLE #3: HONOR; WE ARE TO HONOR OUR FATHERS, OUR HUSBANDS, OUR BROTHERS, AND OURSELVES. Another word for honor is respect; we are to respect one another and respect ourselves. When we display ourselves in an immodest fashion we are disrespecting or dishonoring our Fathers, Husbands, Brothers and Sons. Also when a scantily clad woman displays herself in front of my Husband and Sons, it is dishonoring me. Furthermore, putting on clothing that would cause anyone to look at you with impure thoughts is dishonoring yourself.

My dear, dear sisters our clothing DOES matter. It’s quite simple, every morning ask yourself, “Does my ensemble displease or bring glory to God, would it cast a stumbling block in someone’s path and does it honor or dishonor the men in my life?” As women we will never get away from the desire to be fashionable, decorate ourselves with clothing unique to our personality and surround ourselves with beautiful things. That is exactly how God wired us. If the world was left up to our men we would live in a black, gray, and brown world. So go for it, bring out the beautiful colors and silky feminine fabrics, buy shoes to match and crazy handbags but don’t leave Godly Principles out of your selection.

Mary K. Mohler sums it up best, “May God give us both the desire and the wisdom to live lives that are holy in every aspect. A lost world is watching.”

ENTERING THE DANGER ZONE

2011-07-18T15:38:00.001-04:00

We love to watch football and today's news that the NFL is close to reaching a deal is exciting news to many of my family members. Most autumn weekends will find us watching University of Michigan on Saturday and the Chicago Bears on Sunday. My husband and two sons define a good football game as a “Chicago Bear Win” but as all football fans can testify; sometimes you win “ugly.” Every football team walks onto the football field with a game plan in hand that they are sure will guarantee a win. If the plan is followed exactly and everything goes according to plan, then absolutely, a win is guaranteed. Now, I have watched football for over 35 years and I have never witnessed a game that followed the coach’s game plan exactly. Number 1, no matter how solid the game plan is, the coach has no knowledge of the rival team’s game plan and how to account for their “surprise” plays. Number 2, the players are human and the game plan cannot counteract human failure to perform. There will be dropped balls, fumbled snaps, pulled muscles, twisted ankles and missed extra points. Sometimes teams can compensate for their mistakes or capitalize on the other team’s errors and still come out on top. The team that wins consistently, however, will be the team that doesn’t allows mistakes or distractions to get in the way even when they have ENTERED THE DANGER ZONE.

What is the DANGER ZONE? After many years, I have observed that the most dangerous period for a team immediately after scoring, is the next possession by their opponents. They have achieved a goal and in their euphoria they deviate from the game plan. Their success becomes a distraction. Many times the opponent will have a great run back on the kickoff or score on a long pass down field. The team must be ever vigilant as they enter the GAME DANGER ZONE.

How many times have I watched this scenario play in other areas of my life? One day I am praising the Lord for victory only to allow Satan to score by wondering how God is going to lead me out of the next day’s dilemma. The Children of Israel are a prime example. God miraculously delivered them from Pharaoh, yet they stood panic stricken at the Red Sea. God gave them water from a rock and manna from Heaven but they feared weakness from a lack of protein. The disciples participated as Jesus fed the 5,000, and then questioned His ability to take them through the storm on the Sea of Galilee. If at all possible, Satan will attack you immediately following a wonderful blessing or victory by placing doubt in the way of climbing your next mountain. You cannot allow your success to distract you from Satan’s devices. Your weakest moment may come after your greatest victory; you have entered LIFE’S DANGER ZONE.

Whatever your challenge is today, step into it without fear. Enlarge your territory and set your goals high. Outline a strategy with mini-goals along the way. Every victory does not automatically signal an impending defeat. If you suffer a setback, reassess your position, tweak your strategy and keep pressing on toward the prize. Most importantly trust in the “Coach” and His game plan. He knows all the other team’s “trick plays” and He has never had a losing season. Celebrate each success and be aware of LIFE’S DANGER ZONE.

YOUR ANSWER IS ON THE WAY

2011-07-10T17:04:00.001-04:00

Steve and I have been fasting and praying for a mighty move of God at Cornerstone. On Friday morning, I felt such a powerful presence of the Lord in my living room as I prayed. Then about 1:00 Friday afternoon, I was watching Louisiana District camp meeting online when suddenly the Holy Ghost spoke to me and said, "You have your answer, it is on the way." I was so overcome, that I got up from my computer and began to dance in the Spirit all over my house for about 20 minutes. Anyone who knows me is aware that is NOT my normal behavior. When Steve came home from work, I shared what God had told me and we rejoiced together.

Sunday morning, I got up early to pray, asking God for a mighty move of His Spirit in our service. We arrived at church for 10:00 prayer and as we began to worship and intercede for the morning service, I received a vision from God. In the vision I was in the throne room of Heaven, on my knees in supplication before the Lord. As I began to pray, asking for a move of His Spirit, Jesus stood up, stepped down from the throne, with arms out stretched and walked toward me. I knew; the answer was on the way and it was the Holy Ghost; the move I had been praying for. All I could do was praise, worship and speak in tongues.

During Sunday School, I continued to quietly pray in the Spirit. The Mighty Presence lasted all through the praise and worship. But as Steve began to preach, I felt an oppressive spirit begin to move in. Again I began to pray, rebuking the devil in Jesus Name, claiming the anointing for the Word that was being preached and liberty for the preacher. The devil had to flee! During the altar service a couple of people came up to pray, but God was not done. Some more made their way up to the front and the wave continued. Suddenly, the Spirit of the Holy Ghost came down full force and swept the congregation. Sister Pat gave a message in tongues and interpretation. I came down off the piano and fell at the altar, as did others. The altar was filled with hungry hearts and the sound of travail, worship and praying in the Spirit filled the sanctuary. Every time it would die down another wave would begin. What a refreshing. The answer was and is a move of the Holy Ghost. God had made me a promise on Friday; the answer was on the way. I am still feeling the thrill from this morning and looking for the wave to keep going as we continue to pray and seek His face.

Every Sunday, the reports start pouring in over the internet of the mighty move of the Holy Ghost all over the world. God wants to move in our hearts and lives and in our churches. The key? PRAYER, SEEKING THE FACE OF GOD, PRESSING IN, DETERMINATION, AND NOT GIVING UP UNTIL YOU RECEIVE YOUR ANSWER.

We read in the Bible where Jacob wrestled with the angel and would not let go until he received his blessing. Is a move of the Holy Ghost worth enough to us that we are willing to seek God and hold on until we receive our blessing? Is the answer you seek worth sacrificing a meal and a few hours of prayer every week? Are the souls that are coming to be saved worth your travail? I say, “YES LORD, YES LORD, YES, YES LORD.” The Holy Ghost has been unleashed on our congregation. This is just the beginning for Cornerstone Apostolic Church in Morristown, TN. To quote T.D. Jakes, “GET READY, GET READY, GET READY!”

WHEN PASSION MATCHES HUNGER, YOU’RE GONNA EAT!

2011-07-06T01:48:00.000-04:00

There have been times I’ve been “kind of” hungry but nothing really sounds good. I rummage through the pantry and finally settle for whatever is handy. But then there are times when I am hungry for a donut. A cookie, a piece of pie or chocolate candy won’t do; I want a donut!!! It doesn’t matter if I have to drive to the donut shop across town, I will not be satisfied until I am eating a donut. That is passion!

Hunger identifies the emptiness inside that needs to be filled. Hunger lets you know that something is missing. Passion, on the other hand, is the driving force that moves you into action on behalf of the hunger. Passion says I’ve identified the need and I will stop at nothing to fill that need. Every mother can relate to the hungry wail of a baby. You may be in the middle of an important project or involved in your favorite activity but when the baby’s hunger intensifies and its passion rises to the same level, everyone in the house including Mama is going to know that something must be done, NOW!

We read in Mark 10 of a man named Bartimeus who was blind. I am not sure if he was born blind or experienced an accident or illness, the Bible doesn’t give us much history concerning Bartimeus, except he was blind and sat by the road begging. No doubt this day began the same as every other day; stumbling to wash his face, throw on a cloak and make his way to the road, hoping someone would have mercy on him so that he might buy his daily bread. He had learned to cope with his lack of sight. True, something was missing but what could he do about his misfortunate. Little did he know as he sat asking for alms that this was his day. His ear caught bits and pieces of conversation, “Jesus of Nazareth was passing down this very road.” A stirring of hope began to push his passion toward his hunger and he began to cry, “Jesus, thou son of David, have mercy on me.” The Bible tells us that many tried to quiet him but when passion matches hunger, you’re gonna eat!!! Instead of quietly melting into the crowd, Mark 10:48 says, “but he cried the more a great deal, Thou son of David, have mercy on me.” At that point the most beautiful thing happened, Mark 10:49, “And Jesus stood still, and commanded him to be called.” This was the day, the moment that his passion matched his hunger, his need was met; Bartimeus was no longer blind.

There are many more examples of passion matching hunger. A woman with an issue of blood was no longer satisfied to go from one physician to the next only to be told there was no hope. When she heard Jesus was in town, her passion caused her to push and press her way through the crowd. Zacchaeus needed salvation. As his passion matched his hunger, he began to climb a tree. Somehow, he must get to Jesus. Jesus saw him and said, “This day is salvation come to this house.” A roof was torn off, an alabaster box was broken and a little girl was raised all because PASSION MATCHED HUNGER!!!

Back to the baby, he may fuss a little until Mama sticks a pacifier in his mouth to lull him back to sleep. As long as the baby is satisfied with the pacifier, he will starve to death. But let his passion match his hunger and he is gonna eat. What is it you want from God? Have you allowed life to stick a pacifier in your mouth to appease your desire? You will never get anything worthwhile as long as you are satisfied with the pacifier. When you finally begin to get hungry for a move of the Holy Ghost and your passion rises to the same level, GOD IS GONNA MOVE AND YOU ARE GONNA EAT!!!

DECLARE YOUR INDEPENDENCE

2011-07-03T23:05:00.000-04:00

On July 4, 1776, the Colonies declared Independence from England. As of that date it was only a declaration, their freedom had not yet been won. The colonists were not deceived into thinking that merely writing a declaration would secure their independence. There was still a war to be fought. There must have been time of discouragement and battles that were lost, but the Colonists fought on. Finally, on September 3, 1783, the Treaty of Paris was signed; the Americans were victorious and free.

If there is something in your life that is controlling you, declare your independence today, July 4, 2011. Be prepared to fight. You will win some battles and lose others but remember a battle is not the war. If it is a spiritual battle, Satan will come up with a new strategy every time you win a victory. If it is a physical or emotional battle, be prepared to meet that which you are trying to conquer face to face every day. Phenomenal bargains and the latest gadget will present opportunities to deter you from financial battles. If you can keep your eyes on the goal you will be victorious. I challenge you to write your Declaration today, prepare for battle, and start to fight tomorrow.

“I am endowed by the Creator with the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. To continue to enjoy those rights, I must become disciplined and learn to say NO!!! From this day forward, I declare my independence and will no longer be under the control of my desires and passions but will control their use thereof.”

God bless you, God bless America and Happy Independence Day.

LET FREEDOM RING

2011-07-01T15:08:00.003-04:00

Monday, we celebrate the 235th birthday of the United States of America. It all began with a declaration of independence birthed in the heart of a people who were tired of being in bondage to an abusive government.

IN CONGRESS, July 4, 1776.

The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America,

When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed,

It seems there are many Americans who degrade this great country yet still want to enjoy all the benefits of citizenship. The wife of one prominent politician made this statement a few years ago, “for the first time in my adult life I am proud of my country.” Hollywood stars declare that if their candidate is not elected or certain laws are not passed/repealed, they will move to Canada, Great Britain, or France. Former MN Governor, Jesse Ventura stated that his government had lied to him several times and he could not believe anything they said. Yet he was a part of that government and considered running for the Senate. Citizens burn flags, hold protest rallies and declare their opposition to current policies all because we live in freedom in the greatest country on earth. I declare that I feel blessed to have been born in the United States and I AM PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN.

On October 9, 1966, I declared my independence from Satan and the bondage of his abusive government. I was born into the Family of God and awarded citizenship in Heaven. This citizenship comes with rights and privileges, such as: the right to live in freedom from the bondage of sin, the right to have someone raise up a standard and fight my battles, the right to live free from the fear of death, the right to live free from pain and want, and the privilege to be called a Daughter of God. Here are some excerpts from my spiritual Declaration of Independence.

John 8:32 And ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free. 33They answered him, We be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free? 34Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin. 35And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever. 36If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed

Romans 8:12 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

Romans 8:14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God; they are the sons of God. 15For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. 16The Spirit itself bears witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:

Galatians 5:1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.

Today in Christianity as in the United States, there are those who are no longer proud of their salvation experience and try to blend in with those who have not been born again. Others declare that it is bondage and threaten to leave the church for “more freedom.” Many, because of past hurts and experiences, declare God has failed them and His policies no longer deserve their vote. I declare today that I am thankful for my born again experience and PROUD TO BE A CHRISTIAN.

As we celebrate Independence Day, thank God for His saving grace and the United States of America for our liberty and LET FREEDOM RING.

MEMORIES OF DAD

2011-06-16T08:56:00.001-04:00

It has been almost 10 years since we said a temporary goodbye to Dad. I think of him often, “hear” his humorous comments as I watch the news, and “see” him in my oldest son, but today I can’t stop the tears.

Dad I miss you. Sometimes our family needs your “no nonsense” wisdom; we need to hear one of your crazy stories once again. I will never forget your arms around me as you told me goodbye the last time we saw you. I think you knew it would be the last time and you hugged me extra tight, hoping the imprint of your arms would always remind me of your love.

So many memories of you flood my mind. As a little girl I loved to watch your hands. You had strong hands with long slender fingers that could build a cabinet, assemble a toy or tenderly button a little girl’s coat. I knew there wasn’t a thing in the world that was too hard for those hands to fix.

You were the one who taught me how to sing. I loved to hear your voice in church and I loved the fact that you would cry every time you sang a solo. I will never forget my favorite song;

Don’t ever take the ribbons from your hair.
Each tiny bow is tied with loving care

You’re pretty as a picture and I love each precious curl

You’re mommy’s little problem, but you’re daddy’s little girl

You’ll never grow too old to wear your bows

They’ll always match your tiny turned up nose

And even when you grow to be like mommy sweet and fair

Don’t ever take the ribbons from your hair.

It has been said that our picture of our Heavenly Father is formed by our Earthly Father. Dad, I learned from you that God is my provider, my protector, and always faithful. Thank you Dad for the lessons in honesty, integrity, and commitment that you modeled for me. Thank you for walking away from the neighbor as he swore at you in front of your family. Thank you for being honest when the cashier gave you too much change. Thank you for standing up for me when the teacher cheated me out of a good grade and thank you for standing with the teacher when I was wrong.

Thank you for loving Steve as a son. It must have been hard to give your 18 year-old first born to another 18-year old teenager who didn’t even have a good job. I remember your teary eyes and how your knees shook as you walked me down the aisle. You knew that you were no longer the most important man in my life but you also knew that no one would ever take the place of my dad. You were so excited when you found out at the age of 42 that you were going to be a grandfather. I had been running up and down stairs with laundry, but a minute later, after you heard the news, you told me that maybe I shouldn’t be running on the stairs. I laughed but it made me feel all warm and fuzzy, as it still does 33 years later. You were so proud of Steven and Phil as they grew and went to college. You would be even more proud of the responsible men they have become.

I would love to see you with your great-grandchildren. Sometimes I close my eyes and imagine you with Mackenzie, Madison, Caleb, Nathan, Anabel and Maicie. The girls would wrap themselves around your heart. You would love Mackenzie and Madison’s beautiful red hair, brag on how smart Mackenzie is and melt into Madison’s big blue eyes. I can hear you say “hey, big boy” to Caleb and ask him if he hurt the floor when he falls over. Nathan and Anabel’s big smiles and mischievous antics would rate one of your great big laughs. You could never resist the littlest ones, so I know Maicie would follow your voice and cuddle right up to her Papaw-Great. The worst part of even temporary goodbyes are the things you don’t get to share.

I don’t understand everything about death, but I do understand eternity. Once again Dad, you’ve gone before all of us to pave the way. I am so thankful that you loved the Lord. I’m thankful that you believed in the Blessed Hope, that,” We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.” Dad, I know that it is just a temporary goodbye and I am so thankful that someday soon we will be able to sit down and talk for eternity. For today I’ll just remember your smile, your deep voice and your arms holding me tight as I look up to Heaven and say “Happy Father’s Day.

WE NEED GREAT DADS

2011-06-15T08:29:00.000-04:00

Chuck Colson of Prison Fellowship, reports that prisoners send thousands of cards on Mother’s Day to their Mothers and Grandmothers. A greeting card company donated thousands of cards to be sent on Father’s Day, but not one card was sent. Many of the prisoners had lost touch with or had no idea who had fathered them. This confirms the axiom that creating a baby does not make one a father. What the world needs is more Great Dads.

Hollywood leads us to believe that great fathers no longer exist. Men and fathers in particular are portrayed as self-centered, beer drinking idiots with rude obnoxious children and a wife that has to be both mother and father in the dysfunctional family. My experience belies this pop-culture portrayal of men. I was raised by a Great Dad, my husband has been an example of a Great Dad and I have observed my sons mature into Great Dads. Yes, I have been surrounded by Great Dads all my life.

Why is a Great Dad so important to your life?

Mom comforts you when you fall down, a Great Dad teaches you to walk.

Mom cries when her babies go to school, a Great Dad cries when he walks his daughter down the aisle or when his son wrecks the car.

Mom cheers when you swing at the ball, a Great Dad cheers when you connect and get on base.

Mom raves over the crayon picture on the refrigerator, a Great Dad raves over the great job his college grad just landed.

Mom feeds you broccoli and salad, a Great Dad stuffs you with pizza and ice cream.

Mom teaches you to love the beauty of a tastefully decorated home, a Great Dad teaches you to fix the holes in the wall.

Mom reminds you to wear your seat belt, a Great Dad reminds you to check the oil.

God created children to need the softness and nurturing love of a Great Mom, but children are incomplete without a Great Dad. Without a Great Dad in our lives we would never learn the importance of getting up when we fall, the satisfaction of achievement and that trying is only a portion of success. We would miss out on the delights of junk food, live in a beautiful, crumbling home and sit safely in a car that won’t run. A Great Dad goes to work when he is sick, mows the lawn when he would rather go fishing, unclogs the toilet, kills spiders and rodents, is crazy in love with your mother and pauses the basketball game to tuck you into bed. A Great Dad worries when you are out too late, wonders if you have enough money to pay your bills and never forgets to call your name in prayer.

Don’t forget to wish all the Great Dads in your life a very Happy Father’s Day.

AND GOD REMEMBERED....

2011-06-10T08:42:00.003-04:00

I feel so alone. Nobody even knows I exist. Nobody cares. Does God even know I’m here? I’ve been obedient, done everything He asked but I think God has forgotten or is too busy with everyone else. Have you ever had days, weeks or months in which these words became your refrain? Then the story of Noah will give you hope.

Consider how Noah must have felt after God shut the door of the ark and the days continued to pass. I have read many different theories on how long Noah was actually on the ark, they range from 150 to 377 days. What we can know is that it must not have been the most pleasant of experiences. The Genesis account tells us that the world was so wicked that the mind of man was continually on evil. In the midst of the evil, God found one man, Noah, who was righteous, faithful, and “perfect in his generations.” God called Noah into service; gave him the instructions and Noah obeyed. Genesis 6:22 tells us, “Thus did Noah; according to all that God commanded him, so did he.” I have to confess that I’m not sure I could say I have equaled Noah in faithfulness.

Finally, the years of building the ark, as God had commanded ended, the animals were gathered into the ark along with Noah, his wife, three sons and their wives. For seven days they waited for somebody; anybody from the congregation Noah had preached to for all those years of building, to join them in the ark of salvation. Imagine his disappointment when no one came and God shut the door. The long rainy days began. The monotony of feeding the animals, cleaning the waste, listening to the rain, living in the gloom and repeating it day after day had to have been depressing. There was nobody to care if Noah existed except a depressed wife and kids and hundreds of loud, stinky animals. Had God forgotten him? After all he had done for God was he sentenced to die on a creaky boat, alone and forgotten? NO, THIS IS NOT THE END OF THE STORY! Genesis 8:1records, “And God remembered Noah, and every living thing, and all the cattle that was with him in the ark…”

We all go through seasons of loneliness and isolation. We are studying God’s Word, seeking His will through prayer, obeying everything we know and hear from God, yet we seem to still be stuck on a stinky boat. God hasn’t forgotten you; the stinky boat is all part of His plan. Wonderful, fresh, new adventures are ahead. After many days, when the time is right your story will continue, “And God remembered….”

FAVOR IS ABSOLUTELY FAIR

2011-05-31T20:06:00.002-04:00

A few years ago, the famous Pentecostal preacher, T.D. Jakes preached a message entitled, “Favor Ain’t Fair.” It was one of the messages at which you find yourself yelling, “AMEN,” high-fiving someone and at times jumping up just to relieve the excitement. To me it was also one of those messages that a day later found me saying, “Huhhh?” “Favor ain’t fair?” Are you saying, “God ain’t fair?” For years, now, every time I hear someone use this quote, a red flag pops up in my brain and says, “Huhhh?”

I have been blessed to be the recipient of God’s favor in some things but not everything. I know people that seem to live under the “favor spout” while others have never found the place where favor is poured out. Soooo, maybe “Favor ain’t fair.” Except something in me refuses to accept that statement. If favor ain’t fair and its God’s favor, that would make God not fair. I decided to find the answer once in for all and opened my Bible. I found there were men and women who received the favor of God and many who did not. I also discovered that every single person who received God’s favor had one thing in common; FAITHFUL OBEDIENCE.

Take Noah for example. Genesis 6:8 tells us that Noah found grace (or favor) in the eyes of the Lord. Why? Was it a random choice? Did God like his name or the family he was born into? Genesis 6:9 explains why God’s favor rested on Noah and through him allowed life to continue on earth; “Noah was a just man, perfect in his generations. Noah walked with God.” Hebrews 11:7 again repeats, “By FAITH, Noah…..became an heir of the righteousness which is according to faith.” The Bible records that Noah was a Preacher of Righteousness and I believe that during the years of building and preaching, God gave everyone the opportunity to share in the favor He bestowed upon Noah. Obviously, no one else obeyed God’s command, so was God’s favor unfair?

Let’s move on to Abraham. I ask the questions again, random choice or good family? Abraham was born in a pagan land to a family who worshiped pagan gods, yet somehow out of all of his family, Abraham knew and believed in the one true God because when he heard God’s voice, he obeyed without hesitation. Why was Abraham blessed along with all of his descendants? Hebrews 11:8 answers the question, “By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance.” Because of Abraham’s FAITHFUL OBEDIENCE, Galatians promised, “In you all the nations shall be blessed.” Because of the favor shown to Abraham, his descendants become “God’s Chosen People.” We also have the opportunity to share in the promise according to Galatians 3:9, “So then those who are of faith are blessed with believing Abraham.” Notice there is a condition, FAITHFUL OBEDIENCE. Is God being unfair to those who are not of faith?

As a mom, I possess the power to bestow favor upon my children, as I choose and when I choose. Because I love both of my children and would give my life for them, my favor is not handed out randomly or because I find one better looking. My children are blessed because I love them but at times there is special favor given. Let’s suppose I give both of them a specific task and only one obediently completes the task. Would it be fair to show favor to the obedient and the disobedient child equally? I can guarantee you the obedient child would answer emphatically, “NO.” My favor would be given in a direct response to their obedience. We are all favored with the blessing of salvation when we obey the plan God has set forth and become His children. Is it fair for God to favor those who ignore His Word and through unbelief reject His salvation?

This opens up another question, “I have obeyed the salvation message, I try to follow after God every day, I pray and read His word, yet some receive favor for specific situations and I do not, what more must I do? Perhaps there is nothing more you must do because it is not the will of God for your life or perhaps it is not yet God’s perfect timing. Back to being a Mom and Grandma. I have a 4-year old grandson, Caleb and a 2-year old grandson, Nathan. I allow Caleb to cut out shapes with a pair of scissors but no matter how much Nathan kicks and screams, he does not get to use a pair of scissors. Am I being unfair? Is Caleb more highly favored than Nathan? Someday, the time will be right and Nathan will get to cut shapes just like his brother. If I have one son who loves peanut butter cups and another son who loves them but has a peanut allergy, it is not unfair to favor one with a peanut butter cup and the other with something else. In my superior knowledge and wisdom, I understand that favoring the allergic son with a peanut butter cup would cause great harm; possibly death.

Many times what seems to us to be unfair or God’s favor resting more highly on others is really the mercy of God preventing us from the very thing that could cause spiritual harm or death. Paul said in Philippians 4:11, “Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content.” It was not because Paul had decided to just settle on less than God’s best or because God had decided to favor others, but Paul could say this because he had total confidence in his knowledge that “all things were working out for his good, that God had a plan for his life and whatever state he was in had to do with the plan of God being fulfilled.

I submit therefore that God’s favor is always FAIR. Maybe, not fair as we would measure it with our limited knowledge, but always fair according to the plan of God. When we finally learn to submit our actions, thoughts, decisions and our entire life to God we will walk in FAITHFUL OBEDIENCE and rest in the knowledge that God’s favor is ABSOLUTELY FAIR.

SATAN CANNOT GO BEHIND THE VEIL

2011-05-28T10:40:00.001-04:00

In a recent discussion on prayer, a friend made a comment about a remark a minister had made years ago, regarding prayer, which affected her still today. I had heard the same remark and it had the same affect on me, creating a fear and carefulness in my daily devotions. During a sermon, the minister had remarked, “Be careful what you say when you pray, the devil is listening and will use your words against you.” After hearing those instructions, I found myself weighing my words and at times mentally praying them in fear that Satan would come against me if I verbalized my feelings and needs to my Heavenly Father. This is NOT a biblical concept. Pastors, please be aware that what may sound good to you can affect someone’s walk with God negatively, if it is not based on The Word.

1 John 5:14-15”And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he hears us:”

The Bible teaches that we are to have CONFIDENCE in the Lord. We cannot have total confidence in Him if we are always afraid that “what we say may be used against us.” We have all heard of “Lawyer/Client Privilege.” It is a law that states whatever a client tells in private to his/her lawyer cannot be revealed to the jury and used against him/her in judgment. Do we believe that God is less trustworthy than a lawyer? Now that privilege does not exist if the client allows a third party in on the conversation. The Father/Child privilege ceases to be viable if we include a phone gossip session, daily whining and complaining to whomever will listen or a Facebook post for the entire world to see. We must keep the petition between ourselves and God.

Back to my struggle with prayer, I believe that God revealed to me that when I am on my knees in consultation with Him that I can be totally honest about my innermost feelings and ask or say anything that is in my heart. Many times I have poured out my hurts and frustrations to Him and after feeling His arms of comfort, listened as He gently showed me what needed to be changed in my life. Not one time has God allowed Satan to use it against me. God is not Connie Chung leaning forward as she tells Newt’s mother, “it will be just between you and me,” on national television. Proverbs 3:26 tells me, “For the LORD shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken.” He can be depended on.

Hebrews 6:1-19 That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: 19Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and which enters into that within the veil;

I believe that when we enter into our “prayer closet” to spend time alone with God, we enter into the Holy of Holies and approach the very Throne of God. The Bible tells us that to get to the Holy of Holies we must go behind the Veil and behind the Veil is the Mercy Seat. Let me assure you, the devil is not allowed to go behind the Veil because it would require that he go through the Blood of Jesus Christ. We can have confidence that when we approach the Throne of Grace, that Satan is no where around and we can tell God anything and everything.

Philippians 4:6-7 Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

HYMNAL THEOLOGY

2011-05-25T09:01:00.000-04:00

♪♫♪"In my heart there rings a melody, there rings a melody with Heaven’s harmony. In my heart there rings a melody, there rings a melody of love. ♪♫♪

From a small child until now, my life has been centered around God and the church. I have always been convinced that God loved me, hated sin, Heaven is real and Hell is hot. Like most children, I was easily distracted in church. We would people-watch and play games with the hymnals. Even with all the distractions you can’t help but get a little theology in your head when you attend four services every week. Looking back, I have to confess that a lot of my theology and understanding of the Bible came through the songs that we sang.

I love Pentecostal music especially the old hymns. We sang from a hymnal entitled “Pentecostal Praises” and to this day I can’t help but sing one of the beloved songs once or twice a week. I learned about God’s love singing, “I was sinking deep in sin, far from the peaceful shore….Love lifted me, love lifted me. When nothing else could help, love lifted me.” And “Leaning, Leaning, safe and secure from all alarm, leaning, leaning, leaning on the everlasting arms.” I may not have understood all the words but I knew God loved me and could be depended on. I am convinced that this next song was written with moms in mind. “Watching you, watching you, every day mind the course you pursue. Watching you, watching you, there’s an all seeing eye watching you.” My mom could figure out what I was up to before I even acted upon any of my thoughts. I think it was that God-given all-seeing eye. As I grew older, it was the knowledge of the “Eye” that kept me out of a lot of trouble.

Oh yes, we sang about sin. I knew sin was something I needed to get rid of because sin and Heaven didn’t mix. How did I know? We had a song; “Heaven is a Holy place filled with glory and with grace, sin can never enter there. All within its gates are pure, from defilement kept secure, sin can never enter there…. If at the judgment bar, sinful spots your soul shall mar, you can never enter there.” We kept singing and I learned that sin had a remedy; “Would you be free from your burden of sin? There’s power in the blood, power in the blood. Would you o’er evil the victory win? There’s wonderful power in the blood”. Not only could I be free of sin but I knew that I would never have to face that sin again because, you got it; there was a song, “They’re underneath the blood of the cross of Calvary, as far removed as darkness is from dawn. In the sea of God’s forgetfulness there’s room enough for me. Praise God my sins are gone.” The words of that song filled me with such peace because I knew that once God had forgiven me, there was no more condemnation and even God didn’t remember what I had done.

I loved the toe-tapping, hand-clapping melodies. Oh how the joy of the Lord filled my heart as we lifted our voices and sang, “Some glad morning we shall see Jesus in the air coming back for you and me joy is ours to share. What rejoicing there will be when the saints shall rise, headed for that jubilee yonder in the skies.” Or, “It is joy unspeakable and full of glory…Oh the half has never yet been told.” So many memories and so many songs run through my head. They taught me to love a wonderful savior that not only died for me but has a place prepared for me to live for all eternity. I am so thankful for my Pentecostal heritage and the hymnal theology that I still hold close to my heart today.

SOMEDAY THE ROSE WILL BLOOM

2011-05-24T18:50:00.000-04:00

2 Corinthians 3:18 But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.

Having lived in the Northern United States for all of my life, except for 2 years that I don’t really remember, I was so excited to see flowers blooming in March all around our new Tennessee home. The trees were in full bloom by mid-march and the smell of lilacs wafted through the open window by Early April. In Michigan it is not wise to plant flowers before Memorial Day. I learned this lesson the year my son graduated from high school. I wanted the back yard to be a beautiful garden for his graduation party and with the knowledge that it takes a few weeks for the flowers to fill in, I decided to plant all the flower beds on Mother’s Day weekend. Of course, it is Michigan and the temps at night are still quite cool. The frost came and my flowers were puny with blackened leaves. I had to replant at the end of May at double the expense, but I had learned my lesson.

It was the first of May; I was enjoying the 80 degree temps, admiring the completely leafed-out trees and thanking God for allowing me to live in such a beautiful city when my eye caught two perfectly formed rose buds. One was a creamy white and the other was a pinkish red. Both were tightly closed and I couldn’t wait to see them in full bloom and breathe in their sweet fragrance. In a couple of days the creamy rose blossomed into a beautiful full-blown rose. I enjoyed every minute of its week-long life. Finally the petals dropped to the ground to complete the cycle of life. The other rose continued to stay tightly closed. Its stem was straight, reaching longingly toward the warm sun. Its leaves were green and healthy with no sign of pests or disease but the flower stubbornly refused to open and release its fragrant beauty. On Sunday, I noticed that the tightly closed bud was beginning to look a little wrinkled and I remarked to Steve that for some reason the flower had dried up right on the stem. Tuesday morning, I walked out to water the potted flowers and there was my breathtakingly beautiful rose in glorious full bloom.

Many times I have been like the rose. It seemed that conditions were perfect and everything was in order. I had allowed the Spirit to water my roots, had felt warmed by God’s presence and fed by His Word, yet nothing had happened; I was as tightly closed as the rose bud. There were times I wondered; would it ever be my season? Would God ever allow me to unfold and be all that He had planned me to be? Sometimes I felt dry and wrinkled and almost resigned to withering right on the vine but a ray of hope would slowly warm my petals and I would hang on for another day. What the rose doesn’t see is that even when it is not blooming, it is maturing and the roots are being fed. When it didn’t seem as if I was progressing, God was at work on the roots; digging and pruning to make a healthy plant that would glorify Him. I may not be fully bloomed out yet, there may still be a little more growing to be done but, like my lovely rose, someday I will wake up to be transformed into something beautiful to be used for His glory.

IMAGINE THE LONLINESS

2011-05-14T11:04:00.003-04:00

Imagine the horror Adam and Eve must have felt the first morning they awoke outside the Garden. It wasn’t just a bad dream; they had really disobeyed the commandment of God. God really did mean what he had said. There were no beautifully laden trees to sate their hunger. They were chilled from the cold night wind and the friendly lion was not such a cuddly kitten any longer. As the sun rose and warmed their bodies they found some familiar plants to stop the rumbling in their stomachs and drank the cool water from a nearby stream. As the day continued and the sun grew hotter, Adam began to sweat and was reminded again of his sin. The sky grew dim, streaked with beautiful colors as evening returned and a cool breeze brushed their faces. It was time for their daily walk and talk with God but He didn’t appear. Night fell and they were alone. IMAGINE THE LONLINESS!

Last night, I learned of another soul that stepped into eternity without God. This was not a person who had been raised in a remote village without any knowledge of God. He had been nurtured in a beautiful garden, taught the love of God and daily fed the truth of God’s Word. What happened? One day the beauty of the forbidden fruit and the beckoning voices became too great a temptation. He stepped outside the garden never to return. There were opportunities, God never stopped reaching; never stopped speaking but the noise of the world grew ever louder as he allowed it to drown out the still small voice of the Savior. Then it all ended and eternity became a reality; an eternity without God. IMAGINE THE LONLINESS!

It’s not too late, there is still time. God has provided a way through Jesus Christ to step back into the “Garden of His Love.” 2 Corinthians 6:2 tells us, “behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” Don’t waste another moment because the next moment may be the last opportunity you have to reject the forbidden fruit and listen to the voice of God. Your eternity is at stake.

Now, go with me to the bedside of a faithful child of God. He has walked with God, shared the gospel with others, and enjoyed the many blessings of God. The end of this life has arrived. It is time to step into eternity. The curtain parts and the Savior is waiting to welcome him home. IMAGINE THE JOY!

WORDS OF WISDOM FOR MY CHILDREN

2011-05-05T09:16:00.001-04:00

One of the greatest privileges and blessings in my life is to be a mother. Every day adds another memory to the beautiful tapestry of motherhood. I loved cuddling them close and breathing in that fresh baby smell; Baby Magic lotion still triggers sweet memories. Listening to their baby chatter and watching as their minds created a magical world that was limited only to their own imagination never failed to amaze me. I even enjoyed the “teenage” years and my role in helping guide them through the pitfalls and drama. We all survived and now I can sit back and look with pride at the men, husbands and daddies they have become. Steven and Philip, no matter what age you have attained, I will always keep you close to my heart and never forget the feel of little arms around my neck and a sweet little voice saying, “I love you Mommy.”

Over the years, I have given you many words of advice and here are the ones I hope that you will continue to apply for the rest of your life and pass along to the precious little ones that God has placed in your care.

1. Your parents don’t really get smarter, you just learn to listen.

2. Begin every day with praise and end every day with thanksgiving.

3. You only get one time around; make every day count.

4. Nothing you can do can ever make me stop loving you.

5. Truth matters, find it, hold to it and defend it.

6. Every marriage is perfect, it’s the people that are imperfect.

7. You will know you are a successful parent when your adult child starts sounding like you.

8. God is not mad at you.

9. Take time to do the Mickey Mouse dance with a child.

10. Having all your family for the holidays really is the best gift.

11. Grandchildren are the closest thing to a do-over in life.

12. The cool kids in high school are still working at the hot dog stand.

13. True friends are excited about your success.

14. Nothing is more rewarding than 2 little arms around your neck and a little voice saying, I wuv you so much.”

15. God is ready to pour all of your blessings on you if you will quit plugging the spout.

16. If you are having a bad day, do something nice for someone else, your day will change.

17. Plan a Date Night. Leave the kids at Grandma’s. They will have fun and so will you.

18. A clean house may make you feel accomplished, but a fun day with your family will make you feel loved.

19. You can’t make it through life without being full of the Holy Ghost.

20. You will never really appreciate your parents until they aren’t around.

21. Although the night is dark, God’s mercies are new every morning, so go to bed.

22. Become best friends with your spouse.

23. The greatest inheritance you can leave your children is a Godly Foundation.

24. Find something silly to laugh about every day; who cares if no one else gets it.

25. At the end of your life God’s opinion is the only one that matters.

Love you forever, Mom

PEACE IN THE MIDST OF THE STORM

2011-04-28T16:50:00.000-04:00

It had stormed all day in Tennessee. The daytime television shows were preempted by the Network Weather Team, the sirens on the weather radio screamed at regular intervals with new alerts, torrential rain accompanied by thunder and lightning poured from the menacing skies. Suddenly the rain stopped, a glimmer of sunlight peaked through the clouds and calm descended over East Tennessee. I stepped out onto the front porch to check out the skies and survey any damage and there peeking through the trees was a rainbow. Although I knew the storm wasn’t finished and possibly, the worst was yet to come, God’s promise portrayed in the rainbow brought peace to the situation.

In Genesis 9:14, God told Noah, “And it shall come to pass, when I bring a cloud over the earth, that the bow shall be seen in the cloud.” In verse 16, He continues, “And the bow shall be in the cloud; and I will look upon it, that I may remember the everlasting covenant between God and every living creature of all flesh that is upon the earth.” Science teaches us that rainbows are created when rays of light pass through drops of rain at various angles, bending and separating the light into a beautiful spectrum. But to the believer it is so much more than light, rain drops and angles; it is a promise direct from God. According to the Word of God, when we see a rainbow, we should remember the EVERLASTING covenant between God and every living creature on the earth. To me the little rainbow peeking through the clouds reminded me that God is in the midst of every storm.

There are times that life becomes stormy. The adversarial winds blow against us with such force that it is difficult to take even the next step let alone continue the journey. Our eyes are blinded by the torrential rains and if that isn’t enough, icy pellets of hail begin to wound us, and we wonder if the storm will ever stop. Suddenly, in the midst of our storm, Jesus steps in and we feel a calm spirit descend over us. Through the clouds we catch a glimmer of light, past the trees a hint of a rainbow appears. The storm may not be over and the worst of it may still be ahead but I hear a soft whisper, I feel a hand holding mine, I take the next step and there is peace in the midst of my storm.

TO WHOM SHALL WE GO?

2011-04-23T10:38:00.000-04:00

During this time of remembering Jesus’ death and celebrating His resurrection, we often want to give the crucifixion honorable mention and quickly move to the victory of the empty tomb. When we allow ourselves to pause and consider the pain and agony of His death, it is hard to get pass the horror of the physical torture that Jesus suffered for us. But what about the mental agony of “He who knew no sin”, bearing our sins? Consider His anguish as the One who “so loved the world” looked down from the cross and saw only a handful of followers watching from afar. After 3 1/2 years of preaching, miracles and sacrifice, was this His entire congregation? Had they gone in search of a more exciting program, a more dynamic speaker or a more “seeker-friendly” message? What had happened to the multitudes that came for the loaves and fishes?

The beginning of the exodus of Jesus’ followers is recorded in John 6:66-68. “From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life.” Jesus could continue His ministry with the assurance that there would always be His mother and at least 12 men or 11 since as God; He knew Judas would betray Him. Jesus could always depend on Peter. It was Peter who recognized that Jesus was the Son of the Living God. Peter who said, “I have no other place to go.” We hear from Peter again assuring Jesus that he would “NEVER deny Him.” The same Peter who was given the Keys to the Kingdom. Now, jump ahead to “Trial Day” and where is Peter? We find him outside with the other spectators loudly proclaiming, “Don’t look at me, I don’t know Him.”

Jesus looks down from the cross expecting to see some of the 5,000 that were fed from a little boys lunch, or maybe Blind Bartemaeus, surely at least 1 of the 10 lepers would come to mourn, John 19:25-26 explains Jesus’ view from the cross, “Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene. 26 When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son!" Only 4 people? During His final hour, Jesus had more accusers than followers. The loneliness must have been overwhelming.

Would I have been at the foot of the cross? Like Peter, I assure myself that I would never leave, where else would I go, He has the words of eternal life. But what happens when life gets tough, when my plans and dreams get shattered, when it seems there is no harvest after years of sowing seed and watering tender plants? Am I like Peter standing afar off warming his hands or do you find me kneeling with John and the 3 women; faithful to the end? Lord, I want to be a Simon of Cyrene carrying your cross or a Joseph of Arimathaea, ministering to your Body. In the good times and bad, during harvest or famine, whether it rains or the sun shines, “To whom shall I go, You have the Words of Eternal life.”

IT IS FINISHED; NOT ENDED

2011-04-22T09:14:00.001-04:00

When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, “It is finished:” and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost. John 19:30

Sunday we will celebrate with Christians all over the world the most important day in history. Many, who have not been to church since last year’s Easter or Christmas service, will sit on our pews and hear the story of the resurrection. To all of us who have experienced redemption through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, it isn’t just a story of an event long ago; it is the culmination of the plan of God that was set in motion from the foundation of the earth. Man had sinned, been judged guilty and sentenced to death. God loved His creation so much that He did not want to wipe us off the face of the earth. So God robed himself in flesh, came to earth as a baby, took all of our sins upon himself and died in our place; the story of Easter.

The Resurrection is such a personal event to me. My life has been dramatically changed because of the blood which flowed from Calvary. Jesus came to alter the destiny of mankind and no one who has a personal encounter with Him can remain as they were.

Lives were affected from the moment He was conceived. Mary and Joseph had all their life’s plans dramatically altered. No longer just another giddy engaged couple; they accepted the awesome responsibility of nurturing and raising the Son of God. Priests, scribes and Pharisees marveled at the wisdom of a 12 year old boy. The Bible mentions some of the women who were touched by Jesus in a time when women were overlooked by most of society. An encounter with a woman by the well in Samaria resulted in a testimony that brought many Samaritans to belief in Jesus Christ. Several came to Jesus because of a need and went away healed and made whole. Who can forget the woman who had been diseased with an issue of blood for 12 years? After spending all that she had and going to every physician she knew, a mere touch of the hem of His garment made her whole. There were many who were forever changed during the last week of Jesus’ life. Sadly, some would never accept the hope that he offered.

All through their lives, each of these individual could not escape what may have been a momentary encounter with Jesus, God robed in flesh. Some may have been haunted by the memory while others rejoiced in new found freedom, but all were changed.

I am so thankful that though the plan is finished, it didn’t end at Calvary or the empty tomb or with the death of the disciples and apostles. The final chapter hasn’t been written. Jesus is still changing lives, setting captives free and healing sick and wounded people. I had my personal encounter with Jesus Christ 44 years ago. I can tell you the day, the hour and the place where my life was forever changed. Let this be the Easter that you allow Him to touch you and change your life for all eternity.

YES LORD, RIGHT AFTER I PUT THE GROCERIES AWAY

2011-04-21T11:02:00.001-04:00

As a pastor’s wife for several years, I’ve heard about every excuse for not serving God, missing church, or not being involved that can be invented. My sister, a fellow pastor’s wife and I have declared that some day we will compile all of this wonderful creativity and write a book. I’m positive it will be a best seller; we already have friends that are waiting to preorder their copy. Every time I believe there is nothing new that a person will think up, another excuse is added to my collection. Human ingenuity never ceases to amaze me.

I will never forget the day, my sister called with this one; it has become my favorite. Just before service that evening, a dear “saint” called to let the pastor know that she would not be able to be at church because she had to put the groceries away!!! Now I’m sure the Lord “understood.” After all, groceries are expensive, meat left on the counter for an extended period of time will stink up your house, our houses should be neat and orderly, etc. Unlike the Lord, however, I was speechless!!! Throw the perishables in the fridge, the non-perishables in the closet if you must and GET TO THE HOUSE OF GOD!

Luke 14 recounts the story of a man who had worked hard to prepare a nice dinner only to receive excuses from the invited guests. One had purchased some property and had to go check on it. Another had obtained five yoke of oxen and had to try them out. The third merely said, I have just gotten married and can’t come. The host was so angry that he ordered his servant to go out into the streets and bring in anyone who was hungry enough to accept his invitation. Perhaps, the problem is that we are not hungry enough for the things of God.

Abraham left all his family to follow God, not even knowing where he would finally settle down. The Children of Israel were ordered to be ready to leave immediately with their staff in hand and shoes on their feet. There would be no time to put away the groceries; this was their Night of Deliverance. When Jesus called the twelve disciples, the Bible records that Peter and Andrew “straightway” left their nets and followed Him. James and John “immediately” left their ship and father to follow Jesus. We also read where Matthew left his tax collecting table to follow Jesus, but how many people did Jesus invite to follow him that said, “Yes, Lord, but first let me put away the groceries?”

What are you allowing to take precedence over the call of God in your life? Perhaps it isn’t a yoke of oxen, a piece of property or sacks of groceries but what about a career, your children, your age or future experiences? When will we finally leave the groceries on the counter and say as Isaiah said, “Here am I; send me.” Make God your priority today. YOU ARE HIS!!!!

PRAYING OR PREYING

2011-04-16T16:24:00.001-04:00

The English language contains many words which are pronounced the same but have very different meanings and spellings. Often one letter makes all the difference, changing the meaning of your statement. Words such as “too or two,” “wear or ware,” “bases or basis,” and “meet or meat” all fall into the homonym category. In this day of texting, acronyms and abbreviations, it seems we have become very lazy when it comes to proper English and Facebook is a prime example of our laziness.

I came across a request for prayer in a friend’s status update. It simply read, “Please continue to pray for my family.” To which I replied, “Praying in Jesus Name,” then took a moment to ask God to intercede on behalf of my friend’s family. Usually, I like to check back and see if there are any updates or praise reports on the request. Directly under my post was a post that read, “Preying for you.” I’m sure the person had just misspelled a word or hit the wrong letter, but I began to ponder the difference that one letter made in the meaning of our statements.

To pray is defined as”making earnest petition or entreaty for,” however, if you change the “a” to an “e”, to prey takes on the sinister definition “to seize, devour, to victimize another or others.” One word portrays a lovely vision of a fellow believer kneeling before the Throne of Grace delivering a petition of need for a loved one. The second word invokes the scene of a lion stalking a victim then crouching ready to strike at just the right moment. How many times have I confused the vowels; told a friend I was praying when in fact I was preying for them.

James 5:16 instructs us to, “Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that you may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” We are not afraid to ask people to pray for us. In fact in my Pentecostal circle of friends, it is common place. We assure each other after every conversation that we are praying for them. If there is a loss; we are PRAYING. Illness; PRAYING, financial need; DEFINITELY PRAYING and hopefully, we mean it and follow through. What do we do, however, when there is a need that includes “unsavory” details? What if someone trusted you enough to “confess their faults?” What if you read some “juicy” details on Facebook put 2 and 2 together and came up with 4? Would we fall to our knees and PRAY or would we run to the phone and PREY? Too often, I fear we would whisper “God bless them” as we screamed, “Can you believe what I just heard?”

Dear God, help me to not get my vowels confused. When a friend confesses a “fault,” remind me to fall on my knees and PRAY rather than wait for just the right moment to PREY. I ask that you will help me to become the righteous person that has an effectual, fervent prayer life; one that knows how to intercede for my brother or sister in need. May I never be guilty of victimizing the weak but rather lead them to victory in Jesus. Help me always to PRAY and never to PREY.

JUST CALL ME SISTER SUSAN

2011-04-13T13:01:00.001-04:00

At my college graduation ceremony, I watched enviously as the Doctoral Candidates marched across the stage. They wore awesome hats, sported flowing sashes around their necks and had earned the right to sign “Doctor” in front of along with several letters behind their names. Then my name was finally called to receive a Bachelors Degree. Sure my family was proud and I had worked hard to graduate “Suma Cum Laude,” but my hat was the old tassel and mortar board and the “flowing sash” was merely a golden rope. After consulting the school catalog, I decided a Doctorate Degree meant several more years of school, a lot of hard work and no guarantee of a better job offer. I could live without a “DR” in front of my name.

Life has taught me that titles should mean something, should not be conferred upon people lightly, and should be earned. At the age of 18, I took the title of “MRS,” after 35 years it still means something and I HAVE earned it. It meant I was now part of a team and with a lot of hard work, love and faithfulness, this team would build a great life. The title has not diminished me in any way and I was not ashamed to replace my last name with that of my husband; it is a badge of honor that I have earned. Two years later I became a Mother. You aren’t a Mom just because you give birth. It means you love, nurture, teach and help guide little people who someday become big people and hopefully “rise up and called you blessed.” After years of hard work, I have earned the title “MOM” and I have two amazing children who have conferred the honor upon me.

Lately, I have noticed an increasing trend in the church to add a title in front of everyone’s name without much thought to its meaning. Is every minister now a BISHOP? I read where a woman had given herself the title Bishop. REALLLY!!! Is that biblical? Does the title, Bishop, have no meaning anymore? 1 Timothy 3 lays out the qualifications of a bishop very clearly. The person desiring the office of Bishop must be blameless, the HUSBAND of one wife, and the head of his house, amongst other qualifications. Sorry, no mention of us ladies. Do we believe as, one minister said in an attempt to justify his own sin, “The Apostle Paul just got it wrong?” Are we so hungry for recognition and honor we are willing to ignore the biblical qualifications? Is it possible to be married to the Pastor without having to be called “Co-Pastor?” Can I speak in church without being called an Evangelist or Minister or may I sing a song of praise without the title of Psalmist?

I was raised in a church where everyone, from the pastor to the newest “babe in Christ,” was called “Brother” or “Sister,” It meant something. As a child, it meant I was part of a huge family that loved me, prayed for me and wanted me to succeed not because I was important but because of the shed blood of Jesus Christ. There really were no “Big I’s” or “Little You’s,” in this family we were all on an equal playing field; Brothers and Sisters. Today in our quest for recognition and honor we have reverted to a hierarchical form of position and have even invented titles to bestow on those we admire.

So please, do not diminish the other ladies in the church by calling me “First Lady.” They are not “Second or Third Ladies,” they are my “Sisters in Christ.” They stand shoulder to shoulder with me as we labor together for the Lord. They love me, pray for me, and encourage me; we are family and they are my sisters. 1 Corinthians 3:9 reminds us, “For we are laborers together with God: you are God's husbandry, ye are God's building.” No title is necessary when we recognize that we belong to God and without God we can accomplish nothing of worth. But, if you still feel the need to place a title in front of my name or wish to confer a badge of honor upon me, please just call me Sister Susan.

IT TAKES EVERY FLOWER TO MAKE A BEAUTIFUL BOUQUET

2011-03-22T11:22:00.001-04:00

Although we have been at Cornerstone since October, we had never planned a service to officially install my husband and me as Pastor. Last weekend, Michael and Tami Keller of Grand Rapids, MI came to pray such a blessing over us and minister to our congregation. My sweet friend, Tami presented me with a beautiful bouquet of mixed cut flowers along with a wonderful word of encouragement. The bouquet was filled with roses, every color of tulip imaginable, daisies, irises; a tiny yellow flower and beautiful greenery completed the picture. The arrangement was beautiful in itself but what it represented was so inspiring. Tami had asked the florist to fill it with one of every flower available, representing the uniqueness of each individual in the congregation, at the same time the beautiful Body of Christ we become when brought together.

This morning as I enjoy the beauty of the bouquet and breathe in the sweet aroma, I think of the people God has brought together to form the family of Cornerstone. My mind goes to the person that greets me every Sunday with a hug and tells me how good I look. Instantly, a smile comes to my face, my day is brighter and I’m almost convinced that what he is saying about me is true. Another individual loves to worship the Lord. It blesses and refreshes me to see her hands lifted, tears streaming down her face and hear her voice praising God. One precious lady has a smile that absolutely lights up the room. Every service, I find myself seeking her out just to be in the presence of her beautiful smile. Another much loved saint always answers the phone with such a welcome in her voice, as if my call as just made her day. She has so many demands on her time but never fails to help me with any pressing matter that happens to pop up. I have a dear sister/friend that hugs me and tells me I’m so sweet. Believe me it just melts my heart because “sweet” is not a term that has been used to describe me very often in my life. Again, I’m almost convinced. There have been many emails and phone calls from one precious member just letting us know how much we are loved and appreciated. They always seem to come with perfect timing; right when I needed a boost. Yet another that comes to mind is one that comes to every service, music practice or event with energy and enthusiasm which in turn energizes and excites me as to what God is doing at Cornerstone. Others may feel that they are just “fillers” but they are so important to the bouquet. Their quiet dependability, making sure the church is in tiptop shape, completing every task without reminders or waiting to be asked, a gentle spirit, friendly smile, warm handshake and knowing that they are always praying for us sends out such a sweet smelling aroma.

Yes, I look at my beautiful bouquet of flowers and thank God for all the wonderfully unique people He has placed in my life; especially the ones we are privileged to pastor. Thank you, Tami, my dear friend for giving me such a vivid reminder of God’s love.

CONNECTING THE DOTS

2011-03-16T01:30:00.001-04:00

At around 5 years of age, my mother bought me a “Connect The Dots” book thinking it would help me learn to count and recognize the numbers. She was right but it also began my love affair with puzzles. I love crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, mystery puzzles and connecting the dot puzzles. Although they can be a challenge, there is always an end in which the true picture is revealed, all the words fit just right, or the real villains are uncovered. There is nothing more frustrating than realizing a piece of the puzzle is missing or the mystery has never been solved; I must have closure! How disappointing it would be to open your new “Connect the Dot” book to find that there were just a bunch of dots on the page with no numbers or even worse to have a dot at the top with the number 1 and a dot at the bottom with the number 20. You would not know where to start or finish with the first page and the second page would give you a beginning but no steps in between to get you to the ending point. You need direction from the puzzle's creator to be able to follow the numbers to completion.

Sometimes it seems as if life is a misprinted version of “Connect the Dots.” We all have a beginning point, hopefully we have a vision of what we want the end product to be, but it is the in between dots that seem to be missing. You may feel that you are just not in tune with God; be assured, you are not alone. Joseph was given dreams at a very young age, dot #1. He dreamed that someday the sun, moon and stars would bow down to him, dot #15. Now where were dots # 2, through #14? Although he may not have recognized it at the time, God was supplying and connecting the dots all along the way. Dot #2, he told his brothers and father his dream, Dot #3, his brothers throw him in a pit, Dot #4, Joseph is sold to the Ishmaelites, Dot #5, Joseph was sold to Potipher, Dot #6, Potpher’s wife tells lies on Joseph, and Dot #7, Joseph is thrown in prison. At this point, Joseph must have felt like there were no more dots on the page, perhaps the dreams were just fantasies and #7 was the ending dot, but God had some more connecting ahead. Dot #8, God gives Joseph favor with the prison warden, Dot #9, involves a butler and a baker. Then Genesis 40:23 tells us that the butler forgot Joseph; God isn’t there just a few more dots to be connected? God continued, Dot #10, Pharaoh has a dream and the butler remembers Joseph, Dot #11, Joseph is elevated to second in command in Egypt, Dot #12, there is a famine in the land of Joseph’s father, Dot #13, Joseph’s brothers come to buy food, Dot #14, Joseph’s brothers bow down, Dot #15, Joseph is reunited with his father; and the picture is complete.

Philippians 1:6 promises, “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” God is faithful! Although at times it may seem that there are a few dots missing or they are all jumbled, His plan for your life is not incomplete or without direction. If God has given you a dream with the beginning and ending dots, allow him to slowly fill in the “in between” one dot at a time. When you look back at the whole picture, you will be able to see every dot along the way and exactly how God connected them to accomplish His perfect will in your life.

DO YOU EVEN KNOW MY NAME?

2011-03-08T14:46:00.001-05:00

In the 1980’s there was a television show named Cheers. I must pause here and say I did not watch this sitcom nor am I advocating that anyone else watch it, but it has a message that today’s churches should study and apply. The show was about a bar, the people who congregated their every day and the ups and downs of their lives. The characters were from all socio-economic levels, they were different ages and different careers, yet they were together sharing life. The theme song portrays why the story worked and thousands would tune in each week to participate in this fantasy life; at least for half an hour.

♪♪ Making your way in the world today takes everything you've got;
     Taking a break from all your worries sure would help a lot.
     Wouldn't you like to get away?
     Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name,
     And they're always glad you came;
     You want to be where you can see, our troubles are all the same;
     You want to be where everybody knows your name. ♪♪

We live in a world full of hurting, exhausted people. Just making it day to day takes everything we’ve got then on top of that pile emergencies, tragedies, lost jobs, illness, homes torn apart, broken children, addictions and any other issue you can imagine. It is no wonder that we just want to get away from it all, if only for a short time. Why the bar? Why NOT the Church? We all agree that the bar only offers a temporary band aid to cover the problem while the church offers solutions to fix the problem. So why would someone choose a temporary cover to an eternal solution? Perhaps this line of the song holds the clue; ”Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name, And they're always glad you came.”

When hurting, desperate people come to our services do they find a welcoming atmosphere or are they quickly sized up and labeled as we usher them to a seat. Do we surround them with the warmth of God’s love in our friendly smiles or do they feel the chill of our disapproving stares as we take note of their piercings, body art and unacceptable dress. Have we taken the time to talk to them, get a sense of their hunger, and find out their name? Are we even glad they came?

Several years ago, Steve and I moved to Michigan from Minnesota. We had just resigned the pastorate of a church and were exhausted, bruised, hurting and burned out. We wanted to find a church where we could worship, rest, and heal until God opened the next door. I remember visiting one small church. We walked in, an usher showed us a seat and handed us a card to fill out. The typical service concluded with a time of prayer at the front and we left. The next Sunday we decided to attend the morning service, we walked in, sat down and this time the pastor came up, shook Steve’s hand and asked if we were first time guests. We never returned. This was a church of about 50 people, we had filled out a card the previous Sunday, yet the pastor had not noticed that we were in the pew and had not bothered to read the visitor card and learn our name. This occurred enough times at other locations that we decided it didn’t even matter what the church believed, we would become faithful attendees to the first church who acted like they were glad we had come.

I have determined in my heart that when that wounded soul enters the sanctuary, I will embrace them with God’s love and a warm smile. At the end of our service, I want to know their name and I want them to know that they are in a place where we all have troubles and issues but it is also a place where an eternal answer can be found. When they leave the church we pastor, I want them to be singing, “I’m so very glad I came.”

BUT IT'S JUST A CUP OF WATER!!!

2011-03-07T10:31:00.002-05:00

I know I’m not supposed to feel this way, I’m a Pastor’s Wife and pastor’s wives have it all together, right? We always have the perfect outfit, complete with shoes to fit any occasion, our homes are always clean with everything in place waiting for the unexpected visitor and our dinner parties always included perfectly cooked gourmet recipes presented on a perfectly appointed table, right? Furthermore, no matter what venue I enter, people are drawn to my side with most of them instantly converted as I eloquently teach them the Gospel, right? I always have a smile on my face, am instantly ready to play the piano, sing the perfect song to enhance the sermon, teach Sunday School or plan the perfect extra-curricular activity, right? If anyone from the church we pastor is still reading, please skip the rest of this paragraph. I’m not sure who this describes but it certainly isn’t this Pastor’s wife. Sometimes the smile is just a façade, I pray and labor over a precious soul, only to have them choose a bigger more exciting church, my voice cracks on the high notes, nothing in my closet fits and I usually burn the biscuits.

Is there a perfect pastor’s wife? For too long I have clung to an illusion, feeling so inadequate and overwhelmed. I wonder how and why God would ever choose me to play this part in His plan. According to books and conference sermons, everybody else starts a church with 3 in their homes and begins to look for a building to hold their 150 members the next month. The youth group evangelizes the neighborhood and baptizes 25 in a friend’s swimming pool. The choir comes together and sings songs written by the pastor’s wife to a 50 piece orchestra accompaniment. The prayer meetings are power packed, the children’s pageants are Broadway productions and people are lining up early before service, just to get a seat. Why do you love “them” so much more than me?

I experienced such a day of overwhelming inadequacy last week. The task ahead appears so daunting and everything I try, every idea I have never seems to accomplish what I envision. I hold out my hands to God and my offerings are so meager compared to the crusades, choirs and conferences others proudly present. Tears streamed down my face as I listed all the reasons why God had not chosen the right person. All my fears, inadequacies, attempts and failures poured out of me, mingled with the tears. Mark 9:41 reminds us, “For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward.” “But God,” I wailed, “It’s just a cup of water! I wanted to bring so much more. It’s just a cup of water!”

The word of an old song streamed through my ranting and raving, "If just a cup of water I place within your hand, then just a cup of water is all that I demand.” I dried my tears and stood to my feet with new purpose. I am determined I will carry that cup of water with dignity and care. I will offer a drink from my little cup of water to those who are thirsty. Water from my cup will be used to wash the wounds of those who are hurting. A sip of water from the cup in my hands will bring comfort to those without hope. I will pour out the water from my cup to refresh those who have become discouraged along the journey. God, it’s just a cup of water but it is what has been placed in my hands and I want to empty it for You.

HOW GOES THE BATTLE?

2011-03-04T10:10:00.000-05:00

Some days it feels as if everything we encounter becomes a battle. The alarm clock doesn’t sound and the kids are late for school, the coffee canister is empty, you get behind the lady in the grocery line that must write, record and balance her check book before the clerk can finish the transaction, then return home to find that even the dog has not cooperated. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if you could just crawl back into bed and start over? Or as my mother would say, “Go back and get up on the right side of the bed.” You long for someone to sympathize with you, give you hope for tomorrow and make you smile again. If only one person would take the time to ask, “How goes the battle?”

In 1 Samuel 30 we read of David’s really bad day. It was a day that thankfully, most of us will never face. David and his men returned to Ziklag to find that the Amalekites had arrived first, burned the city and taken the women and children captive. There were no encouraging words for David, no friend tapped him on the shoulder and said, “Brother David, how goes the battle?” Instead, the men spoke of stoning him. What do you do when everything goes wrong, your loved ones are being held captive and your trusted friends want to throw stones at you? Give up, start the day over, take a happy pill? The Bible tells us that David encouraged HIMSELF in the Lord!!!

I believe he began to remember all the times that God had led him, delivered him and given him victory over the enemy. After his encouragement session, David went on to the priest and enquired of the Lord what should be done. God told David to pursue the enemy, that he would be victorious and recover all. David obeyed and God was faithful. Hey David, “How goes the battle, now?”

Many times I have received a timely phone call or email from a friend with an encouraging word. I am always so thankful for those Godly men and women who are obedient to the voice of God to pray or send a word as the Lord has impressed them. There are days, however, that nothing changes until I encourage MYSELF in the Lord. Down on my knees I begin to recount God’s faithfulness; the many times of blessing, the times he didn’t just walk with me through the flood, but he carried me, the times of healing, and the times of provision. Then a still, small voice whispers to my heart, “How goes the battle?”

If God has put a friend in your mind today, pray for them, give them a phone call, send an email, and ask them, “How goes the battle?” Let them know all is not lost; they are not in the fight alone; God is faithful and will help them recover all. If on the other hand you are in the midst of the fight, and there are no encouraging phone calls, get down on your knees and enquire of the Lord. He will send His peace and calm the storm. Soon the battle will seem like just a little skirmish and you can face the day with victory. To the question, “How goes the battle?” You can answer, “The battle is not mine, it is the Lord’s!”

CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE

2011-03-02T10:25:00.000-05:00

Have you ever read a “Choose Your Own Adventure” book? The author creates a list of characters, a scenario and a list of events but leaves the ending up to the reader. Usually there are 3 different endings dependent upon the decisions made by the leading character and the reader gets to choose the decisions. Our life is a “choose your own adventure.” God places each one of us in the midst of a list of characters, sets the stage and presents various opportunities then we get to choose. The list of opportunities is determined by the most important choice; do we submit our life to God or follow after our own desires. Throughout our life every decision sets the path to the next opportunity that ultimately culminates in choosing our final destination. When we reach the end, our life choices determines whether we “Go Home” or “Pass Away” into eternity.

John and Fred started out on their life’s journey in similar fashion. Both men grew up in large southern families with limited religious experiences in their early years. Their paths did not cross until they reached adulthood, became brothers-in-law and forged a close friendship. Life continued, both men worked hard, bought homes, had loving wives with the same number of children. Sunday afternoons were full of laughter and good food, holidays were shared with more good food, gifts for all and lots of love. The children were close, trading nights at each house, playing endless days of baseball in the back yard and sharing their childish dreams. In the early years of the relationship, however, John made a choice to follow a path that Fred refused to pursue. At 23 years old, John gave his heart to God and everything in his life changed.

Although he chose to follow God, John was not a perfect man. There were times in his life that his humanity got in the way and a wrong choice was made but because he had a heart for God, God would gently nudge him back onto the path and life continued. As John’s children grew, he took them to church, taught them the ways of God and rejoiced as each one made their own decision to be baptized and was filled with the Holy Ghost. Throughout Fred’s life, however, he continued to resist the voice of God. He made choices that set the course of his life and stood by as the choices were transferred to his children. As his children would feel the drawing of God in their own hearts, Fred would discourage them from moving toward God, telling them there would be time to decide when they were older. The children began to follow the same path as Fred, making choices that led them further from the life chosen by John’s family.

The men grew old and became ill. John learned that he had a horrible disease and would not live long. He used this space of time to examine his life, correct the wrong choices, forgive and be forgiven by those who had been offended. John went home to be with the Lord with his loving wife by his side. His home-going service was a celebration of a life well-lived. The tears of sadness were replaced with the knowledge that it was just a temporary situation and someday soon the family would be reunited. Fred also suffered for some time with a disease. He used his space of time to continue his life as he always had, loving his wife, kids and grandkids and doing all the things he desired. A convenient time for God never came. One day Fred told his wife he was tired, lay down on the bed and never woke up. Fred “passed away.” The funeral was held at a church, which Fred had never attended, a minister-acquaintance spoke nice words in an attempt to comfort the family as sad tears ran down sorrowful faces. There was no hope; Fred had “passed away.”

We are each given a space of time that begins the moment we take our first breath until we breathe our last. During that time God presents various opportunities as He draws us unto Himself. How we respond to each of those opportunities is our choice. For those who turn aside and follow their own pursuits, God’s mercy continues to reach until He hears the final NO!!! God doesn’t love the person who submits to Him more than the person who rebels but the end has a different outcome. It’s your choice!!! When my space of time ends, will I have chosen to “Go Home” or “Pass Away?” It’s my adventure and I choose the ending.

HOW TO DEFEAT THE BULLY

2011-02-24T12:36:00.001-05:00

Have you ever experienced or witnessed a playground bully at work? He will evaluate the various groups and zero in on the smallest, weakest, or loneliest person. Once the bully has chosen his “mark” his goal is to insert himself into the circle and disrupt all activities, instill fear and in general make life miserable. If he can infiltrate and consume the life of the “mark,” he feels important because he is now, “Top Dog.” The only way to defeat a bully is to face him and give him a dose of his own medicine. Also, having a big, strong friend to stand by you is a definite bonus.

When my son, Philip was in 8th grade, he experienced a bully. The other student picked on him and tormented him until finally Phil reached the breaking point. I was not aware of the situation until one day Philip came home from school with bruises, a bloody nose and broken glasses. It seems the other student came at Phil one last time in the locker room. Something inside of Phil, said, “Not this time!” He turned and unloaded on the other kid. I will never forget his words as he relayed all the details of the encounter. He said, “Mom I know I shouldn’t have been fighting, but it felt so good!” To my knowledge, the bully never bothered Philip again.

Satan reminds me of the playground bully. Like the bully, he lurks around, observing the group, choosing his next victim, and just waiting for an opportunity to disrupt and instill discord and fear. 1 Peter 5:8 tells us, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walks about, seeking whom he may devour.” He will wait until we are at our most vulnerable, and then rush in with lies, temptation, and discouragement. He thrives on picking at you until he becomes the focus of your day. There are other times that the devil attacks when we seem to be at our strongest. The minute you get your eyes off him and focus on your relationship with God, you can bank on Satan making an appearance; this time with reinforcements. If he cannot bully you through temptation or discouragement, he will use a friend or a “Christian” brother or sister to begin the process. Turn around, look him in the eye and say “NOT THIS TIME SATAN!!!”

Isaiah 59:19 promises, “When the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against him.” Suddenly, we aren’t in this fight alone. When Satan looks up and sees our big strong friend joining the fight, the dynamics instantly change. Fully equipped with the necessary weapons, you can finally turn and unload on him. He will scamper off with his tail between his legs looking for someone a little less confrontational. You may come out of the scuffle with a few bruises a bloody nose or broken glasses, but on your knees you can look up to Jesus with a victorious smile and say, “It felt so good!”

HELP, MY BETTER ANGEL IS MISSING IN ACTION

2011-02-22T19:20:00.001-05:00

Over the last few years, I have heard politicians and journalists repeat the phrase, “our better angels” with increasing frequency. This is not a phrase that I had ever heard used in my circle of friends and family. So, what does it mean? It sounds good, but I’ve learned that every phrase and cliché that sounds good sometimes has a deeper meaning that may not be so pure. The first reference to “our better angels,” is found in Abraham Lincoln’s first Inaugural Address. President Lincoln uses the phrase, “by the better angels of our nature,” in asking the United States to come together as one and preserve the Union. President Obama has used this quote several times, most recently in reference to the Arizona shooting of a Senator. My question is do we really have a “better angel in our nature?” And if we do, does that mean there is a “worse angel” in our nature?”

In the beginning, God created man in His own image. Man was pure and sinless but it didn’t take long for the “worse angel” to come along. Satan presented an offer that obviously mankind could not resist. Sin entered the picture and the war began. In Romans, the Apostle Paul discusses the lifelong struggle in a most unique way. Romans 7:15 says, “For what I am doing, I do not understand. For what I will to do, that I do not practice; but what I hate, that I do. He goes on in verse 18 and 19, “For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find. 19 For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice. It seems that we all suffer from the same malady as the Apostle Paul; we are all infected with the SIN NATURE. We want to do the right thing but our flesh seems to always choose the other. Some may call it a tug of war between the better angels and the worse angels of our nature, but the Bible calls it a war between the Spirit and the Flesh.

Now then, should I just give up? Does good ever win? According to Paul, nothing good dwells in us; so much for the “better angel.” Paul even calls himself a “wretched man” and asks, “Who will deliver me from this body of death?” Hey, Paul, maybe now would be a good time to call on the “better angel of your nature.” But the great Apostle realized that it wasn’t the “better angel” that was going to change his will but it was, as he states in Romans 7:25, “I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

The idea of a “better angel” with a halo on one shoulder and a “worse angel” with horns and a pitch fork on the other is really only a cartoon. There is a constant battle between our carnality and God’s holiness and our carnality will be victorious every time unless we submit our will to Jesus Christ our Lord. Galatians 5:16 gives us the antidote to our malady and the key to defeating our carnal nature, “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.” Our greatest weapon to winning the war; Walking in the Spirit. So if the “better angel of your nature” seems to be missing in action, the best place to begin your search is on your knees. Submit your will to God and soon you will stop doing that which you hate and discover how to perform that which is good.

HE DELIGHTS IN ME

2011-02-21T09:42:00.001-05:00

Recently, I spent two weeks taking care of my two grandsons, Caleb and Nathan. Their mom was in the hospital giving birth to their little sister, Maicie, who made an appearance 6 weeks early. Grandma was privileged to spend some quality time with the boys until Maicie was strong enough to come home. We played games, read books, told stories, talked and cuddled. I learned which were their favorite toys, movies and books. They showed off their climbing, jumping and tumbling skills and I marveled at their strength and intelligence. It didn’t take much to entertain Grandma and get her to smile. Sitting one day enjoying their antics, I realized how much I delighted in every little thing about them. Caleb’s scribbles on plain paper were works of art, Nathan’s happy dance was worthy of awards, just hearing my name whispered or yelled gave me immense pleasure. What was it about these 2 little people that evoked such emotion within me? Sure all little kids have cute moments but there was something different about these two. You see, they don’t have to perform to get Grandma’s approval; it is enough to just spend time with them because they are MY grandchildren and I delight in them.

Did you know that God delights in us? Proverbs 12 and 11 tells us that God delights in us when we deal truly and are upright in our ways. According to Proverbs 15, our prayers are His delight. Psalms 37:23 says that when our steps are ordered by the Lord, He delights in our way. Just as I feel great joy at my grandchildren’s accomplishments and obedience, God delights in us when He sees that we want to follow His leading and obey His Word. He cheers us on when He sees us make the extra effort to please Him and allow Him to accomplish His will through us. As a grandmother, however, there is no greater joy than just being with my precious grandchildren, hearing their voice and holding them close. Oh, how it must fill God’s heart with delight when we set aside time just to be in His presence, to tell Him our deepest desires or sit at His feet as He speaks to us.

Psalms 18:19 says, “He brought me forth into a large place; He delivered me because He delighted in me.” I love this verse because it doesn’t speak of my performance. It isn’t about me doing, or praying or following, but it just says HE DELIGHTS IN ME! Sometimes, God pours out a special blessing on us just because we are HIS CHILDREN and He DELIGHTS IN US.

Psalms 37:4 tells us to “Delight in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart.” What a wonderful promise from God that is made even more wonderful by the knowledge that at the same time I am delighting myself in the Lord, He is delighting in me.

A WANTED CHILD

2011-02-14T18:47:00.000-05:00

I don’t remember a time when I felt unloved, because there has never been one. There have been times when I was unlovable and undeserving of love but I still felt completely loved. Long before I knew there was a God who loved me unconditionally, I felt that love through my Dad and Mom. Like all infants, there was nothing I could do to earn the love of my parents. I was demanding and self-serving with no thought of anyone or anything but my needs, yet they loved me. My Mother made sure that a day did not pass without me hearing her say, “I love you.” Even today, every phone call ends with her assuring me that I am loved. Every card tells me I am special and that I was loved from the moment of my first breath. I was definitely a “wanted” child.

Perhaps, this is why it is so easy for me to believe that God loves me beyond imagination and I am His “wanted” child. The Bible, God’s love letter, tells me in 1 John 4:10, “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us.” It is not such a miracle that I love God because He is worthy of such love. The miracle is that He loves me, not because I love Him, not because I perform acts of kindness, not because I am a good person but because I am His creation. His heart longs for me; I am a “wanted” child.

Can you imagine what would happen if we could ever really understand and accept God’s perfect love for us? We would follow Him without question, knowing that wherever he leads us there is a rainbow with a pot of gold. We would be bold to tell everyone we meet about this amazing circle of love that surrounds them too. Every hardship and trial would be endured with gladness of heart, confident that it is just part of the shaping process in our life. All fear and doubt would disappear because His perfect love casts out all fear. Just as a baby rests in total peace, so would we, knowing that all our needs would be supplied according to His riches in Glory. We would walk with our head held high confident that we are a “wanted “child.

On this Valentine’s Day, I want to grab hold and never let go of the fact that “He loves me with an everlasting love” and I am a “wanted” child.

CHECK YOUR WINDOW SILLS

2011-02-07T10:21:00.000-05:00

Pondering the situation, I realized how thankful I am for windows. The sills reflected what a great job the window had done in trapping the dirt and bugs before they took up residence in my house. God created our bodies with some pre-emptive devices to protect important sensitive areas from ingesting the filth and germs that swirl around us every day. If you are the mother of daughters or are extra sensitive, you may want to stop reading now or write your own ending to the story. I am the mother of two boys and believe me when you raise boys; all sensitivity quickly flies out the window. With boys, bodily fluids and noises were not subjects to sweep under the rug or discreetly discuss in hushed tones. OH NO!!! They were loudly proclaimed, a subject of masculine rivalry and at times actually celebrated. Now that you understand how my mind works, blow your nose, clean out your ears and wash the sleep out of your eyes. These are all systems that must be cleaned from time to time; systems that protect the body from ingesting foreign objects that would harm delicate tissue. If you never blew your nose, you would finally be unable to breath. Ears can become so plugged, that it seems you are hearing everything from inside a barrel and of course who would want their eyes glued shut with the goop that accumulates every night while you sleep? We make sure to take care of our bodily hygiene every day but what about our spiritual hygiene?

We have repented and turned toward Christ, our sins have been washed away through baptism and He has filled our emptied soul with the Holy Ghost. The inside is all clean!!! We live by the motto, WWJD. Our homes have been set up as a testimony, there are certain places and situations we shun, and we are careful to let our speech glorify God. The outside is all clean!!!! Before we settle back and rest in what God has accomplished in our life, CHECK THE WINDOW SILL. What is lurking in the corners, down in the wells and under the layer of dust we have allowed to accumulate. We still live in a world that doesn’t follow WWJD. We are bombarded with filthy words, images and evil imaginations every day. Although we may guard our heart and refuse to embrace the world’s view of life, we have to daily cleanse the accumulation from our mind. The Apostle Paul says it in such an eloquent fashion in Philippians 4:8 “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Spending a little time with the Lord, listening to Godly music, reading a passage of scripture, and just allowing His love to gently wipe away all the outside crud will keep all the pre-emptive devices in good working order. If you haven’t checked the window sills of your heart in a while, take a few minutes, you’ll be reaching for the paper towels and Windex, with lightening speed.

I, PRIDE, MYSELF

2011-02-03T13:32:00.000-05:00

While listening to a sermon audio of a recent conference, I heard one of the speakers make the following statement, “I pride myself in usually knowing what to do.” What was it about this statement that just didn’t seem quite right? Three words, Pride sandwiched between I and Myself.

The dictionary defines pride as, “high or inordinate opinion of one's own dignity, importance, merit, or superiority.” Is God concerned with pride? Oh, yes! The word, “Pride,” is found 46 times in the KJ version of the Bible. We can all quote Proverbs 16:18, “Pride goeth before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall.” Romans 1 goes even further and lists pride as a sin worthy of death, right beside fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness, envy, murder, backbiters, and haters of God. Whoa, pride the same as a hater of God? What’s wrong with having a little pride? Can’t I take pride in my appearance, my accomplishments, things I’ve worked hard for and earned? Look closely at your questions, pride cannot be mentioned without using the word I, my, me, myself or mine. Herein lies the problem with pride, one of the attributes God hates. Pride omits God from our accomplishments, who we are and with what we have been blessed. All glory belongs to God and He will NOT share it with anyone even you or me.

In the Bible we find an account of Saul, Israel’s first king. Saul’s humbleness was apparent when Samuel first spoke with him. Saul reminded Samuel that he was a Benjamite, from the smallest tribe of Israel and when the time came for him to be anointed king, he went and hid. Let’s jump ahead a few years; what a change. Saul began to believe his "own press;" power and position now defined him. Eventually pride totally consumed him and we read the sad conclusion in 1 Samuel 15:17, “And Samuel said, When thou was little in thine own sight, was thou not made the head of the tribes of Israel, and the Lord anointed thee king over Israel?” Verse 23, “Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king.” Pride cost King Saul his favor with God, his peace of mind, his kingdom and finally his life. What a high price to pay for “myself,” “I will,” and “my way.”

Mankind has had a problem with pride since he listened to the serpent in the garden. I have never met a person who does not struggle daily with pride. My personal war with pride always ends with a fall; either I fall on my knees or I fall on my face. I have found it to be a softer landing when I fall on my knees and let God strip my pride away. As His face comes into view and I allow His will to replace my plans, my accomplishments and my desires, I realize that I am nothing without God. “Dear God, I need your grace to help me to never again “pride myself” in anything but in all my ways acknowledge You.”

GIVE ME JESUS AND STARBUCKS AND......

2011-01-11T17:02:00.004-05:00

When I was in college, I had to take a 300 level management class. One of the few things I remember from this class is the importance of a mission statement to an organization. It defines who you are as an organization, your philosophy, your goals and your targeted market. By having a written definition of your organization, management is able to narrow its focus to those things that will fulfill the organization’s goals and ultimate success. Many organizations have failed not because of bad ideas or personnel but because in neglecting to define goals their focus became too broad. I worked for an investor who became wealthy by purchasing distressed rental properties at a low price. This worked for him for several years until he decided to branch out into the hospitality industry. His focus changed and the new ventures became a drain on his proven companies. He eventually divested himself of the losing properties and regained his focus after learning a painful lesson.

Having been raised in dynamic churches, I have had wonderful examples in all areas of ministry. God has placed beautiful, dedicated pastor’s wives, Sunday school teachers, worship leaders, counselors, prayer warriors and people with other callings in my life. I have learned valuable lessons from each and many I have tried to emulate in the callings that God placed in my heart. As a young person, I found myself longing to be used in a specific ministry because the people involved seemed to be so happy, so loved and so blessed. Other times I have gotten involved in certain ministries only to find myself discouraged and frustrated. After many years of “spinning my wheels,” I finally realized that God would lead me into the perfect ministry He had planned for my talents and personality. Once I developed a “Mission Statement” based on God’s plan for me, I found joy in serving and spiritual fulfillment. I was able to pray for others to be used in their call without longing or jealousy at their success.

A few years ago, a man came to start a church in the town in which we were living. He came full of zeal, with a plan and a time frame. To his dismay, his plan included a Starbucks and our town didn’t have a Starbucks. Then he found out it also didn’t have a specific donut or ice cream shop. He continued for a few years but was never able to focus his vision on a strategy that would fit the field he had chosen for his labor. After a time of frustration, he left to fulfill another dream as a manager of a Starbucks. It doesn’t matter whether you work at Starbucks, a Fortune 500 company or are in full-time ministry, let the call of God not your place of employment define your ministry.

If God has placed a burden on your heart ask God to show you where to start. If it is sharing the gospel with hungry hearts, don’t get hung up on the brand of coffee you want to serve, the style of music you envision playing or the fact that you don’t have the personnel for multiple programs. If God wants you to write, don’t worry about who will publish your book, God will open that door. If you have a desire to speak, find a volunteer opportunity that will get you few pats on the back and little applause. In due season, God will reward your efforts and provide the stage. If you will keep your focus on developing a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ, all these “things” will fall into place. Remember, you and Jesus are a majority and He can accomplish His will through you without a Starbucks, a magnificent building or flashing lights. Just give me Jesus!

THE SWEETEST HOUR

2010-12-29T22:32:00.000-05:00

As I walked into the kitchen, I could feel it; it would be “one of those days.” Actually, it had been “one of those weeks.” You know what I’m talking about, we’ve all had the experience. Nothing was going as planned. I had a pile of laundry to wash, Christmas shopping to finish, the cookies were over baked, music still to be selected for Sunday Service and the view outside the window proved that even the weather was refusing to cooperate. In addition, my opinion had burst out at the wrong time; I couldn’t believe that he actually thought…and that she was still…. I’m sure if I still had dogs, there would have been muddy footprints tracking through the house. I WAS AGGRAVATED!!!!

Finally, the first load of laundry was folded and the bed was made but the dark cloud hanging over my head just wouldn’t lift. The whole world was against me and I was just trying to serve the Lord. Suddenly, the words of an old hymn found their way through the fog into my thoughts. “Sweet hour of prayer! Sweet hour of prayer! That calls me from a world of care.” Nice song, I definitely need something to “call me from a world of care.” I continued into the living room, and the words of the song continued in my mind, “In seasons of distress and grief, my soul has often found relief, and oft escaped the tempter's snare.” The fog lifted and everything suddenly became crystal clear, I had missed the sweetest hour of the day. Actually, it had been a couple of days.

The laundry could stay in the dryer, the dishes would still be waiting and the Christmas Cards could be mailed tomorrow, I had an appointment that was just too important to miss. I knelt down in my favorite spot and let the peace of God flood my spirit. “Sweet hour of prayer! Sweet hour of prayer! Thy wings shall my petition bear. To him who’s truth and faithfulness engage the waiting soul to bless. And since he bids me seek his face, believe his word, and trust his grace.”

Our lives become so cluttered with so many ‘absolute have-tos”, some are even service to God. The demands on our time can become overwhelming and emotionally draining. The only antidote is to make the “sweetest hour of the day” a part of your routine. It is amazing how setting aside only one of your twenty four hours smoothes the way for the other twenty three. Oh, Sweet Hour of Prayer, my day became brighter, the tasks were accomplished in record time and I was able to view my friends with more love and compassion. “I'll cast on him my every care, and wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer!”

THE PEOPLE GOD WANTS!!!

2010-12-11T10:12:00.000-05:00

Rebecca Manley Pippert tells the story of Bill from Portland Oregon. Bill was a brilliant, eccentric student at the Oregon College who moved to his own drumbeat and refused political correctness or societal expectations. There was a well-dressed, middle-class church across the street from the college. They felt a burden to reach out to the students and welcome them into their service. It just so happens about that time, Bill found the Lord. One Sunday, Bill decided to worship at the church across the street. He walked into church wearing blue jeans, a t-shirt and of course no shoes. The church was quit crowded and Bill, finding no seat, simply walked down the aisle to the front pew and simply squatted down on the floor. Suddenly, an elderly man began walking down the aisle toward the boy. What was he going to say to the brash college student? He would probably “straighten out” this young man, such disrespect simply could not be allowed in the House of God. The congregation held its collective breath. When the elderly man reached Bill, he simply lowered himself to sit beside Bill on the carpet. He and Bill worshiped together on the carpet that Sunday morning. There was not a dry eye in the congregation.

How many “Bills” have walked through our church doors, felt the chill of the condescending stares and walked out, never to return. How many “Bills” have we passed on the street and looked the other way because they didn’t fit our soul-winning vision. Matt Maddix, a popular soul-winning evangelist, has coined the phrase, “If you reach for the people nobody wants, God will give you the people everybody wants.” TRUE!!! Another speaker has said, “If you reach for the people nobody wants, God will MAKE them the people everybody wants.” TRUE!!! As I thought about these phrases, I thought about all the people I come in contact every day. Some are wealthy, educated, poor, illiterate, intellectual, mentally-challenged, athletic, handicapped, well-dressed, and others are homeless. They are all the people that make up my world. The people Jesus died for! The people God wants!!!

The Bible tells us that Jesus came to “seek and save those who are lost.” When Jesus came, he didn’t check out the demographics, take a poll or target a specific socio-economic group. Who did Jesus “hang” with? A rich, young ruler consulted with Jesus, there was a little widow who had a simple “mite” to put in the offering, a prostitute washed his feet, and he debated with the priests in the temple. His immediate circle consisted of fishermen, wealthy tax-collectors, a wild, wilderness-loving cousin; he had a humble young girl for a mother and the village carpenter for a father. Jesus reached out to the demon-possessed, the epileptics, paralytics and lepers, children, military commanders, the religious elite and sinners. There was no one too great or too unimportant for Jesus to reach for, can we say the same?

We are commanded to go into ALL the world; we don’t have the right to be selective. Take a look around the world in which you live, is there a “Bill” you passed over because he wasn’t in the place you were looking. Maybe he didn’t fit your vision of the ideal “Christian.” Perhaps his ideas didn’t fit your religious philosophy. “Bill” is one of the people God wants!!! I am praying that God removes all prejudice, preconceived ideas and clears my vision to see all the people that are hungry to experience what I have; all the people God wants.

YOU'VE REALLY BEEN GOOD TO ME

2010-11-30T20:20:00.000-05:00

Today is the last day of what some call a “Month of Thanksgiving.” Many have used this occasion to post a different thing every day for which they are thankful. I have enjoyed reading the diverse assortment of important things in the lives of my friends. One of the striking characteristics of their thankfulness is that very few material things were listed. We put so much importance on jobs, houses, automobiles, clothing and, of course, the latest electronics but when we actually take the time to give thanks, it is about friends, family, relationships, life and health.

A couple of weeks ago, I decided to clean out the filing cabinet. Perched on a stool, with the shredder on the kitchen counter and a stack of file folders to sort, the purging began. It began as a methodical exercise; limiting the archives to this year’s statements, important contracts and year- end tax returns, shredding previous year’s paperwork and emptying the shredder, over and over. After the files were purged, shredded, renamed for new accounts and organized, I moved on to old check files. Ten years of old checks were just begging to be fed to the hungry shredder, when an attitude of gratitude inserted itself into the process.

I began to look at the canceled checks and realized they told the story of my life for the past 10 years. There were checks to mortgage companies paying for a house, a cottage and a church/office building. I had to take a praise break! Thank you Lord for a beautiful home, memories of summer fun at the cottage and for all the hearts that were touched and changed at the church. More checks, this time with the names of several friends and family members; birthdays, Christmas, weddings, anniversaries, new babies and other special occasions. Thank you Lord for each person you have allowed to share my life and thank you for allowing me to bless them as they have blessed me. I moved on to checks for utilities, insurance, home maintenance, car payments all of which I’m sure were complained about at the time but now represented a bounty of blessings from God. Another praise break! I’m thankful for warmth in the winter, cool air in the summer, the freedom to travel short and long distances and the finances to cover all the repairs. There were payments to doctors, dentists, and even the government. Thank you for good health, root canals and caps and enough wealth to pay taxes. (Not happy about the taxes but thankful for a good job.) Finally, there were checks to charities and tithes and offerings to church. Thank you, God that you provided all of our needs, many of our wants and enough to share with those less fortunate. You really cannot out give God.

As I returned to the task of shredding, my heart was overwhelmed by the goodness of God. He truly is Jehovah-Jireh, my provider. The “Month of Thanksgiving” may have come to an end but the gratefulness continues year round. Lord, you’ve really been good to me.

SO I TAUGHT YOU TO TRUST GOD

2010-11-15T09:21:00.001-05:00

When you began to walk, I wanted to keep you from falling, I could not so I stood by ready to pick you up, bandage the scrapes and kiss away the tears. When it was time for you to enter kindergarten, I wanted to protect your young ears and eyes from the influences of an evil world, I could not so I taught you to turn away from evil and toward the beauty of God. When you joined your friends on the playground, I wanted to protect you from the bullies, the teasing and their hurtful words, I could not so I provided a loving home you could always run to and told you about a “friend that would never leave you or forsake you.” As you approached adulthood, I wanted to keep you from failing, but I could not, so I taught you to get up and try again, that the mercies of God are new every morning and by never giving up you would achieve success. As you began to win and life’s success came your way, I wanted to protect you from the pitfalls of pride, I could not so I taught you to be thankful and give all Glory to God. Now you are a man and I would still like to protect you from the world, but I cannot so I stand by and watch with a prayerful heart as you prepare your children to deal with their own scrapes and bruises.

On Saturday, my youngest son, Phil and his wife Holly faced the hardest trial of their life; saying goodbye to their little son, Timothy Lee. I wanted to run, pick him up and kiss away the tears but I could not so in prayer I asked our Heavenly Father to surround him with His love. I knew that my sadness at the loss of my little grandson could not compare to the grief Phil and Holly were experiencing as their tiny son was born. Sunday afternoon, Phil posted the following words to his friends and family:

“Unfortunately, we have sad news to report. On Saturday, Holly and I found that the baby we were expecting died in utero 16 weeks into the pregnancy. Holly delivered little Timothy Lee Niswonger on 11/13 at 4:24 pm. As I held him, I knew that he had been created by the very hand of God. We appreciate all of your prayers as we get through this. Praise be to God.”

The tests we face in life are never the specific events but our response to the events. Phil, I have never been more proud of you as I watch your strength and faith in action during this most difficult time. I may not be able to bandage the scrapes, wipe away the tears or make the pain go away but I know that you will keep holding to God’s unchanging hand and that He will guide you through the dark nights to the joy of the morning.

I CAN CLIMB, IF YOU HELP

2010-11-05T08:07:00.000-04:00

We have lived in Tennessee about a month now and we were so excited to have our two grandsons come for a visit. They brought their mom and dad with them, but as all grandparents know, our hearts really long for the grandkids. I stocked the pantry with kid-friendly food, prepared the beds and hauled out the toys. We planned various activities, including a trip to our local park. The park has a walking path that meanders over a creek and is beautifully decorated with several fall displays. Of course the most important features of the park are the various play areas along the walking path. There are swings, slides, monkey bars, a pretend stage coach and several other things on which to swing, climb, hang and bounce. We rounded a curve and an area caught Caleb’s eye; the climbing wall. Nathan followed close behind because anything his 3 1/2 year old brother can do, 1 1/2 year old Nathan will try.

Caleb immediately figured out the hand and foot holds and after watching his brother for a few minutes, Nathan decided to give it a try. His little legs wouldn’t reach the first foot holds and his little arms didn’t have the strength to pull his body up the wall. After watching his desire and struggle for a few seconds, Mommy and Grandma immediately moved in to help. His face lit up with a big smile as he peeked over the top of the wall. VICTORY!!! It didn’t matter that he needed a little boost; someone a little older and stronger to help him to the top, all Nathan cared about was that he had reached the top and was viewing the world from a whole new perspective.

Now of course that is my Grandbaby and my heart melts with compassion at the least little cry for help no matter what situation he has gotten himself into, but what about the new baby in Christ. What about our Brother or Sister in the Lord who has been going to church long enough to “know better?” Do we rush in with a helping hand and strong arm or do we merely watch from the sidelines with a sharp tongue?

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 says,” Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their labor, for if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up.” Recently, Steve preached a sermon entitled, “Walk together or Fall Alone.” He reminded us that we need each other. If you have been serving the Lord for any length of time, you know that we all experience times of weakness and discouragement. We may be able to, as David, “encourage ourselves in the Lord,” but how much sweeter the journey becomes when we have a brother or sister to walk along beside us.

The words of an old song come to mind, “If I can help somebody as I travel along, then my living will not be in vain.” I have a responsibility, not just for my own walk with God but to lend a helping hand to a struggling brother or sister along the way. There are time we could all use a little boost whether it’s a strong arm giving a little hug, an encouraging word, knowing someone is taking the time to pray especially for my situation or a friendly phone call letting me know I was on God’s mind. Extend a hand to someone today, climb together and share the glorious view at the top with a fellow traveler; we are in this life together.

READY AND WAITING

2010-10-26T10:21:00.001-04:00

My Grandsons are coming in 2 days. I am so excited and counting down the hours. We have lived in Tennessee for a month and we are ready for visitors. Tennessee is 10 hours south of our 2 grandsons and 16 hours south of our 3 granddaughters. Do I miss them? I refuse to allow myself to think about the distance or I would be in tears half the time. Cell phones are great inventions. For very little cost and at anytime, I can reach out and touch each one. Granted it isn’t as sweet as a hug but hearing their little voices and happy squeals of laughter takes off a little of the sharp edge.

I have been preparing for days. The house is clean, there are fresh linens on the beds, the cupboard is stocked with their favorite foods, special events are planned and I have little surprises set aside for each one; all in anticipation of their arrival. I cannot even imagine the disappointment, if I suddenly receive a phone call saying their travel plans have been cancelled. Or the panic that would change to a deep wound, if they never show on Wednesday evening and call later to say a more important opportunity had presented itself. I’m pretty confident that won’t happen because the grandkids are just as excited as the grandparents.

Are we as excited to visit with our Heavenly Father as He is with us? I wonder how He feels when we get to busy or simply forget to take a little time with Him. My imagination pictures this heavenly scenario: God says to the angels, “A new day has dawned; soon my children will be coming for a little chat. The table is spread with all their favorites; I’ve even included a few new and fresh revelations. I have great plans for them today and some surprise blessings that I just can’t wait to shower down on them. I’m waiting in the throne room, they will be here soon.” The day continues without even a hello. “Surely they will stop in for a few minutes to say goodnight.” The week continues and Sunday dawns. The excitement in Heaven builds; today is a special day, almost like a birthday. “I know they will arrive today.” I can see them now, dressed in their finest clothes, my Book in hand, walking into my earthly houses with joyful smiles, excited to be in My Presence.” Many show up, the music swells and the praise ring forth, but how the heart of God must ache for those who chose something more important.

Just as I long to hold my grandsons, read and sing to them, bless them with gifts and share my plans with them, God longs to have a close relationship with His children. By ignoring Him, you are not only missing out on the blessings but you are passing up His love, peace, direction for your life and all that Heaven has to offer. Many years ago, Jesus went to prepare a place for you, it is almost completed and He is getting ready to take those who have been in close communication with Him to live there. Today would be the perfect time to check in with God, let Him share His heart with you, shower you with everyday blessings and give you the peace and comfort you’ve been missing. How devastated to be too busy with more important opportunities to hear His voice on the very day Heaven was waiting to welcome you home. He is just a prayer away and He is waiting.

DEVOURING OUR OWN IS CANNIBALISM

2010-10-21T13:34:00.000-04:00

The television ads are becoming nastier, attacking individual characters, full of false accusations and edited sound bites. The Liberals are frantically digging for “dirt” on the Conservatives and the Republicans are accusing the Democrats of destroying the country. Every “stump” speech, interview, or past action is swiftly analyzed to use in the next attack ad. We are in the middle of an intense political season. As the days tick down to November 2 the rhetoric is ramped up. This is to be expected in a free country that regards Freedom of Speech as guaranteed by our Constitution to be one of our most important freedoms.

I have observed on several occasions that most people fiercely defend the issue of Freedom of Speech as long as the speech agrees with their philosophy. How quickly the tide turns, however, when the speech becomes controversial, even if it is declaring a truth. This week we have witnessed two regulars on a popular talk show, marching off the stage in anger because a guest dared to express his personal opinion on an issue. That incident was permissible to most viewers because it was one political viewpoint against another. But what happens when a group turns against its own? If we began to devour our own, whatever the reason, we are practicing cannibalism.

Yesterday, Juan Williams, Senior News Analyst for NPR and commentator on Fox News was fired for making a statement regarding Muslims. Juan is known as a moderately liberal commentator and had worked for NPR, known for their liberal philosophies, for 10 years. NPR accused Mr. Williams of making a bigoted statement regarding a reaction he experienced personally. So much for Freedom of Speech; at NPR, censorship appears to reign supreme. As a country we must be careful to allow speech that does not agree with us in order to preserve our own freedom to be controversial at times. Contrary speech allows us to examine our own philosophies, possibly learn something new and solidify the truth in our own minds. If this is true of a nation, how much more important it is in the Church of God.

As a church are we guilty of devouring our own because they speak, worship or look just a little different than what we have established as “religiously correct?” Just as the United States has a constitution that must stand as the final authority on issues, the church has the Word of God that contains eternal truth. Does that mean we destroy those who may have a differing view point or have not yet attained our superior understanding of the Bible? The early church narrowly escaped “spiritual cannibalism” due to the strength and wisdom of one of their leaders. In Acts 11, Peter was taken to task for going to Cornelius’ home and eating with him. The problem; Cornelius was an uncircumcised gentile. Peter’s reply was so perfect, “So if God gave them the same gift as he gave us, who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to think that I could oppose God?” By Acts 15, we find that the Circumcised Believers had formed a Council. The issue: “Unless you were circumcised, you could not be saved!” Again, Peter was called on to settle the dispute. Peter pointed out that God had accepted the uncircumcised by giving them the Holy Spirit, making no distinction between the circumcised and uncircumcised because of their faith. Peter went on to ask, “Now then, why do you try to test God by putting on the necks of the disciples a yoke that neither we nor our fathers have been able to bear?” Or in my vernacular, “Why are you trying to cannibalize these new Christians who look and act a little different from you?” Peter’s last statement settled the issue, “No! We believe it is through the grace of our Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are. Let’s not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God.”

As “mature” Christians, let us embrace those who enter our church circle whether they speak the same language, wear the same clothes, have the same understanding or appear to be completely foreign in speech, dress and interpretation. Listen carefully, you may learn something or realize you are the one in error. Maybe their speech or dress is a mask for other experiences of rejection and they were hoping that just maybe that “Love of God” you speak of was a reality. Perhaps they hadn’t heard that there was another way to live and that God’s word held a promise of freedom from the sins of their past. Just maybe a hug and a gentle leading into truth is what they need instead of being met at the door with sharpened knives and a hot fire. We must always be careful to speak the truth but it must be enveloped with the love of God. Let us not be guilty of Spiritual Cannibalism.

WHAT HOUSES HAVE YOU BUILT?

2010-10-19T14:43:00.001-04:00

During the reign of King Saul, the Ark of God was taken into battle and captured by the Philistines. The Ark was important to the Nation of Israel because it was where once a year the high priest would bring blood as atonement for the sin of all the people, and present it before God at the Mercy Seat. It was also where the manifest presence of God rested. For several years, Israel existed without the Ark until King David made arrangements to have it brought back to Jerusalem. David had a desire to not only bring the Ark home but to build a temple, dedicated to God where the Ark would be housed and all the people could worship. The Bible tells us that instead of David, the privilege of building the temple was given to Solomon, David’s son.

When it came time for David to die and Solomon to ascend to the throne, David instructed his son with these words in the 2nd chapter of 1 Kings: “Be strong, therefore, and prove yourself a man. 3And keep the charge of the Lord your God: to walk in His ways, to keep His statutes, His commandments, His judgments, and His testimonies, as it is written in the Law of Moses, that you may prosper in all that you do and wherever you turn.” 1Kings records further, that when God asked Solomon to request any blessing he desired, Solomon chose wisdom. God was so please with Solomon’s choice that He also gave him riches and honor. The years passed and Solomon completed a great temple in honor of the God of Israel. At the dedication of the temple, the Glory of God so overwhelming filled the temple until the priests were unable to minister. What a glorious day for the God of Israel, the Children of Israel and Solomon.

As the story of Solomon continues, we learn about the part that is not so great or pure or holy. Unfortunately, this is the sad side of Solomon’s life that he describes in Ecclesiastes as “vanity and vexation of the soul.” 2 Chronicles 8:11 Now Solomon brought the daughter of Pharaoh up from the City of David to the house he had built for her, for he said, “My wife shall not dwell in the house of David king of Israel, because the places to which the ark of the Lord has come are holy.” The part I find so striking is not that Solomon built a special house for his wife but the reason for building a house apart from his palace. This verse tells us that Solomon would not allow his wife, who worshiped gods other than Jehovah, to live in the palace because the Ark of the Lord had rested there. His wisdom told him he could not mix the holy with the profane and so another house was built.

What houses am I building? Do I have a house that is Holy unto the Lord, where my thoughts and actions are pure and the praises go forth continually? That is the house I live in on Sunday and in front of my church family and friends. But what about the house I have erected way back in the shadows; the house that is reserved for all the things of this world that I cling to so tightly and visit regularly. These are the things in my life that I don’t like to bring to church or push aside when I am praying; the things that just don’t mix with the part of my life that is dedicated to God. I fool myself into thinking I can live between the two houses; that the possessions of one need never mix or interfere with those of the other. Soon, however, I find that after a visit to my “special house” I have carried over some “dear” attitude or behavior into that which I have reserved for God. Only now I have polluted the Holy because the profane and holy cannot mix. If I want the house I have dedicated to God to remain, I must sacrifice the other house on the altar. Check your plans, are you building a special edifice just for you to house all the secrets you have buried? TEAR IT DOWN!!! How sad to die as Solomon, having experienced all the wonderful blessings of God yet finding that life ends as vanity and vexation of the soul.

HELP, I CAN'T SEE THE CANVAS FLAPPING!

2010-10-16T09:04:00.006-04:00

Our last Saturday morning as Michiganders dawned early. The truck and van were “stuffed to the gills” with all of the important and necessary last minute items that didn’t make it on the moving van. As I walked through the empty house for a final check, memories of laughter, holiday meals, football parties and grandkids camp flooded over me. But, no time to linger, it was now time for the new adventure to begin. A quick stop and a kiss for the Grand boys and we were on the road to Tennessee. I was excited for this new chapter in our lives to begin but I was not looking forward to driving alone for 10 hours. Steve took the GPS in his truck, I had a cell phone. My instructions were to stay on Highway 75 from Saginaw, MI to Knoxville, TN and follow the silver truck with the blue canvas flapping in the wind. Following Steve is never easy. No matter how hard I try, my mind will not allow my cruise control to go over a certain speed and his mind will not allow his cruise to go under a certain speed. I sat my cruise at the top of my comfort zone and fixed my eyes on the flapping blue canvas.

We had agreed to call if we needed to make a pit stop or got separated. The drive was going smoothly; I was listening to music, Michigan football and following the silver truck with blue canvas “flag” at a comfortable distance. The traffic in Cincinnati was unusually heavy. I was unable to change lanes when my leader truck changed and got stuck behind a slow moving camper. No problem, I could still see my blue beacon faithfully waving in the breeze. Suddenly, it disappeared around a curve. Not to worry, I would soon be around the curve and my guide would once again be in my sight. Rounding the curve I felt the apprehension rising; no silver truck. When you are in the middle of heavy traffic, driving 70 miles an hour, there is no place to pull over and no time to reach for the cell phone. To make matters worse, the highway suddenly split. PANIC TIME!!! What to do? Stay on road, follow his word and trust what you know is true. Steve’s word had assured me that I75 was the way to go; I knew that I75 ran from MI to FL and would take me to Knoxville, and I had my cell phone if I needed to make contact. Quickly changing lanes, I took the Highway 75 split, rounded the corner and there it was; a beautiful silver truck with a blue canvas flapping in the wind.

So many times, I have been happily traveling down the highway of life. I have Jesus in my sight leading the way with His Word is lighting my path. Suddenly, out of nowhere, a curve appears, I lose sight of my leader and to make matters worse I come to a crossroad. What to do? If you have ever faced this scenario, before the panic overwhelms you, “Stay on the road, follow His Word and trust what you know to be true.” Don’t pull over, Jesus is still ahead leading the way; if you stop now, the distance between you will only increase. Follow His word! Psalms 119:105 reminds us, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Glance down at your feet, see that little glow; that is His Word still lighting your path. Keep moving in that Light. This is the time to refresh yourself in the Word of God. Grab hold of the precious promises it contains and trust in what you know to be true. Remember you may not see the “canvas” flapping in the wind but you haven’t lost the connection, grab the cell phone of prayer and hit Jesus on the speed dial. He will answer every time. Soon you will round that curve, Jesus will once more appear in your line of sight and you will continue joyfully along the path.

WHAT IF?

2010-10-11T15:30:00.005-04:00

What and If, 2 small words when strung together open up a world of exploration and discovery. We grasp the concept long before we can write, recognize or even speak the words; What if? Take a few minutes to watch a toddler; their entire world revolves around “What if.” What if I put this bug in my mouth? What if I throw that expensive vase in the floor? What if I wake up in the night and scream? What if I turn my bowl of cereal upside down? And the list goes on and on. As we mature, the “what ifs” mature along with us. A teenager finds a whole different answer to what if I throw this vase in the floor. The answer becomes a statement of, “If, then!”

The “what ifs continue our entire life. What if I had…., what if I had taken that job, what if we had moved to that city, what if I had married him? There are no answers to these questions because we can never know how our life would have changed if we had made only one different decision. As a Christian we may ask, what if I stepped out in faith, what if I told my neighbor about Jesus, what if I went out of my way to help the helpless? Again, there is no answer until we finally just do it!!!

If no one ever asked, “What if”, think of all the wonderful land masses, inventions and truths that would have never discovered. The plan is, however, once the “what if” is answered, we are not stuck repeating the action but our exploration moves on. 2 Timothy speaks of people who are, “Ever learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.” How frustrating to have a life full of “What ifs” but no “If, thens” that would have allowed you to receive further revelation.

One of the questions I hear many people struggle with in their quest for knowledge is, “What if there is no God?” I suppose there are many things that would drastically change if there was no God. How would I treat my neighbor, if there was no LOVE? How would I react to the one who had wronged me, if there was no MERCY? How would I face hard decisions, if there was no FAITH? How would I handle dying, if there was no HOPE?

The other night I dreamed a friend was trying to persuade me that my choice to follow God’s plan was foolish. He asked how I would feel if I found out there was no God. I awoke with the answer ringing through my sub consciousness. It is very simple, if I came to the end of my life and discovered there was no God, I would have lived a wonderful, fulfilled life; one of ignorant bliss, but still wonderful. I would still win because I had nothing to lose. On the other hand if my friend comes to the end of life and discovers, he is wrong and there IS a God, he loses big time and for all of eternity. The way I see it believing in and serving God is a win/win way of life while living for yourself and believing it all ends at death results in an eternal, “WHAT IF.”

IF YOU HAD ONLY WAITED!!!

2010-09-16T16:34:00.009-04:00

“Grandma, I want some juice.” “Just a minute, Caleb” “Grandma, I want some juice.” “I’ll be right there.” SPLASH, CRASH, TRICKLE, DRIP, drip, drip….. “Caleb, if you had only waited!” Does this scenario sound familiar? Caleb was having one of those days. Grandma was busy with Nathan, Caleb wanted juice and he wanted it now so he decided to take matters into his own hands with disastrous results. Now Caleb was unhappy, Grandma was frustrated and there was a big mess in the floor. If he had only waited, Caleb would have been enjoying a glass of juice and Grandma would have been relaxing with a cup of coffee in a clean kitchen. How many times has God looked down at the mess I have created and thought, “Susan, if you had only waited!” Most of the time my heart is in the right place, it is just that my mind becomes clouded by my desires and I think I can do it myself.

I have learned a lot about waiting in the recent weeks and months. At the beginning of the year, Steve and I began to seek God’s will for the ministry He has called us too. Doors began to open for us to speak on weekends and we met many wonderful people at several churches. Pastoral opportunities presented themselves, but as we would seek a confirmation from God, the door would close. There were times the waiting became difficult and we were tempted to work the situation out, but past experiences screamed NO and prevented another disaster. Finally, God opened the door to the opportunity he had created just for us. We walked through the door and have already begun to enjoy the blessings. We were asked to accept the pastorate, our house sold immediately, the perfect Tennessee house was available for rent, and life was rolling along on well-greased wheels. Suddenly, we hit a pothole and the waiting lesson began anew.

The owner of the “perfect” house called on Friday to tell us the deal on the house he was purchasing had fallen through so his house was no longer available for lease. How could that happen? Hadn’t God opened the door for the perfect house? Forgetting the blessings we had experienced through the waiting over the past month, I began to fret. Steve and I discussed our other two options during the long drive from Memphis to Morristown. Saturday evening, we again toured one of the choices. I had an unsettled feeling but convinced myself that it would be alright; I could live here. Maybe we could get a 6 month lease; surely I could stand it for 6 months. After a sleepless night, Sunday morning dawned. The unsettled feeling had not left and the thought came to me; “Susan, you know that unsettled feelings are not from God, you need to pay attention.” I made excuses; “I had no other options.” “It was a matter of pride.” “I was disappointed.” The feelings lasted as the church service began. Finally, in desperation, I raised my hands toward heaven and began to worship and praise God for His goodness. My mind cleared and I began to wait.

After church, on our way back to Saginaw, we stopped by the other house on our list for one last look. The living room looked bigger, the sun shone in brighter through the windows, the breeze blew across the deck a little softer and the peace of God flooded my soul. This was the house God had provided for us. Steve looked at me, I nodded and he said, “I think this is the one.” We signed a lease and headed for Saginaw, MI with a song in our heart. Isaiah 40:31 says, “But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” I am so thankful that there was no mess to clean up this time. What a comfort to know that God is faithful and He will clean up the messes but how much more glorious it is to experience the joy of waiting on the Lord.

DOES A TITLE DEFINE ME?

2010-09-02T15:57:00.004-04:00

What is a title? According to Merriam/Webster, one of the definitions is a descriptive name. A title is a word used to describe your current station in life. Titles begin to evolve in your life from birth. Some are lifelong banners, while others are appropriate only for a short time. I began life with the titles daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, and cousin. As I grew so did my title list. Over the years, student, wife, daughter-in-law, sister-in-law, mother, aunt and grandmother were added to my resume. The most precious title associated with my name is Redeemed, Spirit-Filled, Child of God. Do these titles define me? I certainly hope so; they are the story of my life.

Every title defines a small piece of the puzzle, when viewed as a whole portrays Susan. They identify all the relationships I have with people who are so precious in my life. I have known women who refused to take their husbands last name or be known as MRS. I love that title; it tells a beautiful story of love and commitment from two different people whom God made one. Mother and Grandmother are two other titles that I cherish. Those titles are a continuation of the love story that began when I became a wife. At 9 years old, I decided to follow Jesus, since then, I have happily embraced every title along the way as a blessing from God.

I was involved recently in a conversation regarding the title, “Pastor’s Wife” vs. “Co-Pastor” vs. “Lady Minister.” Each side had a valid point as to which was the desired title. When I came to the place of surrender where the title was not as important as serving God every day in any capacity, doors began to open miraculously and great things began to happen in my world. I have recently become a “Pastor’s Wife.” I love it! Why? Maybe, because I am married to the greatest, most humble, absolutely wonderful Pastor/Preacher in the universe. Maybe, because this Man of God rejoices in all the things God calls me to do and encourages me to seek God’s will for my life. Maybe because my husband pastors a church filled with precious People of God. Maybe, because, “Pastor’s Wife,” defines exactly the position in which God has placed me.

Does a title define me? Only if I allow myself to become everything the title describes. Choose the titles wisely that you allow to be associated with your life. If a title has been placed around your neck that you prefer was not there, refuse to live by its definition, soon it will fall by the wayside and be forgotten. Every day you may gain and lose various titles, make sure you add “Redeemed, Spirit-Filled Child of God” to your life, live up to its definition and never let it go.

SOMETIMES GOD SAYS NO, SO HE CAN SAY YES!

2010-08-28T08:29:00.003-04:00

There is nothing more fulfilling than being involved in the work of God. It is so awesome to realize that you are a small piece of God’s master plan. Each morning I pray that God will open my eyes and help me to accomplish what He has planned for that day. This prayer has led to some strange and interesting situations at the grocery store, a nursing home, my office, the subdivision where I live and other places I frequent. It is so amazing while meditating on God’s goodness in the evening to suddenly realize that the events of the day were not strange or coincidental at all. They were orchestrated by God and I was a part of them!!!

About 7 years ago, Steve and I felt led to start a small group in our town. Although we are surrounded by many churches, there is no church that teaches the Acts 2:38 message in our immediate area. It began as a small group in our home where we met once a week to study the Word of God, share testimonies of God’s goodness and pray for each other’s needs. As the group expanded we began to look for a building and held our first services there about 5 years ago. For the next 4 years we continued to minister to people and reach out to the community. Although many people visited, our core group remained small. About a eighteen months ago, the core shrunk to 3 individuals and we felt God telling us, “NO.” Our last service was Easter Sunday, 2009. It took several months for me to go back into the building because I was not ready to let go. I was sure it was the will of God but still I grieved.

As the months continued, Steve and I prayed, wept and sought God for direction. During that time we learn to see opportunities one day at a time and allow God to use us for that specific situation. We felt a burden for small churches and traveled on weekends to minister in them. I was privileged to complete 3 different Bible Study series and to teach them in small group settings. God allowed me to speak at some ladies meetings and seminars. I volunteered at the Rescue Mission and worked with hospice. I was blessed every time I saw God work in a situation or we enjoyed a powerful service in one of the small churches, but still something was missing. I had a longing to be a pastor’s wife again!!! I wanted to walk beside precious people as they worked out the issues in their lives, cry with them as they let go of the pain and rejoice when the joy of the Lord filled their heart. I was not very good at “lovin’ and leavin’.

Some opportunities began to present themselves. Every time we were optimistic; could this be the place God wanted us to minister? As we prayed for direction, it seemed as if God had forgotten that YES was also a word. The door would always shut with a resounding NO. There was one opportunity we were so sure would be perfect. Everything seemed to be falling into place except for one important detail. This had to be God’s plan for our lives, but to be sure we put a “fleece” before the Lord. We soon realized that although the fleece was wet the ground was very dry. We continued to pray about this one, because it was so “perfect” for our lives. One more “fleece” went before the Lord. This time, you guessed it, the ground was wet but the fleece was dry. God had not only answered our “fleece” but had taken the desire for this opportunity out of our hearts. So we continued to seek God’s will.

When we come to the end of our own imagination, God shows us His. God slapped us upside the head with an open door that we never saw coming, could not have imagined or even dreamed up. On August 22, 2010 we had our first service as pastor of Cornerstone Apostolic Church, Morristown, TN. Even as I write this, I am overwhelmed by the goodness of my God, tears fill my eyes and I may have to take a little praise break right here. God reached way up north in Saginaw, MI, touched a seeking pastor and his wife, filled our hearts with love for a beautiful congregation way down south in Morristown, TN. He has not only given us the desire of our heart but is allowing it to be fulfilled in one of the most beautiful areas in America.
All of the months of uncertainty allowed us to deepen our relationship with Jesus Christ as we let go of our plans and sought His purpose. The miles of traveling to small congregations on weekends gave us a new perspective on God’s love for His people. Struggling in “Home Missions” for five years with little “success” in man’s eyes, taught us that, “there are no throwaway’s,” every soul is precious and you may be in that individual’s life for just a moment in time along their spiritual journey. All of the closed doors and God’s answers of “NO,” fine tuned our hearing so that when God said “YES,” the answer was unmistakable.

God has confirmed His “Yes” to us over the last month in unbelievable ways. I am so thankful for all the times God said no so He could say YES!!! This experience has taught me that accepting, with grace, the times that God says no makes the time He says yes so much sweeter.

CHECK YOUR WINDOW SILLS

2010-07-29T15:45:00.004-04:00

The windows were shining, the furniture dusted and the carpet vacuumed. Ahhh, the feeling of accomplishment was sweet; time to let the fresh breezes blow out the lingering staleness created by the hot, humid days of summer; time to settle back with a well-deserved cup of coffee and admire the results of my fruitful morning. Tying back the curtains and raising the window, I suddenly recoiled in horror!!! My feeling of satisfaction and my beautiful room was suddenly marred by filthy window sills. The sills were grimy with dirt, dead bugs were strategically lining the wells and cobwebs filled the corners. Where had all the filth come from and how had I allowed it to accumulate to that extent? Paper towels and window cleaner work wonders and a half hour later I was sitting back enjoying my cup of coffee, secure in the knowledge that my rooms were spotless.

Pondering the situation, I realized how thankful I am for windows. The sills reflected what a great job the window had done in trapping the dirt and bugs before they took up residence in my house. God created our bodies with some pre-emptive devices to protect important sensitive areas from ingesting the filth and germs that swirl around us every day. If you are the mother of daughters or are extra sensitive, you may want to stop reading now or write your own ending to the story. I am the mother of two boys and believe me when you raise boys; all sensitivity quickly flies out the window. With boys, bodily fluids and noises were not subjects to sweep under the rug or discreetly discuss in hushed tones. OH NO!!! They were loudly proclaimed, a subject of masculine rivalry and at times actually celebrated. Now that you understand how my mind works, blow your nose, clean out your ears and wash the sleep out of your eyes. These are all systems that must be cleaned from time to time; systems that protect the body from ingesting foreign objects that would harm delicate tissue. If you never blew your nose, you would finally be unable to breath. Ears can become so plugged, that it seems you are hearing everything from inside a barrel and of course who would want their eyes glued shut with the goop that accumulates every night while you sleep? We make sure to take care of our bodily hygiene every day but what about our spiritual hygiene?

We have repented and turned toward Christ, our sins have been washed away through baptism and He has filled our emptied soul with the Holy Ghost. The inside is all clean!!! We live by the motto, WWJD. Our homes have been set up as a testimony, there are certain places and situations we shun, and we are careful to let our speech glorify God. The outside is all clean!!!! Before we settle back and rest in what God has accomplished in our life, CHECK THE WINDOW SILL. What is lurking in the corners, down in the wells and under the layer of dust we have allowed to accumulate. We still live in a world that doesn’t follow WWJD. We are bombarded with filthy words, images and evil imaginations every day. Although we may guard our heart and refuse to embrace the world’s view of life, we have to daily cleanse the accumulation from our mind. The Apostle Paul says it in such an eloquent fashion in Philippians 4:8 “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Spending a little time with the Lord, listening to Godly music, reading a passage of scripture, and just allowing His love to gently wipe away all the outside crud will keep all the pre-emptive devices in good working order. If you haven’t checked the window sills of your heart in a while, take a few minutes, you’ll be reaching for the paper towels and Windex, with lightening speed.

SEARCHING FOR LOST SIGNAL

2010-07-20T09:03:00.003-04:00

My life is now run by satellite. Forty years ago, we were amazed at the futuristic technology portrayed on Star Trek and James Bond. The actors were able to go places and accomplish things found only in the daydreams of adventurous screenwriters. Today, although, we still cannot be teleported to other universes, most of the gadgets have become reality. I have a cell phone, satellite television, a GPS system in my automobile and even an alarm clock that resets itself by satellite. They are all wonderful inventions until something interrupts the signal.

Steve and I were in the middle of a Law & Order episode one night when the storm clouds rolled in and the most aggravating message scrolled across the screen; “Searching for signal.” Nothing was wrong with the television, the station was still broadcasting the episode, but we could do nothing to remedy the situation because the receiver could not find the signal. The same thing happens to my cell phone as I cross the Mackinac Bridge into the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Suddenly an inverted V appears with an attached rotating cone, frantically searching for the nearest cell tower. I am no longer connected to the world because the signal has been lost.

So many times traveling the “road of life,” I find myself disconnected and searching for the signal. Nothing is wrong with God. The signal is still being broadcasted to the world. Others are happily connected, but something is preventing me from receiving what God is transmitting. It may be a storm cloud or the mountains bordering the valley through which I’m traveling. At other times, I may have drifted to far from the “tower,” all I know is that my heart keeps rotating, searching frantically for the signal. As I continue on the path, like my car’s GPS system, I pick up a sudden voice that says, “Make a U-turn now!” If I obey that familiar voice, I find myself safely on the right road with the signal coming through clear and strong.

If you find your heart searching for the signal, remember it’s not lost. There is something merely blocking the reception. Deuteronomy 4:29 promises, “But from there you will seek the Lord your God, and you will find Him if you seek Him with all your heart and with all your soul.” Look up, raise your antennae toward Heaven, begin to praise God and soon the signal will be restored.

ENEMIES, BOTH FOREIGN & DOMESTIC

2010-07-04T09:50:00.003-04:00

Today is July 4th, a wonderful holiday in the United States. Most people will celebrate it with cookouts and fireworks, watermelon and ice cream. It’s Independence Day!!!! As American’s, we fiercely defend our freedoms. We fence our yards, defend our rights in the highest courts and shed blood on foreign soil to preserve the freedom given to us by God and established by our forefathers. We have a signed and sealed document called the Constitution complete with an attachment called the Bill of Rights which the President and every member of Congress swear to “Protect and defend from enemies both foreign and domestic.” We are serious about our RIGHTS but sometimes lax when it comes to preserving the FREEDOM that allows us to enjoy those rights.

We have been purchased and set free by the precious Blood of Jesus. We have a signed and sealed document explaining our freedom and listing our rights as Citizens of Heaven. Are we as willing to defend our freedom from sin as we are our civil liberties? We have to be vigilant and on guard every minute to our foreign enemy, Satan. 1 Peter 5:8 says, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walks about, seeking whom he may devour." Satan is always lurking around the corner, waiting for an opportunity to snatch another God-given right until link by link we are once again enslaved by sin.

But what about the Domestic Enemies? Domestic threats are actually more dangerous than those from foreign sources. In the United States we have a strong military and a code of law to protect our borders from alien forces that would seek to destroy us. It is easier to identify and resist foreign enemies. Not so with “home-grown” terrorists. They live with us, look like us, speak our language and share our rights. In our Christian Walk we must deal with domestic enemies, as well. The Bible tells us that we are not ignorant of the Devil’s devices but are we aware of the devices of those who seek to enslave us from within. One of the first “plots” we encounter is those who try to replace Old Testament Law with New Testament Law. Galatians 3:3 says, “Are ye so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?” We must resist the mindset that says anything we can do or not do contributes to our salvation. A second “plot” is the philosophy that because we are free in Christ and under grace, we have been given a license to satisfy any desire our flesh lusts after. Romans 6:1-2 “What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? 2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?” Just as American Citizens cannot yell fire in a crowded building, steal any little trinket that catches their eye, or take the life of the neighbor with the barking dog, Heavenly Citizens must adhere to the Spiritual Law that allows us to preserve our freedom in Christ.

I have read stories of men that were imprisoned when young and then released 20 or 30 years later. They have become so accustomed to their chains that they have no idea how to handle the freedom they have been given. They are so terrified that they will immediately commit another crime so they will be incarcerated again where there is no freedom but life is familiar. Let us not become so comfortable with Satan’s tyranny that we retreat after being set free from sin. Let us also be careful not to trade Satan’s Tyranny for Spiritual Tyranny because we are scared of our freedom in Christ or because it is easier to follow the Law of Man rather than the Law of the Spirit. Whether you are still bound by Satan or have once again become entangled in spiritual slavery, declare your Independence, today.

BIG HAIR & WHISPERED PRAYER

2010-06-25T13:19:00.003-04:00

Have you ever gone shopping with someone and become separated? You are standing right beside them, looking at the same merchandise, when suddenly, they disappear. In a big department store, you could lose someone for days. You go down one aisle as they are going up another aisle or you happen to be rounding the end of an aisle at the exact time they pass the aisle in which you were just standing. It really could go on forever. What do you do? If you are lost, whether in a department store or a forest, the best course of action is JUST STAND STILL!!!

As a little girl, it was always an exciting adventure to go “to town” with Mom. Shopping was a much more focused decision. There was no wandering down wide, air-conditioned corridors, stopping in a store you wouldn’t ordinarily frequent to check out the clearance rack, grabbing a bite to eat in the food court before moving on to the store you really came to shop at in the first place. “Town” consisted of stand-alone stores and strip malls and going to “town” usually referred to Sears or JC Penney’s. I still remember the smell of freshly popped corn as we entered Sears. A strategically placed counter filled with chocolate delights, candy corn and circus peanuts beckoned to shoppers as they entered the store and tempted them as they exited. Sometimes we would get a 1/4 pound of our favorite candy for the ride back home.

Sears was full of distractions for a curious little girl. There were racks of colorful clothing, mannequins to hide behind and make faces at, and ladies with blue hair stopping to admire a mother brave enough to go shopping with such a large brood. In the midst of all the distractions, I would suddenly realize that Mom had moved on without me. I’m sure she was just behind a rack of clothing or down a different aisle, but it can be very stressful to a child when there are no familiar faces in view. The first few times a panicked cry of “MOM” rang out through the department until she suddenly appeared assuring us she had never been very far away. As we grew older and realized she would never leave us alone, the panic faded and we drifted a little further into departments that were much more interesting. After a short while, the insecurity would set in and we would begin to look for Mom.

Over the years I learned a little trick that worked every time. It was the 1960’s and my mother had BIG HAIR. If I only looked up over my circumstance, I could find her moving in the distance among the racks. I would walk toward the “moving hair” and soon be in her presence. There were times, however, that the merchandise was piled too high. No matter how high I looked, I could not spot the hair. I would get very quiet and listen intently. My mother took the verse that says, “Pray without ceasing,” literally. She had a whispered prayer on her lips as she cleaned the house, cooked the meals and yes, even as she shopped. When all my searching techniques failed, I would listen for that familiar whisper, “Jesus, Jesus, Jesus!” As I moved toward the still, small voice, I felt a calming peace; Mom was just around the corner. Looking back, it has become just a fond memory. If I get separated in the mall from loved ones today, I call their cell phone and ask them where they are and where we can meet. The need for big hair and whispered prayer has become obsolete.

There have been times I have allowed the distractions of life to overwhelm me. I look around for God and realize He isn’t beside me anymore. I’ve drifted away and I’m lost among the racks of responsibilities and troubles. If I can only look up; above my circumstance, often times I spot Jesus moving in the distance. Keeping my eyes on Him, once again I draw near and soon I am in His loving presence. But what about the times when I can barely lift my head, let alone see over the problems that have surrounded me? That is when I go to PLAN B; stand still and listen. I get away from the clutter and noise, close my eyes and let that still, small voice begin to speak. As I draw near to God the voice becomes a little louder and clearer until once again, He is holding my hand and directing my path.

If you have become a bit distracted and life is too confusing, give my solution a try. First, lift your head and LOOK UP. If you still can’t catch a glimpse of the Savior, LISTEN. His voice is never stilled; we just have a difficult time getting through the interference to the right frequency. He hasn’t moved He is right where you left Him. God has been patiently waiting to speak peace to your heart.

I THINK I AM A VALLEY GIRL

2010-06-06T15:44:00.002-04:00

Do you know or are you one of the people who can’t wait for the next thrill? For the most part you feel that life is boring and you would be happier if you could live in Disney World and ride the roller coaster every day. I DO NOT understand you!!! I am happier with the mundane and would prefer to live in the rut; I think I am a “Valley Girl.”

Our Walk with God has been expressed many times as either a “Mountaintop” or “Valley” experience. The “Mountaintop” describes exhilarating times, conquering, the end of the battle, and victorious celebration. The “Valley,” on the other hand speaks of constant searching, struggling, or stumbling through the darkness and discouragement. I think the Valley gets a bad rap and as a Valley Girl, I have a different point of view.

While a mountain may offer excitement and be exhilarating, living on a mountain is hard. Mountain climbers describe the treacherous perils awaiting those who dwell on the peaks. There are stories of hikers finding a quiet, flat site to set up camp for the night only to have a storm blow in unexpectedly, upsetting the camp. The climber must always be aware of missteps into a crevice or loose boulders that appear solid only to break off with the slightest weight and go tumbling into the canyon below. The thunder of an avalanche strikes terror into the hearts of even the most experienced explorers who understand that trying to escape the tidal wave of snow racing down the mountainside is futile. Once the adventurers have reached the peak, there is a feeling of incredible achievement and the view is breathtaking, but trying living on the mountaintop. There is nothing to be found that will sustain life. There are no places to build a house, no rich soil to grow a garden, or beautiful streams from which to draw life giving water. It can be cold and lonely on the mountain. What do you do when all the provisions you toted on your back have been depleted? There is no local grocer or Wal-Mart on the top of the mountain. Suddenly, the valley begins to sound a little more inviting.

It is in the valley we find peace, rest, safety and provision. The valley provides a quiet place where we can take the time to feel God’s love surrounding us and earnestly seek His guidance. Our bodies have been created to endure hardship, expend incredible amounts of energy and achieve amazing feats of strength but even the strongest and most energetic person will eventually hit the wall because we are also created to require rest. It is in the valley that we can take the time to be revived, refreshed, and reinvigorated. It is true, sometimes life in the valley becomes boring or as I prefer to call it, peaceful. For all you “thrill-seekers,” be assured, Life is never static, the valley will come to an end and soon you will have another mountain to climb.

All of you Mountain Climbers please be patient with us Valley Girls as we journey through life together. I will climb up the mountain side with you and rejoice when we reach the peak. I promise to be a shoulder to lean on as we descend on the other side. I only ask that you allow me just a little extra time to linger in the valley. Let me drink from clear stream of refreshing water, eat the fruit from the Tree of Life and smell the sweet aroma of the Lily of the Valley. As a Valley Girl, I need a few extra moments to prepare for the next adventure. We will reach the mountain soon but for now there are green pastures and still waters awaiting this Valley Girl.

STONES OF MEMORIAL

2010-05-31T08:38:00.005-04:00

Some time ago, I watched a funeral of an elderly lady over the internet. This is the fourth funeral I have watched in the last few years. These were people I have seen and heard all my life, yet I have never shaken their hand, spoken to them, or even been introduced. She was not just any old lady; he was not just another sickly old man. They were men and women of God who stood strong in the face of opposition, persevered and overcame.

My family is concerned about my fascination with these funerals. It doesn’t make sense why I would devote an afternoon to hear people eulogize someone I have never met. I asked myself. Why? It came to me that it isn’t a fascination with death or a nostalgic desire to reacquaint myself with people from my younger days. It is the legacy they leave behind. Now that I am over 50 years old, I am more concerned with my own legacy. Have I passed on to my children the heritage that was passed down to me? Will my grandchildren know about the blessings our family has experienced? Have I been a testimony to them? Do they have the confidence and faith in God to stand strong no matter the opposition?

In Washington DC, large cities and small towns, there are statues, walls and monuments erected in honor of great leaders, fallen soldiers and other heroes. These are not set up just to attract tourists or decorate a town square but they are Memorial Stones. The hope is that a legacy will be preserved and the future generations will stand before the memorial to hear the stories of incredible bravery and endurance. The goal is that those who pause will not only stand with a sense of pride in their country but be motivated to continue the legacy.

Joshua 4:20-24 And those twelve stones, which they took out of Jordan, did Joshua pitch in Gilgal. 21 And he spoke unto the children of Israel, saying, when your children shall ask their fathers in time to come, saying, what meaneth these stones? 22 Then ye shall let your children know, saying, Israel came over this Jordan on dry land. 23 For the LORD your God dried up the waters of Jordan from before you, until ye were passed over, as the LORD your God did to the Red sea, which he dried up from before us, until we were gone over: 24 That all the people of the earth might know the hand of the LORD, that it is mighty: that ye might fear the LORD your God forever.

Joshua understood the importance of setting up memorials and passing the details of God’s miraculous deeds to the next generation and the next and the next. Although Joshua was one of the great leaders named in Israel’s history, he was not concerned with his own legacy or making sure his name was preserved in the annals of history. Joshua understood that he was but a vessel used by God to fulfill His great plan. Joshua had a memorial set up comprised of the stones taken out of the middle of the Jordan River. His plan was that the memorial would be visited, the story would be repeated and each generation would “know the hand of the Lord and fear the Lord forever.”

As I watch the funerals of a generation of Godly men and women that is rapidly fading, I am concerned that the legacy of the stones will fade with them. Has my generation preserved and passed down the testimony to our children? Will the new generation, our grandchildren even notice the stones and ask to hear the stories of God’s greatness? As God works in your life, praise Him to your children, write it down for your grandchildren. Have a “Praise The Lord” night at your house as you answer the question “What meaneth these stones.”

THE LAND OF JUST RIGHT

2010-05-17T20:47:00.005-04:00

Goldilocks was hungry, there were three bowls of porridge and the story begins. She tasted Papa Bear’s porridge, but it was too hot, Mama Bear’s turned out to be too cold but Baby Bear’s was JUST RIGHT, so she ate it all gone. Then Goldilocks set in Baby Bear’s JUST RIGHT chair until it broke. Finding herself exhausted from eating and sitting, Goldilocks decided to take a short nap. Papa Bear’s bed was too hard, Mama Bear’s bed was too soft, but Baby Bear’s cozy little bed was JUST RIGHT, so Goldilocks fell asleep. She had settled comfortably into the LAND OF JUST RIGHT.

The Bible speaks of several instances of people who settled into the LAND OF JUST RIGHT. In every instance they failed to fulfill the great plan that God had for them and consequently missed out on all the blessings attached to their purpose. In Genesis 11, we learn of Terah, the father of Abram. We are told he took Abram, Sarai and Lot and left the Land of Ur of the Chaldees to go to the Land of Canaan. They came to the Land of Haran and dwelt there and Terah died in Haran. The Bible doesn’t say why Terah didn’t complete the journey into the Land of Canaan but something about Haran was “just right” and Terah decided this was a place where he could be comfortable and he never left. Is it possible that Terah might have had a covenant with God as did his son Abraham, if only he hadn’t settled in the ‘Land of Just Right.”

Just a few generations later, Moses had led the Children of Israel from Egypt, through the wilderness and to the brink of Canaan. Moses died and Joshua led the Israelites across the Jordan River and prepared them to possess the land. God had given them the land and promised that He would deliver it into their hands but first they had to drive the heathen inhabitants completely out of the land. Joshua 15:63 tells us of Israel’s failure to obey the command of the Lord; “As for the Jebusites the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the children of Judah could not drive them out: but the Jebusites dwell with the children of Judah at Jerusalem unto this day.” Israel decided they were comfortable living along side the heathen Jebusites. Although it was against God’s direct instructions, Israel settled into the “Land of Just Right.” History reveals the consequence of Israel’s disobedience and the result of their becoming comfortable in the “Land of Just Right. To this day, the inhabitants of Jerusalem have been a snare and a trap, a scourge in their side and a thorn in the eyes of Israel, just as they were warned in Joshua 23:12.

The Church of Laodicea in the book of Revelation had become a church that had settled in the Land of Just Right. Revelation 3:15 states in a letter to the Church of Laodicea, “I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou were cold or hot. 16So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of my mouth. 17Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:” This passage of scripture became a little clearer to me recently while visiting with my Mother. My Mom lives in Southern Missouri where it is usually warm in the month of May. The day we arrived it was a sunny, warm 85 degrees. A cold front moved through overnight and the temperature fell to 50 degrees. The cold spurred my Mom to action; on came the furnace and up went the thermostat. Since I am 20 years younger and much warmer natured than my mother, the stifling heat of the furnace caused me to turn the thermostat way down while mom was in the other room. Finally, we compromised on a temperature, Mom added a sweater and I donned a t-shirt. After settling comfortably in the “Land of Just Right”, we continued eating and visiting.

When we become “cold” in our relationship with God, we become uncomfortable. Something is just NOT right. God begins to deal with us and we move closer to the source of heat; the Fire of the Holy Ghost. When we become “hot” in our relationship with God, the Fire spurs us into action to accomplish our purpose in God. If we have settled into the Land of Just Right, however, we are in a “lukewarm” condition. We have become comfortable in feasting on the blessings of God and fellowship without putting forth any effort. Nothing is accomplished when everything is “Just Right,” and God says he will spew you out of His mouth. While it may require that you get out of your comfort zone and life may not seem “quite right” most days, the further you move away from the “Land of Just Right,” the closer you will get to the Fire of the Holy Ghost and God’s purpose and plan for your life will be fulfilled.

The story of Goldilocks ends with the Three Bears returning home to find Goldilocks asleep in Baby Bear’s bed. We tell our children a nice little ending with the bears waking her with a kiss and sending her home. Since bears are not nice furry little creatures, instead of a kiss they probably ate her and that was the end of Goldilocks; all because she became comfortable in the Land of Just Right.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

2010-04-19T13:56:00.002-04:00

In the last few years the Internet has become an integral part of our everyday lives. We use it to communicate with loved ones, share pictures and daily activities on social networks, learn what is happening in every country of the world, purchase new toys and sell the old ones. If you have ever entered a contest, down loaded software, or enrolled in an online group, you will notice that before the transaction is completed a small box must be checked. It is the “Terms & Conditions” box. By checking the box you are promising that you accept and abide by whatever rules the creator has set up in connection with this event. I have checked many little boxes but I have to admit, other than a cursory scan, I have never read a detailed Terms & Conditions page. THAT IS GOING TO CHANGE!!! After reading the following article, I have decided to throw my checkmarks around with a little less nonchalance.

Fox News reported that 7,500 online shoppers unknowingly sold their souls when they purchased a computer game from a British company. The “Terms & Conditions” included this clause, “By placing an order via this Web site on the first day of the fourth month of the year 2010 Anno Domini, you agree to grant Us a non transferable option to claim, for now and forever more, your immortal soul. Should We wish to exercise this option, you agree to surrender your immortal soul, and any claim you may have on it, within 5 (five) working days of receiving written notification from gamesation.co.uk or one of its duly authorized minions." A joke? Probably! Enforceable? Probably not!! The lesson to be learned, however, is make sure you know the Terms & Conditions before completing the transaction.

God promised Abraham that he would be the father of a great nation. The Terms & Conditions to receive the promise were that Abraham had to leave his country and loved ones, follow God to an unknown land, face unforeseen obstacles and finally in his old age, experience the birth of the one son who was the start of the “great nation.” Joseph dreamed of his destiny but not the Terms & Conditions. How could he know that before his brothers would bow down to him, he would be sold into slavery, falsely accused, put in prison, forgotten about for a few years and finally brought before Pharaoh? Did the disciples understand the Terms & Conditions when Jesus asked them to put down their nets and other tools of the trade to follow Him? What about you, have you read the Terms & Conditions to inherit eternal life?

John 14 1-3 says, “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. 2In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” What an exciting promise; Jesus left to prepare a place for me and when it is ready; He will return and take me there. But what about the Terms & Conditions? Am I willing to check the box and hit enter?

When the crowd asked, Peter in Acts 2, “What must we do to be saved,” Peter declared the Terms & Conditions as they were given to him. Acts 2:38, Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Is that it? Just do what Peter says and I can get my place in a mansion for eternity? No, that’s just one of the Terms & Conditions. We find another in Matthew 24:13, “But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.” For the complete list of Terms and Conditions read a book called The Bible. If you can agree to all it contains then you are ready to check the little box and hit enter. You have now sold not only your soul but your life to a loving Savior who purchased you with His own blood. Everything He has is yours including eternal life.

HURRY!!! THERE'S A DEADLINE!

2010-04-09T11:26:00.002-04:00

This morning as the fog was slowly replaced by conscious thought, I remembered something I had been meaning to get to all week. It suddenly hit me, I am a PROCRASTINATOR. According to Merriam-Webster’s dictionary, a procrastinator is someone who intentionally puts off doing something that should be done. According to my daughter-in-law, Jenesa, “It’s not procrastination, it is good planning.” While, I prefer Jenesa’s definition, I’m afraid my lack of diligence fits more perfectly into that of Merriam-Webster. After examining my thought process in relationship to task process, I realize I work best when constrained by DEADLINES.

It is amusing to watch an individual’s body language when the word deadline is mentioned. It is as if a curtain drops, a mental block is put into place draining all of their energy and enthusiasm for the project. Could it be because behind its benign modern definition lurks its literal original meaning? We use the term "deadline" to refer to a specific time when a project is to be completed, but it literally means a line beyond which you die. According to one source, the word deadline first appeared as a word that referred to the line around a military prison beyond which soldiers were authorized to shoot escaping prisoners. Perhaps the word strikes such fear because deep down we feel that if we miss the set date we may die. I can promise you that most of the deadlines you face in life will not result in death if missed but maybe we should not discount the seriousness of some of the approaching deadlines.

I worked for several years as a Controller of a company. For all of you who have ever worked in an Accounting Department, you understand the word Deadlines. The entire monthly accounting cycle is determined by deadlines; report deadlines, tax deposit deadlines, information submission deadlines, budget deadlines, etc. Although missing a deadline would not cost me my life, it could cost the company stiff fines, non-compliance penalties and ultimately my job. The deadlines were important and took planning and prioritizing every day. There is a deadline approaching in each of our lives that can be met through a time of planning and prioritizing first thing each morning and executing the plan for that day. This is a deadline you don’t want to miss; the penalties are irrevocable and eternal.

Matthew 25 tells us of ten virgins. Five had planned and prioritized their life so that they were ready for the bridegroom’s appearance. The other five, however, were procrastinators. They were all aware of the approaching deadline, they were aware of the preparations necessary to wait for the bridegroom and that once the bridegroom appeared they must be ready to go with him. The Bible doesn’t fill us in on the many distractions that came between them and the long awaited day, but as the countdown began, five realized they had missed an important item on their list of priorities. They had forgotten to fill their lamps with oil. While they were at the market, the bridegroom came and they missed the deadline. Although they knocked and begged to be allowed in there was no grace-period extended.

April 15, tax day, is fast approaching. If you are one of the tax-procrastinators, missing this deadline will merely cost you a fine. Walking into work past the deadline too many times, may cost you your job, but hopefully you will learn a lesson and be on time at your next position. There will be many deadlines over the course of your life that you will meet and others you will miss with less than dire consequence but have you thought of the “end of life” deadline that we are racing toward every day. Young people think they are invincible and old people become obsessed about dying, yet we all come to the same conclusion; this life ends and eternity begins. The deadline is approaching faster than you can even imagine, just ask an elderly friend. The bridegroom may return in your lifetime or we may pass through death but the deadline cannot be avoided; eternity waits. Do you have your priorities in order? Is your lamp full of the oil of the Holy Spirit? Are you ready and waiting? Hurry!!! There’s a deadline!!!!

I CAN'T SEEM TO SEE WHAT YOU ARE SAYING

2010-04-06T13:10:00.003-04:00

It had been one of those mornings I never want to repeat. The headache had been building since the day began, but I knew I couldn’t give in to the pain because two little boys were depending on me. Finally, Nathan was napping and Mickey Mouse had captured Caleb’s attention. I settled down in a comfortable chair with a cup of coffee, closing my eyes for just a moment, I rubbed my aching head. Suddenly, I felt a cool little hand on my brow and a tiny voice say Grandma and other intelligible words except for the last two, “name and amen.” A song of praise began to rise up in me and my headache disappeared as I realized 2-year old Caleb had prayed for me in Jesus Name, Amen! How did he know that was exactly what I needed? Was it because he had witnessed his dad and mom praying over him in the wee hours of the morning? Had he been paying attention when Grandpa anointed someone with oil and prayed for them in church? Maybe it was the time he fell off the slide and Grandma ran to hold him close, praying in the Name of Jesus as his tears were wiped away. Caleb was imitating the behavior he had witnessed; when you are having a tough time, PRAY!

It is so wonderful to see our children imitate our good behavior. I love watching Madison rock and cuddle her dolls because that’s how mommies behave. Mackenzie explained to me exactly which side of the plate the knife should be placed because someone portrayed this etiquette to her. It is natural for Caleb and Nathan to raise their hands in praise to God as we sing because that has been modeled to them. But, what about the times when our children or grandchildren’s behavior is not so exemplary? Have you ever been totally embarrassed by your child’s antics only to suddenly realize you have been “slapped in the face” by the echo of your own words and actions? Children are “champion imitators” but not “gold-medal discerners.” They will mirror every behavior they observe.

Ephesians 5:1 tells us, “Therefore be imitators of God as dear children,” yet many times the behavior we are imitating is far from the reflection of God. We may say all the right words, quote scripture, and preach sermons, but what are we portraying by our actions? When our words and actions don’t match, our witness is as confusing as watching a movie in which the movement and words are out of sync. Our friends and neighbors just can’t seem to see what we are saying.

I read today where actor, Neal McDonough, was fired from the television series, Scoundrels, for refusing to perform in steamy love scenes. He has also refused to do the same on Desperate Housewives and Boomtown, due to his devout faith and principles. While his words of refusal are admirable, his actions of accepting roles in multiple series which would require this type of performance are confusing. Last year, Miss California, Carrie Prejean lost her crown after her statement regarding gay marriage. She was lauded by religious leaders and invited to be a presenter at a gospel music awards program. A few days later nude and compromising pictures of her were published. She felt she was being persecuted for her faith and her moral stance. Wait just a minute!!!!!!!! Her actions were turning her words into objects of ridicule by unbelievers. Once again, their philosophy of Hypocrisy and Christianity has been reinforced because they just can’t seem to see what we are saying.

Matthew 15:8, “These people draw near to me with their mouth, and honor me with their lips, but their heart is far from me.” We have fed the cynicism of unbelievers through our hypocrisy of speaking words of life with our mouth as our bodies follow the way leading to death. The world is longing for a person or a group of people who really believe what they speak and portray it through their actions. When we reach the point that we believe and embrace the words we are saying, our actions will preach the gospel and our world will see and follow what we have been saying.

I JUST WANT TO ENTER THE HOLY OF HOLIES

2010-03-25T12:59:00.004-04:00

Standing with the congregation around the Outer Court, one could fill the excitement building, it wouldn’t be long now. Today was the Day of Atonement. It was the one day every year when the High Priest would go before the Lord with blood of the sacrifice and the burden of the prior year’s sin would be lifted and pushed ahead until the same time next year. The sacrifice had been made on the Altar, the people had watched as the High Priest carefully washed at the Laver and had entered in the Holy Place. They could hear the tinkling of the bells as the High Priest donned the special garments as specified by Jehovah. Bearing the sacrificial blood, the High Priest stopped in front of the Altar of Incense to pick up the Censer. One more time the High Priest ran through a mental check, had he performed each task according to God’s plan, were any steps overlooked, was the sacrifice unblemished, had he washed properly, were all the garments in place? The awesomeness of the task before him was overwhelming as he stepped behind the Veil bearing the blood and incense into the darkness of the Holy of Holies. Through the cloud of incense, the priest sprinkled the blood on the Mercy Seat. The Holy of Holies was suddenly illuminated as the Glory of God descended to rest on the Mercy Seat. The sacrifice was accepted, God’s mercy had been extended for one more year.

I am always amazed at the detailed description of the Tabernacle, its furniture, the priestly duties and the method of sacrifice given to Moses by God. The High Priest could not forget one step or take a short cut as he approached God on the Day of Atonement, but the anticipation of standing in the Presence of God overshadowed the tedious preciseness of the preparation. The priest could not offer the sacrifice and bypass the Laver, for the sacrifice was not the goal. After washing, he could not return home, for washing at the Laver was not the goal. He couldn’t take a bite of the show bread, light a candle, and meditate at the Altar of Incense because what he needed was behind the Veil in the Holy of Holies. He had to get to the Mercy Seat and witness the Presence and Glory of God; he had to enter the Holy of Holies.

Christianity has so many beliefs and interpretations of how to approach God that we have lost sight of the goal, entering into the Holy of Holies. We debate at the Altar of Sacrifice, should the sacrifice be laid out in this fashion and what exactly must be included, does the sacrifice have to be totally dead and is fire really that important? Without slaying the sacrifice on the Altar there was no blood and the High Priest could not enter the Holy of Holies without blood. Next the Laver blocks our path. Can we just sprinkle a little of the water on our hands to rinse off the blood, why can’t I just perform the ceremony my way, but unless the Priest was thoroughly cleansed according to God’s plan, he would die at the entrance of the Holy of Holies and never experience the Glory of God. Finally, we come to the Holy Place and experience the light of truth, feast upon the Bread of Life and offer our praise as a sweet smelling savor unto the Lord. Why would you want to stop now, the Veil has been torn, the Mercy Seat is within reach, the Glory of God is about to descend, you can step into the Holy of Holies.

If every Christian would let go of personal theologies, their beliefs that some things were only given to the Apostles, the thoughts that once again God is hid behind a veil or that His fullness is only available for a select group of people and long to step into the Holy of Holies, the power and glory of God would once again manifest itself on the Mercy Seat. I am tired of debate, religious exclusivity, and settling for less than all of God. I just want to enter the Holy of Holies.

BUT I DON'T WANT TO BE DIFFERENT!

2010-03-23T09:34:00.003-04:00

1 Samuel 8 relates a time in Israel’s history when they had wandered from God’s plan for their life and decided they just didn’t want to be different anymore. Verse 4 begins, “Then all the elders of Israel gathered themselves together, and came to Samuel unto Ramah, 5And said unto him, Behold, thou art old, and thy sons walk not in thy ways: now make us a king to judge us like all the nations.

Samuel pleaded for the Israelites before God but God’s longsuffering was close to the end and He said, “If that’s what they want then give it to them! But first, tell them the consequence of such a request.” Verse 10; “And Samuel told all the words of the LORD unto the people that asked of him a king. 11And he said, This will be the manner of the king that shall reign over you: He will take your sons, and appoint them for himself, for his chariots, and to be his horsemen; and some shall run before his chariots. 12And he will appoint him captains over thousands, and captains over fifties; and will set them to sow his ground, and to reap his harvest, and to make his instruments of war, and instruments of his chariots. 13And he will take your daughters to be confectionaries, and to be cooks, and to be bakers. 14And he will take your fields, and your vineyards, and your olive yards, even the best of them, and give them to his servants. 15And he will take the tenth of your seed, and of your vineyards, and give to his officers, and to his servants. 16And he will take your menservants, and your maidservants, and your goodliest young men, and your donkeys, and put them to his work. 17He will take the tenth of your sheep: and ye shall be his servants.

Maybe it was all the royal pageantry, possibly it was the lure of the “good life” that seemed to surround a king or perhaps they were just tired of having the “People of God” target painted on their backs. 19Nevertheless the people refused to obey the voice of Samuel; and they said, Nay; but we will have a king over us; 20That we also may be like all the nations; and that our king may judge us, and go out before us, and fight our battles.

The Children of Israel had forgotten something very important, THEY WERE DIFFERENT FOR A PURPOSE! It began with a covenant, included bloodshed, leading to the fulfillment of God’s plan for their life. God had made a covenant with Abraham and sealed it with circumcision. He promised to make Abraham’s seed a great nation. His plan was that they would follow God as He led them and spoke to them through an anointed servant. God wanted to be their judge, their provider and fight their enemies. The purpose of the Israelites was to trust wholly in God, glorify Him in the eyes of the heathen and be the mouthpiece pointing the way to Jesus Christ. It was all lost because THEY DIDN’T WANT TO BE DIFFERENT!

Yesterday, Congress passed a landmark piece of legislation granting everyone in America with the pseudo-right to health care. Sounds like a utopian piece of legislation, right, until you examine the consequences to its enforcement. It will require heavier taxation on working Americans, allow more government encroachment into our lives, force us into supporting immoral decisions and burden our children and grandchildren with unbelievable debt. The mantra from the President, Congress and Universal Health Care supporters is, “NOW WE WILL BE LIKE EVERY OTHER NATION! Have we forgotten, the United States was not founded to be like every other nation? Our country began with a covenant; The Declaration of Independence and was sealed with the Constitution. Our forefathers shed blood to establish this great nation and our sons and daughters have continued to spill blood to preserve the freedom and rights guaranteed by the Constitution. We were to be a Beacon of Hope to the rest of the world, a nation portraying the idea that a people allowed to live in freedom, dream, work hard and receive rewards earned from their labor would rise to unimaginable heights. We would invent, create and achieve things no other nation had ever accomplished. In doing so we would point the way to freedom and prosperity for oppressed people everywhere. Our ideals are rapidly being consumed because WE DON’T WANT TO BE DIFFERENT!

Our salvation began with the shed blood of Jesus Christ and has been sealed with the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 1:13 promises, In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise. We ARE DIFFERENT FOR A PURPOSE! God does not intend for His Church to BE LIKE EVERYONE ELSE! We are to be a light to those in darkness pointing the way to salvation through Jesus Christ. It requires a transforming of our mind from a world view to a God view. We have to stand firm against evil and sometimes deny ourselves things that seem so desirable. Many times it may feel like you have a target painted on your back, but before you cry, I DON’T WANT TO BE DIFFERENT, remember you have been redeemed with a great price. If you want to have the favor of God on your life, enjoy His abundant blessing and fulfill His purpose for you, YOU CAN’T BE LIKE EVERY OTHER PERSON, YOU ARE GOD’S CHILD!

SKINNED KNEES BUT STILL RUNNING

2010-03-13T11:13:00.005-05:00

The Winter Olympics were held in Vancouver a few weeks ago. I held my breath as snowboarders performed on the half-pipe. I groaned when Lindsey Vonn wiped out on the Giant Slalom and cheered the United States team as they scored to send the gold medal hockey game into overtime. The grace and beauty of Women’s Figure Skating is always a big draw and this year was no exception. I enjoyed watching the skating competition finals and was captured by the sparkling personality of gold-medalist Kim Yu-Na and the story of bronze-medalist Joannie Rochette, who skated despite losing her mother to cancer, the previous Monday. In my opinion, the most inspirational moment is the Medal Awards Ceremony. The top 3 finishers stand on platforms with the gold medal winner in the middle on the highest pedestal, the silver medalist stands on the right hand of the gold medalist and the bronze medal winner stands to the left. In turn, each winner bows his/her head as the medal is placed around their neck, then the gold medalist stands at attention as the national anthem of his/her country is played in their honor. With tear-filled eyes, the winner sings the words to his/her country’s song and then proudly raises a bouquet of flowers to acknowledge the accolades of the crowd.

We are running a race in Life’s Olympics. It isn’t held just every four years but it is a lifelong pursuit. The motivating factor, as it is to the Olympians, is the promise of a prize. In 1 Corinthians 9:24, Paul reminds us, “Know you not that they which run in a race run all, but one receives the prize? So run, that you may obtain.” Not only does Paul tell us there is a prize to claim but he instructs us that the prize cannot be obtained if you don’t enter, run and finish the race. There are many young people who watch the Olympics and dream of winning the gold medal but they will never stand on the platform to receive the prize. The reasons may include a lack of talent but for the most part it is a lack of discipline. We watch the “glory” of the Olympic Games and forget about the years of training, pain, failure, tears and frustration that each Olympian brings to the competition. Paul continues in 1 Corinthians 9:25 & 27, “And every man that strives for the mastery is temperate in all things” and “But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection.”

Most Christians agree on the prize but have varying opinions when it comes to running the race. For some it is a mental assent and a verbal declaration; I believe in my heart and accept Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. This is a wonderful start but PLEASE DON’T STOP, you haven’t obtained the prize! An Olympic champion is not the person who watches the Olympics and states, “someday I want to win a gold medal!” Others declare that there must be true repentance (sacrificing the old life on the altar) and baptism to wash the old away and become a new creation in Christ. All biblical but PLEASE DON’T STOP, you are just entering the training facility! To win the prize, you have to continue the training as you continue your pursuit. Still others have embraced Peter’s message to the early church. On the Day of Pentecost, when asked, “What must we do to be saved?” Peter declared that Repentance was necessary, each participant must be baptized in the Name of Jesus and go on to receive the Holy Spirit. But PLEASE DON’T STOP, you are at the starting line and the race is about to begin. Remember, Paul says that you have to “run to obtain."

In Life’s Race, unlike the Olympic Games, everyone who finishes the race receives the prize. In my mind I can visualize Heaven’s Award Ceremony. What a day that will be when I stand on the pedestal of Heaven and bow my head as Jesus places, not a gold medal around my neck, but a “Crown of Righteousness” on my head. I’m sure tears of joy will spill over when I hear the angels begin to sing Heaven’s anthem. Then as all of Heaven cheers, I will cast my crown at the feet of my Savior in awe and worship. “I Can Only Imagine!”

I began the race over 43 years ago. It hasn’t been the sprint I imagined but it has turned into a marathon. There have been moments when I thought the grassy expanse might be an easier way then the straight and narrow path. Many times I trip and fall, but with bruised legs and skinned knees, I keep pressing on. Voices from the crowd try to distract me, I grow weary dealing with the “cares of life” and sometimes, it seems I don’t have the strength to take another step, that’s when my training takes over. A still, small voice whispers, “You can make it, I am with you.” I get a “second wind,” the end is in sight and the prize is waiting. Paul sums up life’s race to Timothy in 2 Timothy 4:7-8 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

HE'S GOD OF THE MONDAYS TOO!!

2010-03-07T15:46:00.006-05:00

I am a Facebook junkie! I love being connected to friends and family, sharing amusing stories and pictures of our kids and grandkids. Most amazing, however, is the insight into each person’s personality and philosophy that I’m given by the multiple updates posted each day. Matthew 12:34 tells us that it is from the abundance of the heart that our mouth speaks. If the Bible had been written in 2010, it might read from the abundance of the heart your Facebook update will read. It has been said on many occasions that according to Facebook Updates, no one has a bad Sunday Service. Everyone is blessed, excited about going to church, is looking for God to do great things in the midst of His people, heard an awesome sermon and was amazed at the presence of God in the service. If you don’t believe me go to your Facebook page and read everyone’s update from Sunday. Now read the updates beginning Monday morning. The excitement has faded or disappeared, the awesome sermon is yesterday’s news, and the fact that you have a job seems more of a curse than a blessing. What happened? Is God only a Sunday God or is He God of the Mondays, too?

In 1 Kings 20, we read the story of Benhadad, King of Syria and Ahab, King of Israel. The King of Syria amassed a large army and sent word to Ahab that he was coming to take his silver, gold, wives and children. Ahab replied, “Oh king I am thine and all that I have.” But that was not enough for Benhadad, his message to Ahab was, “besides your silver, gold, wives and children, I am going to let my soldiers search your house and that of your servants and take anything that pleases them.” This went too far, even for Ahab, so he gathered his army together and went to fight the Syrians. God had promised to deliver the Syrians into the hands of the Israelites and they won a great victory that day. Benhadad was confused. His armies were larger, had better equipment and were led by seasoned commanders; why had they been defeated? I Kings 20:23 And the servants of the king of Syria said unto him, Their gods are gods of the hills; therefore they were stronger than we; but let us fight against them in the plain, and surely we shall be stronger than they.

Their new strategy was, “Fight them in the valley.” The god they serve can protect them in the hills but get them in the valley and victory is ours. Rule #1 – NEVER CATAGORIZE GOD!!! Rule #2 – NEVER UNDERESTIMATE GOD!!! The Syrians broke both rules and the consequences were swift and terrible. 1 Kings 20:28 "And there came a man of God, and spoke unto the king of Israel, and said, Thus saith the LORD, Because the Syrians have said, The LORD is God of the hills, but he is not God of the valleys, therefore will I deliver all this great multitude into thine hand, and ye shall know that I am the LORD." The Army of Israel believed what the man of God proclaimed and went into battle. 100,000 Syrian footmen were slain in one day, 27,000 soldiers escaped into the city and God caused a wall to fall on them. God IS God of the Hills AND God of the Valley.

God will NOT be limited, therefore, I proclaim today, that God is the God of my Sunday but He is also the God of my Monday. The same God that blessed me on Sunday will walk beside me on Monday. The same power that thrilled me on Sunday is coursing through my veins on Monday. The awesome sermon I heard on Sunday will be bread for my Monday. I will walk in power and victory EVERY DAY. Let us continue proclaiming the greatness of God on Sunday but don’t categorize and limit God the rest of the week. HE’S GOD OF THE MONDAYS TOO!!!

IMPATIENCE WILL ALWAYS BIRTH AN ISHMAEL

2010-02-23T13:11:00.002-05:00

Gr’ma, Gr’ma, Gr’ma, GR’MA!!!! Caleb’s impatience was coming through. I had promised him that we would go downstairs and play after I put Baby Nathan down for his morning nap. Caleb has the patience of a 3 year old and although he may understand the word “later,” later occurs to him much sooner than it does to Grandma. He did not want to wait until I had given Nathan his bath and bottle and snuggled him into bed for a couple hour nap. Caleb’s experience tells him that Grandma has never broken a promise and in just a little while he will enjoy all the fun and personal attention that Grandma wants to bestow upon him, but there is one minor detail missing, Grandma is still upstairs. His little mind reasons, Grandma has promised to play with me downstairs maybe I can help make her promise a reality. Caleb has a plan. He will open the basement door, turn on the light, go down the stairs and then he will receive the promise.

PROBLEM!!! Caleb has birthed an Ishmael!! By taking matters into his own hands, he has what he perceives to be the most important ingredient;”being in the basement.” Caleb is downstairs in the play room but the JOY of the promise was spending time, playing with Grandma and she is still upstairs. The predictable response of a 3-year old is a loud cry for Grandma to join him, which I did after Nathan was soundly asleep. Have you ever become focused on the “missing ingredient” of a promise and birthed an Ishmael? You are not unique; faithful Abraham tried to assist God before “natural circumstances” would prevent even God from performing what He had promised.

In Genesis 12:2-3, at the age of 75 years, God promised Abraham that he would make of him a great nation and that in him all the nations of the earth would be blessed. In verse 7, God promises to give all the land to Abraham’s descendants. In Genesis 13:16, the promise expands from a great nation to so many descendants that they could only be numbered if one could number the dust of the earth. A few years pass and Abraham becomes a little anxious. In Genesis 15, he reminds God that he still has no offspring. God replies by showing him the stars and assuring Abraham that his offspring will be in number as the stars. The years continued to roll by until finally Abraham and Sarah, at the age of 85 and 75, decided to help God out with the missing ingredient and Ishmael was birthed.

I have heard it preached that Abraham sinned, but sin is rebellion against the Word of God and it was not out of rebellion that Abraham acted. We read where God bestowed a blessing on Ishmael and God will NEVER bless sin. I believe that Abraham was so full of faith in the promise of God that he convinced himself that God had just opened the door of opportunity to the fulfillment of that promise. The missing ingredient was not a son, as Abraham supposed, but a much more important detail. Abraham had forgotten who “I” was!!! Ten years prior to the birth of Ishmael, God had promised, “I will make you a great nation; I will bless you; I will make your name great.” The only input God required from Abraham to fulfill His promise was Abraham’s faithfulness.

Many times, I have impatiently or impulsively attempted to fill in a few details that seemed to be missing in the plan God was working in my life. I convinced myself that the action I was about to take was a door of opportunity that only God could have opened. Every time I have forgotten that while it may be MY life, it is GOD’s plan, an Ishmael has been birthed. My life has been blessed and often God continues with the plan to bring the promise to fruition, but not without negative consequences to my actions. Like Caleb waiting in the basement, I have felt the frustration of having all my plans in place only to realize God didn’t have His plan in place yet. As Abraham and his descendants have lived with the consequence of Ishmael’s birth, I have lived with regret over the results of my impatient actions. Oh, I was still saved, I was still blessed, the promise would still come to pass but I had to carry all the baggage of my Ishmael along the journey toward the promise. When God makes you a promise, learn to wait patiently for Isaac, you will not only have the blessing of God birthed in you but you won’t have an Ishmael to deal with before you achieve victory.

BORN TO SERVE THE LORD

2010-02-05T13:38:00.003-05:00

Tim Tebow was born Aug 14, 1987 and is the Heisman-winning quarterback for the Florida Gators. His parents were missionaries to the Philippines when Tim was conceived. His mother suffered a life-threatening infection while pregnant and her unborn baby suffered a severe placental abruption. Doctors recommended that his mother abort the baby to save her life but she refused. Tim was carried to term and both he and his mother survived. This is the subject of a controversial commercial produced by Focus on the Family that will be aired once during the Super bowl pregame and once during the actual game. The protests are from Pro-Choice groups who argue that this commercial is trying to take from women the choice to have an abortion. Once again they have ignored Mrs. Tebow’s CHOICE to give her son life because the only valid choice to this Liberal group is TERMINATION!!!

Famous pro-abortionists such as Richard Dawkins will argue that Tim Tebow is on this earth by chance and a stupid decision by his mother to risk her own life that her son’s life might be preserved. Dawkins argues that Tim’s life occurred because his parents just happened to come together on a specific night at a specific time and that specific sperm was the one that survived to fertilize the egg. While the facts, as Mr. Dawkins state them, may be true, a new life is so much greater than scientific fact. God may have set the scientific order of reproduction in place and left it up to mankind’s emotions and actions to start the process, but our life comes from the breath of God. Jeremiah 1:5 says, “Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou came forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.” We are all born for a specific purpose and God has a plan for each precious life. We are all “BORN TO SERVE THE LORD.”

Tim Tebow and his family understand the great responsibility each life is given by God. Tim isn’t just a good football player or a popular quarterback; he believes in living his faith. Antonya English, a staff writer for the St. Petersburg Times reports that on his rare time off, Tim works in prison ministries, travels to foreign countries to give his testimony, holds Bible studies and volunteers to help those less fortunate. Tim states, “For me, every day includes four things: God, family, academics, and football, in that order.” Tim Tebow gets it; “HE WAS BORN TO SERVE THE LORD.”

I love the song, “Born to Serve the Lord” by Evangelist Bud Chambers, which has been recorded by several musical groups. It captures the very purpose of life. Here are the lyrics of that God-inspired song:

From the dust of the earth my God created man- His breath made man a living soul; And God so loved the world He gave His only Son, And that is why I love Him so!

My hands were made to help my neighbor; my eyes were made to read God's word. My feet were made to walk in His footsteps; my body is the temple of the Lord.

I was made in His likeness, Created in his image, for I was born to serve the Lord. I will not deny Him; I will always walk beside Him, for I was born to the serve the Lord.

You may not be called to be a missionary, a preacher or a great football player. Maybe God’s plan for your life is ministering to your family. Let God make you the best wife or husband, mother or father the world has ever known. There is nothing more important to God than raising children who love and honor God with their lives and pass that heritage to the next generation. Perhaps you are single and God’s plan for you is to be a Godly employee, a “missionary” in your workplace or a loving friend to someone who feels unloved. If God has called you to sing; sing praises unto Him; write; write something to glorify His Name; pray; pray with fervor for those who don’t know God; if it is to show kindness, you will have plenty of opportunity every day. Whatever plan God has laid down for you from the moment you were formed, embrace it and move into your destiny because “YOU WERE BORN TO SERVE THE LORD!!!”

GOD WANTS YOU TO SUCCEED

2010-02-01T21:07:00.001-05:00

God wants you to succeed!!! Many Holy Ghost filled people live their lives in fear that God is just waiting to pull the rug out from under them or slap them upside the head at the slightest provocation. Lip service is given to God’s amazing grace and His infinite mercy but we seem to think those attributes only apply to salvation and do not include our continuing faith journey. Is it because we don’t really know God or don’t believe God? 2 Peter 3:9 tells us, “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” If we believe this verse, perhaps we just have a hard time substituting “I” for “any” and “all”.

I am the oldest child in a family of six children. My dad was a hard worker and provided all the necessities of life and as many extras as possible for his family. I enjoyed a wonderful childhood and never felt poor or underprivileged. I always felt loved and had built-in playmates; something was always happening at our house. Many of my friends, however, enjoyed some of the luxuries that I was well aware were not available to “people like us.” My best friend in high school would spend weekends at her cottage in Baraboo, WI and she had a beautiful brick fireplace in her living room. We lived in a 3 bedroom, 1 bath ranch, 4 bedrooms, counting the one dad fixed up in the basement. If I ever attained that status, I thought, I would have made it because “people like us” lived in 1200 sq. ft. ranch homes with 1 bathroom and gravel driveways. Many times, I have needed God to reassure me that, because of His grace, I am “one of those people.” God wants ME to succeed!

The book of Exodus relates the saga of the deliverance of the Children of Israel by the hand of God. The Israelites had come to Egypt during the days of Joseph to escape a great famine. They had lived in the land of Goshen for 430 years and were now enslaved to the Egyptians. Their tasks became more and more burdensome until they began to cry unto the Lord for deliverance. God raised up Moses to lead them to freedom and deal with Pharaoh. It was God’s desire to deliver his people then just as it is today. This verse in Exodus illustrates how far God will go to deliver and protect us even when our hearts aren’t exactly true. Exodus 13:17 says, “And it came to pass, when Pharaoh had let the people go, that God led them not through the way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near; for God said, Lest peradventure the people repent when they see war, and they return to Egypt.” God wanted freedom for His people so badly that he led them in a way that would not tempt them to return to a foreign land and live as slaves. God wanted them to succeed!

You are one of God’s people and He will go to any length necessary for you to be successful in your journey with Him. When He filled you with the Holy Spirit, He endowed you with the necessary power to walk into liberty. If you will follow the path God has laid for you, He will lead you out of the reach of the pull of Egypt and into freedom. You can live a wonderful, fulfilled life today and be assured of eternal life tomorrow. God wants YOU to succeed!