Being Busy For Jesus!

and the fire will test the quality of each man’s work.
1Corinthians 3:13

Tom and Galinda were exhausted. Misguidedly, they believed that laboring for the Lord was meant to be that way. “After all,” Tom was fond of saying, “the Bible says, ‘each will be rewarded according to his labor’ so the more we labor, the bigger the reward!” And with that mindset they went about being busy for Jesus! They had a plan and disciplined themselves to stick to it. Their satisfaction at the end of each day began to wane but they pushed on, knowing things would get better if they just stuck to their plan. After all, Jesus expected them to stay busy … didn’t He?
After ten years of non-stop being busy for Jesus, they felt more like under-appreciated and underpaid employees than servants of the King. Serving had gone from a labor of love to hard labor. They couldn’t remember the last time they’d actually enjoyed what they were doing. To the best of their recollection it had been years. And weren’t they supposed to be compensated for their labor? Hadn’t God promise them an exciting life of service with reward? This certainly wasn’t rewarding! They had even forgone having children so they could commit more time to God’s work!
Disgruntled and disillusioned, they resigned as committee heads of every group they were involved in, and left the church.

†

God’s people are designed to serve Him with zeal and passion. Yet sadly, many equate busyness to quality of service. Spurred on by this mentality they set to work, not understanding that what they’re doing is not what God wants.
Failing to ask God what’s important to Him will lead to spiritual frustration and a sense of overwhelming disappointment. Many Christians live in perpetual turmoil, never understanding they are laboring in vain, and their works will be consumed by fire. They themselves will be saved, but their work will be consumed.
Being busy for Jesus isn’t God’s idea of service. If we make time each morning to ask for instruction we will remove a lot of stress from our lives, and our works will stand the fiery test.

Prayer

“Good morning, Lord. I want to do what You want me to do today. What would You have me do? Amen.”

Marshmallows

… while we wait …
Titus 2:13

The Sunday school teacher placed one marshmallow in front of each of her ten students. “Please wait to eat your marshmallow until I say it’s all right. Once I give you permission, you are free to eat it. I must leave the room. If you wait to eat your marshmallow until I return, I will give you a second marshmallow. If you choose to eat it before I return, you will not receive a second one.” With that, she left the room.
Six of the children immediately grabbed and ate their marshmallow.
Three children sat patiently, hands in their laps, watching their peers enjoy the tasty treat.
As time passed, the wait showed on one little boy. Just as he grabbed his marshmallow, the teacher opened the door! The boy slowly placed it back on the table.
The teacher acknowledged the four children’s restraint. “You didn’t give in to a desire to eat your marshmallow.” Placing a second marshmallow in front of them, she continued, “Here is your reward for waiting.”
She then announced, “I must leave again. If both marshmallows are uneaten when I return, I will give you two more.” The kids who had eaten their marshmallow were visibly disappointed. “For those who ate their marshmallow, if you will remain seated and silent until I return, I will give you one more marshmallow.” With consequences versus reward fresh in their minds, the six remained quietly in their seats.

†

The temptation to eat our marshmallows is great. Without hesitation, many of us devour them without a second thought. The hope within the promise isn’t tangible enough to discipline our desires. But once we witness the reward of self-discipline, we gain new perspective, one that gives us hope.
“While we wait” is not a passive proclamation. It is an action-filled opportunity to bring ourselves under the control of Someone else in the hope of being rewarded with a life more like Christ’s, full of love, joy, and peace.
Watching someone else do it gives us hope. Our struggle gets easier as we experience the reward.

Prayer

“The temptation is great, Lord. I can’t do this on my own, I need Your help. Teach me to wait on Your reward. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

The Chrysalis

Behold, I make all things new.
Revelation 21:5 (kjv)

Sitting alone in the woods, contemplating her life, Bryanna wondered how she could have slipped so far from the life she’d envisioned for herself as a child. Only now did she understand the destruction she’d caused and realize her inability to atone for her mistakes. “Lord, if You’re really here, now would be a good time to show Yourself,” she said aloud, thinking there was about a one in a billion chance of Him showing up.
But to her utter amazement, He appeared in the next moment. As she surveyed her surroundings, Bryanna noticed something hanging from the small limb of a nearby bush. Moving closer, she realized with wonder that she was looking at a chrysalis. A caterpillar had woven its cocoon recently, and had begun the metamorphosis to its current state. Now, a butterfly was fighting to emerge from its protection to begin a new life.
She knelt and watched as the struggle culminated with the butterfly’s emergence. It hung from its transitory dwelling, drying its wings in the brilliant sunlight. Then it flew away. As she watched it light on flower after flower, she heard God whisper, “You too can begin a new life, Bryanna. It will require a bit of struggle, but the change can be as dramatic as this insect’s you just witnessed. Would you trust Me to make things new?”

†

How sweet is the knowledge that God makes things new each time we bring our pitfalls to His throne, laying them before Him, asking forgiveness! And how many times have we, like Bryanna, made a mess of things, only to seek God’s intervention? It is beyond human comprehension how God can forgive the vile things we have done and then forget them. But He does, and He will. And the life we are able to live following repentance is a life unmarred by past sin.
Today’s text speaks of God’s loving mercy. It is powerful enough to recreate our lives, making us brand new. But only if we accept His Son as our Savior and come asking forgiveness. If we do this, He promises we will be changed!

Prayer

“Lord, change me from who I am today. Transform my life and make me new. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

This post is in memory of Army Staff Sergeant Shamus Goare, and dedicated to Judy and Charlie Goare, who know what it means when we say, "All gave some, but some gave all!"

The Supreme Sacrifice

Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

John 15:13 KJV

As I listened to the 2011 Memorial Day address, I thought of how so many had given so much for our freedom. Many families in our small community had sons and daughters in harms way, in a hostile land. But one individual here knew the pain of supreme sacrifice. Charles and Judy Goare’s son, Shamus had been killed in Afghanistan, and Judy was in attendance to honor their son.      

I was reminded of another difficult and bittersweet day for the Goares: “Mr. President,” Senator Mike DeWine announced in the December 8, 2006 Session. “This afternoon I would like to pay tribute to Army Staff Sergeant Shamus Goare from Danville, Ohio. He was killed on June 28, 2005, when his helicopter was shot down over Afghanistan.”   

Midway through his tribute the Senator shared, “Mr. President, shortly before his death Shamus received a Medal of Valor for humanitarian work in Afghanistan. Shamus was working with children, which was something his father said he dearly loved…Life in the military was a good fit for Shamus. It led him to a series of selfless and compassionate acts of heroism, many of which he could not divulge to his family due to the nature of his work with the 160^th’s Night Stalkers. And true to their motto, Shamus never quit—even to the very end.”

Following the service I, as well as many others, hugged Judy and thanked her for Shamus, for his life and sacrifice, and for our freedom. In that tearful embrace Judy responded, “You are so welcome…thank you for remembering my son.”     

†

There is no way we can repay the Shamus, Judy, and Charlie Goares of this Nation. Neither can we repay Jesus for the supreme sacrifice He made on our behalf.

Shamus died so that we might live in freedom from tyranny and oppression, able to enjoy the freedom to worship as we choose.   

Jesus died to give us complete freedom, freedom from the penalty sin demands, and the freedom to spend eternity with Him. Greater love hath no man than this.      

Prayer

“Father of Comfort, be with those who have lost loved ones who have served to keep me free. And thank You for true eternal freedom through the death of Your Son, Jesus. Amen.”

Courageous!

Be strong and courageous…for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.

Joshua 1:9

As Mr. Croskey related his harrowing story I was amazed at the calm in his voice, “Have you ever seen that TV show, Deadliest Catch,” he asked? I nodded that I had. “Some of the shows were shot in the North Atlantic,” he said. “It was 1940. Our Third Infantry was headed for France by way of Halifax, Nova Scotia. The wind was up and the seas were rolling at about ten feet. Then, all of a sudden, these forty footers came up outta nowhere.” His voice showed no sign that he’d experienced fear; he simply related the details of the event. “The Skipper turned that boat into the waves and said over the intercom, ‘Grab hold of something men…we’re in for a bit of a ride.’”  

 “Some of the men didn’t handle it so well,” he chuckled, and continued, “…especially when the stern popped outta the water! Why, that huge propeller spun so fast it shook the whole boat as if it was comin’ apart!” he laughed. “It was a wild ride, it was. Beat us up for the better part of a day before we made Halifax. Never forget somethin’ like that, you don’t,” he said.

I just had to ask the obvious, “Were you afraid?”

“You know,” he smiled, “I knew God was there with me, and that I had nothin’ to fear. Besides…” his smile widened, “times like that let you know you’re alive!”

†

God called Joshua to be strong and courageous. Not because Joshua wanted to be, but because circumstances demanded it.  

Likewise, our courageous service men and women are called to face circumstances that demand they rise to the occasion. Hopefully, like Mr. Croskey, they enter the battle knowing that God is always with them, watching over them like He did Joshua.

Our freedom was not, nor will it ever be, free. A high price is always demanded. The next time you see a veteran, take a moment to say, “Thank you for my freedom.”

Prayer

“Father of courage, may I never forget that You are always with me. Thank You for the strength to face the trials of life. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Who’s to Blame?

Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another.
Colossians 3:13

He set the VCR on record and went back to reading. He knew she hadn’t seen this episode. They could watch it together when she got home.
Returning home, his wife noticed the VCR on record and asked in apprehension, “What tape are you using?” Instantly he knew what he’d done! The look on his face said what he couldn’t voice. “Nooooo!” she cried in anguish.
They’d been watching home videos of their children that morning—precious times and events they had cherished for over twenty years—and now they were gone.
Recorded over them was a meaningless TV show, and there was nothing either of them could do about it.
For the next few hours they lived under the weight of his mistake, silently blaming themselves and each other for the destruction of the tape—she feeling anger and frustration because she’d told him not to worry about recording this show; he because she left the tape in the VCR after they had finished watching it; both because they should have removed the tab present on all VHS tapes to prevent this very thing from happening. Both were responsible, each could place blame, but both chose to forgive.

†

If we look to place blame, we will find opportunity. Each of us has at one time or another displayed glaring shortcomings.
What happens following gut-wrenching disappointment at the hands of another is determined by whether we choose to place blame or forgive. Each time we face difficulties such as this, we are given a choice: do we ask God to give us the grace to overcome the temptation to blame or allow our irritation to foster bitterness?
There will always be someone to blame. Yet, who’s to blame is not as important as who loses when we blame. The act of blaming sets us up as judge and jury. The act of forgiveness sets us free of the heaviness and sorrow. We reap what we sow. Which would you rather experience? Blame or forgiveness?

Prayer

“Set me free of blame, Lord. I know I’ve made mistakes and been forgiven. Help me extend that same grace to others. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Today's post is in memory of NoraJean Langley, my niece's granddaughter, who failed to take her first breath on earth but is now dancing with Jesus! 

The Eyes of Love

But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love…

Psalm 33:18

The funeral service was one of reflection. Much was said about little Hope’s quick smile, her infectious laughter, and how she and her pal, Rufus, an eighty pound English bulldog, had spent much of her short life playing on the floors of the Tickle home.

As the pastor’s focus shifted from Hope to facing our own mortality, my thoughts drifted. Images of Hope dancing with Jesus filled my mind. I could see them hand-in-hand, the ‘Newbie’ to Heaven and the King of Kings! Hope, laughing her tiny, infectious little laugh, looking up into the eyes of perfect love, and He, the God of Creation, joining in the laughter, gazing down at her with an expression of matchless love and devotion.    

Brought back to the present by the end of the service, I was struck by how Hope’s parents were handling her death. I was witnessing strength born of a transcendent love, something otherworldly, divine. That love was bearing them up right now. And with this knowledge came an understanding that they would be alright; they would, with this divine comfort, and the support of family and friends, stand together through it all. Because reflecting from their eyes was Someone else’s love.         

†

Today’s text assures us that God’s eyes do not stray from those who love Him. He is committed to walking with us through our grief, and carrying us when we can’t walk on our own in the presence of piercing heartache, emptiness, frustration and anger, even anger at Him. And this is the love we are to model not only for our children, but to the world. 

We have a responsibility to love beyond what is humanly possible; to love with a love that is unfailing and more perfect than we ourselves are capable of. Were it not for God’s unfailing love being modeled during their childhood, Hope’s parents’ journey through grief would be entirely different.     

God’s love through us can and will bridge the deepest valleys and light the darkest nights.

Prayer

“Lord, teach me to love beyond myself, to love with Your unfailing love. And when I’m the one experiencing the loss, love me through others who have faced this pain. Amen.” 

Momentarily Distracted

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus … so that you will not grow weary.
Hebrews 12:2,3

It was the state track and field championships, and James was confident. He’d cruised to victory in his qualifier and didn’t expect any serious competition in this event.
He’d trained hard for the one-hundred-meter hurdles, spending several hours each day perfecting his technique. He could soar over all ten hurdles, clearing them by no more than an inch. It was all in the snap and lean.
“Take your mark, set … ” Pow! The starter’s pistol sounded.
James got a good start and quickly took the lead. Snap the leg, stretch for the next hurdle, stride, he repeated to himself.
As he approached the final hurdle, James’ lead had increased to ten meters over his nearest competitor. Glancing left and right to see where everyone else was, James’s focus was momentarily distracted—just long enough for him to mistime the last hurdle.
Striking the top of the hurdle with his lead foot, James stumbled and fell headlong onto the track.
What had appeared to be a state title turned into devastating disappointment.
As he lay there regaining his senses, James realized he’d struck the hurdle because he’d waited too long to look back. That split second of distraction had caused him to misjudge the distance; it had cost him the race.

†

It only takes one brief moment to become distracted. The pride of self-sufficiency can take our eyes off our intended target. In doing so, even for a moment, we can miss the mark, become disoriented, and possibly lose the race.
Distraction is one of Satan’s most frequently used weapons. “Hey, over here,” he whispers. And we unwisely give credit to a defeated enemy, looking away from Jesus for a glimpse at the world.
It’s hard to remain constantly focused on Christ, not giving rent to the devil.
That’s why the author of Hebrews was so adamant about fixing our eyes on Jesus, not just casually glancing His way once in a while.
There will always be hurdles in life, and we must have single-minded purpose if we are to clear them safely.

Prayer

“I tend to lose sight of You from time to time, Lord. Help me fix my sight on You alone. Amen.”

Violets

And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
Romans 5:5

They each held a fist full of violets as they rode the thirty minutes to see Gramma in the nursing home. They were so proud of picking them—one or two at a time—from the blanket of little flowers covering the plush grass under the grape arbor.
The sisters had picked until they had what amounted to two brilliant bouquets of blue, purple, and white love! With smiles that matched the joy in their heart and climbing on stools to be seen, they held them at arms length and announced, “Here!” Gramma, who’d had a stroke recently, managed a smile. Delighted Gramma had liked their present, the little girls jumped from their stools and ran from the room, heading for their next encounter with life.
Shaking their heads and smiling, Mom and Dad watched as the girls flew out the door. They continued to sit at Gramma’s bedside, marveling at the vitality of life. In two, it was increasing; in one, it declined, and through it all, the love remained alive, attentive, and selfless. As a tear slipped from Mom’s cheek to the collar of her dress, she thanked God for creating flowers so little girls could use them to say, “I love you!”

†

The cycle of life retains a hope for the future. In each little kindness, we reflect the love of God that His Spirit produces in us. As we grow older, we become more sensitive to His leading and to the gifts He gives us along life’s journey.
As flowers bloom in season, we too develop into something beautiful as we draw nearer to God. We are blessed with special moments and memories that construct the substance of life. In those memories lies hope for the future.

Prayer

“Father of love, thank You for giving me relationships that cause my heart to soar and tumble with the events of life. May hope be seen in my life as I do my best to reflect the presence of Your Holy Spirit. Forgive me when it doesn’t and help me adjust my attitude. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Because Of His Great Love

But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ…

Ephesians 2:4, 5

“Mom lived in fear the last year of her life,” Nancy confided. “Alzheimer’s robbed her of every last shred of physical strength and emotional stability.”

“I’m sorry,” Craig said. “That must have been so hard to watch.”

“The hardest part was seeing how it shook Mom’s faith. She seemed unable to grasp the fullness of the Holy Spirit.”

“It’s disheartening to witness a loved one losing their identity. Many people, as you said,  have experienced a crisis of faith wondering why God would allow this to happen.”

Nancy nodded, “As terrible as that last year was, the final four days of Mom’s life were wonderfully reassuring. God revealed Himself in a most conspicuous way.”

“How so?”

“Right before Mom died, the fear departed. It didn’t reduce or decline…it left completely, it was entirely gone. And in its place was complete and utter peace, with moments of lucidity.

“Several times Mom voiced that she wanted to go home. We tried to reassure her, ‘Mom, this is your house,’ we’d say. Or, ‘ You are home, Mom.’ But she didn’t seem to hear.” Nancy’s smile held a slight chuckle, “It took us a couple days before we realized she was talking about Heaven…!”

I smiled, guessing what Nancy would say next…

“Mom said she saw Jesus during those last four days. As incredible as it sounded, we never questioned the validity of her testimony. The change that had come over her could only have been due to something supernatural, so we knew she was telling the truth. Jesus had shown up to ease her pain.”

†

Alzheimer’s is one of the worst consequences of the fall in the Garden of Eden. Yet in spite of this fact, today’s account has been a recurring theme during the last days of many Alzheimer’s patients. I have been witness to no less than four of these blessings.

God, in His infinite mercy, reaches into the lives of those afflicted and removes the veil of confusion.

When it happens it is amazing to behold. The Spirit of God, through Jesus Christ, is remembered and has come alive once again!

Prayer

“Lord God, we thank You for making Yourself known at a time when it is most needed. May we always appreciate the presence of Your Spirit. Amen.”

God’s New Thing

See, I am doing a new thing! ...do you not perceive it?

Isaiah 43:19

Realizing that her gift of writing was from God, Patty wanted to use her love of poetry to make a difference; to affect people’s lives in a positive way. But recently, she’d encountered roadblocks and setbacks. It seemed nothing was going as planned.  

She decided to call her sister-in-law, Beulah, and pray about the situation. Following their extended conversation, God had led Patty to Psalm 22:22. “I will declare your name to my brothers; in the congregation I will praise you.” She thanked God for this encouraging word, and determined to trust Him for the manifestation of it in her life.   

The next day she received a call from a man who knew of her gift of writing. He had written the music to a new hymn, and asked if she would consider writing the lyrics!

Less than a week later, following Patty’s successful compilation of some of the most powerful words God had ever given her, she received a call from the ‘Antiques Road Show’ asking if she would grace their upcoming trip to Virginia by performing part of a 17^th Century women’s movement, dressed in the clothes and style of the time. Somehow they had discovered that this had been another passion of her’s. She’d done in-depth studies, returning to England in order to uncover tidbits of historical data. She wouldn’t even have to study for this! She knew everything by heart! 

When Beulah heard the news she was overjoyed. And in another moment of God’s awesome intimacy, Beulah shared that following Patty’s call a week before, she had been praying for new outlets for Patty’s giftings!  

†

God’s showing up in response to our prayers this way is not uncommon. Nor should His favor be thought of as unusual. We serve a God Who cares about His children. When we offer Him our gifting for the sake of others, He will put us to work.

And many times, God shows up in ways we could not have conceived, whispering, “Do you not perceive this new thing I am doing?” as blessings flow from His hand.   

Prayer

“I want to be used, LORD, to touch those in need of my gift. Send to me opportunities to allow You to flow through me as someone else’s blessing. In Jesus’ Name, amen.” 

Who Says?

For when you eat of it you will surely die.
Genesis 2:17

The boys had been friends since Carp’s family had moved in beside Benny’s. Growing up together in a small-town subdivision, they shared troubles and triumphs, bumps and bruises. For six years they’d been exploring life together; today they were in the woods that bordered their backyards.
“If you eat that thing, you’re gonna get sick,” Carp said.
“Who says? It’s only a stupid mushroom, Carp,” Benny fearlessly replied as he popped the pinkish-looking mushroom in his mouth and began chewing. “See, I told you. Harmless. Here, try one,” he dared.
“No way! My dad said to leave the pink-colored mushrooms alone. He said they’d make me really sick, maybe even kill me.” No sooner had Carp made his declaration than Benny got a funny look on his face and started choking.
“My lips and tongue are getting numb. Help me, Carp. I’m gonna die!” he blurted out in fear.
“Spit it out! Spit it out! C’mon, we gotta get you home quick!” Carp said, grabbing his friend’s arm and slinging it over his shoulder.
Fifteen minutes and two shots later, a scared and remorseful Benny was loaded onto a stretcher, an IV in his small arm to offset the anaphylactic shock he was experiencing.

†

Carp and Benny represent two general mindsets within society. One believes what they are told and follows the rules set before them; the other must figure it out for themselves. Many of us fall into the latter, causing ourselves and those we love a multitude of problems.
There is within us an incessant need to discover, lay claim to, and control the issues of life. God created us to go forth; but in some areas, such as today’s example and text, we are forbidden to proceed. One step across the line can result in death, physically and/or spiritually. Who says? God says!
We are given free will. His Spirit tells our spirit which things are off limits. Even in our mistakes, His grace will chase us to the ends of the earth. He leaves it up to us to respond.

Prayer

“My independent mind-set leads me to places I shouldn’t go, Lord. Please help me rein in that insatiable desire to explore places that are off limits. Amen.”

The Greatest Treasure of All

When a man found it, he hid it again … and sold all he had and bought that field.
Matthew 13:44

Chris turned off the trail and struck out in a more direct line toward home. He’d never been through this part of the forest, but he was tired and wanted to get home. As he ventured on, he recalled stories from childhood his father had told about people getting lost in this part of the woods.
Pressing on, Chris came upon an old stone foundation. It appeared to have been a large structure in its day. His weariness momentarily forgotten, Chris decided to investigate.
Walking the foundation’s perimeter, Chris discovered the entrance to an old cellar. It appeared to have been covered by dirt and weeds until recently when the rotting wood had given way, sagging into the stairway and revealing the cellar’s existence.
Pulling a flashlight from his pack, he carefully descended the rickety steps.
Chris stood in shocked awe. The beam illuminated shelves lining all four walls. On those shelves were crates of paintings, firearms, stacks of Confederate money, and silver tea sets.
“Someone’s Civil War plunder!” he said in hushed amazement.
Determining to keep this a secret, Chris gently placed the old door back in place and sifted dirt over it. He would find out who owned this property and do whatever was necessary to purchase it!

†

Like the man in today’s parable, Chris had to sell everything he owned to purchase his hidden treasure; his investment was but a fraction of the return.
Chris was quite fortunate; he hadn’t set out looking for treasure, only a quicker way home. He could have continued on in his haste; instead he chose to investigate. The cellar door could have remained covered, or the cellar could have been empty. But they weren’t, and a great treasure was discovered!
God’s Word reveals the greatest treasure of all: salvation with eternal life!
God’s desire is that we would stop along life’s journey, investigate the treasure’s value, and then decide for ourselves if the return is worth the investment.

Prayer

“Lord, lead me into my inheritance. Reveal its value to my heart that I would seek nothing more and settle for nothing less. Amen.”

Lies

You belong to your father, the devil … for he is a liar and the father of lies.
John 8:44, 45

Larissa stood on the edge of the diving platform, asking herself, “Why did I lie?”
She had boasted to several girls at her new school that she could perform a one-and-one-half somersault off the ten-meter platform, the highest in the school’s aquatic center. Larissa had no idea that two of the girls in the group were on the school’s diving team. To her surprise—and horror—they had asked for a demonstration. They thought it was great that the new girl was a proficient diver!
Well, she had boasted, and now it was either admit to the lie in shame or jump off the platform, revealing her inability to deliver on her claim.
Larissa decided she would rather jump and fail than admit she had lied. So, knees shaking violently, she threw herself off the platform, plunging to the water below. She managed to complete the first rotation of the somersault, but did not enter the water head first, as intended. Instead, Larissa landed on her stomach in what was commonly known as a belly flop. Shaken, Larissa climbed from the pool to hear one of the girls declare, “I kinda figured you were lying; I can’t believe you went through with it.”
Ashamed, Larissa said, “I’m sorry I lied. I just wanted you to like me.”

†

In every case, lying is wrong and will only cause negative consequences. Once begun, another lie is usually perpetrated to prop up the first. Soon we find ourselves forgetting what we told to whom. So we continue to lie, building a precarious tower of lies, living in constant fear of being found out. And eventually all the props come crashing down.
As in Larissa’s case, Satan always fathers the first lie. He told Larissa that she would be rejected unless she lied about herself. Larissa desperate desire to be accepted by her new classmates became the vessel by which Satan tempted her. And by giving in to the temptation, Larissa painted herself into a corner and was caught in her lie.
Jesus says that when we lie, we belong to the devil. So the question is, “Do I care who I’m being used by?”

Prayer

“Lord, You are the truth. Lead my heart, my mind, and my mouth to always speak the truth. Amen.”

From Deep Inside

They will sparkle … like jewels in a crown.
Zechariah 9:16

As he studied the stone through his magnifying monocle, the jeweler could see that this last facet needed only a bit more polishing to make it perfect. Placing the stone jig against the polishing wheel and adding just the right pressure, he proceeded to remove the final flaw from the gem.
“There, that is enough!” he whispered breathlessly. Raising the stone so he could examine it once more, he found it exquisite. “The king deserves only the best!”
If the jeweler found it acceptable, the king would be thrilled! And so he should be, for the jeweler had spent many hours cutting this diamond. He had chosen just the right stone for clarity and color. “This stone’s brilliance shall be unmatched.”
The master jeweler took great pride in producing only the highest quality gemstones for those who could afford his services. He knew that not all diamonds were clear or white. Many were imbued with translucent, clear-as-glass colors, making them even more precious than white diamonds. This stone, chosen from one of the king’s own mines, was a deep blue, its worth beyond measure. There wasn’t another stone like this anywhere. “Perfect! It shines from its depths!”

†

Gemstones are formed under great pressure. Many centuries of compression are necessary to turn coal and other porous rock into hardened, gem-quality diamonds, rubies, or emeralds.
The same is true of our Christian walk. We are subjected to the extreme pressures of temptation, trials, and the demands of daily living.
As the jeweler labored over the precious stone, his expertise and love for his trade brought forth a masterpiece. He knew that a stone’s brilliance comes from inside, revealed by the skill and experience of the jeweler.
God labors over us with the skill of the Master, desiring to bring out the best in each of us. He knows exactly how much pressure is required to produce a gem-quality masterpiece. When we have been hardened correctly, He sets to work cutting and polishing our facets so that we might shine, reflecting the light inside.

Prayer

“Help me bear up under the pressure and polishing, Lord. Make me a perfect jewel! In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Agents of Prophecy

Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.

Colossians 3:21

Dell was one of the smartest kids in school. He was also one of the most under-achieving freshmen Mr. Holman ever taught. Finding ways to engage the young man had proven a challenge.  

Mr. Holman talked to his other teachers and some of his friends, intending to discover why someone so bright seemed to care so little about his future. What he discovered was disturbing. Dell’s father was a bully. Although he never touched Dell physically, he broke his spirit mentally and emotionally, spewing venomous curses at him, “You’re so stupid! You can’t even tell the difference between a spark plug and a fuel injector! What the hell is wrong with you?! You wouldn’t make a bump on a good mechanic’s butt!”         

It took awhile, but Mr. Holman showed Dell who he really was. Over time, Mr. Holman was able to penetrate Dell’s protective barriers. Once inside, he spoke words of truth; words to edify and nurture; words of encouragement and support. And by his senior year, Dell’s poor self-image had been replaced by one of hope-filled anticipation. His grades mirrored his intellect, and he began setting goals for the future.  

†

Day in and day out Dell heard he was a failure from the man who should have been encouraging him. Instead of looking forward to a worthwhile future, Dell only looked to survive and escape his father’s harsh treatment.      

We are agents of prophecy. Our children hear everything we say. Not only do our words speak loud and clear, our body language and voice inflection have much to say. Make no mistake…they will become who we tell them they are.      

They go from stroller to SUV in less time than it takes to blink. We have only a small window of influence. We should look for every opportunity to invest wisely. Sometime today, tell your children how smart they are and how blessed you are to have them.   

And, if you tell your daughter, “Go change your clothes, you look like a whore!” don’t be surprised when she turns to the streets for acceptance.     

   

Prayer

“Holy Spirit, give me words of encouragement to speak over my children, help me build their self-esteem. And hold my tongue in times of frustration to keep me from discouraging them. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”   

The Curb

And this is love: that we walk in obedience …
2 John 1:6

Winnie stared at the curb, wondering why Daddy had warned her that it was out of bounds. In her four-year-old mind, she couldn’t understand how a curb could be a boundary; it looked to be quite safe. She didn’t understand boundaries. But Daddy had spanked her once when he’d caught her sitting on the curb, so it must be more dangerous than it appeared.
She didn’t remember feeling scared while sitting on it. But Daddy had been so upset that he had actually shouted at her, and Daddy never shouted.
Winnie walked closer to the curb, staring at it as if it were about to tell her the secret danger it presented. But nothing happened. “Oh well. Maybe Daddy is wrong.”
As Winnie started to turn away, she looked across the street. Mattie, Winnie’s cat, came out from behind the neighbor’s house. She’d been rummaging through the neighborhood. Seeing Winnie, Mattie began bounding in her direction. As Winnie watched, Mattie ran into the road at the same time the next-door neighbor arrived home from work. Amid the squeal of tires, accompanied by an accelerated heart rate for the driver and Winnie, Mattie managed to leap out of harm’s way! In that moment, Winnie received new understanding in regard to the curb. She scooped Mattie into her arms and scolded her, “I warned you to stay away from the curb! It’s dangerous! Do you hear me?”

†

Crossing the curb represented disobedience and a total disregard for authority. Like Winnie, we may not see any immediate danger and think, “Maybe God didn’t say … ” In disobedience, we push on; the lines become blurred, and God’s commands and authority become mute.
We know we shouldn’t be there; yet each time we cross the line, we lose a little more sense of the impending danger, and we lose a little more respect for the One in authority. If we persist in disobedience, we eventually find ourselves standing on the wrong side of a chasm we cannot cross on our own. It’s in that moment we recall the Holy Spirit’s warning, “Please, stay away from the curb.”

Prayer

“Forgive me for my disobedience, Father. Help me to accept without question the limits You place in my life. Amen.”

I Am the Greatest *

Suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.
Romans 5:3–4

“C’mon, James!” Lester pleaded. “Just throw me a few pitches, pleeeeease? I won’t ever ask again—I promise!”
“I can’t, buddy. I gotta get to work. Just toss it up and hit it like I showed you.”
Disappointed, Lester headed out behind the barn to do as James suggested. “Maaaaan.” The word dragged out. “How am I ever gonna be the greatest?”
But Lester, being who he was, made the best of things.
Imagining the hayfield was Yankee Stadium, he tossed the ball into the air; it hit the top of its arc and began its descent. Lester hauled his bat back and swung, missing the ball completely. “Strike one!” he declared. Undeterred, he picked up the ball and repeated the process, this time tossing the ball a little higher, giving himself more time to prepare. The ball came down; Lester swung and missed again. “Strike two!” his mother heard him cry.
Taking a break from hanging out laundry, she peeked around the corner of the barn in time to see her youngest son retrieve the ball and launch it skyward once more. The toss was perfect! She watched the ball drop as Lester timed his swing. He swung for the fence and missed a third time. “Strike three!” he hollered. “You’re out!” What she heard next made her giggle. “I am the greatest; that is a fact. But even I didn’t know I could pitch like that!”

†

Lester’s hope-filled character is a lesson for us all; Lester’s spirit prevailed. In his mind, he succeeded in spite of his apparent failure. He chose to view things from a lofty perspective. He saw himself as a victor no matter what it looked like in the natural.
In each of our disappointments, God includes a lesson for our benefit. These are character-building moments. If we lose hope and allow disappointing results to influence us negatively, we miss an opportunity to learn and grow. If we seek to learn the lesson God provides, we gain understanding.
Are you the greatest? The choice is up to you.

Prayer

“Sometimes it seems as if I fail, Lord. Teach me to see with eyes of hope instead of a heart of discouragement. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

* Adapted from Kenny Rogers' hit song, 'I Am The Greatest' with Kenny's permission

Septic or Sanctified

But you were washed, you were sanctified.
1 Corinthians 6:11

Warren listened as the group discussed sanctification. There were varying perspectives; but, the main assumption was they were saved and that was enough. He smiled as he recalled the vision God had given him a few years before at a time when he had felt the same.
“Think of it this way, Warren,” God began. “You’re struggling through life, doing the best you can. But then you realize you’re standing up to your chin in a septic tank. In your revelation, you determine that you cannot get out of the tank on your own, yet you come to believe that Someone else has the power to lift you out of the stench and onto solid ground, i.e., salvation.
“Let’s say you accept His offer to be removed from your helpless situation, and He lifts you out of the mire and stench. In that moment, you are saved—but you still stink! You are still covered in contaminants that must be removed so you can be free of the vile things in your life. That is the process of sanctification. Unless you allow Me to wash away the dirt a little at a time, you will continue to smell like the world.” Warren smiled as he shared with them God’s desire that we be washed in the water of sanctification.

†

For many Christians, there is a sense of complete relief when they receive salvation, and that’s as far as they care to venture. Their lives are filled with things they would need to give up if they intended to come into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. They don’t care that they still stink like the world; saved is good enough.
Others don’t know there is more. So they continue on in blissful ignorance, smelling, not knowing something can be done to ‘purify them.’
Some come to the knowledge that God wants more for us, and they set out to be washed in the waters of sanctification only to become uncomfortable, stopping part way through the process. God’s desire is that we make a life-long commitment to sanctification, and in doing so, find unknown depths of cleansing!

Prayer

“I still have an offensive aroma, Lord. Continue to wash me until I am completely clean. Amen.”

Created to Be Dangerous

The Lord is a warrior; the Lord is his name.
Exodus 15:3

During his personal morning worship, Jacob began praising Jesus for the work of the cross, thanking Him for the suffering he endured on his behalf and for subjecting Himself to the scorn of those who would kill Him.
At one point, Jacob’s thoughts turned to what felt like blasphemy; he actually had a vision of himself trading places with Jesus on the cross, not dying for the sin of the world, but wanting to relieve Christ of His burden. He felt a momentary sense of shame for even entertaining the possibility that he could take Jesus’ place.
Yet, in that moment, the Spirit of God whispered, “Do not be ashamed of such thoughts. I created you to do great and mighty things. I placed in you the desire to rise to the occasion, to save the day, to be someone’s hero; I created you to be dangerous. You have been made in My image. Am I not a warrior? Do we not have a foe that comes to steal, kill, and destroy? You also are a warrior created for battle! I expect you to have such thoughts. The work of the cross is not for the weak and frightened. You must be dangerous; a formidable opponent.”

†

Ladies, your husbands, sons, fathers, and brothers were created to be dangerous. And for good reason; this world we live in is not safe.
C.S. Lewis said of Aslan (a character representing Christ) in the Chronicles of Narnia, “He is not a Safe Lion, but he is good.”
Men, we were created to be dangerous, to stand against the injustice in this world and the one just outside our vision. If we are to care for those who cannot care for themselves, those who were not created to stand against the enemy in the heat of battle, then we must be dangerous! We must take our place on the watchman’s wall (Ezekiel 33:7–9), not as bullies, but as protectors, warriors who would stand between those we hold dear and the enemies of heaven.
Prayer
“Lord Almighty, teach me to stand against an enemy who wants me dead and powerless. Help me stand as Your image bearer. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”