Left at the IGA

Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine … and go after the lost sheep until he finds it?
Luke 15:4

They were headed for the nursing home to visit Gramma. Sally, one of five girls, was asleep in the back seat when Momma stopped at the IGA. Living twenty-plus miles from the grocery store meant taking the opportunity to shop when it presented itself.
Awakening, Sally found the car empty. Getting out of the car, Sally entered the store undetected. Drawn to the shiny aluminum strip along the display cases in the cold-food section, Sally momentarily forgot her objective. The cool, variegated silver bar (at just the right level for a four-year-old) called to her, inviting her to run her fingernails against its irregular surface. Sally giggled as she ran to the meat case at the back of the store. From one end of the store to the other she went, fingernails gliding over the shiny, diamond-plated surface. It tickled her fingers!
As she turned to make her next pass, she could see up the long aisle and out the doors at the front of the store. She froze! Momma’s car was moving! She was being left behind! She ran for the front of the store screaming, “Momma!” As she reached the doors, she was gently scooped off her little feet by a kindly woman. Comforting Sally and holding her close, she tenderly whispered, “Momma will be back, hon. Don’t you worry.” She knew the young mother would return. And sure enough, ten minutes later, through bullet-sized tears, Sally saw her Momma jump from her car, running, arms extended toward her.

†

Everything changed when Momma realized her child was nowhere to be found. Her purpose shifted from a visit to Gramma to a mission of finding her lost child.
Jesus feels the same way about those who have strayed from the flock. He will not rest until they are safe in the fold. Like Sally, we can become sidetracked by the things of this world. And like the kindly woman, Jesus will send one of His own to comfort and embrace the lost child until, through the tears, he sees Him coming.

Prayer

“Thank You, Jesus, for always looking for us when we’re lost. Amen.”

He Knows My Name!

The Lord knows those who are his …
2 Timothy 2:19

Ricky was on his way to his in-laws to pick up his wife. It was a warm spring day so he drove with the car windows down. As he passed by his Amish neighbor’s farm he was surprised to hear one of the boys holler, “Hi Ricky!” I had no idea any of these kids knew my name! He waved and hollered, “Hi Guys!” to the passel of kids, and thought back to a day almost two months ago, when he and his wife had stopped by to introduce themselves to their new neighbors.
Ricky had to admit he was a bit chagrined that he couldn’t remember the name of the boy who’d just called his; it was kind of disconcerting … and humbling. Yet there was another sensation, one deeper and more meaningful, which surfaced and remained: It felt wonderfully validating for someone to know and call him by name! It was as if the young boy had pronounced a blessing over him by speaking his name in the presence of his brothers and sisters. He was saying, “I know you, Ricky Miller. You matter enough to me to have remembered your name from that first day you stopped at my house.” It was then Ricky remembered the boy had been standing beside his father when he’d introduced himself. Abe! That’s his name! Ricky made a mental note to return the blessing … as well as learn the names of all ten of Abe’s siblings.

†

To be hailed in this manner is akin to being handed a glass of ice-water on a hot summer’s day when you’ve been working all day in the hot sun. Its welcomed coolness penetrates every part of your being, bringing pleasant relief; and this from a mere acquaintance.
Jesus is more than ‘acquainted’ with us. He knows us intimately! His death and resurrection purchased our salvation! He says, “I know you! You matter so much to me that I have known your name from before your birth! You are Mine!” See Revelation 2:17

Prayer

“There is a thrill that runs through me, that permeates my entire being at this knowledge, Lord Jesus! I am blessed because You know my name! Amen.”

A Moment Away

Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples.
Acts 9:1

Ben had lived a rough life. As a matter of fact, he was still living a rough life.
Six feet two inches tall, two hundred forty pounds of solid muscle, Ben was an oil-field roustabout, making his living wrestling thirty-foot joints of steel pipe and pumping oil wells in the dead middle of winter. He was strong and seasoned. He was also opinionated as far as things related to the God of the Bible. Quick witted, he always made a derogatory comment when anyone mentioned God or Jesus, saying things like, “God is an excuse for weak people who can’t make it on their own!”
A friend once asked Ben what he thought he might say to God when he found himself standing before him on the day of his death. He contemptuously answered, “Why, I’m gonna ask Him, ‘Where’s the best fishin’ hole?’” Continuing to pray, this friend never gave up on Ben. He constantly spoke to Ben about God’s love, praying God would draw him into a saving relationship, perhaps on his own road to Damascus, like Saul. And after thirty years of witnessing, and interceding on Ben’s behalf, on a warm summer’s morning Ben invited Jesus into his heart!

†

At times we may be tempted to give up on those who seem to have too rough an exterior toward the things of God. Tired of their rhetoric, we’re tempted to distance ourselves from their unseemly actions.
Saul’s story gives us hope. One moment he was cursing the kingdom, the next he was serving the King. Not everyone who rails against God, breathing murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples, will be changed. But we are not to give up on them. They might be a moment away from nearing their Damascus.
Do you know someone like Ben? If so, ask God for another measure of the grace you were saved by and then extend it to the Ben God placed in your life.

Prayer

“God of grace, give us strength. Show us what the hard cases of life look like to You. Grant us wisdom to know what to say and then give us the courage to speak in love. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

T.J.’s Windmill

Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction; pay attention and gain understanding.
Proverbs 4:1

T.J. was a Massey-Ferguson man himself. But he didn’t seem to mind his new six-foot windmill being John Deere green and yellow. The colors were a good contrast as it stood beside the American flag he displayed every day.
When his grandson erected the windmill, placing it where T.J. could catch sight of it from his recliner in the living room, no one had any idea of the effect it would have on people’s lives.
T.J.’s house was situated in the bottom of a river valley running east to west, allowing the predominant westerly winds unbidden access to the windmill. Windy days were an event; not because watching the windmill itself was so interesting, but because something about that spinning windmill stirred T.J.’s memories, causing him to talk about the past. His ninety plus years spanned countless changes in our nation’s history. You never knew if you were going cotton picking in Mississippi, drilling oil wells in the hills of Ohio, or crossing Germany and France as a medical battalion aide during World War II. As a matter of fact, you could never be sure of what you were in for when the wind blew. But if you listened closely, there was wisdom, experience, and instruction to be gained.

†

Listening is an art form. Listening to the elderly is priceless. Unfortunately, many of our elderly are discarded as senile and troublesome, despite the fact that their very presence proclaims they have yet to complete their final earthly purpose.
There is an untapped wealth of knowledge and experience stored within the memories of our elder statesmen and women.
Solomon instructs us to gain wisdom at our fathers’ knees, not view them as spent and of little use.
By refusing to listen to them, we forfeit invaluable assistance and understanding. We label them of no value. This is foolish at best and at worst is complete arrogance.
They are not meant to merely mark off each day until they die. We should avail ourselves of such knowledge before it fades.

Prayer

“Teach us to respect our elders, Lord. Help us recognize the value of their memories and appreciate their minds. Show us how to treat them with the reverence they deserve and the respect You decree. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Spiritual Grit

Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied. Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh.
Luke 6:21

Jenny had given her life to Jesus two years ago in a prison cell and had learned to trust Him for almost everything—almost. She’d been out three months now and was still unemployed. She was living out of a homeless shelter, spending most of each day walking or taking the bus to area employers, seeking work. Her prison record kept her from getting a decent job, and she didn’t know what to do next. Temporary jobs provided just enough to survive. But she was tired of just surviving.
On her knees in prayer tonight, she was asking God to direct her to where she needed to be. She was still learning this praying and listening thing. Jenny had never cared much about life before knowing Jesus. She’d always gotten what she’d needed by hustling tricks. This honest living stuff was difficult.
At that moment, she felt God speak to her heart. “You let Me embrace you in prison, Jenny. Will you embrace Me now?” She crawled into bed, thanking God that tomorrow would bring her another day closer to Him. She felt peace descend just as sleep overtook her.

†

There is a misconception that the Christian life should be easy, a life devoid of misery and pain. But it’s not—and for good reason. If it were, the whole world would become followers of Jesus. Christianity would be a wholesale religion; it would have no power or meaning.
God is a rewarder of those who show spiritual grit. He honors those commitments because He knows what following His Son has cost each of us. Falling down does not make us failures, nor is it fatal. Get up! The bumps we acquire over our spiritual journey will be put to use for the kingdom. There is nothing that rivals the satisfaction of a clear conscience and the knowledge we are following the King. No pain is so great that it can shadow the truth.

Prayer

“Lord, when we weep, catch our tears. When we laugh, hear our joy; when we fall, take our hand; as we grow, show us more. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

The Black-Eyed Gospel

For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.
2 Timothy 1:7

One of the elders of an inner-city church showed up sporting a black eye. When asked how he got it, he stated, “I did not get it; I earned it!” and went on to relate his story.
As he was on his way home the prior night, two young men jumped him meaning to rob him. When they knocked him down, he could tell they were amateurs. Moved by the power of the Holy Spirit, he began to chide them for doing such a bungling job of it. He railed them, saying, “When I was in this business, we didn’t just knock people down and make demands of them; we knocked them out and took what we wanted!” Seeing he had their attention, he began to share with them the Jesus who had changed his life. By the time he was done, they had heard the good news of the gospel. Although they couldn’t have said why, both young men thanked him for sharing, returned his cell phone, apologized, and left.

†

I am not encouraging you to risk your life unless guided by the Holy Spirit! I am encouraging you to take a stand against the wiles of the devil. Though not everyone has a story like the elder in today’s scenario, we all have the ability to refuse to be bullied by Satan.
Paul admonished Timothy not to bend to the enemy’s attack just because he growls loud or brings something sensuous our way. We are not namby-pamby, spineless children of a powerless god. We were bought at a price we cannot comprehend. And the Father asks us to remember that when opposition comes our way. He has invested great power in us and asks us to discipline ourselves in love. We shall be battered and bruised in this life. Wouldn’t it be good if our suffering were attributed to the cause of Christ?

Prayer

“This world holds fears and temptation for us, Lord. We need Your power to rise up in us when we face opposition. Be near, O Lord, and show us how to stand as children of the King! In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

God’s Long Arm and the Blind Man

Later Jesus found him at the temple and said to him, “See, you are well again. Stop sinning or something worse may happen to you.”
John 5:14

There was a blind man who walked into an American pastor’s church in Ukraine a few years ago. He came forward that night to receive Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. When the pastor prayed for his salvation, he was instantly saved and healed of his blindness! But, as it sometimes goes, temptation was too great for him, and he once again found himself living a life of sin.
As in the story with the cripple Jesus healed at the pool of Bethesda, the man was confronted with his return to a life of sin and told he might suffer something worse if he continued. Realizing the truth of the statement, he returned to this church, where he repented once again, this time with new understanding, and began a new walk with the Lord. God’s righteous right hand had sought him out. Thank God!

†

We have a tendency to believe that once we are saved, we should be through with sin. Yes, we have a desire to stop sinning; no, it isn’t automatic. It is a process by which the Holy Spirit guides us into righteousness, which translates to right living, not perfection.
Once we have accepted Jesus’ sacrifice, we are clothed in His righteousness and are seen by the Father through Christ. It does not, however, remove our free will by which we make choices. The longer and deeper we walk with God, the closer we get and the less sin-filled life appeals to us. But, as with the blind man, we are still capable of sinning. The danger at this point is that we have already been forgiven our sins. By blatantly disregarding this, we open ourselves up to a more extreme onslaught by the enemy, hence Jesus’ warning to the man at Bethesda.
“God’s arm is not too short that it cannot save.” But sinning is not supposed to be an option, despite the inevitable forgiveness we will receive from our Creator.

Prayer

“Abba, almost all sin feels good for a while. Please lead me into the truth of where that life leads and how it separates me from You. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Wounded in Battle

Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
Colossians 3:13

Kim knew Toby was furious, so she kept silent for the moment.
“That really ticks me off!” he proclaimed as he climbed in the car. “I’ve half a mind to go back there and … ” He let his words trail off.
Toby was responding like most of us have when we’ve been wounded by a brother or sister in Christ; he’d smiled on the outside, saying it’s no big deal while a fire smoldered inside, kindling resentment and threatening to choke out all reason.
His countenance was anything but spiritual. But the farther he got from the moment, the clearer he heard God’s voice. “Do you think I missed what happened? I know how much what Tim did hurt you.” Then he felt God ask, “Who would benefit from you responding in anger? Your battle is not against Tim.” He knew this was true, but the wound was so fresh that he didn’t want to accept it. “You can refuse to follow Satan’s plan,” God said. “Have you never been guilty of doing what was done to you?” God asked. Ouch, that hurts, Toby thought silently.
Toby looked at Kim and said, “It’s so much easier to be forgiven than it is to extend forgiveness.”

†

All of us, without exception, will be wounded in or by the church. It’s impossible to put that many people together and not have casualties.
In the moments immediately following the wounding, we are faced with choices: to strike out in pain and anger, to simmer in bitterness until it interrupts communication between us and God. We can spread vicious rumors, slandering the one who hurt us or act self-righteous as though nothing happened, allowing ourselves to carry the wound into the future where it will affect everything we do.
Or we can take it to God, asking Him to help us do what we cannot do on our own: forgive them as God, through Jesus, forgave us.

Prayer

“God of mercy and grace, You have forgiven us so much. Show us how to forgive when it’s so hard. Be close right now because we can’t do this alone. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Living the Memories

For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day.
1 Corinthians 15:3, 4

It was as if he had found a great treasure. As he lifted the lid on the trunk, he was taken by a boyish excitement. He had no idea what he would find. Pulling away the sheet covering the items in the trunk, he gently began lifting each one reverently from its resting place. Greg felt his pulse quicken, and he couldn’t wait to learn what secrets would emerge. A waffle iron Gramma had used still shined as though it were brand-new.
Memories of visiting Gramma’s apartment down the block came flooding back; he’d been but a child. Gramma would fix him waffles and tea for breakfast. Tea was a staple of every meal, especially at 4:00 p.m. since Gramma had been born in Great Britain.
As Greg lifted each item from the trunk, a new and special memory came with it. After several hours of reminiscing, he replaced each item to its resting place and closed the lid. How precious are the memories of living. Though the items would perish, the memories would last forever.

†

Memories are passed in many ways, all of which are meant to impart something of value. As Greg spent those hours in fond remembrance of his grandmother, he could vividly recall the events as they had unfolded because he was actually there for many of them. As it stirs our heart to read about Greg’s joy in reliving the events that shaped his life, we get a better understanding that we have the privilege of reliving much of Jesus’ life and death through Scripture. We have been given eyewitness testimony from those who were there! These are not bedtime stories—although it is a good time to read them to our children—but true-life events in our Savior’s life. He invites us to read ourselves into the storyline.

Prayer

“We thank you for the written record of Your life, Lord. Enlighten our hearts as we open the Word so that we may feel some of what the disciples felt so we may feel alive in the memories. Amen.”

Good Stuff Spirituality

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.
James 1:2–3

Sarah gave cake and soda to her imaginary friends. Immediately following the cake came candy; following the candy was punch and cookies. Two hours later, Sarah, complaining of severe stomach cramps, was suffering from her sugar-loaded free for all. Mom, unaware of what had taken place at the party, drove Sarah to the local emergency room. An hour later, with test results in hand, the physician asked, “Does Sarah have a history of diabetes? Her glucose level is pretty high.” Answering in the negative, Mom turned to Sarah and asked if she’d eaten anything following breakfast.
“Just good stuff, Mommy.” She spoke in a low groan. “What good stuff, Sarah?” she asked. “Cookies, candy, cake, and pop stuff, Mommy.”
“Oh, Sarah! What were you thinking?” The anxiety was evident in Mom’s voice. The doctor assured her that Sarah would be fine. But she needed to restrict Sarah’s diet to nourishing, healthy food for a few days.

†

Early in our spiritual maturation, we lack understanding. We want the good stuff all the time. But seeking only God’s blessing is unhealthy. In His wisdom, he knows better than to pander to our desires. He knows that trials and sorrow will come. Without the tempering that struggles bring, we would be unable to face the hard stuff that will come our way.
A baby chick must struggle against the shell while hatching in order to gain the strength necessary to survive. If the chick is freed from its shell without struggling, it will die. As a loving Father, God allows us just enough struggles to build spiritual strength. Spiritual maturity comes from dealing with life. The Christian walk is hard stuff; we build muscle by resistance. God would not deprive us of the deepest relationship possible, and He will not leave us alone in the battle.
Learning to lean on Jesus builds good stuff spirituality.

Prayer

“God of wisdom. We ask that You hold us as we meet the hard stuff head on. Teach us to persevere. We want more than a good stuff relationship with You. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Anchored in God’s Love

For if, when we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more … shall we be saved through his life!
Romans 5:10

Rebecca and Brook shared a unique bond. People found it ironic. They knew it was anchored in God’s love. Rebecca’s son had been killed two years ago in a traffic accident. He’d been T-boned by a car eluding police in a high-speed chase.
Rebecca prayed for the young man who had taken her son’s life, asking God to help her forgive him. She prayed for him to have a revelation of God’s grace and healing power. When he was sentenced to prison, she began visiting, even bringing him a Bible. With each visit, Rebecca shared stories of her son’s life and how he had loved Jesus and served Him faithfully. During one of their visits, the young man gave his life to Christ. He shared how his mother had also come to know Jesus through someone’s selfless act of love, someone she had never met. He went on to tell Rebecca how, two years before, his mother had been the recipient of a heart transplant. It had changed her life. Before he finished, Rebecca knew—her son had been the donor, this young man’s mother the recipient. Shortly thereafter, Rebecca met Brook for the first time. They hugged silently in a tearful embrace. One weeping tears of grace, the other tears of gratitude.

†

Not bound by a heart of unforgiveness, Rebecca was able to show the love of Jesus Christ to someone in desperate need of it. Being secure in the knowledge that her son was safe in his Savior’s arms, she was able to show grace and unmerited favor to someone the world would call her enemy.
Through the events that took her son’s life, Rebecca was able to see God’s hand at work instead of becoming bitter at the loss of her child.
It can be difficult to ask God to help us do something so unnatural. We cannot forgive this kind of wound in and of ourselves. We need divine assistance. Had God waited until He felt like forgiving us, we would be damned for eternity.

Prayer

“What shall we say, Lord, except thank You for Your mercy and grace, Your unmerited forgiveness and favor! Amen.”

Wise Men Seek Help

The purposes of a man’s heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out.
Proverbs 20:5

Mitch was considering a career change. He’d been collaborating with Drake, seeking help instead of trying to figure it out all by himself. They had been brought together by divine appointment and both felt God leading them to pioneer new territory.
Mitch had an unquenchable desire to discover a deeper knowledge of how he could affect the kingdom of God. That was where Drake came in. Drake was a career consultant/counselor, a godly man with tremendous wisdom. He was gifted with the ability to help unlock other people’s spiritual potential.
After several weeks of meeting together, God revealed what He intended Mitch’s ministry to be. Mitch decided to share his intimate knowledge of the depth of God’s grace with the world through writing. With a sordid past, Mitch was able to explain God’s grace with profound understanding because he had needed it so desperately.
Eighteen months later, with a newly published book, speaking engagements across the country had been scheduled; they would generate enough income to allow for future writing.

†

The assertion “Wise men still seek Him” still holds true. Yet few choose to live the life required to grasp and understand the deep mysteries of God. Those mysteries are hidden for us, not from us.
God is a rewarder of those who hunger for His truth. We must recognize that short of supernatural intervention, we need help unlocking those mysteries. His intention in revealing them is that we would learn from our discoveries.
Mitch knew he was being called to something deeper; Drake understood how to discover what that was.
Pride and self-sufficiency has chained many a productive heart. God asks us to come humbly seeking His will for our lives while enlisting the help of others so the work we are called to might be accomplished.

Prayer

“Holy Spirit, set us free from the bondage of self. Help us to not get caught up in our own version of wisdom. Teach us the better way of joining with likeminded believers in an effort to get at the marrow of Your nature. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Precious Time

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.
James 1:22

“Read the directions, Mikey!” Bruce hollered. “I can’t teach you everything. Some things you just have to figure out on your own!”
Mikey was a question-a-minute kid, and Bruce didn’t feel up to it right now. It had been a rough day, and all he wanted was to finish reading his devotions before dinner.
“Dad?” persisted Mikey.
“For God’s sake, Mikey! Stop asking me questions! I told you read the directions! Can’t you see I’m reading my Bible?”
Mikey saw. But what he heard was, “I don’t have time for you. What I’m doing is more important.”
Mere seconds after Bruce’s outburst, God spoke to his heart; “My Son is worth your time, so is yours.”
Bruce found Mikey sitting on the basement steps, rejection written all over his little face. In his hand was a broken piece of the model he’d been working on. “I’m so sorry, Mikey,” Bruce spoke softly. “I will always have time for you,” he said as he wrapped his arm around his son’s shoulders. “Can you forgive me for the hurtful things I said?”
Mikey’s bright smile and exuberant nod told Bruce this had been the right thing to do. The next few minutes invested in his son would be priceless!

†

Many times we allow our emotional and physical condition to reign over our spiritual lives. None of us are innocent. Thank God children are so resilient! But we can, and do, make the same mistakes with others we encounter on a daily basis.
The chance to touch hurting people as they pass through our lives is incalculable. If slighted, they may not be as forgiving, and the moment may be lost. God asks us to live out the gospel, to give of ourselves—meaning time and possibly comfort—in an effort to raise others to a place they have never been, confident that Someone else has their best interest at heart.
Our actions speak what our words cannot. Whether listening to a wounded heart or assisting in a physical need, this scripture is a call to action.

Prayer

“In the beginning was the Word. Father, may the Word be found active and alive in me. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

The Wounds of a Friend

Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.
Proverbs 27:6

As Kevin sat at the bar kindling a conversation with the girl beside him, he noticed Nathan come through the front door. Just great, he thought through his alcohol-tainted brain. Now I get to listen to Nathan’s fidelity sermon.
Nathan moved up beside Kevin and spoke just loud enough for Kevin and the girl to hear. “Hey, Kev. Missy was kinda wonderin’ what time you’d be home for dinner. She and the kids were hopin’ you’d take them to the movies later.”
Kevin watched his chance for a late-night rendezvous end as the girl got up and left. “What the hell do you think you’re doin’, Nate?” Kevin said heatedly, shoving Nathan against the bar.
“Kev, you’ll regret doin’ somethin’ stupid when you sober up. Come on. You know an affair won’t solve anything. Missy deserves better than this from you. All you’re gonna get from this kinda thing is trouble and heartache. The worst is that Missy and the kids’ll pay the heaviest price.” Nathan led Kevin to his car and drove him home, thankful that Kevin had not argued. It wasn’t the first time he’d opposed Kevin’s loose lifestyle. He hoped and prayed it would be the last.

†

True friends don’t sit idly by and allow us to throw our lives away. When we care enough to be involved in someone’s life, we have a responsibility to him. If we see him making mistakes that could harm him or others, we have a responsibility to intervene in love.
Nathan’s strength and wisdom had spoken truth through the alcohol’s hazy temptation. Only the faithfulness of a true friend had prevented Kevin from making a huge mistake. Out of all the men in the bar that night, many whom Kevin considered friends, only one had proven worthy of the definition. All, save one, thought his actions were acceptable.
True friends tell us the truth. Confronting a friend in love can be uncomfortable. But that discomfort is only temporary.

Prayer

“Lord, give me strength to be a true friend. Help me to never look the other way when a friend’s life is at stake. May You bless me with a friend as faithful as Jesus. Amen.”

More Than Acquaintances

For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.
Matthew 18:20

Greg had met Fred on a mission trip to the Gulf Coast. They had become quick friends in the week they had spent together bringing Jesus’ love to a hurting community. Determined to keep the friendship alive, they constantly stayed in touch through e-mails and extended phone calls. Fred and his family were always part of Greg’s prayers.
Funny how God builds relationships in the kingdom, Greg mused following this morning’s prayer and devotions. Finished with his devotional time, Greg decided to listen to some Christian music on satellite radio. Turning on the TV, he saw it was tuned to a hunting channel he frequently watched. A commercial was advertising a website for trout fishing enthusiasts. Knowing how much Fred loved trout fishing and how he was always dragging his preacher, Tink, to all the local trout streams, he decided to e-mail him the information. Nothing special, just part of the bond God had cultivated between these two men.
They had been sent out separately as individual disciples to bring the love of Christ to those in need. God had taken that time to create a lasting bond between the two. As he sent the e-mail, Greg thanked God for his long-distance brother in Christ.

†

There is no such thing as a casual relationship in the Lord. We read throughout the gospel accounts of the apostles being sent out two by two. And the Epistles show us that the apostles surrounded themselves with like-minded believers: Paul and Barnabus, John and Polycarp, Peter and John Mark. Even in the Old Testament, pairings were evident: Esther and Mordecai, Naomi and Ruth, David and Jonathan, Samuel and Eli. In each of these relationships was one constant adhesive: God.
As we reflect on the relationships God created in the past, let us revere His ability to bring us together for the kingdom in this day and age. He will bring us together in Jesus’ Name and in His power for work yet to be done.

Prayer

“You are the Creator of relationships, Abba, and we give You thanks for the friends You have given us. Grow our relationships into kingdom-changing commissions. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Stewards of Our Wounds

So that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.
2 Corinthians 1:4

Wayne shared with the group about the heartache of losing his wife, Janice, to cancer four years ago. He spoke about her unfailing love for Jesus Christ and how that had translated into their marriage. He spoke of how God had held them both while they walked out that long, difficult journey and how God had comforted him since her death.
Janice never missed an opportunity in her many hospital stays to reveal the love of God to anyone who would listen. She spoke of His faithfulness and promises. Nurses and doctors alike came to know the Source of this little woman’s strength and how she leaned on that Source alone for her answers. She trusted God to do what was best for her and her family as they worked out the details of life with a faith that would not be shaken.
As Wayne closed, he could sense healing taking place in the room. God was using his wounds to minister to others. They were experiencing what he and Janice had gone through. He could feel the Holy Spirit’s approval.

†

Each of us has a story to tell. Each of us has something to offer because we have all been wounded to the point of great grief. Some are in the midst of the pain; others have weathered the storm and are beginning to rise above the heartache; still others have determined to be good stewards of their wound for kingdom purposes. They have learned that by sharing their experience, others receive peace and healing.
The Holy Spirit compels us to comfort our brothers and sisters, not only believers but also anyone in need. In that moment, we have a choice: to reach out and share the healing of our wound in order to bring understanding and healing to those in pain or to hoard the gift so freely given. Today’s text says that God comforted us for a reason.

Prayer

“God of peace and healing, help me help others who are going through what You have given me victory over. Give me opportunities and courage to let the Spirit move in my life. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Suit Up for Battle

Therefore put on the full armor of God.
Ephesians 6:13

Butch pulled the draw straps tighter on his shoulder pads, and then relaced his cleats. He’d gotten shoved around a little in the first half. It wasn’t going to happen again if he could help it.
Butch was a lineman in the NFL. His job? Engage the enemy! Butch was a warrior; he loved the battle! Experience had taught him that his equipment was crucial to his ability to stand and fight. It had to fit perfectly to allow him movement, yet protect him from those who would try to do him harm. The opposing team intended to force their will on Butch and his teammates. This was a contest of strength and will.
This was also the playoffs! You didn’t get here by giving your second best. If you were here, you’d given your all—devotion and hard work, continually doing the right thing over and over and over again, preparing for the battle. This included never taking the field without the proper equipment.

†

We have a very real enemy. He means to take us out of the fighting. We are in a battle for souls, and we must engage the enemy if we are to help ourselves and help save those who are perishing. The victory has been secured, yet there are those who would be eternally imprisoned if we fail to help liberate them. We have been asked to stand and fight. And just as Butch, we must be prepared for each encounter.
Paul tells us to “put on the full armor of God—and pray in the Spirit.” With preparation and guidance from God, we suit up for battle. To go into combat unprepared, without our armor or weapons, is to invite premature death. God has armor for each individual warrior. But it will do no good if it’s hanging in heaven’s locker room.

Prayer

“Today, I put on Your armor, Lord—the belt of truth; the breastplate of righteousness; the shoes of the readiness of the gospel of peace; the helmet of salvation. I take up the shield of faith and the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God! And I wield these weapons against the evil one. In Your Power and Name, amen.”

He’s My Son!

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son.
John 3:16

Bob and Shari were concerned as they watched their eighteen-month-old son being wheeled toward the operating room. Knowing that he was in God’s hands the danger of open-heart surgery was still real, making the next three hours difficult to endure.
When the surgeon announced the procedure had been a complete success, Bob and Shari wept openly and unashamedly.
Their elation was short lived, however, replaced by the news that another child, whom they had come to know during their stay had died in surgery. They had grown close to the family, and this was an awful blow.
They sought out the parents and not knowing what to say, just hugged them and wept. Bob prayed for words that might ease their pain somewhat. In that moment, he felt God say, “I know how they feel. My Son also died when He didn’t deserve to. But because of My Son’s death, their son is with me! Tell them I love their son with the same love that sent my Son to the cross of Calvary.”
Through sobs, they listened to God’s message of love. Though nothing could truly ease their pain right now, Bob’s words brought the hope of a grand reunion in eternity.

†

One child lives, another dies. It’s unexplainable, unfair, and feels so wrong that we can’t put words to the pain. Too many parents have felt the sting of the premature death of a child.
Infant death is so hard and so premature that it can’t possibly be right. God says, “I know what you are feeling, child. Mourn, but allow My promise of an eternal reunion to fill your spirit. My Son has overcome the grave; because of that, you will live forever and will never again feel separation anxiety!”
Death brings a crisis of faith; do we believe in eternal life? If so, we have this hope that if we believe in His Son we have eternal life! The Father says, “Believe in Jesus; He’s My Son!”

Prayer

“Thank You for Your love that is so much deeper than ours. Thank You that You know how our hearts ache in times of loss. Thank You for Your only Son! Amen.”

The Web

No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
2 Corinthians 10:13

I watched as the wasp struggled to free itself from the web. The more he struggled, the more entangled he became. It began when the wasp spotted a fly stuck in the web, wings buzzing, franticly trying to escape. It seemed like such an easy meal. All the wasp had to do was kill a helpless fly.
The moment he attacked, stinging the fly, the spider emerged from the funnel in the center of its web.
With the wasp’s attention focused on the fly, the spider quickly attached a slender thread of silk to the wasp’s leg. Trying to break free, the wasp’s movements actually managed to get him more entangled. As the wasp weakened, the spider returned from the funnel and spun a cocoon of silk around its helpless prey.

†

Like the spider in the story, Satan sets out to deceive his prey. The way he tempts us is always seductive. Although he cannot read our thoughts, he has seen enough of our poor choices to know how to tempt us. The truth is most sin feels good. But there are always consequences.
As in the wasp’s case, what Satan tempts us with will initially appear beneficial. He focuses our attention away from the things that ensnare us, hoping we will take the bait. The wasp saw nourishment and was lured into the web.
We must be on guard and remember that one poor choice can trap us in a revolving door scenario that appears to have no exit. Unlike the wasp’s confinement, our bonds can be broken.
As today’s text shows, there is always a way of escape. But we must choose to take it. When we enter in to a relationship with Jesus Christ, He will lead us to the way out.

Prayer

“Lord, please give me strength to resist temptation today. Help me relate to You in such a way today that I can see any temptation for what it is. Amen.”

We Cry Out

In my distress I called to the Lord; I cried to my God for help. From his temple he heard my voice.
Psalm 18:6

Standing in church with his hands raised to heaven, Mitch was thinking of the day God had gotten all there was of him to get. He’d been discing along the fence row of a plowed field. As he always did, Mitch was ducking under the overhanging branches, lifting them out of the way as he circled the outer edges of the field.
This time, however, he miscalculated the size and strength of one limb in particular. Trying to duck under while lifting it, the branch wouldn’t give. In the blink of an eye, he was dragged out of his seat and over the back of the tractor, landing on top of the ten-foot disk. As the churning disks grabbed at his clothes, Mitch cried out, “Help me, Lord!” The tractor stopped! Amazed, he rose up to discover the limb had broken as it knocked him from his seat. It had caught in the fan belt of the engine, stalling it and stopping the forward motion of both tractor and disk. Looking up, Mitch whispered, “Thank You, Lord.”

†

Helpless before God, we catch a glimpse of how deep and fathomless His love for us is. This God, the One Who loves us so much that He sent His Son to cancel a debt we owed, watches over us. That payment purchased our ability to relate with God in such a way that we can cry out and be heard! No longer must we offer blood sacrifices to be absolved from our sin. Today we can come boldly before the throne of God with an assurance of being heard. We should, however, come with reverence and the sacrifice of praise, declaring His wonderful love and mighty power. Most of the time, God’s work goes unnoticed. But when we cry out in distress, be assured He will respond.

Prayer

“I am awed by Your provision, Abba. You protect me from the enemy and myself. You rescue me from my mistakes and warn me of impending trouble through Your Holy Spirit. Thank You, Jesus, for the sacrifice of love that allows me to come directly to the throne room. Amen.”

Someone Is Starving

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
Matthew 5:6

The chef watched as the people filled their plates, choosing entrees and side dishes. Taste and preference made for diversity in cuisine, something this restaurant prided itself on. It seemed there was no end to what you could find on the menu. It never ceased to amaze the chef how people sought to satisfy their hunger with so many different delicacies—choice cuts of meat with garlic potatoes and sautéed carrots—while others ate lightly of poached fish with lemon sauce and a side of cottage cheese with fruit.
There were as many salads as there were customers, and the people eagerly loaded plates with exotic lettuces and all the trimmings, anticipating the wonderful flavor. And for refreshment they served flavored lemonades and iced teas with seven distinctive blends of coffee—so many choices even the most disparaging customer was satisfied. The chef was proud of his ability to meet the culinary desires of each individual. He had never received a single complaint.

†

The wedding feast for the bride of Christ will be the greatest banquet ever attended. Not because of the food, but because we will be feasting with the Groom! We have nothing with which to compare the delight and pleasure we will be afforded on that day. And our presence there will be owed to the righteousness of Christ.
In this world, we will never be satisfied or full. However, the Spirit wants to stir a hunger and thirst within those who want even more!
Like the chef in today’s story, Jesus loves providing for our every need.
Yet, at times, we take our nourishment from the wrong food source. Free will allows us to eat as much of whatever we want. The cliché “You are what you eat” has never had truer meaning.

Prayer

“Jesus, we look longingly to the day when we will feast with you in eternity. Use us to lead others to your banquet table. Amen.”

Oh My Gosh!

For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks.
Matthew 12:34

I watched as Mark reeled in the huge fish. We were fishing for northern pike on Lake Michigan—Green Bay, to be specific—and Mark had hooked a monster! As he continued to drag the fish toward the boat, all he could say was, “Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh! Holy smokes! This thing is huge!” After ten minutes of line hauling, rod pumping action, he managed to net the thirty-eight pound northern.
One of the world’s greatest game fish, the northern pike is a trophy; a thirty-eight pounder is the fish of a lifetime!
I remember thinking, In the heat of battle, the heart speaks the truth of who we are. Mark had not uttered one unsavory word while landing what for him was the largest northern he had ever caught. I was profoundly affected by the purity of his language in an emotionally charged moment. I have witnessed many fishermen who, when given the same set of circumstances, had sworn a blue steak.

†

“Oh my gosh” and “holy smokes” may sound childish to some, especially to those who use foul language offhandedly without much thought of how it sounds or affects those around them. But to God, “oh my gosh” is pleasing.
Instead of holding up a standard, we have lowered the bar with each generation.
I remember when primetime TV used to be language free, a time when the whole family could come together and watch TV, knowing their children would not be subjected to profanity or sexual innuendoes. Nowadays, no matter what time you tune in, you can’t watch thirty minutes of programming without profanity and sex invading your living room. It has permeated every aspect of society.
Caught swearing, a student told his guidance counselor, “It just slipped out.” To which the guidance counselor replied, “If you don’t practice it so much, it won’t slip as often.”
We may not go to hell for using profanity, but when using it, we aren’t leading anyone to heaven.

Prayer

“Teach me to know the power of my words, Lord. Remind me that besides You, someone is always listening to what I say. Help me to not store up wrong things in my heart. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Heirs of Faith

By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made strong. It is Jesus’ name and the faith that comes through him that has given this complete healing to him, as you can all see.
Acts 3:16

Roger was a strong if not large man. He had a deep chest, strong back, and bulging biceps from knowing the business end of a shovel and sledgehammer most of his life. There wasn’t much he feared when it came to brute strength. He had entered and won arm-wrestling contests across three states. His powerful shoulders had always given him an advantage over his opponent.
But right now Roger was on his knees before God. He was facing cancer, and his physical strength could do nothing; he needed Someone else’s strength.
Roger was a God-fearing man. It wasn’t his strength he was relying on today. He was petitioning the One Who had what he needed. He had seen God heal before and believed that the same power that had raised Jesus from the dead lived in him and had the power to bring healing when doctors said it was impossible.

†

Roger’s faith revealed Who he looked to when his own strength was insufficient. He was giving God his undivided attention. Peter had shared the Holy Spirit’s power with the lame man in today’s text. God healed the man to display His mighty power left behind following Jesus’ ascension.
Peter, a man reaffirmed by this same Jesus, knew Whose power he called upon. Roger also knew the Power Source and took his problem to Him immediately.

The lame man was healed because it brought glory to God and revealed the presence of the Holy Spirit in the Son of Man. As rightful heirs, we have the ability to call on that power anytime, anywhere. God is sovereign, and we don’t always get the answer we are looking for. But we can, by faith, come asking and trusting that God will always do what is best for us. Because of that, we can come to the throne in confidence.

Prayer

“Power of God, we come seeking healing today for our lives and the lives of those we love. May we sense Your presence and power in our life today! In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

I Want to Fight Back!

Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
Matthew 5:5

He’d been defenseless against the school bully and hadn’t stood a chance. As Tim, in frustration and shame, finally got to his feet, the crowd was dispersing. They jeered him and branded him a coward. They couldn’t believe he had allowed the other boy to pound him mercilessly without retaliating.
Tim had learned earlier than most that he would experience pain in his life. He had also learned to rise above a sense of helplessness. He knew from experience that fighting would never solve his problems. But this time he had wanted to lash out at his adversary. He felt like the coward they kept calling him.
As he brushed himself off, the crowd walked away. He noticed one girl still standing nearby.
She stepped closer. “Are you okay?” she asked. Then, looking toward the bully, she added, “He’s such a jerk.” Not getting a response from Tim, she offered, “I know you’re not a coward. So why didn’t you fight back?”
“Because fighting for the wrong reason never solves the problem,” came his answer.

†

We are born with an instinct for survival. Allowing something or someone to threaten or harm us is beyond human logic. But when Jesus was beaten, he didn’t offer resistance. Why choose to be beaten to the point of death when you have the power to resist or stop it altogether?
We sometimes confuse meekness with cowardice and fail to understand that it’s our right to refuse to inflict harm on another. Christ submitted because to do otherwise would thwart his ultimate purpose. Meekness does not say, “I will not fight.” It says, “I refuse to respond in kind.”
When we let God deal with our adversary, we choose to yield to His wisdom rather than to react out of emotion. “What will they think of me?”
Would you beat mercilessly on one of your children because he struck you in the anger of his youth? Neither should we beat unmercifully on those who strike out in ignorance or pain.

Prayer

“Lord, I struggle with confrontation. Help me lay down my rights if it is what You desire. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Fearless Integrity

The man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out.
Proverbs 10:9

The roadside billboard asked, “Are you a person of integrity? God.”
Harold was troubled by the question. He had just left a business meeting and had to admit he had hedged his bets. He hadn’t exactly lied, but he had not shared some important information that could have benefited the committee. He believed he might be able to benefit by withholding this information.
The next two hundred miles were spent seeking God’s resolution to the issue. Returning to his office, he called the committee via teleconference and advised them of the information. He went on to explain he would understand if they backed out on the deal due to his deceit. To his surprise, the group knew of the information themselves and had to admit to their own duplicity in the matter. Asking forgiveness, they committed to complete disclosure in the future. Their openness marked the beginning of tremendous growth for each of them, spiritually and in their business.

†

God wants us to reflect His Son’s attributes. Deceit is inconsistent with integrity. The handing over of integrity began in the garden, and the process continues today. Satan still whispers in our ear, “What they don’t know won’t hurt them. You deserve an edge. Keep quiet.” His attempt to persuade us to listen to his lies reveals that his character never changes. He only wants to steal and kill and destroy us.
God’s character never changes either. Holiness won’t allow Him to lie or hedge his bets. Only His kids have that ability. It remains our choice whether we seek an edge in the world or choose to bring all temptation, and therefore the outcome of our lives, to God’s care.
He commanded us to be honest and forthright. Whether we’ve been dishonest in the past or not, He asks us to become men and women of fearless integrity.

Prayer

“You see everything we do, Lord. But because others don’t, it’s easy to be less than honest in our dealings. Help us desire to be men and women of integrity. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Sewing Good Seeds

Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.

Proverbs 22:6

I watched as my son-in-law, Corey, and my son, Eric, walked my parent's rural property with my granddaughter, Jozlyn, following Easter dinner. The 62 degree day was a welcomed change from the grip of a winter that had been both cold and snowy, and up until three weeks ago seemed it would never release it's death-grip.

Watching succeeding generations follow in our footsteps brought a smile to my face. We had invested both time and love in our children, praying they would become good examples for their peers, and role models for their children. They had, indeed, become individuals of integrity and wisdom.

I watched as Corey swept brush out of Jozlyn's way with his foot, mindful that her little feet and legs might easily became entangled in the prickly weeds of winter. My smile widened as the height of imitation played out before me.

Like a track sprinter backing into the starting blocks, seventeen-month-old Jozlyn, bent down, placed her hands on her daddy's shoe, and with one foot, shoved at the weeds she had just witnessed Daddy brush out of the way. Stretching her little body, Jozlyn continued pushing at the one single weed that refused to yield.

“Keep pushing, Little J,” Daddy encouraged.

Resetting herself, she stretched as far as her little body could reach. The defiant weed moved! She stood, looking up...

“That's my big girl!” came the response she had worked so hard for.

And with that, they continued their stroll.

†

What do we look like to our children? What do their innocent little eyes see when we're not paying attention? Do we want them to imitate those actions? Do we exhibit good moral character, or inadvertently teach them things we'd rather they not witness?

In the same way today's text suggests that parents teach their children the right way to live so they won't forget went they get older, our actions can just as easily give them a heritage of destruction to fall back on.

Everything we do and every step we take is an example of how we view life, and what we are teaching the next generation to emulate.

It requires mindful investment to raise good kids, intentionally showing them how to be honest and trustworthy. We will reap what we have sown.

What kind of adults do you want your to children to become?

Prayer

“Help me be the right example for my children and the world, Lord. Amen.”   

Bullied

Rescue me, O Lord, from evil men of violence … they make their tongues as sharp as a serpent’s.
Psalm 140:1, 2

Carl wet his pants in the third grade. The teacher wouldn’t let him out of class. Her rule was, “You go before or after, not during classes.” Seated right behind Carl that day was the class bully. Bully’s harassment of Carl began that day. He never let up, always calling him derogatory names.
After years of Bully’s abuse, Carl became aware of two things: he was afraid to stand up for himself, and nobody else was going to do it for him. He lived in constant fear of his next encounter with Bully.
Carl never forgot those years and became an angry man because of those unresolved wounds, venting his anger in ways that caused additional pain for himself and those he loved. He developed a quick temper and frequently spoke in clipped sentences to let people know they were an annoyance.
God tried to help Carl, but Carl was angry at God for allowing Bully to do the things he had done. For all intents and purposes, Carl appeared to be an upstanding, confident man. In silence, Carl’s private wound continued to ache; he refused to talk about it.

†

Carl isn’t alone. Many of us walk around with deep, secret wounds inflicted by the bullies of the world, hoping no one will ever find out. Satan wants us, like Carl, to remain silent, for in the silence there is no healing.
God wants those who have known bullies to come to Him for healing. He alone can take away the pain. He alone can speak His truth into the wounds of our heart. God is heartbroken over the bullies of the world because they abuse free will.
Free will means that God could not stop Bully from doing what he did anymore than He would stop us from committing the sin in our lives. To do so would mean we had no free will. But God is there in our pain, asking us to let Him heal our wounds. Free will is ours in this matter also.

Prayer

“Come and set me free from this pain, Lord. Speak Your truth to my heart. Bring healing to my soul. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Comfort Zone

Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord will be kept safe.
Proverbs 29:25

David received a call from a friend who was offering free tickets to the political event of the year. His first impression was negative; he disliked political socials.
After a moment of discussion with his wife, they accepted the generous offer. David and Gwen were determined to see what God would lead them into at this event.
In black tie and evening gown, they walked into the ballroom. Finding a table amidst the hundreds of people was uncomfortable for David. Surveying the room, they found a relatively vacant table occupied only by a retired pastor and his wife. The couple introduced themselves and was seated.
They were joined at the table by a county commissioner and his wife, as well as one of the wealthiest men in town. As the evening progressed, David and Gwen spoke openly with everyone at the table but had extended conversations with the wealthy businessman. David exchanged business cards with the man as the evening ended, expecting this might be his last contact with the man. David was surprised and delighted to receive a phone call from him the next day. Over time, God built a strong relationship between these men, allowing one to share his faith and the other to share his wisdom.

†

God will never ask us to go somewhere and do something He’s not willing to equip us for. Had this couple decided to yield to the negative inclination of the initial contact, they would have missed out on a relationship that enriched their lives. They were not looking for what this rich man’s wealth could do for them. They were looking to see where God could use them to deepen this man’s relationship with God.
Fear of power and even money can keep us from experiencing unique relationships with some of God’s most creative individuals. When we open up to possibilities and expand our horizons mentally, God will expand them literally.

Prayer

“I’m uncomfortable in some situations, Lord. Help me put that fear to rest. Teach me to bring my fear to You, where it belongs, in Your hands. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Not on Our Own

This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.
Romans 3:22

As they reached the trendy restaurant, the couple noticed the scruffy-looking teenager soliciting passersby on the corner. Panhandlers were a city staple. “Got a couple bucks, mister?” came his routine greeting. “What are you doing out here, young man? And where are your parents?” the woman asked, the mother inside her rising up.
“Whadda ya care, lady?” came his defensive response. “I got no parents. I take care a’ myself. You got any cash or not?”
“Have you eaten, son?” spoke the man, kindly. “We would be honored if you would join us for dinner.”
Unsure why, he accepted their offer.
Having settled the matter, they headed into the restaurant with the young man in tow. When the maitre d’ saw them, a quick, disapproving manner assumed his countenance. It was his way of trying to discourage them from bringing street trash into his establishment. This was an establishment they frequented. So letting the maitre d’ know that the young man would be joining them, they were grudgingly seated at their usual table. The young man couldn’t believe what he’d just witnessed, someone taking a stand for him in the presence of resistance.

†

There are those who frown on persons who are unable to pull themselves out of the mire under their own power.
Where would we be if God had left us to pull ourselves out of our own sin? Without Jesus going to the cross, we would be damned for eternity. We could not, regardless of the length of time given, manage to do something we are incapable of.
Sometimes people need help. Salvation seeks out the surrendered, those who are aware of their inability to defend themselves before a righteous God. The maitre d’ has as much right to it as the orphan. If we assign salvation to those who look worthy, we will miss opportunities to show others the door to salvation in Jesus Christ.

Prayer

“I really don’t know whose heart You’re working on at any given moment, Lord. Help me understand that none are worthy, but all may come. Lead me to someone in need of Your love. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Not Crushed, Not Abandoned

We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned.
2 Corinthians 4:8, 9

Unable to find the restaurant they were seeking, they settled on this steakhouse. Their waitress was very personable and pleasant. She was a Hurricane Katrina transplant, now living thirty miles inland. She hoped to get home to the coast in the next couple months.
They asked her about how life had changed. She was quick to share how her former employer had provided a fifteen-thousand-dollar debit card to help with temporary relocation.
She spoke about how normal things had seemed the day the storm hit and how much her life had changed since. She and her sister had gone to Florida to ride it out. They had taken nothing with them, expecting to return home in the morning. They returned to the neighborhood ten days later to find the house gone. There was nothing left but the cement slab with the ceramic tile still in place. Yet she quickly downplayed their loss, citing how others had lost their lives.
When she finished, the group asked if they could pray with her. As they held hands and prayed, tears fell. The waitress felt God’s embrace that night; she felt loved.

†

Eighteen months after the storm, it was the first time anyone had offered to pray for her. One act of love can bring the beginning of healing. They had reached out to the waitress in sensitivity and obedience. God uses us when we are available and obedient. If we are willing to step out for the cause of Christ, He will teach us great and wonderful things. This small act of compassion produced several testimonies for the future. When we follow the Holy Spirit’s leading, we discover the outcome is God’s goal, not our comfort. Mostly, we find that others are hungry for spiritual nourishment. Taking time to ask your waiter or waitress if he or she has a prayer need may be the first step to healing. God whispers in our ear, “Tell them I care.”

Prayer

“Show me the opportunities where a prayer can make a difference in someone’s life, Lord. Then give me the courage and strength to pray with them. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Hopelessly Lost

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

They had been lost in the mountains of western Colorado for two days and were at the end of their rations. They had filled their canteens that afternoon beside a beautiful waterfall, the beauty secondary to their mounting concern, and continued on downstream, hoping to intersect a trailhead. It had only led them deeper into the wilderness. It had begun when they had taken a footpath not marked on their topo map. It had looked like a well-used trail. Two miles farther along and several hundred feet lower in elevation, it had played out, becoming a dimly discernable animal trail. Not wishing to double back, creating extra climbing, they had followed the side hill direction the trail had been taking, sure they would find a way out.
Night found them camped beside a small creek just above a deep gorge. Matters were compounded by the fact that they had no compass; each had thought the other had brought one. They had also failed to complete a prehike checklist. Three days later, haggard and hungry, their S.O.S. was spotted by search and rescue eight miles from any trail that would have led to civilization.

†

Not taking a compass into the wilderness is a sure way of getting lost. Even novice outdoorsmen know it’s one of the first laws of hiking. To break that rule is to invite unnecessary exposure to the elements and possible death.
As Christians, we should carry our compasses wherever we go. In it, Jesus reveals the way home. Without it, we can become hopelessly lost, unsure of where to go and what to do. Not knowing the Way, we will die a spiritual death. It’s up to us to explore between the covers of the Bible, reading God’s instructions for the situations we find ourselves in. With the help of other, more seasoned students of Scripture, we can gain hope and knowledge that will keep us on the right path.

Prayer

“Creator of the universe, thank You for providing the map I need to navigate rough terrain. Please guide me through Your kingdom. Keep me from unnecessary exposure to the evil elements in this world. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”