The Arms Dealer

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood…

Ephesians 6:12

The two Generals met at the middle of the battlefield to discuss the terms of a peace treaty. Unbeknownst to them, an arms dealer lay hidden in the bushes, rifle at hand, ready to make sure peace did not prevail.

As the Generals were about to shake hands the arms dealer took aim at an unsuspecting infantryman and squeezed the trigger. Assuming the other side had fired the shot, the man standing next to him opened fire on the opposition. The battlefield erupted in gunfire, both sides believing the other had violated the cease fire agreement. They had no way of knowing they had been used as pawns in a chess match. Sneaking away under the cover of gunfire and foliage, the arms dealer retreated to safety.

The war would last four years and claim the lives of more than ten thousand men and women. During that time the arms dealer sold more than three hundred thousand weapons to both sides, making millions. His plan had worked perfectly: get the soldiers to fight amongst themselves for as long as he could. He couldn’t have cared less about casualties, or the lives of countless families that were destroyed. All he cared about was making money…any way he could.

†

By means of deception, Satan gets us to fight amongst ourselves, carrying out his schemes of destruction. Instead of waging war against the unseen manipulator, we are lured into fighting an opponent who appears to be our antagonist, never realizing we’ve become tools in the hands of a cunning and vicious enemy, an enemy who wants to sow discord in our families, at our workplace, and especially in the Church. He will manipulate anyone, in any situation, to achieve his goal of chaos and destruction.

Paul tells us that by recognizing this ploy as an attack from the enemy, and refusing to take part, we can demolish the devil’s schemes.

Next time, before lashing out, look for the ‘arms dealer’, then take up the Sword of Truth, the Word of God, and engage the real enemy.

Prayer

“Show me when the enemy is scheming against me, Holy Spirit. And help me recognize the ‘arms dealers’ Satan sends my way so I can take appropriate action. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Call It Like It Is

Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might…

Ecclesiastes 9:10

The tag was applied just as the boy slid into second base…“You’re out!” came the umpire’s call.

In the bleachers, the sliding boy’s parents audibly rejected the call. They were sure their son was safe. “We want a replay!” came their ardent cry.

This being the Little League World Series, the game was being broadcast live and cameras had been watching. Wanting to make sure the call had been correct, play was halted as the footage was reviewed. The tape showed the sliding boy’s foot more than three inches from the bag as the shortstop’s glove made contact with his leg.

But the parents refused to give up, “That was too close to call. He should have been given the benefit of the doubt!” they hollered. Cleary they didn’t want their son to be penalized for coming up short; they refused to accept the call despite the overwhelming evidence against them.

†

Very close does not equate to good enough. When we fall short of the mark that’s just what it is. Yet, we have coddled a societal mindset that believes to tell a child they’ve fallen short is the equivalent of calling them a failure.

This “Don’t call my child a loser” ideology has fostered a world system where no one is permitted to excel. Hence, we are telling our children it’s impossible to fail by not calling them out when evidence dictates we should. In doing so, we thwart their will to achieve.

By facing the truth that he had fallen short, the slider would, by nature, strive to do better the next time. When we rob him of this lesson we tell him there is no reason to try for better results. Therefore, his efforts will not be rewarded above a certain level. It’s just too painful to let him experience the sting that could spur him to greatness.

Solomon, the wisest man to ever live, says striving is what we are meant to do. Don’t cheat your children out of their natural will to achieve. Call it like it is.

Prayer

“Lord, help me teach my children to try harder when they fall short of the mark instead of shielding them from temporary disappointment. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

The Sixth Sense

But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth.

John 16:13

Carla was conducting an experiment in sensory awareness. She had blindfolded Jeff, her test subject, and given him the following instructions: “Using your hearing and sense of smell, I would like you to locate four volunteers I have stationed randomly about this room. You may have as long as you need, but you must not move from your current position.” With that, Carla activated a stopwatch.

Being blindfolded was a decided disadvantage, but it wasn’t as completely debilitating as Jeff had anticipated. By focusing his remaining senses on the task at hand he began to detect subtle clues.

Listening intently, he discovered a dead zone in the computer noise when turning his head back and forth. The soft hum changed ever-so-slightly when his head was in a certain position; there was someone very close on his right. Jeff pointed, revealing the first person’s location! Carla was surprised, when a minute later, Jeff pointed directly at one of the two women in the test-group! He’d detected the soft scent of her perfume as it drifted to him from his left.

Jeff’s heightened sense of awareness was noticeable as he methodically worked the room with his mind. In less than six minutes he had accounted for every participant’s position in the room. It was as if he possessed a sixth sense!

†

There is a power within every born-again believer greater and more discerning than our five natural-born senses...God’s Holy Spirit! He is the inherent power and understanding of God, born into us, through faith, the moment we receive Jesus as Lord and Savior.

In today’s text, Jesus speaks of our being guided by His omniscient understanding. I believe this is the supernatural connection we were meant to have, and operate in, prior to the fall in the Garden.

When Adam sinned, God’s Master-plan was deferred, not defeated. God will one day make things right. Until then, we can re-activate our sixth sense by a conscious commitment to Christ, allowing ourselves to be led by power through understanding in mutual relationship.

Prayer

“I offer You the five senses You created me with, Lord. Through faith I claim the awareness I was meant to have so we can be of one mind. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

What’s-His-Name?!

For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.

Luke 19:10

Seth and Rachel were enjoying the day at the County Fair. They had talked to many old friends and acquaintances. This last encounter, however, left them scouring their memories. As they walked away from the semi-awkward conversation, Rachel voiced her embarrassment, “Okay, what is her name?!”

Seth was helpless to assist. He couldn’t remember the woman’s name either! “You know, Rach, we haven’t seen her in over a year and a half. All I remember was that she used to attend Bible study and Sunday Services not long before we moved. Past that, I can’t remember anything about her.”

“I guess we tend to forget names after not seeing someone for awhile; Out of sight, out of mind,” Rachel said in mock defense, frustrated with her inability to dredge the woman’s name from her memory.

“Not always.” Seth countered. “We’ve seen a lot of people today that we haven’t seen in years, and we didn’t have any trouble remembering their names. We just didn’t know her as well.”

Feeling a bit remised, Rachel said, “You’re right. I guess we should have made more of an effort to get to know her.”

†

Developing relationships requires ongoing commitment. To expect to know and remember every nuance and character trait of a passing acquaintance is unrealistic. Only through prolonged exposure to persons do we learn the deep, intimate things that make them who they are. And, if for some reason the relationship is broken, we immediately begin to lose bits and pieces of them; like losing the well-defined memory of a loved-one after they’ve died—their face is still there, but the sharpness of their image has blurred.

Our relationship with Jesus is the same. If we turn away from Him, His Image begins to blur….stay away long enough and we forget the most critical parts of His nature: Salvation; unconditional love; forgiveness; no condemnation; direction …the list is quite extensive. The longer we remain apart, the greater the chance of forgetting His Name…and why He came.

Prayer

“Lord Jesus, help me to always remain in close relationship with You. When I run, block my path. When I stray, draw me back. When I forget, send Your Holy Spirit to remind me. Amen”

Where Are All The Heathens?!

He has gone to be the guest of a ‘sinner’.

Luke 19:7

Rich and Laura had taken Laura’s visiting sister, Carlene, with them for a cookout at a friend’s lakefront home. On the way they made a couple stops to introduce Carlene to some friends who couldn’t make the event. All stops made, they headed for the cookout, where they introduced Carlene to the rest of their friends. The evening was friendly and informal. Everyone, including Carlene, had a wonderful time, and the evening broke up around 11:30.

Although no mention had been made, all of Rich and Laura’s friends were Christians. Knowing Carlene was agnostic, they had prayed for her over the past several years, asking God to reveal Himself to her.

The three all said their goodnights and headed home. Once in the car conversation centered on how great the night was, and what a good time they’d each had. Carlene asked a few pointed questions, setting the stage in preparation of putting to words the one question that had been nagging her all night. “So, Laura, where were all the heathens? I didn’t see a single one tonight.”

Laura, not missing a beat, speaking with mock solemnity, replied, “Why, Carlen, that’s why we brought you!”

†

Only family can get away with such shrouded humor! Laura would have bristled to hear anyone else make that statement to her sister.

But what of Carlene’s question? Where are all the heathens? Once saved, we tend to forget where and what we were when Jesus Christ reached into our hearts and set us free. Although He did it for us, His hope is that it wouldn’t end there.

Like those judging Zacchaeus, some Christians travel in orbits that encircle Jesus Christ but are somehow appalled to consider rubbing shoulders with ‘real sinners’.

Jesus spent time in sinner’s homes because He had good reason—they needed cleansed of their sin. We needed cleansed!

Having received such a gift, how can we not share it with those who really need His message of love, grace, and forgiveness: heathens.

Prayer

“Show me a sinner, like me, Lord, who You want me to share my life with. Then give me strength and the right words to speak, through Your Holy Spirit, that will lead them to You. Amen.”

Obedience

Take your son, your only son, Isaac, whom you love…

Genesis 22:2

Aaron knew he was in trouble when he came down for breakfast and his father hadn’t left for work yet. As Aaron sat down at the kitchen table, Gerald asked, “What time did you get home last night?”

“About twelve-fifteen,” Aaron responded guardedly. Then, anticipating his father’s next question, Aaron said, “I know, you told me to have the car home at midnight. But I was only fifteen minutes late, Dad,” he added, hoping his father would overlook his curfew violation.

“You’re seventeen, Aaron,” Gerald said. “And that means you abide by the rules that govern this household…all of them. You broke curfew. No car for a month. And when we restore your driving privileges you will have the car back by eleven o’clock until you prove we can trust you again.”

Aaron couldn’t resist. “I don’t see what the big deal is! It was only fifteen minutes!”

“The big deal is,” Gerald said, “you decided to disobey the rules. And as you well know, that means consequences.” Then he added, “Aaron, disobedience breeds contempt for authority. If you can’t follow our rules, how do you think you’ll do with society’s rules?”

“I’ll do just fine, no thanks to you!” Aaron responded flippantly.

“Don’t disrespect me, Aaron,” Gerald said, holding his frustration in check. After a minute, he added, “I love you, son. And though it may not seem like at the moment, your mother and I want what’s best for you. But, if you refuse to follow the rules, someday your attitude will get you into more serious trouble than just the loss of driving privileges.”

†

Rules, as many would glibly challenge, are not made to be broken. They have been put in place for our protection, yet many of us, like Aaron, test their limits.

God commanded Abraham to sacrifice Isaac on Mount Moriah. Abraham did not hesitate. Why? Because anything less than his ‘obedience’ would have been disobedience, and Abraham loved God enough to trust Him completely.

When we obey authority we reap a reward. When we disobey we open ourselves up to any number of consequences. Obedience recognizes the wisdom in such a choice and chooses rightly.

Prayer

“Father God, may You always find in me a spirit of obedience and submission to Your protection for my life. Amen.”

X Marks The Spot

This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.

Acts 1:11

Mark had been asked to share at the Communion table, and as God had done so many times, He’d provided Mark an object lesson to share with the congregation. “I want to take you on a treasure hunt where ‘X’ marks the spot,” Mark began. “Most people, who know me, know that I love looking at the sky for signs of God’s handiwork...seeing the beauty He sends in a sunrise or sunset…or the vastness of the night sky.

On my way to work each morning I intermittently glance over my shoulder to catch a glimpse of the sunrise. There’s a particularly high hill that gives a panoramic view of the sky where I always turn and look. On Wednesday morning I was amazed to see that two jet plane vapor trails had formed a huge X, stretching across the Eastern horizon from the earth to the upper levels of the atmosphere. These two billowing, bright orange, contrails intersected where the greatest treasure in the universe will return to Earth! And in that moment I could hear God whisper, ‘Tell them what this means! Share the Treasure with them!’

“Folks,” Mark said with passion, “Jesus is coming back! Whether it happens in the next ten minutes, ten hours, or ten-thousand years doesn’t matter. What does matter is that Christ died on a cross so we can spend eternity with Him. This treasure is free and available to all who accept it. Do you know Him? Have you made Him your Savior? If not, I encourage you to do so right now, this day. As you receive communion, invite Him to be the Lord of your life.”

†

Folks, salvation awaits, and just like Mark described, Jesus is coming back! Our decision to accept his offer of grace today will determine where we spend all of our tomorrows. If you think you have all the time in the world to decide you are deceiving yourself; tomorrow, for some of us, will not come.

If you’ve never done so before, I invite you to make that choice today.

Prayer

“Lord Jesus, I accept Your sacrifice as the greatest treasure of all time. Be my Savior and Lord, today. Amen.”

When Do We Take A Stand?

If someone slaps you on one cheek, turn to them the other also.

Luke 6:29

Tears filled Lindsay’s eyes as she reflected over the years of hard work, studying endless hours, even going without sleep on many occasions, striving to do her best scholastically. She’d had her heart set on entrance into the National Honor Society in her junior year of High School. Now it appeared her goal would be unattained.

Staring at the list of NHS inductees hanging loosely in her hand, she wondered aloud, “I’ve carried a 4.0 GPA through ten and a half years of school and done everything that was asked and required of me. Not to mention doing it all while lettering in three sports. How can they pass me over?”

Her parents felt pretty much as she did…it just didn’t seem right…or fair. Could someone have made a mistake? Did they somehow miss adding their daughter to the list?

“Maybe there’s been a mistake,” Dad said. “Let’s pray about it and ask God to sort it out.” The three held hands and asked God to resolve what to them felt like a slap in the face.

When they finished, Mom said, “I’ll call the school and ask Mr. Holmes about it.”

His response was one of genuine surprise. “I’m not sure why she’s not on the list. But she certainly belongs on it, and I’ll resolve that oversight right now,” he said with finality.

†

In light of today’s text, should we always turn the other cheek? Not necessarily. But knowing when to take a stand can be difficult. Because we surely don’t want to act in opposition to God’s word.

A good starting point might be to understand that not everything that happens to us is God’s will. We should always inquire of the Lord to see if turning the other cheek is what He wants us to do.

There had been an oversight in Lindsay’s case. Had she prematurely turned the other cheek she wouldn’t have found out the oversight wasn’t intentional, and she would have been excluded by reason of accidental omission.

Only by seeking God’s direction can we know how to respond to that first slap.

Prayer

“Teach me to recognize the difference between willful submission and unnecessary slaughter, Lord. And help me do so with grace and humility. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Practicing Christianity

Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice.

Philippians 4:9

This house church was a special group of people. Diverse in vocation yet closely knit through their spiritual lives, this group loved to study God’s Word. Tonight, their conversation centered on verses nine and ten of the fourth chapter of Philippians: Right thinking. Discussion was lively and enlightening.

Several shared how it had been difficult during their early relationship with Jesus to focus on the right things all the time, but how the closer they got to Him, the easier it became to stay, as Lyle put it, ‘right-minded’.

Heads nodded when Cain said, “It’s been great to watch each other grow over the years, seeing God have His way in our lives.”

Dirk added, “I believe that the things we’ve practiced are the things we’ve become proficient in.”

As if on cue, Steve chimed in with, “Doesn’t that mean we’ve been practicing Christianity?” Meant to elicit laughter, Steve’s statement also brought smiles because it made perfect sense. Christianity, indeed, was what they had been practicing.

†

These comments are simple in nature, yet profound in revelation. The best thing we can do to live the life God ordained for us is to be practicing Christians.

The adage, “Practice makes perfect” is true. And the more we practice, the closer we get to perfect. In direct correlation, when we fail to practice, we practice for failure.

Pro baseball players practice long hours to excel at their sport. Many of their workouts include repetitive-motion drills, specifically designed to build what’s called ‘muscle memory’, which requires less conscious effort to maintain. But if they slack off or stop their workout they immediately lose that muscle memory, and find themselves out of shape.

This same principle applies to our Spirituality. If we routinely practice right-thinking and right-doing, we build spiritual muscle memory. But, like the ballplayer, if we neglect our ‘workout’, we lose our competitive edge and the enemy is able to draw us back into unproductive thought patterns. The only way to ensure strong spiritual health is to diligently continue practicing Christianity.

Prayer

“Holy Spirit, please help me stay right-minded, with a heart bent toward You. Help me practice this relationship called Christianity. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Stay and Smile!

…become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there…

Ephesians 4:13, 14

The first day of The Women of Faith Conference had been a special time of learning and sharing for Lisa; it was about to become a time of personal growth.

Following the afternoon session, Lisa and some friends headed for a local restaurant.

When the food arrived Lisa began eating, listening to the discussion around the table. Without warning something snapped between her teeth! Unsure of what it was, Lisa spit it into a napkin.

Upon closer inspection she realized it was one of the veneers from a front tooth! The irony of being her dentist’s assistant was not lost on her. She was not amused. Her first impulse was to drive the two hours home and get it fixed in the morning.

But then the truth assuaged her vanity... It isn’t as if this changes who I am, she realized. So what if people see me like this. No broken-tooth grin is going to make me pull up stakes and go home! I’m going to stay and smile at everyone I meet! And stay and smile she did!

Sharing her experience with a friend the following Monday, Lisa said, “If I had gone home I would have missed the best part of the conference!”

†

How many times have we let the wind and waves of immaturity dictate our decisions only to find out later what a wonderful time we missed; God shows up and we are not there to experience it. The enemy robs us blind.

Lisa refused to let her ‘less-than-perfect smile’ alter her itinerary, and reaped the spiritual benefits.

Maturity comes through experience; experience comes from making choices. When we allow Jesus to assist in the choice-making, the enemy’s lies are silenced and we are able to persevere in spite of uncomfortable and embarrassing situations.

Unless and until we press in for the fullness of Christ we can be swayed by things that should not alter our course.

Are we willing to miss out on God’s blessings because of immaturity or vanity? Or can we find the courage to do as Lisa, and stay and smile?

Prayer

“Lord, I want Your knowledge and wisdom to be my guiding light. Help me overcome and persevere when the enemy would have me retreat and quit. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Louder Than Words

By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.

John 13:35

Carolyn was the school nurse. She was a wonderful care-giver, outgoing and personable; she also loved Jesus, and everyone at school knew it. Not because she made a spectacle of herself or her faith, but because her love and compassion spoke louder than words.

Exceptionally good with all the students, Carolyn had a soft spot for the youngest children.

One day the Principle brought an inconsolable young girl to the clinic. Sobbing, the girl explained to Carolyn that her father was leaving for Iraq in the morning and due to circumstances outside her control, she wasn’t going to be able to say ‘Goodbye’.

Sensitive to the turmoil wrenching at this little girl’s heart, Carolyn told her, “You know, Jesus can help you get through this if you ask Him.”

“Really?” the girl asked between sobs.

Placing her arm around her, Carolyn said, “All you have to do is tell Him how you feel. You can do that right now if you want,” she offered.

“I’m not sure how to pray,” came her timid response.

“Tell you what,” Carolyn said, “you just start by saying, ‘Dear Jesus’ and then just talk to him. If you need me to, I’ll be glad to help you pray.”

The little girl folded her hands, bowed her head, and prayed, “Dear Jesus…” She opened one eye and looked at Carolyn, and said, “Okay, you can pray now…”

Carolyn smiled, placed her hand over the little girl’s, and prayed for her Daddy’s protection and safe return as well as for the little girl.

Encouraged, the little girl headed back to class, assured that Jesus was going to watch over her Daddy!

†

What a privilege it is to take someone’s concerns to Jesus, but would the people who know us bring their hurting hearts to us for care? If so, would we know how to minister, as Carolyn did, to their pain?

They would, if they saw Christ's capacity for compassion and love shining through our eyes. And we wold know how to minister to their pain if we spent time with Jesus on a regular basis.

Jesus' love, compassion, and understanding rub off on us when He becomes more than a casual acquaintance. Just like knowing someone well enough that you begin to finish their sentences, when we become that acquainted with Jesus, our actions will speak louder than words.

Prayer

“Dear Jesus…. (Okay, you can pray now). Amen.”

Aim High!

“We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish,” they answered.

Matthew 14:17

Jack and Willow had given Sam an archery kit for his birthday. Sam, with the enthusiasm of a ten-year-old, squealed with delight and ran out the back door proclaiming how many deer and wild Indians he was going to kill. When Jack had offered to help set up the target, Sam had declined the assistance, assuring his father he could manage on his own. After all, he was ten now!

Jack patiently watched as Sam loosed arrow after arrow, each falling short of its intended mark.

Finally, Sam said, “I guess I could use some help, Pop,”

Wisely, Jack asked, “What are you aiming at, Chief?”

Sam cocked his head as he pondered the question, “I guess I was just pulling the string back and shooting toward the target.”

Instructing Sam in how to ‘line-sight’ the arrow shaft, Jack taught Sam the basics of shooting instinctively, always aiming higher than where he intended to the arrow to hit.

Within ten minutes Sam was not only hitting the target from a distance of fifteen yards, he actually hit the bull’s-eye a few times!

†

Too many of us aim at nothing and hit it every time. In today’s text, the Disciple’s estimation of achieving the goal was based in the possible; what they could do. They had not considered the power of God to achieve the impossible. And because of that they missed the mark.

We are much like Sam and the Disciples. We don’t aim high enough and, as a result, fall short of the intended target most of the time.

Believe it or not, some of us are afraid we just might hit what we’re aiming at and wouldn’t know what to do with the success. Others are comfortable right where they are and want no part of extending themselves…and receive the full measure of their efforts.

Next you take aim, aim high. Even if you don’t hit the bull’s-eye you’ll still be closer to the mark than when aiming at nothing.

Prayer

“God of the impossible, show me how to aim for things beyond my ability. Teach me to stretch my faith as a bow’s string is stretched in preparation for the shot. Help me hit the mark You give me to shoot at today. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

One Way or the Other…

If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.

Romans 14:8

As Will waited for the surgeon to come speak with him prior to surgery, he was surprised to discover he was scared; surprised because he had been through no less than ten prior surgeries requiring general anesthesia, and couldn’t remember ever having been concerned about the possibility of not waking up after the procedure. So why now? Then it hit him…he could die today…!

He quickly asked God to quell the fear and replace it with His peace…to no avail. If anything, the fear increased until Will began questioning whether he should go ahead with the operation. Lord, he prayed, I know this fear isn’t from You, and that it’s irrational. Nonetheless, it’s real to me, and I’m not winning this battle. That last sentence had barely left Will’s heart when God spoke, “It’s not your battle to win, son. Your life is in my hands. And one way or the other,” and Will was sure there was a lilt in God’s voice, “you will wake up…”

As God let that last statement hang, Will understood. No matter what happened in the operating room, his life was in God’s capable hands. Peace flooded his soul, If I’ve finished my race, and if today is that day, Lord, I’m ready!

Will didn’t die that day. But he no longer worries about when that day will come.

†

Life is terminal. And short of Jesus’ return, not one of us will escape the clutches of death. Coming to grips with that can cause a sense of foreboding, or motivate us to live with a purpose. It is God’s desire that we move past the fear of death to a place of faith so that until death comes, we trust Him to keep us secure while we fulfill that purpose.

Paul says that if we love and follow Jesus we belong to Him. When death comes it will be glorious indeed. But until we find ourselves face to face with Jesus we are to LIVE for Him here.

Prayer

“May You find in me a desire to live up to my full potential, LORD. Help me remain focused on the here and now. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Captain and Anchor of Hope

We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.

Hebrews 6:19

The storm blew up without warning, and the two ships began to be tossed about. The helmsman of the sailing vessel, Omega, ordered the deckhands to drop the mainsail and lash everything down. The navigator quickly searched his charts for a cove or inlet along the coast that might offer shelter. Finding a small cove not far away, he advised the Captain. “Take her in and drop anchor,” the Captain ordered the helmsman. “We’ll ride out the storm there.”

With the boat securely anchored on the leeward side of the cove, they were able to drift without being battered against the shoreline or be carried back out to sea. Confident that his crew and boat were safe, the Captain told his men to get some sleep, and did the same. They would resume travel in the morning when the storm was past.

The captain of the Damnatus made a move he would not live to regret. Not having knowledge of the coast along this stretch of land, he ordered his crew, “Run parallel to the shore, men! Keep us two miles out. We’ll sail south for awhile and see if the storm passes.”

Unknown to the Captain, there was a rocky shoal not far away. A mere two miles south of where the Omega was anchored, the Damnatus struck the outcropping of rock and sank in less than five minutes. Only one crewman survived. He told of how the captain had realized his error in judgment too late. His last words were, “I am sorry, men! Abandon ship! Swim for shore, and may God have mercy on our souls!”

†

Knowing something about sailing before joining a crew is wise. But even more crucial is having a Captain Who intimately knows the waters you’ll be navigating, and knows when to direct you to drop anchor in safe harbor.

With Jesus as our Captain and Anchor of Hope we can navigate any spiritual waters, avoiding the pitfalls that lie just beneath the surface.

To navigate our own course will see us tossed upon the waves of life, possibly even shipwrecked, our soul lost at sea.

Prayer

“Lord Jesus, Captain of my life, steer me through the treacherous waters that threaten my life. Be my Anchor of Hope. Amen.”

Owned by a Carpenter

Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with dissipation, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you unexpectedly like a trap.

Luke 21:34

In the movie ‘The Last Crusade’, Indiana Jones is commissioned by the antiques dealer, Donovan, to find the ‘Holy Grail’, the cup Jesus supposedly used during the Last Supper. Unknown to Indi, Donovan is actually a Nazi sympathizer, sent to find the chalice as a national treasure. But Donovan wants it for himself, believing it to have the power of everlasting life. Indi is eventually coerced into accepting the challenge due to his father’s capture at the hands of the Nazis.

Fraught with danger and intrigue, Indi leads them through the booby trapped temple to the cup. Once there, they find a table full of chalices, guarded by an old knight. The knight warns Donovan’s assistant, Elsa, to “choose wisely” as only one of the cups will provide everlasting life; the others will bring death. She chooses a magnificent golden chalice and hands it to Donovan. He dips the cup in the basin, drinks…and dies. The night glibly says, “He chose poorly.”

Indi, desperate to save his gravely wounded father, surveys the remaining chalices and chooses a simple cup; “A carpenter’s cup” he says. He dips the cup, drinks…and lives! The knight remarks, “You chose wisely.” Indi runs to his father, tips the cup to his lips, then pours water from it over his father’s wound. The elder Jones is instantly healed! The movie ends with them barely escaping with their lives.

†

Making impulsive choices can have grave consequences. Donovan assumed the visually stimulating chalice possessed eternal life. He drank and died, led astray by opulence.

Beauty and seduction have a way of enticing us and dulling our reasoning by introducing an air of carelessness. If we submit to the desire under these circumstances, we will choose poorly.

Jesus, in today’s text, warns us to be on our guard against the things of this world. The best way to do that is to think like Indi; look for what would be owned by a Carpenter. If He wouldn’t own it, leave it alone.

Prayer

“Help me see things for what they are, Lord Jesus, and to use the Holy Spirit’s strength to make the right choices. Amen.”

Hitching a Ride

Rescue me from my enemies, O LORD…may your good Spirit lead me on level ground.

Psalm 143:9, 10

Being a bike messenger in New York City isn’t for the feint of heart. Still, even the best of the best grow weary sometimes. Wendy had had a long day and still had three deliveries to make. She’d covered almost forty miles in stop-and-go traffic and her legs were tired; even now, on level ground, she felt like she was peddling uphill.

The weariness in her legs demanded relief. Seeing an opportunity, she decided to employ a technique that was frowned upon, yet tolerated among most cabbies. Pacing herself, she latched hold of a cab’s rear door handle and stopped peddling. She saw the cabbie’s grin in the side-view mirror, letting her know he was okay with her ‘hitching’ a ride.

Ten minutes and sixteen blocks later she released her grip, rapped on the trunk as her way of saying “thanks”, and turned off down the street her next delivery was on. The break had been just enough to rest her legs so she could arrive at her remaining stops on time.

†

Humans are blessed with an indomitable spirit, and perseverance is something we take pride in. Even so, there are days when we feel like life is a battle and everyone and everything is conspiring against us; we are leg-weary and peddling uphill…we can’t go on under our own power.

In today’s Psalm, David was in such a situation. His life was in jeopardy and wisely he was asking for God’s protection through the Holy Spirit’s intervention. In essence, he was ‘hitching’ a ride, trusting in the Spirit’s wisdom and power instead of his own.

Our drive to meet deadlines and accomplish goals is God-given and meant to be tempered, tempered because we need to learn to tap into the power of God instead of launching off under our own.

Any task or activity begun in our own power will end when we run out of strength. It is only the wise who know Who true power comes from, and do not hesitate to ask God if they can ‘hitch’ a ride. The really wise ones ask before they begin their assignment.

Prayer

“Almighty God, may Your Spirit guide and strengthen me as I go about my day. Amen.”

Serendipitous?

Cornelius, a centurion…gave generously to those in need…

Acts 10:1, 2

Jake couldn’t remember ever experiencing such a time of favor. Sure, he’d had good things happen before; but this was way beyond the norm!

A couple months ago he’d been called to his supervisor’s office and given an unexpected promotion…which had come with a sizable raise in income and benefits! He’d been told his work had caught the attention of the home office.

Then he’d received a check in the mail from his late aunt’s estate…he’d never even known she had an estate…or that he was in her will!

His daughter had received the coveted ‘Dean’s Scholarship’ at the university she had applied to! Then, to top it off, an investment he’d made more than seven years before had multiplied handsomely; what a windfall!

One of his friends had pronounced him ‘serendipitous’. He’d looked it up the dictionary: [ser-uhn-dip-i-tuhs] adj.: ‘fortuitous; having the faculty of making fortunate discoveries by accident.’ Jake knew otherwise. He didn’t place any hope or confidence in ‘accidental occurrence’ or ‘coincidence’. He was fully aware that it had been God who had brought these blessings into his life. He just didn’t know how God intended to use him and his new-found financial blessing yet.

†

How often have we heard someone say, “I can’t believe my luck!” laying claim to ‘good fortune’ ‘coincidence’ ‘serendipity’ and the myriad other false sources of blessing? And in giving credence to these ‘random acts of chance’, we rob the One Who brought the blessing, and miss the reason we’ve received it in the first place.

God entrusts to us, like He did Cornelius, great gifts. His hope is that we will allow the blessing to flow through us into the lives of those around us. He gives, not asking anything in return, hoping only that we will recognize our purpose for His favor. Frequently, the gift is not financial in nature.

The next time you experience ‘Serendipity’ take a moment to thank God for blessing you. Then you might want to ask Him what He’d like you to do with this gift you find yourself in possession of. Because the truth is, God blesses us so that we might be a blessing to others.

Prayer

“Thank You for giving to me, Father God. May I always look to pass along Your grace and love. Amen.”

Early

I love those who love me, and those who seek me early and diligently shall find me.

Proverbs 8:17 Amplified

“I don’t think it really matters,” Ariella said. “God just wants you just spend time with Him.”

“I don’t totally disagree, Ari.” David said. “He wants us to spend time with Him. It’s the time doesn’t matter part I disagree with, and I’ll tell you why,” he said, leafing through his Comparative Study Bible.

While he was doing that, Ariella asked, “Why is timing so important,” wondering if David could produce proof for his conviction that the first part of the day was when God most wanted to talk with her.

David found the verse he’d been looking for, “Okay. Here’s part of where I base my reasoning,” he said, and began reading from the eighth chapter of Proverbs, verse seventeen, of the Amplified translation, “‘I love those who love me, and those who seek me early and diligently shall find me,’” he finished, placing emphasis on the second part of the verse. “I believe Solomon is clearly saying the first part of our day is the best time to spend with God.”

“Maybe,” Ariella said, not totally convinced. “I still say it’s a personal preference kinda thing.”

“I’m not judging, Ari,” David said. “I’m just answering your question. Remember, you did ask…”

†

In today’s text God clearly says that it’s best to seek Him early, in the first part of our day. And if we’re serious about getting to know and learning how to interact with Him, then seeking Him early, before our thoughts become cluttered with worldly things, is simply the best way to achieve our goal.

However, God will not hold it against us if we chose not to meet with Him until our heads hit the pillow at night; nor will He be angry if we spend little to no time with Him at all. You see, this verse is not about God’s judgment for not seeking Him early and often… No, it’s more of an indicator of what we expect out of the relationship by what we put in.

Prayer

“I want to find the deepest parts of You, Lord. So I commit to giving You the first part of my day. Show me that this really makes a difference. Amen.”

Reckless Abandon

Then Peter got down out of the boat,

Matthew 14:29

Bryce and Jennifer shared a difference of opinion. Jennifer felt Bryce’s thrill-seeking displayed a form of recklessness. Bryce felt Jennifer needed to learn to experience life once in awhile! “Honey, I don’t fault you for not wanting to skydive or rock climb, but hiking and camping in the back country are pretty docile.” He took her by the shoulders, “I promise to protect you at all times!” Raising his right hand, first three fingers erect, and holding his pinkie down by the thumb, Bryce said, “Scout’s honor!”

“You know how much I hate bugs!” she objected, as an involuntary shiver ran through her body.

Bryce drew her close, “I promise to squash every bug that attacks you!”

“What if I want to come home?” she challenged.

Softly, and with a twinkle in his eyes he answered, “Then home we’ll come.”

Two days later, as the sun settled over the western peaks of the Appalachian Mountains, Jennifer was resting on Bryce’s shoulder, enjoying herself more than she would ever have imagined, “Thanks for not giving up on me,” She confided. “Conquering my fears isn’t something I’m real big on.”

Pulling her closer, Bryce decided his response wasn’t necessary.

†

Conquering our fears isn’t at the top of most of our to-do lists either. Yet, when we look at today’s verse, most of us focus on Peter’s failure. Jesus didn’t. Instead, He simply asked him why he had suddenly doubted.

You see, He understood what it took for Peter to get out of the boat. The law of physics, as far as water-walking is concerned, are known to even the most novice fisherman. Yet with reckless abandon, Peter stepped onto supernatural ground.

Jesus calls with a purpose. He wants to set us free in the knowledge He will squash every bug, cast out every fear, and remove every doubt if we will recklessly abandon our lives to Him. What is it in your life, that when Jesus beckons, you fear to heed His call?

Faith isn’t faith until it’s hanging on to Someone other than itself.

“Prayer”

“I don’t know if I can do this, Lord. Give me the courage to abandon everything to You and take my hand as I take this leap of faith. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

Unanswered

I will not listen when they call to me in the time of their distress.

Jeremiah 11:14

“I’m sorry, Gail, I just can’t help you out right now. I’m in the middle of something that can’t be postponed,” Garret said and hung up the phone.

He’d just refused to listen to a request for assistance knowing full well the Holy Spirit was asking him to help meet this need. True, he was busy, but now he was so overcome with the weight of his decision that he couldn’t focus on the project he was working on. He might as well have answered the call and avoided the pain of knowing he had failed to be used for God’s purpose because of what he perceived to be an inconvenience.

Garrett felt convicted, and distanced from God. He knew he’d placed his personal comfort ahead of God’s request. He asked forgiveness, knowing he was covered under the blood of Christ, but right now he didn’t feel so good about himself.

Calling Gail back, Garrett asked, “Has the need you called about been met, Gail?”

“Yes, it has. Bruce was able to drive the man to his doctor’s appointment. But thanks for calling back,” she said sweetly, and hung up. Her gracious attitude made his poor choice even more painful.

†

What Garrett had done wasn’t a heinous crime, but he knew he had made the wrong choice. And it had affected his relationship with God immediately.

And so it is when we know we’ve refused the Lord. Personal comfort can cause us to miss divine appointments. We’ve all known the heaviness of letting an opportunity slip away because we were just too busy, or the timing wasn’t right; we know we missed it by refusing to participate in something orchestrated by God on behalf of someone in need.

Many times throughout our lives we have been on the receiving end of God’s intervention, yet fail to remember those times when our call comes.

Before we miss yet another opportunity, remember that God wants to bless us, and others, through our obedience.

What if, in our distress, our call went unanswered because God refused to listen?

Prayer

“Lord, give me a heart that yields completely to You. Help me put to death the self that hinders our relationship. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

The Ferret Cage

‘your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”

Isaiah 30:21

The animal appeared out of nowhere, “Carl! What is that?!” Peggy asked alarmed.

Looking out the window he responded, “Well, it’s either an albino mink or someone’s pet ferret.” Heading outside Carl coaxed the animal over.

Peggy was more than a little apprehensive, “What if he bites you?!”

Her fears were quickly put to rest when the little animal scurried straight to Carl and allowed itself to be picked up. “Someone lose you little fella?” he asked.

Having no success in finding the owner they called Sherrie, a friend who had once owned ferrets, asking if she might know of a home for the animal. “I have a friend who runs an animal rescue shelter. I’m sure she’ll take it,” she responded confidently.

The next day Sherrie and her friend, Marla, arrived to pick up the ferret. With tears in her eyes, Marla shared that her daughter, Cara, had argued with her just last week about getting rid of their old ferret cage, “She said I should get rid of the cage, saying, ‘After all, we’re never going to get another ferret!’ I told her that I felt like God had told me to hang onto it. And when I told her that I wanted to be obedient to God, she snipped at me, ‘Well, if you ask me you oughta get rid of it!’ Now I know why God said wait!”

Marla went on to explain that there was a spiritual battle raging within Cara, and she recognized how personal God was making this by using this little animal to speak to Cara at such a pivotal time!

After a tearful goodbye, they climbed into the van and headed home.

†

We have a personal God; One Who wants to guide us through everything we encounter. He wants us to be so closely related to Him that we wouldn’t question His motives and that we would trust Him enough to ask for His opinion on each decision we make; especially the ones about ferret cages!

Obedience is ours to offer or withhold. That’s free will. But if we listen, and respond to the Voice Isaiah testifies to, we will find incomparable guidance.

Prayer

“I’m listening, Lord. Please speak.”

How Hard Could It Be?

It is not good to have zeal without knowledge…

Proverbs 19:2

Mike’s landlord had promised to install his window air conditioner two weeks ago, yet here he was sweating in his stuffy little apartment; no fan, not even a breeze coming through the window. Figuring the landlord had forgotten about him, Mike dialed his number once more. Getting the landlord’s voicemail he left another message asking him to please install the unit.

Two days later, with no response from the landlord, and the mercury bumping triple digits, Mike had an inspiration; I could help him out and do it myself. After all, how hard could it be?

Mike headed for the storage room to find the unit assigned to his apartment. Finding the corresponding air conditioner Mike carried it to the elevator and headed back upstairs. Once back in his apartment, he raised the window high enough to accommodate installation, and hoisted the heavy unit into place. He held onto the unit while pulling down the sash. Unexpectedly, the sash dropped like a rock, and Mike lost his grip. The window slammed into his fingers resulting in a natural reaction; Mike jerked his hand away from the cause of his pain!

With a startled yelp Mike watched in shock and disbelief as the air conditioner tumbled from its perch, falling three stories to the uninhabited sidewalk below.

With new-found understanding Mike realized, I guess it was harder than I thought!

†

We should know our limitations. Because acting impulsively can create more problems than we started with.

Mike discovered that it isn’t enough to have the desire to do something. Having at least some working knowledge of what we are attempting to do is essential.

Mike’s landlord knew about the sticky window sash. He also knew where to hold the air conditioner so if he lost control of the window it wouldn’t smash his fingers! Mike’s zeal created additional work and added unnecessary expense to his already unpleasant situation.

If we have to ask how hard could it be? maybe the wise thing to do would be to ask for help; before we find out it was harder than we thought.

Prayer

“Teach me to not be foolish, Lord, and to know when to leave things to those with more experience. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

Building Our Faith

Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them…

1Samuel 17:36

Larry had been chasing God since the early 1980s. Because of his hunger, God had begun teaching Larry early and often in regard to spiritual matters. So it had come as no surprise when God began building Larry’s financial faith.

One service, during the offering, the Holy Spirit had impressed on Larry to give all the money in his wallet, which on that night happened to be $50 dollars. He remembered secretly wishing it had been less. But the Holy Spirit had instructed, “Give everything you have. Note the amount and date in your bible. Beside the entry write the word, PROVE.”

Larry, believing God was about to reveal something of great value, intended to find out what that something was. So, in the margin of his Bible he’d written, June 8, 1984, Gave fifty dollars in the offering tonight under the direction of the Holy Spirit. He said to write the word PROVE. Not sure what it all means.

It had been six years since that faith-building lesson. Larry smiled as he reread the entry below that one of June 8^th. One month to the day later, he’d written, July 8, 1984, received $5000.00 cash unexpectedly! God said, “Obedience is better than sacrifice.”

†

God wants to build our faith. He does that one experience at a time, laminating our faith and giving us a foundation on which to stand in the future. Like David, our faith is bolstered with each encounter. Over time we hesitate less when God beckons us.

Faith encounters range from trusting God with our finances to courage in the face of great odds; from standing for Christ when it’s less than popular to believing God for the healing of a terminally-ill cancer patient. Each event enhances our relationship with God through obedience.

David had slain a lion and a bear, God had built his faith to such a degree that a really big Philistine was no big thing.

The faith building is God’s part, ours is being faithful, available, teachable and obedient.

Prayer

“I want to have a faith that will stand in times of trial, Lord. Teach me to trust as You lead me into new areas of understanding. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Conspicuous Provision

He does as he pleases with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth. 

Daniel 4:35

“Your change, Sir!” the cashier called.

Three cents? Not really worth going back for, Bill thought as he turned, saying, “You can put the three cents in the penny jar.”

“What about the other eighty dollars?!” she asked, bewildered.

“What?! I gave you a Twenty,” Bill responded, recalling the three Twenties he’d placed in his pocket that morning.

“No, Sir,” she said. “You paid me with this Hundred-dollar bill. See,” she adamantly replied, pulling the bill from the drawer to show him. He watched in silent amazement as she replaced the Hundred and counted out eighty dollars change.

Placing the money in his pocket he headed for his other two stops, wondering what had happened. He was positive he’d given her a Twenty, yet couldn’t explain the Hundred she’d produced. He thought of the “loaves and fishes” in Matthew 14, but quickly dismissed it, thinking, Why would God change a Twenty into a Hundred?

His subsequent stops provided the answer. Each of the two purchases was exactly forty dollars! Using the change from the Hundred to pay for them, Bill realized this was a lesson on God’s provision…and the supernatural extremes to which He will go to meet our needs!

†

Change a Twenty into a Hundred? Impossible! Right?!

That depends on how limited or unlimited your perception of God’s power is.

Today’s scenario is the account of one of my closest friends. I believe every word. Why? For two reasons. First…Bill is a godly man of great moral character and integrity; he does not lie. Second and more important…God is capable of doing what Bill claims.

Yet, even with scriptures that exhibit the limitless scope of God’s power and creativity, there is a greater propensity for us to doubt the validity of such claims than there is to believe.

When we were children we had no trouble believing what we were told. Sadly, our grown-up reasoning tells us that these kinds of things don’t really happen.

It is paramount, where the things of God are concerned, that we return to the childlike reasoning of; God said it…I believe Him…case closed.

Prayer

“Creator God, I want a simple, childlike faith, that believes in Your complete and omnipotent power. Help me believe. Amen.”

Even Now

You are the God who performs miracles;

Psalm 77:14

In the weeks since surgery had repaired his three congenital heart defects, two-month-old Nathan had failed to thrive, and was kept alive only by the machines his tiny body was connected to. Last night, the doctors had said, “We suggest you cut a lock of Nathan’s hair and take some pictures. We are going to remove him from life-support in the morning without orders to resuscitate.”

Yet, today’s cold gray dawn, and the doctor’s fatal proclamation could not dampen Ruben and Melinda’s faith, for God had spoken His truth into this critical situation as they’d knelt to pray in the hospital’s chapel last night. Emotionally and spiritually spent, Melinda had simply uttered, “Please, God…” And God had whispered, “Even now I perform miracles.”

Melinda had run to the Neonatal ICU to see what God had done. In truth, there had been no blinding light or instant healing. In its place was minor improvement.

“Don’t you think he looks better?” Melinda had asked the night nurse.

“Possibly,” had been the noncommittal response.

But Nathan’s ‘disconnect’ was postponed as the doctors concurred; “There are signs of improvement. Let’s see what happens over the next two days.” One month later, the Clarks, equipped with seven different medications, took Nathan home!

It’s been sixteen years since that day, and Nathan’s Gortex™ patches and reconstructive procedures have stood the test of time…and God’s promise, “Even now I perform miracles!”

†

Death is preordained (Hebrews 9:27), our time here is known only by our Creator (Psalm 139:16). When it hits close to home we are faced with our own mortality, and when it seeks someone we love we, like the Clarks, petition for a miracle, asking God to delay the inevitable. At that time, God will provide the miracle we ask for, or comfort us in its absence. Only God, in His infinite wisdom, knows which is best.

Regardless of the impending outcome, in each case, we should pray, asking for the supernatural believing that the God Who created us even now performs miracles.

Prayer

“LORD, grow in me a faith that believes in miracles, and trusts You even in death. In Jesus’ Name, amen”

Hearing Aids and Tie Clips

A cheerful heart is good medicine

Proverbs 17:22

As T.J. got into the passenger’s seat he lost his grip on the hearing aid he’d been putting in. Grabbing at it he caught the hearing aid but the battery fell out. Figuring it had fallen between the seats he felt for it. Unable to find it he said, “I’ll look for it when we get where we’re goin’, Irene,” and dropped the hearing aid into his shirt pocket.

“Okay,” Irene said, and drove to the graduation party they were to attend.

Arriving, T.J. got out of the car and searched for the battery. Not finding it he noticed that his tie was swinging around. Standing erect he found that now his tie clip was missing! “Now where in the world did it go!” he wondered aloud.

Irene chuckled, saying, “Well, we’ll just have to find them latter. Come on, the party has already started.”

Following an enjoyable time of celebration they took their leave; said their goodbyes, and climbed into the car.

Readying himself, T.J. reached into his shirt pocket to get his hearing aid and realized there was more there than just the hearing aid. Chuckling, he pulled out the battery! “Guess it dropped into my pocket!” he quipped. After installing the battery, and placing the hearing aid in his ear, T.J. reached for the seat belt. As he pulled it into place, there, on the belt, was his tie clip. It had been plucked from his tie when he’d gotten out of the car! Their ensuing laughter was so raucous that the family came to see what was going on. Hardly able to speak through the laughter, Irene related the events of their search. Her rendition of the story brought tears of laughter to everyone.

†

When we are able to laugh at ourselves we are more likely to find joy and a light-hearted attitude. Solomon equates laughter with good health.

It’s easy to become downcast and let our mood be regulated by negative events. But if we look for the lighter side of things we just might find a more enjoyable perspective that leads to laughter instead of grumbling.

Prayer

“Lord, help me to not take things too seriously. Teach me to look for joy instead of misery. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

Transitional Forgiveness

Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. But if you do not forgive…your Father will not forgive your sins.

Matthew 6:12, 15

Julie’s husband, Tim, had been attacked by two strangers for his wallet. Now he lay in a hospital bed, recuperating, while the two men remained on the loose. “How can God allow the guilty to go free while an innocent man suffers?” she cried.

“I’m not making light of what’s happened, Julie,” her friend, Laura said, “but he did the very same thing for you and me when He sent Jesus, an innocent man, to die for us, the guilty, to set us free from our sin.”

“It’s not the same!” Julie argued.

“Isn’t it?” Laura asked. “God asks us to forgive those who harm us, allowing Him to judge them. Jesus forgave. Hopefully they will turn from the life they now live, and accept Jesus’ sacrifice.”

“I don’t care if they never find forgiveness!” Julie spat, looking at her bruised and battered husband.

“But God does.” Laura said softly. “What if they never get caught, Julie? Do you want to hang on to this bitterness forever? It will turn your heart cold. You need to forgive…otherwise God’s peace can’t drive out the anger and growing bitterness.”

†

Forgiveness is at the heart of the Christian message: God, through Jesus, has forgiven us. Therefore, we are to forgive others. Yet, when we are wronged, our hearts scream for vengeance. God says that’s His domain (Hebrews 10:30). We are to leave the outcome in His capable hands; otherwise, our hearts will remain in constant turmoil.

How do we transition from Julie’s heart of judgment to Jesus’ heart of forgiveness? By beginning the process and asking God to birth in us a willingness to forgive.

Forgiveness isn’t always a noticeable and dramatic outward or inward event. Sometimes it’s begun in increments so subtle we don’t see the change taking place. But eventually we find the anger and offense is gone. In the transition we move from a heart of judgment to one of peace. God is asking us to move in the right direction.

Prayer

“LORD, sometimes my heart’s desire is to not forgive. Help me remember what You did for me on Calvary, and no matter the wrong, create in me a heart willing to forgive. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Meeting Our Need

God…comforts us…so that we can comfort those…with the comfort we ourselves have received.

2 Corinthians 1:3, 4

Throughout the divorce and custody hearings, David hung on to God. In the end, he’d been ordered to give his ex-wife the home they had shared for eight years, but had been granted custody of the girls. Legal fees had depleted his resources. He’d even had to sell items the court had granted him to cover the bills.

Needing a new place to live, David prayed, “Lord, you’ve led me to this point…but I don’t even know where to begin looking for a place to live.” In the ensuing silence, David felt God urge him to get in the car and start driving.

So, David drove, taking each turn as he felt God nudge him. With each turn he wondered where God was leading. Turning onto Harrison Circle, he spotted a yard-sign advertising ‘House for Rent’. He pulled in the drive as a man came out the front door.

David said a silent prayer as he got out of the car and engaged the man in conversation, “Good morning,” he began. “My kids and I are looking for a home.” As the conversation progressed, David related his story of fighting for custody of his children, finishing with, “But the cost of the battle has depleted my resources.”

The man smiled a knowing smile, and said, “I’ve been where you are, David. I went through a rough divorce and custody battle several years ago. My boys and I just finished fixing up this house last night. Go take a look. If it suits your needs, we’ll work something out.”

†

In a world that sees too much brokenness, God wants to heal our heartache. And He will get very personal about it if we allow Him.

Today’s story is true, God led David to a man who understood his plight and was willing to help supply David's need.

God will supply our need as well. We must however, like David, be willing to submit to God's leading, and then follow His urging.

Prayer

“Lord, lead me to a place of healing today. Lead me to someone who knows how I feel. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Focus!

No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him.

1Corinthians 2:9

“I can put it in the upper ninety (top corners of the goal) any time I want,” Carson said, in response to his soccer coach’s, “Show me whatchya got!”

“Blah, blah, blah! You’re puttin’ me to sleep! Don’t tell me…do it!” Coach K hollered.

Bam! Top right corner of the goal.

“But can you do it again?”

Bam! Bam! Two more to follow the first!

Coach said, “Do it again I’ll buy you a milkshake.”

Bam! Perfect!

Coach decided to see if he could get inside the kid’s head, “I knooow you can’t do it again,” he goaded, with more than a little insolence, “You haven’t got five in-a-row in you!”

Carson set the ball, lined up the kick, and let it fly…right over top of the crossbar. “Crap…I knew I was gonna miss it!” he conceded.

“That’s why you missed,” Coach K said. “You lost focus. I watched your eyes drop to the ball in preparation for the kick, but you closed them just before contact.” He let that sink in. “It’s not enough to know how and where to kick the ball, Carson. You took your eyes off the mark by letting me distract and intimidate you. You have to learn to play through the distractions. You have to remain focused on the end-result until that end is achieved…every time!”

†

We can put in long hours of practice and look great in our uniform. Then the whistle blows, and Bam! we lose confidence and make stupid mistakes. But by allowing God to use our adversity to teach us, these experiences can tune us up for victory.

We should look to gain experience and strength when subjected to distractions through adversity, gleaning battle-wise confidence by focusing on God and what He can do, asking for spiritual wisdom and strength.

We will all face adversity on our way to the promise in today's text.

But, if we do as Coach K suggests: remain focused on the end-result until the goal is achieved, we will be able to focus on God through the adversity as we face each new day.

Prayer

“Lord Jesus, adversity and life’s trials try to distract me from Your promise, help me remain focused on You and You alone. Amen.”

Just be a Thistle

But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves.

Luke 21:14

As I walked, meditating on how God uses us to spread the Gospel, I was prompted to ask Him how He intended to use me. As I meditated I became concerned about what my service to the Lord would look like. Since with me concern sometimes preempts worry, God took that moment to intervene, “Look at that thistle.”

Thistles intrigue me; spiny, perfectly rounded cones with that beautiful bloom, surrounded by sweeping tendrils that look so fragile. So when God said, “Look” I did so with fascination, asking, “Okay. What?”

“Where have you found these?” He asked.

“Pretty much from the East to the West,” I responded.

His next question was two-part, “How did they get there, and did they have anything to do with it?”

I realized He was painting me into a corner, “The wind and the birds scatter the seeds, Lord. And no, the thistle has no control over it.” Then before He could ask, I added, “And no, it doesn’t worry about how it will propagate.”

“So why is it we keep having this discussion?” He gently admonished.

“Because I’m slow to trust that You’ll do what’s best,” I answered, knowing He wasn’t quite done.

“Everything without self-will serves its created purpose. A life of self-will, yielded wholly to Me, can do the same.” Then He added, “There’s a lot less stress involved.”

What could I say? Kneeling on the spot, I committed to simplicity, “I pledge right now, LORD, to just be a thistle, leaving the seeds I bear in Your hands for the scattering.”

†

We should care about the witness we share with the world…we should not be concerned in the how or where of that witness.

Jesus, in today's text, instructed the Disciples to make up their minds ahead of time to not worry about what they’d say when tested, allowing the Holy Spirit to speak through them. Having heeded Jesus' instruction, the Disciple's words carried power and truth.

This directive applies to our witness as well. A life wholly yielded to God, daily giving Him our cares and concerns, empowers us with confidence through His Holy Spirit. And then, just like the thistle, God can direct us to the people and places we are meant to witness to.

Prayer

“I’ve made up my mind, LORD. I’m Your thistle. Lead on. Amen.”