Psalm 73:25-26 / New International Version - "Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever"
When considering a home remodeling project, it is important to determine where the support beams are. If we just knock a wall down here and there to create more space, it could have a detrimental effect on the rest of the structure. In fact, it could even lead to irreplaceable damage.
Whether a building topples because of faulty construction, a bad foundation or extraordinary loads, you can bet the support beams were compromised.
Support beams can be like those people in our lives that we look up to. People we love. People we respect. People we depend on. Sometimes they fall - and we might not realize we were leaning on them until they do. When they go down, it can be hard to recover. They might leave a wake of destruction in their collapse.
The only support beam you can lean on and guarantee it will never shake, bend or crumble under pressure is God. When the world around you seems to have collapsed, and you find yourself floundering around looking for something firm to take hold of, grab God's hand. He is steady and sure and his love is safe.
What support beams have you experienced tumbling down around you? Do you know how much the Lord desires to hold you up while everything else crumbles? Ask him to be your support beam today. He is more than enough for your every need.
Saturday, May 21, 2016
Friday, May 20, 2016
He Gives Me Wisdom
Proverbs 2:2-3 / New Century Version - "Listen carefully to wisdom; set your mind on understanding. Cry out for wisdom, and beg for understanding"
Grief has a funny way of messing with our heads. It can cause a fog to roll in and settle over our minds. Small decisions feel like monstrous ones, or maybe it's the opposite: big decisions are made hastily because, quite frankly, we don't have the energy to think everything through. So how do we get the wisdom we need for the task set before us? We ask God for it.
King Solomon was put in charge of a nation. He knew it was an impossible task to complete without wisdom. He wasn't born the wisest man who ever lived; he acquired his wisdom by asking God to give it to him. James 1:5 says that if we lack wisdom, we should also ask God for it. We can be confident that if God tells us to ask for something, he wants to grant that request. If God can give Solomon wisdom to run a kingdom, he can certainly give us wisdom to make decisions about big and small things in our lives.
Sometimes God provides us with sound advice through family members, friends or counselors. This can be especially important to seek out w hen we don't feel like we can see through the fog. Other advisors help us gain the perspective we might be lacking. They can assist us in making an informed decision instead of a hasty one.
What do you need wisdom for right now? Don't hesitate to ask God for understanding. He wants to give it to you if you are willing to listen.
Grief has a funny way of messing with our heads. It can cause a fog to roll in and settle over our minds. Small decisions feel like monstrous ones, or maybe it's the opposite: big decisions are made hastily because, quite frankly, we don't have the energy to think everything through. So how do we get the wisdom we need for the task set before us? We ask God for it.
King Solomon was put in charge of a nation. He knew it was an impossible task to complete without wisdom. He wasn't born the wisest man who ever lived; he acquired his wisdom by asking God to give it to him. James 1:5 says that if we lack wisdom, we should also ask God for it. We can be confident that if God tells us to ask for something, he wants to grant that request. If God can give Solomon wisdom to run a kingdom, he can certainly give us wisdom to make decisions about big and small things in our lives.
Sometimes God provides us with sound advice through family members, friends or counselors. This can be especially important to seek out w hen we don't feel like we can see through the fog. Other advisors help us gain the perspective we might be lacking. They can assist us in making an informed decision instead of a hasty one.
What do you need wisdom for right now? Don't hesitate to ask God for understanding. He wants to give it to you if you are willing to listen.
Thursday, May 19, 2016
He Is Always There For Me
Psalm 18:30-31 / New Living Translation - "God's way is perfect. All the LORD's promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look to him for protection. For who is God except the LORD? Who but our God is a solid rock?"
From famous lyrics to close friends, there is a promise that is often made and rarely kept. I'm here for you; you can always count on me. Most of us have promised or been promised this sometime in our life, and most, if not all, have felt that sting of rejection or disappointment when things didn't quite turn out that way.
We say "nobody's perfect," but somehow we expect that everyone should be. In the midst of our trying circumstances, we call out to the people who promised to always be there, but they don't answer. They don't even call us back. Loved ones will hurt us because they are human. Even the best friend, the closest sister, the doting parent will fail in their ability to be there for you. There is no escaping it.
But there is someone who you can always count on. You can tell him everything. He listens. He hears you. He'll wrap his arms around you and tell you everything will be all right. God is perfect - the perfect Father, the perfect friend. He is completely trustworthy.
Have you been disappointed or hurt by someone you love? How can you extend grace to them today? Trust in the one who is dependable. God is willing and able to be your solid rock. He is the one you can always turn to.
From famous lyrics to close friends, there is a promise that is often made and rarely kept. I'm here for you; you can always count on me. Most of us have promised or been promised this sometime in our life, and most, if not all, have felt that sting of rejection or disappointment when things didn't quite turn out that way.
We say "nobody's perfect," but somehow we expect that everyone should be. In the midst of our trying circumstances, we call out to the people who promised to always be there, but they don't answer. They don't even call us back. Loved ones will hurt us because they are human. Even the best friend, the closest sister, the doting parent will fail in their ability to be there for you. There is no escaping it.
But there is someone who you can always count on. You can tell him everything. He listens. He hears you. He'll wrap his arms around you and tell you everything will be all right. God is perfect - the perfect Father, the perfect friend. He is completely trustworthy.
Have you been disappointed or hurt by someone you love? How can you extend grace to them today? Trust in the one who is dependable. God is willing and able to be your solid rock. He is the one you can always turn to.
Wednesday, May 18, 2016
He Is My All In All
Ephesians 3:14-19 / New Living Translation - "I fall to my knees and pray to the Father, the Creator of everything in heaven and on earth. I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God's love and keep you strong. And may you have the power to understand, as all God's people should how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God"
Gloomy days happen. In the midst of the dreariness it helps to hear the voice of a friend, especially one who points us so perfectly to the sustenance we need. The prayer of Paul, addressed to those in desperate need of hearing the promises of life in Jesus Christ, is a prayer for you.
Pray this for yourself, your friend, your neighbor, your coworker. Pray until you feel the roots deepening and strengthening in love. Pray it again and again until the power to understand overwhelms you - he is all you need! Pray it until the fullness of God's love for you overcomes your gloom. Pray until the life and power of God break through the clouds and shine brightly upon your face. He is all you need. You can trust him for everything!
Gloomy days happen. In the midst of the dreariness it helps to hear the voice of a friend, especially one who points us so perfectly to the sustenance we need. The prayer of Paul, addressed to those in desperate need of hearing the promises of life in Jesus Christ, is a prayer for you.
Pray this for yourself, your friend, your neighbor, your coworker. Pray until you feel the roots deepening and strengthening in love. Pray it again and again until the power to understand overwhelms you - he is all you need! Pray it until the fullness of God's love for you overcomes your gloom. Pray until the life and power of God break through the clouds and shine brightly upon your face. He is all you need. You can trust him for everything!
Tuesday, May 17, 2016
He Restores My Soul
Luke 8:52-55 / New International Version - "Stop wailing," Jesus said. "She is not dead but asleep." They laughed at him, knowing that she was dead. But he took her by the hand and said, "My child, get up!" Her spirit returned, and at once she stood up. Then Jesus told them to give her something to eat.
Do you know whose you are? Your father and mother rightly claim you as their child, but do you recognize Jesus as the one who restores you as his son or daughter? He knows your coming and going, your every inner working: You are his.
How difficult it is to put our needs into the hands of the Father! Do we dare hope? Imagine watching your child die and feeling the despair of her absence, only to have Jesus claim that she is asleep. Both the girl's father and Jesus loved the child; both claimed her as their daughter. But only Jesus commanded her spirit and her life. His child hears his voice and obeys his command; she gets up and is restored!
God is faithful to the deepest needs of your heart; he knows you full well! Where is he directing you today? Are you a son or daughter in need of healing? Of hope? Hear his voice and let your spirit be renewed!
Do you know whose you are? Your father and mother rightly claim you as their child, but do you recognize Jesus as the one who restores you as his son or daughter? He knows your coming and going, your every inner working: You are his.
How difficult it is to put our needs into the hands of the Father! Do we dare hope? Imagine watching your child die and feeling the despair of her absence, only to have Jesus claim that she is asleep. Both the girl's father and Jesus loved the child; both claimed her as their daughter. But only Jesus commanded her spirit and her life. His child hears his voice and obeys his command; she gets up and is restored!
God is faithful to the deepest needs of your heart; he knows you full well! Where is he directing you today? Are you a son or daughter in need of healing? Of hope? Hear his voice and let your spirit be renewed!
Saturday, May 14, 2016
He Makes All Things New
Psalm 103:2-5 / English Standard Version - "Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy; who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's"
We know that humans have limits. We need to eat and drink regularly to stay healthy. We get tired and cranky if we don't have enough sleep. We learn patience and self-control as we get older, and our emotions can be overwhelmed by life's great upheavals. The shepherd king, David, knew this and understood God's gracious and loving path of renewal.
Whether you are at peak performance or running on empty, needing renewal now or in the future, God alone can give you what you need for renewal of your mind, body, spirit and strength because he knows your limits and capabilities. He knows that you need time to refuel and space to recover your strength.
Be renewed today. Don't believe that you are weak because you need to rest; you aren't meant to be strong forever. You are designed to lean on the one whose strength can renew you. Tell him how much you need him today!
We know that humans have limits. We need to eat and drink regularly to stay healthy. We get tired and cranky if we don't have enough sleep. We learn patience and self-control as we get older, and our emotions can be overwhelmed by life's great upheavals. The shepherd king, David, knew this and understood God's gracious and loving path of renewal.
Whether you are at peak performance or running on empty, needing renewal now or in the future, God alone can give you what you need for renewal of your mind, body, spirit and strength because he knows your limits and capabilities. He knows that you need time to refuel and space to recover your strength.
Be renewed today. Don't believe that you are weak because you need to rest; you aren't meant to be strong forever. You are designed to lean on the one whose strength can renew you. Tell him how much you need him today!
Friday, May 13, 2016
He Heals My Broken Relationships
James 4:8,11 / New Living Translation - "Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world. Don't speak evil against each other, dear brothers and sisters. If you criticize and judge each other, then you are criticizing and judging God's law. But your job is to obey the law, not to judge whether it applies to you"
We were created for relationship. Since Adam expressed the need for a companion, people have sought fellowship together. But no matter how strong our desire to have healthy, loving relationships, it can be hard to move past the pain of a broken one. It may be a divorce, a breakup with a boyfriend/girlfriend, or a longtime friend who has somehow become a bitter rival. In order for reconciliation to take place, we must look to God for direction.
First, pray. Submit yourself to God and refuse to allow the enemy any further destruction. Next, ask him what sin, if any, you have committed to contribute to the dissent. Confess it, repent, and let it go. Now comes the hard part: don't speak out against them. Don't slander or gossip or share your grievance; it won't make things better. In fact, it only makes things worse.
Can you extend forgiveness instead of judgment? Let the love of God flow through you and onto those you are at odds with. Begin to pray daily that you can forgive them for any pain or hurt they may have caused you. God is your great and mighty healer, depend on him for help.
We were created for relationship. Since Adam expressed the need for a companion, people have sought fellowship together. But no matter how strong our desire to have healthy, loving relationships, it can be hard to move past the pain of a broken one. It may be a divorce, a breakup with a boyfriend/girlfriend, or a longtime friend who has somehow become a bitter rival. In order for reconciliation to take place, we must look to God for direction.
First, pray. Submit yourself to God and refuse to allow the enemy any further destruction. Next, ask him what sin, if any, you have committed to contribute to the dissent. Confess it, repent, and let it go. Now comes the hard part: don't speak out against them. Don't slander or gossip or share your grievance; it won't make things better. In fact, it only makes things worse.
Can you extend forgiveness instead of judgment? Let the love of God flow through you and onto those you are at odds with. Begin to pray daily that you can forgive them for any pain or hurt they may have caused you. God is your great and mighty healer, depend on him for help.
Thursday, May 12, 2016
He Is My Peace
John 14:26-27 / New International Version - "The Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid"
Peace is much-desired but often elusive. Just when we seem to be getting life under control, a new disaster strikes. Just when we find enough calm to settle our minds, a bigger calamity arises. Or worse, the waves of difficulty come one after another with no end in sight.
Those in the armed forces know what it's like to feel one barrage after another and then experience a silence that cannot be trusted. It leads to another onslaught, persistent fighting, and ongoing upheaval. Will there ever be an end to our conflicts? Why does peace elude us?
We find everything we need when we look to God's Word. The peace of Jesus Christ is the only lasting peace, the only true peace that we can attain while walking this earth. Because he knew our weak flesh, Jesus promised us a path to his peace even in this world of struggle, our Advocate, the Holy Spirit.
Do you trust in the peace of God? Is your heart troubled or afraid? Ask the Holy Spirit to give you the peace Jesus promised, and believe that he will accomplish what this conflicted world cannot.
Peace is much-desired but often elusive. Just when we seem to be getting life under control, a new disaster strikes. Just when we find enough calm to settle our minds, a bigger calamity arises. Or worse, the waves of difficulty come one after another with no end in sight.
Those in the armed forces know what it's like to feel one barrage after another and then experience a silence that cannot be trusted. It leads to another onslaught, persistent fighting, and ongoing upheaval. Will there ever be an end to our conflicts? Why does peace elude us?
We find everything we need when we look to God's Word. The peace of Jesus Christ is the only lasting peace, the only true peace that we can attain while walking this earth. Because he knew our weak flesh, Jesus promised us a path to his peace even in this world of struggle, our Advocate, the Holy Spirit.
Do you trust in the peace of God? Is your heart troubled or afraid? Ask the Holy Spirit to give you the peace Jesus promised, and believe that he will accomplish what this conflicted world cannot.
Wednesday, May 11, 2016
He Gives Me Courage
Philippians 1:20 / New International Version - "I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have a sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death"
That's a pretty strong declaration: one exemplified in the life of Vibia Perpetua, a married noblewoman and Christian martyr who died at twenty-two years of age in Third Century Rome. There is a record of her diary entries detailing her life in prison and final hours. Perpetua was arrested for her profession of faith in Christ and threatened with a harrowing execution if she did not renounce her faith.
Early martyrdom wasn't only about dying for the profession of faith. It was about humiliation and torture carried out in a kind of sporting area - with fans celebrating the demise of the victims. Yet, Perpetua displayed incredible fortitude in her final hour. Read her account and you would have to agree that her courage could not possibly have been attributed to a human characteristic. Her courage came from God.
Having courage, being brave, remaining firm - we can only hold on for so long. Sometimes we need to recognize that it's time to call on the supernatural strength of our Father. He gives us enough courage to walk through any trying circumstance.
When you find yourself at the end of your courage supply, boldly ask God to replenish the stock. What are you going through today that needs a touch of supernatural courage to get you through? Can you be honest with God about your need for him?
http://www.britannica.com/biography/Perpetua-Christian-martyr - Biography
http://legacy.fordham.edu/halsall/source/perpetua.asp - The Passion of Saints Perpetua and Felicity
That's a pretty strong declaration: one exemplified in the life of Vibia Perpetua, a married noblewoman and Christian martyr who died at twenty-two years of age in Third Century Rome. There is a record of her diary entries detailing her life in prison and final hours. Perpetua was arrested for her profession of faith in Christ and threatened with a harrowing execution if she did not renounce her faith.
Early martyrdom wasn't only about dying for the profession of faith. It was about humiliation and torture carried out in a kind of sporting area - with fans celebrating the demise of the victims. Yet, Perpetua displayed incredible fortitude in her final hour. Read her account and you would have to agree that her courage could not possibly have been attributed to a human characteristic. Her courage came from God.
Having courage, being brave, remaining firm - we can only hold on for so long. Sometimes we need to recognize that it's time to call on the supernatural strength of our Father. He gives us enough courage to walk through any trying circumstance.
When you find yourself at the end of your courage supply, boldly ask God to replenish the stock. What are you going through today that needs a touch of supernatural courage to get you through? Can you be honest with God about your need for him?
http://www.britannica.com/biography/Perpetua-Christian-martyr - Biography
http://legacy.fordham.edu/halsall/source/perpetua.asp - The Passion of Saints Perpetua and Felicity
Tuesday, May 10, 2016
He Is All I Need
Philippians 4:12-13 / New International Version - "I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all things through him who gives me strength"
It happens on occasion, when the heavy spring rains come, that some homeowners find themselves on hands and knees trying to staunch the flow of water into their basement. The water rushes in, not down from the walls or windows, but up from the rising water table and through the foundation. And they bow low, soaking up all that they can.
It's a trying time, to be sure, as patience wears thins and towels pile high. But remember the living water, which springs up and gives life to the full! We can remind ourselves that it is only on our knees as servants that we draw abundantly from these waters, because they rush quickly to the lowest places - places that only a humble servant can access.
It's painful at times, hard on the back and knees, to be brought so low. But the heart soars, and all your thirsts are satisfied. You are in the company of Jesus Christ, who came not to be served, but to serve. Can you think of any better place to be?
What areas of your life do you struggle to be content in? Let his living water fill you up to overflowing with gratitude and praise.
It happens on occasion, when the heavy spring rains come, that some homeowners find themselves on hands and knees trying to staunch the flow of water into their basement. The water rushes in, not down from the walls or windows, but up from the rising water table and through the foundation. And they bow low, soaking up all that they can.
It's a trying time, to be sure, as patience wears thins and towels pile high. But remember the living water, which springs up and gives life to the full! We can remind ourselves that it is only on our knees as servants that we draw abundantly from these waters, because they rush quickly to the lowest places - places that only a humble servant can access.
It's painful at times, hard on the back and knees, to be brought so low. But the heart soars, and all your thirsts are satisfied. You are in the company of Jesus Christ, who came not to be served, but to serve. Can you think of any better place to be?
What areas of your life do you struggle to be content in? Let his living water fill you up to overflowing with gratitude and praise.
Monday, May 9, 2016
He Is Just
1 Peter 2:23 / New Living Translation - "He did not retaliate when he was insulted, nor threaten revenge when he suffered. He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly"
Our parents were right: life is not fair. We probably learned that early on when we were just kids - we didn't get the larger half of the cookie, or when one of our siblings got to go somewhere special while we were at school. As we got older, we might have learned about the lack of fairness a little more harshly: perhaps through wrongful accusations, denied promotions, or unmet expectations.
We hear about big trials, read about complicated court cases, and watch movies dedicated to the theme of justice. But many times even after a verdict is reached, the truth is uncertain. It's all about how the case was fought - who had the best lawyers and the most money. Has justice truly been served?
It's easy to be disappointed with the unfairness of life. When wrongfully accused or misunderstood, it's hard to take it to heart. We either want to defend our reputation until the bitter end, or disappear. When faced with these situations, we can rest in the knowledge God is just. He will judge everyone fairly - not by appearance, false evidence or hearsay.
We don't have to worry about our accusers fighting their case more convincingly. We don't leave our judgment in the hands of a jury. Even the most expensive defense attorney can't make a case against us that will last into eternity. God knows what happened, and, more importantly, he knows our hearts.
How does knowing that God is a fair judge help you let go of your need to defend yourself?
Our parents were right: life is not fair. We probably learned that early on when we were just kids - we didn't get the larger half of the cookie, or when one of our siblings got to go somewhere special while we were at school. As we got older, we might have learned about the lack of fairness a little more harshly: perhaps through wrongful accusations, denied promotions, or unmet expectations.
We hear about big trials, read about complicated court cases, and watch movies dedicated to the theme of justice. But many times even after a verdict is reached, the truth is uncertain. It's all about how the case was fought - who had the best lawyers and the most money. Has justice truly been served?
It's easy to be disappointed with the unfairness of life. When wrongfully accused or misunderstood, it's hard to take it to heart. We either want to defend our reputation until the bitter end, or disappear. When faced with these situations, we can rest in the knowledge God is just. He will judge everyone fairly - not by appearance, false evidence or hearsay.
We don't have to worry about our accusers fighting their case more convincingly. We don't leave our judgment in the hands of a jury. Even the most expensive defense attorney can't make a case against us that will last into eternity. God knows what happened, and, more importantly, he knows our hearts.
How does knowing that God is a fair judge help you let go of your need to defend yourself?
Sunday, May 8, 2016
He Is Pure
Psalm 86:11 / New Living Translation - "Teach me your ways, O LORD, that I may live according to your truth! Grant me purity of heart, so that I may honor you"
If you have ever tried to clean a white dog who rolled around in the mud, you know that it seems impossible to get rid of every speck of dirt - especially if said puppy isn't too keen on bathe time. If it would just sit still and allow its owner to get him/her cleaned, all traces of dirt could be eliminated. But often times, neither the dog nor the owner has that type of patience.
Cleaning up the sin in our lives can feel similar. Finding and ridding ourselves of all impurity can be a slow and painful process. It might seem downright impossible at times. Maybe we don't want to be examined, or perhaps sitting still is the problem.
The good news is we don't have to try to purify ourselves. We allow God to do it for us. Fortunately, he is patient, and he has the perfect solution. He uses the sacrifice of his Son - the pure, spotless lamb - to wash away all of our dirt. Every last speck.
Does the thought of being thoroughly cleaned appeal to you, or does it make you nervous? Maybe the answer is a little of both. You can trust the Lord to gently wash all the filth away and cause you to be pure again. Can you sit still for long enough to let him do it?
If you have ever tried to clean a white dog who rolled around in the mud, you know that it seems impossible to get rid of every speck of dirt - especially if said puppy isn't too keen on bathe time. If it would just sit still and allow its owner to get him/her cleaned, all traces of dirt could be eliminated. But often times, neither the dog nor the owner has that type of patience.
Cleaning up the sin in our lives can feel similar. Finding and ridding ourselves of all impurity can be a slow and painful process. It might seem downright impossible at times. Maybe we don't want to be examined, or perhaps sitting still is the problem.
The good news is we don't have to try to purify ourselves. We allow God to do it for us. Fortunately, he is patient, and he has the perfect solution. He uses the sacrifice of his Son - the pure, spotless lamb - to wash away all of our dirt. Every last speck.
Does the thought of being thoroughly cleaned appeal to you, or does it make you nervous? Maybe the answer is a little of both. You can trust the Lord to gently wash all the filth away and cause you to be pure again. Can you sit still for long enough to let him do it?
Saturday, May 7, 2016
He Makes Me Whole
Philippians 3:21 / New Living Translation - "He will take our weak mortal bodies and change them into glorious bodies like his own, using the same power with which he will bring everything under his control"
When a flower pot crashes to the floor or a vase shatters, we consider the damage in hopes that it can be repaired. What is left? Dangerously tiny shards of glass, too small to piece back together? Or simple, bulky pieces like those of a puzzle, needing only glue and patience? One thing is certain: we will work harder to fix something that has great value to us.
Just like the broken vase, we are broken vessels in need of extensive repairs. No elaborate doctoring is required, however, just the humblest of procedures. We hold out our hands and give our broken, desperate, painful, sinful, prideful selves over to the one who mends us into wholeness without a single remaining scar or crack.
How can God do this? Because he is both holy and whole, and we are his creation. We were always meant to be perfect, but sin got in the way. Now, we can only submit to the one whose healing work never leaves a scar and whose abiding love makes us whole forever.
Do you have scars of brokenness that need healing? Hold everything up to God, who fully covers everything, and in the process makes you whole.
When a flower pot crashes to the floor or a vase shatters, we consider the damage in hopes that it can be repaired. What is left? Dangerously tiny shards of glass, too small to piece back together? Or simple, bulky pieces like those of a puzzle, needing only glue and patience? One thing is certain: we will work harder to fix something that has great value to us.
Just like the broken vase, we are broken vessels in need of extensive repairs. No elaborate doctoring is required, however, just the humblest of procedures. We hold out our hands and give our broken, desperate, painful, sinful, prideful selves over to the one who mends us into wholeness without a single remaining scar or crack.
How can God do this? Because he is both holy and whole, and we are his creation. We were always meant to be perfect, but sin got in the way. Now, we can only submit to the one whose healing work never leaves a scar and whose abiding love makes us whole forever.
Do you have scars of brokenness that need healing? Hold everything up to God, who fully covers everything, and in the process makes you whole.
Friday, May 6, 2016
He Gives Me Victory
Romans 8:35,37 / New Living Translation - "Can anything ever separate us from Christ's love? Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute, or in danger, or threatened with death? No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loves us"
It is tempting to take shortcuts, but a life of victory is not a life without disappointment or hard work. Jesus promised us trials and difficulties as we follow him. This world is a fallen one, full of people using their free-will for sin and destruction. Jesus' promise was meant to prepare us for the rejection, bitterness and hatred we would encounter.
Jesus also promised us grace, strength, hope, and victory. Don't be deceived to think that good works, prayers or even faith will produce a life of ease and earthly blessing, showered down from above. We have one promise of victory and that is the saving love of Jesus Christ.
Don't ever fear that you will be overcome; his love, even in times of despair, is victorious over all. Anything other than Jesus Christ, whose death and resurrection are your great and glorious victory, is a waste of your precious time!
It is tempting to take shortcuts, but a life of victory is not a life without disappointment or hard work. Jesus promised us trials and difficulties as we follow him. This world is a fallen one, full of people using their free-will for sin and destruction. Jesus' promise was meant to prepare us for the rejection, bitterness and hatred we would encounter.
Jesus also promised us grace, strength, hope, and victory. Don't be deceived to think that good works, prayers or even faith will produce a life of ease and earthly blessing, showered down from above. We have one promise of victory and that is the saving love of Jesus Christ.
Don't ever fear that you will be overcome; his love, even in times of despair, is victorious over all. Anything other than Jesus Christ, whose death and resurrection are your great and glorious victory, is a waste of your precious time!
Thursday, May 5, 2016
He Understands Me
John 10:27-28 / English Standard Version - "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand"
An international festival is held each year and the most popular event showcases the talents of Irish sheep dogs. The shepherd uses whistles and quiet voice commands to direct the dog, who in turn herds the sheep through various obstacles and dangers. Audiences marvel at the speed of the dogs and the swift changes in the herd's direction, all due to the effective communication between man, dog and sheep.
Jesus often spoke about shepherds, calling himself our Good Shepherd. His followers understood that sheep need help through many obstacles and dangers, just as we do. And we need Jesus to communicate with us in a quiet, familiar voice so we will know which way to turn for safety.
Our shepherd has one goal: keep his lambs safe. He hems us in, depending on our destination, with gentle calls and prodding when necessary. He understands our limits, our tendency to wander, our nature to rebel. In his goodness, he nudges our sides, reminding us to trust him and obey his commands. We must follow him to safety, to eternal life.
When you listen to God, moving in unison with speed and accuracy, you are an example in a lost world. Trust and obey, knowing that God understands you and leads you to glory.
Take some time to listen for his voice today. He understands you on a much deeper level than you may know.
An international festival is held each year and the most popular event showcases the talents of Irish sheep dogs. The shepherd uses whistles and quiet voice commands to direct the dog, who in turn herds the sheep through various obstacles and dangers. Audiences marvel at the speed of the dogs and the swift changes in the herd's direction, all due to the effective communication between man, dog and sheep.
Jesus often spoke about shepherds, calling himself our Good Shepherd. His followers understood that sheep need help through many obstacles and dangers, just as we do. And we need Jesus to communicate with us in a quiet, familiar voice so we will know which way to turn for safety.
Our shepherd has one goal: keep his lambs safe. He hems us in, depending on our destination, with gentle calls and prodding when necessary. He understands our limits, our tendency to wander, our nature to rebel. In his goodness, he nudges our sides, reminding us to trust him and obey his commands. We must follow him to safety, to eternal life.
When you listen to God, moving in unison with speed and accuracy, you are an example in a lost world. Trust and obey, knowing that God understands you and leads you to glory.
Take some time to listen for his voice today. He understands you on a much deeper level than you may know.
Wednesday, May 4, 2016
He Is Truth
Psalm 43:3 / New King James Version - "Send out your light and your truth; let them lead me; let them bring me to your holy hill and to your dwelling"
When we are weak, the enemy may just try to sneak in and pepper us with lies - to kick us while we are down. It's an incredible effective tactic. Our best line of defense is to surround ourselves with the truth. Read it. Think it. Pray it. Declare it.
In John 1:1, we read that the Word was with God in the beginning, and the Word was God. In Psalm 119:160, it says, "The very essence of your words is truth." Using simple logic, we put these Scriptures together and derive the following: If the Word is God and the Word is truth, then God is truth.
When you find yourself believing the lies of the enemy, turn to God's Word. Find your encouragement, joy, peace, and strength in his never-changing truth. No matter how many lies you have believed in the past, or how many you are believing right now, you can shut that deceptive voice down by saturating yourself in the truth of God's Word.
What lies do you need to expose to God's truth today?
When we are weak, the enemy may just try to sneak in and pepper us with lies - to kick us while we are down. It's an incredible effective tactic. Our best line of defense is to surround ourselves with the truth. Read it. Think it. Pray it. Declare it.
In John 1:1, we read that the Word was with God in the beginning, and the Word was God. In Psalm 119:160, it says, "The very essence of your words is truth." Using simple logic, we put these Scriptures together and derive the following: If the Word is God and the Word is truth, then God is truth.
When you find yourself believing the lies of the enemy, turn to God's Word. Find your encouragement, joy, peace, and strength in his never-changing truth. No matter how many lies you have believed in the past, or how many you are believing right now, you can shut that deceptive voice down by saturating yourself in the truth of God's Word.
What lies do you need to expose to God's truth today?
Tuesday, May 3, 2016
He Is My Strength
Exodus 15:1-2 / English Standard Version - "I will sing to the Lord, for he has triumphed gloriously; the horse and his rider he has thrown into the sea. The Lord is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation; this is my God, and I will praise him, my father's God, and I will exalt him"
Have you ever watched the Olympics and marveled at the incredible strength, discipline and God-given talent of the athletes? Watching interviews, we commonly hear the question, "Where do you get the strength - the motivation?"
Daily life, while not an Olympic sport, requires its own motivation if we are to push through the blood, sweat and tears to the gold medal that awaits us. Moses, after the victorious escape from Pharaoh's army, praises the source of their strength in the Scripture above.
Are you facing an Olympic-sized trial? Are you wondering where your strength to endure will come from? Does it seem absolutely crazy that God can and will lift you up to overcome? Remember that he is your strength and your song; trust his power to be yours and praise him because he is worthy. He alone has the strength you need, and he supports you time and time again. Trust him, thank him, exalt him, and the gold medal will be yours!
Have you ever watched the Olympics and marveled at the incredible strength, discipline and God-given talent of the athletes? Watching interviews, we commonly hear the question, "Where do you get the strength - the motivation?"
Daily life, while not an Olympic sport, requires its own motivation if we are to push through the blood, sweat and tears to the gold medal that awaits us. Moses, after the victorious escape from Pharaoh's army, praises the source of their strength in the Scripture above.
Are you facing an Olympic-sized trial? Are you wondering where your strength to endure will come from? Does it seem absolutely crazy that God can and will lift you up to overcome? Remember that he is your strength and your song; trust his power to be yours and praise him because he is worthy. He alone has the strength you need, and he supports you time and time again. Trust him, thank him, exalt him, and the gold medal will be yours!
Monday, May 2, 2016
He Is My Reward
Isaiah 42:16 / New King James Version - "I will bring the blind by a way they did not know; I will lead them in paths they have not known. I will make darkness light before them, and crooked places straight. These things I will do for them, And not forsake them"
Spring is a time of rebirth and renewal, a reward for making it through the long, cold winter. Some parts of the world have enjoyed colorful spring gardens in full fragrant bloom for weeks. In other regions, the cold snow recently came to a close and the earliest bulbs may not have reached their full potential yet. Whether above the surface or below, resurrection is happening all around us, revealing us with new life and vitality!
When this happens around you, let the joy lead you to the empty tomb, where Jesus' miraculous resurrection also brings new life. Resurrection is a revival of hope, of light shining in the darkness, of our glorious reward!
The above verse shares a promise that cannot be taken away from us. He has achieved his glory and we will share in its reward: death cannot conquer or steal our inheritance! Therefore, we can fully trust and believe in Jesus Christ, our hope. There is nothing more magnificent, nothing else worthy of our expectations, for he has made a way for us to share in his glory!
Let the sins that have hindered you melt away the winter snow and allow his renewing strength to overwhelm your soul. Breathe in this fresh start. Today is a new day, full of promise and life. Receive the reward of salvation as a gift.
Spring is a time of rebirth and renewal, a reward for making it through the long, cold winter. Some parts of the world have enjoyed colorful spring gardens in full fragrant bloom for weeks. In other regions, the cold snow recently came to a close and the earliest bulbs may not have reached their full potential yet. Whether above the surface or below, resurrection is happening all around us, revealing us with new life and vitality!
When this happens around you, let the joy lead you to the empty tomb, where Jesus' miraculous resurrection also brings new life. Resurrection is a revival of hope, of light shining in the darkness, of our glorious reward!
The above verse shares a promise that cannot be taken away from us. He has achieved his glory and we will share in its reward: death cannot conquer or steal our inheritance! Therefore, we can fully trust and believe in Jesus Christ, our hope. There is nothing more magnificent, nothing else worthy of our expectations, for he has made a way for us to share in his glory!
Let the sins that have hindered you melt away the winter snow and allow his renewing strength to overwhelm your soul. Breathe in this fresh start. Today is a new day, full of promise and life. Receive the reward of salvation as a gift.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)