Faith and Hope. Unseen Yet Real.

(This is a long post. My heart is bursting and I deeply desire that The Body of Christ be encouraged in these truths!) 

I've been deeply reflecting on faith and hope these last few weeks. 

Faith and hope are focused on what we cannot see, but what is real nonetheless. 

We are constantly encouraged throughout God's Word - dare I say - urged to take hold of faith. To believe. To hope. 

Abraham "hoped against hope". Shadrach & friends told Nebuchadnezzar that God was able to save them, but even if He didn't that they would not bow. Paul & Silas singing praises to God in jail, confident that God was more powerful than their circumstances. Also, the many written of in Hebrews 11. 

Faith and Hope. Unseen Yet Real.

Truly we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses and are not alone!!! Throughout history, how many people lived fully in awe of God whom we never hear about? Quiet lives who do His work and don't have books written of them. Yet they obeyed and impacted lives around them through their faith... 

Truly, God is at work in His Kingdom here on earth and He is helping us all to do the good works He has given us to do - whether our good work appears clearly to others or not is not the issue. God is revealed through us to those whom God is drawing to Him as we go about His business. 

In all these things, can we not rejoice today? Can we not celebrate His goodness to work in and through us? 

Dear friends, there is something even greater for us to rejoice in! 

When the 70 came back excited from their missionary excursions, Jesus instructed them to have Godly perspective in their victories.

“Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing will injure you. Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are recorded in heaven."” Luke 10:19-20 NASB

Crazy! They had power from The Son of the Real God (not a made up god like cultures around them worshipped). BUT!!!! There was a GREATER gift to celebrate. Their names were written in the Book of Life. They were secure in Christ! 

We also are secure in Christ! We do not shrink back! We are the chosen and equipped warriors of God who seek His face. We work in His strength. We find refuge and encouragement in Him. We are made right with our Maker through Jesus and given authority and power to do the work God gives us to advance His kingdom against the gates of hell. 

“And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” Matthew 16:18 NIV

The church will not be overcome. She is the Body of Christ. Jesus is in us and overflowing though us. Jesus has all God-given authority and He has given this to His followers so we can do the work God gives us to do. Our names are written in the Book of Life. Nothing can separate us from God's love.

“But we do not belong to those who shrink back and are destroyed, but to those who have faith and are saved.” Hebrews 10:39 NIV

Father God, You are glorious! Mighty! Holy! You have not only saved us from sin and death, but also given each of us work to do today. We all have different jobs to do, and all are important. Speak through us to the lives around us. Let our lives be so full of Your Holy Spirit that even strangers would notice and be drawn to You. Open our eyes to opportunities to share Jesus, using words when necessary. Love boldly through us. Reach the individuals who feel lost and unloved. Let them know You are aware of them and that Your love for them is pure. Heal those with diseases, and if not healing in this lifetime, we ask for a mighty outpouring of Jesus through them. Give increased faith to those struggling with anxiety and depression, that they can build their 'believing muscles' today. Thank You for working in our lives and giving us work to do... That we get the awesome opportunity to share the GOOD NEWS of Jesus with others! In Jesus' name.

Crazy Times

Today's culture. Media. Does it excite you? Make you cringe? Anxious? Mad? Scared? Tempted to spew your view?

Have you stopped to think how we are to react in these times? (It's not so different from Paul's day.)

“Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.... Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone... Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” - Romans 12:14-15, 17-18, 21 NIV 

"For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses.” - 2 Corinthians 10:3-4 NASB

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” - Galatians 5:22-23 NASB

“Now all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation,” - 2 Corinthians 5:18 NASB (See verses 19-20 also)

Love.           Reconcile.            Prayer.            Share Jesus.            Help the weak.            Humble yourselves.           Love your enemy.            Forgive.            Pray for their salvation.           Trust God.

Father God, thank You for unmerited favor!!!! Give us wisdom & humility so we can be shrewd & gentle in these crazy days. Convict us if we have any unhealthy attitude or sin in us. Help us develop a grateful mindset, focused on what's good. Help us believe that prayer is powerful. Grow Your fruit in us! Love boldly through us! Father, speak truth and grace through us to people in our networks. Give us opportunities & compel us to share Jesus. How will they know if we don't share? Don't let us forget who we were before Jesus saved us. Don't let us get sucked into emotional bondage or verbal wars that aren't beneficial. There is much work to be done! Show me what You want me to do to spread the hope and promise of Jesus - for all who believe & follow Him. In Jesus' name! 

Adding Truth to My Day

I needed to find creative ways to place Scripture in my life - right in my face throughout my day. Truth to cling to when I don't "feel" so strong in faith.

Post-it's and slips of paper disappear. So I painted some blocks, glued on some paper and plastered Truth on them! I'll be drawn to look at them now - and maybe someone who comes in my home will be encouraged as well. 

Here is a verse dear to my heart. It reminds me of so many truths!

How deeply loved I am!
God wants me to be with Him.
Jesus made a way for me to remain.
God hears me.
God works through me.
He produces fruit - that lasts beyond my last breath.
God is glorified in my relationship with Him and through my prayers.
God wants to answer my prayers.
Because of Jesus.

I could go on and on. (I'll spare you.)

Abba God, thank You for truth to put in our belt (Eph 6) - we need it!!! We need Your Word for guidance and encouragement. Show us what verses You want us to focus on - and how to increase truth in our daily lives. Whether it's through post-it's, a daily calendar reminder, crafty decor, etc. We are all created differently; let us not compare ourselves but to focus simply on You and Your Truth. Saturate our souls so thoroughly with Truth and Grace that doubt dissipates into oblivion. Increase our faith as we seek You. Thanks Abba, for guiding us and encouraging us through Your Word! In Jesus' name...

Joyful When I Feel Lost?

There’s no warm up in Psalm 33. It’s a full-blown “Hallelujah! Let’s get up and praise God!” kind of song.

Sing joyfully to the LORD, you righteous;
it is fitting for the upright to praise him.
Praise the LORD…

“What about when life feels so hard? What if I don't want to? Why should I?”

 

Those days to go back to the foundational training, the questions we've all had to answer in our faith journey. Is God who He says He is? Will He do what He said He'd do? Is His Word true?

 

For the word of the LORD is right and true;
he is faithful in all he does.
The Lord loves righteousness and justice;
the earth is full of his unfailing love.

Let’s switch gears a bit… Imagine for a moment that you are a pilot. Trained by the best, and given all the resources you need to fly successfully. Each time you fly, you have choices. Do what you’ve been trained to do... or wing it. Pardon the pun. Be sure to use that instrument panel; flying by sight alone, especially in bad weather, can get you killed.

Do you see the parallel to life?

We can choose to "fly blind" by emotion or use the instruments God provides for proper perspective. He is the Master Trainer. He made the rules of the universe and knows how to help us navigate life.

By the word of the Lord the heavens were made,
And by the breath of His mouth all their host.
He gathers the waters of the sea together as a heap...

For He spoke, and it was done;
He commanded, and it stood fast.

 

Believing these verses are true, what can we do when we feel lost in a cloudy mess?

1. Breathe. Take a breath. Breathing helps us separate THIS moment from the moment we just left. It gives us a bit of oxygen to think better. Breathing is good.

2. Trust. Get your bearings and trust those instruments. Remember what God’s taught you and choose to trust Him.

The counsel of the Lord stands forever,
The plans of His heart from generation to generation.

...the plans of the LORD stand firm forever,

the purposes of his heart through all generations.

 

3. Remember grace is on-going.

From heaven the LORD looks down and sees all mankind;
from his dwelling place he watches all who live on earth—

he who forms the hearts of all, who considers everything they do.

 

…I am confident of this very thing,

that He who began a good work in you

will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus. - Philippians 1:6, NASB

But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear him,
on those whose hope is in his unfailing love,to deliver them from death and keep them alive in famine. 

Somehow, in all of life's messes, Abba God meets us - FAITHFULLY. We might not FEEL peace or joy today. We don't know when we'll come through the clouds to a blue sky. Yet we have TRUTH printed on pages that we can pick up. We are held in the hands of a mighty God who is much, much bigger and stronger than any storm we face.

We wait in hope for the LORD;
he is our help and our shield.
In him our hearts rejoice,
for we trust in his holy name.

May your unfailing love be with us, LORD,
even as we put our hope in you.

That is why we can, and will...

Sing joyfully to the LORD...
it is fitting for [us] to praise him.
Praise the LORD…

For the word of the LORD is right and true;
he is faithful in all he does.
The Lord loves righteousness and justice;
the earth is full of his unfailing love.

 

Abba God, You are beautiful. The way You work is beautiful. I'm so glad You know what I face and how to get me through today. Remind me when I look at the sky, that You are the One who made all I see... and when I look down, that You direct my paths. Give me the courage to praise You even in the storms. Have your way in me, Abba God. I know I can trust You. Help me live like it.Sustain those who are weary. Bind us the wounds of those who love You. In Jesus' name.

- Scripture portions from Psalm 33

Take heart, dear sister, for we have this assurance! (4)

Zechariah asked the angel, “How can I be sure of this? I am an old man and my wife is well along in years.”

The angel said to him, “I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to tell you this good news. 20 And now you will be silent and not able to speak until the day this happens, because you did not believe my words, which will come true at their appointed time." - Luke 1: 18-20, NIV 

Reactions reveal our heart condition! 

... and just how is that a good assurance??? 

 “…God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness.” - Hebrews 12:10b

God reveals truth to us about ourselves...

so that we can repent and be more like Jesus!

 

Oh Zacharias, I have often speculated the many reasons as to why you reacted to Gabriel’s message the way you did.  I wonder if all the human encounters with angels are met with humans asking questions. We are funny people, aren't we? Still, I’d really like to know. Why? Was it simply a cultural habit of skepticism that led you to challenge the mighty angel of God? Had you lost hope so much so that you couldn’t accept a blessing from God?

The kingdom of Israel was overrun by other nations, and YHWH had been silent for a very long time. Then, there was the one thing you wanted more than anything else. What else was left but to survive by living a life of righteousness as you waited for the long-awaited Messiah?

The passionate song you poured out clearly reveals that you reflected on God’s greatness, faithfulness, the wonder of life, and how small you are. I love how Abba God changed your heart, rekindling your confidence in YHWH, and bringing you great joy

Oh, Zacharias, your story gives me such hope and convicts me that God is greater than I dream, more involved in my life than I think, more faithful to fulfill His promises than I believe, and worthy of all honor – more than I give.

Abba God, thank You for working in Zacharias' life and sharing his story with us. Thank You for revealing my heart to me so I can repent - and for conforming me to Jesus' image. Create in me a clean heart and renew a steadfast spirit in me. Enable me to serve You without fear in holiness and righteousness all my days. Give me the ability to pray big, to believe that You are active in my life, and a passion to give You more honor. In Jesus' name.

 

Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesied:

“Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel,
because he has come to his people and redeemed them.
He has raised up a horn of salvation for us
in the house of his servant David
(as he said through his holy prophets of long ago),
salvation from our enemies
and from the hand of all who hate us—
to show mercy to our ancestors
and to remember his holy covenant,
the oath he swore to our father Abraham:
to rescue us from the hand of our enemies,
and to enable us to serve him without fear
in holiness and righteousness before him all our days.

And you, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High;
for you will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for him,
to give his people the knowledge of salvation
through the forgiveness of their sins,
because of the tender mercy of our God,
by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven
to shine on those living in darkness
and in the shadow of death,
to guide our feet into the path of peace.”

And the child grew and became strong in spirit... - from Luke 1:67-80, NIV

Take heart, dear sister, for we have this assurance! (3)

I wonder if Elizabeth and Zacharias were still earnestly praying for a child up to the day that Gabriel came with God’s message. Had they given up praying for children or had they kept praying into their old age?

 

We aren’t told. We’re only told that his prayer had been answered – in a BIG way. 

Abba knows that waiting is important in our journey as His children, and He knows when the right time is to answer our prayers.

 

God does really answers our prayers! 

“The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working].” – James 5:16, AMP

God does answer our prayers. In ways we can’t imagine. Hope is worth keeping. Prayers – BIG and small – are worth praying. 

Abba God, thank You for teaching me to pray big and keep on praying. You are so faithful to correct me when I need to pray differently, so I don’t need to worry about how I pray as long as I’m seeking YOU above all else. As I wait for answers, create in me a clean heart and fill with me with a desire to love You more. Protect me from disappointment by renewing my heart and mind with truth of Your goodness and faithfulness. Thank You for hearing my prayers before Your throne and promising to answer “Yes” in Christ Jesus. It’s in His name I pray… 

Take heart, dear sister, for we have this assurance! (2)

“Once when Zechariah’s division was on duty and he was serving as priest before God, he was chosen by lot...

"... your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son...He will be a joy and delight to you... He will bring back many of the people of Israel to the Lord their God… to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.” – Luke 1, NIV

What was a high honor for a priest to be chosen to burn incense in the Holy of Holies. Yet, something was missing: relationship with YHWH. It had been a very, very, very long time since God resided with the Israelites. Were the priestly duties simply a job due to the broken fellowship that had endured for centuries? 

I find it amusing that Gabriel was sent to talk with Zacharias when he had been chosen – not by accident – to go into the temple to burn incense. Can you imagine his shock? Going about his business and then BAM! “Um. Hello, mighty angel who stands in God’s presence. What brings you to the right hand of the altar of incense?” It’s just crazy to think that God would meet someone in a holy place. Or is it?

Abba was quite aware of Elizabeth and Zacharias, their desire to live righteously, their prayers for a child, and of the need to reconcile the Jews to their God. Abba is powerful and capable of meeting anyone He wants to meet, at any time. And it was time for...

God is with us!

How often do we go about our duties, which God set apart for us before the creation of this world, and not carry them out with an expectation to meet God? Do we believe that He is with us making all things work together for the good of all who love Him and are called according to His purpose? Greater is He who is in us, than He who is in the world. Do we believe that and live that out daily? Do we live with a sense of anticipation for Jesus’ return, because we are so in love with Him that we just can’t wait to meet Him face to face? Do we give up praying big prayers as we wait?

God is with us!

What a great gift of God’s presence we have! Yet we forget that He lives in us, by His Holy Spirit who counsels us. We forget that Abba God is always listening to us. We forget that we have a great High Priest – the Spotless Lamb of God – who intercedes for us.

How peculiar we are. He is with us. Yet we forget. Do you think it's time for us to start remembering?

Abba God, I’m so sorry for the times when I forget that You are with me in the set-apart duties You’ve given me to do. Thank You for seeing me and for caring about me – right now, where I am. Help me learn to abide more fully: to take a deep breath, to be still and dwell on “God with us.” Show me how to celebrate Your presence in my life more each day. For You are with me. You love me intimately, forever lavishing Your kindness on me. How great and good You are! In Jesus’ name…

Take heart, dear sister, for we have this assurance! (1)

Luke writes:

“Many have undertaken to draw up an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us, just as they were handed down to us by those who from the first were eyewitnesses and servants of the word. With this in mind, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I too decided to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught.” – Luke 1:1-4, NIV

God is real and His Word is trustworthy. 

Having the assurance that His Word really is true has gotten me through many desert times. If you struggle with doubts, and haven’t yet done a study on whether the Bible is historical and really God’s Word, then I strongly urge you to do so. If you aren’t sure where to start, I highly recommend this short study guide:

Foundations: Where We Got Our Bible 101 Study Guide (Amazon link)

Abba God, thank You for reminding me today of a foundational truth: You are TRUE and Your Word is TRUE. I can trust that You are who You say You are, and You will do what You said You will do. I am so grateful that You are in my life, and You have given me Your written Word to cling to and learn from. Thank You for sustaining me and encouraging me through Your powerful Word. Increase my faith in You and the power in Your Word. Have Your way in me, Abba. In Jesus’ name.

Faith in the name of Jesus.

In Acts 3, a lame man begs Peter and John for alms, but they don't have money to give. Instead, Peter gives the man the biggest surprise of his life!

What did Peter attribute the healing to? 

"And on the basis of faith in His name,

it is the name of Jesus

which has strengthened this man whom you see and know;

and the faith which comes through Him ..."

"...by the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene... by this name

this man stands here before you in good health. - Acts 3:16 and 4:10, NASB

Healing wasn't the only thing that came to the lame man. More importantly, he was given faith. And it wasn't by any good works, that any man could boast. It was a gift from God.

We all ask God for "alms" of some sort in our lives - some kind of change - and our Good Father gives us more than we can imagine or hope for.

God swoops in and surprises us with faith on the most ordinary of days. While it's not usually a dramatic "event," we are all witnesses to Him giving us more faith over time, which is quite a huge deal if you ask me.

Life where death and sin used to hold us captive.
A tiny spark of joy during a time of deep sadness.
The calm steadfast peace where anxiety used to rear its debilitating head.
A strong certain hope where fear used to reign.

Jesus is the Author of our faith. He initiated; we only responded.  

Jesus is the Finisher of our faith. He will continue to perfect our faith! Nothing we can do, beyond obedience.

Jesus said He came to give us abundant life. He prunes, He provides the fruit. We keep choosing to abide. His POWERFUL and ABLE Word is true, and He is faithful to finish what He started.  

 

Abba God, You are so good to me!

When I take the time to thoughtfully ponder Jesus....

to consider this gift of faith in Jesus' name...

Faith which comes through Jesus. 

Oh Abba, who am I, that You would do this for me? While I'm grateful for the faith You have given me, I am grieved the times I struggle to believe your powerful Word. I do believe, help me in my unbelief! By the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene - by His name and not because of anything we deserve - strengthen all of us in the Body of Christ. Give us courage to trust You and to believe that You will give us all we need to live by faith instead of by sight. In Jesus' name...

The King Knows My Heart (Warrior Princess series)

Dear friend in the faith,
I am pressed for time all around, but as there is one more Truth I learned in the recent Desert of Shame, I wanted to make sure it was sent by messenger before the next battle begins.

In this world we are like Jesus.

Wait a minute. Who? Me?
I’m like Christ Jesus in this world? Even though I still wage war against sin? Even though I seem to daily forget how important it is to be patient, kind, joyful, full of hope and gratitude?
“…as He is, so also are we in this world.” Wow. Isn’t that incredible???
What a blessed gift!
I am a NEW creation. The old is gone. I’m no longer condemned! I’ve been rescued and set upon a rock that cannot be shattered. I am sheltered by the wings of God Almighty. I’m able to talk 24/7 to the Holy One – and He sees me as clean and loveable.
There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves punishment, and the one who fears is not perfected in love 1 John 4:17-18
Abba God, thank You for all You have done. Give me eyes to see Truth: who You are, who I am. Give me courage to walk in faith today… to believe that I really am made like Christ Jesus (not ONLY given eternal life, but also meant to live in freedom and holiness). Truly, You are worth more than I can conceive, and I’m humbled that You love me so well. In Jesus’ name….

It is done, though not through my efforts.

Exertion. Labor. Toil. Great effort. The cunning and deceptive Perfection Beast ravaged my soul, threatening to destroy Hope. Dropping to my knees, I cried out to the only One who could save me. I found myself shaking internally with fear. Was the day lost? Suddenly, a blinding light appeared. I opened my eyes to see Despair gone; Hope standing strong. With one spoken Word, my Prince and Savior had sent the beast screaming into the darkness from which he came. HALLELUJAH!!!

These are my mornings. These are my days. Lies torment me, but Truth prevails! From death and sin, Emmanuel saved me once and for all. From lies, trials and tribulations, Jehovah saves me daily. Emotions don’t always cooperate; some days the wait is harder. Maybe my heart’s just stubborn in believing? I don’t know, but I know the One who does know. He is enough.

How precious to know The Lord has said “it is finished”! Today is NOT about what I need to do, or what I am able to accomplish. My work is to abide in Christ Jesus, to rest from my works and trust in His ability to finish the work He’s begun. So, I abide, He produces the fruit. I’m weak, but He is strong. He gives me the strength and ability to do what He planned for me to do. 

"Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me." - John 14:1

Abba God, thank You for coming to my aid daily. You are my rock and fortress. You saved me, You love me daily, You watch over me, You made me right and clean in your sight. When I revert to frantically scurrying around in circles, looking for ways to run in circles faster, convict me to “finish the sentence” with truth - following up lies with truth. Your Word is the sword of the Spirit, able to penetrate between bone and marrow. Thank You for promising to finish the work You started! Thank You for making it very clear that my job is abiding in Christ Jesus, trusting that HE WILL do the work in me. In Jesus' name... 

Hello Trouble. I'd like you to meet my Abba.

“The righteous cry, and the Lord hears

And delivers them out of all their troubles…

Many are the afflictions of the righteous, 
But the Lord delivers him out of them all.” - Psalm 34:17 & 19, NASB

How cool would it be to have my brain so retrained that when trouble comes, I can sweetly smile and say, “Hello Trouble. I’d like you to meet my Abba. Oh, by the way, He’s not just my Abba, He’s God…”  

I will have trouble, but God delivers me out of them all. So, whom – or what – shall I fear? Nothing can separate me from Him. He is my ever present help and comfort. He supplies my strength. He hears me and always has time for me.

My God is BIG, STRONG, and ABLE!

“Hello, Trouble. I’d like you to meet my Abba… “

  

Abba God, How gracious You are to deliver me out of my troubles. Yes, this life has many troubles, but You are faithful and true to bring me through them. They do not have any authority or lasting power over me. Thank You for always hearing me, for continually being present with me, and faithful in answering my cries. You are good, and your love does endure forever! May my lips, thoughts, and actions bring You glory and delight today. In Jesus’ name…  

My life. His way.

The mind of man plans his way,

But the Lord directs his steps. – Pr. 16:9 NASB

I make plans in my schedule, goals, relationships, etc. Not much goes as I’ve planned in my life. And that’s ok.

In their hearts humans plan their course,
but the Lord establishes their steps.- Pr. 16:9 NIV

I’ve made lots of plans that never panned out. I suppose it’s like any adventure throughout history. We make plans and preparations, hope for the best, and adapt to survive.

I’m learning that’s ok, too. Abba knows where I need to be – and when. He’s rooted my faith and determined my steps in life. He allows me to make my plans and He aligns them to His plans when necessary.

We plan the way we want to live, 
but only God makes us able to live it. – Pr. 16:9 The Message (Paraphrase)

Abba God, how gracious You are! You know what provisions I need so that I can do what You have planned for me to do. You know when I need to rest and when I need to work. You know when I need times of stretching or times of refreshing. You know how to make my next steps firm and solid. I can rely on You, through all of my plans, to get me where I need to be. Give me wisdom to listen when You whisper and courage to trust You. I want so much for my life to glorify You and point others to Jesus! How can I repay You for your grace, mercy, and kindness? Thank You for loving me and patiently guiding me. I’m so glad You love me and care more about my life than I do. In Jesus’ name and for your glory… 

Worry and Lies (3)

Lie # 3) You’re not good enough. Never will be.

Hmmm… Wait a minute. This one isn’t a lie. Or is it? What does really God say?

Truth: There is none righteous, not even one. – Romans 3:10a

 I don’t have the purity to approach God apart from Christ Jesus.

Truth: “Not that we are adequate in ourselves to consider anything as coming from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God, who also made us adequate as servants…” 2 Cor 3:5-6a, NASB

There’s nothing I can do that’s good enough to get to heaven – the only way in to the presence of God is through Jesus, It’s not about me.

Truth: “… learn from me...” Matt. 11:29

Learning does not mean perfection. It means “Follow me. Stay with me. Remain in me. Seek to know me and love as I have loved you.” It’s a continual process, much like a child’s education. The Disciples were with Jesus Himself for three straight years – in the flesh – and they still were learning how to follow Jesus years later (remember how Paul chastised Peter?).

Time to refocus: Instead of worrying or striving for unrealistic perfection, I choose to accept my weakness and accept Jesus’ ability to finish what He started in me. I choose to swing my foot over to that next foothold in the cliff of life. Even though I can’t reach or see it fully, He’ll help me find just the right place. One step at a time.

Abba God, Thank You for making me righteous and giving me adequacy through Jesus!  Your amazing mercy and grace continue to pierce my heart when I take time to ponder what it is that You’ve done for me. Remind me, when I am tempted to worry, that worry is not my friend – You are! Worry has no authority or claim on my life – You do. You are powerful and holy and pure of heart. You’re gentle, kind, and making sure that good comes out of all trials I face. I truly can choose to trust You – to be still (rest, relax), because You are God and You’ll do what You said You’d do! Truth doesn’t change. I want Jesus to be my everything, and I trust You’ll continue to strengthen our relationship. With praise and gratitude, in Jesus name… 

Worry and Lies (2)

Lie # 2) I’m a loser, stupid (etc).

This one has really done a number on me through the years. Maybe it’s my lack of ability to hang a simple shelf on the wall – which drives me crazy; I know what needs to happen but I just can’t get it right no matter how many times I’ve tried! <sigh> Sometimes I’m haunted by the failed relationships in my repertoire. Some days, it’s from being the last one picked too many times, or not being seen as the life of the party. It’s always something…

All humans sin, make mistakes, and make bad choices! It’s human nature, passed down through generations from Adam and Eve. When I call myself names, I might as well be calling my closest friends and loved ones the same; we’re all in the same human race. (ouch)

Truth: “…if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature… Now all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ… He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” – 2 Cor 5: 17-21, NASB

I may not always live – or feel – like I’m new, holy, righteous… but that doesn’t change the truth of what God’s done! 

Time to refocus: I can choose to trust (one moment at a time) that Jesus is enough to give me value. I’m now called into a royal family, a high priesthood, a life of devotion to The God who created all matter – from here to the end of the furthest universe. That’s a pretty big deal, and I’d do well to remember it.

Abba God, Thank You for calling me, for reconciling me to You through Christ Jesus, and for making me new! I know that I need to rely on You. This habit of sinfully worrying and relying on myself is one I need You to help me break. I want to throw off this hindrance and run passionately toward the prize You hold out for me. Thank You for calling me your child, for grafting me into the Bride of Christ, and for the promise that one day soon I’ll be united with Jesus. Forgive me for believing the lies instead of focusing on You. You are holy and beautiful. Give me eyes to see, as I learn from Jesus… in whose name I pray…  

Worry and Lies

I worry way too much. I know it’s sinful. I want to stop. It’s a habitual sin with deep roots into my childhood. I don’t remember when I learned to start worrying, but it’s pretty easy to learn how to worry in our culture. 

Here are some lies I started believing early on in life. Maybe you can relate.

Lie # 1) I need to fix my own problems. God only helps those who help themselves. BIG FAT LIE! While this is a source of pride for some, it’s been a mark of inadequacy for me.  

Truth: “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest. [I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls.]” - Matthew 11:28, Amplified

Jesus beckons those who have problems!

“I am the vine; you are the branches…. apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:4  

While I may be able to fix a few things in life, there are many problems only God can fix (ex: reconciliations with Him and others). I certainly can't do anything of eternity-lasting value without Him.

Instead of exhausting myself of precious time and energy, worrying about how to fix everything, I ought to be focusing all I have into abiding in my Lord Jesus.

Life’s not about fixing my problems. It’s about building a relationship with God: trusting Him and loving Him in return.

Abba God, your patience continues to amaze me. I’m so quick to fall back into old habitual sins of trying to do everything on my own, worrying and striving to control relationships and circumstances – which is a ridiculous waste of time and energy. I want to fully trust You and love You. Thank You for Jesus’ teaching through your Word and your Spirit. Remind me of truth when I forget – even for a moment – that I’m not called to do it all by myself. Thank You for truth that I can cling to when I’m feeling weak: I can do all that You’ve given me to do when I choose to trust You to provide me with the strength of Christ Jesus and the wisdom of your Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name… 

Two Roads: Curse or Blessing

This is what the Lord says:

“Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh and whose heart turns away from the Lord. That person will be like a bush in the wastelands; they will not see prosperity when it comes. They will dwell in the parched places of the desert, in a salt land where no one lives.

“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” – Jeremiah 17:7-8

Beloved sister, do you see? Every one of us has the choice between two paths. The destinations are vastly different and the choice is yours and mine. 

I can’t speak for you, but I sure do want that luscious jewelry-fruit, along with the opportunity to dangle my leg-roots into the babbling brook while my ever-green hand-leaves praise my Father in heaven! 

However, I know that confidence in Him and freedom from worry is not cheap or easy. I must place all my trust and all that I care about in His really big, strong, capable hands. It’s going to take time and practice, but I’ve got a great Teacher!

Abba God, thank You for your promises and generous grace toward us. We don’t deserve to be your children, and we are grateful! Give us hearts which are steadfast to trust in YOU alone, choosing to believe You are faithful and able to provide nourishment and strength for each situation. Give us courage to stand firm in faith no matter what. We give You all the honor, glory, and praise - only You are worthy! In Jesus’ name… 

Deliberate Choices... Deliberate Ruts...

I wish I could say that I wake up each morning, brimming over with affection for my Prince Jesus, and anticipation for what glimpses of Abba I might catch during the day. I don't. 

Daily I talk myself through a barrage of logic, based on Scripture, so that I am able to make the deliberate choice to die to the old fleshly girl who wants it her way, right away. I must choose - repeatedly throughout many days - to lay down old hurts which still haunt my mind and pierce my soul. I must choose to rip off those worries and concerns which crept back into my heart and mind when I wasn't looking. 

Two truths are in my arsenal to fight the Daily Battle of Choice to seek God (when I'd rather stay  in bed all day - or worse - treat others as badly as I feel inside). 

1. God did so much for me - none of which I deserve. 

I'm so embarrassed to say (I guess because of that "I have it all together" poker face we think we all have to carry.) that I often have to logically walk through Scriptures to convince myself of this truth. It's not a quick process and it is painful to lay aside the lies and doubts. Some days I'm not so successful, but after 20+ years of fighting this battle, the Stubborn Doubt Mode days are starting to lose out to the Truth Really is Reality days. 

2. Abba God has so much more to show me, which I cannot comprehend. 

I have to convince myself to leave the Valley of No Hope and step into the Realm of What I Cannot Yet See (aka I'm Going Home & It's Not HERE!). God didn't ONLY raise me from death into life so that I could live in a boring "heaven" - whatever your view is of heaven, it's not good enough. =). God's ways and thoughts are vastly beyond what we can imagine and His ability beyond what we can hope for. Therefore, I cannot help but think that we just don't grasp how amazing our heaven-citizenship is/will be. 

6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, ⁷ in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2:6-7

He's raised me up so that He can show what??? Incomparable. Riches of His grace.

Just when will He be showing us? In the coming ages. 

Most of us find it refreshing when someone holds open the door for us when our arms are overloaded. Yet, how much greater are God's acts of kindness to us! He will continue to show His grace to us for all of eternity. He deeply desires me (even when I wake up not really feeling "in love" with Him). He wants me. He wants to love on me for... ever and ever after. 

He's an active God. He actively creates, and recreates. He brings grace and beauty to ashes. He gives life to bones. He saves from death. He went through great lengths to seek ME - AND YOU - out in the crowd. (Squeal with delight, girl. He loves and chose YOU!!!) He spent much patience and blood to draw me tenderly toward Him. His eyes are continually loving toward me. His mighty arm is ready to catch me, to support me, and to uphold me at all times. (He's so big and strong that He doesn't need to use two. ha!)

Abba God, Thank You so much for loving me in spite of the ugliness that daily rears its beastly head inside of me. Thank You for giving me choices, even I choose poorly. I can't imagine life without your words which speak truth into my innermost being. Give me courage to fight each morning against discouragement and doubt. Give me the determination to persevere so that I can stand firm even when I feel weak. I do believe, help me in my unbelief. May YOU be glorified in my weakness and be seen by others in my life. In Jesus' name. 

Do you remember what He has done?

Ps 107:43 keeps coming to mind, often when I’m struggling with Abba’s seemingly slow answer to my prayers.  You can read it here, in 4 translations.  That’s just like my Abba. He reminds me of hard truths when I feel weak and unable to do anything about a situation. It used to frustrate me. Ok, so it still often does. 

I’m starting to gradually learn that He does this in kindness. He extends His strong arms toward me, looking into my soul’s eyes with tender kindness. He offers me a yoke that is easier, a burden that’s light. He asks me to trust Him to carry my burdens, which I wasn’t shouldering well to begin with. He beckons me to focus on HIM instead of whatever burdens me. He longs for me to turn my eyes, my heart, and my mind solely toward Him. He reminds me that He alone

Is the way, the truth, and the life…

He brought me into an intimate relationship with Abba through Jesus, and He will lead me to the land of Fully Living (where nothing can touch my joy or peace). He teaches me what it means to abide – rest, trust – so that He can do the lasting work of creating fruit and answering prayers (as only He can).

He reminds me of what He’s done for me individually, and what He has already done for those I care about. 

He teaches me to remember… and rest in His ability.

Abba God, thank You for Jesus and the gentle teaching He offers through the Holy Spirit. Thank You for the imagery in Scripture which helps me to understand truth. I’m so glad You are patient and kind toward me. Help me to remember what You have done throughout history, from creation until now, and to remember that You are still at work. You are faithful and hear my prayers. Thank You so much for being with me, for going ahead of me, for surrounding me with great care and kindness.  Give me courage today to believe that You will never stop fighting or being faithful. Give me courage to pray for the lost, that they will have this understanding, too. Lastly, I ask that You give me courage to keep praying for what you lay on my heart. In Jesus’ name…