Focus and Follow

Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1,2 (New King James Version)

I can so easily hold on to the weights and sin that ensnare me and hinder progress. I can also stop running and allow my attention and energies to be directed toward something or someone other than Jesus. He is not only the author and finisher of my faith, but He is the example of my faith. Focus on Him and follow Him are the imperatives for my life. As I do that I will more readily detect the ruts and pitfalls of the path I walk.

Most of the time, it is my mindset and what I choose to dwell upon that causes me the most discouragement, difficulty, and defeat. If I do not purposefully align myself with truth and resist the temptation to think on harmful thoughts, I run into trouble rather than run with endurance. For me, early detection and taking appropriate action are the keys to victory. All it takes is one unguarded, unchallenged thought to slow my progress and get me off course. I cannot afford to allow access to any thought that would distract or destroy me. It has happened recently and it will happen today if I do not heed the warning and advice of today’s passage.

There are things I need to be free of and things I need to be focused on in order to run the race well. It was not an easy race for Jesus and it will certainly not be an easy race for me. There will be things to endure and things to despise but I must keep the goals ever before me. The joy of knowing those goals will one day be realize is what is meant to carry me through each day.

What are those goals? Being transformed into the image of Christ. Knowing God. Complete freedom in areas I battle. Eventually, Heaven. This is a journey of progress and each day affords me numerous opportunities to gain insight, wisdom, discernment, and correction. Complete perfection will not be mine until I am in Heaven, but that does not mean there will be no incredible victories here on Earth. Each day brings me that much closer to those victories. My mantra must be, “Eyes on Him!”

Father, keep teaching me the discipline of focusing on You. Help me to see the distractions early on and to walk in determined victory amidst those distractions. Amen.

Healer - Kari Jobe
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RvIEJ_PmqJ8&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Who I Really Need

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1 (King James Version)


Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation. Isaiah 12:2 (King James Version)

Today is a day when I just want to crawl into the truth of who God is. David and Isaiah are both telling me where to take any inner turmoil. God is using their words to probe my heart. He is asking, “What are you looking for? What do you need?” No matter what I tell Him, no matter what I say, His response is always the same. “I am your refuge. I am your strength, I am your help, I am your salvation, I am your song!”

All of my attempts to find what I am looking for in external sources are met with His words. He is not being mean, but rather is doing the most loving, beneficial act toward me. He is actually answering a prayer I voiced several years ago. I saw another person’s walk with Him and wanted to know Him in the same way. I wanted to stand with a confidence that can only be found in Him. I wanted reliance that was aimed at Him. I wanted to live every day of my life out of an intimate relationship with Him. I did not know all that would entail in order to make it a reality in my own life, but He knew!

He knew it would require the removal of all my external props. He knew it would involve taking me out of my comfort zones. He knew it would necessitate learning to cry on His shoulder, take my heart aches to Him, and allow Him to search me thoroughly. He knew I would have to face my own skepticisms and suspicions about His ability to meet my deepest needs. He knew I would have to learn to transfer all of my dependency off my idols and on to Him. And He knew none of those things would come naturally or easily to me. But His knowledge is matched with His patience.

I am learning maturity in Christ does not mean I no longer struggle. It means I know where to take the struggles. At any given moment, as my needs arise, I turn to Him.

Father, life hurts. It is full of disappointment that often leaves me with a sadness inside. I bring it to You again. I need You alone. Amen.

There is None Like You - Lenny LeBlanc
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_N-JK9iZcrg&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Full Disclosure

My flesh and my heart fail; but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalm 73:26 (New King James Version)

Knowing the truth about myself and the truth about God is a prerequisite for growth and development in the Christian life. As long as I live deceived or misinformed about either I will fail to mature in my faith and experience transformation at any level. If I am not careful I will make the mistake of trying to present to God what I KNOW He wants my life to be like rather than what I presently am. God is not into appearances whereby I try to appear to be more than I am. He wants authenticity, transparency, and honesty. Those are the attributes I need to harness as I come into His presence. Within an atmosphere of openness I must also learn the strength and freedom that comes from acknowledgement. Not only acknowledgement of my reality but acknowledgement of all that God is as well.

David knew the power of truth telling prayers. He made it a practice of stating a truth about himself and then followed it up with the truth about God. Today’s verse is an example of that. In essence he was saying, “I am weak, but You, O God, are my strength.” It was an “I am, You are” conversation. There are times God does the same thing. They are found in His statements of “I am the shepherd, you are the sheep. I am the vine, you are the branches. I am the potter, you are the clay.”

I have not always seen the necessity or benefits of such prayers. I now sense and accept His invitation to approach Him with Psalm 73:26 type prayers. They may sound somewhat like this…”Father, I have been wounded, You are my healer. I am empty, You are my filler. I am unsure, You are my teacher. I am lonely, You are my companion. I am in need, You are my supplier.” It is not long before I feel an internal shift and a radical change in my demeanor. When that happens praise erupts. There really is no God like our God.

As I learn there are no limits to what I can bring to Him, say to Him, and admit to Him my prayers take on an intimacy and depth God and I both delight in.

Father, Keep teaching me how to approach You in new ways. I thrive under the shadow of Your wings. Amen.

Psalm 23 - Kathy Troccoli
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NVYh63ZF_Vo

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Still Under Construction

Then the same Sheshbazzar came and laid the foundation of the house of God which is in Jerusalem; but from that time even until now it has been under construction, and it is not finished. Ezra 5:16 (New King James Version)

Due to opposition, the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem had ceased for a time. Formerly, the king of Persia had ordered it to be rebuilt and it was to be funded out of his own treasury. When a new king came on the scene, a false report led to his ordering the temple work to cease. Subsequently it did cease until that order was reversed. It was reversed when he saw that in truth his predecessor had given the original order. Prior to that discovery, a letter had been sent to him and it included a report on the temple work….the foundation was laid, “but from that time even until now it has been under construction, and it is not finished.”

When I read that phrase I instantly thought of my life as a Christian. The foundation was laid in Christ. All that would follow would be built upon it and it is more than adequate to sustain me. But I am still under construction…..I am still not finished. If I fail to see that or fail to understand that the construction will continue throughout my entire life, I will place undo pressure upon myself to reach a finished product. Discouragement will set in as I see the many things that still must be done.

This morning I am resting in some truths. God is the Master Designer and Builder of my faith. He has His eye and hand on me as He molds, prunes, and forms me into the image of His Son. He has assured me that what He starts He completes. His plans and purposes will be fulfilled through His working. Yet the aspects of the journey are often subject to my obedience, submission, and cooperation. As I make choices throughout each day, consequences will result. Lessons to be learned may have to be extended due to my own attitude and attention. Despite even that, I know that I know He will get the job done. He will take this lump of clay, this sheep, this fragile vessel, this marred person and will one day present me faultless, blameless, and complete before His throne. I look forward to that day and I joy in the thought!

Father, indeed the foundation has been laid! Thank you for continuing what you started in me. I praise You for what You will accomplish. Amen.

Potter's Hand - Hillsong
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xDAITgJXO1I

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

What Was Lacking

Praise the LORD. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. Psalm 106:1 (New International Version)

Yesterday was a day of feeling unsettled, uneasy, unsatisfied, and unhappy. I spent a better part of the day discouraged, disheartened, and in an internal seething mode. I felt it and others noticed it. It did not take long for God to begin to reveal the problem to me. It wasn’t my circumstances but rather my heart response to those circumstances. My focus had shifted from a God centeredness to negatively viewing life. Miserable does not begin to describe it. I knew I had lost my joy, my purpose, and my thankfulness. The wrong motives of my heart became prominent and began to steer me in wrong directions. Physically I felt drained and emotionally I felt weak.

God’s first word to me was to begin thanking Him. I’ll admit the list was short at first. Not because there was not an abundance of things to be thankful for but because my heart was in need of priming much like a water source that has not been active for a while. If given enough time, callousness can set in with grumbling, murmuring, and complaining and the softening of the calloused heart and mind takes time as well. The “softening” followed two significant steps. First, I had to spend time admitting my own heart attitudes that were wrong. Second, I spent time with some women in a Bible study last night who helped redirect my focus on to God. They encouraged me through their words and examples to let go of what I wanted and embrace what God wanted.

This morning, the thanks flows easily from my heart and mouth. With that thanks comes a change of perspective, a relinquishment of “rights”, a joy, a strength, and a sense of well being. If yesterday was a dungeon of sorts, today is an open field of wonder! I find it interesting that the only things that really changed were my attitude, my thoughts, my focus, and my desires. Yet, those changes make everything else look and feel completely different.

Living my life with an unthankful spirit is much harder than living with a thankful one. Hence, Jesus’ words ring in my ears, “My yoke is easy and my burden is light.” What He places on me in the way of kingdom principles is definitely more conducive than what He helped me take off and give to Him.

Father, You have once again given me beauty for ashes, strength for fear, and gladness for sorrow. Your exchanges never cease to amaze me! Amen.

Give Thanks - Don Moen
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBpv-ZzcQD8

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Reality Check

Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him out of them all. Psalm 34:19 (New King James Version)

I have been spending some time in the Psalms this morning. I didn’t want to leave! The Lord was reminding me through David’s words that life is full of trouble and He is the only true Deliverer. While difficulties marked his path, praise flowed from his lips. Countless times he asked God to forgive, deliver, preserve, protect, and defend him. His was not an easy life but he knew where to take every uneasy aspect of it. He knew how to pour his heart out to God. When circumstances over whelmed him, enemies attacked him, fear consumed him, sin ruled him, friends abandoned him, and afflictions accompanied him, he brought it all to the throne of grace and allowed God to bring peace, rest, and delight to his soul.

When I started on this journey six years ago, I had a lot of misconceptions. I thought I could get to the point where the hurts and hassles of life would no longer affect me. I thought it was possible to live without pain, disappointment, loneliness, and emptiness. And when that did not happen, I struggled with thoughts of failure and wondered what I was doing wrong. I looked at individuals whom I THOUGHT had nothing but good days, who handled every situation correctly, and experienced only joy, satisfaction, and victory every step of the way. I desperately tried to accomplish the same thing in my own life and couldn’t do it. How naïve I was! There are no such people on this planet.

My premise was all wrong. Life is full of trouble and I am the cause and recipient of some of it. We all are! As long as we possess a sin nature and live in a fallen world we are going to experience heartache and failure in one form or another. But that does not mean that is all we will experience. In the midst of any storm, God is the anchor of our soul. He is our deliverer, healer, restorer, and constant companion. He longs to strengthen us, dry our tears, comfort our hearts, and renew our spirit. But that will not happen if we remain at arms length. It starts by acknowledging the truth about ourselves and our circumstances as well as the truth about God. Pour out our hearts to Him, YES, but also proclaim His attributes! Psalm 18 is an excellent example of how to do just that.

I invite others to learn what I am learning. The abundant Christian life does not mean the absence of sin, heartache, and trouble. It means knowing Who to take it all to. It means learning to cry on God’s shoulder, seek His counsel, and follow His heart.

Father, I am between the Garden and Heaven therefore I need Your grace, mercy, strength, direction, and protection every step of the way. My needs are constant therefore my dependency upon You must be constant as well. Amen.

Help Me God - Kathy Troccoli
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-wL7KWO8Ys

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

In Such a Time as This

In the time when thou shalt be broken by the seas in the depths of the waters thy merchandise and all thy company in the midst of thee shall fall. Ezekiel 27:34 (King James Version)

Tyrus was a city of great wealth and importance in Old Testament times. Many nations where part of her commerce on the sea. Ezekiel 27 lists many who bought and sold merchandise from her and helped to build her into quite an empire of enterprise. But Ezekiel prophesied of a day when all her notoriety and importance would fall along with all who brought her that notoriety and importance.

Have you ever come to such a place of brokenness? All that you have looked to for identity, affirmation, acceptance, and significance has fallen and you are left with the reality of who you are in your aloneness and vulnerability? How many people and possessions would have to be removed from your life before reality would fill you with profound fear? What would it take to shake you to the very core of yourself and leave you wondering if you are going to actually survive the crash?

One author stated the ease with which we live our lives when all is going well and we are surrounded by the support of loving people in our life. But is that still the case when the props are removed and the sources of security are no longer in place? What does our internal world look like when we are forced to see wherein our security and significance is rooted? Who and what of this life would have to be removed before we could honestly say, “God is my All in all! He is my Everything!”

Disappointment eventually marks my path whenever my expectations, longings, and desires are directed toward anyone but God. He warns of the dangers and emptiness that result when I turn from the Fount of living waters and look to broken cisterns to quench the thirst of my soul. He knows the hindrances to the very wholeness and healing I long for. He has even brought an example across my path of one who at one time mirrored my own experiences. Her present freedom in Christ has fueled a spark of hope for me.

I take seriously the fact that some may be reading this who sense the truth of these words for themselves. They too have seen the futility of allowing anything or anyone besides God to be their Source of life. May each of us stand before Him today in honesty and openness. He offers healing and wholeness. Will we dare to receive it?

Father, You alone know the depths of my struggle and brokenness. I have experienced many things with You and realize afresh the experiences are not over. Teach me how to accept Your extravagant gifts of wholeness and healing. Amen.

Above All - Michael W. Smith
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AjYiEyu8Si8

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

This Too Shall Pass

And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes,: and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain; for the former things are passed away. Revelation 21:4 (King James Version)

It is hard to imagine that one day we will no longer experience the brokenness, heartaches, and difficulties of life. The book of James tells me this life is just a vapor (a brief moment) compared with eternity. So no matter what I am facing I have the assurance it is temporary. I long for the day when today’s verse becomes my never ending reality.

Realize that whatever hurt, disappointment, or loss you are experiencing at the moment can also be slipped into this verse. It will one day be gone! I would invite each of us to make a list of the things that will not be following us into Heaven. Mine would include broken relationships, loneliness, fear, grief, strongholds, wrong mindsets, neediness, looking to people for what only God can give me, emptiness, and personal failures. I think of the many attitudes that will pass away: anger, envy, jealousy, competition, pride, lust, greediness, self centeredness, unforgiveness, and unthankfulness. My mouth will never again speak something that is untrue, unkind, or unnecessary. Not one painful thing from this life will be able to touch me in Heaven.

I need this reminder as I go through my day. When life gets hard I can look at the problem and say with absolute confidence, “THIS too shall pass!” I can rest in the fact that it will not always be like this. I look forward to the day when I am whole and nothing is in need of being fixed. I look forward to the day when all relationships will be as they should be. No cold shoulders, no rejection, no abandonment, and no walking away.

It has been said, for the believer, this life is the closest they will come to hell and for the non believer this life is the closest they will come to Heaven. I am saddened by the fact that what I have shared in today’s devotional is not for everyone. Today’s verse will not be their experience. Eternity for some will be just the opposite. One author’s words struck me when he viewed hell with a sign as you entered which said, “Abandon all hope.” I wish that upon no one! Jesus offers forgiveness of sin, relationship with God, and eternal life in Heaven. I pray that each person reading these thoughts this morning has accepted Him as Savior or soon will do so.

Father, I long for Heaven when my faith will become sight. When You wipe away all that makes life difficult in this world. I rejoice in knowing I will be with You and all those who know You. Even so come, Lord Jesus! Amen.

I Can Only Imagine - Mercy Me
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0xwzItqYmII

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

What God Can Do With One

When he was but one I called him, then I blessed him and multiplied him. Isaiah 51:2 (New American Standard Bible)

God took one solitary man by the name of Abraham and brought forth an entire nation. Like the stars in the sky and the sand on the seashores the number of that nation is vast and innumerable. Jesus took one little boy’s lunch and fed over 5,000 people with it. One widow in the days of Elisha saw a jar of oil fill many containers. One widow in Elijah’s day saw a little oil and flour provide meals for her, her son, and Elijah for 3 years until a famine had ended.

What do these miraculous stories all have in common? God took people and objects far beyond their original capabilities. He was able to get more mileage out of each than what was formerly thought possible. When God touches a life, an event, a circumstance, or an object He has no limits. No boundaries. No inabilities.

I have heard it said that sin will take you further than you want to go, cost you more than you want to pay, and hold you longer than you want to stay. But God is able to operate in much the same way. God can take you further than you hoped to go, reward you more than you hoped to receive, and use you in more ways than you ever dreamed.

When He looks at us, He does not see just one individual. He sees potential, opportunities, and dreams. He did not stop multiplying and blessing when the Bible was completed. He still takes what we hold in our hands and goes beyond our own design and purpose.

One aspect of faith is believing God can do ANYTHING! When His hand touches a life the results are amazing. He still desires to be fully involved in our life. He still takes objects in His hands and multiplies what is there. Today I am challenged to see what God will take farther than I thought possible. He knows my personal fears and apprehensions even better than I do. He knows my intimate thoughts, dreams, and ambitions. He knows and yet none of that stops Him from working in and through me. He simply reminds me that His plans and purposes are higher than my own and His ability to carry them out extends beyond my ability to always see it. He daily invites me to trust Him and fix my eyes on Him rather than on the limitations, hindrances, and impossibilities that so often dance across the floor of my imagination. He will not give up on me and throw up His hands in exasperation. His investment and involvement in my life is never in vain.

Father, You are still able to do so much more than I can imagine. Fulfill your dreams for me. Amen.

Take My Life (And Let It Be) - Chris Tomlin
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V0Byp7aK2DA

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

He Is Not a Withholder

For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD will give grace and glory; no good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly. O LORD of hosts, blessed is the man who trusts in You! Psalm 84:11,12 (New King James Version)

A statement that Beth Moore once said is continually being brought home to me. She said the area that continues to trouble us and cause us distress is the very place we are distrusting God. I find there may be many areas I readily trust God in with abandon. No question mark lines the halls of those corridors. It is exclamation points galore! Yet I am in agreement with what she said regarding the areas of turmoil. When it is all said and done the bottom line really does come down to trust in God’s ability to take me through storms, trials, and difficulties, and to bring me out on the other side having experienced today’s passage.

I looked at today’s verses and God pinpointed the very phrase that was meant for my eyes and heart. NO GOOD THING WILL HE WITHHOLD. There are many things I may want but whether I receive them or not, His word remains. Whether I experience a loss, rejection, or sorrow in no way is He withholding a good thing from me. He remains my sun and shield. He faithfully gives grace and glory. He is the author and finisher of my faith and although I may not always understand what He is doing I can stand in confidence that it is being done out of love with right motives and extraordinary purpose.

Any trial I may face only comes upon me when God knows that He has fully prepared me for it. I loved something else Beth Moore said along these lines. “The very area where you are most tempted to distrust God is the very place He has most chosen to trust you. Maybe all along He was saying, I knew you could. I know what’s in you. Because I am in you and I am your all surpassing power in a jar of clay. Watch me show off from the inside out.”

As I step into a new day it will be better for me to take my eyes off the people who might disappointment me and the circumstances that hurt me at the core, and look to see where God Himself is working in the deepest parts of me. He has many tools He uses to mold and shape me. He does not allow me to pick and choose which tools He will use. If He did that, I would never select the ones that would be the most beneficial. The trust comes in to play as I once again see Him as the potter and myself as the clay. He knows what He is doing and why He is doing it. I yield.

Father, be the One to consume me. Let my attention, passion, and heart be centered on You. Amen.

Be Still and Know That He is God - Steven Curtis Chapman
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C01lLxEo3xM&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Triggers

The women sang as they played, and said, "Saul has slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands." Then Saul became very angry, for this saying displeased him; and… Saul looked at David with suspicion from that day on. 1 Samuel 18:7-9 (New American Standard Bible)

Saul’s anger erupted out of a heart filled with the need for prominence, not only in his kingdom but in the hearts and minds of his people. His anger led to suspicion and eventually attempted murder. But what was it that brought on his anger? What was the trigger that flipped his switch of negative, destructive emotions? Today’s verse reveals this time it was women who were praising David’s accomplishments above Saul’s. Unfortunately, Saul never conquered his jealousy or anger.

Last night, the Lord and I went on a hunt….a trigger hunt. My area of concern was not anger but rather negative perceptions about people. I knew those perceptions where wrong and they were robbing me of joy and enjoyment of significant relationships. I knew they stemmed from heart issues and wrong thinking. But the Lord wanted me to understand the necessity of seeing what triggered the thoughts. What was it that could take me from good moments to thinking the worst of another individual? What were my triggers? Within minutes the answer came. For me, the door to my perceptions is opened with the key of disappointment. God wanted me to see the pattern.

There are times I place expectations on people and when those expectations are not forth coming I experience disappointment. The disappointment triggers the negative perceptions which stirs up a sea of emotions in me. If not properly dealt with the result can range from withdrawal to out right anger. But the disappointment is two-fold. While I am disappointed in the unmet expectations, I am also disappointed in myself for having the expectations to start with. God is letting me know there is a better way to live.

First, place my expectations and hope in Him. People will never be able to give me all that I want, in the amount that I want it, and when I want it. They are not meant to. But when disappointment does mark my path it is imperative that I learn to identify the problem and take the unmet needs to God rather than allow perceptions to consume me. This is the formation of a spiritual muscle for me but it will only develop and grow as I exercise it. In order for that to take place, God will continue to allow me to experience the “triggers” in order to practice the truth He has revealed. As long as I cooperate with Him it will work and change will come. I lean on Him and learn from Him.

Father, freedom comes through acknowledgement, confession, and cooperation with You. Keep me coming back to You for the answers to all of my questions. Amen.

Set Me Free - Casting Crowns
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sio1WyIxGy4&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Without Warning

Then Pharaoh took off his signet ring from his hand and put it on Joseph’s hand, and clothed him in garments of fine linen and put the gold necklace around his neck. He had him ride in his second chariot; and they proclaimed before him, “Bow the knee!” And he set him over all the land of Egypt. Genesis 41:42, 43 (New American Standard Bible)

Joseph’s life-changing promotion came without announcement or anticipation. There is no hint in Scripture that Joseph knew THAT morning that he would go from dwelling in a prison to being set over the land of Egypt. No idea that he would exchange prison clothes for a signet ring, fine linen garments, and a gold chain. No thought that he would go from walking prison corridors to riding in Pharaoh’s second chariot through the streets of Egypt. Sure he had being given vivid dreams as a youth, but he was unaware how those dreams would begin to transpire when he woke up THAT morning. Joseph had experienced promotions and demotions several times in his 13 years in Egypt but each was merely setting the stage for God’s grand design!

Bible character after Bible character experienced this same thing. God’s intervention in their particular situation often came without warning and yet when it came, events changed dramatically and quickly. Every healing, every deliverance, every advancement, every move, every supply, every successful battle, every miracle came on a day no one realized it would come. Oh the joy when they were witnesses to it all!

This morning I am looking back over my life and realizing the same is true for me. My own life changing moments came without warning but they were right on time in God’s sovereign plan. Sometimes it happens and I am not fully aware a change has taken place until I have walked a few days in the change. At other times I KNOW something has happened that will forever be life altering. This truth gives me hope when I face difficulties, see areas of personal bondage, long for change in my internal world. I stand in anticipation that on any given day I could wake up to a day that will include freedom and wholeness in areas that for now are still a part of my life. As long as I live on this earth, I have days ahead that will include God’s intervention in my life. So do you! I rejoice ahead of time in all that God still plans to do in each of our lives.

Father, this may be a day of continued learning and preparation or it may be a day of deliverance. Either way, I choose to take hold of Your hand and trust you! Amen.

In His Time - Maranatha Singers
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KGAGUNFVGsY

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

What He Sees

Every man’s way is right in his own eyes, but the LORD weighs the hearts. Proverbs 21:2 (New American Standard Bible)

The true test of any action is not what we think or see but rather what God considers. He goes beyond the surface of our behavior and examines the motives that are driving us to act. Whether it be our relationships with others, our performance at work, our carrying out of responsibilities, or our many multi tasking ventures, His litmus test is always our hearts. Our heart can mislead and deceive us but it can never escape God’s perfect examination.

Since God is the one who knows my heart, it is imperative that I continually go to Him and ask Him to reveal to me what He is seeing. Even with the best of intentions I can be prone to live with self deception if I am not seeking to know what is crystal clear to Him. There are questions I can take to Him and He will graciously answer them. Here are just a few: Why am I about to say that? Why am I taking on this new responsibility? Why am I going in this direction? What is driving me to do the things I am doing?

Along with questions I can also seek clear understanding. Show me where pride is present. Show me where I am seeking praise and applause. Show me where I am trying to derive value, meaning, and significance from relationships and situations. Show me where revenge, hurt, and anger may be involved.

Each of us wants to believe that our motives are pure and our actions are what they appear to be. Heart examination is painful at times because it exposes the truth that can be uncomfortable to admit. But the reason for such an exercise is not to bring shame or cause us to throw up our hands in resignation and defeat. The reason is so that God can begin to purify us and allow us to act out of the right motives. He desires us to align our hearts with His and bring forth actions that result from our relationship with Him.

There is much I can put my mind and hands to today. There are things I will say and tasks I will perform both in private as well as in the public arena of life. Ultimately it won’t be the opinions of myself or others that matter. It will be what God determines. I cannot hide or disguise any part of myself with Him. As my view of Him continues to be corrected, that brings about a sense of safety rather than dread. May I delight in the fact that His eye sees it all!

Father, open my eyes to the real me. Let me see what is behind every word and deed. Bring me to the heart of every matter. Amen.

Empty Me - Jeremy Camp
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KW4aCmI_uiw&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Coming Continually

Be my strong refuge, to which I may resort continually; You have given the commandment to save me, for You are my rock and my fortress. Psalm 71:3 (New King James Version)

God is not someone I have chance meetings with or include in my morning hours only. Relationship with Him must be daily….moment by moment. I pay a high price when it is not that way. Thinking I can meet with Him once in the day and then be sustained on that is like a person who thinks she can take in one good breath of air and live off that for the next 24 hours. Impossible! There is too much going on in my life to not run to Him on a continual basis.

Too often I have waded through issues, faced frustrations, fought off temptations, felt the effects of loneliness, and floundered with unmet needs without crying out to Him and asking for help. By the time I turned to Him I was warn out physically, emotionally, and spiritually. What I failed to realize was how “off” my timing was. At the first sign of struggle I needed to resort to Him. He longs to be a fortress for me. How exactly does that work? Let’s get practical.

I work in an education warehouse and spend a good part of my day repetitious work. My mind is continually dwelling on many things. As I am working and thinking I may be struck with a strong sense of sadness over something. It not only hits me emotionally but I can actually feel a physical manifestation of it. There is a pressure that arises in my chest….right in the center. If I don’t run to God with it I will be pulled down by it. So I have learned to go to Him IMMEDIATELY. My prayer might sound something like, “Father, I feel the sadness. Come fill the place of emptiness in me with Yourself. Let your joy be my strength. I need You.” That’s it! It is not long but it is effective! That which weighed heavy on my mind and was felt so profoundly in my chest leaves and in its place is a peace that is profound. Prayer does not have to be complicated to be powerful. I may use Scripture or I may just use the principles of Scripture. The point is, He hears me when I call and He answers every time.

At first, I was surprised that this worked so quickly. But the surprise has been replaced by anticipation and expectation. Today, there will be many times this will take place. I joy in the fact that I already know what I will do each and every time!

Father, I marvel at Your availability and power. There is no time limit or removal of the welcome mat. I gladly come to You continually! Amen.

Hungry (Falling on My Knees) - Darlene Zschech
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FYlpIdEyzX4&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Emotionally Driven

Therefore, when Saul saw that he behaved very wisely, he was afraid of him. 1 Samuel 18:15 (New King James Version)

When Saul saw David’s popularity increase, jealousy ruled. When he saw David behave in wise ways, fear ruled. When he knew David was to be the next king of Israel, hatred ruled. My Bible notes refer to Saul as one having “schizophrenic behavior.” Those in close contact with him would have witnesses his highs and lows to a point of never being sure of what to expect from him. Today, we would say, “they walked on egg shells.”

We are not told if those who knew him best knew what set him off each time his emotions led him to act out in anger or why he was so determined to destroy David. As I read the accounts, I have to ask myself if Saul himself even knew the root of his actions and attitudes. I ponder whether or not he ever wanted to change. Did he lose sleep? Did he make resolves to “do better next time?” Did he realize he needed help? Or did he live with attitude of justification and declaration that what he was doing was okay? Did he have people in his life who ever tried to get him to see the truth about himself? When the first few episodes took place, did he see that he had a problem?

For any who experience mood swings and inconsistent behavior, it is easy to relate with Saul. As I read the accounts of his life in Scripture, I find myself knowing how it feels to be ruled by emotions and feelings. While I do not act out in the same way, I act out none the less! My default mode is usually sullenness and silence when I experience insecurity, jealousy, rejection, or disappointment. I am talkative by nature and love being part of conversations and laughter. But when I am hit with a downward pull, that all changes. Those who are around me are never sure what to do with me or to me. I am sure that prayers go up but along with that they must experience frustration, concern, and a sense of bewilderment.

As I think back to the most recent occurrence I know one thing….I do not want my life to end up like Saul’s did…..no change, no freedom, no true living. It won’t as long as I see and acknowledge the truth and continually seek God’s help and healing in my life. It requires being honest with God, others, and myself. It requires obedience in that which I know must be said and done. Some would say I am too hard on myself. I would say I am in need of change.

Father, the cycle is vicious and the times of failure daunting. Help me to walk in victory in those areas that have been filled with defeat thus far. Show me what to do and give me the grace and desire to do it. Amen.

Wonderful Merciful Savior - Selah
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gQzrqmcwg8o&feature=PlayList&p=2715BD1BF5489D23&playnext_from=PL&index=0&playnext=1

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

He Hasn't Changed

And Asa cried out to the LORD his God, and said, “LORD, it is nothing for You to help, whether with many or with those who have no power; help us, O LORD our God, for we rest on You, and in Your name we go against this multitude. O LORD, You are our God; do not let man prevail against You!” 2 Chronicles 14:11 (New King James Version)

For ten years Asa reigned as king over Judah. He did what was good and right in God’s eyes, removed the idols and places of false worship from the land, directed the people to seek and obey God, and put up walls of protection around his city. He ruled his life and his kingdom under God’s authority and with God’s authority. So when an enemy nation came against him, he knew enough to cry out to God and seek His help.

He knew how to flesh out the words of Proverbs 3:5,6 “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” He was facing an army that was nearly twice his size. One million strong to his 680,000. His prayer was extravagant, his trust was complete, His expectancy was great, and His deliverance was miraculous. The very next verse says it all. “So the LORD smote the Ethiopians before Asa, and before Judah; and the Ethiopians fled.”

How often do we read the accounts in Scripture and fail to see God as being just as powerful or just as involved in our own life? We might be thinking something like, “Sure, God, You divided the Red Sea, turned water into wine, brought water out of the rock, raised the dead, gave sight to the blind, fed millions with manna EVERY day for 40 years, etc….but my problem is bigger!” While we may not come right out and say it, we often limit our limitless God. Or we think we have to help God out. Asa knew no such mindset. He brought His problem to God and placed it in His hands.

God is still in the business of delivering His people! He will still move heaven and earth to come to our aid. He has not run out of power, ideas, or creativity. His hands are not tied, His heart is not closed, and His arms are not folded. He is available and willing to help us. He has given us countless examples in Scripture to strengthen our faith, broaden our view of Him, and implement into our prayers. He specializes in the very things that seem impossible and daunting. Like Asa, we can approach Him with confidence and trust. His name, His Word, and His help are still available to us on a daily basis. Will we dare to take Him up on His offer to come to Him, cry out to Him, confide in Him, and call on Him?

Father, whether I come to You for wisdom, companionship, direction, or help, You remain faithful, available, and active. What an awesome God You are! Amen!

How Great Is Our God - Chris Tomlin
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jjxPG_mRHDs&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

My Help Comes From the Lord

My help comes from the LORD, Who made heaven and earth. Psalm 121:2 (New King James Version)

The One who created the universe is my Helper! I am trying to wrap my mind around that thought. I can recall the many people who have helped me in one way or another during the course of my life but who compares to the One who made everything?! Whatever I face today, I can proclaim with David the fact that my help comes from the LORD. David faced giants, enemies, failures, fears, and betrayal and did so with God as his helper. The same help and Helper is available to me every moment of every day!

Wherever I stand in need…my help comes from the LORD. Whatever the task I am given….my help comes from the LORD. Whoever I am called upon to love….my help comes from the LORD. Whenever and whoever I need to forgive…my help comes from the LORD. When my strength fails me…my help comes from the LORD. When I grow weary with the journey…my help comes from the LORD. When the questions of my heart pile up….my help comes from the LORD. When I am spent…my help comes from the LORD. When life gets uncomfortable or messy…my help comes from the LORD. When circumstances overwhelm me…my help comes from the LORD. When loneliness, sorrow, or sickness mark my path…my help comes from the LORD. When I am in need of internal healing….my help comes from the LORD. When losses are experienced…my help comes from the LORD.

There is nothing I stand in need of that surpasses the creation of heaven and earth. I will never need help and find God unable to help. My Helper divided the Red Sea, defeated vast armies, and brought water from a rock. He gave sight to the blind and hearing to the deaf, healed lepers and lame ones, calmed the storms at sea, walked on water, drove out demons, and raised the dead. In light of that, is anything too hard for Him? Absolutely not!

I can think of individuals with whom I would be thrilled to have their help. Their counsel, assistance, and companionship would be invaluable. How much greater that the King of kings and Lord of lords comes to my aid and rescue. He is not distant, unavailable, unmoved, or unaware of my needs or deaf to my cries for help. May I go through every day fully realizing my help comes from the LORD, Who made heaven and earth, and He will move heaven and earth to give me His help.

Father, I feel so cared for, safe, and protected. I stand in awe of You and in need of You. Because of You, I am never helpless! Amen.

I Will Lift My Eyes - Bebo Norman
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FtAjrNqEsoM&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Every False Way

From Your precepts I get understanding; therefore I hate every false way. Psalm 119:104 (New American Standard Bible)

The teachings, truths, principles, commands, and statutes of God’s Word are what will bring discernment, instruction, and right perspectives. Apart from that, I am left on my own to wade through lies, deceptions, disappointment, and falsehood. Instead of freedom and strength, the way of life becomes a tangled web of confusion and failure.

When I choose to believe a lie or wrong perception I am following a false way. When I choose to think the worst of another person I am following a false way. When I choose to let the enemy define and describe life to me I am following a false way. When I choose to replace what God says with what I think I am following a false way. When I put anything or anyone in place of God in my life I am following a false way. When I make choices opposite of what God wants for me I am following a false way. When I allow my emotions to rule me instead of God’s Spirit, I am following a false way. When I look for answers and direction apart from God and the Bible, I am following a false way.

As far as David was concerned, false ways were to be hated! Why? They are destructive, misleading, dangerous, and toxic to our whole being. I can attest to the truth of that because I fight a daily battle to choose between false ways and God’s ways. When I lose the battles (as was the case yesterday) I am devastated and discouraged. When I win the battles (by God’s grace) I am ecstatic! So why, when I know those outcomes do I continue to follow false ways at times? Why in the middle of a battle do I not choose the right path?

I am pondering those questions and more this evening. Like the Apostle Paul I find myself not doing what I want to do and doing what I don’t want to do too much of the time. Like the disciples, my spirit is willing but my flesh is weak. I want the victory and yet I fail. I want others to see Christ in me but the ones who know me best often see the worst. I want to live out of the truths I have taken in over the years but they often seem stuck in my head without making it to my heart.

So where do I start at this point? Scripture! Prayer! Confession! I must go back to what I know to be true and reconnect with my loving heavenly Father. I must stop allowing fear to control me. I must open myself up to trust the ones God has brought into my life as helpers. I must choose to take one more step forward.

Father, I keep coming to you with failure, brokenness, and tears. You keep receiving me with open arms. I am in amazement at such mercy and grace. Amen.

Beautiful One - Tim Hughes
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p9m8MjI-mhU&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

When the Ending Has Not Been Written Yet

Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry. 2 Timothy 4:11 (New International Version)

If one is not familiar with Scripture, they might read this verse and miss the dynamics of what Paul is saying. He is requesting Mark to be brought to him and he is referring to him as being helpful to him. Paul and Mark’s history is what makes this so amazing!

Mark (John Mark) had accompanied Paul on a missionary journey but had deserted him part way through. Later on when Barnabas wanted John Mark to join them for another missionary journey, Paul refused to allow that to happen. The contention was so sharp between them that they actually parted company. Respect was gone. Trust was gone. Friendship and fellowship were gone. Today’s verse tells us the end of the story but much had to transpire before that end could be written.

John Mark had some maturing and growing to do. Paul had some forgiveness and second chances to extend. It all took time and God graciously worked in both their hearts and lives. He reunited them in ministry and heart.

This account came to mind as I once again found myself thinking back to a severed relationship. I am not at the end of the story yet. I don’t see what the outcome looks like. I have no guarantee reconciliation of any kind will transpire in this life. While Paul and John Mark were brought back together we are not told of a reconciliation between Barnabas and Paul. My story could have either ending. Hope mingles with heartache and uncertainty.

What do I do in the meantime while I am waiting to see the outcome? Trust God to work in both our hearts and lives. Keep focused on what He has me doing at the present. Allow Him to change and mature me in my faith. Keep exchanging the sadness for gratitude for all God did through this person. Acknowledge the truth that my life’s story is bigger than the chapter that entailed the relationship I now miss. Believe that if reconciliation takes place in this life God will fully prepare us for it. Above all, know that after this life there will be an eternity of renewed friendships!

Father, You have comforted me today with Your Word and Your presence. I have learned once again to bring hurt and disappointment to You. I renew my commitment to trust You with the end of my story….fragile heart and all. Amen.

For Good
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzrGFQysfYU

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

From His Hands to Ours

Lord our God, we have gathered all this to build your Temple for worship to you. But everything has come from you; everything belongs to you. 1 Chronicles 29:16 (New Century Version)

Do we understand what David understood? Everything we have, everything we accomplish, everything we build in life is due to the fact that God has supplied what we needed. It has all come from His hands and even when it is placed in our hands it is still His. Whether it is our possessions, our personalities, our abilities, our intellect, our talent, our strengths, our relationships, our jobs, or our positions in life, it all comes from His hands. Do we get it? Do we see that we are merely stewards who have been entrusted during our brief life?

What am I building for God’s glory with that which He has given me? How am I using God’s materials for His kingdom work? This life is my opportunity in which I can build. This life is the time frame in which I have to work.

When do I begin the work? If I am not careful, wise, and discerning, I can somehow get the idea that I must wait until I have it all together. Wait for the healing. Wait for the wholeness. Wait for the weaknesses to be conquered. If I wait for any one of those to transpire I will do no work in this life time. I stand in awe of the fact that God uses imperfect, undeveloped, incomplete, and awkward ones such as myself. Serving Him and ministering to others is part of the journey not a proclamation that I have arrived.

There are times when I feel shaky on my journey. My thinking gets skewed and I mistakenly think it is time to step away for awhile from ministering through devotionals. I question my walk with God and wonder if I need more growth….more victory. It is then that God reminds me how often He has used weak vessels, broken lives, and hurting hearts to reach out to others. Along with all the things listed above, the circumstances of my life are also given to me by God and are intended to be used for Him.

Now is not the time to retreat. Now is not the time to take a rest. Now is not the time to stop working. I believe with all my heart that I am in a season that entails writing for the sake of others and the glory of God. As long as He places the words in my mind and draws those words out through my computer I will work and I will give Him the honor, glory, credit, and praise.

Father, Your call on my life has been made clearer tonight. Your hands hold me and they also pour into me the materials needed to serve You. May I work for You out of devotion, commitment, and love. Amen.

With All I Am - Hillsong
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FMrAafe7Mns&feature=related

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

No Place for Review

Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Psalm 32:1 (New King James Version)

Have you ever experienced it? That sense of forgiveness and that all is well between yourself and God or yourself and another individual? No more strained relationship. No more uneasiness or inability to look another person in the eye. No more knot in the pit of your stomach. That is exactly what transpires when I have genuinely sought forgiveness and graciously received it. It is what happened last night when I sat down with two people who mean a lot to me, who I had disappointed and hurt, who I asked forgiveness of, and who readily extended it. I left their home with no more weight on my shoulders or heart.

Yet amazingly enough, when I turned in for the evening the scenario of my wrong actions came flooding back to my mind and regret began to pound in my heart once again. Just as amazingly though the Lord began to speak to me in the privacy of my thoughts. He reminded me of the forgiveness I had been given and He urged me to live in the joy of that forgiveness rather than in the regret of wrong choices. He reminded me of Paul’s words in Philippians 3:13 that says to forget those things which are behind. He let me know that the quickest way to be robbed of joy and peace is to continue to replay what has been forgiven. He said in essence, “Your mind does not belong there anymore. Revel in the forgiveness. You don’t have to review the past any longer. I am not. They are not. You cannot!”

Reviewing past mistakes, sins, and failures has been a pattern for me throughout my life. A pattern that God wants broken. A pattern I too want broken. The breaking of it is starting with a simple of exercise. When the thoughts come back (which they have on countless times this morning) I simply remind myself I have been forgiven. With that reminder the scene that is playing across the walls of my mind vanishes. What comes in its place? The living room scene where two people extended the forgiveness I sought and the scene at Calvary where the price of sin was paid in full. When my mind reviews those scenes, the joy returns and with it, the ability to move forward.

Father, when I hesitate to embrace forgiveness I weaken my own ability to extend it to others. I want the joy and freedom that comes from receiving with abandon such a gracious gift. Amen.

What Sin? - Morgan Cryar
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3Wdzzx6-f4

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

Finding My Confidence

Do not be afraid of sudden fear nor of the onslaught of the wicked when it comes; for the LORD will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being caught. Proverbs 3:25, 26 (New American Standard Bible)

Fear takes hold of us when we think about a future event, perceive the outcome of that event, and react to what we believe is going to take place. We don’t fear the past because we already know what happened. We don’t fear the present because it is right in front of us. We fear the unknown. Within that context I have come to see my two greatest fears are of loss and failure. Loss of anything or anyone I hold dear. Failure to live differently than I have in the past. The fear is often accompanied by feelings of darkness, despair, despondency, and discouragement. It is like having a wet blanket wrapped tightly around my mind and soul.

The question becomes in who or what is my confidence resting? If it is in myself, another person, things not changing, or any number of things I can control or desire to control, that confidence will be shaky and unreliable at best. The people and possessions in my life come with no guarantees and I often want guarantees. I want to know that I can count on the important things and relationships not changing. There is no peace and joy in such wishing. It brings about a restlessness of thoughts and emotions. It depletes me of energy and enthusiasm. So on whom should I place my confidence, trust, and reliance? God!

Scripture is full of doing just that. Today’s verse speaks of God being my confidence and protection. Confidence comes as I see God as my Helper (Hebrews 13:6), as the Finisher of the work He has started in me (Philippians 1:6), as the Supplier of all my needs (Philippians 4:19), as the Worker-outer of all things for my good (Romans 8:28), as the One who will never leave me or forsake me (Hebrews 13:5).

On a practical level, I can be confident that God will wisely and lovingly intersect my world with people whom He will use to help me on my journey. Fear of them leaving is over-come by recognizing Who really determines the times and seasons of each relationship. I can be confident that God is willing and able to give me victory in areas of my life that have only known defeat. Fear of failure is overcome by acknowledging that my past does not define me…God does!

Father, where I walk in doubt and fear birth in me a boldness and confidence in You! Amen.

My Life Is In You, Lord - Hillsong
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F0M0NALW7EM&feature=PlayList&p=B72B181C3BB024FD&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=49

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.