Coming to My Aid

And He said, "Come!" And Peter got out of the boat, and walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But seeing the wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, "Lord, save me!" Immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and took hold of him, and said to him, "You of little faith, why did you doubt?" Matthew 14:29-31 (New American Standard Bible)

I find it interesting what Peter did not do when fear filled his heart and he started to sink. He did not attempt to swim back to the boat he had stepped out of. He did not attempt to return to the position of walking on the water. He did not consult the other disciples. He did not give up. He did not beat himself up for failing to stay on top of things. He did however direct his attention back toward Jesus and asked for His help. That cry for help did not fall on deaf ears. Jesus’ first response was to take hold of him to lift him up and then He spoke the necessary words of instruction and correction to him.

Peter’s plight was progressive. He took his eyes off Jesus and fixed them on his circumstances. He drew wrong conclusions about his ability and God’s availability to keep him from sinking. He sunk in fear rather than walk in faith. Yet he knew enough to ask for help from the One who was present and poised to give him help.

I relate all too well with Peter. I can be impulsive and full of adventure one minute only to be filled with fear and spiral down the next. I can too easily allow circumstances and emotions to get the best of me. My answer? Do what Peter did and cry out to Jesus for help with full assurance that He will come to my aid.

I am learning how easily I can turn away from the One who invites me to abide in Him, come to Him, rest in Him, trust Him, and follow Him. Staying focused is a challenge for me and when I allow my mind to wander and heart to stray I sink. When I beat myself up for past failures I sink. When the opinions of others take precedence over God’s opinion I sink. When I fail to bring issues to God I sink. When I refuse to release my grip on that which needs to go I sink. But just as quickly as I sink I can be rescued, revived, and restored. At no point does God say, “Stay there!” At no time does He turn a deaf ear to my voice. When I want His help He gives it with an outstretched hand and heart of love. Then and only then does He begin to instruct me with words of correction. May today be a day for wave walking!

Father, it is what You do AFTER I fail that astounds me. Keep correcting the distortions I have of You. Keep showing me the truth about Yourself and allow it to change me. Amen.

Help Me, God - Kathy Troccoli
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sksuqT1lCUY

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

For Those in Need

Then it happened that as Jesus was reclining at the table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and were dining with Jesus and His disciples. When the Pharisees saw this, they said to His disciples, "Why is your Teacher eating with the tax collectors and sinners?" But when Jesus heard this, He said, "It is not those who are healthy who need a physician, but those who are sick. Matthew 9:10-12 (New American Standard Bible)

It is interesting to see the different aspects and responses of the individuals mentioned in this passage. Tax collectors and sinners were drawn to Jesus and Jesus welcomed them. The Pharisees viewed them and Jesus with condemnation and disgust. Jesus spoke the truth. He came for those who needed Him. Everyone needs Him but not everyone sees their need of Him. Those who see their need come to Him. Those who do not see their need of Him remain at a distance. How we view our condition will determine which direction we will head.

There are two steps necessary to find help and healing for our areas of weakness as well as forgiveness for our sins. The first step is seeing the truth about ourselves and the second step is seeing the truth about God’s view of us. I have spent most of my Christian life attempting to put my best foot forward in hopes that failures and weaknesses would not be noticed. Admitting there was a problem was hard to do. I had hopes that within time things would just improve. What I didn’t realize was that anything I keep “hidden” keeps me in bondage.

God had to help me see that I was like the person coming to a support group not wanting to admit where I needed help. Thinking He wanted perfection made me want to deny my imperfections because of shame, embarrassment, and pride. More than outward sins it was the sins of my heart, hidden agendas, and buried motives that chained my soul. Yet, I struggled to openly and honestly come to the One who possessed the keys to freedom. I tried to play make believe and dress up with the One who not only created me but knew me thoroughly and loved me unconditionally.

His answer? “Come to Me.” When I see my imperfections. “Come to Me.” When I see my addictions. “Come to Me.” When I see that I am not what I should be or even what I want to be. “Come to Me.” When the worst of me has the best of me. “Come to Me.” In essence what He is saying is, “Be among the tax collectors and sinners rather than among the Pharisees. Dine with me rather than remain aloof.” I am learning to find my seat at His table.

Father, with You I am free to be me. Free to see the truth. Free to admit the truth. Free to be set free by the truth. Amen.

It Wasn't Easy - Cece Winans
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rVT9_ulYv2k&feature=related#sf

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

Estimation Limitations

Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you that this night, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” Peter said to Him, “Even if I have to die with You, I will not deny You!” And so said all the disciples. Matthew 26:34, 35 (New King James Version)

Peter’s estimation of his strengths and abilities was over-exaggerated. On the flip side of that, his perception of how circumstances would effect him were under estimated. Christ knew the truth about Peter…what he would do, what he could handle, and what he could not handle. Not once, but twice, He told Peter the truth about himself. Not once, but twice, Peter argued and saw himself as an exception to what Christ was saying. The day would come when Peter would in fact die for his faith and his Lord, but much would transpire between the two accounts. This conversation of “you will…I won’t” started Peter on a course of learning that God knew so much more than he did…even about himself.

I shared with a small study group last night that I struggle with wanting to do things that, so far, God has not allowed me to do. Worse yet, I watch as others are given the opportunities I long to have. Today’s passage gives me a perspective I have been missing. Like Peter, I can easily over- estimate my capabilities and under-estimate the effect certain circumstances could have on me….even if those circumstances fall within the realms of ministry.

God knows me through and through. He knows how easily I could be enamored with myself if given certain opportunities at this stage in my life. He knows how easily I could seek to derive value, affirmation, and worth from wrong sources. He knows how easily I could take my eyes off Him. Because of that knowledge, He is selective in what He chooses for me to do and where He chooses to send me. In other words, He knows what I can handle and what I cannot handle.

In the past, God’s keeping of doors closed left me feeling much like the child at the back of a classroom waving my hand wildly to be chosen only to be over looked. That is not the way He wants me to interpret things now. I have not been over looked. Neither am I unfavored, unnoticed, or unchosen. He chose me before the foundations of the world. He blessed me with all spiritual blessings. He sees every aspect of my life from beginning to ending both inside and out. He has plans and purposes for my life and has promised to fulfill them.

So what do I do when the things I want to do are not what I get to do …at least not now? I trust God. He knows best and He knows me best. I don’t want to argue with Him or ignore Him. I want to know Him and watch as the knowing Him changes me. I also want to see Him as a Father who is not squelching my dreams but rather birthing His own dreams for me.

Father, I have to learn what Peter learned…..I don’t know myself as well as You know me. May I no longer estimate things from my vantage point. Amen.

You're Still God - Kathy Troccoli
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CvclzwpAMxg&feature=related

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

Knowing the Truth About Ourselves

But Peter said to Him, "Even though all may fall away because of You, I will never fall away." Jesus said to him, "Truly I say to you that this very night, before a rooster crows, you will deny Me three times." Peter said to Him, "Even if I have to die with You, I will not deny You." All the disciples said the same thing too. Matthew 26:33-35 (New American Standard Bible)

Like Peter, we can often state, in a moment of strength, lofty thoughts that come back to bite us in weak moments. Peter had plans to stick with the Lord no matter what. He spoke with passion…runaway passion. He truly meant what he said but he said it grossly underestimating the strength of his own weaknesses. In his stronger moment, he could not imagine that the circumstances of life could have the effect on him of which Jesus warned him. Peter learned the hard way of just how human he was. Everything he said would happen, didn’t, and everything he said wouldn’t happen, did. I believe this incident forever changed his view of how vulnerable he was in this world and where his true strength had to lie.

I am learning to watch myself in my strong moments. When life is going well and I am owning an attitude that I can handle certain things I can often forget how close I am to stumbling. As scenarios play over and over again in my life and I see the effects remaining the same I am taking notice. If I keep repeating the same thing and getting the same painful result it is time I make a decision to avoid that particular action.

I have two weaknesses that come to mind and I am learning to guard myself better when it comes to them. There are certain foods that will trigger an eating binge with me. Partaking of them always leads to the same result. Hence, I KNOW if I start the result will not be pretty. No matter how strong I may feel and how sure I am that I can control those foods, the truth of the matter is I can’t. I am wise to avoid them.

There are also areas in relationships that tend to bring about the same results for me. There are certain people who hold too strong of a position in my life. If I contact them via emails, phone calls, or letters, and do not hear back from them I am crushed. As much as I don’t want this to be the case, my perceptions run wild and negativity sets in toward them and myself. In strong moments I may think I can handle not hearing from them, but I make a mistake when I allow those thoughts to persuade me to try one more contact. The scenario has played out too many times. My head may tell me the legitimate reasons for their lack of communication but my emotions spiral. So knowing this, the wise thing for me to do is resist the temptation to be in contact. I have had to see the truth of my weakness during times when I don’t even feel weak. Knowing myself is an important part of walking in victory.

Father, help me to see the truth about what controls me. If the result will be over indulgence or emotional suicide, help me to avoid the pitfall. I want to walk in wisdom and freedom. Amen.

I Surrender All - Vineyard
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7x2IpLSfqp8

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

Living With Blindness

Let them alone, they are blind guides of the blind. And if a blind man guides a blind man, both will fall into a pit. Matthew 15:14 (New American Standard Bible)

These words were spoken in relationship to the Pharisees of Jesus’ day. There were many things they could not see when it came to Jesus and His teachings. Their view of Scripture was filtered through their own mindset of traditions. How tragic when man’s opinion and preference is put on equal footing with the Word of God. What is it like to be one of the blind being guided by the blind?

For three decades I lived my Christian life out of an inability to freely approach God’s Word and see what it said for myself. When it came to personal standards, much of my “list” was made up of what others said a Christian should and shouldn’t be doing. I am not talking about things that are clearly spelled out in Scripture. Any time you see the words “Thou shalt not” in front of something in the Bible there should be no question as to the necessity to implement that into your life. Who would question the fact that a person should not kill, steal, lie, commit sexual sins, etc….? While some churches have ceased to even mention clear cut biblical commands from the pulpits, praise God for those who still do!

My problem was never with those areas being taught. Yet I did struggle to realize that the gray issues of our society were not to be held on equal footing with direct commands from the Bible. The gray issues for me were things being taught by the church that were not spelled out in Scripture. They usually fell under the heading of scriptural principles when in actuality were the opinions and preferences of people. Each church has its own set of acceptable and unacceptable behavior for Christians. My list would probably look different from yours.

I am not saying that standards are wrong to have. Standards are necessary! The problem is not in having standards. The problem is using those standards as a measuring tool for ones spiritual and heart condition. None could have standards higher than the Pharisees of Jesus’ day and yet their hearts were not connected to God in any way, shape or form.

The day I learned to see my list as coming from people instead of God’s Word was the day my list took a drastic blow! It had become my basis of spirituality and God was letting me know it was not accurate. Spirituality needed to come from my heart and a direct relationship with God instead of aligning myself with the traditions of men. The Bible had to become my place from which doctrine, life style, and choices stemmed. May I never again allow others to take the responsibility of establishing a list of do’s and don’ts for me. May I possess standards that are for my good and God’s glory.

Father, there is a blindness among Your family. Please give me eyes to see the truth, ears to hear Your voice, and a heart to follow You. Amen.

Open the Eyes of My Heart - Michael W. Smith
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vnqb7Vn4AEE&feature=related

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

What He Whispers In My Ear

What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs. Matthew 10:27 (New International Version)

It is my privilege and delight each morning to carry out the words of this verse. God has been gentle and persistent in leading me in the writing of devotionals. It began several years ago with a simple prayer of “Show me Your heart in Scripture.” It was my cry to Him to remove the obstacles that prevented me from feasting on His Word and walking away knowing I had received a meal intended for me that day! What were those obstacles? Struggling to see the positive verses as being meant for me and failing to see that what He spoke thousands of years ago was intended for me as well. When those two obstacles were removed, the living Word came alive to me! It began to change the way I viewed God and His involvement in my life. It helped me see that each time I opened His Word there was something specific He wanted to tell me at that moment. But His desire went beyond my personal intake. He wanted to whisper things to me that I would in turn proclaim to others.

It started when I simply took a notebook and began writing out just a paragraph of what He had shown me that morning. Months later as the entries grew in length, He nudged me to put them on the computer. A short time later He nudged me to start sending them to friends as email devotionals. At that time I would write them out by hand, copy them onto the computer, and send them. Months later I detected themes I wish I had followed. That is when God let me know I was no longer to write them out first. When I saw the verse that was meant for me, I was to simply go to the computer and write what He brought to mind. I cannot tell you the number of times He has changed the whole direction of my thinking by the time I send the email. Eventually I saw what He was doing. The devotionals were not meant to simply let others know what God was showing me. They were meant to let others see what God was showing them! God has assured me someone out there needs to hear the same thing I have heard. It becomes an anointed time at both the sending and receiving end of the email.

For any who say in the privacy of their own thoughts, “I get nothing out of Scripture when I read it. It is more duty than delight for me to read it. I have no consistent time in His Word,” I assure you I have been there! For decades! And I attest to the fact it does not have to be that way. Dare to get honest with God. Tell Him the very thoughts you harbor and ask Him to open your eyes to Himself in His Word. Ask Him to bring His Word to life for you! He has things to tell you and things to whisper in your ear. When that happens you will be amazed at what you end up sharing with others.

Father, Your whispers to me are too good not to share! I treasure what You tell me and I delight to pass it on! Amen.

Ancient Words - Michael W. Smith
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-UNPxkJU5IA

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

The Inward Truth

But the things that proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and those defile the man. For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornication, thefts, false witness, slanders. Matthew 15:18,19 (New American Standard Bible)

The Pharisees of Jesus’ day not only wrapped themselves in cloaks of man made laws and traditions but sought to bind others as well. They lived 100% of their lives out of external performance. They went to great lengths to perfect the outside of their existence. That is on what they hinged their walk with God. Right actions, right words, right standards equaled righteousness and right standing with God….to them. But Jesus summed their lives up with the words of Isaiah when He said, “This people honors Me with their lips, but their heart is far away from Me. But in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the precepts of men.”

They had a system for worship that depended on living up to their standards. A defiled person could not worship God, as far as they were concerned. And defilement came with something as small as not washing your hands before you ate. This was one of many beliefs they held to that said the outside of my life affects my internal world and thus affects my relationship with God. They had it backwards!

Jesus wanted them (and us) to know defilement comes from the heart. Every word we speak, every action we take, every sin we commit comes from our heart. Our heart is the very essence of who we are. It is the center of our being….our command post if you will. We are driven by our own lusts, desires, and depravity. The thoughts behind the actions Jesus listed speak volumes to me. Jesus put no difference between hateful hearts and murder, lustful thoughts and adulteries and fornication, covetousness and theft, evil thoughts and lies.

His point? If a person understands where the actions are coming from they will begin to understand where they need God’s transforming touch on their life. In myself, I can change my behavior but it will simply be like changing my clothes. True and lasting change comes through a changed heart and a changed heart is what God desires for me. How? Through the work of His Spirit in me and through the renewing of my mind. When? The moment I acknowledge my problem and turn to Him for the solution.

Father, I have lived as deceived as the Pharisees. It is only before You and through You that I can finally experience a changed heart. Amen.

The Power of Your Love - Hillsong
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5PLAWhr1o1A

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

To Serve or Be Served

Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many. Matthew 20:28 (New American Standard Bible)

In the past week, I have pondered this verse many times. Jesus’ characteristic of looking to serve rather than be served does not come to me naturally. Left on my own, I fall short of living my life with others in mind. When I enter a room I tend to look to people to encourage me, make me feel welcome, show me love, and give me attention, rather than vice versa. My expectations of them are high and the disappointment comes often when those expectations are not met. Seeing this aspect in me is not easy or comfortable and neither is admitting it to others. Yet, I am convinced I do not stand alone. I am convinced others struggle with “me-ism” as much as I do…..focused more on self than on others. I am also convinced I am not alone in my desire to live my life in a different way.

I asked God to show me what I can start doing to bring about change. He quickly brought today’s verse to mind then He proceeded to give me practical ways to carry it out. His instructions to me? When I am with people, start looking for ways to make them feel welcome and wanted with good eye contact, smiles, listening when they talk, showing interest in them, drawing them into the conversations. In other words, start doing for others what I have had done for me in the past. Those same things that touch my heart and make me feel loved are the things I must now demonstrate to others.

If these are done solely in my own strength they will not last. But if they are done as a result of my daily walk with God, they will flourish. If they are done with the help of His Spirit working in me, they will bear fruit. If they are done by His ability coming through me, they will make a difference.

As I come to God and ask Him to show me things I can begin doing, I am acutely aware of my need for a changed heart. He is the true heart changer and I rejoice that with my cooperation that change will take place. Change of desires, change of expectations, change of what and who I am focused on, change of my purpose in relationships, and change in the motives behind my actions. This is not behavior modification or self reformation but rather a fresh realization of how dependent I need to be upon God in order for real and lasting change to come about.

Father, I have spent too many years trying and failing to live differently. I now look to You to do what I cannot do on my own. Amen.

Make Me a Servant - Maranatha Singers
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0rznoe3zKxM&feature=related

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

Weak but Willing

Keep watching and praying that you may not enter into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. Matthew 26:41 (New American Standard Bible)

I see an acknowledgement being made by Jesus that is speaking volumes to me. The scene is unfolding in the garden of Gethsemane where Jesus is soon to be arrested and eventually crucified. The anticipation of what lay ahead (particularly His Father’s forsaking) was excruciatingly painful. Although accompanied by His disciples, their sleeping left Him humanly alone. Yet He sees and acknowledges their desire even in the midst of their failure to stay awake with Him. Their spirits were willing (eagerly ready) but that willingness was not yet matched by their actions. How I need that reminder in the midst of my own shortcomings and failures.

My desire for God and His ways can often surpass the actual realization in my life. I am resting in the fact that God not only sees the willingness but He is working to develop in me the things I presently lack. This gives me comfort and encouragement in the times when I still attempt to balance looking to people versus looking to God for specific needs in my life. It gives me assurance to know that God will continue to show me what He is really like in order to continue to fix my distorted views and opinions. It spurs me on when the very things I desire to do for Him are presently not possible.

He knows my weaknesses and frailties far better than anyone else and yet He is still in my corner watching each step that I take. He knows when victories will be mine. He knows when what I struggle with will no longer be a struggle. He knows the amount of time it will take to flesh out what my heart and spirit long for and desire. I rejoice that He is God and will move Heaven and Earth to bring about growth, progress, and change that takes me from willingness to experience.

I don’t know how many more lessons lie ahead for me to learn. Today may be a day I turn a huge corner and take yet another step toward obedience and victory. I never know how close I am to personal transformation in any area of my life. But God knows and smiles as I move closer to that moment. I simply must take His hand, tune my ear to hear His voice, and act on what He tells me. Again, it is not about perfection. It is about relationship with Him!

Father, continue the work You began in me. Bless any willingness You see in me and develop me into the one You created me to be. Your ways and Your workings far exceed my own ideas. Thank you for what You will accomplish in me today. Amen.

His Strength is Perfect ~ Steven Curtis Chapman
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LC_lld_vUCY

I welcome your questions and comments to any devotional thoughts. I am honored and delighted to share my journey with you and privileged to hear of yours.

In Need Again

Then Peter came and said to Him, "Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Up to seven times?" Jesus said to him, "I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.” Matthew 18:21, 22 (New American Standard Bible)

It is one thing to consider Peter’s question when you are in need of forgiving someone. It is quite another when you realize you are the one standing in need of forgiveness on a continual basis. Wanting to kick yourself for repeated patterns of behavior and seeing little change. Knowing that the person you are asking forgiveness from AGAIN is one who has seen the worst in you and still sees it. Not always sure of the response you will get, it is easy to walk with a sense of shame and embarrassment. Eye contact is minimal as is conversation. It is one of the most uncomfortable positions in which to be.

This morning I am asking myself why so many of us as believers walk with a sense of condemnation after we have failed when Scripture clearly states there is no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus. For me, there are numerous reasons. My actions remind me of how opposite of God I really am. I cringe at imperfection and I have so much of it to cringe at! Repeated offenses remind me that change is slow in coming and at times I doubt it will ever come. Insecurities come to the surface and work to convince me that I have now given another person every reason to stop loving me and I fear they will. Ultimately, I know I don’t deserve another chance. I wonder how many of these thoughts plagued the prodigal son on his trip back home. Fearful he would receive the kind of reception his brother eventually gave him and not at all expecting what his father lavished on him. I know those thoughts too well.

It is times like this when God’s forgiveness or anyone else’s forgiveness is too extravagant to grasp or hope for. When the sin stains seem too numerous and the reputation too damaged. When the stench of our sin nature still lingers in the air.

Today will be a day of learning how to not only ask for forgiveness but how to receive it. How to feel safe in it. How to feel cleansed and refreshed by it. How to sense everything is okay once again. That is what I am in need of and that is what I seek.

Father, when You see the sins of my heart and actions I cringe. But when others see those things I cower. Restore to me the joy of my salvation within the corridors of forgiveness. 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.

Asking the Right Question

And they came to Him and woke Him, saying, "Save us, Lord; we are perishing!" He said to them, "Why are you afraid, you men of little faith?" Then He got up and rebuked the winds and the sea, and it became perfectly calm. The men were amazed, and said, "What kind of a man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey Him?" Matthew 8:25-27 (New American Standard Bible)

Jesus’ question has always intrigued me and at times confused me. In the midst of a storm which produced waves big enough to cover the ship they were in, He is awoken by disciples who are sure they are going to die! He does not ask what the problem is (He already knows). Instead He gets to the heart of the problem….their fear and amount of faith. The fear was bigger than their faith. Jesus was not denying the reality of the storm but rather, He was helping them see that they had a bigger problem than the storm….their perception of what that storm would do to them and their belief that Jesus was unaware of their plight. Both produced a tremendous amount of fear. Their greatest fear was death even though the Giver and Sustainer of life was in their midst!

I am learning to ask myself questions that get to the heart of the problem as well. When life gets messy and my internal world shifts into a storm of emotions, it is time for me to reevaluate my thought process. If I am sad, there is a reason. If I feel hopeless, there is a reason. If I feel frustrated, there is a reason. I am responding to circumstances and drawing faulty conclusions based more on my emotions and feelings than on faith and truth. I am good at it too!

I will give the disciples credit, they went to Jesus with their fear….they had no other choice. I am learning how to do that. Learning to see truth in the light of Scripture and allowing that truth to rule me instead of the emotions. It may be as simple as being reminded that God has not abandoned me, that I am cared for, that His plans and purposes for my life will be fulfilled. It may be as simple as admitting I really don’t know what others are thinking or what the end of the story is for me. It may be as simple as voicing the truth out loud in order to silence the voices within. The moment I do so, the calming of the “storm” happens and like the disciples, I am AMAZED! Amazed that it works. Amazed that it has taken me so many years to learn. Amazed that truth is more powerful than my perceptions. Amazed that this is changing the way I live my life…..all areas of my life.

In this life, I will not reach a point whereby the storms of life do not have an effect on me…no more than I will reach a point whereby I could be cut and not bleed. What amazes me is that the effect no longer has to last!

Father, I am in awe of You and Your ways. May You never cease to amaze me and may I never cease to praise You! Amen.

The Voice of Truth - Casting Crowns
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VaVg0cWkgAw

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

One Day at a Time

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. Matthew 6:34 (New King James Version)

Worry and the thoughts of what lies ahead can become distracting, discouraging, and daunting to the process of our journey. For some it may be the futuristic worries of finances, health, or security. Twelve step programs have it right. Their mantra is often, “One day at a time” and THAT day is the one being presently lived!

While I do not struggle with worries over physical issues, I recently caught myself being worried about the breaking of addictions and how I would be able to continue to walk in freedom for the rest of my life. I was becoming overwhelmed until God reminded me that I do not have to think about the “rest of my life” but rather just focus on His provision and power TODAY. That simple redirection of thought put my mind and heart at ease.

“Today” is a manageable amount of time. I have been through some changes and made some changes in my life and God’s instruction to me is to walk in obedience and cooperation with Him moment by moment for victory. Will there be setbacks and sidetracks? Absolutely! Will there be times when what seemed complete suddenly seems to come unraveled? Yes! Those are a given due to the fact that I am human and live in a fallen world. God’s reminder to me is to realize anew that it is all a process….a journey. He alone knows the full scope and end result of where He is leading me. He alone provides the where with all that empowers me to make right choices and live victoriously. He alone brings about the wholeness and fullness He has promised.

My responsibility is to do what He tells me to do and when I fail to quickly confess, repent, and embrace His forgiveness. It is not about perfection! It is about being in relationship with Him and walking in dependence upon Him. The problems come when I allow any thing or any one to come between me and His will and His ways. He is my Source! He is my Provider! He is my Necessity! Those are my “starting point” phrases that are meant to place my hands on the plow and feet on the path once again.

I cannot afford to think beyond today when it comes to living out His plan and purpose for me. The deliverance I seek is not to be found in a “moment” but rather in a life time of connecting to my Abba Father!

Father, thank you for giving me a life time to get it right! Amen.

One Day at a Time - Christy Lane
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ExFtojY4Y0&feature=related

He is wooing you from the jaws of distress to a spacious place free from restriction, to the comfort of your table laden with choice food. Job 36:16

A Private vs. Public Display

Whenever you fast, do not put on a gloomy face as the hypocrites do, for they neglect their appearance so that they will be noticed by men when they are fasting. Truly I say to you, they have their reward in full. But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face so that your fasting will not be noticed by men, but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you. Matthew 6:16-18 (New American Standard Bible)

The Pharisees of Jesus’ day wanted to be seen and noticed by others. Matthew 6 gives three instances where their public performance was exposed. Their righteous acts, benevolence toward the poor, and fasting were on display for all to see….they made sure of it. Sometimes it was with trumpets and fanfare. Sometimes it was with their countenance and appearance. Something in them needed the attention. Something in them needed others to know what they were doing. What should have been private acts and known only to God and themselves became the drama on their stage of life.

Yesterday, I asked God about my own tendencies toward public displays. I asked Him why it was that I often need others to know when I am struggling with emotional issues….to know I am sad, fearful, or distraught. It is not that I necessarily tell them with my words as much as show them with a gloomy face, slumped shoulders, and noticeable silence. Something in me was choosing this route of behavior and putting a stop to it would not come without God’s revelation.

God proceeded to take me down a trail of reasoning that astounded me. It went as such. I show the sadness so sympathy and attention from others will be evoked. It makes me feel cared for and loved. The need for what I deem as love drives my behavior. It is just one aspect of trying to fill the holes in my soul with what I can derive from others rather than what I can receive from my Father. Once I saw the reason, God graciously gave me a step of obedience to take in order to begin correcting my behavior. His words to me were, “Pam, you must begin practicing a disposition that does not let others know you are having a bad day. In your smile, voice, and body language you must display My joy and peace that resides in you. Those simple changes will be what I use to actually change your heart and mind. This is the beginning of you losing your bent toward living out of your neediness. Trust Me and obey.” With joy I am here to tell you that it works! I was amazed that when my face and voice changed it lead to internal changes. It is a kingdom principle I am seeing for the first time and I want to embrace it!

With that said, I do want to clarify that there are times when it is appropriate to show sadness. The loss of a loved one, the loss of a job, and true devastations of life are some of those times. The personal example I gave had more to do with showing sadness as a way to simply feed off the sympathy of others for the sake of emotions. Of THAT I seek to be free!

Father, I praise You for showing me the things I need to know. How I have lived my life up to this point is merely a shadow of how You would have me live it. Keep removing the hindrances to the abundant life! Amen.

There is Joy in the Lord - Cheri Keaggy
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MMhTFzzvIs4

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

Leaving the Boat for the Water

When the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, "It is a ghost!" And they cried out in fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, "Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid." Peter said to Him, "Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water." And He said, "Come!" And Peter got out of the boat, and walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But seeing the wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, "Lord, save me!" Immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and took hold of him, and said to him, "You of little faith, why did you doubt?" When they got into the boat, the wind stopped. Matthew 14:26-32 (New American Standard Bible)

Rather than in clear sailing with sunny skies, it is during a storm in the night that Peter asked Jesus to call him out of the safety of his boat to come to Him on the water. Not calm water but rather choppy waves. Jesus calls. Peter comes. As long as he kept his eyes on Jesus and moved toward Him he was fine. Once his eyes spotted the turbulence of his surroundings he began to sink. His next move is what captures my attention this morning. He didn’t start swimming for the boat he left but rather he cried out to Jesus. “Save me” was the extent of his prayer. Jesus’ response was immediate. They returned to the boat, a word about doubting was given, and the wind ceased. All was well once again…..until the next trial, trouble, or tribulation.

So like my life. Moments of anticipated adventure and desire for freedom can cause me to make radical moves in my Christian life. So much wanting to “walk on the water” with Jesus and so ready to “leave the boat” I have been securely riding in. He calls, I come, and then the same scenario plays out. The storms of life hit. The uncertainty of my steps grows. The questions of whether or not I can actually continue to stay afloat abound. For too many years, I swam back to the boat. Back to what felt safe. Back to what I use to depend upon. I had never quite made it to the place of voicing Peter’s prayer. Of crying out to Jesus. Of seeking the safety of His arms. I always turned back to the boat. Back to what I knew. Back to what was familiar.

Last week was another trip outside the boat. At the time, no storm was raging. Just a desire to be free of needing others to help me, hold me, and heal me. Just a desire to make Jesus my Source and the center of my life. Just a desire to have the kind of relationship with Him that I saw in others and wanted for myself. Each day the waters have had ripples and the waves have begun to splash. They are bigger today than they were last week at this time. The difference this time is that I am no longer looking back at the boat or desiring to return to what I am used to. This time I keep crying out to Jesus and His response is immediate and the walk continues.

Father, I need You. Settle my heart in the midst of what feels like approaching storms. I don’t want the safety of the boat. I want You. Amen.

The Voice of Truth - Casting Crowns
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUtCV2tvmeA&feature=related

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

A Right Response

Then Jesus said to His disciples, If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me. Matthew 16:24 (New American Standard Bible)

Feeling like I have lost control of a number of areas in my life can often cause me to go into a default mode in my thinking and behavior. This morning found me wondering how to get back on track with my life without taking the usual routes. Fearful of failing I often want to back away from anything that would challenge me or expose my imperfections. So in the midst of such thinking I asked God to help me begin to break the cycle of destructive thought patterns and conduct. To do something besides spiral into a pit and pull away from this week’s activities. He brought today’s verse to mind and then He honed in on one phrase within this verse…..”he must deny himself.”

At first glance it meant to tell myself no. When I want to eat in an unhealthy and unbalanced way I must say no. When I want to dwell on negative, condemning thoughts I must say no. When I want to stay to myself and avoid others I must say no. When I want to procrastinate on cleaning my house or balancing my checkbook I must say no. When I want to make someone besides God my primary source I must say no. When I want to spiral into a dark pit I must say no. When I want to do anything that would hinder or halt my spiritual, physical, mental, emotional, or social growth I must say no. Then finding the opposite of all those temptations is what I must say yes to.

I knew saying no was part of denying myself but I needed a bigger picture. A more profound definition to grab a hold of. A tool I often use to find the original meaning of a word is www.studylight.org. What I found there for the word deny is the very step I need to take and that I need to continue to take throughout today and into all of my tomorrows. Simply put, deny means “to forget one's self, lose sight of one's self and one's own interests.” In other words, get my eyes off myself and begin living outside of my default modes.

I will be the first to admit, this is a stretch for me. I am so use to dissecting my life, feelings, and thoughts until I am consumed by them. The end result is never peace but rather discord and confusion. It is no mistake that God chose to put denying oneself before taking up ones cross and following Him. It shows me where to start and which direction I am to head.

Father, at a time when I want to say yes to all that would be wrong for me, help me to say no and move forward in the direction You desire for me. With each no my voice will get louder and stronger. I trust You to increase the volume. Amen.

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

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

An Important Component

Bring forth fruit that is consistent with repentance [let your lives prove your change of heart]. Matthew 3:8 (Amplified Bible)


The Pharisees and Sadducees had come to John to be baptized. He knew that much of their attention was on outward appearance rather than inward transformation. It was all about the heart and if the heart was real the actions would follow. Change was the fruit, proof, and result of true repentance. John the Baptist spoke a lot about repentance. By it he meant having a change of thoughts, mind, and conduct as well as regretting ones sin. Without those, the apologies and asking for forgiveness become empty words. Our lack of change can often cheapen our words when it comes to seeking another’s forgiveness.

Some of us know all too well the trail of “I am sorry will you forgive me” that exists in our history. Some may want to respond, “Don’t tell me, SHOW me!” They desire more than verbal acknowledgment of what we have done. They want to see change for our sake as well as theirs.

God is challenging me with that thought today. Because words of sorrow over sin can flow so easily with a desire to have things back to “normal” He wants me to begin holding off on those words. Not because I am not sorry and not because others will not forgive, but because change is necessary. Not perfection but definitely progress. When the change is evident the words will be precious to both sides.

The time will come for a conversation of confession and the giving and receiving of forgiveness but God wants me to take some time to allow for change. Not behavior modification but real change. It is still about the heart because that is the driving force behind the actions. What are the changes? He has given me a rather short but specific list. Not because more changes are not necessary but because true change is His desired outcome. The empowerment to implement the changes will come from Him but the willingness and cooperation lies with me.

For once I am not squirming at the idea of obedience. I am poised with anticipation of what He will bring about through the obedience.

Father, help me to bring forth fruit that is consistent with my repentance. May my eventual words spring forth from a garden of change. Amen.

Change My Heart oh God
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cUjUvoynGMM&feature=related

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

What to do With the Expectations

But what did you go out to see? Matthew 11:8 (New American Standard Bible)

Jesus asked this question of the people in regards to John the Baptist. In other words, He asked them what it was they were expecting. For He knew that expectations can lead to disappointment when there is no fulfillment of initial thoughts.

We live in a world where our expectations run high. We have certain expectations of people, of marriage, of jobs, of children, of churches, of ventures, of ourselves, of life in general, and of God. Webster’s defines expectation as a looking forward to; anticipation; a looking for as due, proper, or necessary; prospect of future success, prosperity, etc… When what we hoped for does not come about, discouragement can set in, as well as anger, frustration, and a loss of hope. If an individual has had too many disappointments in their life they learn to close themselves off in hopes of avoiding future disappointments.

But that is no way to live! David had it right when he learned to make God his expectation. His hope! He knew the frailty and limitations of people….himself included. He knew there was a danger in placing strong hope and expectation in events, circumstances, and relationships.

Many times I find my expectations are built on the desire to have needs met. I look to certain people to make me feel good, encourage me, validate me, and accept me. While they may or may not come through for me, God wants to be my primary Source for all of it. As I allow Him to meet my deepest needs, I can then invest myself in the lives of others. He refers to Himself as a fountain of living water to let me know He is a continual supply for me. The frequency with which I come to Him is up to me.

I was born with the need for security, love, fulfillment, and satisfaction. There is nothing wrong with needing those things. The problem is that too often I am turning to the wrong sources to get those needs met. Every one of them is found in Christ! He promises to come through for me if I but ask!

Father, depravation is not necessary in Your kingdom. The answer is not to squelch the needs I have but to learn to bring them to You. Teach me how to drink my fill of You in order to quench the thirst in me. Amen.

My Life Is In You, Lord
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F0M0NALW7EM

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

Learning to Fight

But He turned and said to Peter, “Get behind Me, Satan! You are an offense to Me, for you are not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men.” Matthew 16:23 (New King James Version)

Although Christ’s words were spoken to Peter, Satan was the intended recipient of those words. We would do well to be as bold in our tone and terminology when addressing the enemy of our soul. Jesus had no trouble knowing who was really behind the rebuke Peter gave him, and we need to be just as wise to his workings in our lives as well.

It has taken me years to realize just how active the enemy and his minions are in my waking hours. Too often I failed to notice his finger prints and would simply attribute my troubles to living in a broken world and possessing a sinful nature. Little did I realize the things I was blaming my problems on were also his tools and he was proficient at using them. While certain words, thoughts, and actions may start with me, he is delighted to run with them once I let my guard down. I failed to see each one as darts in his hands.

What are the “darts” he uses in my life? Wrong perceptions, feelings of jealousy, condemning thoughts toward others or myself, fear of rejection, hopelessness, a sense of being unfulfilled and unsatisfied, longings for things I can’t have, idolatry, self-pity, insecurities, and emotions that take me down wrong trails. Today was the first day I began to see how much the enemy is involved in using them. How skilled he is at using them.

Once I saw what was happening (what has been happening) I got angry. Really angry, because I saw the damage he was doing with little resistance from me. That is when I began to call him on the carpet. I voiced the fact that he was a liar and that I no longer wanted to choose to believe his lies. I proclaimed the truth of Who I belonged to and who I was in Christ. Throughout the day, the least negative thought that came to mind was enough to bring the “Get behind me, Satan” phrase out of my mouth. He heard it a lot and he heard it often.

The results have been astounding! I have begun to live as a victor instead of a victim. I am learning I can be bold in Christ and I like that! It is the difference between taking control and being controlled. Will it continue to work as well tomorrow and the next day and the next? Definitely! I can’t wait to use the rest of the verse on him!

Father, I am learning to fight the enemy on Your terms and it is working. Keep me bold and keep me in tune with You. Amen.

Protector of My Soul - Maranatha Singers
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sj3mCYB5iqg

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

That Is What He Is Like

Then Peter came and said to Him, "Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Up to seven times?" Jesus said to him, "I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven. Matthew 18:21-22 (New American Standard Bible)

The forgiveness of the father for the prodigal son, the forgiveness of the king for the servant who owed what he could not pay, and the higher standard of forgiveness given to Peter when his own was less than extravagant, go far beyond what God wants us to demonstrate. Each is an example of His willingness and capability to forgive and to keep on forgiving.

I marvel when someone sticks with me each time I fail, take steps backwards, give in to the dictates of my flesh, and just plain blow it! When it is all said and done, I look to see if they are still around and when I see that they are I wonder at their patience, persistence, and love. Each time I feel least deserving of their friendship and support they end up giving me the gift of compassion and companionship. Their ability to see the small steps of growth among the times of getting side tracked, off track, and back tracked makes me realize afresh how very little I truly understand about unconditional love.

The same is true of God. How He wants me to see that His love never falters. His forgiveness knows no limits or expiration dates. He sees the heart behind the actions and knows the desire for change. When what I thought was conquered comes back with a vengeance, He says, “I forgive you.” When my love for others is blocked by the hindrances of my own heart, He says, “I forgive you.” When failures are repeated and attitudes of the heart have once again been apparent, He says, “I forgive you.” Whatever I bring to Him is always met with the same words, “I forgive you.” His words entail more than a fresh start and stain removal. They let me know He is not giving up on me, tired of me, or disgusted with me. He is not seeing me as an impossibility or lost cause. He does not view my set backs as cancellation of all that He has done so far.

I drink in grace today whether it is extended to me by God or by another person. It is the only way to keep condemning thoughts and feelings from taking over and robbing me of the joy He intends for me to walk in.

Father, thank you for those who are Your hands and heart to me. They often flesh out the truths about You. Amen.

What a Faithful God - Robert Critchley
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gLEgyKpzyUw&feature=related

He is wooing you from the jaws of distress to a spacious place free from restriction, to the comfort of your table laden with choice food. Job 36:16

The Power of Short Prayers

But seeing the wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, "Lord, save me!" Matthew 14:30 (New American Standard Bible)

A three word prayer was enough to bring Peter up from a “being pulled down” moment. Peter had requested that Jesus call him out of the boat to walk on water. When the request was made and Peter was out on the water, fear and the view of waves took him below the surface he was able to walk on just moments before. Jesus’ response to his cry for help was immediate and complete.

Ever been in that place? Doing fine one minute and sinking fast the next? One of the most frustrating battles I have fought over my life time has been that of spiraling moods. By nature I am talkative, enjoy people, and love to laugh. Communication is life to me. Relationships are treasures I hold dear. But when I spiral down into pits of darkness all those things I enjoy and value so highly are far removed and darkness engulfs me. It may last for a few hours or a few days until I choose to take hold of truth and allow God to once again lift me up.

A recent episode led me to desire freedom from the “fall.” I wanted a way to recognize the onset and gain victory before plunging down. God has been gracious to help me fashion a short but effective prayer. It requires identifying the heart attitude that can become my ladder into a pit. Once I recognize the attitude, I think of what I want instilled in me to replace it. Those become the substance of my prayer. For instance, when I am over come by a feeling of jealousy, my prayer becomes, “Father, I hate the jealousy arising in me. Fill me with a sense of well-being and contentment found only in You.” Is it effective? Absolutely! I have lost count of how many prayers of this nature I have spoken have in the last two days and each time no pit was visited. The heaviness and darkness lifted before they had a chance to settle in. The internal lightness was incredible.

I have no doubt this will continue to be a key to freedom for me as long as I choose to grasp it. Jesus is still in the business of rescuing us from sinking when our cry for help is directed toward Him. I have a daily choice to call out to Him or go down. I choose to call.

Father, I am astounded at You. Today is a day I am prepared to ask for Your help. I need You. I look to You. I thank You. I worship You. Amen.

Cry Out to Jesus - Third Day
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KODrd5KAsWk

Fixing my eyes on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of my faith!