Callings and Desires

Paul, a bondservant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated to the gospel of God. Romans 1:1 (New King James Version)

Whom have I in heaven but You? And there is none upon earth that I desire besides You. Psalm 73:25 (New King James Version)

I want Paul’s ability to identify himself according to God’s description and Asaph’s desire for God above all others. Did it mean a perfect life for either? No! Did it mean struggles ended and bliss marked their every waking moment? Absolutely not! They each had their own set of difficulties, weaknesses, and failures but those things did not define them or consume them. If I were to put these verses into my own words they might read something like this. “Pam, enslaved to Jesus, called to teach, and singled out for God’s message of salvation to others. No one but You, O, God!”

My first thought after reading both these verses was a strong awareness of how far short I fall of the reality of both. I am aware of my own actions and attitudes that do not portray the fact that I am His called and separated servant. I know all too well those desires that compete with my desire toward God. I am humbled and broken by the truth. But I am also aware of God’s desire and ability to bring me to the place whereby these verses mark my path and my life. My failures and shortcomings are not the end of the story. It is not too late for me to turn these verses into my own prayer request! God is still in the process of transforming me.

Sometimes we convince ourselves that we cannot possibly live up to the walk of others. It is like they have an inside track to God and godly living and we keep missing it. Comparisons are dangerous and deadly. Change comes when I become more enamored with the Creator than with His creations. Appreciate them? Yes! Learn from them? Yes! But my patterning, dependency, longing, trust, and focus must be primarily on Christ. If I am trying to get needs met through people, fulfillment out of opportunities, and pleasure out of circumstances I am only living on the scraps of what God offers me. I end up living with a frustrated, deprived spirit. But if God is my desire and the One I long after, then being His servant becomes my daily reality. When I walk in agreement with God and have my strongest desire toward Him I am on a path with no comparison!

Father, be my desire above all others. Help me to fully live out my calling as Your servant! Amen.

With All I Am - Hillsong
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M0AyxEMFRbI

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.

Receiving to Give

For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures. 1 Corinthians 15:3,4 (New International Version)


We cannot give away what we do not first possess for ourselves and we cannot possess what we first do not receive. Paul stated this in relationship to his receiving and then passing on to others, the gospel message of Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. I, too, never shared the gospel with an individual until after I had received it for myself.

This morning, I am pondering the things I pass on to others because I have received them myself. I listen when another speaks to me because I have had others give me their undivided attention. I forgive and give others a second chance because forgiveness has been extended to me. I ache for the hurt of others because I have had individuals come along side me in times of darkness and pain. I hug another in greeting because arms have welcomed me in ways that hugged my soul as well as my body. I encourage another in their faith because people have so graciously and consistently encouraged me. In other words, I pass on what I first received. I demonstrate what has been shown to me.

This idea of passing on what has been received is one of God’s kingdom principles. It is the way He has designed the Christian life to be lived. It honors Him as it helps others. I thank Him this morning for the people He has used in my life. They have invested their time, energy, and wisdom and I do not want to live as if it were all in vain. I want their actions to bear fruit beyond the branches of my life. I want their kindnesses to be multiplied as I duplicate and imitate them.

When Jesus fed the 3,000 and then the 5,000 he started with a small lunch of fish and bread. He handed to His disciples what was handed to Him. They then distributed to others what had been given to them. Our words and actions are part of the receiving and giving principle. May we learn to be receptive receivers and generous givers.

Father, thank you for all that You have given to me either directly or through the lives of other believers. May my life be one that keeps passing on what I have received. Amen.

Jesus You're Beautiful - CeCe Winans
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dz8FSUNFXHM

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

Guaranteed Returns

As you have done, it will be done to you. Your dealings will return on your own head. Obadiah 1:15 (New International Version)

Our actions matter to God. The way we treat others and respond to the situations of their life is noticed! What comes to your mind when you read today’s verse? It will all depend on how you have interacted with people. If we really understood what God is saying we would put more thought into the way we are living our lives. Throughout Scripture, God presents the reaping and sowing principle. Count on this….there will be a harvest. God is giving us the opportunity to make sure that harvest is good.

Let’s get practical! Do I live my life out of graciousness, forgiveness, generosity, tolerance, and benevolence? God says it will come back on me. Do I live my life out of selfishness, anger, impatience, revenge, and bitterness? God also says that will come back on me. What I want must be what I am demonstrating to others. It is not a matter of waiting for others to treat me the way I want to be treated and then acting in response to their goodness. That is backwards thinking. God’s way is for me to take the initiative and act first. When I do so, in the right way, I am following the pattern God has shown me….time and time again.

Sometimes we hesitate to live with other’s best interests at heart because we fear our needs will go unmet. God reminds us that will not be the case. We can trust Him on this one. It is like a boomerang! What I send out always comes back to me. Maybe not from the person I extended the goodness to, but it will come back. That is what He meant when He said, “Give and it shall be given unto you. Pressed down, shaken, and running over.”

A few illustrations come to mind….driving! I find that when I am prone to give way to other drivers the same is done back to me countless times. But when I drive selfishly and impatiently I can count on other drivers being just as rude toward me. As I encourage others, encouragement comes my way. As I give to others I become a recipient later on to an act of kindness. God said it this way, “To have friends you must show yourself friendly.” Part of living by faith is realizing goodness comes back to me that I have extended to others. I count on that harvest!

Father, help me to live my life giving away the very things You have given to me. May I demonstrate Your heart to others. Amen.

Make Me A Servant - Maranatha Singers
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0rznoe3zKxM

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

As Others Have Done

Then she fell on her face, bowing to the ground and said to him, Why have I found favor in your sight that you should take notice of me, since I am a foreigner? Ruth 2:10 (New American Standard Bible)

Have you ever asked about or internally questioned the kindness of another individual toward you? Ruth did so and I believe that her story encourages us to do the same. She had known the loss of her husband through death, the leaving of her homeland through choice, and the feel of a foreigner in a new place. I am not sure what her expectations were each day she went out to glean food for her and her mother-in-law, but when Boaz’s kindness was extended to her she voiced the thoughts she had pondered, “Why am I finding favor in your sight and being taken notice of?”

I am always astounded when someone shows me favor and takes notice of my situation. I do not take lightly their willingness to invest in a relationship with me. This morning I am looking back to many years of God intersecting my world with such individuals and lifting up a heart of thanks for His doing so. Each came at pivotal times in my life. Some came to fill in the holes left from childhood experiences. Some came to instill valuable life lessons in me. Some came to redirect my steps on the path God had called me to. Some came to teach me spiritual truths that revolutionized my Christian life. Some came to lead me out of darkness, grief, confusion, and loss. Some came at times when life seemed to be going well and some came at times when life had all but fallen apart. Some had public platforms of ministry while others lived fairly private lives. Whatever the scenario and whoever the person, they were my “Boaz” for a time and memories of them are precious treasures in the coffers of my mind.

Having said that, I am acutely aware of my need to be a Boaz to others. To invest in their life. To be willing to be a part of their journey. To be the hands and heart of Jesus to them. To allow God to intentionally bring me along side individuals who need my favor and notice directed toward them. What I received from the heart of others is what others are in need of from me whenever and wherever God opens the door of opportunity.

I have had many people show me what to do and how to do it. Following their example will be the ultimate way to demonstrate that their ministry in my life was not in vain.

Father, I will never be able to thank You enough for the individuals You have used and continue to use to shape my life. Let my actions be one more way to express my gratitude! Amen.

Thank You - Ray Boltz
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UFrdJ2V3r7Y&feature=related

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

When It is Given to Another

Go up to the top of Pisgah, and lift your eyes toward the west, the north, the south, and the east; behold it with your eyes, for you shall not cross over this Jordan. But command Joshua, and encourage him and strengthen him; for he shall go over before this people, and he shall cause them to inherit the land which you will see. Deuteronomy 3:27, 28 (New King James Version)

In today’s passage, not only do we witness God’s final answer to Moses’ desire to enter the Promised land with the nation of Israel, but we also hear His instructions as to how he is to interact with the one who is to take his place as the next leader of God’s people. He is given a view of the land but denied entry due to a disobedient act on his part. That had to have stung. Yet, I marvel at what God instructs him to do with regards to Joshua….command him, encourage him, strengthen him. Further reading reveals that Moses did just that! He whole heartedly supported the one who would be privileged to do what he would not be allowed to do.

I compare this scenario to that of King Saul when he knew that David was to be the next king of Israel. Jealousy and hate ruled Saul’s heart and actions. Rather than command, encourage, and strengthen, he sought to kill him! Both men lost their desired positions and opportunities due to their own actions and yet the way they responded to the consequences and their “replacements” were polar worlds apart.

Although Moses’ and Saul’s situation had to do with consequences, I am asking myself which scenario would more closely resemble my life if someone were given an opportunity I wanted for myself? In all honesty, without the grace and work of God in my life, I am more like Saul than Moses (minus the intent to murder). My flesh gets riled when what I want is withheld from me and “handed” to another person….even a friend. When disappointment marks my path, I don’t do well with “rejoicing with those who rejoice.”

Many have been the times I have had to take an honest look at my heart, admit the truth to God, and ask for His grace to overcome the dictates of my flesh. That is just the first step though. It takes additional grace from Him to then become the encourager and strengthener of the one who is chosen by Him to carry out that which I long to do. To partner with them rather than stand opposed to them or in competition with them. It is part of learning to walk on a solid foundation of trust in the heart of my Father, for He knows the plans He has for me and others ….plans to prosper rather than harm!

Father, when I am disappointed may it never be in You! Help me to come to the place of receiving “No” from You as easily as I receive “Yes.” Help me to interact with others in a way that pleases and honors You. Amen.

Do I Trust You - Twila Paris
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hSopilUouw8

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.

Is It Not Enough?

They assembled together against Moses and Aaron, and said to them, "You have gone far enough, for all the congregation are holy, every one of them, and the LORD is in their midst; so why do you exalt yourselves above the assembly of the LORD?" Numbers 16:3 (New American Standard Bible)

Korah’s jealousy over another person’s position lead him to act out in rebellion and eventually cost him his life. He failed to see that Moses and Aaron were given the places of leadership by God rather than by their own choosing or that of others. He failed to grasp the truth that his position and calling as a Levite was not insignificant. Jealousy over another person’s place, possessions, or position needs to be recognized, acknowledged, and abandoned before the consequences play themselves out in painful ways.

God had one question for Korah as found in Numbers 16:9, “Is it not enough for you to be separated by God to do the service of the tabernacle?” God was reminding him of not only his life’s calling but Who it was that was doing the calling. How much he missed when he minimized God’s purpose for his life and compared his life to that of another.

Can I relate with Korah? Absolutely! Yet, I find great comfort in the reminder his story serves. Too often I can look at the ministries others have and be overcome with feelings of envy and discontent. I can forget God has His own desires and purposes for each of our lives. I can forget God’s ways and thoughts are higher than my own. I can get the idea that I am less loved, less noticed, or less important to God due to the fact that what He does in and through me looks different than that of another person. When opportunities for a particular service elude me or positions of ministry remain out of reach for me, I can mistakenly place a big question mark over the significance of my own life.

God’s answer? Trust Him to do what is best for all. See the worth, meaning, and value of what He has called me and others to do. Rejoice in the variety of vessels He uses to get the work of the Kingdom done. Learn as much as I can during this time in my life as it very well may be a time of preparation for what is to come later. These are the ways to avoid or stop my heart, actions, and thoughts from becoming like Korah’s. When asked if what God has me doing is enough, I want to proclaim with joy, “It is MORE than enough!”

Father, I rejoice that You are not a God who plays favorites in Your work on Earth. With You there is no unimportant task or insignificant vessel. Keep doing a work in and through me for Your honor and glory. Amen.

Jesus, Lover of My Soul (It's All About You)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dD-ZdMOx_HY&feature=related

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

Choosing the Good Part

But the Lord answered and said to her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her." Luke 10:41, 42 (New American Standard Bible)

Jesus’ words to Martha were timely and timeless. They followed an invitation into her home and preparations of a meal. In the midst of her “service” for Him, He pin-points an area in her life that needs a reality check. While her hospitality was commendable it was filled with distraction, worry, and bother. I picture her with frayed nerves and ever rising frustration. She reached out for the one thing she thought would be her answer for ease. She asked the Lord to give her the help of her sister. Instead, the Lord gave her an example to follow. Jesus wanted her to see there was a difference between inviting Him into her home and spending time with Him. Martha had a choice to make. Become offended by His answer or learn from it.

Many of us have been where Martha was. Busy “doing” for our Lord with very little “being” with our Lord. Activity fills our life with very little time to sit at His feet and listen to His words to us. While we have the religion of Christianity down pat, we flounder at the relationship aspect. How do you know when that is the case for you?

There is a lack of joy in what you are doing. You house critical attitudes toward others. Your inner world is filled with turmoil and frustration. You feel disconnected from intimately knowing Him. You are on a high mode rather than a rest mode. You sense you have lost a necessary balance in your life. Your activities have left you with very little time to be in the Word or in prayer. When it is all said and done the emptiness is profound.

The answer? Ask God to show you the truth and how to choose the good part of spending time with Him. Not just moments in the morning, but practicing His presence and hearing His voice throughout the day. Give up the “list” for lessons at His feet. Ask Him to make the “doing” an out growth of “being” with Him.

If what you have read today, strikes a chord with you, I understand, for I have been there. Three decades of doing! I found a place at His feet nearly six years ago and now know the preciousness of the good part….it’s Him! It hasn’t left me with nothing to do but rather has impacted and energized me while I do it.

Father, You have engaged my heart once again. May being in Your presence continue to be my passion and place. Amen.

Heart of Worship - Matt Redman
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vZgPPmtZgS4

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

Changing the Direction

Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (New American Standard Bible)

The words stung because they were so true! Dr. Margaret Paul wrote of a woman who wanted others to “fill her up, approve of her, become responsible for her feelings of worth and safety.” It was emotional dependency in a nutshell and I could all too easily slip my name into her example. My first response was shame for having such a tendency reside in me. On the heels of shame was despondency as this continues to be an issue in my life. I have known the pain of losing someone in my life because of it and the fear of losing others as they see it as well. My question to God was, “How do I change? How do I stop looking to people to do this stuff for me and begin living without the disappointment when they can’t or won’t?

I have said it before and I will say it again, God does not bring things to the surface to condemn us but rather to show us where He wants to work. His answer to me wasn’t something I had never heard before…..numerous people have said it to me and numerous people have demonstrated it to me by their example. Breaking free of emotional dependency is found in becoming an encourager to others. Encouragement with a smile, with a hug, with a note, with a conversation, or any number of ways God brings to mind.

God’s picture to me is that I often focus on the flow of relationships going from others to myself. I look to others to make me feel good about myself, to take away pain, to fix me. God’s way is that I would see the flow of relationships going out from me to others. Finding ways to encourage and uplift them. Not for the hopes that it will make me feel better (although it will do that) but rather out of interest for them.

It is one of God’s many kingdom principles. Extend to others what I so badly crave for myself and know that God will faithfully meet every need I have. A friend who has known me most of my life once said, “Pam, because of the things that happened in your childhood, you have spent many years trying to figure out ways to get your emotional needs met.” She was right and what I am learning is that none of those ways work. God is once again giving me the answer to my dilemma…..live connected to Him and focus on others. Rather than sit at the table of life frantically looking for what I can consume, He is nudging me to walk around that table and begin serving others. As always, His ways are higher than my own and they work!

Father, purify my heart and my motives. Help me to be the encourager You have called and equipped me to be. Thank you for every example You have put in front of me. I have watched others and now it is time to follow in their steps. Amen.

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

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

Out of a Willing Heart

Speak to the Israelites, that they take for Me an offering. From every man who gives it willingly and ungrudgingly with his heart you shall take My offering. Exodus 25:2 (Amplified Bible)

The building of the tabernacle in Old Testament times was initiated by God. He gave clear and precise instructions as to the materials that would be used as well as its architectural design. No detail was left unspoken or unrecorded. Yet, before any of those factors were disclosed He laid out the requirements of giving. The offerings were to be given from willing and ungrudging hearts. Other translations say, prompted from the heart and moved by the heart. Mere actions of conformity were not what God was after when it came to this special offering. It is not what He is after in whatever He calls each of us to do as well.

Scripture tells us that God loves a cheerful giver and that whatever we do we should do it heartily as to the Lord. This heart motivation and drive is not limited to financial giving in a church service. It targets every area of our life where we are called upon to act. The ramifications of this truth are huge as I consider them in light of my job, my marriage, my home, my church family, my relationships, my communication, my interaction with people, my entertainment, my health, my walk with God, my walk with others, my reactions to difficulties, and times when I am needing to walk in forgiveness. Whether it is giving a listening ear or a helping hand, God wants it done with a willing and grudge-free heart. A heart that is absent of resentment, complaint, bitterness, or a chip on my shoulder. He wants joy, passion, and enthusiasm to be displayed in my body language as well as on my face.

That can be a pretty tall order when it comes to the things I don’t actually enjoy or feel like doing. The daily grind of life can be filled with less than willingness and joy. So what do I do in those cases? I ask for His help. That which He calls me to do He will give me the time to do, the ability to do, and the willingness to do with a right heart attitude. What I lack in the area of my heart He will gladly give whenever I ask. It is as simple as saying, “Father, give me a willing heart to do the thing you are calling me to do.” I have voiced that prayer several times already this morning and was given exactly what I asked for. What He asks of each of us is what He so beautifully displays Himself. He is the ultimate cheerful Giver and I want to be like Him!

Father, You never tire of hearing my cries for help. You know my weaknesses and frailties and You willingly give what I lack. Give me a heart like Yours to be the driving force behind every action and word I speak today. Amen.

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

Do you have a verse or passage of Scripture that you would like to read a devotional on? If so, send me the verse or passage and I will look to see if I have written one for it. I would enjoy sending you a copy if it is available.

Mustering or Asking?

If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him! Matthew 7:11

Last night and this morning I have become acutely aware of my tendency to try to muster up what I perceive God is expecting of me. Commands are often viewed as something I need to perform out of my own determination and ability. All the things I still lack in my life become lists I think I need to find in myself to fulfill. Whether it is loving God with all my heart, soul, and mind, having a passion for souls, desiring His Word above all other literature, consistently demonstrating all the fruit of the Spirit, praying without ceasing, loving others with pure motives and tireless willingness, finding complete satisfaction and delight in God alone, looking more to Him and less to people, or any number of other abundant life qualities, I have so often felt God would be more pleased with me if I could manage these things without asking for His help. I viewed Him wrongly as the parent who was impressed with the child who could “do it all by himself.” What I have come to realize is this is the trap of legalism at the heart level. It is still performance based Christianity and polar worlds apart from what God intends.

What I am viewing as personal failures in my life are actually God’s invitation to ask His help! He knows I do not possess the capability to love Him and live for Him without His assistance. He is not looking for me to act independently of Him, but rather to come to the place of realizing how much I need Him to give me the very things He is asking of me. Every time I read something in the Bible that shows me what I should be doing needs to become a call for help! The passion must come from Him. The desire must come from Him. The ability must come from Him.

Several years ago I was astounded at the truth that God’s love is not dependent upon what I am doing. Today I am just as astounded at the truth that without Him I can do nothing! He has been wooing me to Himself and waiting for me to see my need of Him. My inabilities do not disappoint or disgust Him…He already knows my personal poverty! He stands with gifts of help to bestow on any who ask! He is willing to do IN me what He wants OF me. It must be a cooperative relationship whereby I ask Him for what He longs to pour into me. I receive what He willingly gives. My tiredness is finally being exchanged for His rest. Surely I am not His only child who has had it wrong all this time!

Father, continue to clear up the misconceptions I have of You and the Christian life. I lay them all at the foot of the cross and extend open hands to receive Your help. Amen.

Perspectives in the Work Place

Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Ephesians 6:7 New Living Translation

I enjoy my job. It is like none other that I have ever had. For a total of 15 years I taught lower elementary in several Christian schools. For 8 years I did assembly work in my home for a slogan button company. I have worked as a counselor in a Christian camp, supervised at a day camp, and even did some day care work. For the past two and a half years I have worked in an education warehouse….particularly in inventory control. Most of my day is spent on an order picker (see attached photo) whereby I check the quantity of products in locations.

Today’s verse allows me to do my job in a way that surpasses any other means of motivation. For I find that everything changes when I view it as being done for God. Working for Him gives my work significance, importance, and purpose. How in the world can I view a task done for Him as mundane, unessential, or demeaning? When I see God as my supervisor, employer, and inspector it affects my performance and the quality of my work. If I limit my service to just what people see and expect I will settle for less than my best.

My relationship with God carries over into my work place. It affects the way I interact with my coworkers. It affects my productivity. It affects the seriousness with which I do my job. God will set the standard higher than ANY person I work for. Far from being a task master, God provides me with the ability, strength, and desire to do what I do. His approval and pleasure means more to me than what my coworkers or bosses think. His opinion is what counts!

We make a big mistake when we label some jobs as “Christian service” and other jobs as “secular work.” Within the kingdom of God it is all the same. If it is done according to His will in faithfulness and sincerity it is godly ministry. My work becomes a means whereby I acknowledge and worship God on a daily basis.

Do I plan to work at this same place for the rest of my life? Not really. I have dreams and desires that God and I talk about quite often. But for now, He has a purpose for me in the place He has me. During this time He is instilling character and growth in me and I do not want to miss out on any lesson of life! It is my job, my ministry, my calling, and my place…for now.

Father, You instituted work from the beginning. May I always realize the truth that it is not what I do but Who I do it for that matters most! Amen.

Invitation to be Involved

The Lord said to Moses, “Why do you cry to Me? Tell the people of Israel to go forward! Lift up your rod and stretch out your hand over the sea, and divide it, and the Israelites shall go on dry ground through the midst of the sea.” Exodus 14:15,16 Amplified Bible

Sometimes, God’s instructions to His people are to stand still and watch Him work! Their own involvement seems to be observing God at work. But many times in Scripture, God invites people to become involved in His activity. Such was the case with Moses and the children of Israel. Numerous times Moses was instructed to use his rod in a display of faith before God moved in a mighty way. There wasn’t anything miraculous about the rod that Moses held. The miracle was in God’s power. The rod was simply a demonstration of faith and an act of obedience.

In the New Testament there were many times people were instructed to do something before the miracle took place. A blind man was told to go wash his face in the Pool of Salome. A paralyzed man was told to get up and walk. A man with a withered hand was told to stretch out his hand. A leper was told to go show himself to the priest. These were small acts compared to the miracle that followed. How precious of God that He invited people to take an active part in the very work He would do!

Each day we have the opportunity to be God’s hands and mouthpiece to a world who does not know Him. While God certainly reveals Himself through His Word, He also reveals Himself through His people. He invites each one of us to become involved in His kingdom work. The actions vary but each one houses significance.

What is it God will invite us to join Him in today? Will it be words He nudges us to speak? Will it be an act of kindness He urges us to do? Will it be extending a helping hand or a listening ear? Will it be lifting up prayers on behalf of another person? Will it be giving in order to meet the need of a person? Will it be taking something we possess and allowing it to be the demonstration of our faith that God will do mighty things?

Moses used a rod. David used a sling. Queen Esther used influence. Paul used words. What is it we will use? Whatever it is, may we see God do amazing things with it and us!

Father, You could certainly work alone but instead You graciously ask us to join You. I marvel at such an invitation! Amen.

The Permanence of His Gifts

Thus says the Lord GOD, “If the prince gives a gift out of his inheritance to any of his sons, it shall belong to his sons; it is their possession by inheritance.” Ezekiel 46:16

I have often heard it said if a person does not use the gifts God gives them they will lose them. But this morning I am seeing a principle in Scripture that challenges such thinking. Apparently if a gift of inheritance was given to a son it was given on a permanent basis. If a gift of inheritance was given to a servant it was his until the year of jubilee (the ending of every 50 years). As a child of God I can rest assured that the Prince of all princes lavishes His gifts on me and never takes them back. What security!

While it is true that I can miss an opportunity to use my gifts and that particular opportunity may not come my way again, the gift remains. It is also true that I have a gracious heavenly Father who will present other opportunities to use my gifts if I but ask. It wasn’t until recently that I began realizing and thanking God for the gifts He has freely given to me. It has been in recognizing the gifts that I am placing myself in a position to begin using them. Two come to mind this morning.

God has given me the gift of humor. For years I misused it and others misunderstood it. At one time, being funny was labeled as immature and became an area of shame for me. I tried to lock it away and keep it from surfacing. But God in His tenderness revealed to me the purpose of that gift…it was to bring laughter and delight to others. Now I thank Him for the opportunities to make another person smile and feel better.

Communication is the other gift. Whether in written or verbal form I love to communicate. If I am not careful this gift can be misused but God is showing me ways to use it properly and as I follow His lead I am amazed at what He does with the words. Like the humor, there was a time I thought I had to squelch the words but I never quite succeeded. Good thing!

Why the examples? To illustrate the fact that while I may misuse a gift, while some may misunderstand a gift, while I may go through a time of not even using a gift….it is still there. God will not remove it. He gave it to be used and will in time help me to use it for its intended purpose. The same is true for you, dear one.

Father, I often failed to see what You so freely gave. Now I treasure each gift and stand in awe of how You allow them to be used. Amen.

Any and All Things

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Philippians 4:13 KJV

Over what part of your life do you need this verse engraved today? Surely it is the essential truth that must be joined with any command of God. It is the ability that comes to our aid when faced with any task that seems impossible or improbable. It is our ray of hope on any given day when what we know we should do seems beyond our reach or capability. Maybe it is loving the unloving, stepping out of our comfort zone, standing up for what is right, taking on a new responsibility. It might be a physical, spiritual, emotional, or mental demand that is put on us. The very thing that comes to your mind as you read these words is the place that needs to embrace the truth of doing all things through Christ.

So what does that mean? How do we go about doing all things through Christ? We must believe the strength will come through Him. Strength would entail the ability, know how, and stamina to perform the task. We must be in daily relationship with Him….abide in Him. Spending time in His word, seeking His face in prayer, looking to Him for direction, help, and answers. All that we are looking to others to do for us is what we must transfer over to Him. In this day and age when people and tools are so readily available to us, it is easy to actually live out our Christian life independent of God. I speak from experience here. There is a vast difference between living the Christian life and living the Christian life in intimate, daily connection with God. A huge difference! And finally, we must cooperate with God. As God nudges us, commands us, and shows us the things we are to be doing, we must do them. Not in our own strength but in reliance on Him.

Relying on Him does not negate my part…..it fulfills it! There is no room for us to say, “I can do it myself.” It is not possible and it is not God’s desire or intent for us. It is a partnership of great proportion. It is fleshing out the truth of Philippians 2:13 which says, “it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work.” We are the vessels but He is the substance. May we live out today dependent upon Him, connected to Him, and capable by Him.

Father, living in and out of relationship with You makes all the difference in the world. Keep teaching me how to do that! Amen.

Rethinking What It Means to Serve

Serve the LORD with gladness: come before His presence with singing. Psalm 100:2

Many will look at Psalm 100:2 and instantly think of their role in the local church. I often have! But when I stop to realize my time spent in church constitutes a mere six hours in a week (at most) I must conclude that most of my service to the Lord will be done outside the walls of my church. How will I view and occupy the other 163 hours in my week? Some will be spent in my home, at my place of employment, at stores, traveling in my vehicle, etc… How am I doing at the tasks God gives me each day?

It changes my perspective greatly when I realize that everything I do can be done for God. It helps when I am doing something to envision Jesus Himself standing by me and saying, “Will you do this for Me?” Often times, my whole attitude and enthusiasm is changed depending on who is making the request. If it is someone I love, admire, and enjoy I am thrilled to be at their every beck and call. If it is someone I have little regard for I may respond less enthusiastically. I might even perform the task half heartedly, hesitantly, or with a bothered spirit.

Recently God has been showing me the value of doing something with the same attitude and willingness that I would have if He were the one requesting it or a dear friend were requesting it. That becomes the standard by which He interprets my service. Anything less is not pleasing to Him…..it is not serving Him with gladness.

So I head into today asking myself how I will do throughout my day. How will I view the jobs I am asked to do that don’t appeal to me or that no one else wants to do? How will I serve the person I hesitate to fully love? How will I respond at times when doing something interferes or interrupts my task at hand? May I desire to serve the Lord with gladness! When done for Him, no job can be called mundane, menial, or meaningless.

May the people I come into contact with today be the recipients of service done out of love and empowered by the Spirit of God. Former students of mine use to enthusiastically raise their hands when asked if someone would like to do ___________. May I be THAT willing, THAT excited, and THAT desirous to accept God’s assignments.

Father, empower me to not only serve You today but to serve You with gladness. Amen.

The Ultimate Master

Now, therefore, please let your servant remain instead of the lad a slave to my lord, and let the lad go up with his brothers. Genesis 44:33

What change has taken place in the life of Judah! Years earlier it was Judah who offered the suggestion to sell Joseph. Now it is Judah who is willing to be enslaved so that Benjamin can be returned to his father. He has lived with his father's grief over losing Joseph yet now he cannot bear to grieve him further.

True love does not seek to hurt the other person. Is my heart as tender toward my heavenly Father? If so, it will affect the way I treat His children. For when I mistreat them I touch the apple of His eye. All the precious truths I am learning about God ~ He cherishes me, delights in me, loves me unconditionally, sings over me, desires intimacy with me ~ are also true of His other children. My love for God should cause me to be willing to sacrifice for others. What that may mean to each individual varies. It may mean taking the first step at reconciling a strained friendship, letting another off the hook for not meeting my needs, allowing another person into my circle of friends, helping with a financial need, listening to another's hurts without adding my own story, or sometimes adding my own story.

Judah was willing to become a slave. That would mean loss of freedom, loss of family, loss of dignity, loss of dreams, loss of a future. But when I choose to become God's bondservant those losses become my gains. I gain freedom, family, dignity, dreams, and a future. It is when I die to self that I truly begin to live. It is when I stop serving myself that I am most available to serve God and others.

Unlike human masters, God is a Master with a tender heart and invites me into close relationship with Himself. He has things to whisper to me and incredible things to show me. He doesn't want to see fear in my eyes when I obey Him. Picture two hunting dogs. One cowers in fear at the hands of a cruel and angry master. The other bounds around, tail wagging, tongue flapping, and eyes eagerly anticipating his master's desires. May I respond to my heavenly Father's heart of love in such a way that serving Him is a privilege, a joy, a delight, and the deepest desire of my heart.

Oh, Father, may I always respond to You with eagerness. May I see each opportunity as OUR opportunity to be together. Amen