Trust Amidst Troubles

I will rejoice and be glad in Your loving kindness, because You have seen my affliction, You have known the troubles of my soul. Psalm 31:7 (New American Standard Bible)

The words rejoice, be glad, affliction, and troubles of my soul seem to be an oxymoron…a combination of contradictory or incongruous words. The ability, desire, and practice of rejoicing in God’s loving kindness is the most difficult when we are afflicted and troubled. But that is also when it is the most necessary. When all of life seems to be telling us that God is anything but loving or kind, that is the time we need to proclaim it the loudest. When what God chooses to do or not do causes us to doubt His care for us, that is the time we must hide under the shadow of His wings and allow Him to be our shelter.

Job expressed his trust in God amidst the loss of fortune, family, and health. David spoke of God’s safety during the very times he was being hunted down and his life in danger. Paul reveled in contentment amidst persecution and imprisonment. Were these men super human? No. Were they ever fearful, discouraged, uncomfortable, or angry? Absolutely. But they had discovered the value of drawing close to God during the times of greatest hardships. They knew that the things they endured did not change the character or truth about who God is.

I have learned that life is going to be full of troubles whether I trust God or not. But I have also learned my soul will find rest only as I seek my shelter and security in Him during those times. When my world falls apart, when the tears come, when the feelings of foreboding want to engulf me, I have learned to shut my eyes and view a precious picture. The scenes may vary but I always picture Jesus standing right by me, with His arm wrapped around my shoulder. I take in His words like, “I will never leave you or forsake you. I am with you always. I will work all things for good. I will take care of you.” No one on earth can speak such words to me besides Jesus. No one else has the ability to carry out those words.

So this morning I choose to proclaim Him as my shelter in all storms, my safety in all dangers, my provision in all losses, my help in all troubles, my comfort in all heartache, and my defense in all battles. There is no other way to live life victoriously.

Father, Your voice speaks louder than any whispers from the enemy. He would love nothing more than for me to buy into his lies. I refuse! Amen.

Warrior is a Child / Do I Trust You - Twila Paris
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Pzu-jWpcdw

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

Seeing it the Way God Sees It

This is but a slight thing in the sight of the LORD. 2 Kings 3:18 (New American Standard Bible)

What can compare to God speaking the worlds into existence? Think of the majestic mountains, the vast oceans, the intricate details of a flower, the force of a waterfall, the wonder of the human body. All brought into existence by the words of God’s mouth. What He conceived in His mind He spoke into being.

I look at the miracles in the Bible and I marvel at the vast array. Water from a rock, dry paths through the Red Sea and Jordan River, 40 years of manna in the wilderness, barren wombs bringing forth life, blind eyes seeing, the lame walking (leaping and running), a boy’s lunch feeding thousands, the dead brought to life, storms at sea calmed with a word, numerous battles fought and won in creative ways. Not to mention the miracles of the heart. Atheists becoming Christians, persecutors of the church becoming preachers, lifestyles changing, God’s Word becoming understandable and alive.

The things I bring to God begin to shrink in comparison to these things. So often I think of the size and difficulty of my requests and yet God wants me to see that what seems so huge in my mind is a slight thing in His sight. Not that it isn’t important. For every detail and concern of my life is of utmost importance to Him. If it matters to me it matters to Him. Not only do my tears touch His heart but so do the reasons they fall. What is slight in the sight of the LORD is not my situation, my need, my desire, my request but rather what it will take for God to intervene, answer, and act.

God does not look at the difficulty of my situation in the same way I do. It took no more strength for Him to divide the Red Sea than to turn water into wine. I come to Him like a kindergartener approaching a college professor with a question about simple addition. It is like asking a marathon runner to jog around the block. Like asking a weight lifter to carry a small suitcase for me. If I compare my need to God’s strength, wisdom, and ability I begin to understand His question when He said, “Is anything to hard for Me?”

Father, let me fully comprehend Your vastness as I bring any situation or request to You! What is slight to You has me in awe! Amen.

Is Anything too Hard for God
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L4O5Uvm7yqc&feature=related

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

Truth for the Maladies

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

Two of the most difficult things for me to do on a daily basis are acknowledge the truth about myself and keep my eyes focused on the One who is remaking me. I want continual, consistent victory. To always walk in strength and not weakness, fellowship and not loneliness, stability and not confusion. And when that is not the case I grieve, sigh, and cringe.

David knew how I feel. Read through the Psalms and you will see a man who knew how to voice fear, failure, frustration, weakness, anger, loneliness, regret, rejection, and pain. He was not one to sugar-coat his disposition or circumstances. He wasn’t one to spit out “bumper-sticker” phrases and “feel-good” philosophies. Yet he was called a man after God’s own heart and one reason was because the truth about God always over shadowed the truth about himself. God was the answer to every part of his life.

So when my flesh, inner person, mind, will, emotions, and soul fail, that does not have to be the end of my story. It does not have to be the summation of my life. Above every negative thing I know to be true about myself must hang the banner of truth which says, “God is my strength!” I must make that the home for my heart. It must be where I choose to live and breathe.

It is a continual process of taking my words, thoughts, emotions, and feelings and shining the light of truth on them. Allowing the Word of God to expose the lies and then deciding to believe God rather than believe the lies. There is a biblical truth to be embraced for every destructive malady in me. My loneliness is met with “I am with you always.” My self-loathing is met with “I have loved you with an everlasting love.” My sense of abandonment is met with “I will never leave you.” My feelings of hopelessness are met with “I know the plans I have for you.” My areas of weakness are met with “I am your strength and redeemer.” My sin is met with “I forgive you. I do not condemn you.” My failure is met with “I have established your steps.” God will not fail to show me the truths I need to hold close.

Father, Your whispers and reminders are precious to me. Help me to continually come home to You. Amen.

Stong Tower - Kutless
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lLYnN3rRC1Q&feature=related

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

When a Thorn Exists

And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure. 2 Corinthians 12:7 (New King James Version)

We are not told the nature of Paul’s thorn in the flesh. Some have suggested it may have been a problem with his eyes. I, for one, like the fact that God chose not to have it revealed to us in Scripture. For if He had specified what Paul’s thorn in the flesh was, we would be quick to limit it to only that category. Nonetheless, we are given some aspects of Paul’s thorn. God allowed it, God used it, and God refused to remove it.

I have but one area in my life that I am coming to see as a thorn. Not a thorn in my flesh but rather a thorn in my life. It has been a source of frustration, aggravation, discomfort, and torment to me on countless occasions. It has brought an end to some relationships and turmoil to others. At times I have thought I knew how to keep it ineffective only to watch as it reared its ugly head once again. My thorn? My area of concern? Emotional dependency. In short, looking to people to give me what only God can give me. Looking to certain individuals to fill the ache, heal the wounds, and somehow take care of my emotional needs. I have lived enamored by them as well as obsessed with them. I have walked with shame and regret too many times to count and have feared this area of my life would never change.

I am now at a point whereby I want to begin seeing things differently. I want to see that, as in the case of Paul, this can be used to keep me from thinking too highly of myself as well as help me to minister to others without a sense of looking down on them. After all, how do you look down on someone who struggles in an area that you can still taste in your own life? Above that, I can accept the grace God offers each time the dependency over whelms me. I can also be thankful for an area in my life that keeps directing my attention toward the only Source capable of bringing me through each battle.

Am I giving up on the hope of complete deliverance? No. It could still happen or the day could come when my reliance upon God far out weighs my need for people. But until that happens, I am finding new strength to withstand the emotional onslaught that comes with this thorn of mine.

Father, I can hear You whisper the same words to me that You spoke to Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you.” They comfort and strengthen me. In You, I sing a victor’s song. Amen.

His Strength Is Perfect - Steven Curtis Chapman
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CzKo25QKPsY&feature=related

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

Not a One Time Event

But as for me, I shall sing of Your strength; Yes, I shall joyfully sing of Your lovingkindness in the morning, for You have been my stronghold and a refuge in the day of my distress. Psalm 59:16 (New American Standard Bible)

Nineteen verses in the book of Psalms express David’s plea to God in times of distress. He learned the right thing to do when he was in trouble or turmoil…..cry out to God. He proclaimed Who God was, what his problem was, and what He wanted God to do for him in that place. He also sang songs about God’s heart, kindness, and presence. I don’t know how long it took for David to experience his deliverance in these times but I know this, he continually did what was necessary while waiting for that deliverance. Whether it was trouble from without or turmoil from within he knew that his source, security, and strength would only be found in God.

I have often made the mistake of thinking that once a lesson is learned I am good to go and will not face the difficulty again. Be it a sinful habit, a dependency issue, an addiction, or a hurt I somehow want to believe there is a puzzle piece and once I find it I will be free from continued struggles in those areas. I am now learning how far from the truth that kind of thinking is! It simply sets me up for disillusionment and discouragement. Life’s lessons are NOT learned so that I will be free from repeating the same scenarios but rather they are learned so that I know what to do when I once again face those scenarios.

So what is it I know to do? Acknowledge what is happening in and around me and how it is affecting me. Look to God for needed grace, strength, wisdom, and direction. Take His commands and advice to heart and act upon the truths He is showing me either in His Word or through individuals He brings across my path. Unlike salvation which is a one time event in my life, growth and sanctification are ongoing processes.

In the past number of months, I have had reoccurring bouts of a sinus infection…this week being the most recent. Seeing my doctor, taking my medicine, and catching up on my sleep are the repeated steps I take. They don’t guarantee a permanent solution but rather a necessary step for now. The same is true of my repeated bouts with issues at hand. Each time the need arises I must repeat the steps He has previously shown me. It does not mean I didn’t learn the lessons the first time. It means as a person I will spend the rest of my life looking to God, seeking God, asking God for help, and finding deliverance for that moment. If David and others in the Bible had to continually go to God for help, who am I to think I must not do the same?

Father, as the opportunities arise help me to do the right thing and look to You. May I not hesitate to cry and sing out to You! Amen.

Sing for Joy - Don Moen
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBs2V4_61AQ

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

To the Fullest Measure

Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who reside as aliens, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, who are chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood: May grace and peace be yours in the fullest measure. 1 Peter 1:1-2 (New American Standard Bible)

Written to Christians facing persecution and dispersed throughout many parts of the world, the Apostle Peter started this book of the Bible with some incredibly encouraging words. Right off the bat he wanted his readers to see and embrace the truth of who they were in Christ…..chosen, sanctified, and cleansed. Their true identity was not based on what they did, what they owned, or where they lived, but rather on who they were in Christ. Along with that, he desired for them to possess grace and peace in the fullest measure even though their circumstances were not the best. How encouraging to know that we can allow these verses to be a banner over our own lives.

When do I need grace and peace the most? When I am battling with personal issues. When I am irritated with myself or others. When I am fearful of outcomes that are yet to be seen. When I am over whelmed with a task at hand. When temptation seems stronger than my own resolve to resist. When I have failed. When my expectations are not met. When the doors of opportunity remain closed. When I take one step forward and several steps backward. When the things I most want to change are out of my control. When health fails. When patience wears thin. When others do not understand. When my feelings are hurt. When those I most want to please simply are not pleased. When problems remain unresolved. When I feel backed into a corner. When life happens.

Grace is God-given strength and peace is internal tranquility in the midst of storms and difficulties rather than the absence of them. It is the sense that you are being held together when you don’t feel you have it all together. It sustains you when all seems against you. It is not denial or mere positive thinking. It is available and abundant….ours for the asking. In times when I knew the internal or external storms were brewing I could simply ask God to fill me with His grace and peace. Within moments I was acutely aware of both. The early Christians needed them and so do we.

Father, thank you that You never skimp on the supply of Your grace and peace. Each time life gets difficult, You give me the fullest measure of both. I receive them with praise and thanksgiving. Amen.

It is Well With My Soul - Wintley Phipps
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYFjikyp7mQ

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

A Word for the Weary

And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9 (English Standard Version)

While today’s verse is often used to speak of service for others, God made it personal to me last night. I related strongly with the word “weary”. Other translations use words like tired, exhausted, loss of heart, fatigued, and spiritless. It has the idea of fainting and going limp! God knew that was where I was at once again. He knew the cycle of thoughts that were playing over and over in my mind. Thoughts of despair, failure, being a burden, unlovable, in the way, and unchangeable. He knew giving up was an option that kept looking appealing. He knew the perceptions of myself and others that screamed louder than the truth. He knew my feelings of foolishness, shame, and embarrassment. With all that He knew He offered me the words of Galatians 6:9.…”Don’t give up. Don’t quit. Don’t give in to the thoughts. It is worth the fight!”

What’s “the good” He wants me to continue doing? Speaking truth. Taking thoughts captive. Applying Scripture and its principles to my life. Asking for help and prayer. Accepting the gifts of friendship He has blessed me with. Putting on the armor of God. Resisting the Devil, his lies, and his tactics. Reviewing who I am in Christ. Keeping in constant communication with my Father. Living by faith more than feelings and emotions. Getting enough sleep. Eating healthier. Being controlled by His Spirit instead of my flesh. The list of good things that are good for me is endless as is the power that comes from each.

Battles are tiring. As I think back on this most recent one I can very easily beat myself up for not being victorious. I eventually let the wrong thoughts take over and it affected my outlook and demeanor. I shut down and distanced myself from those who would help and pray if I would but ask. When it was all said and done I felt like an isolated mess. Yet God still whispered, “Don’t give up. Get back in the fight. Others are praying for you and believing in my power to change you.”

Do I fear the next battle? There’s apprehension because of my past track record. But with each battle there will be growth and lessons learned. There will be fresh awareness of God’s involvement and assistance at all stages. It is a process. I will see victory one step, one thought, one decision at a time.

Father, each time the battle rages and I fear I’ve lost the fight, You come. I will not make it without You. Amen.

Come to Jesus - Chris Rice
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OjZEDg9ZGKQ

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

Taking Pleasure in What?

Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12:10 (New King James Version)

I take pleasure in a lot of things. Spending time with special people, watching another person awaken to the truths of God, discovering new facets about my heavenly Father, reading emails that fill my heart with joy and my eyes with tears, listening to music that captures the essence of my spirit and my journey, experiencing the breaking of a stronghold, making spiritual progress, and being overwhelmed by God’s mercy, love, and grace, all bring me pleasure and great delight! But the hardships and heartbreaks of life (like the things Paul listed in today’s verse)? Pleasure in those? Prayed against, maybe. Avoided or delivered from, definitely. Unwanted, absolutely. But take pleasure in? Not without the help and revelation of God!

In and of themselves, these things cannot bring pleasure. But what Paul had learned and what each of us must learn is the richness of what can come of those things. For it is in the very center of difficulty that we turn to God. When we stand in our own strength and experience a comfortable day we tend to not see our need of God. But when life falls apart and our platform of security crumbles, we are left with no choice but to cry out to God for strength, comfort, and encouragement. It is in our loneliness that we most seek His company. It is in our deepest loss that we seek His comfort. It is in our sin and regret that we seek His forgiveness and restoration. It is in our weakness that we finally seek His strength.

Hardships and handicaps keep me in constant touch with my limitations and my need for God’s strength. Instead of cringing at them, God desires that I fully realize my limitations, weaknesses, and propensities to sin in order to drive me straight into His arms to receive His strength and power. What I lack is what God graciously makes available to me. THAT is what I can take pleasure in! It is in seeing where troubles, tragedies, and trials lead me that I can begin to take pleasure in them. I don’t have to wait until it is all over before I can dance in delight. I simply have to fix my eyes on the end of the story that I know is coming! No matter what life throws at me, I KNOW God will infuse me with the grace and strength to stand in it or walk through it. I am limited…..He is NOT!

Father, I choose to embrace all that You gift me with each day. That which causes me to run to You is what I treasure the most. With my tears come Your comfort. With my weaknesses come Your strength. With my losses come Your gains. Pleasure indeed!!!! Amen.

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

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

When We Want to Run

In the LORD I take refuge; How can you say to my soul, "Flee as a bird to your mountain.“ Psalm 11:1 (New American Standard Bible)

Do you ever wish you could go somewhere for a number of years and come back with evident changes in your life? Do you ever wish that the people who know you best could eventually see development that seems so slow in coming? Do you ever wish the person you have become would become someone different? Do you ever just not like who you are and what you are? If so, know that you are not alone. Although few will admit it, many feel the same way.


Have you ever shared with another person your feelings of inadequacy, depression, or sadness? Is there at least one person in your life who knows how much you struggle to walk in peace, joy, and love? If so, does your trust remain in tact that they have not changed their opinion of you, lost respect for you, or are on the verge of giving up on you and walking away? Do you wrestle with thoughts that had you not shared so much maybe things would be different? Do you entertain thoughts of backing away before abandonment is forthcoming?

Escape seems to be the “answer” that some of us feel would put us in a safe place. Like maybe if we just backed away from the places where we experience internal darkness and foreboding thoughts, we somehow believe things would begin to change for us. We can’t imagine the possibility that things could be any different without running away. David wasted no time in letting us know that doesn’t work. Refuge and safety is not a place you escape to. It is a Person you hide in. That Person is Jesus Christ and He longs to be your place of refuge. He longs to be my place of refuge as well. So how do we make Him that place and person for us?

Get honest with Him. Confide in Him and confess to Him all that is going on inside your heart and mind. Tell Him the things that fill you with shame as well as the things that fill you with joy. Let Him know your fears, disappointments, and aches, as well as your treasures, dreams, and laughter. He is not looking for you to stand in His presence only when a smile is on your face. He wants realness, authenticity, and intimacy with Him. Then listen as He tells you the things your soul longs to hear.

Father, help me to escape into You. Running is not the answer unless it is into Your arms. Amen.

You Are My Hiding Place - Selah
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfUOLfBFFaU&feature=related

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

Interactions in the Wilderness

I cared for you in the wilderness, in the land of drought. Hosea13:5 (New American Standard Bible)

I look back at the children of Israel during their wilderness wanderings and I marvel at the loving care God displayed to them time and time again. Just His miraculous provisions of food and water leave me in awe. For forty years God had them in a place which forced them to look to Him for their most basic needs to be met. How slow they often were to realize His availability to them. Lessons were learned and relearned. But each time they cried out He answered. Each time they sought Him He was found. If I am ever looking for a picture of God’s tender, compassionate heart I need look no farther than the account of His people in the wilderness.

Isn’t it strange though how often the children of Israel accused God of forsaking them when needs arose? As difficulties came the worst case scenarios played out in their minds and they gave voice to all the doubts. “We are going to die here” became their motto. They could not conceive of the fact that God would get them through each crises. Even when God came through for them each new test seemed to take them back to doubts and discouragement.

It is times like that when the practicality of Scripture becomes a reality in my own life. Each of us have our wilderness experiences in the Christian life. For whatever reason life becomes hard, our spiritual life becomes dry, we feel forsaken and forgotten, our resources no longer help us, and we find ourselves at a place when we have no choice but to look to God for our daily needs. We might even find ourselves giving voice to every doubt and fear that wells up inside us. “I am not going to make it through this one” becomes our motto. The answer?

Realize God leads us into and stays with us through the wilderness times. Review His awareness of, His words to, and His acts of kindness displayed on His people. Know that He is just as involved in your life! If nothing else, find one truth about God’s character and hold on to it. Trust Him even when all the evidence seems to be against you and Him. Wildernesses are the places God desires to display His power on your behalf.

Father, each time I find myself in a wilderness may I look for and sense Your presence. The opportunities will abound for You to act on my behalf. I give You praise! Amen.

He Knews My Name - Maranatha Singers
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hXsiWoyjw60&feature=related

Holiness is a furnace that transforms the men and women who enter it. - Eugene H.Peterson

Held and Upheld

I have trodden the winepress alone, and from the peoples no one was with Me. I looked, but there was no one to help, and I wondered that there was no one to uphold; therefore My own arm brought salvation for Me. Isaiah 63:3,5 (New King James Version)

As I read these words, spoken by God, there were phrases that jumped out at me with a fresh awareness that I need never speak them. “No one was with Me, no one to help, no one to uphold.” On a human level, some might experience such isolation and loneliness, but not in relationship to God. Isaiah 41:10 brings all three concepts to light as God says to each of us who are in Christ, “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you. Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Those are promises of companionship, assistance, and strength.

I use to think of upholding as simply carrying. I found it interesting to see it means to make strong, restore to strength, give strength, strengthen, sustain, encourage, make bold, make firm, make rigid, and make hard. No wonder any believer can voice the words of Paul and say, “I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me!” He literally infuses us with the strength necessary for any task, circumstance, situation, or experience.

To go one step further, it is dawning on me that even when we are not aware of God helping and upholding us, He is doing it. I can look back at difficult challenges in my life and now see that THAT is exactly what He was doing. In the midst of my fears, frustrations, and tears, He never left me to manage on my own. Even when I didn’t relax in His arms, they still held, helped, and upheld me. His grip never loosened. His eye never wondered, His attention never wavered, and His supply never ceased.

Tonight I am reflecting on His moments of upholding and helping me and I am seeing them with clearer vision and insight. No wonder He repeatedly tells us to review and remember. Our past experiences with Him are meant to encourage us in the present as well as the future. What He has done for us and been to us will continue.

So what is it you are needing to be reminded of this evening? God’s presence? God’s help? God’s enabling and strengthening? It may be a situation that has just come upon you or one that you have faced daily for years. It may be in the physical, emotional, or spiritual realm. Whatever it is, take the promises of Isaiah 41:10 as your banner of truth!

Father, You have always been there for me and will continue to be. I rest in Your arms and am renewed, refreshed, and restored. Amen.

Held - Natalie Grant
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2m1HZekCcc

Drawing Near or Pulling Away

And all the people in the synagogue were filled with rage as they heard these things. Luke 4:28 (New American Standard Bible)

Just a few verses earlier the people had their eyes fixed on Jesus, were speaking well of Him, and marveling at His gracious words. They were a captive and receptive audience. So why the sudden change? How could they go from being willing students to attempted murderers? What caused them to close off their hearts and minds to Jesus? He stopped saying what they were comfortable hearing and began telling them truth they refused to acknowledge.

Jesus gave examples of two times in the Old Testament when God chose to send His prophets and His intervention to individuals who were not part of the nation of Israel. Elijah was sent to a widow of Zarephath during a famine and the miracle of provision was realized in her life. Elisha was sent to a leper named Naaman and the miracle of healing took place. These were both non Jews. In the New Testament it was an insult to the Jews to think that God would act on behalf of the Gentiles. So Jesus’ insinuation that the Gospel would be given to the Gentiles because of the unreceptiveness of the Jews was too much for them to accept.

When God’s message and the circumstances of our life don’t turn out the way we want, how do we react? How receptive are we to what God is doing or saying when difficulties come our way? We often find that our preconceived ideas about life and God are revealed by the way we react to unpleasant times in our life. Rather than run to Him when the storms of life come upon us and seek to devastate us, people quite often turn away from Him in anger and refuse the only Source that stands ready to help them.

Throughout the book of Psalms, David voices his hurts, disappointments, and fears but never fails to proclaim God as his refuge, defense, shelter, and rock! No matter how difficult life got and no matter how cruel the people in his life could be, he realized God was the One he could count on, run to, and hide in. While he had no trouble verbalizing the problems of his life, he strengthened himself with praise to the One who held him in His hands. Even when confronted with his own sin, David instantly drew near to the One who could forgive him. What an example!

Father, give me a heart for You. May I be receptive to Your words and Your ways. You alone are my hiding place. Amen.

What To Do Next Time

Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10 (New American Standard Bible)

Although this verse is underlined in my Bible, it has not been one that readily came to mind when I have walked through difficult, painful moments. It has not flowed from my mouth or been reviewed in my mind at times when it would have been beneficial and strengthening to do so. I wish it had! When I faced the darkest valley of my life, I wish I had started each day reading this verse and then reviewing it throughout the day. I believe it would have had a profound effect on me and that it would have weakened the effect of the darkness.

I cannot go back and change the past but I can definitely decide to make this verse a part of my future trials, testings, and tragedies. As I do that, several things will happen. My focus will be directed back toward my Father rather than remaining on my present circumstance. What I choose to look at and dwell on has huge ramifications for either good or bad. When I am consumed with pain, loss, and sorrow it drains me physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Better to have my mind fixed and focused on the One who speaks these words to me. When I feel that the road I am on has become quick sand and my sense of security is gone, this verse will infuse me with strength, confidence, and hope. When I am tempted to think I am all alone and forgotten, this verse will reacquaint me with the truth that God is with me and passionately involved in every aspect of my life. When I want another person to come along side me for support, this verse will remind me that HE is my God and HE will strengthen, help, and uphold me! I need not look any further than at the face, hand, and heart of my Creator, Sustainer, and Abba Father.

I recoil at bumper-sticker phrases that are often given out so glibly. Isaiah 41:10 is the kind of truth I need for hard times. It is filled with promises and assurances. It is imperative that above the roar of approaching storms, the sound of broken hearts and subsequent tears, and the deafening effects of anguish that I keep my ears attentive to the sound of God’s voice as He speaks His Word to me. I am presently walking out of my “valley of tears” but have made up my mind this verse will be a part of my next one when it comes…..and it will come.

Father, may the sound of Your voice be heard loud and clear when I face my next over whelming circumstance. Amen.

Seeing Who It Comes From

Thus says the LORD: “You shall not go up nor fight against your brethren the children of Israel. Let every man return to his house, for this thing is from Me.” Therefore they obeyed the word of the LORD, and turned back, according to the word of the LORD. I Kings 12:24 (New King James Version)

War was diverted among God’s people with this one verse. How essential it is that I allow God to speak these same words over my life in any given situation. For God knows my tendency to focus on the difficult circumstances or people in my life and miss the precious truth of His sovereignty and involvement over and through all things. How easy it can be to fight the very thing that God is either causing or allowing. There is no rest or peace when I choose to resist that which God is doing.

Rather than fight it, God implores me to return to my home, and Psalm 91 reminds me where my home is. It is in the shadow of His wings, for He is to be my dwelling place, refuge, and fortress. God wants me to realize that I am to abide in His presence for my shelter, safety, and security.

As I step into a new day (and month) God desires me to hear Him voice His five word phrase to me on a continual basis. When I face a difficulty, “This thing is from Me.” When I sustain a loss, “This thing is from Me.” When a medical diagnosis threatens to turn my world upside down, “This thing is from Me.” When relationships change, “This thing is from Me.” When disappointment marks my path, “This thing is from Me.” When that which I desire to hold on to slips through my fingers, “This thing is from Me.” When my plans fall apart, “This thing is from Me.” When the storms of life hit hard, “This thing is from Me.” When dreams die, “This thing is from Me.”

As I receive the words He is speaking then I will find the peace that passes all understanding. I will no longer view myself as a victim of other people’s choices and actions. I will stop being consumed with self pity, condemnation, and grief. Each portrait the enemy has painted on the walls of my imagination will be replaced with artwork painted by the sovereign and loving hand of God. I will begin to notice the many positive, uplifting, and encouraging gifts with which God graces my life. And I will experience the truths of Zephaniah 3:17 which say He will quiet me with His love.

Father, there is not a day in my life when I do not need to hear you say these things are from You. I receive them as words spoken from a heart of love and a desire for my good. Amen.

He Still Knows What it is Like

He was despised and rejected and forsaken by men, a Man of sorrows and pains, and acquainted with grief and sickness; and like One from Whom men hide their faces He was despised, and we did not appreciate His worth or have any esteem for Him. Isaiah 53:3 (Amplified Bible)

What is it you take to Jesus today? Is it ever feelings of being seen as worthless and contemptible by others? Rejection and physical or mental pain? Grief and sickness of soul? Feelings of being forgotten, forsaken, and unthought of? We live in a fallen world in the midst of fallen people. Their negative words and actions toward us can often shape the view we have of ourselves and leave us feeling deeply hurt and in pain. If that is you this morning, Jesus has a message for you from today’s verse.

He wants you to know that He experienced the same thing when He walked on this earth and although it was to a greater extent, it does not minimize in His eyes the depth of what you are feeling. He does not let you know of His painful experiences in order to down play or down size your own, but rather to let you know He understands more than any one the full extent of your grief, pain, and difficulty. He, more than anyone, enters into your situation and stays with you. From Him you will never receive unattentiveness, disinterest, or distraction. He gives to you what no person was fully able to give to Him…undivided attention and a full knowledge of where and why you are hurting.

He also wants you to know the words of Isaiah 53:3 not only describe what He experienced here on earth over two centuries ago, but it is what He still experiences from mankind even in the present. He is still despised and rejected by the very ones He reaches out to. He is still fully acquainted with grief and sorrow of heart. He still has people who turn away from him, lack appreciation for Him, and think little of Him. And He feels the way we feel when it happens to us. So when you pour your heart out to Him and share the sorrow with Him, He knows and is filled with compassion for you.

He knows that in this world we have trouble. He knows that we respond to the things we hear, see, feel, and taste of this life. He knows how fragile our internal world is. He knows we lack the ability to see beyond our present circumstances. That is why this morning, I can picture a hurting person being held by Jesus. Gently rocked and tenderly spoken to like a mother with a small child. Held closely and being told, “Precious child of Mine, I hurt with you and I speak My peace and compassion over you.” If we let Him, He will speak the words we need to hear. They will be like balm to our soul. Words of healing and wholeness. Words of understanding. He is a personal God who knows us intimately and takes in every detail of our life.

Jesus, I lift up hurting individuals to You. Convey to them the full meaning of my words this morning. Speak to them as only You can. Amen.

A Different Battle Tactic

For in the day of trouble He will hide me in His shelter; in the secret place of His tent will He hide me; He will set me high upon a rock. Psalm 27:5 (Amplified Bible)

Ask anyone who has been a Christian for any length of time and they will testify to the fact that we are in a battle. Whether it is in the spiritual, physical, or emotional realm of life we are often engaged in battle daily with either the world, the flesh, or the devil. Realizing this truth does not necessarily make it easy but at least it allows us to know who we are fighting against. But that is only half the story. Not only are we in a battle but we have weapons to use while fighting. Ephesians 6 lists the armor we are to put on daily….armor that is both offensive and defensive. There is also the power found in learning to pray Scripture and along with that learning to use our God-given authority. The list goes on and on. It boils down to warfare praying and warfare living.

So I was taken back yesterday when in the midst of what I knew to be an attack, God revealed another aspect that was new for me. As thoughts became dark and emotions ran wild, I sensed His invitation to hide in Him until the storm passed. Rather than a time to fight it became a time to rest. I will be honest with you, I didn’t know that was ever an option. And it worked! In the midst of the battlefield, He became my hiding place and shelter. And within that shelter, He exposed issues of my heart that needed to be addressed. Rather than fight the external forces, He was leading me to deal with some internal forces. And what were they? Fears, disappointments, loneliness, discomfort, wounds. Unless confronted and dealt with they would fester. God in His wisdom removed this soldier from the fight just as a wounded soldier would be removed from the battlefield.

For the entire day I stayed hidden. And when the night fell, the words of honesty poured from my mouth just as the tears fell from my eyes. As the depths of my heart were exposed, His healing balm was applied. What followed was a good night’s rest and a sense of refreshment when I woke. My internal world feels like the calm after the storm. I can almost smell the rain. When my eyes landed on today’s verse I KNEW that was what God had done and I am in awe of Him!

I am always amazed when I turn a spiritual corner and learn a new aspect of God and how He works. He is definitely a God of variety and victory. And I take that truth with me into a new day.

Father, there is so much about You that I still do not know. Thank you for the intentional ways You reveal yourself to me. Amen.

Knowing What Is Ahead

For I will show him how much he must suffer for My name’s sake. Acts 9:16 NASB

God told Moses he would be leading the children of Israel out of Egypt and yet would meet resistance from Pharaoh. God gave Joseph dreams that revealed what lay in his future. God let David know through the prophet Samuel that he would one day be king of Israel. In today’s verse, we see where Saul is being told of the suffering he would face. These are just a few of the examples that come to mind as I consider the times God let His people know of future opportunities or trials. Many times there wasn’t a lot of detail but enough was given to prepare them for what was in store. Does God still do such things today? You bet He does! I am seeing it clearly done in my life as I wade through a present season of pain. Allow me to share it with you and see if you can relate.

Two years ago, God revealed to me something that would be necessary in order to bring about freedom and a fresh awareness of Himself. At the time, I thought it was a command but now I see it was simply a preview. With that thought in mind, He continued to teach me vital truths about Himself and instill within me necessary character qualities. As the time approached for the actual “test” He got more specific. Within a three day span He showed me that He would be pruning me by cutting away a significant aspect of my Christian life, that I needed to focus on Him rather than the past, and that it was essential to learn the truth of abiding in Him. He even gave me a dream one night that left no doubt in my mind as to what He would be doing and why. I did not realize how vital these things were until the reality of the trial hit! Once I saw what was happening I realized God had been preparing me all along.

He wanted me to see that change was necessary, that His hand was in it, that growth would come from it, and that I would survive! I have learned to call Him a gracious God. As He and I wade through the issues and make the necessary adjustments there is a closeness being formed between us. I sense His interest, involvement, and purpose as He develops in me the trust, obedience, and cooperation that is needful for this season of my life. This is not about behavior modification but rather it is about heart transformation and a renewed mind. All that I have learned about Him in recent years is being reviewed and lived out during my present circumstances.

As I step into another day, I know it will be filled with good moments and difficult ones. There will be tears as well as shouts of joy. The process will be painful but productive. And in the end I will know Him as never before.

Father, You have invested much in preparing me for this time. Wonder is replacing fears and tears as You continue to reveal Your person and Your plan. Amen.

God's Solicitude

Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you. I Peter 5:7 (KJV)

Armed with five Bible translations, a Thesaurus, and a couple dictionaries I decided to dig through this verse to find the treasure. It is rich with meaning and has spoken volumes to my heart. To think that I can hand over to God anything and everything that has me in turmoil with the realization that He is interested in me and I matter to Him, leaves me feeling cared for and carried.

Often times our English words are so broad that we can lose their full impact. My cares are my anxieties, worries, concerns, heartaches, turmoil, and burdens. They weigh me down, slow me down, and confine me. They consume my thoughts, deplete my energy, and hold me prisoner. Freedom comes when I realize I can give them over to God because He is attentive to my needs. His care is not one of worry and distress, but rather an affectionate, watchful solicitude. He has thoughtful or hovering attentiveness toward me. Pictures of a mother hen with her chicks or a young mother with an infant come to mind. God’s tenderness astounds me!

It is this truth that will stick with me on days when I feel rejected, abandoned, misunderstood, or unloved. When those who at one time seemed close and caring but now seem distant. When the shoulders that use to be places of refuge have become cold and unavailable. When it feels like the welcome mats to hearts have been pulled in and the door of friendship has slammed shut. When I feel untouchable to the ones who use to embrace me, accept me, and affirm me. In all those times and more, I can now hold to the truth that God Himself hovers over me with tremendous affection, compassion, and fondness. He is always ready to heal my broken heartedness, bandage up my wounded spirit, and release me from all that is troubling my mind.
Tears really can give way to joy as I enter into His rest, His arms, and His compassion. What is given to Him is never rejected. What is spoken to Him is always heard. No one but God can own such acclaim. I not only bow to Him, I hide in Him.

When I fail to see this about God, I so easily view Him as a last resort when I am hurting, worried, or fearful. May I now see Him as my ONLY resort. The One I can run to with confidence.

Father, I am learning to see You with outstretched arms ready to receive my heavy heart and troubled mind. Thank you for such love! Amen.

A Focused Life

For thy loving kindness is before mine eyes: and I have walked in thy truth. Psalm 26:3 (KJV)

What I choose to focus on and walk in makes all the difference in the world to how I will live out my Christian life on a day by day basis. My awareness and acknowledgement of God’s acts of love and kindness are what will keep me from despair when I face the difficulties and disappointments of life. Living my life according to His truth is necessary if I want to live a victorious, confident, and purposeful life. My heart grieves for anyone who is consumed by the dark reality of their life and has believed every lie the enemy has thrown at them.

Today’s verse had to be lived out by such people as David who lived with a threat on his life for years, Joseph who faced rejection and imprisonment, Ruth who faced the death of her husband and famine, Daniel who was given to the lions, the three Hebrew sons who were cast into a fiery furnace, Paul who faced beatings, imprisonment, and persecution, countless Christians who faced (and still face) persecution, torture, and death. No one comes forth as gold unless Psalm 26:3 becomes their mantra on a daily basis.

In order to flesh out this verse I must be willing to see the events, circumstances, and hardships of my life dim in comparison to God’s attentiveness and God’s truth. David said “He daily loads me with benefits.” Am I alert to them? I am told His Word is truth. Am I reading it to find the truth, claim the truth, and walk in the truth? If so, this is what it will look like.

Feelings of rejection will be met with “I will never leave you.” Heartache will be met with “He is the God of all comfort.” Financial difficulties will be met with “My God shall supply all your need.” Guilt will be met with “I have put all your sin behind my back.” There is not a single thing that can happen to me today that God’s Word does not have a response for. His kind acts abound and His truth stands. Whether or not that makes a difference to me is dependent upon what I do with it.

Father, for so long I failed to see Your involvement in my life and I failed to walk in truth. Thank you for giving me a new way to live my Christian life. Thank you for outshining any tragedy and exposing any lie the enemy would seek to use against me today. Amen.

The Power of Conjunctions

Many a time have they afflicted me from my youth; yet they have not prevailed against me. Psalm 129:2 (KJV)

David had a right take on life. He knew how to state the problem as well as stand on the promise! He was not one who feared to acknowledge the truth of his external circumstances or the internal battle of emotions, but that was not his final statement. He was a man of conjunctions! The “yet” of this verse lets the reader know the previous phrase is not the end of the story. It is like saying, “Even though THIS is happening to me it will not do me in.” May I too look for God’s conjunctions in my life.

Afflicted is an interesting word. It comes from the same Hebrew word that means cramp, besiege, bind up, oppress, shut up, trouble, and vex. It is the actions of an enemy who is intent on destroying you. For some that would be the people in their life, the circumstances of their life, or the thoughts that rage within them. But what I must daily realize is that those are merely the tools the enemy of my soul is using against me. He will take anything within reach and present it to me with his own twisted interpretation. He is a master at misrepresentations and false advertisements. He is out to slander God, me, and the people in my life. He will stop at nothing to get me to believe lies, live in defeat, and retreat in hopelessness and tears.

But I have the assurance of God’s Word that he will not prevail. In order to have the victory he must be stronger, predominate, and superior. One need only look at the New Testament twin verse to see that is not the case. For I John 4:4 becomes the battle cry of every believer as it proclaims, “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.”

Last night my thoughts became dark and I could sense myself slipping into an all too familiar pit of despair. The enemy was delighted as long as I curled up with my own thoughts and his lies. But he quickly retreated when I began to proclaim the truth found in God’s Word. All it took was a reminder that he will not prevail.

Father, help me to be more aware of where the thoughts are coming from and who the real enemy is! I cannot afford to listen to him or interpret life through his grid of lies. You are Truth and I trust You alone to define me and interpret the circumstances of my life. Amen.