What He Sees

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coming Continually

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Emotionally Driven

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

He Hasn't Changed

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

My Help Comes From the Lord

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Every False Way

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When the Ending Has Not Been Written Yet

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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