Words to Live By

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:5,6

Probably aside from John 3:16 and Psalm 23, this part of Proverbs is one of the most familiar verses to many people. While many of us have it memorized and can easily quote it, do we flesh it out in our daily lives? Is it evident in the way we speak, respond, and act? When the storms of life hit, the way becomes unclear, or everything seems to be against us, do we take the words literally as our banner of proclamation and maxim? This morning I want to pull these phrases apart and examine them more closely.

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart. Have full confidence and reliance in God. Often times we put more confidence in people and what they can do for us. We run to them for comfort, advice, assurance, protection, and strength. Take the most profound person you know and they are still limited in what they can do for you. What help they are able to give you is temporary at best (unless they are directing you back to God). That is why when you call them and pour out your heartache to them, the feelings of sadness and loneliness return as soon as you hang up the phone.

Lean not unto thine own understanding. We are so good at trying to figure things out for ourselves. We use our own thoughts, our own feelings, our own interpretation of things to assist us through the mine fields of our life. We rack our brains into the late hours of the night or early hours of the morning mulling over every possible solution we can come up with. We somehow feel the answer lies in us. We believe if we think it through long enough we will come up with a way to fix our life and move forward.

In all thy ways acknowledge him. Recognize and admit the truth about God. Stand on the reality of His power, presence, and protection available to you. The more difficult our situation the more necessary it is to proclaim the truth about Him.

He will direct your paths. We are not on our own. He is involved in the process of bringing us through this life. His promise rests on His character but is also conditional to our trusting, leaning not, and acknowledging. May this passage become my maxim for life!

Father, saying the words can come easy. I must choose to take each step spelled out in the passage. Help me to do that! Amen.

Do I Trust You, Lord - 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.

Asking, Accepting, and Receiving

Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done. And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him. Luke 22:42, 43 (English Standard Version)

I find two interesting things transpiring in this passage. First, Jesus is asking for the removal of something from His life. Many thoughts arise pertaining to what is meant by the “cup” and I am in no position to explain what it means. What I am centering in on is the fact that He asked for its removal. It reminds me of the Apostle Paul asking for his thorn in the flesh to be removed. In both cases, the answer was “No.” God will not remove from our life that which He purposes to be in our life. That which He will use and work through. Removal comes only as God deems it necessary and in line with His ways, will, plans, and purposes. Both Paul and Jesus entrusted their situations to God and desired God’s will to be carried out.

When God’s response is “no” or “wait” it is imperative that we follow the examples of these men and others like them. We must allow God to speak the words of Isaiah 55:8,9 to us, “ For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thought.” God alone knows what He will bring out of the very thing of which He denies the removal. He knows the eternal purposes He will fulfill. Although there may be tears in the midst of bending the knee, when it is all said and done we will come to acknowledge His way was best.

The second thing that stands out to me is that strengthening for Jesus came in the form of an angel. Often are the times when strength and encouragement come to us through the hands of a chosen vessel of God. If Jesus was willing and able to receive the strength in this way, then I can give myself permission to do the same. While I have never (to my knowledge) been strengthened by an angel, I have numerous individuals who come to mind as those who strengthened me. They strengthened me with their words, Scripture, prayer, listening ears, and open arms. They strengthened me with comforting thoughts as well as tough love. They were the hands, heart, and face of Jesus to me in many ways and I lift up a prayer of praise and thanks for them today. How much my life would lack without them.

I leave you with two thoughts. First, Scripture gives us permission to ask for the removal of things from our life as long as we leave the answer to God and desire His will above our own or others. Second, be willing to receive the encouragement God sends in the ways He chooses to send it.

Father, thank you for the times You removed the things I asked. Thank you for the times they remained. Thank you for the ones You have used to encourage me. All three means have shaped my life profoundly. Amen.

Knees to the Earth - Watermark
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-AQL8Zk2sOk&feature=fvw

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

Seeing and Admitting Our Condition

And behold, there was a woman who had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bent over and could in no way raise herself up. Luke 13:11 (New King James Version)


For eighteen years a woman’s body was bent over due to a spirit of infirmity. It was apparent to any who knew her that something was amiss and until Jesus intervened in her life her condition remained unchanged with little hope of improvement. Hers was an obvious and noticeable problem. What of the many who are “bent over” internally? From all outward accounts they seem to have it all together but if they allow you to see beyond the surface one comes to realize their spirit and emotions are far from straight and strong. What does one do when this is their truth? When this is their life?

In the past few years, God has been showing me the steps to take in order to begin standing straight internally and I freely share those steps with you now. First, admit to yourself there is a problem. Something is askew and you have to be willing to see that. Second, desire change. For some of us, what we have grown use to as a way of life has become comfortable and the thought of change can be scary. Yet, desire for change eventually becomes stronger than the satisfaction of remaining unchanged. Third, be willing to ask for help. Learning to open up to a trusted person and accept the truth that will come from advice given takes time to develop but is necessary. Fourth, see that the internal problems may be brought on by physical conditions. Schedule an appointment with a doctor to see whether or not this is a possibility. Fifth, daily ask God to show you practical steps you can take in applying His Word and other truths to your life that will make a difference.

These are not steps that one crosses off their list as they are taken. These are steps that continue to be a part of your life as you work through your weaknesses, places of vulnerability, and areas in need of change. In a week’s time I return to all of them in one way or another. There have been times when friends have admitted to thinking that at one time they thought I had it all together. The more we talked the more they saw my frailties and humanness. I wouldn’t want it any other way, because any noticeable change will be attributed to God.

These devotionals have never been meant to tell someone all the right answers or to make others think I have things all figured out. They are simply an invitation for others to join me on what many times feels like a roller coaster ride of varying speeds and heights. Walk beside me and let’s grow together.

Father, I realize now that it isn’t about appearing strong but being real. Help me to fully celebrate the victories and willingly share the struggles. Under Your care, amen.

The Motions - Matthew West
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OHUppFNjy5E

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

Be Careful

Shout against her on every side! She surrenders, her towers fall, her walls are torn down. Since this is the vengeance of the LORD, take vengeance on her; do to her as she has done to others. Jeremiah 50:15 (New International Version)

Often times, God would use other nations in the process of Israel experiencing the painful consequences of their rebellion against Him. Even in times of correction, God’s intent was that Israel would do an about face and return to Him. To go His way instead of their way. When Babylon was used as a part of God’s correction, however, they took great delight in harshness and cruelty toward God’s chosen people. Little did they know or care that their actions would also be judged by the very One who put them in such a position. Think how different their story would have been had they shown mercy, grace, and love to their captures while they were in their domain.

For any who find themselves in a position of correcting, disciplining, punishing, or penalizing others, be careful how you treat those individuals. It is imperative to remember that although you may be God’s instrument of correction you are still responsible for the way you go about being that instrument. Even in times of war, there are boundaries and laws that set limits on what can be done to prisoners. Many have faced the consequences of their war crimes years after the war ended.

In the case of church discipline or individual confrontations the demeanor and heart of the church or confronter is important to God and noticed by God. How different would the words, actions, and attitudes be if they knew that one day they would be treated the way they treated others? In the case of parents, teachers, and law enforcement officers, do the words, “Do to her what she has done to others” bring fear or rejoicing?

May each of us take stock of how we are interacting with others, especially when we are part of their facing the consequences for wrong doing. May we treat them the way we would want to be treated and in a way that pleases God as He accomplishes His work in them.

Father, I’ve not always gotten this aspect right in my life. For past actions, I ask Your forgiveness. For future actions, I ask for Your help in showing Your heart when I am called upon to be part of another’s need of correction. Amen.

Everlasting God - Lincoln Brewster
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jP2nz6PG8KM

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

Recognizing God's Work in Others

And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that had been given to me, they gave me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, that we should go to the Gentiles and they to the circumcised. Galatians 2:9 (New King James Version)

Oh the preciousness when others can recognize and perceive the work of God in us. Paul and Barnabas were given the right hand of fellowship and the acknowledgement that they should minister to the Gentiles by the pillars of the early church. God’s grace in their life was evident to those who had experienced it themselves. How tragic it would have been had none of the early Christians been able to see that God was active in the lives of others.

While it is true that we are human and have limited perspective, I grow concerned when God’s work in a life is not evident to fellow believers even though He IS working. The opposite is also a concern for me, when people assume (falsely) that someone is on top of it spiritually but in reality they walk empty and aloof of intimacy with God. I have known both examples personally and they have taught me to be discerning with the opinions of others. Just as my perception of others can be dead wrong so can theirs be wrong of me. I must be careful not to let their thoughts replace what I know to be true.

Having said that, I can attest to the fact that once God begins working in a life He will make it very clear to others and they will often be faithful in sharing what they are seeing. I have learned to listen to the affirming and confirming words of others. When numerous people from different walks of life are saying the same thing it gets my attention and I walk with an assurance that changes really are being brought about in me.

While it is important that I keep my ears tuned to God’s voice, He often uses people to help me see things a little clearer. He knows that finding the balance between listening to people and listening to Him is still tricky for me but He will help me get there. In the mean time, I delight in the times someone will pull me aside and say, “I see growth in you.” Because the journey can often be slow and daunting at times, I need the insight of others to help me see what I am not seeing on my own.

Paul and Barnabas did not stake everything on the opinions and acceptance of others, but I am sure it was encouraging to be received by them. May God bless each of us with individuals in our lives who can perceive us accurately and may He allow us to be that for others.

Father, You have often let me know truth through other believers. Thank you for the ones who let me know what they see You doing in me. Help me to be the eyes for others as well. Amen.

Potter's Hand - Darlene Zschech
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aSKe-gSXjAs&feature=related

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

What To Do and How To Do It

Be strong and of a good courage. Joshua 1:6

Three times God speaks this phrase to Joshua in the first chapter of the Old Testament book that bears his name. Moses had died and Joshua assumed the position of leader to the nation of Israel. As he was given the monumental task of leading them across the Jordan River to take possession of the promise land, he was not only told to be strong and have courage but he was told the basis for that strength and courage.

Right from the start God assured him of His presence, provision, and power. Then He told him to meditate on His Word and to obey His commands. These were the conditions upon which success and prosperity lay. Without an awareness of God’s presence and a reliance upon His direction there would be no victory.

Whatever task or trial lies before me today, next week, next month, or next year, I must realize these same truths apply to me. I must not only live with an awareness of God’s presence, but I must abide in it. God must be my primary source for direction, protection, and provision. I must know the truth of His character, heart, and mind. That can only be found in His Word. As I spend time in His Word and meditate upon it through out the day, I am brought into an awareness of His step by step direction for me. His Word not only has commands to follow, but promises to claim, instructions to heed, and wisdom to glean. It is alive and applicable to me.

God wants me to hear the same thing Joshua needed to hear. I am to keep my eyes and my mind on Him. What or who I choose to look at and follow and what I choose to think on will have profound effects on my actions. They will set the direction for my entire day. When I am focused on listening to Him, He speaks. When I am determined to obey Him, He leads. When I choose to stay close to Him, He astounds me with His presence. The amazing thing is that He willingly gives me the desire and ability to do all of this and more. None of this is simply my own self effort and behavior modification. It is brought about by His Spirit working in me as I cooperate with Him. The internal changes that lead to external changes are the results of living in relationship with Him.

Father, You have told me what to do and how to do it. I look to You for the ability to follow and listen to You. I don’t want to miss a thing! At the end of the day may I realize the victories that were mine! Amen.

All to Jesus I Surrender - Robin Mark
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hO3BouKCtDs

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

How Teachable Am I?

When Peter came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he was clearly in the wrong. Galatians 2:11 (New International Version)

Have you ever had someone point out an area in your life that needs to change? Have you ever been the one who had to do the pointing out? Most of us are not comfortable in either role, but maybe that is because we fail to appreciate the necessity of it at times. When Paul saw Peter’s hypocrisy, as stated in Galatians 2:12, and the effects it was having on both Jews and Gentiles, he did the right thing. He confronted Peter and let him know in no uncertain terms that he was in the wrong. We are not told what Peter’s reaction was but I believe that by this point he had developed a teachable spirit. Paul had not told him anything he did not already know and the confrontation would have been enough to direct him toward necessary change. Paul was simply being a “truth teller” and Peter was to be the recipient of that truth.

I have been a student of Scripture long enough to know that God wants to get more mileage out of this passage than just what pertains to Paul and Peter. He wants me to bring it into the present and allow Him to develop in me the quality of being teachable when someone has to pinpoint areas in my own life. He wants to get me past the hurt feelings, the taking it personal, the sense of shame, the squirming, as well as the desire to run and hide. He wants me to be willing to hear and accept the truth from those who are willing to tell me the truth about things that need to change in me especially when it comes to attitudes of the heart.

There are really only two options for me when it comes to taking in truth. Either I can be willing to hear it from the Holy Spirit and act upon it or I can wait until God determines it is time to bring people along to tell me to my face what I am trying to avoid hearing from Him. Up until now that has been a terrifying thought for me, but only because I have bought into false ideas of what they are saying and why they are saying it. God’s heart as well as theirs is for my good and eventual growth. He is giving them the discernment to know what is hindering that growth. I need to see their words as gifts rather than reasons to cringe.

In the privacy of my home when my spirits are high this all sounds easy. I know though, that the real test will come the next time I am living more in the flesh than in the Spirit and the confrontation comes. Will I be receptive? Will I be teachable? Will I be grateful? I pray so and I ask God to begin now to prepare me.

Father, I want to be teachable and approachable in times of weakness. Help me to want truth and help more than any attitudes of my heart that are not of You. Amen.

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

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