For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.
-Jeremiah 29:11
I know that God has given you great dreams. No doubt, He has made you great promises. Promises that your marriage will be dynamic. Promises that your finances will be stable and even flourish. Promises that your gifts will indeed make room for you. Yet, sometimes in the midst of those promises we have questions. Many of us wonder when. When will it come to pass? When will our time come? When will the hard stuff be over. Some of us wonder why. Why must we go through some things before we attain the promise? Why must we endure the hard stuff? I think I have asked all of those questions, but you know the one question that sometimes keeps me stuck: How? Not when...not why...but how? How God? How is what you promised going to come about from what I see? How am I going to get from where I am to what you showed me? How are things going to line up? How: in what manner and by what means? Have you ever wondered how things are going to happen? This is what God showed me this morning, though. When I get stuck on how things are going to happen I am not trusting Him. When I get stuck on how I am putting the weight of executing His plan on me instead of on Him. I am relying on my own strength instead of His. I think that I have to make something happen instead of allowing Him to make it happen through me. When I continue to try to figure out how I am trusting in my abilities instead of His, and it is obvious that my abilities pale in comparison. Here is the good news for you today: How is none of your concern! Did you get that? It is not for you to worry about. God will take care of the manner and means by which things happen for you. Your role is simply to trust and obey Him. So, I encourage you to embrace this phrase: I don't know. I know it's not comfortable to admit, but there is freedom in it if you will accept it. I don't know. I don't know how God is going to bring forth the ministry He has given me. I don't know how God is going to do the impossible in my life. I don't know how He is going to take my marriage to the next level. I don't know how He is going to cause my finances to flourish. I don't know how, but I know Him! I know that He is the answer. I know that His promises are yes and amen. I know that He has a good plan to prosper me. I know that He is not a liar. I know that He promises to perfect everything that concerns me. I know Him. Rest in that. You may not know how, but you know Him! He does not disappoint. He is faithful and consistent. Stop trying to figure out how and simply follow the next set of instructions He gives you. That's your part -- seek Him and obey what He tells you. As this year draws to a close, focus on knowing and loving Him. Trust Him to reveal His plans as you obey each step.
Monday, December 19, 2016
Monday, December 12, 2016
Monday's Marriage Moment -- Choose Now
Proverbs 6:4 (NLT)
Don't put it off; do it now! Don't rest until you do!
As the year draws to a close many are pondering 2017. Some have great expectations. Others are thinking of what they are going to accomplish next year that didn't quite happen in this. Many are considering what resolutions they will make. Often as Christians we act as if people shouldn't make resolutions. I have no problem with them. I just wonder why we only do it at the beginning of the year. Actually, I don't wonder. I totally understand. It's the same reason that I wait until Monday to change my eating habits. It's the reason that I wait until the summer to begin an exercise plan. Why do I wait? Why not decide right now to do something different, be different, or live differently? I wait because sometimes it seems easier to do it later. I wait because I have fed my flesh so long that it is hard to yield to the Spirit in some areas. I wait because sometimes acting on what I know is hard. There is a word for that -- procrastination. It means to delay, stall, or put off. This isn't waiting on the Lord. No, it's not doing what you know to do just because you don't want to. The problem with procrastination (and there are many) is that it renders you ineffective and motionless. You are stopped, stalled, and stagnant as you succumb to procrastination. The issue that needs to be addressed doesn't go away, and sometimes it becomes harder to do than it would have been. Procrastination is a strong enemy. But realize that it is just that -- an enemy. Therefore, it must be defeated. So, I am choosing now, with 19 more days in 2016 to overcome procrastination. I will not be enslaved to it or enticed by it. I will take the steps necessary to be effective in my marriage, ministry, and life. Maybe procrastination isn't your thing, but I still want you to choose now to do what God is telling you to do. The bible is full of promises on the importance of "now" and "today". Don't wait, dear friend. Act now. In the words of the author of Proverbs: Don't put it off; do it no! Don't rest until you do!
Don't put it off; do it now! Don't rest until you do!
As the year draws to a close many are pondering 2017. Some have great expectations. Others are thinking of what they are going to accomplish next year that didn't quite happen in this. Many are considering what resolutions they will make. Often as Christians we act as if people shouldn't make resolutions. I have no problem with them. I just wonder why we only do it at the beginning of the year. Actually, I don't wonder. I totally understand. It's the same reason that I wait until Monday to change my eating habits. It's the reason that I wait until the summer to begin an exercise plan. Why do I wait? Why not decide right now to do something different, be different, or live differently? I wait because sometimes it seems easier to do it later. I wait because I have fed my flesh so long that it is hard to yield to the Spirit in some areas. I wait because sometimes acting on what I know is hard. There is a word for that -- procrastination. It means to delay, stall, or put off. This isn't waiting on the Lord. No, it's not doing what you know to do just because you don't want to. The problem with procrastination (and there are many) is that it renders you ineffective and motionless. You are stopped, stalled, and stagnant as you succumb to procrastination. The issue that needs to be addressed doesn't go away, and sometimes it becomes harder to do than it would have been. Procrastination is a strong enemy. But realize that it is just that -- an enemy. Therefore, it must be defeated. So, I am choosing now, with 19 more days in 2016 to overcome procrastination. I will not be enslaved to it or enticed by it. I will take the steps necessary to be effective in my marriage, ministry, and life. Maybe procrastination isn't your thing, but I still want you to choose now to do what God is telling you to do. The bible is full of promises on the importance of "now" and "today". Don't wait, dear friend. Act now. In the words of the author of Proverbs: Don't put it off; do it no! Don't rest until you do!
Monday, December 5, 2016
Monday's Marriage Moment -- Still Good!
Though the fig tree may not blossom, Nor fruit be on the vines; Though the labor of the olive may fail, And the fields yield no food; Though the flock may be cut off from the fold, And there be no herd in the stalls—
Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation.
The Lord God[c] is my strength; He will make my feet like deer’s feet,
And He will make me walk on my high hills.
Habakkuk 3: 17 - 19
One of my favorite songs currently is "Arise" by William Murphy. The song speaks of the goodness of the Lord in general, but one line in particular blesses me: You are good, so good, real good, still good". Look at the last two words again: STILL good. Do you know what still means in this context? It means "and yet; but yet; nevertheless; nonetheless;" and get this "even with everything considered". Even with everything considered God is good. Perhaps this has been a season of sunshine and lollipops for you, but there are a few of us that have had some clouds in the midst of sunshine and some broccoli thrown in with those lollipops. Can I remind those of you who have had some struggles and challenges that God is STILL good? Even when we consider everything: financial issues, job issues, marital issues, and so much more, God is still good. Maybe your spouse is not perfect right now, but God is still good. Maybe you are still trying to conquer some issues in your marriage, but God is still good. Maybe you are facing challenges at work, at school, and/or at home, but God is STILL good. Look at Habakkuk's situation. Things in his life that should have produced were barren. They were not working according to plan and purpose. He is describing a hard time. Yet, he purposed in his heart and even declared that regardless of the situation, EVEN WITH EVERYTHING CONSIDERED, he was going to rejoice in the Lord. I submit to you that we must do the same. This year has been challenging for me. There has been shift and transition all around. I have had months of struggle and many times I did not understand why I was going through. Yet, I can tell you that through it all God was STILL good. John and I are leaving this year much stronger in all areas than when we entered it because God is STILL good. I determined that my circumstances were not going to effect how I perceived God, but God was going to effect how I perceived my circumstances. I challenge you today, with only 26 days left in this year, to focus on God and His goodness. Call to mind all that He has been to you and all that He has done for you. Determine to set your thoughts above your reality. Declare that not only is your marriage good, but that your life is good! God's plan for you is good! Your finances are good! All of this is because He is good. No matter what, He is STILL good!
Monday, November 28, 2016
Monday's Marriage Moment -- Out of Order?
“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My
ways,” says the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My
ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.
Isaiah 55: 8
- 10
The dictionary
defines "out of order" as: not working properly or at all. When
something is not functioning as it should we determine that it is out of order.
We have all seen these signs on soda machines and other equipment. Many times
these signs bring us frustration. You want to get a cold drink, but the machine
is out of order. You want a milkshake from your favorite restaurant, but the
mixer is out of order. You want to make copies, but the copier is out of order.
There is nothing like expecting something to function and produce only to find
out that it doesn't produce in the way that you wanted it to. Many times in the
body of Christ we use the term out of order to describe someone who is not
functioning the way we think they should. Maybe they didn't follow the proper
protocols and procedures. Or maybe they did something without consulting the
"proper authorities". After all, we like things to fit in nice, neat
little packages. Could it be that sometimes when we are saying things (or
people) are out of order it's really just user error? I have seen it happen
numerous times. Someone says the copier in the office is broken, but it turns
out the person didn't use it correctly. Maybe they didn't recognize that it was
simply out of paper or the toner needed to be replaced. They didn't know how to
fix it, so it was easier to say that it was out of order than to consult the
manual and actually find out how to repair it. That would take time and effort.
Might I suggest that instead of slapping "out of order" signs on
things (and people) that we consult with the manufacturer. If you feel that
your relationship is out of order, perhaps you need to consult the ultimate
manual, your bible, to determine how to best repair it. There are tons of
scriptures on friendships, family relationships, and marriage. Before you
determine that the relationship is broken beyond repair, find out what God says
about it. His ways and thoughts are higher than ours. He sees from a much wider
perspective than we do. Maybe what seems out of order to you is a work in
progress to Him. Friendships, relationships, for that matter people in general,
take a lot of time and investment in order to be fruitful. Be willing to invest
that time before you call it broken and walk away. There could be a simple fix.
Monday, November 21, 2016
Monday's Marriage Moment -- Adapt!
I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
-Philippians 4:12 - 13
Charles Darwin is often incorrectly credited with this quote: It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent that survives. It is the one most adaptable to change. I don't ascribe to Darwin's theories of evolution by any means, but I certainly believe there is merit to this quote (whether he actually said it or not). As someone who loves consistency and predictably, I find it challenging to write these words. Nevertheless, if we want successful marriages, or relationships in general, we must be adaptable. Your spouse today is not the same person you married years ago. Prayerfully, they have grown and changed for the better. That means that we must do likewise if we want to maintain a great relationship. John and I have been married for 17 years. In that time, we have had more children, job changes, home changes, and church changes. We have moved cities and gained and lost acquaintances. The way our marriage looks today is drastically different than it looked 17 years ago. I don't know if we would have made it without either of us adapting. God has consistently been showing me areas that need me to adapt even more. Adapt doesn't mean that I give up who I am for someone else. It means to become adjusted to new conditions. When John had a career change I had to become adjusted to new conditions. When I had a career change, John had to become adjusted to new conditions. Neither of us can say we refuse to adjust if we want the marriage to work. We can't say I am going this far, but I will not change anything else ever. No, that is not marriage. Nor is it a good reflection of Christ's relationship with us. Yes, He is the God who changes not, but He is perfect and, therefore, has no need to change. You and I, dear sister and brother, have lots of room to change. We have to be flexible and adaptable. The apostle Paul wasn't married, but in the scripture above, he offers us great advice. He said he knew how to be abased and how to abound. He knew how to be full and hungry, to have what he needed and to lack some things. What is he really saying? He knows how to adapt to the situation. In our marriages there will be great times and challenging times. There will be times when the husbands are leading beautifully and times when they need support. There will be times when the wives are effective in their roles and times when they need support. We have to adapt to all of those times knowing that we can do it as God gives us strength. Charles Darwin's premise was that if an organism doesn't adapt to changing conditions they would end up extinct -- adapt or die. Our marriages are living organisms that must respond to changing conditions. Whatever area the Lord is asking you to adapt or be flexible in I implore you to listen. The health, the very life of your marriage, may depend on it. Blessings!
-Philippians 4:12 - 13
Charles Darwin is often incorrectly credited with this quote: It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent that survives. It is the one most adaptable to change. I don't ascribe to Darwin's theories of evolution by any means, but I certainly believe there is merit to this quote (whether he actually said it or not). As someone who loves consistency and predictably, I find it challenging to write these words. Nevertheless, if we want successful marriages, or relationships in general, we must be adaptable. Your spouse today is not the same person you married years ago. Prayerfully, they have grown and changed for the better. That means that we must do likewise if we want to maintain a great relationship. John and I have been married for 17 years. In that time, we have had more children, job changes, home changes, and church changes. We have moved cities and gained and lost acquaintances. The way our marriage looks today is drastically different than it looked 17 years ago. I don't know if we would have made it without either of us adapting. God has consistently been showing me areas that need me to adapt even more. Adapt doesn't mean that I give up who I am for someone else. It means to become adjusted to new conditions. When John had a career change I had to become adjusted to new conditions. When I had a career change, John had to become adjusted to new conditions. Neither of us can say we refuse to adjust if we want the marriage to work. We can't say I am going this far, but I will not change anything else ever. No, that is not marriage. Nor is it a good reflection of Christ's relationship with us. Yes, He is the God who changes not, but He is perfect and, therefore, has no need to change. You and I, dear sister and brother, have lots of room to change. We have to be flexible and adaptable. The apostle Paul wasn't married, but in the scripture above, he offers us great advice. He said he knew how to be abased and how to abound. He knew how to be full and hungry, to have what he needed and to lack some things. What is he really saying? He knows how to adapt to the situation. In our marriages there will be great times and challenging times. There will be times when the husbands are leading beautifully and times when they need support. There will be times when the wives are effective in their roles and times when they need support. We have to adapt to all of those times knowing that we can do it as God gives us strength. Charles Darwin's premise was that if an organism doesn't adapt to changing conditions they would end up extinct -- adapt or die. Our marriages are living organisms that must respond to changing conditions. Whatever area the Lord is asking you to adapt or be flexible in I implore you to listen. The health, the very life of your marriage, may depend on it. Blessings!
Monday, November 14, 2016
Monday's Marriage Moment -- Radical Surgery
I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. -- Ezekiel 36:26
Surgery is a radical process. It doesn't matter if you are having a wisdom tooth or a gall bladder removed -- both are radical processes. It requires both "prep" time and recovery time. If we are going to be all that God has called us to be we will experience some radical surgery. He will remove some things from our lives. Some of them are bad things; things that would slowly kill us if left unchecked. Cancerous things like bitterness, anger, and unforgiveness. Some things are not deadly in and of themselves, but they don't need to stay -- warts, bunions, and unsightly hair. These are things that just aren't good for you: procrastination, slothfulness, and wanting things your own way. It is my belief that God is performing some radical surgeries in our individual lives so that we can be more productive and effective in our marriages, our careers, and in our lives in our general. Perhaps you are in pre-op: this is the time when you meet with your doctors to discuss your condition. Maybe God has been talking to you about what He is getting ready to remove. Maybe He has been discussing your "condition" with you, and telling you the dangers if surgery does not take place. Maybe He has been telling you to fast before surgery like most doctors do. You have to have an empty stomach before surgery so that you don't vomit during surgery which could be lethal. Maybe you are in the operating room and the anesthesia is being given. Anesthesia is used so that you won't feel the pain of the cutting and removal. Has he numbed you in some way to your environment or surroundings? Has what used to irritate and bother stopped frustrating you? Have you stopped fretting over stuff that used to send you into a tirade for days? It could be a local anesthetic that just affects a centralized area or a general anesthetic that affects your entire life. What area is He about to perform surgery on? Maybe the surgery has already taken place and you are in recovery. We often think that when the surgery is over we are 100%. Not so! Immediately after surgery you are wheeled into a recovery room. Sometimes patients feel groggy after surgery. They may be unaware of what happened. Others may still feel some tenderness in certain areas, but the issue still has been removed. Sometimes patients need days or weeks of rest to be able to return to normal duties. Whether you are in pre-op, surgery, or post-op, I encourage you to follow the directions of your Primary Doctor -- Jesus. He alone knows the specifics of your needs. Determine where you are in the process and follow His orders to the letter. He is giving you newness. He is replacing all that is old, hardened, and useless. Be careful not to reject what He has given you!
Surgery is a radical process. It doesn't matter if you are having a wisdom tooth or a gall bladder removed -- both are radical processes. It requires both "prep" time and recovery time. If we are going to be all that God has called us to be we will experience some radical surgery. He will remove some things from our lives. Some of them are bad things; things that would slowly kill us if left unchecked. Cancerous things like bitterness, anger, and unforgiveness. Some things are not deadly in and of themselves, but they don't need to stay -- warts, bunions, and unsightly hair. These are things that just aren't good for you: procrastination, slothfulness, and wanting things your own way. It is my belief that God is performing some radical surgeries in our individual lives so that we can be more productive and effective in our marriages, our careers, and in our lives in our general. Perhaps you are in pre-op: this is the time when you meet with your doctors to discuss your condition. Maybe God has been talking to you about what He is getting ready to remove. Maybe He has been discussing your "condition" with you, and telling you the dangers if surgery does not take place. Maybe He has been telling you to fast before surgery like most doctors do. You have to have an empty stomach before surgery so that you don't vomit during surgery which could be lethal. Maybe you are in the operating room and the anesthesia is being given. Anesthesia is used so that you won't feel the pain of the cutting and removal. Has he numbed you in some way to your environment or surroundings? Has what used to irritate and bother stopped frustrating you? Have you stopped fretting over stuff that used to send you into a tirade for days? It could be a local anesthetic that just affects a centralized area or a general anesthetic that affects your entire life. What area is He about to perform surgery on? Maybe the surgery has already taken place and you are in recovery. We often think that when the surgery is over we are 100%. Not so! Immediately after surgery you are wheeled into a recovery room. Sometimes patients feel groggy after surgery. They may be unaware of what happened. Others may still feel some tenderness in certain areas, but the issue still has been removed. Sometimes patients need days or weeks of rest to be able to return to normal duties. Whether you are in pre-op, surgery, or post-op, I encourage you to follow the directions of your Primary Doctor -- Jesus. He alone knows the specifics of your needs. Determine where you are in the process and follow His orders to the letter. He is giving you newness. He is replacing all that is old, hardened, and useless. Be careful not to reject what He has given you!
Monday, October 31, 2016
Monday's Marriage Moment -- Be Intentional
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
-Romans 8:28
I am preparing for a trip, and I am being super diligent about making sure that things are prepared for my family while I am gone. I am making sure clothes are laid out for Malia (left to her and her dad who knows what she will wear to school). I am making sure things are ready for John to prepare dinner. I am making sure he has a list of events and activities while I am gone. I am being intentional about making things simple and easy for John while I am gone. I couldn't help but realize, however, that I am not this intentional under normal circumstances. Why don't I have this same diligence for the times that we are together? Why am I not intentional about preparations for the week to make things are simple for him on a normal basis. Don't get me wrong, I never try to make things hard for my husband, but I know that I am not this focused and intentional on a regular basis. Intentional means done on purpose or deliberate. We sing about God being intentional -- we want to know that He is working all things out for our good. Yet, are we demonstrating that with our spouses? Are we making sure that we are deliberate with our actions and choices so that they work out for their good. Are we deliberate with our time? Do we maximize it so that time spent with them is of good quality? Are we intentional with our words? Do we ensure that they are loving and purposeful? Are we intentional in meeting their needs and desires? Yes, we certainly know that all things work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purposes, but since we are heirs of Christ and his ambassadors on earth shouldn't we demonstrate that same sense to our spouses? I am confident that you are doing well in this area, but can't we all come up a little higher? Challenge yourself this week to be intentional in demonstrating your love and appreciation for your spouse. I am sure the results will work for your good!
-Romans 8:28
I am preparing for a trip, and I am being super diligent about making sure that things are prepared for my family while I am gone. I am making sure clothes are laid out for Malia (left to her and her dad who knows what she will wear to school). I am making sure things are ready for John to prepare dinner. I am making sure he has a list of events and activities while I am gone. I am being intentional about making things simple and easy for John while I am gone. I couldn't help but realize, however, that I am not this intentional under normal circumstances. Why don't I have this same diligence for the times that we are together? Why am I not intentional about preparations for the week to make things are simple for him on a normal basis. Don't get me wrong, I never try to make things hard for my husband, but I know that I am not this focused and intentional on a regular basis. Intentional means done on purpose or deliberate. We sing about God being intentional -- we want to know that He is working all things out for our good. Yet, are we demonstrating that with our spouses? Are we making sure that we are deliberate with our actions and choices so that they work out for their good. Are we deliberate with our time? Do we maximize it so that time spent with them is of good quality? Are we intentional with our words? Do we ensure that they are loving and purposeful? Are we intentional in meeting their needs and desires? Yes, we certainly know that all things work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purposes, but since we are heirs of Christ and his ambassadors on earth shouldn't we demonstrate that same sense to our spouses? I am confident that you are doing well in this area, but can't we all come up a little higher? Challenge yourself this week to be intentional in demonstrating your love and appreciation for your spouse. I am sure the results will work for your good!
Monday, October 24, 2016
Monday's Marriage Moment -- Stronger Together!
We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.
-Romans 15:1
Today is one of those days that I realized how beautiful marriage truly is. John had an accident today and lacerated two fingers on his dominant hand. After a significant amount of time in the ER, and considerable pain meds and stitches, he is resting well. He was a trooper through several injections, multiple pokings and proddings of the injured fingers, and repeating the same information over and over. While he soldiered through there were still some things that he could not effectively accomplish. He couldn't take his jacket on and off. He couldn't sign his name. He couldn't drive. He needed my help. I had the privilege of being strong in areas that, at least for today, he was not so strong. I had to be his hands in several instances. I didn't complain because he wasn't able to do things. I was happy to assist John in his time of need. I began to think of all the areas that he is strong in that I am not: seeing big picture, problem solving, not worrying, and the list goes on and on. Maybe you are the more organized spouse. Perhaps you are better with money. Maybe you are better with managing the details of the home. Don't belittle your spouse or complain because that is not your spouse's strength. Thank God that it is yours. Then thank Him for the areas that your spouse is strong and you need support. God has united us with mates that complement our strengths and supplement our weaknesses. He says it beautifully in Ecclesiastes 4:9, 10 -- two are better than one; because they have a reward for their labor. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. Covenant Keepers, you are not alone. You definitely have someone to help you up! Let's spend this week lifting and covering our spouses.
-Romans 15:1
Today is one of those days that I realized how beautiful marriage truly is. John had an accident today and lacerated two fingers on his dominant hand. After a significant amount of time in the ER, and considerable pain meds and stitches, he is resting well. He was a trooper through several injections, multiple pokings and proddings of the injured fingers, and repeating the same information over and over. While he soldiered through there were still some things that he could not effectively accomplish. He couldn't take his jacket on and off. He couldn't sign his name. He couldn't drive. He needed my help. I had the privilege of being strong in areas that, at least for today, he was not so strong. I had to be his hands in several instances. I didn't complain because he wasn't able to do things. I was happy to assist John in his time of need. I began to think of all the areas that he is strong in that I am not: seeing big picture, problem solving, not worrying, and the list goes on and on. Maybe you are the more organized spouse. Perhaps you are better with money. Maybe you are better with managing the details of the home. Don't belittle your spouse or complain because that is not your spouse's strength. Thank God that it is yours. Then thank Him for the areas that your spouse is strong and you need support. God has united us with mates that complement our strengths and supplement our weaknesses. He says it beautifully in Ecclesiastes 4:9, 10 -- two are better than one; because they have a reward for their labor. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. Covenant Keepers, you are not alone. You definitely have someone to help you up! Let's spend this week lifting and covering our spouses.
Monday, October 10, 2016
Monday's Marriage Moment -- He is a Keeper
You are my hiding place; You shall preserve me from trouble; You shall surround me with songs of deliverance. Selah
-Psalm 32:7
God is a keeper. He is a preserver. He is a restorer and a repairer. As I look at photos and videos from my hometown I can see that God is a keeper. Roads have been washed away. Homes have been flooded. Cars have been submerged and abandoned. Yet, other than loss of power and minor property damage, my loved ones are safe. Hurricane Matthew has been a great reminder that God is a shelter in the time of storm. I thought of the great keeping power of God so much this weekend as I watch my husband serve. I remember early in my marriage desiring that my husband would go to church with me. I remember praying that we would be able to serve together, and that he would develop a thriving and personal relationship with God. I remember the many acts of manipulation and foolery I did to try to make him do what I thought he should do. I am so glad that I didn't push him away. It would be easy for me to say that I have always been the perfect one. After all, I have been in relationship with the Lord for years, but that would not be true. Yet, God, has kept us. This weekend I watched my husband get up early to go serve the women at church. I watched him take a nap so that he could get back up later to check on some minor flooding that was happening at the church. I have watched him over the last few months call and encourage men to come out and fellowship. I have seen him minister to men who were lost and hurting. I have witnessed him becoming the man that God created him to be. All of this happened without my interference other than praying and believing. What is my point? God is a keeper. Even in the midst of external challenges God has not just kept my marriage, but He has blessed it. He has kept John and I together, and He has grown us through the process. It is my belief that He can keep you and your marriage as well. That is why I am so passionate about marriage in the body of Christ. I know first hand that God can do amazing things if we submit to Him. Whatever you may be facing today know that God is able to keep you. He is able to restore you. He is able to grow and strengthen you. If you and your spouse are willing participants, God is able to take your marriage to an amazing level. The challenge, if you are willing to accept it, is to cast your care upon the Lord--pray and trust Him--and leave it there. Let God keep you. Let Him be God, and you be His willing servant. He is a keeper!
-Psalm 32:7
God is a keeper. He is a preserver. He is a restorer and a repairer. As I look at photos and videos from my hometown I can see that God is a keeper. Roads have been washed away. Homes have been flooded. Cars have been submerged and abandoned. Yet, other than loss of power and minor property damage, my loved ones are safe. Hurricane Matthew has been a great reminder that God is a shelter in the time of storm. I thought of the great keeping power of God so much this weekend as I watch my husband serve. I remember early in my marriage desiring that my husband would go to church with me. I remember praying that we would be able to serve together, and that he would develop a thriving and personal relationship with God. I remember the many acts of manipulation and foolery I did to try to make him do what I thought he should do. I am so glad that I didn't push him away. It would be easy for me to say that I have always been the perfect one. After all, I have been in relationship with the Lord for years, but that would not be true. Yet, God, has kept us. This weekend I watched my husband get up early to go serve the women at church. I watched him take a nap so that he could get back up later to check on some minor flooding that was happening at the church. I have watched him over the last few months call and encourage men to come out and fellowship. I have seen him minister to men who were lost and hurting. I have witnessed him becoming the man that God created him to be. All of this happened without my interference other than praying and believing. What is my point? God is a keeper. Even in the midst of external challenges God has not just kept my marriage, but He has blessed it. He has kept John and I together, and He has grown us through the process. It is my belief that He can keep you and your marriage as well. That is why I am so passionate about marriage in the body of Christ. I know first hand that God can do amazing things if we submit to Him. Whatever you may be facing today know that God is able to keep you. He is able to restore you. He is able to grow and strengthen you. If you and your spouse are willing participants, God is able to take your marriage to an amazing level. The challenge, if you are willing to accept it, is to cast your care upon the Lord--pray and trust Him--and leave it there. Let God keep you. Let Him be God, and you be His willing servant. He is a keeper!
Monday, October 3, 2016
Monday's Marriage Moment -- Start Over
Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:22 - 23
My computer crashed this weekend. Note that I did not say that the battery died, or it needs a new charger. No, it crashed. Everything that I have saved on the hard drive of that computer (several years of information, documents, plans, etc.) is gone. My draft for my next book -- gone. Sermons I have ministered over the years -- gone. Letters and files -- all gone. Even a presentation that I needed for work this morning -- gone. So, I have a choice to make. I can lay down on the floor of my office and have a good old "hissy fit" complete with screaming and crying, or I can start over. I can take the new computer that I have now and simply begin again. Yes, I am frustrated and saddened by all the things that are gone, but I realize there is absolutely nothing I can do about it. Crying won't change it. Fussing won't change it. There is nothing that I can do to change it. So, I choose to move forward. I'll start the book over. I'll try to salvage documents that I have emailed to people, and then I will create new ones as needed. I'll learn the lesson that losing all that information taught me (save everything to an external drive or drop box!!!), and I will move on. Do you feel like you have lost some things over the years? Have you put lots of time and energy into something only to realize that whatever it is has "crashed"? Start over! I am sure that there are areas in your life that need a fresh start anyway! Who says that you can't have a fresh start in your marriage whether you have been married 2 years or 20 years? Who says you can't have a fresh start in your ministry? You can. Determine that whatever is gone is really gone. Pick up the pieces, learn the lessons, and move forward. There is so much life left to be lived. So many dreams left to see fulfilled. Don't spend one more day focusing on what was or what you lost. Focus instead on the opportunities that you have in front of you. Determine to start your day over. Start your week over. Start the rest of your life over. God gives us new mercies everyday. We need to take full advantage of them. Maybe your morning had a rough start. Can you begin again now? Leave the events of this morning behind and determine to have a great day going forward. Maybe your spouse said something that bothered you. Can you choose to start over with them and move forward? Whatever the case may be, you can start over!
Lamentations 3:22 - 23
My computer crashed this weekend. Note that I did not say that the battery died, or it needs a new charger. No, it crashed. Everything that I have saved on the hard drive of that computer (several years of information, documents, plans, etc.) is gone. My draft for my next book -- gone. Sermons I have ministered over the years -- gone. Letters and files -- all gone. Even a presentation that I needed for work this morning -- gone. So, I have a choice to make. I can lay down on the floor of my office and have a good old "hissy fit" complete with screaming and crying, or I can start over. I can take the new computer that I have now and simply begin again. Yes, I am frustrated and saddened by all the things that are gone, but I realize there is absolutely nothing I can do about it. Crying won't change it. Fussing won't change it. There is nothing that I can do to change it. So, I choose to move forward. I'll start the book over. I'll try to salvage documents that I have emailed to people, and then I will create new ones as needed. I'll learn the lesson that losing all that information taught me (save everything to an external drive or drop box!!!), and I will move on. Do you feel like you have lost some things over the years? Have you put lots of time and energy into something only to realize that whatever it is has "crashed"? Start over! I am sure that there are areas in your life that need a fresh start anyway! Who says that you can't have a fresh start in your marriage whether you have been married 2 years or 20 years? Who says you can't have a fresh start in your ministry? You can. Determine that whatever is gone is really gone. Pick up the pieces, learn the lessons, and move forward. There is so much life left to be lived. So many dreams left to see fulfilled. Don't spend one more day focusing on what was or what you lost. Focus instead on the opportunities that you have in front of you. Determine to start your day over. Start your week over. Start the rest of your life over. God gives us new mercies everyday. We need to take full advantage of them. Maybe your morning had a rough start. Can you begin again now? Leave the events of this morning behind and determine to have a great day going forward. Maybe your spouse said something that bothered you. Can you choose to start over with them and move forward? Whatever the case may be, you can start over!
Monday, September 26, 2016
It's Pruning Time!
I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every
branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that
bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. You are already clean
because of the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in Me, and I in you. As
the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither
can you, unless you abide in Me.
-John 15:1 - 4
God desires that we bear fruit. He wants us to produce both
tangibly and intangibly so that others are affected by our lives. In order for
us to bear fruit, we have to be pruned, however. In gardening, pruning is the
process by which dead or overgrown branches or stems are cut away to increase
fruitfulness and growth. Pruning doesn't always leave the plant looking pretty.
Sometimes it may even look a little awkward, but each time it is making way for
more growth. Can I suggest to you that God is using that wonderful spouse He
has given you to help prune you? To cut way the dead and overgrown stuff? When
we stand before the minister on our wedding day, draped in our lovely white dresses and sharp
suits, we don't much think about how our lives are going to change dramatically
after the honeymoon. We stand at the altar googly-eyed, surrounded by flowers
and well-wishers. Many times we are thinking about the wedding and not the
marriage. Yet, God is thinking about your future. He is thinking about
perfecting you to maximize your potential for the kingdom, and your spouse
plays a great role in that. Who else sees the "real" you? Your spouse
knows what you look like first thing in the morning. They know what gets on
your nerves and what excites you. They see the best and the worst version of
you, and they love you any way. Who else is qualified to help prune you? I know
that we don't like it when they tell us things that need to change. It is easy
for us to shift the conversation to their flaws and shortcomings, but can I ask
that you actually hear what they are saying? Could there be some truth to their
message? Are there areas that you could stand some improvement in? Is your
spouse saying that you don't listen? Or that you talk too much? Are they saying
that you don't spend enough time with them? Are they asking for more intimacy
or stricter financial reins? Maybe God is using them to speak truth that you
need to hear. Maybe God is trying to cut back some dead stuff so that you can
bear more fruit. Sometimes we have to receive the message regardless of the
messenger. Instead of responding to your spouse with a list of their
inadequacies, how about you take their concerns to the Father to see if there
is any truth to it. If God says there is, then agree quickly and ask Him to
help you work on it. I know I am asking a lot, but thank your spouse for
pointing it out to you. This is where you have to spend plenty of time abiding
in God so that your flesh doesn't take control. After all, you want to be
exactly who God called you to be, right? Submit to the pruning process, dear
friend. Bear more fruit!
Monday, September 19, 2016
Wake Up and Fight!
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
-1 Peter 5:8
The enemy is trying to divide your marriage. I know that is not a positive start for a marriage moment, but it is true. He knows that your marriage is a metaphor for Christ's relationship with the church so he is trying to destroy it. I think you need to be reminded of his plan because we have a tendency to become passive. Many times, if there isn't some big problem to solve, we don't put a lot of effort into our marriage. We just assume everything is okay. We become content and begin to operate on autopilot as if we don't have to exert effort in our marriages. Let me remind you that we can't afford to be inactive. Our adversary is seeking an opportunity to devour what God has built. Perhaps, he will try to use a seductive coworker who is willing to be a listening ear. Maybe he will use issues with disciplining your children or handling finances. He could interrupt your communication. Maybe he will use your willingness (and sometimes over-commitment) to serve in an organization or even church to cause distance between you and your spouse. No matter the tactic, his plan is the same -- the destruction of your marriage. If he can get us at odds with our spouses, sometimes over the smallest thing, his plan is set in motion. Yet, I believe the devil is defeated. I believe that his plans of destruction will not work. Why? Because you are going to be vigilant. Vigilant means keenly watchful to detect danger; ever awake and alert. You, Covenant Keeper, are on guard. You are aware. I believe that God will expose the holes that the enemy might try to creep through, and you will begin to battle in prayer. Today, I believe that you will take back any ground that the enemy might have gained. I declare today that we will not be lazy, passive, or ineffective. We will be like soldiers standing watch over our husbands or wives, our children, and our relationships. We will bind the enemy and every deceitful work that he has started. We will start with an honest look at ourselves asking God to help us to be the husband or wife that He called us to be. Then we will declare God's word and His will over our marriages. I encourage you to fight! Fight with the word of God! Fight in the spirit! Don't fight your spouse. Fight the enemy! Declare that he is a liar, and the father of lies. Declare that he can't have your marriage. He can't have your family. He can't have anything that belongs to you. Know that I am praying with you:
-1 Peter 5:8
The enemy is trying to divide your marriage. I know that is not a positive start for a marriage moment, but it is true. He knows that your marriage is a metaphor for Christ's relationship with the church so he is trying to destroy it. I think you need to be reminded of his plan because we have a tendency to become passive. Many times, if there isn't some big problem to solve, we don't put a lot of effort into our marriage. We just assume everything is okay. We become content and begin to operate on autopilot as if we don't have to exert effort in our marriages. Let me remind you that we can't afford to be inactive. Our adversary is seeking an opportunity to devour what God has built. Perhaps, he will try to use a seductive coworker who is willing to be a listening ear. Maybe he will use issues with disciplining your children or handling finances. He could interrupt your communication. Maybe he will use your willingness (and sometimes over-commitment) to serve in an organization or even church to cause distance between you and your spouse. No matter the tactic, his plan is the same -- the destruction of your marriage. If he can get us at odds with our spouses, sometimes over the smallest thing, his plan is set in motion. Yet, I believe the devil is defeated. I believe that his plans of destruction will not work. Why? Because you are going to be vigilant. Vigilant means keenly watchful to detect danger; ever awake and alert. You, Covenant Keeper, are on guard. You are aware. I believe that God will expose the holes that the enemy might try to creep through, and you will begin to battle in prayer. Today, I believe that you will take back any ground that the enemy might have gained. I declare today that we will not be lazy, passive, or ineffective. We will be like soldiers standing watch over our husbands or wives, our children, and our relationships. We will bind the enemy and every deceitful work that he has started. We will start with an honest look at ourselves asking God to help us to be the husband or wife that He called us to be. Then we will declare God's word and His will over our marriages. I encourage you to fight! Fight with the word of God! Fight in the spirit! Don't fight your spouse. Fight the enemy! Declare that he is a liar, and the father of lies. Declare that he can't have your marriage. He can't have your family. He can't have anything that belongs to you. Know that I am praying with you:
God cover these marriages! Cover your people! Examine us, oh Lord, and lead us in your truth! Show us where we have fallen short of your glory. Show us where we have not been the husbands/wives that you have called us to be. We repent, oh God, and turn back to you. We prioritize you God, and we prioritize our family! Forgive us for not being in order! Show us how to fight. Show us specific scriptures to pray. Help us to identify the real issue. Give us the strength to fight. Help us to love our spouses like you love the church. Remind us of how we felt when we first fell in love with them. Bind the hand of the enemy, oh God. Let his plans come to nought. We praise you for whole marriages, God! We thank you that the enemy's plan failed! We thank you that our marriages flourish! In Jesus' name!
Monday, September 12, 2016
His Grace Really is Sufficient!
And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
-2 Corinthians 12:9
God is enough! I know that sounds really spiritual and "churchy", but He really is. He is enough in your marriage. He is enough in your relationships. He is enough in your finances. I know it to be true. John and I have experienced some real obstacles this year. We have truly had to trust and rely on God every month of this year. There have been several times when I did not know what to do. There were times when I tried to figure things out on my own. There were times when I nagged John or wanted him to be the answer. There were times when I wanted to lay in the bed and cry. Yet, God saw me through every one of those times. He sent people and orchestrated situations to bless our family. He constantly reminded me of His promises. He continually showed me that He was a keeper. He is even now walking me through the process of leaning totally on Him and not my understanding. He is instructing me to be quiet when I want to talk. He is telling me to pray instead of complain. He is saying trust instead of doubt. Maybe your life has encountered some challenges this year. Maybe you are facing a challenge now. It can be financial, spiritual, emotional, or physical. Whatever the challenge please know that God is enough. He doesn't need your help to bless you. That was my problem. I wanted God to bless my attempts to fix the problem. I wanted Him to make people do what I thought they should do, but God clearly reminded me that He is God. He can turn water into wine. He can provide a lamb when you are preparing to sacrifice your most prized possession. He can walk over what was meant to drown you. God can bless you without your interference. We just have to trust Him like we say (and sing) that we do. John and I have seen God take care of our every need. Like He sent manna to the children of Israel, He sent provision to us. He covered and kept us. He opened doors that we didn't even know were there. Don't you know that He is trying to do the same in your life? Is there an issue that seems big in your life? I assure you that God is bigger! Is there a problem that seems impossible? I promise you that all things are possible with Him! Is there something that seems out of control? He is sovereign and every knee will bow to Him! Please, dear Covenant Keeper, trust Him to take care of you! Take your hands completely off of the situation. Begin to trust Him even when your situation doesn't seem to be in alignment with what He said. Trust Him to work all things out for your good. Then rest in His grace. Rest in His love. Rest knowing that He loves you, and He cares. Rest in Him! Commit that you are not going to nag your spouse. Commit that you are not going to complain. Commit to bringing every care and concern to the Father. Then watch Him work! His grace will keep you in this time! It is more than enough!
-2 Corinthians 12:9
God is enough! I know that sounds really spiritual and "churchy", but He really is. He is enough in your marriage. He is enough in your relationships. He is enough in your finances. I know it to be true. John and I have experienced some real obstacles this year. We have truly had to trust and rely on God every month of this year. There have been several times when I did not know what to do. There were times when I tried to figure things out on my own. There were times when I nagged John or wanted him to be the answer. There were times when I wanted to lay in the bed and cry. Yet, God saw me through every one of those times. He sent people and orchestrated situations to bless our family. He constantly reminded me of His promises. He continually showed me that He was a keeper. He is even now walking me through the process of leaning totally on Him and not my understanding. He is instructing me to be quiet when I want to talk. He is telling me to pray instead of complain. He is saying trust instead of doubt. Maybe your life has encountered some challenges this year. Maybe you are facing a challenge now. It can be financial, spiritual, emotional, or physical. Whatever the challenge please know that God is enough. He doesn't need your help to bless you. That was my problem. I wanted God to bless my attempts to fix the problem. I wanted Him to make people do what I thought they should do, but God clearly reminded me that He is God. He can turn water into wine. He can provide a lamb when you are preparing to sacrifice your most prized possession. He can walk over what was meant to drown you. God can bless you without your interference. We just have to trust Him like we say (and sing) that we do. John and I have seen God take care of our every need. Like He sent manna to the children of Israel, He sent provision to us. He covered and kept us. He opened doors that we didn't even know were there. Don't you know that He is trying to do the same in your life? Is there an issue that seems big in your life? I assure you that God is bigger! Is there a problem that seems impossible? I promise you that all things are possible with Him! Is there something that seems out of control? He is sovereign and every knee will bow to Him! Please, dear Covenant Keeper, trust Him to take care of you! Take your hands completely off of the situation. Begin to trust Him even when your situation doesn't seem to be in alignment with what He said. Trust Him to work all things out for your good. Then rest in His grace. Rest in His love. Rest knowing that He loves you, and He cares. Rest in Him! Commit that you are not going to nag your spouse. Commit that you are not going to complain. Commit to bringing every care and concern to the Father. Then watch Him work! His grace will keep you in this time! It is more than enough!
Monday, September 5, 2016
Time for a Tune Up
Proverbs 27:23
Be diligent to know the state of your flocks, and attend to your herds...
Everything that has been built for longevity requires maintenance: your home, your body, even your appliances. They need regular service to make sure that they are functioning properly. This maximizes the lifetime of an object. As much as I like driving my car, if I never put gas in it or have it serviced it is sure to break down. Our relationships are just like that. Yet, we often forget to take time to maintain them. We think we can just get married and let the marriage run its course. Sadly, many couples have found that this method does not work. Our marriages need maintenance. We need to take the time to make sure that they are working properly. We need to have regular "tune ups". Have we spent time together? Are we both feeling the same way about our union? Are we growing and progressing? We must be intentional about making sure that our marriages are healthy. Sometimes your "check engine" light comes on in your car to make you aware of something that you may have missed or that you have ignored. Are there signs or signals happening in your relationship that indicate that some things need to be checked? You can ignore that light if you would like, but the problem will only get worse. Something that could be as small as cleaning a filter could become something as large as replacing a transmission if we continue to ignore the problem. I encourage us all to take time for a tune up. Check under the hood. Check the fluid levels. Let God's word be the measuring stick for our marriages. I know that they will last so much longer and "ride" so much smoother with frequent and continued maintenance!
Be diligent to know the state of your flocks, and attend to your herds...
Everything that has been built for longevity requires maintenance: your home, your body, even your appliances. They need regular service to make sure that they are functioning properly. This maximizes the lifetime of an object. As much as I like driving my car, if I never put gas in it or have it serviced it is sure to break down. Our relationships are just like that. Yet, we often forget to take time to maintain them. We think we can just get married and let the marriage run its course. Sadly, many couples have found that this method does not work. Our marriages need maintenance. We need to take the time to make sure that they are working properly. We need to have regular "tune ups". Have we spent time together? Are we both feeling the same way about our union? Are we growing and progressing? We must be intentional about making sure that our marriages are healthy. Sometimes your "check engine" light comes on in your car to make you aware of something that you may have missed or that you have ignored. Are there signs or signals happening in your relationship that indicate that some things need to be checked? You can ignore that light if you would like, but the problem will only get worse. Something that could be as small as cleaning a filter could become something as large as replacing a transmission if we continue to ignore the problem. I encourage us all to take time for a tune up. Check under the hood. Check the fluid levels. Let God's word be the measuring stick for our marriages. I know that they will last so much longer and "ride" so much smoother with frequent and continued maintenance!
Monday, August 29, 2016
Give it to Him!
Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.
-1 Peter 5:7
Everyone has issues. Everyone has concerns and cares. If you are married, you have concerns about your spouse and marriage. If you are a parent, you are concerned about your children. If you are a student, you are concerned about school, peers, and grades. Again, everyone has concerns. I currently have a running list of things to pray about. Many times, however, I find myself worrying rather than praying. It is easy to go down a rabbit trail of daily concerns: are my kids going to be okay? Have I taught them enough for them to make the right choices? How can I be more financially secure? Am I fulfilling the purpose God has for me? Am I obeying God rather than man? Am I in the right career? These and a myriad of other questions bombard our minds each day. Our role is to choose to take each of these to God. We are to take every care and concern, whether little or large, to the Father. He instructs us to cast them on Him. The Amplified Bible breaks it down even further: casting all your cares [all your anxieties, all your worries, and all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares about you [with deepest affection, and watches over you very carefully]. God didn't design us to live life in worry and distress. He is ready and willing to carry the heavy burdens that come our way. He didn't say cast them on your spouse. I am sometimes guilty of that as well. I am concerned so I want John to be concerned too. Sometimes, if I am honest, I just want Him to carry the concern for me. But God didn't tell me to cast my cares on my husband. He did not tell me to cast them on my friends. He told me to cast them upon Him. I know that you are facing real issues in your life. I encourage you to take each of them to God in prayer. Take every worry, anxiety, and concern and lay them at His feet. I assure you that He will receive them. He cares about you. Like the Good, Good Father He is, He will come to your rescue at the appropriate time. He is watching over you. He is waiting for you. Give it to Him.
-1 Peter 5:7
Everyone has issues. Everyone has concerns and cares. If you are married, you have concerns about your spouse and marriage. If you are a parent, you are concerned about your children. If you are a student, you are concerned about school, peers, and grades. Again, everyone has concerns. I currently have a running list of things to pray about. Many times, however, I find myself worrying rather than praying. It is easy to go down a rabbit trail of daily concerns: are my kids going to be okay? Have I taught them enough for them to make the right choices? How can I be more financially secure? Am I fulfilling the purpose God has for me? Am I obeying God rather than man? Am I in the right career? These and a myriad of other questions bombard our minds each day. Our role is to choose to take each of these to God. We are to take every care and concern, whether little or large, to the Father. He instructs us to cast them on Him. The Amplified Bible breaks it down even further: casting all your cares [all your anxieties, all your worries, and all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares about you [with deepest affection, and watches over you very carefully]. God didn't design us to live life in worry and distress. He is ready and willing to carry the heavy burdens that come our way. He didn't say cast them on your spouse. I am sometimes guilty of that as well. I am concerned so I want John to be concerned too. Sometimes, if I am honest, I just want Him to carry the concern for me. But God didn't tell me to cast my cares on my husband. He did not tell me to cast them on my friends. He told me to cast them upon Him. I know that you are facing real issues in your life. I encourage you to take each of them to God in prayer. Take every worry, anxiety, and concern and lay them at His feet. I assure you that He will receive them. He cares about you. Like the Good, Good Father He is, He will come to your rescue at the appropriate time. He is watching over you. He is waiting for you. Give it to Him.
Monday, August 22, 2016
Wait!
I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!
-Psalms 27:13 - 14
Much of our time is spent waiting -- lines at the bank, at the grocery store, in traffic -- all of it involves waiting. More than that, many of us are waiting for things to change in our lives: finances, careers, aspects of our marriages. Despite the fact that much of our time is spent waiting, many of us still do not enjoy it. We want God to hurry up and make things materialize in our lives. We want our husbands to quickly be the man that God has called him to be. We want our wives to magically turn in to the women God would have her to be. We want it all and we want it now. Yet, we miss that God does something beautiful in the process of waiting. David wrote the passage above when he was running for his very life. Saul was out to kill him, and he was giving it his all. Saul knew that David was his replacement, and he was not pleased. David had been anointed by God to ascend the throne, but he had not yet taken the position. God called him king, but He was running for his life. I know you are thinking how is this describing a beautiful process. I assure you that it is. Even though David was anointed to be king God used everything he went through to train him for the throne. He used his former occupation as a shepherd as a training ground to nurture and care for Israel. He used his service with Saul to teach him how to be a mighty warrior. He used even the times or despair as opportunities for David to continue to draw close to him. There were many years (scholars suggest at least 15) between the time David was anointed as king and the time that He was actually crowned. Yet, when God calls you something that is what you are. It is the process of time and waiting between prophecy and manifestation that matures and prepares you for the fulfillment. Your attitude in the "meantime" plays a huge role in your destiny. Look at what David says, "I would have lost heart". Do you feel him? In your waiting I am sure that there were many times that you felt the same way. I would have lost heart in my career. I would have given up in ministry. I would have left my marriage. I would have fainted, quit, turned back, and threw in the towel...BUT...I believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord! David believed God. He had a million reasons to quit, but all he needed was the one to keep going -- he believed God! Do you believe Him? Even when the enemy is chasing you and coming against you do you believe that you are going to see God's goodness? Do you believe that you are going to see it "in the land of the living"? You don't have to wait until you have gone to glory! You can see God's goodness right now. Don't you despise the process of waiting. Don't give up on your marriage! Many of us waited for this spouse. We prayed for them. Certainly, we can't give up on them. Believe that you will see God's goodness in your union. Don't give up on your dreams! Keep waiting and keep believing. Stand in faith knowing that you will see God's goodness! Wait well, dear friends! Wait well!
Monday, August 15, 2016
Love Like Jesus
“Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away.”
I Corinthians 13:4-8 NKJV
Love never fails. That sounds so awesome, doesn't it? Love NEVER fails. It is enduring. What a beautiful description of God's love for us: patient, kind, not arrogant, unwilling to keep record of wrongs. But this chapter isn't really about how God loves us. It is about how we should love others (which is the same way God loves us). I once read that we should put our names in where it says love and see how we measure up. Is Debra long-suffering and kind? Is Debra not puffed up? Does Debra keep no record of wrongs? I'm already seeing where I can come up higher! The truth is that we say we love people, but are we willing to love them like 1 Corinthians 13 describes it? Paul wasn't giving us a list of suggestions. We can't pick which ones we like and discard the others. Covenant Keepers, this certainly should describe how we love our spouses. We are one with them, and our union is reflective of Christ's relationship with the Body of Christ. Are we loving like we should? Look at this passage in the Message Bible. It makes it even clearer:
“If I give everything I own to the poor and even go to the stake to be burned as a martyr, but I don’t love, I’ve gotten nowhere. So, no matter what I say, what I believe, and what I do, I’m bankrupt without love. Love never gives up. Love cares more for others than for self. Love doesn’t want what it doesn’t have. Love doesn’t strut, Doesn’t have a swelled head, Doesn’t force itself on others, Isn’t always “me first,” Doesn’t fly off the handle, Doesn’t keep score of the sins of others, Doesn’t revel when others grovel, Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth, Puts up with anything, Trusts God always, Always looks for the best, Never looks back, But keeps going to the end.”
1 Corinthians 13:3-7 MSG
Take some time this week to reflect on this scripture. I pray that God shows us any areas that need attention in our love walk and that He strengthens us to cooperate fully with Him. Blessings!
Monday, August 8, 2016
Is it Time to Go?
Now the Lord said to Samuel, “How long will you mourn for Saul, seeing I have rejected him from reigning over Israel? Fill your horn with oil, and go; I am sending you to Jesse the Bethlehemite. For I have provided Myself a king among his sons.”
-1 Samuel 16:1
It's early August, and every year this time initiates a new season for me. As an educator, August is a month of firsts. When I was a classroom teacher it meant new students, new colleagues, and sometimes a new classroom. August is bittersweet, however, because it signals the end of summer break (which I thoroughly enjoy), but it also signals the beginning of a new school year. It is amazing how one thing can begin and another can end simultaneously. Consider 1 Samuel 16:1. God tells Samuel to stop mourning for Saul and go anoint one of Jesse's sons who we will later find out is David. In one verse, Saul's season ends and David's begins. This wasn't easy for Samuel. He had anointed Saul as king. No doubt Saul's disobedience hurt him deeply. However, God said it was time to move on. He told him to fill his horn and go. That sounds so simple, but sometimes it is really challenging. Leave what you have now. Leave what is familiar. Leave what is comfortable. Go! As hard as it sometimes is, if we look in scripture we see that God gave this advice to so many of our biblical heroes: He told Abram to go -- leave his family and go to the land He would show him; Moses had to go -- back to Egypt to free the children of Israel; Jesus had to go -- to the cross to redeem us back to God; and you will have to go as well. It may be from a long time job, maybe you have to leave a familiar place, maybe you have to simply go to your next level. There will come a time when you will have to go. I assure you that wherever you have to go great things are going to happen. Fill your horn with oil, prepare to release it as God directs, and go! That is what I am going to do! As much as I love summer break it's time is ending. I must move forward. It is definitely hard to say goodbye to it because it has been a good friend. But I am filling my horn with oil and preparing to release it to waiting teachers, students, and all that I am come into contact with. Is God ending a season for you? If so, GO!
-1 Samuel 16:1
It's early August, and every year this time initiates a new season for me. As an educator, August is a month of firsts. When I was a classroom teacher it meant new students, new colleagues, and sometimes a new classroom. August is bittersweet, however, because it signals the end of summer break (which I thoroughly enjoy), but it also signals the beginning of a new school year. It is amazing how one thing can begin and another can end simultaneously. Consider 1 Samuel 16:1. God tells Samuel to stop mourning for Saul and go anoint one of Jesse's sons who we will later find out is David. In one verse, Saul's season ends and David's begins. This wasn't easy for Samuel. He had anointed Saul as king. No doubt Saul's disobedience hurt him deeply. However, God said it was time to move on. He told him to fill his horn and go. That sounds so simple, but sometimes it is really challenging. Leave what you have now. Leave what is familiar. Leave what is comfortable. Go! As hard as it sometimes is, if we look in scripture we see that God gave this advice to so many of our biblical heroes: He told Abram to go -- leave his family and go to the land He would show him; Moses had to go -- back to Egypt to free the children of Israel; Jesus had to go -- to the cross to redeem us back to God; and you will have to go as well. It may be from a long time job, maybe you have to leave a familiar place, maybe you have to simply go to your next level. There will come a time when you will have to go. I assure you that wherever you have to go great things are going to happen. Fill your horn with oil, prepare to release it as God directs, and go! That is what I am going to do! As much as I love summer break it's time is ending. I must move forward. It is definitely hard to say goodbye to it because it has been a good friend. But I am filling my horn with oil and preparing to release it to waiting teachers, students, and all that I am come into contact with. Is God ending a season for you? If so, GO!
Saturday, August 6, 2016
Are you missing the vegetables?
"We remember the fish which we ate freely in Egypt, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic; but now our whole being is dried up; there is nothing at all except this manna before our eyes!" (Numbers 11:5-6)
Isn't it amazing how much we all want change until it is actually upon us? In our verse for today, the children of Israel are two years out of Egypt. God has delivered them and done so in a mighty way. He has shown them His faithfulness time and time again. Even in the context of the verse, He is providing for them manna...bread from heaven! Sadly, they are not satisfied. They begin to wish for the fish they ate "freely" in Egypt. Really? Freely? They were slaves in Egypt. They did not do anything freely. We tend to see our past in through a jaded lens. Because they were discontent in their hearts they glorified what really was a horrible situation. Had they forgotten how much they cried out to be released from Egypt? Had they forgotten the hardness of Pharaoh's heart? Had they forgotten his decision to kill their firstborn sons? They just were not accustomed to this new life God had for them. They wanted release from Egypt, but they were definitely not ready to enter Canaan. Are you? God has great things in store for you and your spouse. Don't keep looking back when God has so much in store for you going forward. He desires to lead you step by step into your Canaan, but you can not despise where you are right now. Don't begin to miss the "vegetables and fish" of your past and miss the provision He has for you in your present. What things are you wishing for from Egypt? Are they worth missing out on His promises?
God, in His permissive will, gave the children of Israel just what they asked for. He gave them meat -- quail. He gave them so much quail that it was piled high on the ground. Some of them even died while eating it. All of that over something as inconsequential as meat. Actually it wasn't about meat. It was about the discontent of their hearts. They didn't value what God had done for them. They didn't value who He had been to them. They no longer had to work and labor for their provision. All they had to do was rely on God to provide which he did every day. It wasn't enough for them. They wanted more than what He had given. Don't long for what was in your place of bondage. Don't miss how things used to be. Don't miss what your money used to look like. Egypt was a place of bondage and fear. It symbolizes the world. You would rather have Canaan -- a promised place of peace and prosperity. Missing vegetables are not worth your future!
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