So He Got Up . . .

Matt. 2:

13When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. "Get up," he said, "take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. 14So he got up. . ."   
19After Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt ²⁰and said, "Get up, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, 21So he got up . . ."

I can hear Joseph now, "Mary, pack your bags---we're on the move again".  By this time, Joseph was becoming used to an angel appearing and giving instructions.  Whatever was revealed to Joseph in a dream, he got up and went. 

Does God reveal himself to you through dreams?  How many of us would "get up and go", or would we have to analyze and rationalize what the dream was all about?  I'm sure Joseph may have had doubts and concerns, but in spite of it, he fulfilled God's plan.
 
This wasn't the first time Joseph had a significant dream.  In Matt. 1: 20"But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 24When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife."  It would have been a strong step of faith on Joseph's behalf.  But, still he did it.

I have heard people say that they wish God would give them clear directions on where to go and what to do.  What if an angel appeared to you in a dream like he did with Joseph?  Would you listen?  Would you obey, especially if it was something difficult or unusual?  Whether God's instructions come to you in the form of a dream, or through His written word, the Bible, we must take heed to "Get Up", and go do it! 

Render Unto Caesar. . .

"In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. And everyone went to his own town to register."      (Luke 2: 1, 3 NIV)

The census is done much differently today. A computerized form is sent out to each residence. You are required to fill it out and send it back within a specified period of time. If the government does not receive it, they will either call you or send a census worker to your doorstep.

In Biblical times, you had to go back to your hometown to register. Can you imagine what it would be like today if we were required to go back to our hometowns? I know there are several people in this area who were born and raised here, and never left the county to go live anywhere else. For those folks, it would be no problem. Since such a large portion of the U.S. population grew up in different states, or even different parts of the world, it would be major chaos if they were required to travel back home in order to complete a census.

Joseph and Mary had to take such a journey. "So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David." (vs. 4). Mary had to go with Joseph since she was engaged to marry him. By this time, they already knew Mary was pregnant with the Son of God. They could have viewed the census decree as the "least of their worries". But, instead, they did what was required of them. They did what was ordered by the law of Caesar. Even if it meant a long and tiresome journey, they went.

Of course, all of this was a part of God's divine plan. Mary could have looked up to God and said, "I am carrying this child for you. Surely, you don't expect me to go on such a journey. Don't you want me to stay home where I can be comfortable and take care of myself and this baby?" But, she didn't. And, we shouldn't either. Just because God has chosen to use us in a special way doesn't mean that we are above the law of the land. If the law says we do so and so, that is what we should do. "Render unto Caesar what is Caesar's; render unto God what is God's".

SIMILAR BUT DIFFERENT

Zechariah asked the angel, “How can I be sure of this?  I am an old man and my wife is well along in years.”  Luke 1:18 NIV

“How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?”  Luke 1:34 NIV

These are two questions put to Gabriel after he had appeared to Zechariah and Mary with a word from the Lord concerning their firstborn sons.

At first glance, these two questions seem very similar and they are.  However, I could have said, “At first glance, these two questions don’t seem to be very different, but they are”.  The point I want you to consider today is that, although two things can be very similar, they can be catastrophically different. 

Before looking at the differences of these two questions, first we should look at the similarities of the two situations.  Gabriel addressed both Zechariah and Mary concerning the birth of their first child, a son.  Each birth, as described by Gabriel, would have a “supernatural twist” regarding the conception of that son and a detailed description of what that son would be named, how each would minister God’s word and will in the earth, and how God was going to empower them, respectively, after the lineage of Elijah and David.

The major differences pertaining to these supernatural visitations are many.  Zechariah was a priest and, of course, Mary was not.  Zechariah was before the altar of God and Mary was not.  Gabriel announced to Zechariah an answer to his prayers and announced to Mary that she was highly favored by God and that the Lord was with her.  Gabriel’s announcement to Zechariah had to do with a miracle that had a historical precedent with the birth of a child to Abraham who was along in years and Sarah who was both old and barren, but his announcement to Mary had to do with a miracle with no precedent and would have been considered to man to be impossible.

So, I think you can see that Zechariah was not acting in faith and doubted God’s message as delivered by Gabriel because of the circumstances of his and Elizabeth’s age and her barrenness.  Although he and Elizabeth had fulfilled all the “Lord’s commandments and regulations blamelessly”, he was immediately startled by Gabriel and was filled with fear.  He was totally unprepared for his visitation, and because of his questioning God’s Word for his life, he was not able to speak for nigh on to a year.

Mary, on the other hand, was greatly troubled by Gabriel’s appearance and was filled with wonder concerning his words.  She, however, was not startled and clearly was not fearful of Gabriel or his message.  She did not question God’s ability to achieve that which He said He would do; she only wondered how He would do it.

Although God’s Word came to pass in Zechariah’s life, he and his family suffered considerably because of his not believing, of his lack of faith.  Conversely, God’s Word came to pass in Mary’s life and she found favor with God because she believed Him.

God’s Word is chocked full of promises that we cancel, deny, diminish, fail to receive, and actually blaspheme each and every day.  In Romans 8:28 NIV God’s Word says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose”.  Most everyone acknowledges that they believe this scripture but if the bush hog slides over against the lift arm of your tractor mashing your finger in between, what do you do?  Do you give God the glory for it by thanking Him for the truth of Romans 8:28, Psalms 103:3, Isaiah 53:5 and 1Peter 2:24 or do you like Zechariah become startled, fearful and begin telling God how badly this hurts, has messed up your life, and question how He could have allowed this to happen to you?

Everyday, whether alone before God or in the company of others, we are given opportunities to be full of faith and confidence like Mary or to be gripped with fear and question the authority of God’s Word like Zechariah.  Remember Matthew 12:37 NKJV, “For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned”. 

Dear God, our Father in Heaven, call those outside your Kingdom and help us as Your children to allow you to direct our steps so we can glorify you in all we say and do.  Amen and so be it!

Give Honor Where Honor Is Due

"A son honors his father, and a servant his master. If I am a father, where is the honor due me? If I am a master, where is the respect due me? says the Lord Almighty." (Malachi 1:6 NIV)


As this verse says, where is our honor and respect towards the Lord? Many of us go through our everyday lives with no regard to God. We try to figure out everything on our own, and we don't involve God in any of our challenges or struggles until we realize we can't do it! "Where are you God?" we ask. God is right there as He never leaves us nor forsakes us, but many times we leave Him! We might think that we are able to pick and choose when we take God with us and when we can leave him behind! God did not give his Son to die for us so that we could pick God up on Sundays and leave him behind through the week.  He wants all of us---EVERY DAY!!

I've heard my mom say many times that during my hospital stay after my near-fatal vehicle accident years ago that she often questioned, "God, why?" It's easy to question God's motives and ways during our times of trouble. I thank God that we aren't in control of our own lives because I know I'd make a total mess of it. We must know that during these times, God is in control and everything happens for a reason. Lift up your face and thank God for the good, and thank Him for the bad!.. If life was roses, then most of us would never worship our wonderful God.

Malachi 4:1 says, "Surely the day is coming..." The day of the Lord is near and becomes more near each day of our life! We've all read in Revelation, that in the end, we are the winners! We, meaning the body of Christ, have nothing to worry about as long as we trust and obey Him. On the opposite side, if you're not where you need to be with God, read the book of Revelation and soak in God's word. As wonderful as it will be for God's people, it will only be that horrific for those that don't honor Him!

God, I pray blessings on those reading this today! I pray their lives would be filled with wonderful things, and I pray you keep the things of attack away from them. I pray that you would show us any spots in our lives that need correction and help us to walk in boldness! I pray you help us to become more Christ-like.  Help us to show others your wonderful love and mercy! AMEN

Prepare A Place

¹⁵ "Blow the trumpet in Zion,

declare a holy fast, call a sacred assembly.

¹⁶ Gather the people, consecrate the assembly;
bring together the elders,

gather the children, those nursing at the breast.

Let the bridegroom leave his room and the bride her chamber.

¹⁷ Let the priests, who minister before the LORD,

weep between the temple porch and the altar.

Let them say, "Spare your people, O LORD.

Do not make your inheritance an object of scorn,
a byword among the nations.

Why should they say among the peoples,

'Where is their God?' "

Joel 2: 15-17 NIV

It's easy to "say" how desperate we are for God. It's easy to "talk about" how much we need Him. It's not as easy to actually "do something" to try and bring about a move of God. These verses are saying that we should drop whatever we are doing, no matter how important. We should gather everyone together and not just some. The prior verses speak of weeping, praying, fasting, and mourning in order to gain God's attention.

We love to talk about how we "wish" God would show up in a big way. Yet, how much are we willing to give in order for that to happen? Pastor Eric spoke in a sermon a while ago about preparing a place for His presence. God cannot bring us great things until we have repaired the altar which He would abide upon. We must make a way for Him and then I believe He will not let our efforts go in vain. If we take one step towards Him, He will take two steps towards us.

How much are you willing to offer in order to receive the great things you are asking for in your life, in your work place, or in your nation? May we all be found praying, mourning, and weeping as we seek greater things!

Give Back

"The people of Israel, including the Levites, are to bring their contributions of grain, new wine and oil to the storerooms where the articles for the sanctuary are kept and where the ministering priests, the gatekeepers and the singers stay. We will not neglect the house of our God." Nehemiah 10:39 NIV

The last line of that verse keeps playing over and over in my mind, "We will not neglect the house of our God." While these verses do speak on tithing, I believe we often think tithing is only about money. However, we are also expected to tithe of our time and our giftings. Whatever we have been given, we should give back to the Lord as He asks of us. If you have been given a gifting or talent, God would expect you to use that in some way for His glory. That is not to say that you can not also use it in the Earth. It is to say that earthly venues are not the only place they should be used.

How often do we say that we don't think we can contribute anything to the church? I believe God created everyone with a purpose and therefore each person has something instilled in them that is already useful to the church. Each person may serve in different ways, but all can serve in some way.

Are we neglecting the house of our God by leaving the church needs out of our agenda? Have we asked how we can serve? Have we prayed about where God could use us? Have we fit the church into our schedule? Have we given back to God as He so freely gives to us? Church work certainly isn't easy work, but it is rewarding work. Serving in a church should not ever be a question for a Christian. It should be a given, if even in the smallest of ways.

At one time, someone in a church probably reached out to you or served in a capacity that allowed you to encounter God in a spiritual setting while they worked behind the scenes. Now that you have matured in your spiritual walk, is it time to do that for someone else? Think about it.

It's Still a Miracle

"You saw the suffering of our forefathers in Egypt; you heard their cry at the Red Sea.  You divided the sea before them, so that they passed through it on dry ground, but you hurled their pursuers into the depths, like a stone into mighty waters."   (Nehemiah 9:  9, 11, NIV)

Prior to reading the assigned scripture for today, I went online and my homepage is set to CNN.com.  There I saw a news line with the subject matter of Moses, the Red Sea and the Nile River.  That peaked my curiosity, so I went to this link:    http://news.blogs.cnn.com/2010/09/21/where-did-waters-part-for-moses-not-where-you-think/?hpt=Mid

"The parting of the waters described in the book of Exodus that enabled Moses and the Israelites to escape the Pharaoh's army is possible, computer simulations run by researchers at the National Center for Atmospheric Research and the University of Colorado at Boulder show."  Wow---people have been paid to find out things that we Christians already know.  The parting of waters is possible! 

Their research went on show how wind could have caused this phenomenon. However, they believed it occurred in the Nile River instead of the Red Sea.  OK, let's give them the benefit of the doubt in this argument.  What if wind actually caused it?  What if it actually happened in the Nile River?  (Please understand, I believe what the Bible says.)  But, it still leaves room for a miracle.  What are the odds that a wind "just happened" to have come through, exactly at the right time the Israelites needed to cross over, and at exactly the right speed that it would have taken for those waters to part?  Isn't that a miracle, too?  But, also, the Nile River is located in Egypt.  It's not like researchers found a river thousands of miles away from the Egyptian people who were "barreling down on the Israelites".  It's close to the Red Sea! 

“People have always been fascinated by this Exodus story, wondering if it comes from historical facts,” Drews says. “What this study shows is that the description of the waters parting indeed has a basis in physical laws."  So, let scientists do what they do best---study science.  I, instead, choose to study God and His word.  And, if their findings prove that the Bible is true and has validity, even if the miracle occurred differently, then let them go ahead.  A miracle is still a miracle, regardless of how you choose to part it!~

Good Night, John Boy!

"You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours.

 Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house;

your sons will be like olive shoots around your table.

Thus is the man blessed who fears the LORD."

(Psalm 128:  2-4, NIV)

Growing up, we watched "The Waltons" weekly.  Dad liked the show so much, that later on, he began to videotape the reruns and probably has about every episode on VHS.  Yes, those were the days!  "The Waltons" was a good, clean family show depicting life during the Depression.  A large family lived together in a white clapboard house, including the grandparents.  Many scenes would be set around the family table.

Let's fast forward to the 21st century.  We have shows like "Kate plus Eight" or "19 Kids and Counting".  Reality shows of large families, but in much more turmoil than the Waltons lived in, especially Jon and Kate.  America seems fascinated by these large families, maybe because, nowadays, they are a novelty.  Statistics used to say that an average family consisted of "2.5 children".  I always said I wanted the half-child. :)  Of course, this is being written by a woman with no children. 

During Biblical times, it was a blessing to have a large family.  Psalm 127:5 says, "Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them (children)."  If a woman's womb was barren, she was considered cursed.  Remember the story of Sarai and Hagar?  Sarai asked Abram, her husband,  to sleep with Hagar, her maidservant, so Hagar would  become pregnant in order for Sarai to have a child.  Desperate people do desperate things!  But, then God went on to to bless Abraham and Sarah, and they bore Isaac, and Abraham became known as the "father of many nations".

Millions of innocent babies are being aborted yearly because women consider them to be an "inconvenience" and it's their "choice".  If you have children today, consider them to be a blessing from God.  When you tuck them in at night and turn out the lights, thank God for them.  And, don't forget to say, "good night to John Boy!"

GUARD RAILS AND ROAD SIGNS

Your hands made me and formed me,
give me understanding to learn Your commands.

Psalms 119:73 NIV

We Christians can truly say that God’s hands made us and formed us because, after we are born again, we become new creations.  Just as a skilled potter plops down a blob of clay and uses his hands to mold and form that lifeless clay into a beautiful, useful container, our God takes our lifeless existence and molds and forms us into beautiful and useful beings.

We are so beautiful to God that He adopts us into His Family and we become His sons.  Galatians 3:26.  Beauty is sometimes defined as something that is pleasing to the beholder.  Although we as born again beings may not be beautiful in a physical sense, we are in a spiritual sense.  Hebrews tells us in 11:6 that it is impossible to please God without faith.  Conversely then, He is pleased when we believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him, it goes on to say in 11:6.

Yes, when we believe, confess and repent, we become God’s child.  As with any newborn, we must grow in stature, learn and mature.  We, as the Psalmist says, must seek understanding before we are even able to learn his commands.  The implication is that gaining understanding is part of the making and forming process.  The more mature we become the more we realize that God’s commands are not just do’s and do not’s established to keep score as to how good or bad we've been.  Rather, they are like "guard rails and road signs" that were given to assist us in our travels along life's highways and byways.

Father, keep us focused on our ultimate destination by increasing our understanding and helping us to learn Your command that we are to love You with all our being and to love our neighbors and brothers as ourselves.  Amen and So Be It. 

God Says We Will Be Happy!

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise (Psalm 111:10 NIV)

As I was reading today, I couldn't help but notice the excitement and tone that I was experiencing. Reading about God's goodness makes me happy and excited. Knowing that God honors everything He says makes me want to seek him more. When we get the revelation that we are not waiting on God but God is waiting on us, it should help us all to understand we should pursue and seek Him more daily.

Psalm 112 is a continuation from chapter 111 that as long as we obey and trust God, we will be happy! Verse 4 says that "even in darkness, light dawns for the upright..." This makes me want to leap for joy because, in case you missed it, He said that, "even in darkness the light will shine". No matter your circumstance or situation, the light at the end of the tunnel will always brighten the whole situation!

As always, God's word is an excitement to read and the plans for "His people" makes me love God all the more. If you've come to Jesus in hope that He will turn something around in your life, hold on because I believe God will bless. If you used to get excited about God but don't anymore, seek his presence. I read a devotional the other day that said, "If God doesn't excite you like he used to, then that is a form of blasphemy." Once I thought about it, it all seemed true that God doesn't want to dwell in those places that are dull and dried up!!

Lord,
I pray your presence be upon us daily and that you help us to gain excitement for you. Help us Lord to not become bored and dull with your word and seeking your face, but Lord change us! Mold us to become more like you would have us to be. Help us father! Amen!

Know Of What You Speak

"Who is this that darkens my counsel with words without knowledge?"

Job 38:2 NIV

In the verse above, God is speaking to Job. In the prior chapter, Job was speaking about God and, in this chapter, God asks Job what knowledge he really has on these matters.  God goes on to tell Job to brace himself like a man because He now wants to ask him some questions. Following, God asks Job what he knows of the many things that God takes care of, is in control of, and created.

Speaking without knowledge seems to be a common occurrence nowadays. It doesn't have to be done while speaking to God. We do it to each other all of the time. Just yesterday, I was reminded of this. I was told a story a month or so ago. I have learned to take "stories" with a grain of salt and realize that, in most cases, they may or may not have happened exactly as it is being told. This was one of those stories. Yesterday, someone else referenced this story again. I asked them, "Is it true that 'this' happened on that day?" to which the person answered ,"Yes, it is true, but this is the reason why." The "reason why" that this new person referenced put the story into an entirely different light and completely explained why it occurred.

This is why speaking without knowledge will get us into trouble. It is easy to observe something or someone and determine that we know why they are doing whatever they are doing. It is much more difficult to truly know why, and we shouldn't rely on our own knowledge to figure this out.  If I feel I must speak on a matter lately, I try to preface it with "This is my opinion based on what I know right now.  There may be facts that I am not aware of that would change things." At least then, I am not appearing to know something I don't. Although, I am sure it would be best if I didn't speak on matters at all sometimes.

Today, Rick Warren tweeted "Maturity is knowing the difference between having something to say and just having to say something." It is the latter one that often causes us to speak without knowledge. It is enough that we do it with each other. This is something we should strive to avoid. It is not surprising though that, just like Job, we do it with God. How can we possibly know why He does or doesn't do something? God may choose to spiritually show us something, but we can never assume that we know as much as He does. He holds such a vast amount of knowledge regarding this universe that we have no understanding of at this point. Therefore, there are times we must simply realize He knows best even if it makes little or no sense to us at the moment.

However, one must note that the conversation between God and Job does show the compassion He had for Job. God understood that Job was in a difficult position.  God also understood the lack of knowledge Job had. Therefore, God was willing to enter into a conversation with Job regarding what his thoughts and opinions were. True, the conversation was more of a correction than an exchange of thoughts, but God took the time to show Job the "light" because He loved Job enough to do so.

Whether it be in your life or in your conversations with God, remember our knowledge is often limited more than we think it is. We must not assume we know something that we do not. When referring to others, always give the benefit of the doubt. When addressing God, never forget our humble position ON this Earth compared to His great position OVER this Earth. If we can do those two things, we may find ourselves in the middle of fewer conflicts.

Deal With It!

^"So the exiles did as was proposed. Ezra, the priest, selected men who were family heads, one from each family division, and all of them designated by name. On the first day of the tenth month they sat down to investigate the cases, and by the first day of the first month they finished dealing with all the men who had married foreign women."   (Ezra 10: 16-17, NIV)

The role of a pastor is not just to stand in the pulpit and bring forth a great message, but to shepherd his flock as well.  As a priest and leader, Ezra was responsible for taking care of the exiles now that they were back in Jerusalem.  One of the problems they had was intermarriage.  There were those, including the leaders and officials, who were marrying neighboring pagan peoples who were committing detestable practices.  As a result, Ezra began to weep and pray, crying out to God on their behalf.  He then called forth the assembly on how to deal with this matter.  Ezra instructed them to confess to the Lord and separate themselves from the foreign peoples and divorce their wives. 

But, not only did they have to confess, the accused had to sit down with Ezra and the family leader and each individual case was discussed.  They had to deal with the problem, and this process took a few months to complete. Even though there may not have been an overwhelming number of happenings compared to the population,  it was important enough that Ezra knew that the Israelite assembly had to be cleansed in order to stop God's anger and wrath. 

If you have unconfessed sin in your life, and you find yourself being called into the pastor's office, know that he's not only doing it for your good, but for the church body as a whole, especially if you are in any type of leadership position.  Sin in the camp can spread, and others besides yourself may become affected or "infected".  The pastor loves you---God loves you!  Discipline for a season may be hurtful, but know that the end result can be a much closer walk with the Lord because the sin was dealt with instead of ignored. 

Live and Learn

". . .this Ezra came up from Babylon. He was a teacher well versed in the Law of Moses, which the Lord, the God of Israel, had given. The king had granted him everything he asked, for the hand of the Lord his God was on him.  For Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the Lord, and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel."   (Ezra 7: 6, 10  NIV)

"About 80 years after the rebuilding of the temple under Zerubbabel, Ezra returned to Judah with about 2,000 men and their families.  He was given a letter from Artaxerxes instructing him to carry out a program of religious education.  Along with the letter came significant power.  But long before Ezra's mission began, God had shaped him in three important ways so that he would use the power well.  First, as a scribe, Ezra dedicated himself to carefully studying God's Word.  Second, he intended to apply and obey personally the commands he discovered in God's Word.  Third, he was committed to teaching others both God's Word and its application to life.

Ezra achieved great things and made a significant impact because he had the right starting place for his actions and his life:  God's Word.  He studied it seriously and applied it faithfully.  He taught others what he learned.  He taught through both speaking and his example.  Like Ezra, we should determine both to study and to obey God's Word.  Ezra is, therefore, a great model for anyone who wants to live for God."  (Life Application Bible) 

"Study and be eager and do your utmost to present yourself to God approved (tested by trial), a workman who has no cause to be ashamed, correctly analyzing and accurately dividing [rightly handling and skillfully teaching] the Word of Truth."    2 Timothy 2:15 (Amplified Bible)

Long Live the Queen

"So the king and Haman went to Queen Esther’s banquet. On this second occasion, while they were drinking wine, the king again said to Esther, “Tell me what you want, Queen Esther. What is your request? I will give it to you, even if it is half the kingdom!” Queen Esther replied, “If I have found favor with the king, and if it pleases the king to grant my request, I ask that my life and the lives of my people will be spared."     (Esther 7: 1-3, NLT)

In 2006, a movie was released entitled, "One Night with the King".  It portrays the story of Queen Esther as she risked her life in order to save her people, the Jews.  I want to share with you a footnote,  giving you an overall theme of this book: 

"In the book of Esther, we clearly see God at work in the lives of individuals and in the affairs of a nation.  Even when it looks as if the world is in the hands of evil people, God is still in control, protecting those who are his.  Although we may not understand everything happening around us, we must trust in God's protection and retain our integrity by doing what we know is right.  Esther, who risked her life appearing before the king, became a hero.  Mordecai, who was effectively condemned to death, rose to become the second highest ranking official in the nation.  No matter how hopeless our condition, or how much we would like to give up, we need not despair.  God is in control of our world."  

 (Life Application Bible)

The days of Purim are celebrated even today by the Jewish people.  This annual celebration began as two days of feasting and giving gifts as a result of what Queen Esther and Mordecai were able to accomplish during their time.  There may be something that you are now doing that will continue to live on, long after you are gone.  Create a tradition---You, too, can leave a legacy!

Like Gold

"But if I go to the east, he is not there;

if I go to the west, I do not find him.

When he is at work in the north, I do not see him;

when he turns to the south, I catch no glimpse of him.

But he knows the way that I take;

when he has tested me, I will come forth as gold.

My feet have closely followed his steps;

I have kept to his way without turning aside.

I have not departed from the commands of his lips;

I have treasured the words of his mouth more than my daily bread."

Job 23: 8-12 NIV

In spite of Job's misfortune, he still treasures the words of the Lord more than his daily bread. Even though this is the most difficult time of Job's entire life, he does not let go of his need for the Lord. And, even if the Lord does not relieve Job from all of the things that come against him, he realizes that God knows everything that is going on in his life, and when God is finished testing him, then he will come forth like gold.

Every difficult time we go through shapes us in some way. Remember, if we remain true to Him in all circumstances, not just the good, then we will be molded and shaped to come forth "like gold." May you find peace in the difficult times today. May you understand that He knows your every step. May you stay true to Him and may you come forth like gold.

Father, thank you for all of the seasons in our lives. Thank you for caring enough about us to shape us into the best people we can be in order to do the most for your Kingdom! -Amen

If You're Going to Lose it, Lose it Cheerfully!

"....When this is done, I will go the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish."

After reading Esther chapters 1 - 4, at the end of chapter 4, this verse stuck out to me. Even though everything was going on through the land, including Haman's plot to destroy the Jews, Esther tells them to gather all the Jews in Susa and to fast, then she would go to the king. This is significant because her thirty days of being summoned by the king had passed, and anyone who came into the inner court without being summoned would be put to death.

Esther decided that she would take the chance to go to the king without being summoned, and she says, "If I perish, I perish!" I believe that this is the mentality that we should all take when it comes to serving Christ. If the world is against us, if our back is against the wall, and if the world wants to stone us for our faith, then so be it! If God be for us, who cares who's against us!! Sometimes our faith needs to be stretched, and we need to take it to extreme measures. We can't always stay in our own "comfort zone" if we want to reach the world and win over the harvest!

I learn more and more through my years of being a Christian that we aren't accepted by all the people. We as Christians will always be considered the outcast and will always have the thoughts of being different. Christians need to stand up and voice our opinions to the world and let them know that we may be different in the way we live, but knowing that we have eternal life after this life is enough to endure the struggles of this world! Stay strong in faith, always look to Christ for all your answers, and endure whatever it takes! Esther gives us a strong statement when she says, "If I perish, I perish," and basically she is saying that if she loses her life in an attempt to save the people, then at least she will lose it cheerfully!! God be with us all and give us the courage to "STAND UP!"

Set Your Heart On God

"Still, if you set your heart on God and reach out to him,

If you scrub your hands of sin and refuse to entertain evil in your home,

You'll be able to face the world unashamed and keep a firm grip on life, guiltless and fearless.

You'll forget your troubles; they'll be like old, faded photographs.

Your world will be washed in sunshine, every shadow dispersed by dayspring.

Full of hope, you'll relax, confident again;
you'll look around, sit back, and take it easy.

Expansive, without a care in the world,
you'll be hunted out by many for your blessing.

But the wicked will see none of this.

They're headed down a dead-end road with nothing to look forward to—nothing."

Job 11:13-20, The Message

Everyone has troubles---some of us more than others. Yet, this passage reminds us that, as long as we have God with us and as long as we are living righteously, then we will be able to face the world without shame.

I want to share a passage from a blog I read that I think explains the sentiment of this verse better than anything I could say:

I had an interesting conversation with Mr. Nene. He had stopped by my house Tuesday night. By trade, Mr. Nene is a steelworker. He’s been doing it for over 30 years. On a good month, he’ll make 3000 Haitian dollars. Then, sometimes he’ll go months and not make anything. Just by looking at him, you can tell he’s been through a lot over the last 50 years or so. His wife helps us with the twins. He has five children himself.

I asked him why does he think God has allowed this to happen – for him to live in Haiti – and struggle for every meal? I wanted his view-point on God. I wanted to know if he ever questioned whether God existed since he lives in such an impoverished country.  He told me:

'Who am I to question God? Did Jesus not suffer on the cross? He suffered much more than I ever have. There are nights that my children are hungry, but each day we live. God can give and He can take. In the moments where He takes – my faith only strengthens. Each day is like a test. It’s not always easy – but I’m just His servant. It’s not supposed to be. When you have the Spirit of the Lord in your heart – isn’t that enough? For me, it’s enough. I don’t have to question anything.'

The above is a conversation between a Haitian man and a missionary in Haiti. You can read her entire entry here

You can always learn the most from those who appear to have the least. Enough said.

War in the Heavenlies

"Then he continued, "Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them.  But the prince of the Persian kingdom resisted me twenty-one days. Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, because I was detained there with the king of Persia."   (Daniel 10: 12-13, NIV)

If you have read Frank Peretti's books, "Piercing the Darkness" and "This Present Darkness", the above incident reminds me of his writings.  Even though Peretti's books are set in novel form, the spiritual application, much like what is found in Daniel, is used in his books.  Here we find that an angel has appeared after Daniel has been on a fast and prayer vigil for three weeks.  The angel explains that he had been fighting on Daniel's behalf, in an attempt to bring an answer to Daniel's prayers.  But, the prince of darkness had detained him until Michael, another angel, shows up to help.    

Do you ever feel like Daniel must have felt?  You have prayed.  You have fasted.  But, it all seems to be of no avail.  The answer is not coming.  What else must you do?  Don't lose hope!  An answer is on its way.  May not be today.  May not be tomorrow.  But, rest assured, there are angels working and interceding on your behalf.  They are "warring" in the heavenlies as they fight the enemies of darkness.  Spiritual warfare is going on.  Continue to cry out to God.  Continue to seek His face.  Cry out America!  The battle is on!!  

How Firm a Foundation

"When the builders laid the foundation of the temple of the LORD, the priests in their vestments and with trumpets, and the Levites (the sons of Asaph) with cymbals, took their places to praise the LORD, as prescribed by David king of Israel.  With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the LORD :  'He is good;  his love to Israel endures forever.' And all the people gave a great shout of praise to the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid."     (Ezra 3: 10-12, NIV)

When we were in the beginning phase of the building project for our new church facility, it was so exciting to see the foundation being laid.  It seemed like there was such a delay from when the announcement was first made that a new building was going to be constructed to when we could actually see evidence that it was going to happen.  When the excavating began and the foundation was poured, we now became more excited.  There was now physical evidence that something more would be happening in the future.  And, even though the entire building wasn't constructed, we had the faith to know that, one day, we would see it come to completion.

Much like in our spiritual lives, we need a firm foundation on which to stand.  We need to be grounded in the Word and prayer.  From there, we can build up our spiritual lives, one layer at a time, building upon the things we have experienced or heard.  So, with praise and thanksgiving, sing unto Lord as He builds your earthly "temple". 

When Men Speak Evil Against You

"In order to make sure that his government was run properly, Darius put three other officials in charge of the governors. One of these officials was Daniel. And he did his work so much better than the other governors and officials that the king decided to let him govern the whole kingdom.  The other men tried to find something wrong with the way Daniel did his work for the king. But they could not accuse him of anything wrong, because he was honest and faithful and did everything he was supposed to do. Finally, they said to one another, " We will never be able to bring any charge against Daniel, unless it has to do with his religion."    (Daniel 6: 2-5, Contemporary English Version)

Much like in today's workplace, jealousy abounds amongst co-workers.  One person is doing a really good job and rises to the top.  Those around that individual become jealous and try to find something to report to the boss as to why that person should not have that promotion.  But, as in the case with Daniel, they could not find anything worth reporting, so they thought they would pick on his religion.

Even when we're doing everything right, there will be those that don't like us and want to see us fail.  They are insecure in their own abilities, and in order to make themselves feel better about who they are, they will attempt to bring you down to their level through accusations and insinuations.  And, if you have a strong faith in God, they may strike out at you from that angle, just as they did with Daniel. 

But, irregardless of what others may think about your work ethics or your Christian standards, if you are doing what God has commanded, keep on keeping on!   Keep on honoring God first.  Continue to practice honest, hardworking skills.  Continually seek God's face in spite of what others may think about you.  God will bring you your just reward, and in like manner, will bring them their just punishment. 

Praise Him

At this, Job got up and tore his robe and shaved his head.
Then, he fell to the ground in worship and said:
"Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart. 
The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away;
may the name of the LORD be praised."  Job 1:20-21   (NIV)

Job has just been given the news that his life is now in devastation. He has lost everything. Yet, you will notice that the verse says he fell to the ground "in worship". It does not say he fell to the ground in sorrow or anger. No, he was still in worship.

How often can we say that we will still worship God no matter how bad He allows our life to get? Job notes that the Lord gives and the Lord takes away. Job came to this world with nothing and he will leave with nothing. It is the same for you and I. Everything in between is up to God. He can choose to allow blessings, or He can choose to allow trials. Whichever choice God makes, He always has a greater plan for it. We just can't always see it right away. Sometimes, all we can do is to simply trust Him. We should worship him even more greatly in the difficult times than in the good times. No matter how difficult the storm--- Praise Him!

Give a Smile

"With praise and thanksgiving, they sang to the Lord: 'He is good; his love to Israel endures forever.' And all the people gave a great shout of praise to the Lord, because the foundation of the house of the Lord was laid." (Ezra 3:11 NIV)

During the time of building the temple in Ezra 3, it seems that getting the task done was something heavy upon all the people's heart. Each person played their own part in the process.  Some were masons or carpenters.  Some gave money.  Some offered up burnt offerings, but each person seemed to have a vital role in the process. While many shouted with praise, others who had seen the former temple wept. We should not let the rememberence of former things shoot down the joy of the present miraculous things God has brought!

Though it be a short chapter, I believe Psalm 126 has a lot of power in it, probably inspired from the great and suprising deliverance of the people of God out of bondage from their return out of Babylon in Ezra's time. In verse 2, it says that their mouths were filled with laughter and their tongues with songs of joy. God is able to fill all of us with laughter and joy if we just allow him to do so. I believe God doesn't just want us to go through our everyday lives just as others do, but I believe God wants to look down and see his people filled with laughter and joy and having a good time in His name.

Most people believe that, once they come to Christ, all the fun has to stop.  But, from my personal experience, serving God is an everyday joy! Just knowing what I'm working for and my reason for being gives me a sense of hope and freedom, which makes me smile!! If we act like, talk like, or have the same dull expressions on our face as the world does, then what makes us think that others would want to be like us? It may be hard sometimes, and we may be having a bad day, but God expects us as his people to be different.  SMILE---It makes people think! Have a blessed Labor Day!! :)

Give Credit Where Credit is Due

"About twelve months later, I was walking on the flat roof of my royal palace and admiring the beautiful city of Babylon, when these things started happening to me. I was saying to myself, " Just look at this wonderful capital city that I have built by my own power and for my own glory!" But before I could finish speaking, a voice from heaven interrupted: 'King Nebuchadnezzar, this kingdom is no longer yours.' "    (Daniel 4: 28-31, Contemporary English Version)

A year prior to this event, Daniel interpreted a dream that King Nebuchadnezzar had about a large tree.  The tree represented the king, but it was going to be torn down with only a stump remaining.  The impending result would be that the king would lose all his power, due to his pride, and for seven years,  live in insanity like a cow in the pasture.  After that time, God would bring restoration.  

Talk about giving someone a lesson in humility!  God brought Nebuchadnezzar to his knees, but not before he had to live this degrading lifestyle.  The king had a year, after the dream, for which to repent and heed God's warning, but he refused.  Nebuchadnezzar wanted to dwell on those things that he thought he could take credit for.  "I have built; MY own power; MY own glory!"  It was all about him---no credit given to God.

We must be careful in not giving ourselves too much credit for the things we have in our own lives.  We can tell ourselves that we earned this wonderful career as a result of OUR college education and OUR ability to succeed in the marketplace.  But, without God's help along the way, we would not have been allowed to enjoy those blessings.  Or, some may brag that they have this fancy car, luxurious house with fine furnishings, wearing name-brand clothing---all as a result of THEIR hard work. 

As Christians, God is involved in all areas of our lives.  He gives us the ability to achieve and succeed.  He opens doors of opportunities---don't take them for granted.  Give God credit for all that He has done in your life.  Otherwise, you, too, may find yourself stripped of all that you hold dear and living in a state of temporary "madness".

Shakin' the Family Tree

Today's passages, found in 1 Chronicles, all deal with genealogical records or the recording of descendants (if you're following along with the NLT version).  My first thought was, "How will I find anything to write about with all these names listed---difficult to even pronounce?!"  I have heard a few (and very few) preachers select their text for a message from such passages, especially regarding the heritage of Jesus found in Matthew.  But, overall, I have often wondered why such records would be found in the Bible.  What spiritual application is there?

I may not have a deep, theological answer for you on that one, but I'll share what I feel may be of some importance.  We all have a heritage---we have an ancestry.  Tracing family history and gathering genealogical records has become a hobby, or passion, for some.  I have an uncle who has spent countless hours on the Internet or travelling to different towns or libraries, in search of our family tree.  He hasn't traced it as far back as some families, but he has a better knowledge of his family roots.

We all are probably curious as to, "Who am I?  Where do my traits and characteristics come from?"   It helps us to better understand ourselves, and maybe why we think and act the way we do.  Some may find they descended from someone well-known, and for that reason, they feel more important.  Others will find they have a family history of alcoholism or abuse, and can come to the realization as to why they may have those same  tendencies.  The Bible does refer to "sins being passed from generation to generation".  Just because we gain knowledge about our past, does not mean it has to dictate our future.   It also helps to know, that even though there may be "black sheep" amongst those who have gone before us, doesn't mean that something good, or someone great can't come out of it now! 

Sound the Alarm

"You, son of man, are the watchman. I've made you a watchman for Israel. The minute you hear a message from me, warn them. If I say to the wicked, 'Wicked man, wicked woman, you're on the fast track to death!' and you don't speak up and warn the wicked to change their ways, the wicked will die unwarned in their sins and I'll hold you responsible for their bloodshed. But if you warn the wicked to change their ways and they don't do it, they'll die in their sins well-warned and at least you will have saved your own life."    

 (Ezekiel 33: 7-9, The Message)

Ezekiel was appointed, by the Lord, to be a watchman over Israel.  "The main responsibility of a watchman in an Old Testament town was to warn the citizens of impending danger.  If the watchman was unfaithful, the result would be the tragic loss of life and property."  (footnote, Life Recovery Bible)  Much like Paul Revere's "Midnight Ride" when he raced from Boston to Lexington yelling, "The British are coming!  The British are coming!"  He had to send out a warning of the movements of the British army.  Or, remember the TV series in the late '60's, "Lost in Space"?  The robot would wave its arms when sensing impending danger and shout, "Warning! Danger!"

We need individuals in our lives who will warn us when they see us making choices that could possibly bring us harm.  We need for them to speak to us, with love, and out of concern for our welfare.  Then, there are times, that we need for them to just shout, "Stop doing that!  If you don't change your ways, you'll surely die!"  And, in turn, we need to warn those around us, who are living in sin, that Christ has made a way of escape from the life they are living and share with them about the plan of salvation.  

If we have the knowledge of God's grace and mercy, and we do not share our faith with those around us, God will hold us responsible if that person dies without ever having heard.  Their blood will be on our hands.  However, if we speak, and they choose not to listen, God will no longer hold us responsible.  After all, that person has a free will.  Sound the alarm!  Get the word out!  Jesus is coming, and it may be very soon!