Simple Obedience

16 "Enough!" interrupted Samuel. "Let me tell you what God told me last night."
Saul said, "Go ahead. Tell me."
17-19 And Samuel told him. "When you started out in this, you were nothing— and you knew it. Then God put you at the head of Israel—made you king over Israel. Then God sent you off to do a job for him, ordering you, 'Go and put those sinners, the Amalekites, under a holy ban. Go to war against them until you have totally wiped them out.' So why did you not obey God? Why did you grab all this loot? Why, with God's eyes on you all the time, did you brazenly carry out this evil?"
20-21 Saul defended himself. "What are you talking about? I did obey God. I did the job God set for me. I brought in King Agag and destroyed the Amalekites under the terms of the holy ban. So the soldiers saved back a few choice sheep and cattle from the holy ban for sacrifice to God at Gilgal—what's wrong with that?"
22-23 Then Samuel said, Do you think all God wants are sacrifices— empty rituals just for show? He wants you to listen to him! Plain listening is the thing, not staging a lavish religious production. Not doing what God tells you is far worse than fooling around in the occult. Getting self-important around God is far worse than making deals with your dead ancestors. Because you said No to God's command, he says No to your kingship. I Samuel 15:16-23 Message Bible

This is one of those times when the Word simply speaks for itself. Let these verses soak in for a few minutes and really think about it. How often do we name off our sacrifices to God thinking He will be pleased with that? It isn't that He isn't pleased with sacrifices, but sacrifices without obedience is like "blowing in the wind". More than anything, God wants us to listen to Him and be obedient to His words. When we do listen to Him, we want to add to His plan. We are so accustomed to pleasing man by doing more and more above what they expect of us, that we think God wants the same. God doesn't want us to "improve" His plan. If He had wanted Saul to keep back some animals to sacrifice to Him, then He would have said so. I believe the men were pleased with Saul's decision to let them do this, but God wasn't.

Sure, it's easy to do a little something extra and say, "what's wrong with that". Sometimes it isn't the act that is wrong, but the intent. We can sacrifice our time, sacrifice our money. We can fast, and we can pray for the rest of our lives. We can do it every minute of every day, but we will never be fruitful until we simply do whatever God is telling us to do.

I saw an amazing lesson in my own life this week. Something that I have prayed about for a couple of years now simply happened without any effort on my part. Why did it happen now? I think because not long ago, I simply told God "I am making myself available if you choose to do this and if you don't, then that's ok, too. Either way, I am not going to do anything on my own except to stand here until you tell me to do something." So, one day He opened the door, called my name, and said go do it.

You see, we spend so much time trying to see results out of our own efforts. We pour and pour ourselves into anything and everything just trying to see what we want to see happen and please the Lord. We exhaust ourselves with our efforts when all we really have to do is draw close to God and obey what He says when we get there. He takes care of the rest all by Himself. God needs a willing vessel. He does not need a consultant team or a manager to tell Him how it should be done. Open yourselves up today to the Lord's voice and simply obey. That is all He asks.

Father, open up our ears today. Let us Hear your voice and follow it. Help us to not try to "improve upon" or alter your plan. If you say take one step, help us to take just one and not two. Help us to understand that your ways are not our own, but they are perfect. Give us the wisdom to pour ourselves into the things you ask us to, to receive when you give us the opportunity, to go when you say go, and to stop when you stay stop. In Jesus Name- Amen

Don't Just Assume

"We said to ourselves, 'If anyone speaks disparagingly to us or to our children in the future, we'll say: Look at this model of God's Altar which our ancestors made. It's not for Whole-Burnt-Offerings, not for sacrifices. It's a witness connecting us with you'." (Joshua 22:28, The Message)

Here we find that the tribes of Reuben, Gad and the half-tribe of Manasseh have built an imposing altar at the edge of the Jordan. The rest of the Israelites are on the other side of the Jordan, and they have heard what these tribes have done. So, they send Phinehas, the priest, along with ten chief men, to go and find out what is going on. The Israelites assumed that the altar had been built in rebellion to God, and perhaps, they were going to start their own religion.

Phinehas, and the other men go in and start accusing, "What is this violation against the God of Israel that you have committed, turning your back on God and building your own altar—a blatant act of rebellion against God? . . . If you rebel against God today, tomorrow he'll vent his anger on all of us, the entire congregation of Israel." (vs. 15, 18). After this speech, the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh get a chance to speak, and tell the reason why the altar was built (found in vs. 28 above). They declare, "The Mighty One, God, the Lord---He knows!" After hearing the explanation, Phinehas and the other leaders return to Canaan, and report to the rest of the Israelites. They were glad to hear the report, and talked no more about going to war. Thankfully, they went and talked before they "went and fought".

So often, we may hear or see something and just assume that we know what it's all about. We don't even take an opportunity to go to that individual and find out the real truth. We declare 'war in our heart'. "Assuming the worse about the intentions of others only brings trouble. Israel averted the threat of civil war by asking before assaulting. Beware of reacting before you hear the whole story." (footnote, Life Application Bible).

God, help us not to jump to conclusions before knowing the whole truth. May we give others the "benefit of the doubt". Help us show love instead of posing war. Amen.

You Can Bank On It...

"Not a word failed of any good thing which the LORD

had spoken to the house of Israel. All came to pass." Joshua 21:45

Isn't it amazing to think about the God we serve? God made man in the image of Him. Yet, He still gave man a choice whether to serve Him or not. Often, we are left disappointed when relying on man. Our scripture for today is very clear on just who our God is and that He is truth. If God gives you a promise, you can take it the bank. He does not lie. His promises to you will come to pass.

However, as a human, sometimes it can be difficult to remember what He has promised will come to pass. We become discouraged. We get confused. We feel bewildered. All these feelings are not of God, but of Satan. The devil wants us to become discouraged. He wants us to forget scripture like the one above and so many others. But even when you feel these feelings and have negative thoughts, you must remember that what God has promised no man, no devil, no demon, is big enough to take from you!

The Father has a plan for your life. You may feel as though you can make no big difference. Yet, any difference for His glory is a big deal. So, do not let anyone, yourself, or hell, steal your dreams, for Him! Rely on His promises to get you through the good times and the bad times!

You can take God's promise to the bank. Have a blessed week!

Behind Every Man...

"Surely the Lord was fighting for Israel." Joshua 10:14

I can just see a full-length action movie made about Joshua 10-12! Wow...Joshua, seems to me, like the "man's man". Any guy who thinks the Bible is just for sissies, should dive right into the adventures of Joshua.

Have you ever heard the saying, "Behind every good man..."? It usually ends with..."is a good woman". But with Joshua, I think that behind (beside) this good man was a great God! Time after time, God proves His power through Joshua, by defeating the nations who were raising opposition against His nation.

Joshua was so in tune with the God of the universe that he simply asked God to stop the sun and the moon and it happened. The Bible says "there never has been a day like it before or since, when the Lord listened to a man." God truly was with Joshua! Joshua 10:42 states "the God of Israel, fought for Israel." I would like to think that "the God of Mandy, fights for Mandy."

In a fashion like never before, opposition is rising against Christians. Let's believe that the "God of America, will fight for America." We need to stand up and be heard in the heavens as we cry out for purity in our country and a return to a higher calling! If God be for us...who can be against us!

It's About Time

"I was forty years old when Moses, the servant of the Lord, sent me from Kadesh-barnea to explore the land of Canaan. I returned and gave an honest report. So that day Moses solemnly promised me, ‘The land of Canaan on which you were just walking will be your grant of land and that of your descendants forever, because you wholeheartedly followed the Lord my God.’ Now, as you can see, the Lord has kept me alive and well as he promised for all these forty-five years since Moses made this promise—even while Israel wandered in the wilderness. Today I am eighty-five years old. I am as strong now as I was when Moses sent me on that journey, and I can still travel and fight as well as I could then. So give me the hill country that the Lord promised me." (Joshua 14: 7, 9-12a, NLT)

Caleb is now speaking to Joshua. It's time for Caleb to receive the land that had been promised. So, Joshua blesses Caleb and gives him Hebron as his inheritance.

Caleb was one of the spies that went in to survey the land of Canaan, and he brought back a favorable report. He, along with Joshua, were the only two adults who left Egypt that were allowed to enter the promised land. Caleb was a man of faith and endurance. How many of us would have wanted to wait 45 years to get what we were promised? We would have given up on God, and believed we had misunderstood what was spoken.

Even though Caleb was now 85 yrs. old, he was as strong as ever. He was still willing and able to do the Lord's work. Hebron still had giants and inhabitants in the land, so he had to go in and conquer before he could possess it. Some of us may have thought someone else should have cleared out the land, especially if we had worked and waited for so long. But, not Caleb. The Lord was his strength.

Has God promised you something long ago, and you're still waiting for it to come to fruition? Are you wondering when your time will come? There may be "giants in the land" --- your promised land or destiny. It may be God is waiting on you to go in, conquer those "giants", in order for you to inherit your promise. Could it just be that "you're not waiting on God, but that God is waiting on you?" It's about time for you to claim your promise!

Dear God, Give me the strength to face the giants---to fight and to conquer. May I continue to have faith until I inherit all the blessings that you have promised. Amen!

Shout!

Joshua 6: 16-17, “The seventh time around, when the priests sounded the trumpet blast, Joshua commanded the people, “Shout! For the Lord has given you the city! The city and all that is in it are to be devoted to the Lord.”

In today’s reading of Joshua 3:1-6:27, we see that the Lord gives direction to Joshua, and in return for his obedience, the Lord would exalt Joshua in the eyes of all of Israel. It was then the Israelites would know that the Lord was with him, just as He was with Moses. This is a perfect example given to us, if we will do what the Lord instructs us to do; He will live up to His name Jehovah-Jireh, who is, “Our provider!” If we will do this, He will do that.

Above all, we are called to walk and operate in the fruits of the Spirit. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control (Gal. 5:22-23).” Everywhere we go, operating in the fruit of the Spirit will allow the light of the glory of the Lord to shine through you to people. Allow Christ to be your passion, and people to be your purpose! I am learning more and more that ministry is so much more than holding a microphone---it’s about loving people. Too often are we focused on our lives, and where we are spiritually. Walk in love, joy, and peace---let your light shine. We have a Savior that redeemed us from all trespasses, setting us free! He desires to commune with us everyday. This is the style of living we are commanded to walk out daily!

Just as in the life of Joshua, the Lord gave him commands, and Joshua obeyed. The ending result: “Shout! For the Lord has given you the city! The city and all that is in it are to be devoted to the Lord.” If the Body of Christ would walk in the fruits of the Spirit, cities and regions will be changed! I see God moving through people in big ways. He is touching hearts and transforming lives. Let our BIG God, move BIG in your life. Greater things are yet to come. We might as well, shout! The Lord has given us a city and all that is in it, and we declare this city belongs to the Lord!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d61LamkXfwk
Copy and paste the link above to view:
God of This City - Chris Tomlin

Naomi, Ruth, and the Kinsman Redeemer

³ Now Elimelech, Naomi's husband, died, and she was left with her two sons. ⁴ They married Moabite women, one named Orpah and the other Ruth. After they had lived there about ten years, ⁵ both Mahlon and Kilion also died, and Naomi was left without her two sons and her husband. Ruth 1:3-5 NIV

In this passage, we find Naomi at a desolate time in her life. She had lost her husband and her sons. She had sent her daughter-in-laws away, or so she thought. One of her son's wives remained with her, Ruth. In this time, having no children was a disgrace. Naomi had lost everything she loved. She wandered away into another land. She was lost; she was sad; she felt hopeless. She felt like God was against her. She felt she had nothing left.

16 But Ruth replied, "Don't urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. ¹⁷ Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the LORD deal with me, be it ever so severely, if anything but death separates you and me." ¹⁸ When Naomi realized that Ruth was determined to go with her, she stopped urging her. Ruth 1:16-18 NIV

Ruth understood that standing with Naomi would also lead her into hardship. Yet, she felt a bond strong enough to her former mother-in-law that she was willing to die with her if it came to that. She loved her that much.

After Naomi and Ruth went back to Bethlehem, Boaz bestowed grace on Ruth which she was able to share with Naomi. Boaz was a kinsmen to Ruth through her husband.

²⁰ "The LORD bless him!" Naomi said to her daughter-in-law. "He has not stopped showing his kindness to the living and the dead." She added, "That man is our close relative; he is one of our kinsman-redeemers." Ruth 2:20 NIV

Kinsman Redeemer- The word means to redeem, receive, or buy back. Back in the day of Moses, if someone became poor and was forced to sell part of his property or himself, his nearest of kin could step in and "buy back" what his relative was forced to sell. The nearest of kin had the responsibility of redeeming his kinsman's lost opportunities. They had to be willing and able to do what the relative could not do on his own.

Jesus is our Kinsman Redeemer. He paid a price for us. He redeemed us. He paid that which we were not able to pay.

The book of Ruth is one of devotion, obedience, and loving sacrifices. At some point in our lives, each of us will find ourselves to be a Ruth or a Naomi. Sometimes you feel desolate. You feel like God has given up on you. You wander away, and you feel like Naomi. Sometimes you find yourself loving someone so much that you refuse to leave their side, even if it means going through the hardships with them. You are so devoted to that person that you will die by them if need be. You feel like Ruth. Which one are you today? Naomi, look to Ruth to lead you to the Redeemer when you are too weak or hopeless to look on your own! Ruth, remain obedient to those God has given you in your life! Stand by them and bring back to them the grace from our Kinsman Redeemer! It might be hard for a time, but God will honor the obedience and sacrifice in your life just as he did for Ruth.

Sometimes God calls us to hard places to do hard things, but it never goes unnoticed! May God give you strength to lead loved ones out of the wilderness and into grace through the Redeemer! May God give you wisdom to follow those who are reaching out to you in your time of wilderness! Wherever you find yourself today, the Kinsman Redeemer is waiting to offer His Grace!

God's Not Finished With You Yet

"So Joshua spared Rahab the prostitute and her relatives who were with her in the house, because she had hidden the spies Joshua sent to Jericho. And she lives among the Israelites to this day." (Joshua 6: 25, NLT)

The walls of Jericho have just fallen. Joshua and the priests have marched around the city seven times, sounded the rams' horns and shouted as loud as they could. They will now destroy the city and all that is within it. But, what about Rahab and her kin---what's so special about them?

"Rahab was a prostitute in the city of Jericho. She lived on the edge of society, just one stop short of rejection. Her house, built right into the city wall, provided both lodging and favors to travelers. Rahab chose to hide the two spies, that had been sent by Joshua to check out the city, in spite of knowing it could be dangerous. However, she took on the risk because she sensed that the Israelites relied on a God worth trusting. And, God rewarded Rahab by promising safety for her and her family." (footnote from Life Application Bible)

Rahab is a relative of Boaz, and thus an ancestor of David and Jesus. She is one of only two women listed in the Hall of Faith in Hebrews 11. She was also a prostitute. But, that doesn't seem to matter much. Look at what God accomplished through her. God works through people, like Rahab, even when we or society may reject them. He remembered her because of her faith, not her profession.

Look around you. Do you see the town bootlegger? The local drug dealer? Could God possibly use them to carry out a greater plan? There may be those you view as being a failure, or possibly even yourself, but remember that Rahab rose above her situation through her trust in God. So can you and others---have faith!

God, it's not over 'til it's over. Help me to see the potential within myself even when I see my failures. Let me see others the way you do---the goodness instead of the weakness. Amen.

In An Instant...

This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it.

For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.

Joshua 1:8 (NKJV)

In our scripture from today's reading, God is charging Joshua, Moses' assistant as the new leader of Israel. The Father was very direct with Joshua, as He told him that the Word should not depart his mouth. Furthermore, it should be something he meditates on every day and every night. Why? So that he could do what the Word said and be an effective leader. What is the result of him meditating on the Word? He would prosper and would have success.

Too often we are looking for quick fixes to success. We have the lottery-quick picks, scratch offs, and quarter machines to say the least. We fix supper in the microwave in 15 minutes and expect our families to be pleased with what is put in front of them. We have self-checkouts at the grocery store to make it quicker.

What do all of these things have in common? A quick chance at instant gratification. And what happens when we don't receive that instant gratification? We become angry. We question. We are disillusioned. We lose focus and purpose.

What provides true gratification and fullness? Jesus Christ is the ANSWER! The scripture tells us to think on the Word, to meditate upon the Word. As we meditate on the Word, we understand more and more what God expects of us. When we do those things that He instructs us to do, we will become prosperous in Him! We will have success in Him!

I am not looking for a man promotion, but a God promotion! It doesn't matter whether I know the right person at my job, because as I meditate on the Word and do as it instructs, then God will provide the increase!

Don't look for instant success from things of this world! Don't look for instant happiness from what this world has to offer! But look for success in His Word! Look for hope in His Word!

Have a blessed week!

Root for the Underdog

"Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and the Lord your God redeemed you from there." Deuteronomy 24:18

The Golden Rule: "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you..." Matthew 7:12

One thing I can remember learning as a child was The Golden Rule. At the time, I had no idea that it was in the Bible. At a very young age, I was taught that you treat everyone equal, because not one person is above another. Society always seems to classify people, and it starts as early as elementary school. My mom always told me "Root for the under-dog". So I did. I wasn't always popular for it, but at least I learned a few lessons about integrity.

Isn't it the "under-dog" that captivates our attention anyway? Especially looking at stories in the Bible. It seems that God "roots for the underdog" too! David, for instance, the smallest of the family. None of his family thought he would ever outgrow his job of being the family sheep herder. Not until, he boldly steps forward and conquers Goliath.

The "underdog syndrome" can be found throughout the Bible. Daydreamers. Stutterers. Murderers. Shepherds. Slaves. Prostitutes. We think our life is full of drama! But as I stated earlier, God "roots for the underdog". Society looks at the outward appearance, but He looks at the inward appearance. Look at 1 Samuel 16:7 where God says that He had rejected Saul. He tells Samuel, "Don't consider Saul's height or his appearance."

So to sum all this up, let me go back to the verse I chose for today, Deuteronomy 24:18. God reminds the Israelites that they used to be dependent people, looking to their masters for sustenance. Now, that God brought them into the Promised Land, he did not want them to forget their humble beginning. In their blessings, He wanted them to share the prosperity with the unfortunate and to never look down upon them.

Never let your abundance become a stumbling block for others.
Show God's love through the gifts that He has given you.

Simple Math . . . Go Figure

“If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully keep all his commands that I am giving you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations of the world. But if you refuse to listen to the Lord your God and do not obey all the commands and decrees I am giving you today, all these curses will come and overwhelm you:" (Deut. 28: 1, 15 NLT)

X + Y = Z. Simple algebra equation. Obedience + Keeping commands = Blessings. Refusal to listen + disobedience = Curses. Which would you prefer? Seems like a simple answer, but not so quick.

Of course, we all want to receive God's blessings. Who wouldn't? But, are you willing to pay the price of total obedience to Him in order to receive them? Deut. 26: 16b states: "So, be careful to obey them (regulations) wholeheartedly." How many people do anything wholeheartedly these days? The majority seem to think as long as the job gets done, what does it matter how it gets done. So what, if I skip and save there? Who's going to notice? "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men (Colossians 3:23 NIT). Employers, post this on your wall---remind your workers who they're really working for!

In this world, we must serve God or Satan. No more choices. "Because you did not serve the LORD your God joyfully and gladly in the time of prosperity, therefore in hunger and thirst, in nakedness and dire poverty, you will serve the enemies the LORD sends against you. (Deut. 28: 47-48a, NIT). There you have it! The choice is yours --- blessings or curses.

"God, may we strive to serve you daily with our whole heart. Let us always be grateful for the many blessings that you give us. Amen."

The Test of Love

Throughout our daily activities, we will encounter situations in which we may be tested. Our love and generosity will be put to the test. Opportunities to love and give constantly surround us. We should always keep our eyes and our ears open, so when the moments arise, we can rise to the occasion to bless a life, revealing the love of Christ. Around here at HPC, we call that finding needs and meeting them!

Deuteronomy 15:7-8 commands, “If there is a poor man among your brothers in any of the towns of the land that the Lord your God is giving you, do not be hardhearted or tightfisted toward your poor brother. Rather be openhanded and freely lend him whatever he needs.” All around us, there are needs that must be met, physical needs, financial needs, spiritual needs. Whether poor financially or poor in spirit, we should be so full of the Holy Ghost, that if we find a need, we have faith and courage to lend them whatever they need! Remember, we can never out give God.

Jesus proclaimed in Matthew 25:40, “Assuredly, I say to you, in as much as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.” In other words, if we do it unto them, we do it unto Him! It is another way for us to speak through our actions, “I love you Jesus!” Listen to what Luke 6:35 teaches, “Do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great.” When it comes time for us to show love, to give, and perform good works, why is always more important to God than what! That is the test of love. May we constantly pray, “Lord, keep my heart right, and my motives pure.” For it is when our hearts are right and the motives are pure that the Glory of the Lord will be poured out, transforming lives through love!

Purity and Obedience

Judges 2:1-3 (The Message)
1-2God's angel went up from Gilgal to Bokim and said, "I brought you out of Egypt; I led you to the land that I promised to your fathers; and I said, I'll never break my covenant with you—never! And you're never to make a covenant with the people who live in this land. Tear down their altars! But you haven't obeyed me! What's this that you're doing?
3 "So now I'm telling you that I won't drive them out before you. They'll trip you up and their gods will become a trap."
4-5 When God's angel had spoken these words to all the People of Israel, they cried out—oh! how they wept! They named the place Bokim (Weepers). And there they sacrificed to God.

God had told the Israelites to completely conquer the land and they disobeyed Him. When God gives us a command in our lives, He always has our best interest in mind. He knew that if they allowed even part of the current inhabitants to remain then the Israelites would soon be tempted by their ways. Future generations would mix with the other tribes, their sons and daughters would marry, and soon they would forget the rich inheritance from the one true God that they brought with them. Of course, when God brought the failure to their attention through an angel then the Bible says they wept. They had regrets.

What was God really asking of them? He asked them to clean out the land and to keep it pure. They decided that cleaning out most of it was good enough. Even today, God calls us to purity in our lives. Leaving parts of the world in our hearts only leaves an open door for more to come in later. It's easy to think that if we clean up most of our life then the little things won't affect us. It's amazing how little things can become big things quickly. It only takes one little breach in our faith for the enemy to eat at our weakness until he can move everything else back in. It is a difficult task to completely purify our lives. It is a task we may never fully accomplish in our lifetimes but we must continue to obey God and conquer each area one at a time.

"Spiritually, there is a great lesson for a new generation of Israelites to learn-namely, that with obedience comes prosperity; with disobedience, adversity. It is a lesson which the older Israelites had learned through the wilderness wandering and the initial conquest of Canaan, but the passing of the older generation leaves a vacuum of any real dedication to God or his laws. From this point forward, Israel heads into both spiritual and political decline."

"The incomplete conquests have left Israel vulnerable to pagan influences around them....A strong spirit of compromise leads to intermarriage, idolatry, and immorality."- The Daily Bible Footnotes

Why has God called us to study the Bible from beginning to end, Chronologically, this year? Perhaps it is because he needs to take us back to our roots before He can show us how to move forward. Personally, if I had time, I believe I could take the history of America in reference to Christianity and compare the path of the Israelites to where we find ourselves in our country today. Just as with the Israelites, we now face a strong spirit of compromise across our land and disobedience has led to adversity.

Judges 2:16-19 (The Message)
16-17 But then God raised up judges who saved them from their plunderers. But they wouldn't listen to their judges; they prostituted themselves to other gods—worshiped them! They lost no time leaving the road walked by their parents, the road of obedience to God's commands. They refused to have anything to do with it.
18-19 When God was setting up judges for them, he would be right there with the judge: He would save them from their enemies' oppression as long as the judge was alive, for God was moved to compassion when he heard their groaning because of those who afflicted and beat them. But when the judge died, the people went right back to their old ways—but even worse than their parents!—running after other gods, serving and worshiping them. Stubborn as mules, they didn't drop a single evil practice.

The people repented and each time they did, God raised up another judge to deliver them. In other words, he raised up a righteous leader to guide them back into obedience. The obedience lasted as long as the leader was alive and that in itself is another posting. Regardless of how that turned out for the Israelites, we don't have to accept deliverance in short term today. Repentance from the Christians of our nation could move God to raise up a leader to deliver us from the adversity we currently face. Strong leaders who will intercede on behalf of the world could cause God to rain down compassion on us. After that, it would be up to us to make it a permanent way of life.

Closing Prayer:

Father, today we come to you as broken and conflicted as the Israelites were in their day. We have allowed a spirit of compromise to lead our lives and our church services all across this nation. We have allowed the world to dictate who we will become rather than allowing You to shape and mold us. After all of these years, we find ourselves in the middle of adversity, conflict, and pain. As Christian, we repent of these ways and pray for long lasting deliverance. We ask you today to raise up righteous leaders who will guide us back to obedience. We ask you to convict the hearts of Christians to seek you first among all things. Help us to see the weak areas in our lives and move us to lives of purity where the darkness has no place. Finally, we pray for Christian intercessors to be raised up all over the world to pray for a new spiritual revival not just in America but in all nations. In Jesus Name- Amen

No Other Gods

“Suppose someone secretly entices you—even your brother, your son or daughter, your beloved wife, or your closest friend—and says, ‘Let us go worship other gods’—gods that neither you nor your ancestors have known. They might suggest that you worship the gods of peoples who live nearby or who come from the ends of the earth. . . do not give in or listen." (Deut. 13: 6 - 8a, NLT)

The first commandment: "You shall have no other gods before me". God is a jealous god. He wants no one taking His place. And, if this occurs, there is a due penalty for our sin. Serious enough that God said "stone the guilty ones to death because they have tried to draw you away from the Lord your God . . . " (vs. 10a). Fortunately, through Christ's death on the cross, the consequences for our sinful behavior are not so extreme today.

But, even so, God still will not tolerate idolatry. In today's world, there are different forms of "gods and idols". Money, relationships, careers, etc. can be put ahead of your relationship with God. Anything that pulls you away from God---takes more of your time and energy than serving God---can become an idol. Do you wake up thinking about that lucrative job you have? Is that the last thing on your mind at night? Are you thinking about ways to make more money during most of your waking hours? Then, you may want to evaluate this area of your life.

And, furthermore, are there close friends or relatives who are pulling you away from your relationship with God? God wants you to have close family ties, but not at the expense of spending less time with Him. In a marriage relationship, it's important to encourage one another in order to help strengthen the spiritual life of your spouse.

Last, but not least, it's sad to say that even religion can become an idol. There are those who will spend more time obeying the rules and regulations of a denomination, than they do in having a "relationship" with Jesus Christ. And, God says, these things should never be. He wants us to lay aside any thing, regardless of how good it may seem, that hinders us in really "knowing" Him!

"Dear God, may we always put you first and foremost in our daily life. Amen."

All My Heart & All My Soul

And now, Israel, what doth the LORD thy God require of thee, but to fear the LORD thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the LORD thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul"  

Deuteronomy 10:12

Happy Monday!  Thank God for another day to be used by Him for His glory and honor!  Today's reading from the chronological bible features so many rich texts that speak volumes to my heart.  However, I wanted to focus on the scripture above.  

This scripture is often quoted, especially the last half.  What does our Lord and Savior require from us?  It seems so simple doesn't it?  

First, we must fear Him.  Does this mean He wants us to be scared of Him?  Not in the least.  To me, the start of fearing the Lord is just realizing that He spoke and it happened.  The start of fearing the Lord is believing how true that children's church song is, He's got the whole world in His hands.  

Too, we must love Him.  It is so easy to say, "I love you."  It is easy to plaster a bumper sticker on your car that says, "I love Jesus."  But, loving Jesus means walking with Him, having communion with Him on a daily basis.  For those of you who have found the love of your life, how long would your relationship last if you didn't talk to your husband or wife everyday?  How long would love last, if you only were in communion with them on Sundays and maybe once during the week?  I think we all know the answer.  Love Jesus during the hard times, the easy times, and the times when it isn't popular with those around you, friends or family.  He showed us true love?  Are we showing Him true love?  

We also must walk in His ways.  How do you know His way?  By reading His Word, praying, and listening for Him to speak to you.  Not only does the scripture tell us to fear Him, to walk in His ways, to love Him, but it also tells us to serve Him with all our heart and our soul.  Serve Him on your job, serve in your home, even if you are the only one.  Give Him your all, everyday.  Do you give it your all on your job?  Well, if so, your ultimate job is serving Him.  Are you giving Him your all or taking extra breaks?  

I am closing with this video.  If you have time, it is a very familiar song that sums up what I have said.  Be blessed and have an awesome week.  

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U8mr839-TVs

Amazing Grace!

"And the Lord heard the sounds of your words, and was angry, and took an oath, saying 'Surely not one of these men of this evil generation shall see that good land of which I swore to give to your fathers, except Caleb the son of Jephunneh; he shall see it, and to him and his children because he wholly followed the Lord. The Lord was also angry with me (Moses) for your sakes, saying, 'Even you shall not go in there.' Joshua, the son of Nun, who stands before you, he shall go in there." Deuteronomy 1:34-38

Deuteronomy, to me, is Moses' last will and testament. In his old age he gathers the Israelites around him and recounts the many acts of God's faithfulness to them during the past 40 years. During one of his speeches, he makes a point in reminding them why he will not be entering the Promised Land. He said "The Lord was also angry with me, for your sakes saying 'Even you shall not go in there."

We know that God cannot lie, He can't revoke His promises. But we, being weak mortal souls can fail God, thus aborting the promise He placed within us. Deuteronomy 28 shows us the "blessings of obeying" and the "curses for disobeying". Although Moses was on the fast track to experiencing the Promised Land, he was abruptly stopped by his disobedience.

I like to think that just like Father God turned His head while His son agonized on the cross, he may have had the same feelings for Moses. God was so hurt that Moses would not be able to rejoice after such longsuffering. If you're a parent you can relate. You promise your child the newest toy in the store, but he acts in disobedience and you reluctantly have to become a teacher of morals, thus breaking your child's heart and your own.

So let's go thousands of years later. Jesus takes Peter, James and John to the Mount of Olives or also known as the Mount of Transfiguration. Matthew 17:2-3 reads, "While they watched, Jesus' appearance was changed; his face became bright like the sun, and his clothes became white as light. Then MOSES and Elijah appeared unto them, talking with Jesus." Isn't God's grace amazing?! Moses was placed on top of a mountain, smack dab in the middle of the land that God had promised His chosen people. He was not by himself either, but with Jesus and Elijah! I'm sure this was more than Moses could've ever asked or even thought. Two of the most important leaders of the Old Testament were joined. God had given Moses the Law, and Elijah was a significant prophetic voice.

If you feel like you have failed God, read Deuteronomy 28:1-14. He give us details on how to live an abundant life. Thank God that He has a huge eraser for the blackboard! Get up, wipe the dust off yourself and try again!

Jesus, I humble my heart before you, even when I feel that I have missed the mark. I pray that the spirit of condemnation would be broken and that your conviction would draw me closer to you. As I confess my sins and faults to you, please allow your blood to cover each and every one of them. Change my heart and renew my mind as I once again come running after you. In the precious name of Jesus, AMEN!

Break Camp and Move On

“When we were at Mount Sinai, the Lord our God said to us, ‘You have stayed at this mountain long enough. It is time to break camp and move on." (Deut. 1: 6-7a NLT)

The Israelites are standing ready to enter the promised land. But, before they go in, Moses has some important advice to give them. He begins by reviewing the history of God's previous care for them. Sometimes, it's good to look back at where we've come in order to prepare for where we're going.

What should have been an 11-day journey has now turned into a 40 yr. experience. The Israelites just couldn't seem to "get it together". They rebelled; they complained. God just wanted them to live in obedience to Him. So, they wandered and wandered around the "same old mountain." That's why the Lord said, "Break camp and move on". Enough is enough!

In my Renewal meetings, I often say not to get "stuck" in the process. Whether that be in grief recovery or addictive behaviors, if you find yourself not being able to move on, then you have camped out "at the foot of your mountain". The process may seem too hard; the journey has become too long. You may feel as though God has not helped you enough --- He has not delivered you. Pastor Eric will often say, "You're not waiting on God --- God is waiting on you." God is trying to teach you something, and if you don't adhere to His wisdom and apply the advice, God will not take you to the next step.

"Your spiritual pilgrimage may be lengthy, and you may face pain, discouragement and difficulties. But remember that God isn't just trying to keep you alive. He wants to prepare you to live in service and devotion to Him." (footnote from Life Application Bible)

Drive Them Out!

Numbers 33:55, “But if you do not drive out the inhabitants of the land, those you allow to remain will become barbs in your eyes and thorns in our sides. They will give you trouble in the land where you live.”

In the last month I have traveled around to various parts of this state to worship with young people. I have witnessed students of all ages go after God with all they have. One evening as I was worshiping God, I opened my eyes, and saw these young people worshipping with all their might. I could see how bad the Lord wants to raise up a generation of young people who will walk in righteousness and purity. In this season of my life, I have never experienced such strong passion for young people as I do right now. Working with students can be very frustrating at times, they tell you they are going to do one thing, then go and do another. Sometimes I just want to say, “forget it, if they aren’t going to listen, then I am not going to waste my breath.” However, I know that God never gave up on me, so I can’t give up on them.

One huge hurdle that young people struggle to get over more than any other is who they surround themselves with. However, I have also recently noticed a number of adults who struggle with the same issue. The truth of the matter is this, if we are going to walk in righteousness and purity, this is one hurdle that must be conquered. The bottom line is you are who you surround yourself with. It is a slow fade, and the people who we are surrounded with, we will be like. As children of God, we are called to influence, not to be influenced. If we are not careful, and allow ourselves to be around people who are not hungry for God, we will lose our hunger for God. Just like the curiosity of a teenager when it comes to drinking, drug use, or sexual immorality, adults as well, are enticed by the people they are surrounded with. If the people we choose to be around do not push us forward in God, they are pushing us backwards.

God warned the Israelites if they did not drive the wicked inhabitants out of the promise land, later these people would become a great irritation. And that is exactly what happened. Just like the Israelites were hesitant to drive out the wicked inhabitants, sometimes we are hesitant to drive out the wicked inhabitants that influence our life. If we do not, irritation will transpire, and we will spiritually decline in our walk with God. Be sure you are being the leader Christ has called you to be, and not a follower allowing others to influence your life. There is nothing, or no one who is worth the relationship we have with Christ. If there are relationships in your life that cause you so much grief, hardship, and even seem to be a thorn in your side, it may be best to drive them out! Allow 1 Thessalonians 5:11 to be the foundation of all relationships that are in your life. For it commands us, “Encourage one another and build each other up!”

Wherever You Go

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."
Joshua 1:9

Moses had passed away and Joshua was about to take on the greatest challenge of his life. He was going to take the people across the Jordan River into the Promised Land. I can only imagine how nervous he would have been facing this challenge head on. They had dreamed about this for years and now he was responsible for finally getting them there all by himself. Or, maybe he felt like he had to do it by himself. God wanted him to know he wasn't alone. He said He would be with Him every step of the way!

On Sunday, I found myself sitting in a hospital room on the pediatrics floor. The day had started out normally and ended with a trip to the Emergency Room for my 7 yr. old daughter, Hannah. The last words that I heard in the ER were "surgery" and soon enough we were whisked upstairs to await her scheduled time for appendix removal. I know it is a routine surgery that many have had, but that didn't make this mother feel any better about her daughter going through it. This illness had gone on for months and I wanted her to have relief, but I was also fearful. Sitting next to her bed, she began asking questions and I knew she was also scared. Suddenly, she began singing "No Sweeter Name." I realized that my daughter knew Who to turn to when she was scared. I smiled and we both began singing that song. Then, we talked about Jesus going into the surgery with her and prayed for Him to do so. From that moment on, we were both peaceful. I knew that the Lord was with her and so did she.

Are you facing a difficult situation today? Do you fear your next step? Do you feel unqualified to make the next decision? Call on the Lord! He can give you strength, wisdom, and peace in every situation! Remember, we are never alone with the Lord by our side!

No sweeter name than the Name of Jesus
You are the life to my heart and my soul
You are the light to the darkness a- round me
You are the hope to the hopeless and broken
You are the only truth and the way
You are the life to my heart and my soul
You are the light to the darkness a- round me
You are the hope to the hopeless and broken
You are the only truth and the way

"Pledge" Is More Than a Polish

"When a man makes a vow to the LORD or takes an oath to obligate himself by a pledge, he must not break his word but must do everything he said." (Numbers 30:2 NIV)

"I pledge allegiance to the flag . . . " "Do you swear to tell the whole truth, and nothing but the truth . . ." "Do you take _____ to be your wedded wife (husband), to have and to hold, till death do you part?" These are just a few of the oaths or pledges one may make over the course of a lifetime. Our promises are so important. These are not words to be taken lightly.

But, what happens when a commitment is broken? If you turn your back on your patriotism to the United States, you're guilty of treason. If you lie on the witness stand, you're guilty of perjury. If you break your wedding vows, you could find yourself in divorce court. There is a due penalty for not keeping your word.

A "pledge" can be defined as "a solemn promise or agreement to do or refrain from doing something". It's usually not a written contract, even though it can be. It used to be a man's word meant something --- it was a binding contract. Now, it seems as though many will say one thing and do another. And, then we wonder why people can't be trusted anymore.

Maybe it's time to look at some of the things in which we have made an oath or pledge. Have you pledged a certain amount of money to the church building fund, and yet to "pay up"? Are there areas of your marriage vows that have weakened since it seems "for better or worse" is mostly "worse than better"? Are you keeping on schedule to your commitment to read the Bible through this year?

I looked at the Pledge website, and this is their tag line: "Keep your furniture clean and beautiful". If a polish can do all that, then shouldn't our "pledges" keep our hearts and souls clean and beautiful as well.

God, you are not a man that you should lie. May we also "mean what we say, and say what we mean." Amen!

God Appointed and God Anointed

Then Moses spoke to the LORD, saying: “Let the LORD, the God of the spirits of all flesh, set a man over the congregation, who may go out before them and go in before them, who may lead them out and bring them in, that the congregation of the LORD may not be like sheep which have no shepherd.”

Numbers 27:15-17 

In our reading today, we discover Moses getting to see the Promised Land, yet, he does not get to enter because of previous rebellion.  Moses responds to God; notice, he talked with God.  Do you talk to God on a daily basis?  Are you having a conversation with God?  A conversation requires you to listen sometimes too.  Moses asks the Lord to choose a new leader over the people of Israel.  Moses states that the congregation needed a leader who lead them out and bring them in, and the people needed a leader so they would not be like sheep wandering aimlessly.  God responds by choosing Joshua as the new leader over the people.  

Moses did not go to the Lord with someone in mind; however, he asked God to put someone in place, and that is what God did.  Often times we have self-appointed or man-appointed leaders, who, while having good intentions, lack the anointing from the Lord and lead the flock astray.  

I am glad our Father in heaven, is interested in what is happening here on Earth!  He desires to see our ministries filled with leaders who have been placed by Him.  Just as you are probably tired of politics getting into every aspect of our life, I am too, and I do not believe that is how God originally arranged things.  If we trust in Him, He will send the right person to lead a ministry.  And when we know that person anointed for that position by God, and not  appointed by man, then we can be assured we will be like a flock of sheep with a shepherd.  

I am glad that our church has leaders who have been appointed and anointed by the Lord!!!  Our prayer each day and my closing prayer for this blog entry is that God uplifts our leaders.  May God provide our leaders with direction and wisdom.  I pray God blesses them and their families richly.  May the Lord bless them and keep them, may the Lord make His face shine upon them and be gracious unto them.  May God lift up His countenance upon our leaders and give them peace.  Amen...

You Rebels!

"Listen, you rebels, must we bring water out of the rock?" Numbers 20:10

I saw a few things in today's reading that made me smile. I'm sure at the time these events were occuring it was no laughing matter. You find Moses at the point of just pulling his hair out in Numbers 20:1-5. The Israelite community had rose opposition against Moses and Aaron, saying "Why did you bring us out of Egypt to this terrible place?" After the Israelites rude discourse the next verse says, "Moses and Aaron went from the assembly to the entrance to the Tent of Meeting and fell FACEDOWN, and the glory of the Lord appeared to them." Way to go, Moses! You took the high road of praying for the people instead of writing them off , which most of us probably would've done. When Moses didn't know what to do, he knew where to go! So he falls facedown before the Lord. The Lord reveals to Moses a way to provide the Israelites with water. Moses goes back to the people and says, "Listen, you rebels, must we bring water out of this rock?" Now if Moses had done what God had told him to, it would've been awesome, but he didn't obey the instructions God had given him and the whole community was punished.

It feels great (to our flesh) to feel like you have won a battle with your words or even with actions. Inside you're saying, "I showed them..." But just like Moses, we can allow our anger and hostility to over-ride the voice of God. Moses knew exactly what to do, he went before God and presented himself. God spoke. And that was as far as it went. What would've happened if Moses had been a mouth piece for God and spoke to the rock instead of using blunt force to bring water out of the rock? I have to believe that 1) a quicker trip to the Promise Land would entail 2) Moses would've gained Godly respect 3) Moses would've been able to experience the Promise Land

So today, before you allow your anger and hostility to detour you. Seek God first and allow the Holy Spirit to direct your steps. We were made to be overcomers!

Look Up and Live

"So Moses made a bronze snake and put it up on a pole. Then when anyone was bitten by a snake and looked at the bronze snake, he lived." (Numbers 21:9 NIV)

Once again, we find the Israelites, murmuring and complaining about their food and water. Because of their rebellious attitudes, God sends a plague of poisonous snakes. Many were bitten and died. They go to Moses to ask him to pray that God will take away the snakes. Instead of the snakes being removed, Moses made a replica of a snake, and attached it to a pole, just as the Lord had instructed. "All who are bitten will live if they simply look at it!" (vs. 8b).

Isn't that interesting that the thing (the snake) which was bringing death and destruction was now capable of bringing healing and life?! But, it's not the snake that brought healing, but their obedience to do what God had commanded. The people had a choice --- do we look at the bronze snake and live, or do we turn our heads and die? It doesn't seem like too hard of a decision. But, it called for faith to believe that God would do what He said.

In like manner, our salvation happens when we look up to Jesus, believing He will save us. John 3: 14-15 states, "Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes in Him may have eternal life." God has provided a way for us to be healed of sin's deadly bite. But, we still have a choice --- we have to look up!

In the Land of Milk and Honey

March 4th, Numbers 14:1- 15:41

I believe that we all have callings, and dreams that are inspired by the Lord. We all have a passion for something. Something we will die for, or better yet something we will live for! Such a passion or dream could be our very destiny or mission in which the Lord has planned for our lives! When we begin to live out and operate in our dream, we are in the land of milk and honey the Lord designed us for.

The Lord promised the Israelites a land of milk and honey, but when they found the land, they found a problem. Referring back to yesterdays reading, Numbers 13:32-33 states, “The land we explored devours those living in it. All the people we saw there are of great size. (v.33) we saw the Nephilim (the descendants of Anak come from the Nephilim). We seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and we looked the same to them.” From this kind of description, there may be no other explanation other than; there are giants in your land of milk and honey. Picking up chapter 14, we see that the people are tormented in fear to the point they were wishing they would have experienced death while in Egypt. Because of their fear, disobedience, and unsuccessful attempt to enter the promised they are condemned to wander 40 years in the desert.

The bottom line is, when you are coming upon our dream, or even living out your destiny, there will be giants in your land of milk and honey. If you choose to urn away, you wonder aimlessly! Instead of running away, know that our Lord is strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle (Psalms 24:8). Is there anything too difficult for the Lord? There is not, because the same power that conquered the grave is the same power that dwells in us. We are not given a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind (2 Tim 1:7). We have a power that is on the inside of us, His name is Jesus, and there is no reason to be afraid of the giants. It may be the time to face the giants. As you are currently living in your destiny, or operating in your dream, when you come upon a giant, be encouraged because you are on the right track! With Christ in us the hope of glory, just like David, we too can be giant killers, and live in a land of milk and honey designed by the Lord!

What is Clean?

You must keep the Israelites separate from things that make them unclean, so they will not die in their uncleanness for defiling my dwelling place, which is among them. Leviticus 15:31 NIV

This passage is preceded by several laws regarding what is clean and unclean that make me grateful for God's grace. In spite of that, I saw this passage in a new way tonight. It would be easy to discuss what is clean and unclean even if it is not correct, because most of us have a list in our minds of where everything falls. Our lists are probably as long as the laws of Leviticus, truth be told. I could discuss that, but tonight I raise a different question. Are we trying to steer clear of the obvious sin while immersing ourselves in sin we don't even see?

For example, I have found lately that it doesn't take an everyday conversation long to turn into gossip and judgment. Since I work in a public place then I hear a lot of that all day long. Everyday I battle to stay away from these conversations. Honestly, sometimes I do well and sometimes I fail. Some nights I find myself mulling over what popular opinion says is wrong. Often times, I wonder what Jesus thinks of it and I am not sure He would see it all the way most do. More often than not, I wonder why there is a need for anyone to have the conversation at all. After all, it is generally not followed by a prayer session for the "poor sinner."

So I ask you this, who are the unclean ones really? Would Jesus look more kindly upon those who were judging the sinner or would he look more kindly upon the sinner?Would it be better to be lost and not know your way or to be found and hinder others from finding the way?

That is just one example of sin that we might participate in without even realizing it. Some sin is apparent. Some sin is obvious, outright, and easily identified. Most of the time, people who struggle with those types of issues are aware of it and may already be talking to God about it. God wants those people to enter His temple. He wants them to come, to receive love, mercy, and forgiveness. How else will they find it if they don't enter in? I wonder if it is the sin we don't recognize that truly defiles our temples? Do we carry sin into our place of worship every week without acknowledging it or repenting of it? Do we stand before God feeling blameless while He sees dark places in our hearts that we ignore? Is it possible that we are so accustomed to some things that we don't even realize it is sin? Could it be that the line between being clean and unclean falls a little closer to home than we would like to admit?

I think my closing prayer today could not be better said than the words from the song, "Clean Hands"

We bow our heart and we bend our knees
O Spirit come make us humble
We turn our eyes from evil things
O Lord we cast down our idols
So give us clean hands and give us pure hearts
Let us not lift our souls to another
O God let us be a generation that seeks
That seeks your face, O God of Jacob

Taking On the Giants

"We went to the land to which you sent us and, oh! It does flow with milk and honey! Just look at this fruit! The only thing is that the people who live there are fierce, their cities are huge and well fortified. Worse yet, we saw descendants of the giant Anak." (Numbers 13: 27-28 The Message)

Moses has sent 12 of his men, one from each tribe, into Canaan, the Promised Land. They are supposed to scout out the land, and take back a report of what kind of land it is---whether it is fertile or poor, if the towns are unwalled or fortified, etc. They are also suppose to take back some of the fruit. After 40 days of exploring the land, the report is recorded in the above scriptures. They are also carrying a cluster of grapes which is so large that it requires two men to carry it on a pole between them.

Now, to me that sounds like pretty good land. Not only did it have large clusters of grapes, but it also had figs and pomegranates. That meant the soil was fertile, and there were plenty of trees. The Israelites could have something else to eat besides manna! But . . . there is this big BUT --- there were giants in the land. The cities had walls all around. They felt like grasshoppers in the sight of the inhabitants.

However, vs. 30 states: "Caleb interrupted, called for silence before Moses and said, "Let's go up and take the land—now. We can do it." Now, here is a man with confidence! He steps out from amongst the crowd, and proclaims his faith in God to accomplish great things. He saw the formidable size of the enemy, but he wanted to proceed anyway.

You may be facing some giants in your life. You may have financial difficulties that seem insurmountable. Your family situation just seems to be getting worse. Your health is failing even though you've prayed for healing. You want to believe that God is faithful, that He's bigger than all your problems, but some days, it seems hard to muster up that faith. That's when it's time to focus on the "milk and honey" in your life. Look at all the good things God has done for you. Allow your faith to rise up, and declare, "I can take on those giants with the help of God. I can go forth and claim those promises that God has for me!" We may seem small in the eyes of the enemy, but our God is BIGGER~~~and better!

Methods of Measuring

Don't cheat when measuring length, weight, or quantity. Use honest scales and weights and measures. I am God, your God. I brought you out of Egypt. Leviticus 19:35-36 (Message Bible)

I have learned something interesting about measurement. We tend to measure others differently than we measure ourselves. It seems we have a different yardstick that we pull out if we are looking at another. Isn't that especially so if we are speaking of a brother or sister in Christ? "Well, they should know better. I can't believe they would do that!", we will say. Then we look in the mirror and say, "well, God understands I can't be perfect. I am doing the best I can." Isn't it the truth? We do that, don't we?

People in church really like to use measurements in thought. We might think, "I have helped with this and that, I also volunteer for that thing, and I have given this much money." Then we look at the other person and compare our "volume" of serving. More often than not, we are certain our "volume" is larger than their "volume" and surely that must count for something, right? Don't we often get our feelings hurt because favor was given to someone who we felt had done or given less than we had?

So, why is it that when we pull out our "holy yardstick"...you know the one we use on other people that our measurements don't seem to match up to God's measurements? Why does He give this person favor over us when surely He can see what we have done? I'll tell you why that is. It is because God uses only one form of measurement and it is counted in increments of LOVE & GRACE!

I tell you, we really don't want to be caught "measuring" in front of the Lord for fear that He would turn that "spiritual yardstick" back on us. After all, if we stand across from Jesus wouldn't His actions always outweigh ours? Should we ask God what is fair? I would be afraid for God to use "fair" standards when measuring my life. Wouldn't you?

I had a dream the other night. It seems that the Pastor was delivering a sermon. I am not certain what he was saying, but I know we were being rebuked. Then a woman stood up and started listing all of the things she had done as reasons why she did not deserve to be rebuked.
The Pastor looked out into the congregation and said, "I appreciate everything each of you have done for this church but sometimes all I want to know is- do you love God? Do you really love Him?"

This was a dream of mine and has no connection with our Pastor. It did make me think though. You see, if we really loved God then we would be able to transfer that love onto those who we often judge so harshly. We would notice their faults less and we would pray for their maturity rather than celebrating their shortcomings. Sometimes it would be good for us to quit "measuring" everything by our standards which usually consists of increments of "I did" and "I deserve" but instead started "measuring" things by God's standards....increments of love and grace. Thank God for the servant's heart, but works are meaningless if they are not accompanied by a large dose of love and grace. I think we would find our Spirits looking upon others much more kindly if we started pouring in more love and grace to the recipe.

I heard someone say a prayer recently, "God help us to always give each other the benefit of the doubt." Do you know what that translates into? I think it translates into "God help us to offer love and grace to one another."

If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen. I Peter 4:11 NIV

Father, forgive us for applying different forms of measurement to others than we do ourselves. Today I pray that you help us to stop measuring people and situations by our own "spiritual yardsticks". Instead, help us to apply love and grace to our every word, every deed, and every thought. Thank you today for not measuring us in fairness according to man's standards. Thank you for providing us grace regardless of how we measure up in man's eyes. Finally, help us to honor and glorify You in all things. In Jesus Name-Amen