Spiritual Targets: Growing in Christ

Remember the games where we tried to place a game piece on a target after we had been blindfolded and spun around a few times? We knew what we wanted to achieve, and we knew what the target looked like. We were also very willing to do our best, but the fact remains that we have difficulty hitting a target we cannot see. It's even more difficult to hit a target we do not have!

As Christians, each of us has the goal of becoming more Christ-like, as is stated in Philippians 3:12-14. "Not that I have already become perfect, but I press on in order that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus. Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet, but one thing I do, forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." We know that our ultimate goal is, but how do we get there? Do we have a plan of action toward spiritual growth?

As Zig Ziglar, a Christian, motivational speaker says, most people spend more time planning their vacations than they spend planning their career, and most people spend more time planning their wedding than they spend cultivating a successful marriage! How much time do we spend setting goals and taking plans of action in our Christian lives? Perhaps if we aren't growing much, it's because we have no specific, measurable goals.

Paul says in 1 Corinthians 9:24-26 that the Christian life compares to a race, and if we want to cross the finish line victoriously, we must do more than just put forth effort. We must "run in such a way, as not without aim."

God's Family Tree

Have you ever researched your family tree? Doing so can be interesting and educational as you discover the who, when, where, why and how of your own family history.

The nation of Israel was meticulous about record keeping and took great pride in roll calling. The book of Numbers is a detailed account of generations of Israelites. Their inheritance was so important that even if they lost it, it would eventually revert back to them.

What about my own spiritual family tree? I am a child of the King. My brothers and sisters span throughout time and are born all over the world. Yet, no one is a "distant" relation in either time or space; no matter whether someone came into the family back in 200 A.D. or just a moment ago. There are no grandchildren, nieces, or cousins.

Our inheritance is equal and total for each of us. Favoritism does not exist. No one is ever disowned.
My Father is all powerful and everything is His! What a heritage!

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you." I Peter 1:14

Sing a New Song!

"Sing for joy in the Lord, O you righteous ones;
Praise is becoming to the upright.
Give thanks to the Lord with the lyre;
Sing praises to Him with a harp of ten strings.
Sing to Him a new song;
Play skillfully with a shout of joy."
Psalm 33:1-3

Have you ever thought about writing your own Psalm of praise to the Lord? If we are ever guilty of merely mouthing the words to the songs in our worship service and singing without sincere awe and reverence in our hearts, then maybe we need to consider letting praise arise from our own words and "sing a new song"!

Praise the Lord
For it will bring joy to your heart to sing God's praises
God has given us the freedom to worship Him;
He desires to pour out His blessings upon us.
He comforts our hearts and heals our brokenness.
He is in control of everything and has provided for all our needs.
He is mighty; He is all powerful!
He has all wisdom and gives it to us when we ask.
Sing to the Lord and rejoice!
Raise up beautiful music to the heavens.
He makes the beauty of our world and blesses us with the richness of living.
He is not impressed with our intelligence or our talents. He doesn't sit in awe of our accomplishments. He longs to see our pride broken so that He can multiply our joy.
Praise the Lord, dear friends, praise God!

My Imagination: Angel Wings in Worship!

I have sometimes been accused of letting my imagination get the best of me, and I must admit that it has been true more than once! However, I believe that an imagination can be a healthy, creative tool in learning and that it can be an important factor of Christian growth.

Have you ever stood alone in the darkness of night and looked up to the stars, trying to capture the exhilaration the shepherds must have felt as a host of angels appeared to them and proclaimed glory to God when Jesus was born? Have you ever imagined what the guards must have felt as an angel appeared and rolled back the stone from Jesus' tomb? These are glorious moments in God's Word, and we can't fully appreciate them unless we use our imagination to re-create the situations and make ourselves a part of them.

During a certain few seconds of a worship service, my imagination takes over and becomes a wonderful part of my worship experience. As I hear Bible pages rustling when God's Word is about to be read, I can't help but think that it sounds like the settling of angel wings as God's kingdom prepares to worship and rejoice with us!

God has done so much for us and His works go beyond our dreams. Sometimes our imagination is an avenue for God to speak to us and make His Word more meaningful in our lives. As we read our Bibles and study God's messages, we can use our imagination to open our minds and hearts to what God would have us to know. Put yourself at the foot of the cross and see what God lays upon your heart.

Man's Plans and God's Purposes

"The plans of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord. All the ways of a man are clean in his own sight, but the Lord weighs the motives. Commit your works to the Lord, and your plans will be established. The Lord has made everything for its own purpose, even the wicked for the day of evil.... When a man's ways are pleasing to the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.... The mind of man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps." Prov. 16:1-4, 7, & 9.

What do these verses tell us about mans plans and God's purposes? First, we see that they differ. Isaiah 55:8 & 9 says, "My thoughts are not your thoughts and my ways are not your ways, declares the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than our ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." What might seem like an innocent, good idea to us can actually fall short of God's purpose. God also weighs our motives.

Verse 3 admonishes us to commit our works to the Lord so that our plans will be established. This assumes that we have considered our objectives and sought God's will concerning our goals and plans. It's difficult to hit a target we cannot see, but it's impossible to hit a target we do not have! In order to accomplish God's work, we must have goals, but they must be GOD's goals.

In Revelation, the letters to the churches commend them for their love, faith, perseverance, and reputation, but the Lord points out that they are not accomplishing His will. Are we going through the motions as we teach? worship? listen? serve? Do we have God-centered, measurable goals for our classes, groups, ministries, and lives?

What are we accomplishing? What is God accomplishing through us? What is God's purpose for me? for each of us?

Second Chances

What if God gave no second chances? What if our relationship with Him depended upon our ability to avoid displeasing and disappointing Him? What if He cast us aside once we made a bad decision or behaved in some way contrary to His expectations? Without God's grace, we have no hope!

What happens to the person who cannot reflect God's grace in his or her own relationship with others? The person who gives no second chances lives in direct opposition to God's will. In Matthew 18, Jesus illustrated how we are to be gracious to others, just as God is gracious toward us. The slave who had been given a second chance by his master was impudent in his response to someone who had wronged him, and he allowed no second chance. His lord confronted him: "Should you not also have had mercy on your fellow slave, even as I had mercy on you?" Jesus continued, "And his lord, moved with anger, handed him over to the torturers until he should repay all that was owed him. So shall My heavenly Father also do to you, if each of you does not forgive his brother from your heart."

What is the torture that besets the person who will give no second chance? Guilt, perhaps. For he or she knows the attitude is wrong. Defensiveness, because the guilt must be balanced with some kind of logic that justifies the sin. Hardness, maybe, because the inability to trust others creates an insecurity that must be protected. Isolation, probably. For no one is beyond the judgment of someone who gives no second chances.

Why does someone develop a "no second chance" attitude? A person might have been hurt by a loved one and had no way of restoring the relationship because of death or lack of cooperation. A person might fear his or her own inadequacies and be seeking affirmation by finding fault in others. A person might have felt rejected and be unable to give the grace to others because he or she has been denied it by someone else.

If God responded as does the person who give no second chances, the Bible would be full of holes. David would have no influence. Peter would have no ministry, and Israel would be long forgotten. If we refuse to give others second chances, we'll miss the blessing of people like James, John, Martha, and John Mark.

What are the results of an unforgiving spirit? Misery. The inability to be satisfied. Depression. Distance from God. But hope is available, because God IS gracious, and He give second chances even to those who do not. Many revivals have come about as the result of those who have decided to simply lay their attitudes at the foot of the cross.

Rummage Sale of the Heart

I decided to have a rummage sale one day, so I went into the attic of my heart to shuffle through so many items I had forgotten: broken dreams and broken promises that I had stored away in pain with hopes of mending them some day; antique habits that I had clung to simply because they had been in my life for a long time; dusty grudges that I had harbored in the dark attic corners of my heart, unwilling to give them up. The broken items were useless unless someone fixed them, but I thought that someone who liked to do that kind of thing might want them. I thought I would also get rid of the old habits if anyone would take them off my hands, but I knew I could easily keep them if they didn't go. The old dusty grudges would be like new if I cleaned them up a bit, but I hoped to get rid of them because I had never really liked them anyway.

I then went to clean out my heart's closets. In one I found forgotten commitments; I had made them long ago with good intentions, and someone might want them now. In another closet I found unused talents that were a little rusty, and I wondered whether they were of any worth. Here and there were unforgiven sins that amounted to quite a number that were cluttering my heart. I knew I needed to get rid of them.

I gathered everything together and organized them on tables in the sunlight of my heart's front yard, and I was amazed to see how ugly many things actually were, while others still had a little sparkle there in the light. I put up my sign down at the road, and soon a man named Jesus came by.

He looked my tables over, examining each item, then He picked up the broken pieces and mended them there before my eyes. He gave me a special solution called Grace that helped me renew my forgotten commitments, and He showed me how those rusty talents could still be used. Then He surprised me by paying a very high price for the things I was most ashamed to have displayed. Instead of carting off His purchases, He helped me bag up and get rid of the ones like my old grudges and habits. And then He left without taking anything with Him. I noticed my pile of sins on the grass. He had paid for them and then forgotten them.

"Hide they face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities. Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit withing me. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy Holy Spirit from me. Restore until me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free Spirit." Psalms 51:9-12

Praying with Confidence for One Another

God tells us many things about effective prayers. He encourages us to join together in a bond of prayer (Matt. 18:19-20; James 5:14-16) We must ask according to His will (I John 5:14-15). We must ask in Jesus' name (John 14:13-14). We must ask in faith (Matt. 21:22). We must ASK (Matt. 7:7; James 4:2)!

We can see many examples of what the Lord does in a church where believers bond together in prayer for the same thing, applying the principles mentioned above (Acts 2:42-47; 4:23-35; 6:1-8; 12:5-17). This is the type of unity that Jesus asked the Heavenly Father to give us in John 17. It is the same type of unity that Paul spoke of in 1 Corinthians 12 & 13.

We can pray for one another by name the same prayer that Paul prayed for the members of the church at Colossae. It is a prayer we know is in accordance with God's will for our lives. This is a prayer we can pray in faith. This is a prayer God will answer:

Lord, May _____ be filled with the knowledge of Your will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that he/she will walk in a manner worthy of You, to please You in all respects. May _____ bear fruit in every good work and may he/she increase in the knowledge of You. Lord, strengthen him/her with all power, according to Your glorious might, that _____ might attain steadfastness and patience. May _____ give thanks to You, our Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. (Col. 1:9-12)

Fervent Prayer

My prayer life was weak and feeble, it had become a dull routine.
My concern was only half-hearted, and therefore, the results were lean.
And then during a moment of good intention, I asked God to burden me
with the names of those around me with troubles that I couldn't see.
My eyes were slowly opened to needs that only God could meet;
my heart began to ache for others, and my prayer life became more complete.
I realized more of my own shortcomings, and my list of concerns grew longer.
I found more time to talk with my Lord, and I felt my faith grow stronger.
Prayers of praise and thanksgiving began to balance the prayers of requests,
and every time I called upon God, I felt that my heart had been blessed.
My concerns were no longer "burdens" -- they were opportunities to put a privilege to use --
The privilege of bringing a problem to God and seeing what joy He produced.
My Lord has taken my feeble prayer life and shown me that I have so much to learn.
I just pray that God will continue to strengthen me and deepen my concern.

"Is any among you afflicted? Let him pray. Is any merry? Let him sings psalms.
Is any sick among you? Let him call for the elders of the church and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayers of faith shall save the sick and the Lord shall raise him up and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. Confess your faults one to another and pray one for another that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." James 5:13-16

Growing

As children grow older, they search out ways to increase their maturity, often seeking to make their own mistakes or their own accomplishments. Parents cooperate by giving them more opportunities to make their own decisions, and often must restrain themselves from intervening when they sense a failure is coming. This is the way in which we all grow wiser, more confident and stronger. The same is often true in our Christian lives, as God smiles at us and watches us grow.

Today I know God smiled at me, and eventually I smiled at myself,
but it took me a while to see the humor and put my pride on a shelf.
I started my day with an earnest prayer and sincere desire to grow;
I realized so many shortcomings - so many things I wanted to know.
I asked the Lord to strengthen me, that I might be more as I should,
and I had faith that with God's help, grow indeed, I would!
Well, shortly after I arrived at work, things began to go wrong,
and the hopes I had of having a good day didn't last very long.
I ran up against some tough personalities - my temper, I admit was tried,
but I managed to keep a steady voice, although I was shaking inside.
It seemed that I needed to be in fifteen places all at the very same instant.
I only wanted a calm reprieve, but everything went against it.
I almost cried; I almost screamed; I almost threw up my hands in despair,
but eventually the work day was over, and I could forget about my cares.
At home I reflected on the events of the day and suddenly remembered my request.
Why had the day been so disappointing, when I had wanted to give it my best?
The reason was made quite clear to me, as I thought a little longer --
only through meeting with resistance is any muscle made stronger.
I had asked my Lord to give me strength, and I had met obstacles along the way.
I suppose these are the little ways in which we grow...
Yes, I know God smiled at me today!

"...but we glory in tribulations also; knowing that tribulations worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope." Romans 5:3 & 4

Amazed but Shouldn't Be

When I think of all the wonderful things that God has done in my life,
I must admit, I am amazed...
although I shouldn't be.
As I see how he meets my needs and protects me from daily strife,
I must admit I am amazed...
although I shouldn't be.
For this is my Lord, who created the stars and give life to each living thing,
who gives sight to the blind, hope to the helpless, and the wren his song to sing.
He has conquered evil, triumphed over death, and gives us life everlasting.
He promises strength, mercy, and grace, and forgiveness is there for the asking.
And yet, when even the simplest of prayers is answered by my loving Lord,
I must admit, I am amazed...
although I shouldn't be.
Or when I suddenly find a comforting answer there in His Holy Word,
I must admit I am amazed...
although I shouldn't be.
For what do I expect from an almighty God who holds the whole world in His hand?
How can I wonder at the answering of prayer, when all eternity evolves as He has planned?
How can I marvel at life's little joys or be in awe of His promises, unbroken,
when God, in His wisdom, created the world with just a simple word spoken?!
Still, I, in my limited comprehension of things, am left pondering each of God's gifts.
Yes, I admit, I'm amazed
Although I shouldn't be.
And though I may slowly gain understanding, bewildered eyes I uplift,
remaining amazed
when I shouldn't be.

The Bible tells of many situations where man is amazed at the works of God. His love for us, His grace, mercy, forgiveness, and His provision for all our needs are miracles that occur every day in each of our lives. Every answered prayer is an opportunity for wonder, and every second of wonder is worth an hour of praise! How can we be amazed at the answering of a prayer, when God is in control of ALL elements of life? Perhaps amazement reflects a lack of understanding, but still, isn't it wonderful! Take a moment and be amazed-- take an hour and praise Him!

"Praise Him for His mighty acts: praise Him according to His excellent greatness." Psalm 1 50:2

What I Need

Lord, help me see that others
have their problems, too;
help me to feel for my brothers
and lift them up to You.
God, help me understand
that I'm not the only one
who needs your gentle hand
and the promises of your Son--
that if I ask, it shall be given;
that if I request, I will receive;
that if I repent, I'll be forgiven,
if only I believe.
Lord, grant me a loving spirit.
Lord, make mine a forgiving heart.
Your will-- may I hear it.
Patience-- may I learn the art.
Wisdom-- might I seek it.
Your guidance-- might I trust.
The Truth, God, help me to speak it;
help me to be bold when I must.
And in my daily living,
may I grow to be more like Christ.
Might I learn to do more giving,
and with temptation not be enticed.
I guess, Lord, what I'm saying
is that I'm willing to sacrifice;
if You'll just listen as I'm praying,
I'm willing to pay the price.
Bend me, God, and break me;
mend me, Father, I ask.
Mold me, Lord, and make me
fit to carry out the task.
Whatever you'd have me do,
wherever You might lead,
might I live my life for You.
Master, show me what I need.

In Christ's name, Amen.

"Likewise, the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities; for we know not what we should pray for as we ought; but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered." Romans 8:26

Prayer

What is recorded in the Bible about the kings and prophets of Israel and Judah appears not only as testimonies of what happened, but as testimonials of what CAN happen through prayer!

In the example of Elisha and his servant under the Aram army's siege in 2 Kings 6:8-23, when Elisha's servant saw they were surrounded by the Aram King's army, he was despaired. However, Elisha prayed, "O Lord, I pray, open his eyes that he may see," and indeed, then the strength of God's army was revealed. Next, Elisha prayed that the enemy would be blinded and confused, and through God's answer to this prayer the enemy was overcome.

In 2 Kings 18 & 19, we learn about the threat of the Assyrians upon King Hezekiah of Judah, how they mocked and scorned the power of the Lord and demanded the surrender of His people. Hezekiah prayed that God would intervene, "that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that thou alone, O Lord, art God." Hezekiah had led his people into revival, and God answered his request by again disheartening the enemy, this time by merely exposing them to rumor!

Is the church in America scorned and despaired? Do our enemies taunt us with examples of our defeat? When we look at the mockers in this world, are we overcome by their apparent strength? Elisha said, "Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them." 2 Kings 6:16

Pray that the eyes of Christians will be opened to God's power and that the enemy will be blinded and confused. We must know that the Lord is greater than any prayer concern!

Being Humble

T.W. Hunt (author of PrayerLife) gives several reasons for the need of humility in our lives: it is commanded; it is wise; it is Jesus example; it is the nature of the Trinity.

When we recognize the need for it, we concern ourselves with how to have the characteristics of humility. T. W. Hunt gives these ideas: seek it; let God do it; recognize it as a fruit of the Spirit; become like a child; esteem others more than self; think of self with sober judgment; fast; get in the presence of God.

Of all the points that he shares, the most significant concerned magnifying the Lord. We certainly can't make God bigger -- we cant even begin to comprehend His greatness! The key to magnifying the Lord is making ourselves smaller or understanding our insignificance in comparison to His greatness. John said, "He must increase, but I must decrease."

In this society that focuses on our personal rights and self promotion, humility is a strange pursuit. It seems to indicate weakness and worthlessness in the world's view. However, in Philippians 2:3-8 Paul says, "Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you regard one another as more important than himself; do not merely look out of your own personal interest, but also for the interest of others. Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bondservant, and being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross."

Jesus contrasted the prayer of the Pharisee with the prayer of a tax-gatherer. He said, "for everyone who exalts himself shall be humbled, but he who humbles himself shall be exalted." Luke 18:14b

Needing to be in need

Have you ever been in need? Perhaps you needed a helping hand to do a chore, or a word of instruction or wisdom from someone with experience, or a listening ear from someone who understands. Maybe you've experienced a material or financial need at some time in your life. At one time or another, we all experience the need for help from another person, but most of us find it much easier to offer help than to ask for it. Yet, being in need is a crucial part of our growth in our spiritual lives.

When Jesus washed the feet of the disciples, He was teaching them an important lesson in servanthood. The washing was not just a matter of dirty feet, but more a matter of prideful hearts. In order to minister with humility and sensitivity, we must understand what it means to be served... what it feels like to be in need.

Sometimes when we give or help, we become full of more than joy. We become proud or boastful or in awe of our own goodness! The disciples were a bit reluctant to have Jesus wash their feet, because they suddenly became aware of their own unworthiness. They were embarrassed. Uncomfortable. Humbled. They understood what it meant to be ministered to by the Lord.

As we give and help and minister and serve, let us examine our hearts and our attitudes. Are we meeting the needs of others or our own? Are we being sensitive to their feelings? Can we use the opportunity to meet a spiritual need as well? Are we serving as Jesus served?

"For I gave you an example, that you also should do as I did to you." John 13:15

To Him

To submit
to allow myself to be molded
without resisting
without directing
without complaining
To obey
to be used for a purpose
without doubting
without worrying
without asking why
To trust
to find peace in knowing
without fearing
without stopping
without hesitating

"Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross." Phil. 2:5-8

Sing Unto Him

I hear songs on the radio, songs of loneliness, songs of woe,
songs of someone's lost, imperfect love;
Songs about the way they say to get high,
songs about the things that make people cry,
songs about what to do when push comes to shove.
I hear the countdown of favorite songs,
but it seems to me that the list is all wrong.
There doesn't seem to be any answers given.
It's more like a list of many complaints--
the "can'ts," the "won'ts," the the "didn'ts" and the "aints,"
all the sour notes of what some people call "livin'."
Well, I got out some paper, and I got out a pen,
and I made out a list of my Top Ten,
but I couldn't put them in order or list them there by rank,
For they each have a special place in my heart
at one time or other they've been an important part
of comforting me on Jordan's stormy banks.
They've each been sung in my joyful noise
(I'm short on talent, but blessed with many joys!)
Allowing me in my small way to give glory to God,
to carry me along the path I've trod.
They've all been there throughout the years,
to lift me up, to calm my fears.
I'm so thankful for each hymn's sweet notes.
I'm so thankful for the ones who wrote
the hymns that will always mean so much to me.
I'm thankful for the music played
and the difference that each note has made.
Without them how quiet so many hearts would be!

"Sing unto Him, sing psalms unto Him; talk ye of all His wonderous works. Glory ye in His holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the Lord." Psalm 105:2 & 3

The Road Ahead

With every step that I take forward

I find fifteen more to go,
and when I'm confident in the goal I'm moving toward,
I discover so much more I need to know.
But I can't help getting excited
about the lengthy road I see;
I'm so much more than just delighted,
because God mapped it out just for me.
And even though distant mountains
are my horizon line,
the way passes by flowing fountains
and joys like dandelions.
The hills are steep and the pathway cluttered
with illusions that get in my way,
but God knows of each prayer I've uttered;
He hears me when I pray.
And I know He answers, and I feel Him guide me
as long as I'm staying on this path,
and when I've strayed, He has been beside me--
I have known God's wrath!
I've been guilty of looking back,
and at times I've stumbled and fallen,
but the Lord returns me to the right track
when on His name I'm calling.
You see, God knows my destination;
He knows the curves before me.
He understands my every frustration--
He promises never to ignore me.
I look forward to the travel--
I have no reason to dread,
For God is my companion
as I walk the road ahead.

Decisions

Decisions.
Big ones.
Small ones.
Might-change-it-all ones.
Decisions that take a little while.
Future.
Present.
Those that aren't so pleasant.
And those that bring about a smile.
Yes ones.
No ones.
Don't-really-know ones.
Decisions that are easy to make.
Think a lot.
Pray a lot.
What does the Bible say? A lot!
Decisions that are worth the time you take.

"Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision: for the day of the Lord is near in the valley of decision." Joel 3:14

We each make decisions every day and usually don't think much about them. However, sometimes even the smallest of decisions can change a large part of our lives, and we need to be aware of possible consequences. Our Lord is always eager to guide us and wants us to call on Him when making any decision.

When major decisions arise in our lives we often worry and wonder ourselves into a tizzy. Sometimes the unknown can scare us badly and cause decision-making to be a traumatic process. As Christians, we have an advantage that we should utilize BEFORE the situation gets out of hand! If we're seeking advice, who can be a better adviser than the One who holds everyone's future? God loves us and wants our lives to be filled with joy.

"And the Lord shall guide thee continually and satisfy thy soul in drought and make fat thy bones, and thou shalt be like a watered garden and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not." Isaiah 58:11.

What Should We Be and Do?

"Is this not the fast which I choose, to loosen the bonds of wickedness, to undo the bands of the yoke, and to let the oppressed go free, and break every yoke?" Isaiah 58:6

This chapter in Isaiah has meant a lot to me for a long time. To me, the verses answer the question that every Christian might ask himself or herself today: Lord, what should I be and do?

The beginning of the chapter paints a picture of God's responding to His people who are confused about their condition. The messenger is told to "cry loudly" and "not hold back." It is a bold message, spoken passionately to people who are equally both sincere and fruitless. They seek God "day by day" and delight to know His ways. "They delight in the nearness of God." And yet they ask why they fast and God doesn't see, and they humble themselves and God doesn't notice. They ask what's wrong.

The Lord's response is extensive, and verse six, above, is a part of it.

I find myself asking what are the bonds, bands, yoke, and oppression of people around us today. Is it poverty? Some form of addiction? Is it depression? Guilt? Rejection? Illiteracy? Loneliness? What are we to loosen, free, and break?

The people God spoke to were faithful in going through the motions of worship, and they were sincere in their desire to please God, but these things had not led them into the ministry God desired for them. It is a common problem found throughout the family of God's people. James, too, tells us that "Faith, if it has no works, is dead." As we begin this new year, please join me in asking, "Lord, what would you have me be and do? He wants us to love Him, and THAT kind of love relationship leads to faith in action!

When the Lord says, "Come"

What do you do when the Lord says, "Come," and you don't know in what direction to go?
You hold tight to his hand and have faith that the Lord will undoubtedly be sure to let you know.
You believe in His Word; you believe in His promises. You believe in the strength that He gives,
finding peace in His assurance, joy in His love, and victory in knowing that Christ lives.
When the Lord says, "Come," you don't ask "Where?" before knowing in your heart "I will go."
Be it two steps to the right or a thousand miles ahead, it's the most rewarding journey you'll ever know.
When the Lord says, "Come," it's because He has a plan, the only plan that can bring you ultimate joy,
And to say, "No, I can't," or to make up an excuse is a sure way to eventually destroy
clear communication and solid foundations on which your relationship with your Heavenly Father is built.
Instead, you'll be weighted with fear and disappointment and your heart will be filled with guilt.
When the Lord says, "Come," be like Andrew and drop your nets, be like James and John and leave your other plans behind.
Don't ask "Why?" and don't ask "How far?" Just simply and quickly make up your mind
that you want to do His will, wherever He may lead, whatever He might require once you reach your destination.
Be sure to be sincere -- don't give in to any fears,
don't take time to develop any hesitation.
God will see to your needs and bless your heart, indeed,
if you'll follow Him upon His first request.
When the Lord says, "Come," answer with a nod and God will begin to better your very best!
When the Lord says, "Come," don't run and hide like Jonah did when the Lord called him.
Because you won't have peace, and you won't have joy, and you won't find a fish that you can out-swim!

Stand as an Example

Do we stand in life before others,
representing what Christ stood for on earth?
Can others learn from us about Christ's life:
the miracle of His birth;
His teachings; His loving; His way of forgiving;
His death; His resurrection?
Do we seek to learn more about His Word?
Do we strive to grow toward perfection?
Are we near, to be a good counselor?
Are we near, to be a good friend?
Do we stand firm in our convictions,
faithful to the end?
Do others see in us an example
of what God would have us to be?
In each of our lives have been those we looked up to;
in them, what did we see?
Don't we pattern ourselves after those we admire?
Don't we have the strong leaders we follow?
And mixed with the joy of victory over death
is a personal sadness, a sorrow,
as a leader meet his Maker,
as a follower of Christ leaves to claim his reward,
as we lose a strong Christian pillar,
as person to whom so many looked toward.
We must ask ourselves what we've learned.
What testimony do we have to offer?
Are we living a life that stands strong, faithful, and true?
What example do we proffer?
For someone is looking to each of us
to be the example we've known.
Are our lives reflections of what we've been taught--
reflections of the example we've been shown?

"For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you." John 13:15

Toward the Son

As I was leaving work one day, I noticed that all the clover leaves in the grass were tilted up toward the setting sun. Upon approaching, I could see the deep green shadows underneath each tilted clover head, but as I glanced back at them, I could see a warmer, richer green as the top sides were bathed in the sunlight. The next morning I made a point to take notice of them again, and sure enough, all the little clover heads had turned their faces toward the rising sun in the east.

The laws of nature are so simple, and yet I am forever amazed at how God's creations go about doing what come naturally and is best for them. As I looked upon the bed of clover, each leaf turned expectantly toward the sun, I thought about God's family and how natural it should be for us to turn our faces toward the Son. Like the clover, we should look to the ultimate source of warmth in our lives, knowing that our needs will be supplied and that we will grow accordingly.

David expresses the same conviction in Psalm 84: "Blessed is the man whose strength is in Thee; in whose heart are the ways of them.... Behold, O God our shield, and look upon the face of thine anointed... For the Lord God is a sun and shield: the Lord will give grace and glory: no good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly. O Lord of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in Thee." (Verses 5, 9, 11, and 12)

Are we forever looking to God for our strength? Do we depend upon Him daily to guide us and nourish us that we might grow in His ways? Let us look to the lowly clover to see how we should trust in the Lord.

Peace or Stagnation?

How can we discern a peaceful life from a stagnant one?

Throughout the Bible, God tells us that true peace is a desirable state of heart and mind that can only be found in knowing Him. (Philippians 4:7, Romans 5:1,Ephesians 2: 14). The dictionary defines peace as "a state of tranquility or quiet.... freedom from disquieting or oppressive emotions," and John 14:27 tells us, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your heart be troubled and do not be afraid." Peace is a wonderful, healthy asset in life. It is always in company with other positive attributes also:

• Romans 8:6 "The mind of sinful men is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace.
• Romans 14:17 "For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit."
• Galatians 5:22 "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control."

Stagnation means being inactive or motionless. A stagnant body of water is quiet and tranquil, but its also without a current or flow; it is not troubled. It is without disruption. It is also without life.

Too often we mistake stagnation for peace. We are inclined to be satisfied with a life that is motionless, as long as it is quiet and tranquil. Instead we should have "peace like a river," a life that is in a constant state of forward motion. Flowing. Useful. Moving toward a greater source.

"If only you had paid attention to my commands, your peace would have been like a river, your righteousness like the waves of the sea." Isaiah 48:18.

Filled to the Brim

Jesus' first miracle at the wedding feast is a beautiful example of the changes God makes.

"Now there were six stone waterpots set there for the Jewish custom of purification, containing twenty or thirty gallons each. Jesus said unto them, 'Draw some out now and take it to the headwaiter.' And they took it to him. And when the headwaiter tasted the water which had now become wine, and did not know where it came from (but the servants who had drawn the water knew), the headwaiter called the bridegroom and said to him, 'Every man serves the good wine first, and when men have drunk freely, then that which is poorer; you have kept the good wine until now." John 2:6-10

Before Christ used the waterpots to meet needs and display his power, He instructed that they be filled to the brim. It's probably also significant that the waterpots were for purification. They already held 20 to 30 gallons each, but for Christ's purposes they needed to be full. How does this reflect the way God works in our lives as well?

If we are Christians, we have partaken of the living water, and indeed, the living water... the Holy Spirit... is within us. However, God's Word tells us that we, too, should be filled in order for God to use us as He wills. Ephesians 5:18 tells us, "And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit."

Why did Paul contrast getting drunk on wine against being filled with the Spirit? Perhaps because in both situations or conditions something else besides ourselves is in control of our behavior. Both conditions can produce a boldness. In every instance that someone in the Bible was "filled with the Spirit," they were speaking out for God and were bold in their efforts.

Are we wondering why God isn't using us in a might way to exhibit His glory and power? Perhaps we need to ask to be filled! Are we clean? Are we almost empty? What a joy to present ourselves to God as waterpots to be filled and transformed and used to meet a need for God's glory!

Mother's Knees

When I was a young mom, a friend once asked me if I had experienced the symptoms of "mother's knees" yet. She laughed and explained to me that "mother's knees" were dry, red, sore knees, resulting from kneeling over the bathtub every night to bathe children! I began to think of all the kneeling that a mother does for her children throughout the years, and I came up with quite a list. Among the bathing, trying shoes, picking up toys, and other daily tasks of a Christian mother, is praying for her children. I've heard many mothers speak of the time they've spent on their knees in prayer for their children, and it seems that the less time is spent attending to their needs, the more time is spent in prayer for children as they grow. Now that our children are pretty much grown, I'm convinced of it!

I know that many mothers spend more time in prayer for their children who are teenagers and are becoming more independent. I also know that "mother's knees" is a condition that continues even after the children leave home and are no longer under their mother's care. I once knew a great-grandmother who bought a new mattress and two well worn spots were discovered on the edge of her old one when family members replaced it. The spots were worn out by her elbows, she explained, as she knelt by her bed each night to pray for her children, who were then grandparents!

For years now, I have participated with a group of friends who take turns offering a daily prayer via email for our children. When the recent fatal shooting took place in a Knoxville high school, a few of my friends' children were directly affected by the trauma. One mother remarked that our daily prayers meant so much in the midst of that event, knowing that other moms were praying specifically for her kids.

We never know who is praying for us, or what our lives would be like if others were not praying for us. Kneeling in prayer is not the sole responsibility of mothers for their children. I've heard of neighbors who pray for the teenagers living nearby as they hear the car leave in the evenings, and how they thank God for their safe return when they come home. Having Christian parents who have prayed for us is something wonderful to be thankful for, and we should take time to return thanks for them and others who have prayed for us. We should become aware of the rewards of "mother's knees" and consider the amount of time that we spend praying for our children and others.

Pretty Feet

Do you have pretty feet?

That's a strange question to be asking! I never seriously considered the beauty of anyone's feet and certainly never thought God did either, until I paid attention to Romans 10:15... "...How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news."

We've all been in situations where we were so appreciative of someone or something that we exclaimed, "That's a beautiful sight!" Perhaps it was the first glimpse of home after a long and tiring trip, or maybe it was seeing someone bringing out an iced drink when we were hot and thirsty. Perhaps it was the appearance of someone returning home when he's been late and we were worried. My grandmother would have exclaimed, "Now, there's a sight for sore eyes!" Whatever the circumstances, the beauty we saw was a direct result of the need we felt.

The verses preceding the statement about beautiful feet are these,"How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, How beautiful are the feet..."

Our world desperately needs to hear the good news of Jesus Christ, and each of us has been commissioned by God to go and tell others. Folks within our community are weary, thirsty, and tired, and may are anxious for the beautiful sight of someone bringing good news of God's Word. They won't know peace unless they know God; they won't know God unless they hear the Word. They won't hear the Word unless we share it with them.

Are our feet beautiful in God's eyes?

A Mighty Wind

In September of 1990, I saw the effects of a mighty wind as it came through my community, and I believe we were all in awe of its power. In just a few moments, huge trees were uprooted or broken like sticks, cars were moved, roofs were displaced, and homes were damaged. A we surveyed the results, we asked ourselves, "How can something we can't even see be so powerful?"

In God's word, the Holy Spirit is often represented as a mighty wind. Acts 2:2-4 says, "And when the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a noise like a violent rushing wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. And there appeared to them tongues as of fire distributing themselves, and they rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak other tongues, as the Spirit was giving them utterance."

When we think of what the Holy Spirit can do in our lives, we easily see the comparison. Like the mighty wind snapped the trees, the Holy Spirit can break and uproot stubborn habits and attitudes in our lives that have been growing there so long and seem so invincible. Like the cars that were tossed about, the Holy Spirit can lift even the heaviest of burdens or move obstacles that distract us from doing God's will. Like the roofs that were peeled back, exposing the beams and items beneath them, the Holy Spirit can bring rushing winds through our hearts and reveal the foundations and contents of our beings.

Although they have changed their instructions in preparing for the mighty winds of a twister, the experts once told us to open the windows and lesson the resistence. Perhaps we should open the windows of our hearts that the Holy Spirit might do a mighty work in our lives!