Journey Through the Psalms - 4:4

FaithWalkDaily January 18,2009

Psalms 4:4 Don't sin by letting anger gain control over you.Think about it overnight and remain silent.

Anger is a natural, necessary human emotion, a true gift from God. It can be a great motivator. If we had no anger, we would not act on our indignation toward abortion, slavery, abuse, and every kind of crime. Why, we probably wouldn't have any legal system for no one would care what others did. Anger is good, when controlled.

Where we run into problems is when we blow the little things out of proportion and storm around for days in our self-righteousness shutting out loved ones or friends because we refuse to let go of petty differences. That is sinful anger. When I bump my head and slam the cupboard door out of anger, that is sinful anger. When I feel outraged that "no one can ever put anything in the dishwasher correctly but me!" That is sinful anger. When my husband says "just a few more minutes," when watching sports late at night when I'm ready to go to sleep and I get angry with him rather than gently reasoning with him, that's sinful anger.

Those are just minor examples of things that tick us off which are really nonsense when you think about it. They're hardly earth moving. I'm sure you have your own list of things that make you angry which are a waste of breath and energy.

Steve and I make it a rule to kiss and make up before going to sleep every night. We refuse to go to bed angry. It's been one of the best traditions of our marriage.

Don't sin by letting anger gain control over you.Think about it overnight and remain silent. Sometimes whatever irritated us the night seems ridiculous the next day. Let it go.

Lord thank You for this wise instruction. Help us to see when is the right time to be angry and when to let go of petty complaints. Be with us today as we worship You and rest in Your love. In Jesus name we pray, amen.

Journey Through the Psalms - 4:3

FaithWalkDaily January 17, 2009

Psalms 4:3 Know that the LORD has set apart the godly for himself; the LORD will hear when I call to him.

First I have to understand what it means to be godly. God gave Moses ten commandments to share with his people. They were simple really, and encompassed all common sense that tells us how to get along on planet earth and live in peace. The first three tell us to worship only YHWH, not to make any kind of idols and not to use His name in vain. Then he tells us to set aside a day of rest and worship. He tells us to respect our parents, not to murder, cheat, steal, lie or envy. They're all pretty basic. Don't commit adultery means don't commit adultery. Does it really need further explanation? Rest on the Sabbath means rest on the Sabbath.

People began to question those ten commandments and the next thing you know, there's a book of rules from here to the moon that the people were expected to adhere to or suffer the consequences. Punishment for disobedience ranged from being shunned for a few days to being stoned to death. It got so convoluted that people began to worship their actions, not the one they acted for. In other words, they were walking around looking godly but having no relationship with God.

When Jesus lived and walked among us, he simplified things even further. He said, love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength and love your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:37-39, Mark 12:30,31.) Common sense tells us this encompasses all the commandments. To honor and glorify God is as simple as treating one another with respect. Take care of God's creation.

Now that we have a clear understanding of what it means to be godly, let's look at what it means to be set apart for God. This analogy my seem a little far fetched but hang with me for a minute. We have a watering can to water our plants. We use dishes to serve our meals. We have clothes to keep us warm. These things have specific purposes for our use. In the same way, we are vessels filled with the Holy Spirit to carry out the purposes of God. We are all unique and each serves a specific need.

When I open myself to the direction of the Holy Spirit, the Lord will hear when I call Him. When my purpose is in alignment with God's plans, I will know how to pray. It's not about gong to Him to beg for what I want, it's about going to Him to offer myself for His purposes. He hears and fills me with what I need to accomplish whatever He intends for me. True joy results from obedience. He will hear when we call, for we are connected through submission to His will.

Know that the LORD has set apart the godly for himself; the LORD will hear when I call to him.

Heavenly Father, I am Yours, set apart to do Your will. I humbly bow before Your throne of grace, seeking direction. Thank You for Jesus and the Holy Spirit, to teach me Your ways and give me guidance. Thank You for all that I have and for all that I lack for You have provided exactly what I need for Your purposes. Forgive me for falling short and holding back. Forgive me for not taking the time to meditate on Your word when I need to. Hear me now Father as I seek Your will and Your way in my life. I open myself to the Holy Spirit to pour into me all that You would have me pour out to the world to bring the lost into the light of Christ for Your glory. In Jesus name, amen.

Journey Through the Psalms - 4:1,2

FaithWalk Daily January 16, 2009

Psalm 4:1-2 Answer me when I call to you, O my righteous God. Give me relief from my distress; be merciful to me and hear my prayer.

How long, O men, will you turn my glory into shame? How long will you love delusions and seek false gods?

David teaches us that it is right to cry out to God in our hour of need. He reflects the heart of God that grieves for His people who foolishly put their hope in idols, physical icons, rather than the One who saved them again and again.

While we cry out for our nation, praying for our new leaders in Washington and asking God to bless our nation again, we need to face the mirror.

What are our idols? Where do we put our hope? Do you hope in investments? A television faith healer? The guy who made millions who invites you to seek the financial prosperity you long for? Is it a lottery ticket? Sports? Your children? Sin?

Whatever you put first in your life, even your own spouse, becomes an idol. If God is not first in our lives, He cannot bless us. Like Abraham when he laid his son Isaac on the altar, we must be willing to let go of that which is most precious to us to gain that which God wants to bless us with.
Today, let's take a few moments to look in the mirror and do some honest soul searching. Let's get to the source of our impediment and root it out to make room for what God has in store.

Heavenly Father, You are holy and perfect, there is none like You. There is no other. We lay before the foot of the cross these idols we have bowed down to. May the blood of our Savior rain down from heaven and wash them away, cleansing and renewing us. Forgive us our foolishness. We offer ourselves, a living sacrifice, willing vessels to be filled with the purposes of the Holy Spirit in total obedience. In the name of Jesus we pray, amen.

Journey Through the Psalms - 3:7,8

FaithWalkDaily January 15, 2009

Psalms 3:7-8 Arise, O LORD! Deliver me, O my God! Strike all my enemies on the jaw; break the teeth of the wicked. From the LORD comes deliverance. May your blessing be on your people.

As I read these verses a few times this morning, savoring them, the phrase that impressed me was David's prayer for blessing.

I've become starkly aware over the past ten years of the moral decline of our country and what seems to be the withdrawal of God's blessings from this nation. During the pre-election frenzy, my constant and fervent prayer was that our nation would fall to its knees, repent and turn back to God so that His blessings would once again flow on us.

Some think God didn't answer our prayers for the right man in the white house. I don't agree. I know there were a lot of Christians praying for the outcome of this election. Just because we may not see Obama as necessarily a Bible believing Christian, he calls himself a Christian. Does he stand firm for all that conservative Christians believe? No, certainly not, especially on the issues of abortion and stem cell research.

However, that doesn't mean he can't be convinced to look at what God says about the sanctity of life. Either way, we can't put our hopes in one man. If we express ourselves to the new administration (and I pray the Holy Spirit will prompt you to do so,) and we do what's right in our own communities, we have to trust the outcome to God, remembering that He is in control, no matter what it looks like from our puny perspectives.

If we are faithful, we must voice our opinions; pray for our elected officials in Washington; pray for our local leaders of state, city and community. To do anything less is to take their side. If there's one thing we know about democrats, those in the past have looked to the wind to determine their direction. They listen to the cries of the people. That's what bleeding hearts do best. Cry loud, cry hard and cry often on behalf of the defenseless. If you don't, don't complain about the withholding of God's blessings on America.

First do all you can. Then let go and trust God. From the Lord comes deliverance.

Arise, O LORD! Deliver me, O my God! Strike all my enemies on the jaw; break the teeth of the wicked. From the LORD comes deliverance. May your blessing be on your people. In Jesus' name we pray, amen.

Journey Through the Psalms - 3:5,6

FaithWalkDaily January 14, 2009

Psalms 3:5-6 I lay down and slept. I woke up in safety, for the LORD was watching over me. I am not afraid of ten thousand enemies who surround me on every side.

One might feel sorry for David. Look at all the enemies he faced in his kingdom. You'd be afraid to step out your front door. Sure glad I don't have that many enemies...

Or do I? Let's consider that. Are you aware that there is a constant flurry of spiritual activity going on around you at any given moment? Just because we don't see something doesn't mean it's not there. Take for instance gravity: can't see it, but it's real. Air: can't see it, but we you sure can't live without it. The moon: it may not be in the visible portion of your sky at the moment, but it's out there affecting tides and behavior. God: can't see Him but He's omnipresent; the evidence is everywhere.

Angels and demons surround us. Can you get your mind around that? Let's see what God's word says about it.

• Genesis 28:12 Jacob sees angels in a dream.
• Deuteronomy 42:43 Moses writes of all the angels of God.
• Nehemiah 9:6 Nehemiah writes of angels of God.
• Job 1 and 2 addresses angels and Satan meeting with God. All through the book Job mentions angels many times.
• David writes of angels in Psalms 29.
• Psalms 78:25 Asaph refers to the manna God provided the Israelites as the "food of angels."
• Psalms 78:49 refers to destroying angels.
• Ethan writes of angels in Psalms 89:5.
• Psalms 91:10 says angels will protect you.
• Psalms 103:20 says there are armies of angels who serve God and do His will.
• Isaiah 24:21 says God will punish the fallen angels in heaven and proud rulers of earth.
• Daniel speaks of a hundred million angels at the throne of God in Daniel 7:10.
• Matthew 4 tells of how Jesus Himself was tempted by the devil quoting Scripture, promising God's angels to protect Him. Jesus didn't take the bait and angels ministered to Him in that desolate place. Throughout the entire New Testament there are numerous references to angels and demons.
• Deuteronomy 32:17 tells of people who worshipped demons
• Psalms 106:37 tells of those who sacrificed their children to demons

One thing is clear in all the references to angels and demons - they exist in an unseen realm. If there are hundreds of millions of angels, and a third of them chose to follow Lucifer, there are millions, probably hundreds of millions of Satan's minions, fallen angels, as well. So where are they? What are they doing?

They're harassing those who love the Lord. Just as Job was harassed and tested, so are each of us. It's my belief that we are tested according to who we are and what God's plans are for us. I am tested physically by the constraints of a damaged body. My husband is tested by financial woes. Perhaps you're tested by lust or dishonesty or anger at those who have hurt you.

Whatever it is, God allows those wicked little losers to attach themselves to us for His purposes. They wage war, perhaps even bet on the outcome. The weak will fall away. Those who love the Lord will seek His strength to persevere.

Sleep in peace. Whatever we're going through, the LORD is watching over us. We will wake in safety, whether in our own beds or in the arms of Jesus. We need not fear the enemies surrounding us who seek to steal our souls.

Heavenly Father, what a blessed revelation, what a comfort to know, You are always watching over us. No matter what demons I face today, the LORD is my strength, my shield, and my deliverer. I will not be afraid, I will sleep in peace. We offer up all that we are, living sacrifices, willing to serve according to Your plans, knowing though we are besieged by the enemy, we are protected by Your heavenly angels. Guide us through each dark valley and rejoice with us on the mountaintops! In Jesus' name we pray, amen.

Journey Through the Psalms - 3:1-4

FaithWalkDaily January 13, 2009

Psalm 3:1-4 O LORD, I have so many enemies; so many are against me. So many are saying, "God will never rescue him!"

But you, O LORD, are a shield around me, my glory, and the one who lifts my head high. I cried out to the LORD, and he answered me from his holy mountain.

I don't know about you, but I feel like David sometimes. Here he is hiding from his own flesh and blood, his son Absalom, who wants him dead.

I don't have any family members who want me dead, thank God. But sometimes the oppression of the world makes me feel like running to the Amish. I just want to get away from the filth of the world and hide my head in the sand, pretending it doesn't exist.

The fact is, Jesus admonished us to live in the world but not of the world. To be salt and light. To be wise as serpents and gentle as lambs. We cannot spread the message hiding in a cave.

It is interesting that Jesus is described as both Lamb of God (John 1:36, 1 Peter 1:19) and Lion of Judah (Revelations 5:5.) He is at once obedient and fierce, gentle, but strong. He shows us how to live in the world according to His ways: Submit to our Master and be empowered in His strength to stand against all enemies. For if God is for us, who can stand against? (Romans 8:31)

Increasingly, people are slipping away from faith and it becomes more difficult with each passing day to take a stand. Statistics tell us the great majority of people call themselves Christians. Yet of those, how many actually worship God daily? Read Scripture regularly? Pray for our leaders? Share the Gospel? Before I was a Christian I called myself a Christian. The numbers would drop significantly if pollsters asked the question, "are you a Bible believing, God-fearing, church attending, gospel spreading Christian?" Where do you stand?

Shall we run and hide or seek refuge in the One who has all power and wisdom?

O Lion of Judah, merciful Lamb! You are God alone, majestic and marvelous. Holy Spirit infuse us with an avid desire to seek, obey and carry out Your plans. We claim the love and power of Jesus to stand firm in these dark days; to be salt and light, wise and gentle and to do all we do for your glory. In Jesus' name we pray, amen.

Journey Through the Psalms - 2:10-12

FaithWalkDaily January 12, 2009

Psalms 2:10-12 Now then, you kings, act wisely! Be warned, you rulers of the earth! Serve the LORD with reverent fear, and rejoice with trembling. Submit to God's royal son, or he will become angry, and you will be destroyed in the midst of your pursuits — for his anger can flare up in an instant. But what joy for all who find protection in him!

Whether prophetic in nature, speaking of the King of Kings, or simply a statement of the times, a warning to those who would come against King David, these verses speak to me today about authority and obedience.

Man is by nature a rebel. We proved that in Eden long ago. Perhaps I should rephrase that - woman is a rebel, man is easily swayed by her beguiling ways. We'll not get into that one for the moment. My point is, we want to do things our own way, curious and bold as cats.

Yet I've learned from experience, if I submit to the will of God, surrender my desires, and love Him with all my heart, mind, strength and soul, that leads to obedience which leads to joy. That's what I've been experiencing in my life since this year began. I made a conscious decision to stop fighting everything in my life, accept it for what it is, and trust in God completely as I pay attention to the Holy Spirit and obey.

We can all make that choice on a daily basis. Although writing comes easily to me and I'm never at a loss for words, there are many things I could and would be doing if I weren't sitting here tapping away at the keyboard on my laptop. It takes discipline to sit down every day, open God's word, read, pray and consider what He would teach me. I've had many days of "positive procrastination" - doing other things that are good to do but not what I should be doing at any given moment. It takes effort to obey what the Holy Spirit prompts.

Right now it's snowing outside and absolutely gorgeous. I can't think of too many things that lift my spirits more than new fallen, pure, fluffy white snow. I wanted to go photograph geese and ducks on a pond 10 miles away this morning. But I've committed to the Lord to see this through, one day at a time for my spiritual growth and anyone who joins me.

We must obey God first and foremost. (James 1, Hebrews 12, Romans 6, Matthew 5, ) We're told also to obey the laws of the land, respecting authority on earth (Mark 12, 1 Peter 2.)

Serve the LORD with reverent fear, and rejoice with trembling. But what joy for all who find protection in him!

O Lord, God Most High, we tremble in awe considering Your great power, yet melt in our hearts pondering Your great mercy. We submit to You today and each new day, to glorify You in all we do, and for our great joy. Thank You Abba, Father, that You have a perfect plan, a plan for our well-being, one that promises hope and a future. In Jesus' name we pray in grace, amen.

Journey Through the Psalms - 2:7-9

FaithWalkDaily January 11, 2009

Ask.

Psalms 2:7-9 The king proclaims the LORD's decree: "The LORD said to me, 'You are my son. Today I have become your Father. Only ask, and I will give you the nations as your inheritance, the ends of the earth as your possession. You will break them with an iron rod and smash them like clay pots.'"

The great Scripture commentaries record that these are prophetic verses, referring to the rule of Jesus the Christ. Clearly there is strong indication that these are the words of David to whom God promised abundant blessings.

The obvious is that our strength is in Christ; He rules; in the end He will take down the devil with little effort. But that's not what I want to focus on today.

Only ask...

It is important to break Scripture down word by word when studying, rather than gulping down chapters at a time. If we read the whole of this Psalm without considering the nuances contained in words and phrases, we would miss much. This is, in my estimation, one of the problems with Christians who live on milk and never get into the meat. Of course another problem is taking a phrase or sentence out of context. But we're not going to do that. We're looking at the whole Psalm together and we're going to cull some marvelous morsels of wisdom and God's promises along the way. Those two words are powerful. Only ask.

Let's fast forward in our time machine to when Jesus is teaching. "You have not because you ask not" He says. If you have a PC Study Bible or a good concordance, simply look up the word ask and then look for the red text, Jesus' comments. I happened to be using the NLT in my search. I'm not going to cite every verse because this is a good study for you to do on your own but let me just give you a few examples: Give to those who ask, Your Father knows what you need even before you ask Him, you will be given what you ask, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask Him, ask Him to send our more workers, Keep on asking and you will be given what you ask...I could go on all day but you get the drift.

Only ask. When we pray, it needs to be with a heart that believes God hears and wants to bless us. He said, only ask. Why do we make things so much bigger and more difficult than we have to when all we need to do is ask?

Heavenly Father, we bow down before You in humble adoration, beginning to get just a glimpse of who You are. You, who created the universe, are better than any magic genie could ever be. Because Jesus tells us if we pray with belief, if we pray the desires of our hearts in accordance with Your will, if we only ask, you will provide it. Thank You God that you have not set us here and left us to fend for ourselves, scrabbling around in the dust fighting for every crumb. You are a loving and merciful God who lavishly pours out blessings on those who love and worship You. Yes, we are humbled, in awe of Your ability to wipe us out, yet instead You bless us beyond our wildest dreams. If we only ask. O Lord, how majestic are your ways! Remind us Holy Spirit to ask and trust that God will provide. In Jesus' precious name we pray, amen.

Journey Through the Psalms - 2:4-6

FaithWalkDaily January 10, 2009

Psalms 2:4-6 But the One who rules in heaven laughs. The Lord scoffs at them. Then in anger he rebukes them, terrifying them with his fierce fury. For the LORD declares, "I have placed my chosen king on the throne in Jerusalem, my holy city."

Just to refresh your memory, yesterday we looked at the first part of this Psalm which referred to foreign kings who fought against Israel and their God.

One of the greatest arguments from atheists and agnostics against our God, YHWH, is that he's too violent, full of wrath, cruel and unjust. I've been considering these arguments myself. Could the God of everlasting love and mercy; incarnate Jesus, the sufferer for our sake; comforter and counselor the Holy Spirit; be the same God who laughs and scoffs at foreign kings, terrifying them with fierce fury?

We must remember that no matter how holy and inspired the authors of Scripture are, they are men. They speak to us in the language and perceptions of men. These comments by the psalmist are similar to those we often make today. How often have you or I said, God must be in heaven chuckling at us for our stupidity or God must have a sense of humor. We project our own reactions, our own perceptions and our own emotional experiences onto the sovereign Creator of the Universe. Is is both idealistic and a coping mechanism.

God is not as we are. Though we are created in His image, that has far deeper meaning than appears on the surface. An image is simply an impression. Let me use the example of a photographic image. Before film is ever processed or a memory card is downloaded to a computer and then printed on paper, the exposed image resides in the dark. The actual image is not what you see but the data that produces the visible spectrum. In film it is the sum of chemicals sandwiched within the film's emulsion and punctuated by silver halides, the films magical image producers. On the memory card it's simply coded information.

God's image in us is that coded information or the perfect combination of chemicals that produce the qualities of God in a man, who is like the paper that reveals the image.

Okay, so now we've established how we come to bear the image of God. Let's get one thing straight, God does not bear the image of man. While He is infinite and perfect, only a minuscule fraction of all that He is has been exposed in each of us. Imagine if you will, how much of a scene the camera lens can expose to the film or memory card at any given time. It's not even as large as a speck of dust when considered against the backdrop of the entire planet or even the scene within our view. Okay so when Infinite God transfers data to finite man, how much do you suppose could be imposed upon one being who is so limited? Not much. That bit of God's image is impressed on our hearts, developed in the human soul, and displayed through our actions and attitudes.

So we have the qualities of God that He has deemed necessary for each of us to accomplish His purposes. Considering how truly limited we are, do you think we really have a clue into the inner mind and heart of this Almighty Creator? He is immeasurably more wise than the greatest human genius.

How does that fit in with the stain of sin in every human being. At the simplest level, what happens to the photographic image when there's a spot on the lens or the processing chemistry is bad? A degraded image. In the same way evil stains the perfect image of God in us. In some the degradation is so great the image is unsalvageable. I've had many photos over the years that have had spots and blemishes. Water or certain chemicals can clean them up pretty well. In the same way, our imperfections are cleansed by blood of Jesus.

Let's go back to the original argument. Can this same magnificent Creator who is utterly perfect be an angry, wrathful being? I don't believe so. Not in any sense you or I or the Psalmist could understand. I believe the words used to describe the Lord's attitude about the enemy are borne of the sinful mind of man projected onto our Holy Creator. We fumble around the best we can from our limited angle and spew our words like a broken sewer line.

What the Psalmist is trying to say in the above verses is this: God is not concerned about those who turn their backs on or come against Him. He has a plan, a perfect plan. He is God. He will do whatever He pleases. We may laugh and scoff at the enemy, God more likely is grieved, I believe. He loves and desires all come to the table of grace. Omniscient God knows that's just not going to happen.

Jesus reigns. We have a King who rules over us and offers wisdom for our survival, through the Holy Spirit. Be still, know that He is God and recognize your own limitations, and that God is limitless.

He protects those He loves and will deal with the rest in the end. That's really all we need to know.

Heavenly Father, thank You for revealing this tiny bit of insight into who You are and the vastness of Your love for us. We are in awe that You would choose us, ignorant as we are and wholly unworthy. We praise You and all that You have done and will do. We offer ourselves according to Your plans for each of us, with Your image impressed upon our very souls, to complete the good works You planned in advance for us to do. May we be tuned in and mindful of the Holy Spirit's guidance as we move through each day. In Jesus name, amen.

Journey Through the Psalms - 2:1-3

FaithWalkDaily January 9. 2009

Why do the nations rage? Why do the people waste their time with futile plans? 2 The kings of the earth prepare for battle; the rulers plot together against the LORD and against his anointed one. 3 "Let us break their chains," they cry,"and free ourselves from this slavery." ~Psalms 2:1-3

I love God's timeless Word. What was true in King David's time has been true through every age and every war - it is still true today as we battle with the middle east in what is essentially a holy war.

The world is a many faceted gem. What we see is only from U.S. soil. While we read the news and get word of what's happening on the other side of the world, what we learn is written by those from our culture, written from an American perspective. Whether coming from a liberal or conservative point of view, it's still coming from an American who lives in the safest, freest, most wealthy nation in the world. We see through somewhat rose-colored glasses.

Suppose your view of the war in Iraq was from Africa, a land of oppression; Ireland, a land embroiled in it's own age-old holy war; Australia, Iraq's ally and a passive people; or China with trading ships in the Persian Gulf. Your thoughts and feelings would be much different about this war if you were a citizen of another nation. Each country also views through the lens of their leaders. We don't any of us know all that goes on, or all that's going to happen, because there are many secrets kept by our leaders for our own good.

As we saw in the first Psalm, living in alignment with God's plan brings peace and joy in one's life. The wicked will ultimately fall. Nothing really changes much in our world. If we align ourselves with God, rely on His strength and promises, put our trust and hope in Him, we will prevail. Those who have felt enslaved by the freedom of our faith are looking through dirty lenses. They do not realize that in surrendering to Jesus, true freedom awaits.

As Jesus said, "Whoever wants to be first must become your slave. For even I, the Son of Man, came here not to be served but to serve others, and to give my life as a ransom for many." Matthew 20:27-28

We can be grateful that we live in the greatest nation in the world; we are the children of God. Wherever we call home on planet earth, our home, our true nation, is in the heavenly realms because of our Savior. The blood of Jesus was spilled for people of every color and every nation, that we become one nation under God, free forever from the bondage of sin.

Heavenly Father, we don't pretend to understand all that goes on in this world. The ways of man are not the ways of God. We bicker amongst ourselves even neighbor to neighbor about what's best for our country, our children, our freedom. You are sovereign and holy, all wise and all powerful. May our trust be in You alone. May the leaders of our nation, who are taking office at a volatile time in our history, seek Your wisdom and guidance to protect not only our borders but the very foundations upon which those perimeters are defined. Lord we lift up today Barak Obama, Joe Biden, Hillary Clinton, Robert Gates, Timothy Geithner, Tom Daschle, Eric Holder, Janet Napolitano, Susan Rice, Steven Chu, Lisa Jackson, Shaun Donovan, Arne Duncan, Ken Salazar, Tom Vilsack, Leon Panetta and all our state representatives, that You would hold them in Your mighty hands, pour out Your wisdom into their hearts and minds, turn their eyes toward You to fulfill Your plans for our nation. Grant each Christian the heart and wisdom to pray for them, be active in sharing our godly hopes, desires and dreams with our state representatives, and that we not stand passively complaining about what they do or don't do according to what we think is right. In Jesus' name we pray, amen.

Journey Through the Psalms - 1

FaithWalkDaily January 8, 2009

To begin this new year, my soul desires to take a walk through the Psalms. We may spend the next year or more on this exciting road. The Psalms speak dearly to me at this stage of my life, when so much has changed and the "world" reels out of control in its quest for self gratification. The more liberal the world becomes, the more difficult it is to follow our compass due north. I pray you will be blessed as we hike this trail together.

~Psalms 1
1 Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with scoffers. 2 But they delight in doing everything the LORD wants; day and night they think about his law. 3 They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season without fail. Their leaves never wither, and in all they do, they prosper.

4 But this is not true of the wicked. They are like worthless chaff, scattered by the wind. 5 They will be condemned at the time of judgment. Sinners will have no place among the godly.
6 For the LORD watches over the path of the godly, but the path of the wicked leads to destruction.

When I was young, due to circumstances beyond my control, life was lonely and frustrating. I'd already begun to contemplate suicide by the age of nine. As a result, I lived much of the time in a fantasy world just to survive. When I finally found a friend who really seemed to want to be with me, she led me into a circle of companions who were all outcasts, just like me. I finally fit in and felt like I belonged. These kids were the chaff, lawless and unholy. Our existence was dominated by mind altering substances. We survived by escaping deeper into non-reality.

I can only praise God with all my heart that He rescued me from certain death. I often wonder what's happened to all those other lost souls and pray for their salvation, if they're still alive. Some have been found living tormented lives, resigned to a fate of misery. One claims to be a Christian but her life is ruled by an abusive conniving husband. Another is into spiritism and crystals.

When we're in that lost world, we don't know what we don't know. Do the wicked have any idea about their fate? Would they seriously continue on the path they've chosen if they really believed their destination was eternal suffering? Have they not suffered enough here on earth? They not only don't know, they don't want to know, and they keep themselves well numbed so they never have to think about it.

When I emerged from an alcoholic stupor nearly 20 years ago, there was an emptiness in my soul that hungered to be filled. That hunger was the desire to know God. When the wicked tried to draw me back into the darkness, I experienced the joys the psalmist speaks of in verse 1 when I turned toward God instead. There has always been a certain affinity with the wayward that requires me to be on my toes at all times. This is why daily devotion, prayer and writing about my spiritual journey is so important for me.

This is my life goal: to delight in doing everything the LORD wants; day and night and think about his law. To be like a tree planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season without fail, with leaves that never wither, prospering in all I do (reaping God's blessings.)

The path is ever upward and winding through unknowns,
Sometimes it is a narrow cliff side way;
It is rocky, often risky, even perilous,
So often we must stop to rest and pray.

The steep ascent will level, it gives way to gentle slopes,
We dance and sing out praises to our King!
We revel, now rejoicing, even carelessly;
Disregarding this is not the end we seek.

As we gather in our revelries, the enemy sneaks in,
Ever vigilant, he aims to take us down;
He's devious and clever, the relentless one;
How quickly we forget that he's around.

Holy Spirit, blessed counselor, gently prods us on the way.
Revived now, we're alert, and armor clad;
Our faithful guide will lead us toward our home again,
Where sorrow is forgotten with the past.

Come Friends who love the Savior, join this journey now,
Don't stop, though there be times when you might rest.
Steer clear of those who can't or will not help you,
Fore go the joys of earth to pass this test.

May we be filled with God's blessings as we travel this marvelous road into the Psalms together this year. In Jesus' name, amen.

New Year, New Opportunities

FaithWalkDaily January 7, 2009

Happy New Year beloved friends!

Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you. ~Ps 9:10

I've been struggling with serious issues of trust lately for a number of reasons. There is trouble with a family member, war across the ocean, identity theft in the news and Internet hackers trying to find a back door into our computers. Can we feel safe anywhere? Trust anyone?

As long as I can remember I've always been a trusting - and some would say naive - person. I never thought of myself as naive, only wanting to give others the benefit of the doubt. But such awful things have happened and the news is so outrageous these days that my innocence has been stolen and I no longer have the luxury of trusting without good reason. Cynicism says all are guilty until proven innocent.

The fact is, we live in a world of sin. We are all guilty before God. Can any of us say we're perfect? Maybe in a given moment but it won't last. There is only one we can really trust because He alone is perfect, He alone cannot sin, He alone can save us from ourselves. Only God can be trusted.

I can spend my days focusing on all the negative and fretting about safety, or I can focus on the One I trust. That puts it all into perspective for me. I'm putting my trust in God. I'm turning my lens to the One who has saved me, guides me, comforts me, loves me unconditionally, will never abandon me, and always knows what's best for me.

Every difficulty we face is an opportunity to grow in faith. Let's praise God for new opportunities to draw closer to Him in 2009, to learn more about Him through His word, and to become the people He's always intended us to be, for His glory.

O Lord our God, we put our trust in you. Though we live in troubled times in a cesspool of sin down here on planet earth, we know nothing happens without reason and there's nothing we can't face and conquer with You on our side. Thank You for not forsaking us though we bring You much grief, for giving us the benefit of the doubt despite our stumbles. You are merciful O God, we praise Your name! In You alone we trust. In Jesus' name, amen.

How Deep the Savior's Love

FaithWalkDaily December 29, 2008

For all have sinned; all fall short of God's glorious standard. Yet now God in his gracious kindness declares us not guilty. He has done this through Christ Jesus, who has freed us by taking away our sins. For God sent Jesus to take the punishment for our sins and to satisfy God's anger against us. ~ Rom 3:23-25 NLT

As another year draws to a close, I've been thinking a lot about my life and my attitude.

A few weeks ago I was on the phone with a friend as our cat Nani Ui moseyed by. I reached down and scratched her head and neck, rather mindlessly as I was chatting with my friend.

Nani is a Bombay with the nature of a Panther. While she can be sweet and loving, she is not a particularly affectionate cat and is quick to let us know when she's had enough. There is always a warning before an attack. Having been scratched a fair number of times, we're wise to her ways.

On this particular day, I was distracted. Nani had reached her limit and had no doubt given me fair warning, which I missed. The next thing I knew, the Tasmanian Devil wrapped itself around my arm and then darted off like Ricochet Rabbit, leaving me bleeding. The bite swelled, turned an angry red, and throbbed all day. Later that afternoon I found myself in urgent care with IV antibiotics dripping in my arm. I was sent home with my arm immobilized, an IV catheter in my vein for a follow up dose, and a bottle of mega caplets.

All the way home I replayed the incident in my head. How can that cat attack me when we give her so much love and care? We adopted her at eight months when she was very ill and listless, and nursed her to good health. She's shown signs of previous abuse, is extremely skittish and terrified of going outdoors. We've been kind and loving to her despite her wild behavior. My sons and others have asked me, why do you keep such an evil cat?

Nani is not evil. Neither are we. We are sinners. We all fall short of the glory of God. We get up, we fall down. We get up, we fall down. Nani is not a hateful or wicked cat. She is who she is. Her nature is wild and it's up to me to be on guard. She reacts according to her God-given nature. And when she snaps, we don't beat her or throw her out. We hold her, stroke her and calm her, letting her know we love her no matter what she does. Are we reinforcing her bad behavior? No. We're reassuring her that no matter how scared or agitated she is, we're not going to turn away from her and stop loving her.

Because of that first act of rebellion in Eden, we're damaged goods. Wild and skittish, showing signs of abuse, we strike out. We all turn on God sometimes when things don't go our way. I can't even count the number of times I've screamed at God when I felt He'd abandoned me. In the quiet of my heart He's always reminded me, "I haven't turned away from you. I will never leave nor forsake you (Heb. 13:5.) I do not change the rules or strike out at you. I AM GOD." He holds me tight in His love reminding me, whatever I do, He's here for me. He wants me to love and serve Him only, and will wait as long as it takes.

"And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." ~ Matt 28:20 NIV

The scar on my wrist will probably be there forever, a reminder of who I am and how much God loves me. I haven't given up on Nani. We'll keep her, love her and care for all her needs until she's old and dies. You don't give up on loved ones just because they don't respond or react as you think they should. Love is unconditional. That even spills over to what others think is an unlovable creature.

I am an unlovable creature in my sin. Praise God He doesn't drop me off at the "animal shelter" when I deserve it! When I fall down, He gently reaches out and pulls me up into His loving care.

Lord God, how merciful You are. You, who could wipe us out with a word, choose instead to wait for us to come to our senses. You know our hearts and desires and that we long to be righteous and holy even as Jesus is righteous and holy. Yet our sin continues to get in the way. We resolve to keep our eyes on You, to seek You, to serve You, our loving Father. Thank You for holding us tight when we're out of control, for never giving up on us. In Jesus' name we pray, amen.

Wishing you all a Blessed and Holy Christmas Season.

May the LORD bless you and protect you.
May the LORD smile on you and be gracious to you.
May the LORD show you his favor and give you his peace. Num 6:24-26

In the love of our Savior,
anne & ruth

THE INNOCENSE OF YOUTH
A Christmas Blessing for all the World

FaithWalkDaily Christmas Devotions...

Jesus is the Reason

I think that trite little saying, Jesus is the Reason for the Season is just about the most brilliant cliche anyone ever came up with. It'll never wear out for me...

I was sent an email with the following list and thought I'd share it today. I didn't write it but it couldn't be more succinct - we all need to remember, especially when times are hard, that our Savior, not Santa, is all we need.

Scripture references were added by me to authenticate the statements.

Why Jesus is Better Than Santa Claus
By Rev. James Spellman of Ohio

*Santa lives at the North Pole... JESUS is everywhere.
Prov 15:3 The LORD is watching everywhere, keeping his eye on both the evil and the good.

*Santa rides in a sleigh... JESUS rides on the wind and walks on the water.
Deut 33:26 "There is no one like the God of Israel. He rides across the heavens to help you,across the skies in majestic splendor.
John 6:19 They were three or four miles out when suddenly they saw Jesus walking on the water toward the boat.

*Santa comes but once a year... JESUS is an ever present help.
Ps 34:17 The LORD hears his people when they call to him for help. He rescues them from all their troubles.

*Santa fills your stockings with goodies... JESUS supplies all your needs.
1 Tim 6:17 But their trust should be in the living God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment.

*You have to wait in line to see Santa... JESUS is as close as the mention of His name.
John 15:16 You didn't choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce fruit that will last, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name.

*Santa lets you sit on his lap... JESUS lets you rest in His arms.
Heb 4:10 For all who enter into God's rest will find rest from their labors...

*Santa doesn't know your name, all he can say is "Hi little boy or girl, what's your name?"... JESUS knew our name before we did. Not only does He know our name, He knows our address too. He knows our history and future and He even knows how many hairs are on our head.
Jer 1:4-5 The LORD gave me a message. He said, 5 "I knew you before I formed you in your mother's womb. Matt 10:30- And the very hairs on your head are all numbered.

*Santa has a belly like a bowl full of jelly... JESUS has a heart full of love.
Rev 3:9 They will acknowledge that you are the ones I love.

*All Santa can offer is HO HO HO... JESUS offers health, help and hope.
Matt 8:13 Then Jesus said to the Roman officer, "Go on home. What you have believed has happened." And the young servant was healed that same hour.
Ps 54:4 But God is my helper.The Lord is the one who keeps me alive!
1 Tim 4:10b ...hope is in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, and particularly of those who believe.

*Santa says "You better not cry"... JESUS says "Cast all your cares on me for I care for you."
1 Peter 5:7

*Santa's little helpers make toys... JESUS makes new life, mends wounded hearts, repairs broken homes and builds mansions.
Titus 3:5 He saved us, not because of the good things we did, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins and gave us a new life through the Holy Spirit.
John 14:27 "I am leaving you with a gift — peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give isn't like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubled or afraid.
John 14:1-2 "Don't be troubled. You trust God, now trust in me. 2 There are many rooms in my Father's home, and I am going to prepare a place for you. If this were not so, I would tell you plainly.

*Santa may make you chuckle but...JESUS gives you a joy that is your strength.
2 Tim 4:17 But the Lord stood with me and gave me strength, that I might preach the Good News in all its fullness for all the Gentiles to hear. And he saved me from certain death.

*While Santa puts gifts under your tree... JESUS became our gift and died on the tree.
John 10:11 "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.

Its obvious there is really no comparison! Jesus is still the reason for the season.

Yes, Jesus is better, he is even better than Santa Claus.

Faith When Reason Fails

FaithWalkDaily December 9, 2008

It's been awhile since I've done any journaling. Writing helps me see where I am, where I've been and where I'm going. I haven't been getting much of anywhere lately. In fact, it feels a little like sliding backwards...

I've been asking often recently, "am I being tested?" If so, I'm not scoring so well. I'm not Job. Sometimes it feels like I'm going insane, like I can't hold up under the pressure. Except - laugh with me now - I am holding up. By a thread woven and held by the hand of God.

A friend was out of work for about six months a couple months ago. They were on the brink of losing their home and had cut out many unnecessary expenses. Then he landed what appeared to be his dream job. All was well. Until a few days ago when he was laid off.

A few months ago, another friend suddenly lost her husband for no apparent reason - he just keeled over and died at the ripe young age of forty-something.

Last year a friend's mother who was in her sixties went beserk. She left home, went on an insane spending spree, stayed in hotels, ate in restaurants, maxed out all her credit cards and nearly bankrupt her husband. Then she died suddenly.

I could go on and on with a list of seemingly senseless tragedies occurring within the Christian community. Are we being tested? How are we doing?

Let's look at Biblical history. Throughout the Old Testament, we see Israel tested again and again. Job was tested. In Luke 8, Jesus talked about the parable of the sower as He told the people to expect their new faith to be tested. Paul warns in Hebrews 3 not to have hardened hearts during testing as the Israelites did in the time of Moses. And James said, "...the testing of your faith develops perseverance." (James 1:3)

James gives us a reason. God tests our faith to develop perseverence.

But why?

Good question. I've come to believe that we need to go to heaven for the answer. We need to look to the time before man was even created. Consider the one who spoiled it all for us.

Lucifer, the bright and beautiful, the beloved of God, angel among angels, brilliant among all the heavenly host. So brilliant in fact, it went to his head. He suddenly found himself admired among his peers and desiring to be worshipped as he had always worshipped God. He aspired to be more beloved than God. It was his last desire before he was cast out of heaven. He got a new job - tormenting us and trying to lead us away from God.

For these times when reason doesn't make sense to me, I can only trust that it makes sense to God, that He's in control and that in the end, all will be well. When reason fails, God never does.

Ps 33:4
4 For the word of the LORD holds true,and everything he does is worthy of our trust.

Lord I submit all my fears and doubts, confusion and hurt, to the foot of the cross. All my trust is in you. Thank You for always giving us the grace to stumble and fumble our way through life, always there to pick us up and set us straight again. In Jesus' name, amen.

Do Real Christians Commit Suicide?

FaithWalkDaily November 26, 2008

Yesterday I was reading a forum from a loving group of Christians in Idaho. One comment hit me like a punch in the gut, "*Bob committed suicide last night, please pray for him." (*The name has been changed to protect privacy.)

I had to back-track up the column of posts to see what kind of "conversation" had taken place with Bob, to see if there was any clue to his depression. He had indeed asked for guidance as he had come to faith just a couple years prior and was under spiritual attack.

I can tell you from personal experience, spiritual warfare is real and common. When one gives their life over to Christ, initially they may experience a kind of euphoria similar to what newlyweds feel. You don't see your spouses warts and foibles until you've been married for some time. The process is gradual as the lovers' facades eventually fade away. No honeymoon lasts forever as reality sets in sooner or later. The high of new faith also dwindles. Faith, like love, after all, is not a feeling, but an action.

By the grace of Christ, I'm transformed, but life on planet earth is still insane, with a hungry wolf on the prowl for defenseless lonely lambs.

When a Christian dives into the Bible and begins to grow deep roots of faith, Satan sits up and takes notice. The enemy goes for the throat to spiritually strangle a man's faith. I believe God allows this, based on the testament of Job and the lives of David and others.

Satan's offensive tests both the new believer and those in their faith community.

Something went terribly wrong for Bob. I don't know whether he failed to communicate the intensity of his struggles or if the body of Christ simply didn't think it was anything to be concerned about. But it wrenched my gut to read that line, "Bob committed suicide last night, pray for him."

It also struck me as imprudent that the girl would write, without thinking it through, "pray for him." Sorry folks, he's dead, there's nothing to pray for. It's over.

The people we need to pray for are family and friends left behind who wonder how they could have missed seeing the depth of Bob's despair, asking themselves over and over, "how could I..."

So where's Bob now? Well, I'm no theological genius but I do spend a good amount of time studying the Bible and have an inkling about God's heart. He's a loving, merciful Father. He cares for us. Peter said, "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." (1 Peter 5:6-7) Humble yourself; call on God; God cares.

Aw, what did Peter know? Well. this guy denied Christ three times just as Jesus said he would. Out of fear, Pete told the enemies of Jesus he didn't know Him. His denial of Christ was certainly not Peter's first mistake nor was it his last. (John 18)

If I'd walked in the presence of God Almighty Himself and someone asked me "do you know this Man?" denying Him just doesn't make sense to me. But I didn't walk in Pete's shoes and I don't know what Bob's family and friends experienced as he plummeted in a downward spiral that ended in self-destruction. We have a human tendency to make light of the serious, to keep our distance from anything too emotional, to placate someone in trouble. Fortunately for us, God isn't like that. Those are Satan's tactics - apathy, shallowness, sarcasm, fear, ignorance, denial...

Let's face it, God could strike us down at any moment because He's God. With all the sick and crazy things that go on in this world you'd think He would. But He doesn't because He loves us. Why? You'll have to ask Him that. Personally, I'm not that nice - I'd have wiped us all off the face of the planet a long time ago. We're a bunch of ungrateful, selfish, filthy pigs who have not properly cared for this beautiful planet or one another. We don't deserve what we've been given. If we got what we deserved, we'd all be dead and in hell forever. Aren't we all glad I'm not God? Forgive me, I digress.

Back to the point. Jesus called Peter a Rock, (Matthew 16) which means he designated him unmovable, dependable, permanent. The whole Christian church was based on what Jesus taught Peter and commissioned him to share. Forgiveness is definitely in the picture here.

So what do we know about God? He created us, He loves us, He knows we're dirt bags and not worthy of the soil under our feet and He forgives us.

Wow, I ask again, where do you think Bob is now? Bob gave his life to Christ a couple years ago. He is a child of God. You can't take that away, no matter what. You can't say there wasn't fruit so he wasn't really a Christian. He was giving his best in faith. Just like Peter fearing for his life, when he was troubled and hurting, Bob faltered. He reached out for help but something went amiss. I am certain that despite his sin, Bob is in the arms of our Savior right now.

I heard a similar story when I attended a Christian women's leadership conference recently. A woman who was loved and nurtured by a Christian congregation after she got saved somehow hit a bottom no one saw coming. She committed suicide. Everyone asked, "how could I..."

Real Christians do commit suicide. Just like real Christians commit many other sins like adultery, fornication, lying, stealing...We all fall short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23)

I'm NOT saying suicide is acceptable any more than adultery. It is NEVER acceptable. It's a tragedy of epic proportions. The one thing that has always kept me from ending my own life when the devil tells me I'm no good, is to think of my husband, sons and friends and what it would do to them. I don't want them living the rest of their lives asking that question, "how could I..."

Pain is a reality, whether emotional or physical. It's not an option. Every human being suffers certain pain at some point or points in our lives. We can't say to God, "hey, I didn't sign up for the agony portion of this existence so can we just skip this part?" We don't get to choose our trials. We do get to choose how we handle them.

Prayer works for me. It keeps me sane and it keeps me alive. It keeps me thinking of others. Perhaps it is just a wee bit selfish...Hm, I'll have to ponder that a bit. Next blog maybe...

Heavenly Father, how we praise You that You are God and I am not! You are the God of mercy, love and hope. We don't understand a lot of things about his crazy world Lord, but we thank You for Jesus, that You sent that part of You that created the world into this world, to walk among us and experience our pain. In that process, You suffered beyond our imagining and died a death that we deserved so our sins could be covered. Thank You! Thank You that You are faithful to keep Your promises, that You will continue the work You've begun in each of us for Your purposes and glory. We may not understand pain, but we accept it as the refining fire that will enrich our lives, strengthen and temper us, and create that mirror shine which reflects Your image in each of us. Grant us the courage to face each day with the grace of Christ in the same way He faced the torture and death we so deserved. In Jesus' holy name we pray, amen.

LIVING WITH PAIN

FaithWalkDaily November 24, 2008

To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. 8 Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. 9 But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. 10 That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Cor 12:7-10

It has been quite a few days since I've written here. The reason is pain. Chronic, unrelenting, debilitating pain.

Please don't think I'm looking for pity. On the contrary, like our teacher Paul, I count it a blessing that God would entrust this thing to me for my strength is not in this human body, but in my Savior Jesus. My time on earth is short in the greater scheme of things

I'm writing today for those who don't understand this kind of thinking, who might think me perhaps some sort of twisted masochist. Believe me, I'm no lover of pain.

Have you stumbled onto this blog "by accident" while searching for information on releif from Chronic Pain?

Not all people who find peace living with impairments, whether emotional or physical, are necessarily people of faith. But all people who choose to rise above their pain and disability necessarily affect other people in positive ways. Let's look at just a few.

Terry Fox - born in 1958 and now deceased, discovered he had malignant tumor in his right leg in 1977. The leg was amputated six inches above the knee. In 1979 he begin training for his Marathon of Hope, a cross-Canada run to raise money for cancer research. During his training he ran 3000 miles. In 1980 he ran an average of 26 miles per day. After 143 days and 3339 miles he had to stop because the cancer had spread to his lungs. In September 1980 he became the youngest companion of the Order of Canada in a special ceremony in his hometown of Por Coquittan, B.C. In 1981 Terry's dream of raising $1.00 from every Canadian to fight cancer became a reality. September 1981 marked the First Annual Terry Fox Run.

Did Terry change lives by choosing to rise above his circumstances? Did he gain strength from his thorn?

Robert Kerrey, born in 1943 and still living, is a former Senator and Governor from Nebraska. He is a decorated veteran of the Vietnam War where he lost his right leg in combat. As an entrepreneur he developed Grandmother’s Restaurant and several sports and fitness enterprises, where many have found employment and enrichment.

How many lives has he touched as a result of choosing to look forward rather than feeling sorry for himself about the past?

Joni Erickson Tada is the founder of Joni and Friends, an organization which accelerates Christian ministry in the disability community.

A diving accident when she was a teenager in 1967 left Joni a quadriplegic in a wheelchair, unable to use her hands. After two years of rehabilitation, Joni re-entered the community with new skills and a fresh determination to help others in similar situations. “My church made a huge difference in my family’s life as they demonstrated the love of God in practical ways,” says Joni.

Mrs. Tada wrote of her experiences in her international best-selling biography, Joni. Her name is now recognized in countries around the world following the distribution in many languages of her biography and the full-length feature film JONI. She has personally visited over 41 countries.

Do you think Joni has encouraged a few people in her disability?

Paul was one of the greatest teachers and transmitter's of the gospel of his time. He doesn't tell us his specific struggle. Was he bipolar? Did he have a painful physical ailment like arthritis? Perhaps, some have suggested, it was epilepsy. Or it might simply have been a leaning toward a particular sin that plagued him. It's theorized there's no clear definition by design because God wanted all who are afflicted, whether by lust, disease or emotional suffering to relate to what the Apostle is telling us. No matter our thorn, we can overcome. In our weakness is strength.

Can you beleive that?

When we share ourselves with others in an encouraging way, we become stronger in the process as we help someone else. It's a natural result of sowing and reaping. In passing the message of Scripture on to another, I'm reminded of my strength in Christ.

Heavenly Father, Your grace is sufficient. We need nothing more than to rest in Your care, knowing that whatever afflicts us will be used for Your purposes, perhaps even to save another. When the enemy strikes at our weakest point, we find our strength in Christ. In the name of Jesus, amen.

Trust in God for Confidence

FaithWalkDaily Novemer 12, 2008

KLOVE's Encouraging Word
Tuesday 11/11/2008

I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. ~ Romans 15:13, NLT

Do we trust God?






Do we really trust God?







I've put these long spaces in this blog because I'm hoping it will encourage you to meditate on that thought, on the verse above.

I don't write these blogs because I'm such a spiritual giant that I can pour out my righteous messages for everyone else to be transformed into godly people. No, I journal my thoughts because just like most of you, I struggle daily with trusting God.

I can see my computer. I can feel the keys beneath my fingertips. I can surf the web for whatever I want. It can take me to places that are good, wholsome and holy, and it can take me to places that are full of darkness, madness, deceit, and evil. I know what my laptop is capable of. I use this piece of equipment every single day and I depend on it. I use it for ministry, to find information, for business, for art, communication, writing...For the most part, I can trust that this little machine will boot up every day and help me accomplish some things. It is good to me.

God I cannot see. How can I put my trust in something or someone I cannot touch? I cannot caress His glorious face. I cannot bow at His physical feet to worship Him. I cannot hear His voice nor feel his breath.

Or can I?

Where is my Lord here on this earth? He is in the brilliance of a painted sky at sunset. He is in the shimmering rocks splashed with icy waters in a rushing mountain creek. He is in the fresh clear water that quenches my thirst. He is in the air I breathe. He is in the food that nourishes me. He is in my soul. I can feel him in the sweet touch of a child's fingers toying with my hair. I can bow at His feet with my heart when I fall to my knees in praise and worship. I hear Him in the stillness of my heart when I sit quietly and meditate on His word. I can feel his holy breath on my neck in a soft summer breeze. God's presence is all around us all the time. He created our planet: all that dwells on it; all that nourishes it; all that feeds us; all that refreshes us; those that minister to us, and the fellowship we share.

This is not a new-agey concept of god in everything. This is the Scriptural concept of Omniscient, Omnipresent, Omnipotent God. The defining perspective here is omni, meaning universal. All covering. All encompassing.

So if we can wrap our minds around the fact that we're created, that we were created by the power that created EVERYTHING, isn't that cause to believe He can pretty much do whatever He wants? Any presence so great certainly has the eternal span spoken of in Scripture - Alpha and Omega - and the wisdom to know what to do with all He's created. The problem is not His lack of ability to control that which He created, the problem is us. It's our lack of obedience and trust.

We don't obey because we don't trust. If we trust, however God leads us, we will obey.

Sarah takes her 4 year old Jason to preschool for the first time. She points to a room and tells Jason to go in. He's afraid. He doesn't know what's in that room. He's never been there before. Sarah knows. She's toured the facility, met the teachers and is quite confident this is a safe and healthy place for her son to be. He will mature here, make new friends, learn new things, and find lots of joy in this place. But all Jason sees is a closed door to a room he's never been in. He's afraid to go in. She gives him a little nudge and he resists. She takes his hand and leads him to the door and opens it. Jason pulls back and digs his heels in. Inside the teacher waits, smiling, speaking words of welcome. Other children turn to look in curiosity. He's still resisting tearfully. He doesn't know these people and he's determined not to go in. Jason trusts his mom because he knows her. So finally, though hesitantly, he enters the room with a sniffle and gratefully accepts a hug from Mommy. "Good boy, Jason. Mommy's proud of you! See you soon," she says as she turns to go.

Aren't we a bit like little Jason when it comes to God? We know Him. Of course we do - He created us. We read His word every day. We believe it because He says it. But when we get to that door, aren't we too afraid to go into the unknown?

How do we get to the point of trusting Him - not just reading the words and believing intellectually, but believing in our hearts that He is who He says He is and will do what He says He will do? How do we step into the unknown fully trusting God's sovereignty?

Part of that is the work of the Holy Spirit. The rest is history. We read the Old Testament and see what God has done. We see what God says He will do. We see that what God said about saving His people was true as Jesus life was fulfilled. And because all that verifies the truth of His word, we can believe that Jesus will indeed return for us just as He said He would. We can believe intellectually, and the Holy Spirit confirmed it in our hearts when we came into Christ in faith. We trusted Jesus by the nudge of the Holy Spirit, Sent from our Father who created us.

God is the source of hope. When we trust Him, peace and joy are the side effects. May we overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Holy Spirit, as You lead us to that place where You send us out on our own, fill us with that peace which we find in God who is our hope. Would that become our confident hope through Your Spirit, to go forth in the work for which You've already planned for us in advance. Today I'm making a decision to fully trust in You, no matter what. In Jesus' name, amen.

Thoughts on our Nation

Because God Cares

FaithWalkDaily November 8, 2008

While I continue to walk in faith daily, I haven't been able to journal as I'd like due to personal conflicts in my life at the present time.

When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. ~ Isaiah 43:2

Conflict is putting it mildly. Total chaos might be a closer description.

There have been times in my life when "cobwebs" have cluttered my mind and things were difficult because of diminished mental capacity. These "cobwebs" were caused by anything from excessive use of alcohol, to prescription medications, to emotional turmoil over issues I've had to deal with.

There have been times in my life when the interference of physical difficulties have blocked my way, ranging from bad relationships, to financial problems, to moves, and medical limitations.

Now I'm dealing with a combination of mental and emotional turmoil along with many physical obstructions that create a tension and frustration ultimately manifesting in my soul as anxiety. It feels like deep waters. Like there's not enough oxygen and I'm suffocating. Like the walls are closing in on me. As though, like Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, I've been cast into the fiery furnace.

What great comfort I find in the words of Isaiah. When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. It only feels like I can't breathe!

I know God is faithful and just. If He says He's in this deep water with me, I can rest assured he's got a full tank and a working regulator. If He says I won't drown, I'll take that breath from His mouthpiece and suck deeply of the air He's provided. If He says I can walk through this fire without being consumed, I may feel the burns for awhile, but I believe Him that I will survive - I won't be burned up.

In the end, it all boils down to trust.

Abraham trusted God when he put his son on that altar, piled up the wood underneath and prepared to drive a blade into his heart. He was ready to do anything God asked Him and in the end, the Lord provided a flawless ram for the sacrifice, sparing his son.

Noah trusted God even though everyone laughed at him. He built the Ark and did everything He was told, according to God's instructions. As a result, he and his family were saved.

Esther trusted God in reaching out to her husband, the Persian King Xerxes, who could have had her killed for daring to approach him. But obediently, she did as she was told and her people were saved.

Mary trusted God when she conceded as a 13 year old virgin girl, to receive the Spirit of God into her womb, bearing Christ Jesus according to the will of the Father.

Men and women throughout Scripture have trusted God in His sovereign ways. I know that whatever I go through, like Moses, Abraham, Sarah, Noah, Esther, Mary and many others, God will walk with me through every trial. He walks with me now. He encourages me with His word. He inspires the words of hope that flow from my fingertips.

When I go through deep waters, He will be with me. When I go through rivers of difficulty, I will not drown. When I walk through the fire of oppression, I will not be burned up; the flames will not consume me. For He is my God, holy and just, loving and merciful.

Thank You Lord, that when it all seems to close in on me and I'm sure I can't take another breath, You remind me of all those who have gone before me, who have trusted and obeyed, and who ultimately reaped Your blessings. You kept them from drowning and did not allow them to be consumed. I put all my trust and faith in You alone God, knowing You have it all under control. In Jesus' name, amen.