Have you had the experience of watching a TV show or movie, or reading a book, and throughout the whole thing you were certain you knew exactly who the bad guy was.....the perpetrator of the crime, the villain.....only to discover at the end that he was one of the good guys and the actual villain was someone you hadn't suspected at all? Things are not always what they seem, are they?
Maybe you have had the experience of looking at the calendar recently and noticing that, according to that calendar, spring has begun. But.....you looked out the window and saw some very contradictory evidence. Like snow! Things are not always what we expect, are they?
Perhaps you made a decision about something. A relationship. A job offer. A new house. A move. And it didn't turn out exactly the way you expected it would. Maybe it turned out better. Or maybe not so much. We've probably all had that kind of experience, to one degree or another. One of those times we learned a life lesson.......that things are not always what they seem.
Almost two thousand years ago, the followers of Jesus learned that lesson. They saw Jesus crucified. They thought He was dead.
But He wasn't!
"And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit." (Matthew 27:50 NIV)
That isn't the end of the story!
It's Friday. But Sunday's coming!
Friday, March 29, 2013
Thursday, March 28, 2013
What a Beautiful Morning!
There's a little more pep in my step this morning. The sun is shining! I have lost track of how many days since I could say that. The snow started on Sunday afternoon. Before that we had rain. And before that, more gloomy days. But today.....sunshine and blue sky! There is great rejoicing in this household!
In addition to being a beautiful morning, it's a special day. On this day, seven years ago, we welcomed our first grandson into the world. Happy Birthday, AJ!
I set aside some other projects yesterday to work on my photo book of our recent trip to Israel. This project had very nearly turned to disaster a few days ago when I somehow deleted the entire thing! Thankfully, Shutterfly was able to restore the project, and so now I'm pressing on. The end is in sight as I just have photos of our last couple of days in Jerusalem to sort through.
It's interesting that sorting through these particular photos comes on this particular weekend. You see, on our last couple of days in Jerusalem, we visited the Mount of Olives, and we retraced Jesus' steps from Gethsemane down the Via Dolorosa to Golgatha and to the Garden Tomb.
Today I'm focusing on photos of the Garden of Gethsemane. Interesting coincidence, some might say. I would not be one of them.
"And going a little farther Jesus fell on his face and prayed, saying, 'My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.'" (Matthew 26:39 ESV)
In addition to being a beautiful morning, it's a special day. On this day, seven years ago, we welcomed our first grandson into the world. Happy Birthday, AJ!
I set aside some other projects yesterday to work on my photo book of our recent trip to Israel. This project had very nearly turned to disaster a few days ago when I somehow deleted the entire thing! Thankfully, Shutterfly was able to restore the project, and so now I'm pressing on. The end is in sight as I just have photos of our last couple of days in Jerusalem to sort through.
It's interesting that sorting through these particular photos comes on this particular weekend. You see, on our last couple of days in Jerusalem, we visited the Mount of Olives, and we retraced Jesus' steps from Gethsemane down the Via Dolorosa to Golgatha and to the Garden Tomb.
Today I'm focusing on photos of the Garden of Gethsemane. Interesting coincidence, some might say. I would not be one of them.
"And going a little farther Jesus fell on his face and prayed, saying, 'My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.'" (Matthew 26:39 ESV)
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Dirty Grout
I have a pretty overwhelming to-do list. And an overwhelming number of projects started but not yet finished. Which doesn't even include the stacks and stacks of books waiting to be read. Overwhelming doesn't even begin to describe it, really.
I still have boxes of old photos that I brought home after Daddy died. I really want to get those sorted through and organized. But it's an overwhelming task. And when all those photos are added to the photos we have collected over the years, overwhelming takes on a whole new meaning!
My family tree project has hit a few snags. It has been interesting to research our family history, but genealogy research is time-consuming and often frustrating. Particularly as I research my Irish ancestors I often get frustrated, since many records in Ireland were destroyed by fire in the early 20th century. But I press on. And I really, really wish I had asked more questions of my parents and grandparents while they were still around and I had the opportunity!
Then there's spring cleaning! Even though winter seems determined to linger, it really is spring and time to begin some spring cleaning. I'm anxious to get moving on this project, particularly since we didn't do any spring cleaning last year. Last spring we packed up and moved ourselves to Columbia before enough spring had arrived here to start any spring cleaning. And since the time we were away is measured in months instead of the weeks we had anticipated, nothing got done inside or out. By the time we got back home, we were too exhausted to care!!
The result is that there's lots of clutter that needs sorting through. Closets and drawers and cupboards that need to be dealt with. Windows with two years of dirt to be washed away. Carpets that need cleaning. It's overwhelming.
And then there's the grout. Why did we put so much tile in this house? Kitchen. Laundry Room. Office. Bathrooms. LOTS of tile. Which means LOTS of grout. Dirty grout. I began a few days ago cleaning the grout on the tile floors. It is really disgusting! And until now, nothing was working. No matter what product of the many we have tried over the years, no matter how much it cost, no matter how hard we scrubbed. Nothing worked on that dirty grout! But thanks to Pinterest, I learned the secret to cleaning grout! Hydrogen Peroxide. Put it in a spray bottle, spray it on, leave it there a few minutes, scrub with a toothbrush, wipe the peroxide away, and there you have it......clean grout!
I wish I had known this a long time ago! But now that I do know how to deal with it, you can be certain I will not be letting this dirt build up over time again. I will deal with it on a regular basis so that it doesn't take over again.
As I have been cleaning the grout, I keep remembering a verse from The Song of Solomon....."catch the foxes for us, the little foxes that spoil the vineyards". Certainly Solomon wasn't writing about dirty grout. But the principle applies, doesn't it? We need to deal with the "little foxes", the little things, before they become big trouble-making foxes. Dealing with a little bit of dirt in the grout as it shows up will be a far easier, far less time-consuming project than the one I am now involved in (and overwhelmed by!).
Sin in our lives is the same way, isn't it? We need to deal with the "little" sins.......the thoughts, the attitudes......before they become the "big" ones.....before those thoughts and attitudes turn into action. The solution is simple, really. Just like the solution to my dirty grout turned out to be a simple one.
"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23)
"For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6:23)
"If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." (Romans 10:9)
"If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9)
I still have boxes of old photos that I brought home after Daddy died. I really want to get those sorted through and organized. But it's an overwhelming task. And when all those photos are added to the photos we have collected over the years, overwhelming takes on a whole new meaning!
My family tree project has hit a few snags. It has been interesting to research our family history, but genealogy research is time-consuming and often frustrating. Particularly as I research my Irish ancestors I often get frustrated, since many records in Ireland were destroyed by fire in the early 20th century. But I press on. And I really, really wish I had asked more questions of my parents and grandparents while they were still around and I had the opportunity!
Then there's spring cleaning! Even though winter seems determined to linger, it really is spring and time to begin some spring cleaning. I'm anxious to get moving on this project, particularly since we didn't do any spring cleaning last year. Last spring we packed up and moved ourselves to Columbia before enough spring had arrived here to start any spring cleaning. And since the time we were away is measured in months instead of the weeks we had anticipated, nothing got done inside or out. By the time we got back home, we were too exhausted to care!!
The result is that there's lots of clutter that needs sorting through. Closets and drawers and cupboards that need to be dealt with. Windows with two years of dirt to be washed away. Carpets that need cleaning. It's overwhelming.
And then there's the grout. Why did we put so much tile in this house? Kitchen. Laundry Room. Office. Bathrooms. LOTS of tile. Which means LOTS of grout. Dirty grout. I began a few days ago cleaning the grout on the tile floors. It is really disgusting! And until now, nothing was working. No matter what product of the many we have tried over the years, no matter how much it cost, no matter how hard we scrubbed. Nothing worked on that dirty grout! But thanks to Pinterest, I learned the secret to cleaning grout! Hydrogen Peroxide. Put it in a spray bottle, spray it on, leave it there a few minutes, scrub with a toothbrush, wipe the peroxide away, and there you have it......clean grout!
I wish I had known this a long time ago! But now that I do know how to deal with it, you can be certain I will not be letting this dirt build up over time again. I will deal with it on a regular basis so that it doesn't take over again.
As I have been cleaning the grout, I keep remembering a verse from The Song of Solomon....."catch the foxes for us, the little foxes that spoil the vineyards". Certainly Solomon wasn't writing about dirty grout. But the principle applies, doesn't it? We need to deal with the "little foxes", the little things, before they become big trouble-making foxes. Dealing with a little bit of dirt in the grout as it shows up will be a far easier, far less time-consuming project than the one I am now involved in (and overwhelmed by!).
Sin in our lives is the same way, isn't it? We need to deal with the "little" sins.......the thoughts, the attitudes......before they become the "big" ones.....before those thoughts and attitudes turn into action. The solution is simple, really. Just like the solution to my dirty grout turned out to be a simple one.
"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23)
"For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6:23)
"If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." (Romans 10:9)
"If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (1 John 1:9)
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
What Are You Praying For?
I'm reading in 1 Samuel right now in my Bible reading plan. Yesterday I read chapters 13 and 14. Since then I have been thinking about.....meditating on.....praying through 1 Samuel 13:14, especially the last part of that verse.
"The LORD has sought out a man after his own heart......"
As I have been thinking about this verse, about the life of King Saul and about King David after him, I am also thinking about the men in my life. About my husband. And my sons. And my grandsons.
And I'm praying this verse for them. That they would be men after God's own heart.
I'm giving thanks to God for my husband. What a blessing it is to have a husband who loves the Lord with all his heart and soul and mind and strength. How I thank God for him.....that he is indeed a man after God's own heart.
I thank God for my sons and for my grandsons as well. I pray that my sons will continue to grow strong in their relationships with the Lord. I pray that they would be overwhelmed by His love for them. That they would delight in Him. That they would truly be men after His own heart.
And I pray that same prayer for my grandsons. I pray that their lives would be totally committed to Jesus. They they would "grow in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man." (Luke 2:52). I pray that they would love Jesus with all their hearts and that they, following in the footsteps of their dads and their Opa, would truly be men after God's own heart.
As I ponder these thoughts and as I pray these things for my family, as I lay these desires of my heart before the LORD, I am thanking Him that He hears and answers prayer. I am thanking Him for the promise of Psalm 37:4......"Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart."
What are the desires of your heart? What are you praying for today?
"The LORD has sought out a man after his own heart......"
As I have been thinking about this verse, about the life of King Saul and about King David after him, I am also thinking about the men in my life. About my husband. And my sons. And my grandsons.
And I'm praying this verse for them. That they would be men after God's own heart.
I'm giving thanks to God for my husband. What a blessing it is to have a husband who loves the Lord with all his heart and soul and mind and strength. How I thank God for him.....that he is indeed a man after God's own heart.
I thank God for my sons and for my grandsons as well. I pray that my sons will continue to grow strong in their relationships with the Lord. I pray that they would be overwhelmed by His love for them. That they would delight in Him. That they would truly be men after His own heart.
And I pray that same prayer for my grandsons. I pray that their lives would be totally committed to Jesus. They they would "grow in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man." (Luke 2:52). I pray that they would love Jesus with all their hearts and that they, following in the footsteps of their dads and their Opa, would truly be men after God's own heart.
As I ponder these thoughts and as I pray these things for my family, as I lay these desires of my heart before the LORD, I am thanking Him that He hears and answers prayer. I am thanking Him for the promise of Psalm 37:4......"Delight yourself in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart."
What are the desires of your heart? What are you praying for today?
Sunday, March 24, 2013
How Rude! Or, How Are Your Manners?
Have you given a gift lately? Did the recipient say "thank you". If not, you may have thought they were just rude!
What if you had to mail the gift, and then you wondered if it had ever arrived. You wondered, because the recipient never acknowledged receiving the gift and never bothered to say thank you. And again, you thought......how rude!
And so you decided you just wouldn't be bothered with gift-giving any more. After all, if the people you give gifts to don't bother to acknowledge receipt of the gifts, and if they don't bother to thank you for the gifts, then you can't be bothered to give them. Right?
Aren't you glad God doesn't think like we do!
When was the last time you received a gift? Yes, I know that Christmas was a few months ago, and it may not be time for your birthday yet. But think about the last gift you received and whether or not you expressed your thanks.
I'm not so much talking about Christmas or birthday gifts. What about the fact that you woke up this morning? What about the air you are breathing? What about the eyesight to see a new day or to read this post? What about the smartphone or computer or tablet on which you are reading this post.
And before you tell me that your phone/computer/tablet was not a gift, that you bought it for yourself, stop and think a minute. Who gave you the ability to do a job and make a paycheck so that you could buy that device?
"Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow." (James 1:17 NASB)
Think about that carefully. Every gift is from God! So exactly how many of those gifts have you taken time to say thank you for so far today? And how many of those gifts......the air you breathe, your eyesight, another day of life......do you just take for granted? If God thought like we think, He would probably be saying "how rude!" But aren't you glad He doesn't? Does God stop giving simply because we are too rude, too busy, too self-absorbed to thank Him? No.
"The LORD's lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning. Great is Your faithfulness." (Lamentations 3:22-23 NASB)
It's a new season. And although in much of the country, including here on this mountain, it doesn't feel very much like spring (it's snowing as I type), a new season is a great opportunity to begin a new habit. A habit of gratitude, in this case. Might we use this as an opportunity to begin a habit of intentional gratitude. Toward our family. Our friends. Our co-workers. Other church members. Toward God. Most of all, toward God.
Particularly as we enter this Holy Week, as we are in this season of reflecting on God's greatest gift to us, might I suggest that we include in our reflections and our celebrations a time of thanksgiving for all that this week, and the events it commemorates, means to us. And as we are remembering to be thankful to our Lord for His sacrifice on our behalf, perhaps that attitude of thanksgiving might spill out on all areas of our lives, and on those around us as well.
Why not begin today? Say "thank you".....even for the little things. Begin a journal of reasons to be thankful. Begin to notice the things people do for you, and acknowledge that. Thank your neighbor.....or your parents.....or your teacher....or your mailmain. Pay attention to your manners......don't be rude! Be thankful!
Most of all, in this Holy Week, on this first day of Passover, give thanks to God for the Passover Lamb, who gave His life to pay the penalty for all our sin.
"Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!" (John 1:29 ESV)
"For Christ died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit." (1 Peter 3:18 NASB)
"And be thankful." (Colossians 3:15b ESV)
What if you had to mail the gift, and then you wondered if it had ever arrived. You wondered, because the recipient never acknowledged receiving the gift and never bothered to say thank you. And again, you thought......how rude!
And so you decided you just wouldn't be bothered with gift-giving any more. After all, if the people you give gifts to don't bother to acknowledge receipt of the gifts, and if they don't bother to thank you for the gifts, then you can't be bothered to give them. Right?
Aren't you glad God doesn't think like we do!
When was the last time you received a gift? Yes, I know that Christmas was a few months ago, and it may not be time for your birthday yet. But think about the last gift you received and whether or not you expressed your thanks.
I'm not so much talking about Christmas or birthday gifts. What about the fact that you woke up this morning? What about the air you are breathing? What about the eyesight to see a new day or to read this post? What about the smartphone or computer or tablet on which you are reading this post.
And before you tell me that your phone/computer/tablet was not a gift, that you bought it for yourself, stop and think a minute. Who gave you the ability to do a job and make a paycheck so that you could buy that device?
"Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow." (James 1:17 NASB)
Think about that carefully. Every gift is from God! So exactly how many of those gifts have you taken time to say thank you for so far today? And how many of those gifts......the air you breathe, your eyesight, another day of life......do you just take for granted? If God thought like we think, He would probably be saying "how rude!" But aren't you glad He doesn't? Does God stop giving simply because we are too rude, too busy, too self-absorbed to thank Him? No.
"The LORD's lovingkindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning. Great is Your faithfulness." (Lamentations 3:22-23 NASB)
It's a new season. And although in much of the country, including here on this mountain, it doesn't feel very much like spring (it's snowing as I type), a new season is a great opportunity to begin a new habit. A habit of gratitude, in this case. Might we use this as an opportunity to begin a habit of intentional gratitude. Toward our family. Our friends. Our co-workers. Other church members. Toward God. Most of all, toward God.
Particularly as we enter this Holy Week, as we are in this season of reflecting on God's greatest gift to us, might I suggest that we include in our reflections and our celebrations a time of thanksgiving for all that this week, and the events it commemorates, means to us. And as we are remembering to be thankful to our Lord for His sacrifice on our behalf, perhaps that attitude of thanksgiving might spill out on all areas of our lives, and on those around us as well.
Why not begin today? Say "thank you".....even for the little things. Begin a journal of reasons to be thankful. Begin to notice the things people do for you, and acknowledge that. Thank your neighbor.....or your parents.....or your teacher....or your mailmain. Pay attention to your manners......don't be rude! Be thankful!
Most of all, in this Holy Week, on this first day of Passover, give thanks to God for the Passover Lamb, who gave His life to pay the penalty for all our sin.
"Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!" (John 1:29 ESV)
"For Christ died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God, having been put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit." (1 Peter 3:18 NASB)
"And be thankful." (Colossians 3:15b ESV)
Friday, March 22, 2013
Front and Center
There's a cross in our church, placed there for the weeks leading up to Easter. Last year it was further back on the platform, more out of the way, you might say. This year it is in a different place.....front and center.
As you can see, it makes a shadow on the screen. And it presents a bit of a challenge for the Pastor. It's a little bit in the way! Where should he stand? What should he do? Maybe he will stand behind the cross!
It's an interesting concept, isn't it? To be literally hidden behind the cross!
Placing the cross in the very front and center of the stage was actually Dr. Wilton's idea, so that he could be hidden behind it. So that the cross would be front and center as he began a three-part sermon series entitled "The Journey". This past week's message was "The Journey to the Cross".
You can see it here: http://www.truthcasting.com/player.aspx#showSermon=67109
The message begins at about the 29:15 mark.
In just one more week we will observe the day we refer to as Good Friday. The day that marks Jesus' death on the cross. The day when we focus our attention on the cross.
But until then, and in all the days that will follow, how much thought are you giving to the cross? What part does the cross play in your life?
Are you hidden behind the cross?
"I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me." (Galatians 2:20 NASB)
As you can see, it makes a shadow on the screen. And it presents a bit of a challenge for the Pastor. It's a little bit in the way! Where should he stand? What should he do? Maybe he will stand behind the cross!
It's an interesting concept, isn't it? To be literally hidden behind the cross!
Placing the cross in the very front and center of the stage was actually Dr. Wilton's idea, so that he could be hidden behind it. So that the cross would be front and center as he began a three-part sermon series entitled "The Journey". This past week's message was "The Journey to the Cross".
You can see it here: http://www.truthcasting.com/player.aspx#showSermon=67109
The message begins at about the 29:15 mark.
In just one more week we will observe the day we refer to as Good Friday. The day that marks Jesus' death on the cross. The day when we focus our attention on the cross.
But until then, and in all the days that will follow, how much thought are you giving to the cross? What part does the cross play in your life?
Are you hidden behind the cross?
"I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me." (Galatians 2:20 NASB)
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Discipline: What An Ugly Word! Or Is It?
I'd like for us to focus our attention today on a verse from yesterday's post. Let's dig a little deeper into 1 Timothy 4:7b....."Discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness."
What does that mean exactly?
What is discipline?
How do we discipline ourselves for the purpose of godliness?
Let's begin with a definition. Here's what an on-line dictionary, www.dictionary.com, had to say:
1. training to act in accordance with rules; drill: military discipline.
What does that mean exactly?
What is discipline?
How do we discipline ourselves for the purpose of godliness?
Let's begin with a definition. Here's what an on-line dictionary, www.dictionary.com, had to say:
1. training to act in accordance with rules; drill: military discipline.
2. activity, exercise, or a regimen that develops or improves a skill; training: A daily stint at the typewriter is excellent discipline for a writer.
3. punishment inflicted by way of correction and training.
4. the rigor or training effect of experience, adversity, etc.: the harsh discipline of poverty.
5. behavior in accord with rules of conduct; behavior and order maintained by training and control: good discipline in an army.
Do any of those definitions help you understand the verse better? I think we most often associate discipline with the third definition - punishment. For example, we think of parents disciplining their children, and generally that refers to punishment of bad behavior.
Perhaps for purposes of understanding this verse, the last definition is the best.....behavior in accord with rules of conduct. Or perhaps the second definition can also aid in our understanding......activity that develops or improves skill. So let's dig a little deeper.
According to the New American Standard Exhaustive Concordance, the Greek word for discipline (the word used in the original language of the New Testament) is gumnazo, which means "to exercise naked" (!!!) or "to train". The Complete Word Study Dictionary, New Testament, by Spiros Zodhiates, confirms this definition....."to train naked, as Greek athletes did; to exercise; to train." This is where we get our English word gymnasium, a place of exercising. Zodhiates goes on to say that metaphorically, gumnazo is used to mean "to train in godliness."
What we have here is an athletic image. We have the challenge to Christians to be as devoted to godliness as an athlete is to his or her sport.
What's the conclusion, then, as we examine this word "discipline"? We certainly understand the discipline of an athlete. We discipline ourselves to get up at a certain time and be to work on time. Or we discipline ourselves to eat this/don't eat that for purposes of health or weight loss. Why do we have such a hard time connecting discipline with our Christian lives?
I believe that being disciplined for the purpose of godliness is about devotion. It is not about drudgery. Or about punishment. It is about our commitment to holy living. It's about training. It's about spending time in the Scriptures, reading and studying so that we know "the rules of the game". What Paul is telling Timothy, and us, is that discipline for godliness comes from "being nourished on the words of faith and sound doctrine" (Kay Arthur et al, Walking in Power, Love, and Discipline). And this comes from spending time in the Word of God. Consistent time. So that we know and live the truth.
So discipline isn't an ugly word, after all! It's a beautiful word. One that reflects love and devotion. A word that portrays a deep and abiding commitment to live for the One who gave His life for us.
"exhorting and encouraging and imploring each one of you as a father would his own children, so that you would walk in a manner worthy of the God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory." (1 Thessalonians 2:11-12 NASB)
What we have here is an athletic image. We have the challenge to Christians to be as devoted to godliness as an athlete is to his or her sport.
What's the conclusion, then, as we examine this word "discipline"? We certainly understand the discipline of an athlete. We discipline ourselves to get up at a certain time and be to work on time. Or we discipline ourselves to eat this/don't eat that for purposes of health or weight loss. Why do we have such a hard time connecting discipline with our Christian lives?
I believe that being disciplined for the purpose of godliness is about devotion. It is not about drudgery. Or about punishment. It is about our commitment to holy living. It's about training. It's about spending time in the Scriptures, reading and studying so that we know "the rules of the game". What Paul is telling Timothy, and us, is that discipline for godliness comes from "being nourished on the words of faith and sound doctrine" (Kay Arthur et al, Walking in Power, Love, and Discipline). And this comes from spending time in the Word of God. Consistent time. So that we know and live the truth.
So discipline isn't an ugly word, after all! It's a beautiful word. One that reflects love and devotion. A word that portrays a deep and abiding commitment to live for the One who gave His life for us.
"exhorting and encouraging and imploring each one of you as a father would his own children, so that you would walk in a manner worthy of the God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory." (1 Thessalonians 2:11-12 NASB)
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
What's Your Passion?
I have been challenged over the last several days by some things I have read. Let me share a few of them with you.
First, there's this quote from Nancy Leigh DeMoss that I read on Facebook:
"If someone were to ask me “what do Christians love?”, my answer based on my Christian friends’ Tweets would be… Downton Abbey, Duck Dynasty, American Idol, the Oscars and March Madness. Why do so many followers of Jesus seem to be more passionate about these things than His Word, His people and His Kingdom?"
Then there's this from Randy Alcorn on his blog, which can be found at www.epm.org: "I think what we’ve got to do is look at everything in our lives and ask, “Is this under the lordship of Christ?” Christ is to be Lord of my whole life—including my house, car, hobbies, television-watching, and whatever role sports may have in my life.
In 1 Corinthians 10:31 we’re told, “Whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” So with anything in my life, I have to say, “Can I do this to God’s glory?” and also “Am I actually doing this to God’s glory?”
Whether it’s fantasy football or quilting, whether it’s Facebooking or email or movie-watching—whatever it is—is this thing an instrument or a tool of God in my life that’s bringing about some good things like rest, recreation, and intellectual stimulation? Or is this thing a bad thing that is distracting me from kingdom priorities?"
There's this quote from A. W. Tozer, also seen on Randy Alcorn's blog, "Distractions must be conquered, or they will conquer us."
And finally, there's this from The Daily Encouraging Word (which can be found at www.theencouragingword.org), "John Wesley, founder of the Methodist Church, travelled two hundred and fifty thousand miles on horseback, averaging twenty miles a day for forty years. He preached forty thousand sermons, produced four hundred books, and knew ten languages. At eighty-three he was annoyed that he couldn't write more than fifteen hours a day without his eyes hurting. And at eighty-six he was ashamed he couldn't preach more than twice a day. He complained in his diary of an increasing tendency to lie in bed until 5:30 a.m."
I don't know about you, but each of these quotes spoke to me in the very depths of my being. Challenged me to examine how I spend my time and energy. To consider what my priorities are. What my passion is.
Now let's add this verse that was a part of our Sunday morning Bible study this past week: "Discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness." (1 Timothy 4:7b NASB)
It's time for some serious self-examination and reflection, isn't it? How are we, you and I, spending our time? What do our choices - of entertainment, books, TV shows, leisure activities, etc. - reveal about our priorities? What is our passion? What is it that is really important to us? Most important to us? Does what we say match up with what we do?
Something to think about.
"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness....." (Matthew 6:33 ESV)
First, there's this quote from Nancy Leigh DeMoss that I read on Facebook:
"If someone were to ask me “what do Christians love?”, my answer based on my Christian friends’ Tweets would be… Downton Abbey, Duck Dynasty, American Idol, the Oscars and March Madness. Why do so many followers of Jesus seem to be more passionate about these things than His Word, His people and His Kingdom?"
Then there's this from Randy Alcorn on his blog, which can be found at www.epm.org: "I think what we’ve got to do is look at everything in our lives and ask, “Is this under the lordship of Christ?” Christ is to be Lord of my whole life—including my house, car, hobbies, television-watching, and whatever role sports may have in my life.
In 1 Corinthians 10:31 we’re told, “Whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” So with anything in my life, I have to say, “Can I do this to God’s glory?” and also “Am I actually doing this to God’s glory?”
Whether it’s fantasy football or quilting, whether it’s Facebooking or email or movie-watching—whatever it is—is this thing an instrument or a tool of God in my life that’s bringing about some good things like rest, recreation, and intellectual stimulation? Or is this thing a bad thing that is distracting me from kingdom priorities?"
There's this quote from A. W. Tozer, also seen on Randy Alcorn's blog, "Distractions must be conquered, or they will conquer us."
And finally, there's this from The Daily Encouraging Word (which can be found at www.theencouragingword.org), "John Wesley, founder of the Methodist Church, travelled two hundred and fifty thousand miles on horseback, averaging twenty miles a day for forty years. He preached forty thousand sermons, produced four hundred books, and knew ten languages. At eighty-three he was annoyed that he couldn't write more than fifteen hours a day without his eyes hurting. And at eighty-six he was ashamed he couldn't preach more than twice a day. He complained in his diary of an increasing tendency to lie in bed until 5:30 a.m."
I don't know about you, but each of these quotes spoke to me in the very depths of my being. Challenged me to examine how I spend my time and energy. To consider what my priorities are. What my passion is.
Now let's add this verse that was a part of our Sunday morning Bible study this past week: "Discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness." (1 Timothy 4:7b NASB)
It's time for some serious self-examination and reflection, isn't it? How are we, you and I, spending our time? What do our choices - of entertainment, books, TV shows, leisure activities, etc. - reveal about our priorities? What is our passion? What is it that is really important to us? Most important to us? Does what we say match up with what we do?
Something to think about.
"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness....." (Matthew 6:33 ESV)
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Ancient Words
Our congregation learned a new hymn on Sunday. At least it was new in the sense that it was the first time we had sung it together as a congregation. I certainly hope it won't be the last! It's a relatively new hymn called "Ancient Words". If it isn't familiar to you, here are some of the lyrics:
"Holy words, long preserved,
For our walk in this world,
They resound with God's own heart.
Oh, let the ancient words impart.
Words of life, words of hope,
Give us strength, help us cope,
In this world, where e'er we roam,
Ancient words will guide us home.
Chorus:
Ancient words ever true.
Changing me, and changing you.
We have come with open hearts.
Oh, let the ancient words impart.
(-Michael W. Smith)
Ancient words. Oh, how precious are the ancient words of Scripture. How blessed we are that God has revealed Himself, His works and His ways, to us through the written word, preserved down through the centuries for us. Whether we are reading the Scriptures in their original languages, or no matter which English translation we are using, these are words to be treasured. As Paul told us in his letter to Timothy, they are "profitable" for us......"for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness" that we may be "equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:16-17 ESV)
It is because these words are so precious and because they are profitable for us that I get so disturbed when I hear them misused or misapplied or inaccurately quoted. We are told in the Book of Joshua to "Be very careful to observe the commandment and the law" (Joshua 22:5 ESV). It is my belief that those words did not apply only to the Hebrew people getting ready to enter the Promised Land, but that we must take them to heart as well. We must be very careful. We must study the Word of God carefully and we must apply it carefully. And we must be very careful that we don't mix into the Word things we have heard from other sources and put those words on equal standing with the Word of God.
I cringe, at least inwardly, when I hear people say things like "God helps those who help themselves", and who really believe that is a Biblical saying. In fact that saying does not come from the Bible, but comes from "Poor Richard's Almanac", written by Benjamin Franklin and not said by Jesus! The origin of that phrase actually goes back to Algernon Sydney in a 1698 article titled "Discourses Concerning Government"!
The Bible actually teaches that God helps the helpless. For example, look at Isaiah 25:4 ("For you have been a stronghold to the poor, a stronghold to the needy in his distress.....") or at Romans 5:6 ("For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly.")
And I really, really cringe when I hear, as I did recently, things like "well, you know what Jesus said.....hate the sin and love the sinner." The problem is, Jesus didn't say that. Mahatma Ghandhi did. And centuries before him, a similar phrase was used by St. Augustine of Hippo.
I'm not saying all this to be critical, but rather to demonstrate what a Biblically illiterate people we have become. And that breaks my heart. God has given us His word.....this "Ancient Word"......and we just take it so for granted, especially in the United States. With our virtually unlimited access to the Word, in multiple formats and in multiple translations and with multiple copies of the Word in our homes, we act as though that is enough. As though physical access to the Word is all we need. And if we pick it up and dust it off occasionally, or if we read a verse or two here and there, or if we show up on Sunday morning, that's enough.
But it isn't nearly enough. How do we know that there won't come a day in this country when we won't have that unlimited access to the Word of God?
What gives us the right to be such lazy Christians anyway? It is my firm belief that God has given us His Word, this written revelation of Himself, in order for us to know Him better, in order for us to read it and study it and understand it. So that we would then know how we should live in a way that honors and glorifies and magnifies Him.
Life is not all about me. Or all about you. It's all and only about Him. And knowing how to live life in a way that honors Him, that is in obedience to Him, is learned by studying His Word, those "Ancient Words" that have been left to us.
Oh, that we would value those words more. That we would spend time in those Words. That we would study them. That we would hide them in our hearts. That we would handle them accurately.
"Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15 NASB)
"Blessed is the one who reads and those who hear the words of the prophecy, and heed the things which are written in it; for the time is near." (Revelation 1:3 NASB)
I cringe, at least inwardly, when I hear people say things like "God helps those who help themselves", and who really believe that is a Biblical saying. In fact that saying does not come from the Bible, but comes from "Poor Richard's Almanac", written by Benjamin Franklin and not said by Jesus! The origin of that phrase actually goes back to Algernon Sydney in a 1698 article titled "Discourses Concerning Government"!
The Bible actually teaches that God helps the helpless. For example, look at Isaiah 25:4 ("For you have been a stronghold to the poor, a stronghold to the needy in his distress.....") or at Romans 5:6 ("For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly.")
And I really, really cringe when I hear, as I did recently, things like "well, you know what Jesus said.....hate the sin and love the sinner." The problem is, Jesus didn't say that. Mahatma Ghandhi did. And centuries before him, a similar phrase was used by St. Augustine of Hippo.
I'm not saying all this to be critical, but rather to demonstrate what a Biblically illiterate people we have become. And that breaks my heart. God has given us His word.....this "Ancient Word"......and we just take it so for granted, especially in the United States. With our virtually unlimited access to the Word, in multiple formats and in multiple translations and with multiple copies of the Word in our homes, we act as though that is enough. As though physical access to the Word is all we need. And if we pick it up and dust it off occasionally, or if we read a verse or two here and there, or if we show up on Sunday morning, that's enough.
But it isn't nearly enough. How do we know that there won't come a day in this country when we won't have that unlimited access to the Word of God?
What gives us the right to be such lazy Christians anyway? It is my firm belief that God has given us His Word, this written revelation of Himself, in order for us to know Him better, in order for us to read it and study it and understand it. So that we would then know how we should live in a way that honors and glorifies and magnifies Him.
Life is not all about me. Or all about you. It's all and only about Him. And knowing how to live life in a way that honors Him, that is in obedience to Him, is learned by studying His Word, those "Ancient Words" that have been left to us.
Oh, that we would value those words more. That we would spend time in those Words. That we would study them. That we would hide them in our hearts. That we would handle them accurately.
"Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15 NASB)
"Blessed is the one who reads and those who hear the words of the prophecy, and heed the things which are written in it; for the time is near." (Revelation 1:3 NASB)
Monday, March 18, 2013
Our Times Are in His Hand
How did you spend your weekend? I went to a birthday party. And not just any birthday party. A party for my cousin. And not just any cousin. On Saturday, many of my cousins and I gathered together to celebrate the birthday of our oldest cousin, Anne Sevier. Anne turned 106 on Saturday!
We marked the occasion with balloons and cake, and with lots of laughter. Most of the cousins who lived within driving distance were able to be there. And frankly, it was good to all be together in the same place for some reason other than a funeral! Some friends from Anne's church stopped by, along with her former pastor, now retired. Her current pastor had stopped by earlier in the day.
The nursing home where Anne resides (and where she is the oldest resident!) asked what special foods she would like for her birthday. She selected shrimp cocktail and she-crab soup from a local restaurant, so that was served to her for lunch. The nursing home had also asked if there was anything she is no longer able to do that she would like to do just one more time. She said she wishes she could go swimming! So tomorrow she is being taken to the YMCA in Spartanburg to swim! They had planned to take her on Friday, but Anne refused to go, saying that if something went wrong she didn't want her birthday party to turn into a funeral!
Obviously she still has a sense of humor. She is no longer able to see, and her hearing is almost completely gone. But her mind is as sharp as ever.
For many years Anne taught English and Literature at Winthrop College, now Winthrop University, her alma mater (and mine). Many of her former students still think of her as one of the best teachers they ever had. Certainly she had a reputation on the Winthrop campus. I often heard it said during my years at Winthrop that she was appropriately named......that Miss Sevier was indeed severe! She definitely was a demanding teacher and had high expectations of her students.
And in character, she expected each of us on Saturday to sit in the chair next to her and give account of what we have been doing with ourselves. Sitting directly next to her is necessary since the little hearing she still has is only in the left ear, and even then, speaking very loudly is required!
As I mentioned, Anne's mind is as sharp as ever. One of the highlights of the day for me was hearing her quote (accurately, I might add) portions of one of her favorite poems, Rabbi Ben Ezra, by her favorite poet, Robert Browning. It was an appropriate selection for the day. Here's a snippet:
We marked the occasion with balloons and cake, and with lots of laughter. Most of the cousins who lived within driving distance were able to be there. And frankly, it was good to all be together in the same place for some reason other than a funeral! Some friends from Anne's church stopped by, along with her former pastor, now retired. Her current pastor had stopped by earlier in the day.
The nursing home where Anne resides (and where she is the oldest resident!) asked what special foods she would like for her birthday. She selected shrimp cocktail and she-crab soup from a local restaurant, so that was served to her for lunch. The nursing home had also asked if there was anything she is no longer able to do that she would like to do just one more time. She said she wishes she could go swimming! So tomorrow she is being taken to the YMCA in Spartanburg to swim! They had planned to take her on Friday, but Anne refused to go, saying that if something went wrong she didn't want her birthday party to turn into a funeral!
Obviously she still has a sense of humor. She is no longer able to see, and her hearing is almost completely gone. But her mind is as sharp as ever.
For many years Anne taught English and Literature at Winthrop College, now Winthrop University, her alma mater (and mine). Many of her former students still think of her as one of the best teachers they ever had. Certainly she had a reputation on the Winthrop campus. I often heard it said during my years at Winthrop that she was appropriately named......that Miss Sevier was indeed severe! She definitely was a demanding teacher and had high expectations of her students.
And in character, she expected each of us on Saturday to sit in the chair next to her and give account of what we have been doing with ourselves. Sitting directly next to her is necessary since the little hearing she still has is only in the left ear, and even then, speaking very loudly is required!
As I mentioned, Anne's mind is as sharp as ever. One of the highlights of the day for me was hearing her quote (accurately, I might add) portions of one of her favorite poems, Rabbi Ben Ezra, by her favorite poet, Robert Browning. It was an appropriate selection for the day. Here's a snippet:
Grow old along with me!
The best is yet to be,
The last of life, for which
the first was made:
Our times are in His hand
Who saith "A whole I planned,
Youth shows but half; trust
God: see all, nor be afraid!''
Friday, March 15, 2013
Out of Sorts
Mornings like this one just prove what a creature of habit I am. Some might say they just prove my OCD-ness!
It all started when I woke up but decided to just lie in bed a few more minutes. Which turned into more than an hour. So that when I came dragging out of the bedroom, I realized that Al would be coming up from the office for breakfast soon. He usually gets a little early morning work in before we have breakfast. And since it was almost the time he usually comes up for breakfast, I knew I wouldn't have time for my leisurely cup of coffee and my Bible reading. So I put that on hold and started the oatmeal.
Just as the water started to boil, Al came up from the office to say that he had forgotten he had to be on a call in just a couple of minutes. So I fixed him a quick "to-go" breakfast of some leftover sausage and "egg muffins" that I quickly reheated in the microwave, while at the same time continuing to prepare the oatmeal which I would now eat alone. (You can find "egg muffins" on Pinterest, if you're interested.) And I still hadn't had my coffee or Bible reading.
Al took his "to-go" plate back down to the office, I finished the oatmeal and ate it alone. And finally I sat down to my Bible reading and coffee. If you know me at all, you know that coffee should be the very first thing. It's very much needed to jumpstart my brain in the morning. And the very next thing should have been my Bible. Not only is that an ingrained habit, but it's so necessary to get my mind and heart into the right frame of mind for the day. At least I got a verse off that calendar in the window while I was waiting on my oatmeal. And it was a good verse to start the day with......"If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31 ESV).
I guess the answer to that question is "me". I have been dragging all morning. Really out of sorts. Mostly with myself. My typical morning routine - coffee and Bible, followed later by a quick check of Facebook to see what's going on in the world and with my friends, followed by more coffee and breakfast, and then on to the day's tasks - was interrupted by no one other than myself. I stayed in bed too long. Then I didn't get my coffee. Didn't have my Bible reading at the right time. I read after my oatmeal, but that was out of order. Out of order is not something I deal with very well. And besides that, if I can just be brutally honest here, reading "And the people of Israel did what was evil in the sight of the LORD. They forgot the LORD their God.........And the people of Israel again did what was evil in the sight of the LORD.......And the people of Israel again did what was evil in the sight of the LORD......." (Judges 3:7, 12; 4:1 ESV) did not really do a whole lot to improve my mood!
And to top it off, when I got around to what I intended to be a quick Facebook check, I couldn't get on line. No idea why. As I have probably mentioned before, what I understand about computers doesn't fill a thimble. Eventually the problem was resolved.....Al restarted our modem, I rebooted my computer.....and here I am.
The end result of all of this is that I am still a bit out of sorts. "My get up and go done got up and went", as the old saying goes. I am really, really, really trying to get into a better frame of mind. But I'm off to a rough start today.
All because I stayed in bed too long. And because my coffee and Bible reading didn't come first.
"Give ear to my words, O LORD, consider my meditation. Hearken unto the voice of my cry, my King, and my God: for unto thee will I pray. My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up." (Psalm 5:1-3 KJV)
It all started when I woke up but decided to just lie in bed a few more minutes. Which turned into more than an hour. So that when I came dragging out of the bedroom, I realized that Al would be coming up from the office for breakfast soon. He usually gets a little early morning work in before we have breakfast. And since it was almost the time he usually comes up for breakfast, I knew I wouldn't have time for my leisurely cup of coffee and my Bible reading. So I put that on hold and started the oatmeal.
Just as the water started to boil, Al came up from the office to say that he had forgotten he had to be on a call in just a couple of minutes. So I fixed him a quick "to-go" breakfast of some leftover sausage and "egg muffins" that I quickly reheated in the microwave, while at the same time continuing to prepare the oatmeal which I would now eat alone. (You can find "egg muffins" on Pinterest, if you're interested.) And I still hadn't had my coffee or Bible reading.
Al took his "to-go" plate back down to the office, I finished the oatmeal and ate it alone. And finally I sat down to my Bible reading and coffee. If you know me at all, you know that coffee should be the very first thing. It's very much needed to jumpstart my brain in the morning. And the very next thing should have been my Bible. Not only is that an ingrained habit, but it's so necessary to get my mind and heart into the right frame of mind for the day. At least I got a verse off that calendar in the window while I was waiting on my oatmeal. And it was a good verse to start the day with......"If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31 ESV).
I guess the answer to that question is "me". I have been dragging all morning. Really out of sorts. Mostly with myself. My typical morning routine - coffee and Bible, followed later by a quick check of Facebook to see what's going on in the world and with my friends, followed by more coffee and breakfast, and then on to the day's tasks - was interrupted by no one other than myself. I stayed in bed too long. Then I didn't get my coffee. Didn't have my Bible reading at the right time. I read after my oatmeal, but that was out of order. Out of order is not something I deal with very well. And besides that, if I can just be brutally honest here, reading "And the people of Israel did what was evil in the sight of the LORD. They forgot the LORD their God.........And the people of Israel again did what was evil in the sight of the LORD.......And the people of Israel again did what was evil in the sight of the LORD......." (Judges 3:7, 12; 4:1 ESV) did not really do a whole lot to improve my mood!
And to top it off, when I got around to what I intended to be a quick Facebook check, I couldn't get on line. No idea why. As I have probably mentioned before, what I understand about computers doesn't fill a thimble. Eventually the problem was resolved.....Al restarted our modem, I rebooted my computer.....and here I am.
The end result of all of this is that I am still a bit out of sorts. "My get up and go done got up and went", as the old saying goes. I am really, really, really trying to get into a better frame of mind. But I'm off to a rough start today.
All because I stayed in bed too long. And because my coffee and Bible reading didn't come first.
"Give ear to my words, O LORD, consider my meditation. Hearken unto the voice of my cry, my King, and my God: for unto thee will I pray. My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up." (Psalm 5:1-3 KJV)
Thursday, March 14, 2013
Be Very Careful - Some Good Advice
Yesterday I finished Joshua in my Bible reading plan. Joshua and Deuteronomy before it have a few things in common, and I've been pondering that since I finished my reading yesterday.
At the end of each book the leader of the Israelites is at the end of his life, Moses in Deuteronomy, and Joshua in......well, in Joshua. And as each of these men came to the end of their lives, they spent some time looking back over what God had done. Several chapters of Deuteronomy list out all that God had done in bringing the Israelites from Egypt to the brink of the Promised Land. This is followed by what is often called the Song of Moses, a doxology of praise for all God had done.
Joshua follows a similar pattern as he gives a final word of encouragement and instruction to the people, along with reminders of God's goodness. This is one of the things he said to them:
"You know in your hearts and souls, all of you, that not one word has failed of all the good things that the LORD your God promised concerning you." (Joshua 23:14 ESV, emphasis mine)
That's something that would be good for us to remember as well. Especially in those times when we're feeling frustrated or discouraged. And we all have those times, don't we? So let's take some advice from Joshua and remember that not one word of God's promises has failed.
Joshua gave some other instructions to the Israelites on their way. These are words we would do well to take to heart. Some advice we would do well to heed. Consider these words, some of the good advice that Joshua gave to the people of Israel. Or maybe you just want to sit down and read the entire Book of Joshua. If you do, I know you will be blessed and encouraged, just as I was.
"This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it." (Joshua 1:8 ESV)
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9 ESV)
"Not one word of all the good promises that the LORD had made to the house of Israel had failed, all came to pass." (Joshua 21:45 ESV)
"Only be very careful to observe the commandment and the law that Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you, to love the LORD your God, and to walk in all his ways and to keep his commandments and to cling to him and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul." (Joshua 22:5-6 ESV, emphasis mine)
At the end of each book the leader of the Israelites is at the end of his life, Moses in Deuteronomy, and Joshua in......well, in Joshua. And as each of these men came to the end of their lives, they spent some time looking back over what God had done. Several chapters of Deuteronomy list out all that God had done in bringing the Israelites from Egypt to the brink of the Promised Land. This is followed by what is often called the Song of Moses, a doxology of praise for all God had done.
Joshua follows a similar pattern as he gives a final word of encouragement and instruction to the people, along with reminders of God's goodness. This is one of the things he said to them:
"You know in your hearts and souls, all of you, that not one word has failed of all the good things that the LORD your God promised concerning you." (Joshua 23:14 ESV, emphasis mine)
That's something that would be good for us to remember as well. Especially in those times when we're feeling frustrated or discouraged. And we all have those times, don't we? So let's take some advice from Joshua and remember that not one word of God's promises has failed.
Joshua gave some other instructions to the Israelites on their way. These are words we would do well to take to heart. Some advice we would do well to heed. Consider these words, some of the good advice that Joshua gave to the people of Israel. Or maybe you just want to sit down and read the entire Book of Joshua. If you do, I know you will be blessed and encouraged, just as I was.
"This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it." (Joshua 1:8 ESV)
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:9 ESV)
"Not one word of all the good promises that the LORD had made to the house of Israel had failed, all came to pass." (Joshua 21:45 ESV)
"Only be very careful to observe the commandment and the law that Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you, to love the LORD your God, and to walk in all his ways and to keep his commandments and to cling to him and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul." (Joshua 22:5-6 ESV, emphasis mine)
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Practice Makes Perfect
You may have heard that phrase somewhere along the way.....practice makes perfect. Maybe from a piano teacher or a ball coach. Maybe from your parents. I'm quite certain that in my years as a piano teacher, I said it myself. Always with a smile on my face, I'm sure, as I uttered that mantra....practice makes perfect.....at the same time as I gave instruction to do it again.
Over the years I have come to believe that phrase is not entirely accurate. Practice doesn't make perfect. Only perfect practice makes perfect. After all, if you continually practice something......whether a piano scale or a multiplication table or an athletic technique......incorrectly, the end result is that you have learned the wrong thing!
What is the point of practice anyway? Of those endless repetitions? Practice serves more than just filling time. Some might say that practice is done in order to get it right, whatever the "it" might be, whether in music or in math or in athletics or in any other endeavor. And I suppose that is true. But I think practice is more than that. The point is not that we always get it right. It's so that we never get it wrong.
Let's apply that point to multiplication tables as an example. If you drill repeatedly (practice) on your 9 times table, for example, you will learn that 9x7=63. Once you have practiced that enough, you will always know that 9x7=63. Further, you will never think that 9x7=72, or any other number. Always and only 63. You won't have to stop and try to figure it out. Or count it out on your fingers. Or question whether or not it is true. If you have practiced enough, if you have learned this fact well, then you will always instinctively know it. You will always get it right.
The same principle applies to musical scales or football plays or how to hold a baseball bat. Perfect practice makes perfect. But imperfect practice (practicing the wrong numbers or the wrong technique repeatedly) will lead to an incorrect result every time. However, when you correctly practice repeatedly, you will always get the desired result because you are so well trained that you can't do it any other way.
Apply that principle to the spiritual realm. The Apostle Paul instructed Timothy to "charge certain persons not to teach any different doctrine, nor to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies, which promote speculations rather than the stewardship from God that is by faith......by [this] some have made shipwreck of their faith. (1 Timothy 1:3-4, 19 ESV).
How do we hold to sound doctrine? How do we practice our doctrine in such a way as not to "make shipwreck of our faith"? Might I suggest that the place to begin is in the Word of God itself. In learning what God has to say rather than relying solely on what others say about Him. In reading the Word of God rather than relying on books about the Word of God.
In order to hold to sound doctrine, we must immerse ourselves in the Word of God. We must read it regularly and repeatedly. Not just once in a while. Not just once in a lifetime. But over and over. It must become so ingrained in us that we will know with certainty when something we hear is contrary to the Word. So that our senses are finely tuned to what God has to say. So that we know it well. So that we can't get it wrong!
"Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15 NASB)
Over the years I have come to believe that phrase is not entirely accurate. Practice doesn't make perfect. Only perfect practice makes perfect. After all, if you continually practice something......whether a piano scale or a multiplication table or an athletic technique......incorrectly, the end result is that you have learned the wrong thing!
What is the point of practice anyway? Of those endless repetitions? Practice serves more than just filling time. Some might say that practice is done in order to get it right, whatever the "it" might be, whether in music or in math or in athletics or in any other endeavor. And I suppose that is true. But I think practice is more than that. The point is not that we always get it right. It's so that we never get it wrong.
Let's apply that point to multiplication tables as an example. If you drill repeatedly (practice) on your 9 times table, for example, you will learn that 9x7=63. Once you have practiced that enough, you will always know that 9x7=63. Further, you will never think that 9x7=72, or any other number. Always and only 63. You won't have to stop and try to figure it out. Or count it out on your fingers. Or question whether or not it is true. If you have practiced enough, if you have learned this fact well, then you will always instinctively know it. You will always get it right.
The same principle applies to musical scales or football plays or how to hold a baseball bat. Perfect practice makes perfect. But imperfect practice (practicing the wrong numbers or the wrong technique repeatedly) will lead to an incorrect result every time. However, when you correctly practice repeatedly, you will always get the desired result because you are so well trained that you can't do it any other way.
Apply that principle to the spiritual realm. The Apostle Paul instructed Timothy to "charge certain persons not to teach any different doctrine, nor to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies, which promote speculations rather than the stewardship from God that is by faith......by [this] some have made shipwreck of their faith. (1 Timothy 1:3-4, 19 ESV).
How do we hold to sound doctrine? How do we practice our doctrine in such a way as not to "make shipwreck of our faith"? Might I suggest that the place to begin is in the Word of God itself. In learning what God has to say rather than relying solely on what others say about Him. In reading the Word of God rather than relying on books about the Word of God.
In order to hold to sound doctrine, we must immerse ourselves in the Word of God. We must read it regularly and repeatedly. Not just once in a while. Not just once in a lifetime. But over and over. It must become so ingrained in us that we will know with certainty when something we hear is contrary to the Word. So that our senses are finely tuned to what God has to say. So that we know it well. So that we can't get it wrong!
"Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15 NASB)
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Remembering....Reflecting.....Or How to Spend a Gloomy Winter Day
Yesterday was one of the gloomiest days I've experienced in quite some time. We were fogged in for most of the day here on our mountaintop. Even in midafternoon, it was as dark as early morning just before the sun comes up or as late evening just before it's completely dark. A very strange day indeed. I felt as though I must have moved to Alaska in midwinter, since we had so little light throughout the day.
I spent some time yesterday working on a photo book of our most recent trip to Israel. I've been working on this project for a while now. It's quite a daunting task, since there are thousands of photos to sort through. The sorting alone is time-consuming, but is made even more so because I tend to stop so often for remembering and reflecting. Eventually I decided that I would break the task up into destinations visited and take each of them one at a time, and that has helped me move more efficiently through all these photos. As of yesterday evening, I have made it as far as Mt. Carmel!
Before we ever visited Israel, and during both the times we were there, I remember hearing over and over that once you have visited Israel you never read the Bible in the same way. I'm finding that to be true. It's as though now you are able to read it in its context, as when you read passages that you visited you now are able to recall exactly what it looked like and can see in your mind's eye the places you are reading about.
Psalm 42:1 is a good example. "As the deer pants for the water, so my soul pants for You, O God." I have read and sung that verse more times than I could even begin to count. But singing about a deer panting for water took on a whole different meaning once I had been to En Gedi. Here in the NC mountains, a deer doesn't have to go far to find a stream of water. So while I might understand that a deer would get thirsty, I couldn't begin to understand just how thirsty a deer would get in the mountains where this verse was written. Mountains that look like this:
That's the Dead Sea in the background. There's water there, but it is not drinkable. Not even for deer.
Think about that next time you read or sing that verse. Exactly how thirsty are you?
At church on Sunday we heard a message from Matthew 14, the passage about Peter walking on the water and then sinking when he took his eyes off Jesus. This took place on the Sea of Galilee. As the pastor began reading the passage, my mind took me immediately to the Sea. This last time when we were there, the day was a little windy and the water was a little rough, so when the pastor read that "the boat was a long distance from the land, battered by the waves, for the wind was contrary," I could picture that exactly.
One of the places I love to visit is the Church of the Anunciation in Nazareth. This church is built over the place where it is believed that the angel Gabriel gave Mary the news that she would give birth to the Son of God. There's a museum there with all sorts of artifacts from the time of Christ, in displays that look like this one:
Do you see those long-necked bottles? They are called tear bottles. In the past, people would collect tears in these bottles as a means of mourning or of respect. Tears were often collected in tear bottles and then buried with the loved one as a sign of love and devotion. Which makes Psalm 56:8, a verse about tears in a bottle, make so much more sense to me.
Today is starting out to be another gray, gloomy day. Maybe I'll get a few of my household tasks done today. Or maybe not! Because I think I'm going to be spending a lot of time on this photo book again today. Sorting through pictures. Remembering. Reflecting.
"You Yourself have recorded my wanderings. Put my tears in Your bottle. Are they not in Your records?" (Psalm 56:8 HCSB)
I spent some time yesterday working on a photo book of our most recent trip to Israel. I've been working on this project for a while now. It's quite a daunting task, since there are thousands of photos to sort through. The sorting alone is time-consuming, but is made even more so because I tend to stop so often for remembering and reflecting. Eventually I decided that I would break the task up into destinations visited and take each of them one at a time, and that has helped me move more efficiently through all these photos. As of yesterday evening, I have made it as far as Mt. Carmel!
Before we ever visited Israel, and during both the times we were there, I remember hearing over and over that once you have visited Israel you never read the Bible in the same way. I'm finding that to be true. It's as though now you are able to read it in its context, as when you read passages that you visited you now are able to recall exactly what it looked like and can see in your mind's eye the places you are reading about.
Psalm 42:1 is a good example. "As the deer pants for the water, so my soul pants for You, O God." I have read and sung that verse more times than I could even begin to count. But singing about a deer panting for water took on a whole different meaning once I had been to En Gedi. Here in the NC mountains, a deer doesn't have to go far to find a stream of water. So while I might understand that a deer would get thirsty, I couldn't begin to understand just how thirsty a deer would get in the mountains where this verse was written. Mountains that look like this:
That's the Dead Sea in the background. There's water there, but it is not drinkable. Not even for deer.
Think about that next time you read or sing that verse. Exactly how thirsty are you?
At church on Sunday we heard a message from Matthew 14, the passage about Peter walking on the water and then sinking when he took his eyes off Jesus. This took place on the Sea of Galilee. As the pastor began reading the passage, my mind took me immediately to the Sea. This last time when we were there, the day was a little windy and the water was a little rough, so when the pastor read that "the boat was a long distance from the land, battered by the waves, for the wind was contrary," I could picture that exactly.
One of the places I love to visit is the Church of the Anunciation in Nazareth. This church is built over the place where it is believed that the angel Gabriel gave Mary the news that she would give birth to the Son of God. There's a museum there with all sorts of artifacts from the time of Christ, in displays that look like this one:
Do you see those long-necked bottles? They are called tear bottles. In the past, people would collect tears in these bottles as a means of mourning or of respect. Tears were often collected in tear bottles and then buried with the loved one as a sign of love and devotion. Which makes Psalm 56:8, a verse about tears in a bottle, make so much more sense to me.
Today is starting out to be another gray, gloomy day. Maybe I'll get a few of my household tasks done today. Or maybe not! Because I think I'm going to be spending a lot of time on this photo book again today. Sorting through pictures. Remembering. Reflecting.
"You Yourself have recorded my wanderings. Put my tears in Your bottle. Are they not in Your records?" (Psalm 56:8 HCSB)
Monday, March 11, 2013
Because Sometimes We Need Reminding
I was reminded this morning by several Facebook posts I read that joy is a choice. I have to confess that I needed that reminder today because, if I can just be honest here, I'm having a really hard time getting going this morning, the Monday morning after "spring forward weekend". I'm feeling more like we sprang forward several hours, or like we skipped a whole night of sleep instead of just that one hour. I'm not sure exactly why I'm dragging so much today, but I am.
Maybe it was the busyness of the weekend. A whirlwind trip to Greensboro for AJ's birthday party. Then we lost that hour of sleep, got up and went to church, had a quick lunch together before we went in opposite directions.....AJ and Brandon went to baseball practice and we headed back home so Al could get packed and ready for a week of meetings at corporate headquarters in Atlanta. It all felt pretty rushed, so maybe that's part of my problem this morning.
Or maybe it's the dreary gray skies I see this morning as I look out the window. The clouds rolling across the sky are really beautiful, but even so, somehow gloomy skies and Monday mornings don't equal an energetic Susan!
Maybe it's just that I really, really hate this whole "spring forward" business. Is it too much to ask that we just keep the clock the same all year round? I really don't care which way we keep it - whether "standard" or "daylight saving" - but I just wish we could pick one or the other and leave it alone!
Even as I list out all the possible reasons I'm dragging this morning, I am remembering those Facebook posts I read a little earlier. Many people, far more than just those I know personally, are dealing with some difficult stuff this morning. Grief. Illness. Financial strain. Just to name a few. And as I read their posts, one in particular, I was reminded this morning that sometimes we have to choose joy. It doesn't just come naturally or automatically, but is an act of the will, a conscious choice. Not because of circumstances, but in spite of circumstances.
This morning I'm thankful to my friends for their Facebook posts and for giving me the reminder I needed. Sometimes we all need reminders, don't we? I'm thankful that the Lord can use things that often seem trivial or insignificant, even Facebook posts and bloggers, to give us the reminders we need. I'm thankful that I have been reminded this morning that even on days like this one, on days that are gloomy and gray and dreary and on days that start very slowly, I have a choice. I can choose to let the weather, or the day of the week, or the time change, dictate my attitude. Or I can choose joy in spite of all that, and in spite of any other circumstances that might drag me down.
So this Monday morning, I choose to stop complaining. I choose to have a positive attitude. I choose to focus on my blessings. I choose joy!
"Do everything without complaining." (Philippians 2:14 NLT)
Maybe it was the busyness of the weekend. A whirlwind trip to Greensboro for AJ's birthday party. Then we lost that hour of sleep, got up and went to church, had a quick lunch together before we went in opposite directions.....AJ and Brandon went to baseball practice and we headed back home so Al could get packed and ready for a week of meetings at corporate headquarters in Atlanta. It all felt pretty rushed, so maybe that's part of my problem this morning.
Or maybe it's the dreary gray skies I see this morning as I look out the window. The clouds rolling across the sky are really beautiful, but even so, somehow gloomy skies and Monday mornings don't equal an energetic Susan!
Maybe it's just that I really, really hate this whole "spring forward" business. Is it too much to ask that we just keep the clock the same all year round? I really don't care which way we keep it - whether "standard" or "daylight saving" - but I just wish we could pick one or the other and leave it alone!
Even as I list out all the possible reasons I'm dragging this morning, I am remembering those Facebook posts I read a little earlier. Many people, far more than just those I know personally, are dealing with some difficult stuff this morning. Grief. Illness. Financial strain. Just to name a few. And as I read their posts, one in particular, I was reminded this morning that sometimes we have to choose joy. It doesn't just come naturally or automatically, but is an act of the will, a conscious choice. Not because of circumstances, but in spite of circumstances.
This morning I'm thankful to my friends for their Facebook posts and for giving me the reminder I needed. Sometimes we all need reminders, don't we? I'm thankful that the Lord can use things that often seem trivial or insignificant, even Facebook posts and bloggers, to give us the reminders we need. I'm thankful that I have been reminded this morning that even on days like this one, on days that are gloomy and gray and dreary and on days that start very slowly, I have a choice. I can choose to let the weather, or the day of the week, or the time change, dictate my attitude. Or I can choose joy in spite of all that, and in spite of any other circumstances that might drag me down.
So this Monday morning, I choose to stop complaining. I choose to have a positive attitude. I choose to focus on my blessings. I choose joy!
"Do everything without complaining." (Philippians 2:14 NLT)
Friday, March 8, 2013
Anticipation!
After days of frigid temperatures and snow, a brighter sky and warmer temperatures have been forecast for the next several days. I am so very excited about that. The snow was beautiful, but I'm ready to move on. I'm anticipating the arrival of spring!
We're on the road again this weekend. One of our grandsons will have a birthday later this month. Easter weekend, actually. Which is not a great weekend to schedule a birthday party for a 7 year old. So his parents decided to celebrate a little early. After checking their calendar and trying to find a time slot that would work amidst all the other activities of life, this is the weekend to celebrate! Which means we're heading over to Greensboro to join in the festivities. I can hardly believe AJ will soon be 7 years old! These years have certainly flown by, and now I am anticipating lots of fun and laughter and good times as we celebrate AJ and his birthday.
I have several dates marked on my calendar for some girlfriend time. A lunch. A shopping excursion. Other girlfriend get-togethers. As the time for each occasion approaches, I get more excited. The anticipation is building!
Even more, as days go by and life becomes more and more tedious, more and more difficult in our world, and as I grow more and more frustrated by politicians and government officials and the celebrity-itis that seems so prevalent in our society, I find myself looking ahead. Looking forward more and more. Anticipating the future. Longing for heaven and home.
What are you anticipating?
"For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ." (Titus 2:11-13 ESV, emphasis mine)
We're on the road again this weekend. One of our grandsons will have a birthday later this month. Easter weekend, actually. Which is not a great weekend to schedule a birthday party for a 7 year old. So his parents decided to celebrate a little early. After checking their calendar and trying to find a time slot that would work amidst all the other activities of life, this is the weekend to celebrate! Which means we're heading over to Greensboro to join in the festivities. I can hardly believe AJ will soon be 7 years old! These years have certainly flown by, and now I am anticipating lots of fun and laughter and good times as we celebrate AJ and his birthday.
I have several dates marked on my calendar for some girlfriend time. A lunch. A shopping excursion. Other girlfriend get-togethers. As the time for each occasion approaches, I get more excited. The anticipation is building!
Even more, as days go by and life becomes more and more tedious, more and more difficult in our world, and as I grow more and more frustrated by politicians and government officials and the celebrity-itis that seems so prevalent in our society, I find myself looking ahead. Looking forward more and more. Anticipating the future. Longing for heaven and home.
What are you anticipating?
"For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ." (Titus 2:11-13 ESV, emphasis mine)
Thursday, March 7, 2013
An Alternate Reality
These days I often find myself feeling as if I am living in some kind of alternate reality, some Twilight Zone episode, where nothing is as it should be. There are news stories of a young child being expelled from school for taking bites out of his poptart so that it (supposedly) looked like a gun. Now seriously, what thinking person believes a child can actually kill somebody with a poptart? I actually thought it looked more like the state of Idaho.
I read a story of a homeschooling family who is being deported back to Germany. They are not in this country illegally, yet our government is going to deport them. Why, you may ask. Because they choose to homeschool their children for religious reasons. Like many people I know. And some you might know. And they left Germany and came here because homeschooling in Germany is illegal. But our government will spend its resources deporting them back to Germany where the children will likely be taken away from their parents. Yet our government does nothing to deport the millions of illegal immigrants that have crossed our borders. Makes no sense to me.
Tours of the White House have been discontinued. Supposedly due to budget cuts because of the sequester. But since the White House tours were run by volunteers, how does that make sense? Just another instance of the government lying to the people.
You just can't make this stuff up. At least I couldn't. Yet all these things, and many more instances just like them, have become part of the fabric of life in these United States. I am really saddened by what we as a society have become. And just astonished that we accept all this as normal. As just the way it is.
On the other hand, there is a sense in which I really do live in an alternate reality. Because, as the old gospel song says, "This world is not my home, I'm just a-passin' through."
In this alternate reality, I am continually astonished.....amazed....by the wonders of God. By His goodness. By His mercy. By His blessings.
I am amazed at the way He answers prayer. I am in awe of how He uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things for His glory.
Yesterday I read a friend's story of her adoption, and was amazed at how our Sovereign God worked all the pieces of her story together.
I'm amazed when I see how well my mother-in-law is doing these days. Just a few months ago her Alzheimer's was so bad that she had to be placed in a memory care facility. She was in very bad condition. These days she is doing so much better. She is no longer aggressive or incoherent. I can't explain it. Yes, she still has Alzheimer's. But she is so much better than she was, and God gets all the credit for that!
As I look out the window on this snowy morning and see the wintry scene before me, I'm amazed at the beauty of these snow-covered mountains. In awe of the Artist who painted this scene.
I'm in awe of the way God answers prayer. Over and over, in the lives of others and in my own life as well, God has provided just what we needed, just when we needed it. I continue to be amazed. And it's all part of the "alternate reality" that is my life.
You dance over me while I am unaware;
You sing all around but I never hear the sound.
Lord I'm amazed by You,
Lord I'm amazed by You,
Lord I'm amazed by You,
And how You love me.
You paint the morning sky with miracles in mind.
My hope will always stand
For You hold me in Your hand.
Lord I'm amazed by You,
Lord I'm amazed by You,
Lord I'm amazed by You,
And how You love me.
How deep, how wide,
How great is Your love for me.
(-Amazed by Jared Anderson)
I read a story of a homeschooling family who is being deported back to Germany. They are not in this country illegally, yet our government is going to deport them. Why, you may ask. Because they choose to homeschool their children for religious reasons. Like many people I know. And some you might know. And they left Germany and came here because homeschooling in Germany is illegal. But our government will spend its resources deporting them back to Germany where the children will likely be taken away from their parents. Yet our government does nothing to deport the millions of illegal immigrants that have crossed our borders. Makes no sense to me.
Tours of the White House have been discontinued. Supposedly due to budget cuts because of the sequester. But since the White House tours were run by volunteers, how does that make sense? Just another instance of the government lying to the people.
You just can't make this stuff up. At least I couldn't. Yet all these things, and many more instances just like them, have become part of the fabric of life in these United States. I am really saddened by what we as a society have become. And just astonished that we accept all this as normal. As just the way it is.
On the other hand, there is a sense in which I really do live in an alternate reality. Because, as the old gospel song says, "This world is not my home, I'm just a-passin' through."
In this alternate reality, I am continually astonished.....amazed....by the wonders of God. By His goodness. By His mercy. By His blessings.
I am amazed at the way He answers prayer. I am in awe of how He uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things for His glory.
Yesterday I read a friend's story of her adoption, and was amazed at how our Sovereign God worked all the pieces of her story together.
I'm amazed when I see how well my mother-in-law is doing these days. Just a few months ago her Alzheimer's was so bad that she had to be placed in a memory care facility. She was in very bad condition. These days she is doing so much better. She is no longer aggressive or incoherent. I can't explain it. Yes, she still has Alzheimer's. But she is so much better than she was, and God gets all the credit for that!
As I look out the window on this snowy morning and see the wintry scene before me, I'm amazed at the beauty of these snow-covered mountains. In awe of the Artist who painted this scene.
I'm in awe of the way God answers prayer. Over and over, in the lives of others and in my own life as well, God has provided just what we needed, just when we needed it. I continue to be amazed. And it's all part of the "alternate reality" that is my life.
You dance over me while I am unaware;
You sing all around but I never hear the sound.
Lord I'm amazed by You,
Lord I'm amazed by You,
Lord I'm amazed by You,
And how You love me.
You paint the morning sky with miracles in mind.
My hope will always stand
For You hold me in Your hand.
Lord I'm amazed by You,
Lord I'm amazed by You,
Lord I'm amazed by You,
And how You love me.
How deep, how wide,
How great is Your love for me.
(-Amazed by Jared Anderson)
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Reminders
It's snowing this morning. Again. Over the course of the last week, we've had several snowy days. More snowy days than not, actually. But this one seems more like the "real deal."
I've been saying for several days now that if we are going to have snow, I wish it would just snow - really snow a lot - and get it over with, than to have day after day where we get a little bit of snow - just enough to be a nuisance and interfere with life, but not really all that much. Last week we had ice on Tuesday, and then Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday we had snow. Not a lot of snow on any of those days. Measurable amounts, but not huge amounts. And because the snow is dry and powdery, and because the wind continuously howls up on this mountain, it mostly just blows away! I'm not sure where it ends up.
In any event, even though the wind is howling yet again this morning, it seems that we might get a bigger snow accumulation today than we have had in recent days. It's all a big reminder that winter isn't through with us yet, no matter how much we might be longing for spring. A big reminder that all my wishing won't change the weather at all, since I'm not in charge of that!
Meanwhile, my phone has died. It worked fine yesterday morning, but yesterday afternoon it quit on me. The battery isn't dead. I know this because the phone still "chirps" its notification tone. It even rang a little while ago, although I couldn't answer it. When I push the button to "wake it up", all I get is a blank screen with a thin green line through it. I have no idea what's wrong with it, since I'm one of the most technologically challenged individuals around. Now that the phone isn't working, I'm reminded just how much I depend on it. But no matter how much I might wish it would just "wake up", and no matter how much I might wish that I could talk or text or check the weather forecast or take a picture or use any of the other apps on the phone, all my wishing won't make it so. Another thing I can't control, since I'm not in charge.
As I logged on to my computer this morning and checked some news headlines, I was (as usual) dismayed, discouraged, irritated, sickened......and that list could go on and on.....by much of what I read. But as with the weather, and with my phone, so it is with the ineptness of government and politicians. As much as I would like things to be different than they are, my wishing will not make it so.
Each of these scenarios serves as a reminder that I'm not in control. But also serves as a reminder that I can - and should - depend completely on the One who is in control. For every situation. And every frustration. And every concern. Because only He can make a difference.
"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice........Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4, 6-7 ESV)
I've been saying for several days now that if we are going to have snow, I wish it would just snow - really snow a lot - and get it over with, than to have day after day where we get a little bit of snow - just enough to be a nuisance and interfere with life, but not really all that much. Last week we had ice on Tuesday, and then Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday we had snow. Not a lot of snow on any of those days. Measurable amounts, but not huge amounts. And because the snow is dry and powdery, and because the wind continuously howls up on this mountain, it mostly just blows away! I'm not sure where it ends up.
In any event, even though the wind is howling yet again this morning, it seems that we might get a bigger snow accumulation today than we have had in recent days. It's all a big reminder that winter isn't through with us yet, no matter how much we might be longing for spring. A big reminder that all my wishing won't change the weather at all, since I'm not in charge of that!
Meanwhile, my phone has died. It worked fine yesterday morning, but yesterday afternoon it quit on me. The battery isn't dead. I know this because the phone still "chirps" its notification tone. It even rang a little while ago, although I couldn't answer it. When I push the button to "wake it up", all I get is a blank screen with a thin green line through it. I have no idea what's wrong with it, since I'm one of the most technologically challenged individuals around. Now that the phone isn't working, I'm reminded just how much I depend on it. But no matter how much I might wish it would just "wake up", and no matter how much I might wish that I could talk or text or check the weather forecast or take a picture or use any of the other apps on the phone, all my wishing won't make it so. Another thing I can't control, since I'm not in charge.
As I logged on to my computer this morning and checked some news headlines, I was (as usual) dismayed, discouraged, irritated, sickened......and that list could go on and on.....by much of what I read. But as with the weather, and with my phone, so it is with the ineptness of government and politicians. As much as I would like things to be different than they are, my wishing will not make it so.
Each of these scenarios serves as a reminder that I'm not in control. But also serves as a reminder that I can - and should - depend completely on the One who is in control. For every situation. And every frustration. And every concern. Because only He can make a difference.
"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice........Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4, 6-7 ESV)
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
A Special Day
Today is a special day. Well, every day is special, but this one is extra-special. It's Brian's birthday. (Brian, for those of you who don't know, is our first-born son). On this day thirty-eight years ago, I gave birth to one of the most beautiful babies I had ever seen! (And yes, I was only three at the time!!!!). That beautiful baby has grown up to be a handsome man, and I am so proud to be his mother.
I would so love to be celebrating with him in person. Since we live hundreds of miles apart, that's just not possible. But I'm celebrating in spirit. And I'm remembering the day of his birth. And his first birthday. And lots of birthdays in between.
We're a lot alike, Brian and I, in a lot of different ways. Many people say he looks like me. I think it's the blue eyes. And the nose. Or maybe it's because we're both vertically challenged (sorry about that, Brian).
We both have a stubborn streak. A pretty wide stubborn streak. We both tend to brood when things are bothering us. And of course, we both love those Gamecocks!!
Beyond that, there's the thing we have in common that really matters. We both love Jesus. And that's the thing that brings me the most joy!
"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth." (3 John 4 ESV)
I would so love to be celebrating with him in person. Since we live hundreds of miles apart, that's just not possible. But I'm celebrating in spirit. And I'm remembering the day of his birth. And his first birthday. And lots of birthdays in between.
We're a lot alike, Brian and I, in a lot of different ways. Many people say he looks like me. I think it's the blue eyes. And the nose. Or maybe it's because we're both vertically challenged (sorry about that, Brian).
We both have a stubborn streak. A pretty wide stubborn streak. We both tend to brood when things are bothering us. And of course, we both love those Gamecocks!!
Beyond that, there's the thing we have in common that really matters. We both love Jesus. And that's the thing that brings me the most joy!
"I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth." (3 John 4 ESV)
Monday, March 4, 2013
Always
I'm confronting a few hard truths about myself this morning.
I am not always kind. Sometimes, but not always.
I am not always loving. Sometimes, but not always.
I am not always patient. Sometimes, but not always.
I am not always gentle. Sometimes, but not always.
I am not always merciful. Sometimes, but not always.
The list could go on, but I think you get the idea. It's probably true of you as well. We are not always what we would like to be. And we excuse that by saying things like "well, I'm only human." And that's true. We are. And therein lies the problem!
Which makes me so very thankful this morning for a loving Heavenly Father.
Who is always kind.
Always loving.
Always patient.
Always gentle.
Always merciful.
And the list could go on.
Certainly those are not the only aspects of His character. He is also righteous. And holy. And just. He is perfect in all His ways. And He is always all of that - and more - all at the same time, all the time.
It's overwhelming, isn't it? And overwhelming that He loves me. And you.
Not because we deserve it. But in spite of the fact that we don't.
When I think about that, I am amazed. Always.
"The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end. They are new every morning; great is thy faithfulness." (Lamentations 3:22-23 ESV)
I am not always kind. Sometimes, but not always.
I am not always loving. Sometimes, but not always.
I am not always patient. Sometimes, but not always.
I am not always gentle. Sometimes, but not always.
I am not always merciful. Sometimes, but not always.
The list could go on, but I think you get the idea. It's probably true of you as well. We are not always what we would like to be. And we excuse that by saying things like "well, I'm only human." And that's true. We are. And therein lies the problem!
Which makes me so very thankful this morning for a loving Heavenly Father.
Who is always kind.
Always loving.
Always patient.
Always gentle.
Always merciful.
And the list could go on.
Certainly those are not the only aspects of His character. He is also righteous. And holy. And just. He is perfect in all His ways. And He is always all of that - and more - all at the same time, all the time.
It's overwhelming, isn't it? And overwhelming that He loves me. And you.
Not because we deserve it. But in spite of the fact that we don't.
When I think about that, I am amazed. Always.
"The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end. They are new every morning; great is thy faithfulness." (Lamentations 3:22-23 ESV)
Friday, March 1, 2013
The Promise of Spring
It's a new month. Time to turn the calendar page. To get a fresh start. And since it's March, to look forward to spring.
Around here, I think spring is quite distant. We're under another "winter weather advisory". We had a little more snow overnight. There have been some flurries again this morning. More snow is expected, although whether or not there is any accumulation remains to be seen.
March winds have definitely arrived. With a vengeance, I might add. For the last two nights, sleep has been difficult due to the howling of the wind. I wonder if this wind sounds something like what the disciples heard as they were waiting for the promised Holy Spirit. We're told in Acts chapter 2 that "there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind." I'm not sure exactly what that wind sounded like, but the wind around here is certainly loud enough to get my attention!
A couple of days ago I saw my first sign of spring. There were beautiful purple and yellow crocuses blooming in the flower bed next to the garage door. There's a retaining wall behind that flower bed, and the afternoon sun makes that a wonderful warm place for the first flowers to bloom.
I should have taken a picture, because sub-freezing temperatures, powerful winds, and snow have pretty much ruined my beautiful crocuses.
I meant to take a picture. Really I did! I just never got around to it. At least I have the memory of those beautiful crocuses to hold on to until spring actually comes. I think it may be a while yet. But it will come. Those crocuses were just a promise that it will come!
Around here, I think spring is quite distant. We're under another "winter weather advisory". We had a little more snow overnight. There have been some flurries again this morning. More snow is expected, although whether or not there is any accumulation remains to be seen.
March winds have definitely arrived. With a vengeance, I might add. For the last two nights, sleep has been difficult due to the howling of the wind. I wonder if this wind sounds something like what the disciples heard as they were waiting for the promised Holy Spirit. We're told in Acts chapter 2 that "there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind." I'm not sure exactly what that wind sounded like, but the wind around here is certainly loud enough to get my attention!
A couple of days ago I saw my first sign of spring. There were beautiful purple and yellow crocuses blooming in the flower bed next to the garage door. There's a retaining wall behind that flower bed, and the afternoon sun makes that a wonderful warm place for the first flowers to bloom.
I should have taken a picture, because sub-freezing temperatures, powerful winds, and snow have pretty much ruined my beautiful crocuses.
I meant to take a picture. Really I did! I just never got around to it. At least I have the memory of those beautiful crocuses to hold on to until spring actually comes. I think it may be a while yet. But it will come. Those crocuses were just a promise that it will come!
"If Winter comes, can Spring be far behind?"
(- Percy Bysshe Shelley)
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