08/01/13
OUR FATHER

Scriptures: Luke 11:1 "Lord, teach us to pray."

When Jesus had finished praying, one of His disciples said to Him, "Lord, teach us to pray." The disciples knew that Jesus got results when He talked with the Father and they wanted to know His secret. It was customary in that day and time for famous rabbis to compose special prayers, but the disciples weren't interested in a prayer to recite. Instead, they wanted Jesus to teach them how to pray or how to communicate with God in a personal way like He did. They had witnessed mighty answers to the prayers that Jesus prayed and had come to the conclusion that their words alone had no purpose unless they reached the ears and heart of God. 

As Jesus began this model prayer, which we know as The Lord's Prayer, His first two words were "Our Father." There is a lot of weight that is attached to those first two words. First, the word "our" meant that Jesus was including us with Him. Although Jesus was the only begotten Son of the Father, He wanted us to understand that we have the same relationship to the Father as He does. God is creator of all mankind. Yet, He is only Father to those who have received Jesus as Savior and Lord because His Son's eternal blood flows through their veins. Because of this sacred relationship, Romans 8:17 says that we are "heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ." This means that we possess the same rights and privileges that Jesus has and can approach God as our personal Father.

Second, Jesus said that we are to address the Almighty God as "Father." By doing this, Jesus established that God is a real person, and like our earthly father, our Heavenly Father has real feelings and He loves us. He cares for us and desires to provide for all of our needs. Like most parents, He watches over us constantly, but He never slumbers nor sleeps. He is there all the time. He experiences joy when we are fulfilling His plan and doing those things that please Him. He also grieves over us when we stray down the wrong path, and like the father of the prodigal son, He patiently waits for our return. As our Father, He wants us to love Him and fellowship with Him on a regular basis, not just run to Him every time that we have a problem. God cherishes our honor and adoration for Him. The greatest honor that we can bestow upon God the Father is to believe His words and trust in Him. God has identified Himself by many names throughout the scriptures, but Jesus shared the name that is dearest to God's heart, which is Father. Other religions do not have a personal relationship with their god, nor do they call their god "father." So, recognize your position as God's child when you pray. Your love and tender thoughts as His child will be precious to Him. +++

08/02/13
EXPEDIENT NOT LAWFUL

Scripture: I Corinthians 10:23 "All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient."

Life presents us with many choices. These choices determine our future and create our past. They cause us to become who we are in character and also establish our reputation in the eyes of others. Choices are made because of our hopes and desires, but they also determine our failures. As we follow our choices, they take us down many trails and the options we choose leave behind us a path that others will follow. Sometimes the examples that we provide for others are good but other times we mistakenly lead them down the wrong paths. At the time, our choice may have been acceptable and lawful for us personally because our motives were pure, but they may have caused problems for those within the circle of our influence who may not have known the entire situation. 

The Apostle Paul addressed this issue by saying, "All things are lawful for me, but not all things are expedient." In other words, all things that we could do may not edify or build up those around us. In fact, some things that are lawful in the eyes of God will actually hinder our witness and possibly destroy the faith of those who look to us as examples. It may even hinder God's destiny for our lives. In chapter twenty-five of I Samuel, David was so provoked by an evil man named Nabal that David vowed to destroy Nabal and everything that pertained to him. This act of vengeance would have been lawful for David, but it was not expedient. David was destined to become the King of Israel and this act would have been a major blemish in his character and would have damaged his reputation before others. So David refused to avenge himself or to shed innocent blood in order that this dreadful act would not become an offense in his own heart and also ultimately hinder God's plan for his life.

When we know God and His ways, it is very easy to discern which choices are morally and ethically right and which ones are wrong. Yet, we must remember Paul's words that even though things may be lawful for us, not all things are expedient. If we speak lawful words of truth or speak with the tongues of angels and have not love, we are as a tinkling cymbal. If we prophesy without love, we are nothing. We must follow the pattern of Christ and choose to do those things that edify and give a worthy testimony to the world about us. We are epistles read of all men and the law that we follow should be always governed by the spirit of love, for love is always expedient. +++

A Word In Due Season
2nd Week of August 2013

08/05/13
THE MEASURE OF WEALTH

Scripture: Luke 12:15 "A man's life does not consist in the abundance of things which he possesses."

These words from Jesus remind us that real life and happiness does not depend upon how much stuff we have. We are human and have needs in the natural, but Jesus said we are not to be "anxious and troubled about these things ... for life is more than food, and the body is more than clothing."

Jesus proceeded to tell the story of a man who had an immoderate desire for wealth. He was greedy and desired to have more and more. He kept gathering grain into his storehouse until he had to build other storehouses just to accommodate his wealth simply because he would not share his blessings. He was very secure within himself and measured the wealth of his life by the abundance of his storehouses. When he thought he had fully arrived, he decided to sit back and enjoy life. His words to himself were, "Take your ease, eat, drink, and be merry." God had other plans, however. He came on the scene that very night, requiring the man's life, and all that the man had stored up was passed to someone else. In the Message Bible, Eugene Peterson said, "This is what happens when you fill your barn with Self and not with God."

Jesus was relating to us that a barn full of stuff or a life full of stuff is not necessarily a life that is full. You can't define or measure life by the things that you have or the things that you don't have. Real life is found in Jesus. In John 14:6 Jesus says, "I am life." And the important "stuff of life" is found in our relationship with God, our families and children, health, peace, and happiness. Too many times we take our life and health for granted, and forget to count the true blessings that God has provided for us. Many folks today would give everything they own to have their health, youth, marriage, and family relations restored. Those paralyzed and diseased would trade all of their possessions to be able to live a normal life. The fact remains that the best things in life cannot be purchased or stored up. A quote from an unknown source encourages us with these words:

"Measure wealth not by the things you have,
But by the things you have for which you would not take money." +++

08/06/13
EPISTLES

Scripture: II Corinthians 3:2 "You are our epistle ... known and read of all men."

An epistle is a written message or letter of communication. Paul uses this as an example and tells us that our lives are like written epistles. Even though our lives are not written with ink on tablets or paper, they are human letters that are written by the Spirit of God and are being studied by men. Our families, associates, and those we minister to are reading our lives on a daily basis and the truth of our witness is being manifested when we are the least aware of it. Those about us are closely observing our actions to see if our deeds line up with what we say. It is remarkable when someone takes notice and mentions something good that you did, especially those things that you can't even recall yourself. Yet, it is important to recognize that our negative impressions leave a mark just as well, for all of our life is a letter of communication to the world that chooses to read us.

Often when you purchase a book, the outside cover will have a picture and some brief excerpts that depict the contents of what is on the inside. This part of the book is meant to entice you to purchase and read the book. Sometimes, however, the outside is misleading as it turns out to be more interesting than the entire book itself. This is what happens to our testimony when others look at us from the outside. They see us on Sunday in the choir, teaching Bible Study, and doing all the right things. We convince them that we are great by our outside cover. We entice them into believing in us, but the real proof of our lives come as they read the chapters of our lives and watch us face life's daily challenges and disappointing circumstances. The reality of our responses becomes our true witness.

God wants to work through us because we are His workmanship that He created in His image. He knows that others will be looking at us, and He wants us to be a living communication of His glory. Colossians 1:27 says, "Christ in you, the hope of glory." God is glorified when our lives communicate His character to the world and He is pleased when our inner man lives up to what is represented on the outside cover of our life. We are His epistles and our lives will speak volumes. When people read our lives, the Lord wants them to see His life in our life; His Spirit within our spirit; His peace controlling us; His love flowing through us; His joy flooding our soul; His kindness and patience working in us; and His light shining through us. In other words, He wants us to not only 'talk the talk' but also 'walk the walk' because we will be read and known by all men. +++

08/07/13
OUR MIGHTY FORTRESS

Scripture: Psalms 91:2 "I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in Him I will trust."

In this verse, the psalmist says four things about the Lord.
1) The Lord is his refuge.
2) The Lord is his fortress.
3) The Lord is his God.
4) The Lord can be trusted.

The psalmist had great confidence in God. He not only believed that God could deliver him, but trusted and believed that God would. He felt that he could turn to God in any situation and find help and relief. Like the cities of refuge that provided escape from the avenger in Moses' day, the psalmist depended upon God to be his escape. Not only was God a place for him to run to in the times of trouble and danger, but once there, God was his mighty fortress, providing him with protection and shelter.

Webster's Dictionary defines "fortress" as a "large and permanent military stronghold." It is a city fortified with weapons. Psalms 46:1-3 says that it doesn't matter if the earth is removed and the mountains are cast into the seas. There is nothing to fear because God is our refuge and is present to help us. God is permanent and will never leave us or forsake us. As our refuge and fortress, God provides amazing grace for us when we face difficult situations. The refuge God gives us is so amazing that it causes us to be a wonder to many (Psalms 71:7). Even our own friends can't comprehend how we are able to endure the duress of our season of pain and hardship. Yet, God's grace disallows the adversity in our life to bring us shame and confusion. Instead, He uses it to infuse us with greater strength and understanding.

Review your life for a moment, and remember some of the places where you found God as your refuge and fortress. Look back at the times that you ran to God and He protected you or showed Himself as your provider and met your needs in a way that only He could do. Think about the hard places, the dark valleys, and the dry deserts that you've passed through. And recall the love you experienced from the Gentle Shepherd in the midst of your tears and fears. Then for today's trouble and anxieties, focus upon God. He is there if you will call on Him. God is your refuge and your strength. He is your city of security. See Him as your mighty fortress and let the promise of His deliverance be your peace. He is your God. He can be trusted. +++

08/08/13
THERE IS A SEASON

Scripture: Ecclesiastes 3:1 "To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven."

From the very beginning, God set things in order and caused them to function on a timely basis. It is amazing that we can know in advance the exact time the sun will rise and set each day. We can also count on the various seasons to come to pass each year just as they have for thousands of years. God is very dependable and faithful. And just like His plans for this earth and the heavens that cover it, God has a season and purpose for our lives. No matter how we struggle, our seasons will not come to pass until it is in God's time.

Lester Summerall said, "The greatest blessing God has promised to you in your life or ministry will always be just beyond your grasp as long as you strive for it. Striving delays the anointing. If you are building your ministry - God isn't! If you are ruling your life - God isn't!"

God's anointing rests on His will and His appointed timing. I heard a story once of a minister who felt the call to a foreign field. He sold everything, packed up what he needed, and moved overseas thinking that God was going to take care of him and his family. After struggling through a very hard year with no open doors, he finally asked God what the problem was because he had felt sure that he had heard from God. God answered him with these words, "I did call you to this mission field, but you came a year early." The minister repented of his hasty action, and from that moment on, in God's appointed time, all things began to fall into place. Doors opened and needs were met.

God's timing is just as important as His calling. Throughout the scriptures, you find phrases like "when the fullness of time was come" which indicates that God always has a perfect season and a perfect time for every purpose. Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, "That He hath made everything beautiful in His time." Everything works out right and is beautiful when you put your faith in God's timing. When you "wait on" Him and "wait for" Him, you will be ready when He is ready. Circumstances will line up, and He will order every step to bring about His purpose and His plans for your life. +++

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08/09/13
STRENGTHEN THE WEAK

Scripture: Isaiah 35:3 "Strengthen the weak hands and make firm the feeble knees."

We are instructed to bring cheer to the discouraged and to encourage the fearful of heart to be strong and not to fear. We are to strengthen the weak and feeble ones and tell them that God is coming with vengeance to destroy their enemy and that He will save them. These words of encouragement and our acts of kindness are meant to bring hope and strength to the weakest warrior and give courage to the most fearful heart.

When the enemy came to fight against the Israelites, Moses went to the top of the hill with the same staff in his hands that he had previously used to do mighty miracles. Moses had used the staff to bring several plagues on the Egyptians, to part the Red Sea, and to cause the waters of the sea to swallow up the armies of Pharaoh. He had also used the staff to strike the rock, which brought forth water for the thirsty people. The staff was still working, for the Israelites won the battle as long as Moses was able to hold the rod in the air. But when Moses lowered his hands to rest, the enemy prevailed. When Moses finally became too tired to stand and too weary to hold up the rod any longer, Aaron and Hur came to his rescue. They placed a stone underneath Moses so that he could sit down and then they stood on each side of him and lifted his arms as he continued to hold the rod. Because of this joint venture, the Israelites were able to win the battle.

Aaron and Hur may have thought that Moses could do it all by himself because they had witnessed so many miracles by his hands and Moses may have felt that he had everything under control. Sometimes we are like this. We forget to pray and uphold those whom we think are more spiritual than ourselves because we think that they have it all together. Other times, we think that we are strong enough to stand alone, but the truth is that we all need each other. Even Jesus had His close friends and associates. He had the seventy that He sent out to witness for Him and He had His twelve disciples that stayed near Him as He ministered to the multitudes. Among those twelve, He had Peter, James, and John, the three who were closer to Him and who shared special experiences with Him. Then Jesus had John, the one whom He loved the most. These men ministered to Jesus in special ways while He taught them and made them strong in the faith.

We all need each other. We should never feel that we are beyond helping others or being helped by others, for God never designed man to be alone. He gave us each other so that we could encourage and give strength to one another because life's battles require allies. So let us be humble enough to look to others when we need help and let also look for those that we can help. Let us be ready to strengthen the weak hands and make firm the feeble knees. +++

A Word In Due Season
3rd Week of August 2013

08/12/13
GOD'S CONFIDENCE

Scripture: Job 1:8 "Have you considered My servant Job, there is none like him in the earth?"

When God spoke these words to Satan, He was expressing His full confidence and trust in His servant, Job. God's trust was so strong that He allowed the hedge that was around Job to be lifted, but He also limited Satan's actions against Job. Job went through a lengthy season of loss in every area of his life and his patience was challenged in every way. Yet in the end, Job's steadfast faith prevailed against his hopeless situation. Satan was defeated, God's confidence was justified, and Job received his reward.

Everyone has different issues to face in life. One struggles with finances, another with relationships, some with health, and others with death. For some life itself is a challenge. Hebrew 12:1 tells us that there is a race that is set before each of us. We are not allowed to choose our circumstances or the particular race that we will participate in. Neither can we choose our strengths or weaknesses. God is sovereign and He chooses our battles at His discretion and equips us accordingly. We must patiently endure the challenge, knowing that God will never put more upon us than we can bear. Whoever you are and whatever you are going through, you can be assured that you were God's choice for that testing. He knows your heart and He has faith in you.

God has good plans for you and His thoughts towards you are much higher than you can imagine, but you must run your race with patience. You must discipline yourself and expect to experience hurdles in your path. You cannot allow yourself to be distracted by the glory that you receive or by the pains that you are forced to endure. As you run your race, you are to lay aside every weight and every sin that seeks to burden you down. Jesus is the author and finisher of your faith and He is to be your great example, as He was able to endure the cross and despise the shame. His goal was to defeat Satan and His vision of victory kept Him from giving in to the temptations and evil devises of the devil.

You must consider Jesus and the things that He endured so that you do not become weary and faint in your own mind. Like His thoughts towards Job, God has great confidence in you and He doesn't want you to give up in the middle of the test. You must run your race with patience until you catch the second wind. In the midst of the race, the Holy Spirit of God will fill you with His power, and you will experience the joy of victory and receive great reward. +++

08/13/13
JOY THAT IS FULL

Scripture: I John 1:4 "And these things write we unto you that your joy might be full."

Today we stand on the edge of uncertain days, never knowing what the next news brief will bring. Even though the events are happening far from us, we know that each fiber of news affects all of us in some area. It's as though we sense that we are standing on the edge of eternity. Yet even though we face the truth of these realities, we shouldn't allow a foreboding spirit to overwhelm us, for God is still in control. He has scheduled our life for this time in history and is well able to take care of us. As we stand facing uncertainties, we are to be encouraged, for we are also standing on the edge of glorious miracles and ministries.

The Apostle John was an eyewitness to the life of Jesus. He had seen Jesus, had heard Him speak, and even had an opportunity to touch His nail scared hands. As John wrote this letter while being inspired by the Holy Spirit, he said that he was sharing with us so that our joy might be full. This letter is an intimate word from the Father God to His children who are in the world. God has always been there for His people and He will be there for eternity. God knew that we would be facing these days, but He did not leave us without light. He gave us Jesus, the Light of the World, and He told us to walk in that Light and fellowship with that Light.

It is only as we follow these instructions that we can truly be full of joy. It is true that we may enjoy the pleasures of sin, but those pleasures will only last for a short season (Hebrews 11:25). Grief, sorrow, and heartache will soon follow because sin brings death and destruction. Sin's cup of pleasure is never full. It is always half empty. It lacks fulfillment and never satisfies. However, when we walk in the Light and Fellowship with the Light, who is Jesus, we begin to discern the differences between pleasures and true joy. As we allow Jesus to show us the things in our lives that make Him sad and seek cleansing from all unrighteousness, He fills our cup. And when the Lord fills our cup, it runs over and we experience "joy unspeakable and full of glory" (I Peter 1:8). +++

08/14/13
MYSTERY OF INIQUITY

Scripture: II Thessalonians 2:7 "For the mystery of iniquity does already work."

A mystery is a secret. It's a truth that is closed for the present and can only be opened or comprehended by revelation. There was a mystery going on in Paul's heart and soul that baffled his intelligence. He personified the strife of two natures within himself; the Adamic nature that he was born with and the divine nature, which he received through his spiritual new birth in Christ. He described this struggle in Romans 7:19 as he was moved by the Holy Spirit. He said that he didn't do the good that he wanted to do, but instead he did the evil, which he didn't want to do. In his inner man, he found delight in the law of God but the members of his own body warred against his desire to be obedient to that law.

Does this struggle sound familiar? It is no surprise, for the closer that we get to being in the center of God's will, the harder Satan fights against us. As long as our body is tied to this world there will be an unseen battle raging within us, for we are no different than Jesus, the Apostle Paul, or the other New Testament saints. In all of our lives there lurks an underlying current of evil oppression. It is like an unwanted houseguest or a mouse in the pantry. We don't want it there and we hate to deal with it, but we can't ignore it. Something has to be done to rid it from our presence and we are the ones that must do it with the help of the Holy Spirit. 

God allows nothing in your life that He will not use for your good and for the benefit of His great and wonderful cause. Jesus passed this way before you and He understands your struggles as He was also tempted by the devil, yet He remained without sin. However, He knows that, like the Apostle Paul, you don't always do the things that you want to do and that sometimes you do the very things that you do not want to do. Jesus is touched by your feelings of discouragement as you experience disappointment in yourself. He continually prays that your faith will not fail even though Satan desires to sift you as wheat (Luke 22:31).

God is doing great and mighty things and He wants you to be a part of it. As He enlarges your vision and stretches your borders, He wants to impart a revelation that will help you understand this mystery of iniquity so that you can move forward and fulfill His purposes. He desires that your heart be filled with peace concerning the temptations that you face and realize that these challenges are just part of the battle. God is on your side and He wants you to have victory over sin. Temptations will come, but if you submit yourself to God and resist the devil, the devil will have to flee (James 4:7). +++

08/15/13
GOD REGARDS PRAYER

Scripture: Psalm 102:17 "God will regard the prayer of the destitute, and not despise their prayer."

Psalms 102 is titled "A Prayer of the afflicted, when he is overwhelmed and faints, and pours out his complaint before the Lord." The Message Bible states it another way. It says, "A prayer of one whose life is falling to pieces, and who lets God know just how bad it is." These are extremely long titles, but I suppose that the writer was in such distress that he wanted to make sure that God understood where he was coming from.

The psalmist directed his prayer to God and pleaded for God to listen to him. He said, "Hear my prayer ... Let my cry come before You." He earnestly asked God not to hide His face from him. Have you ever tried to talk to someone who would not look at you? It is apparent that they are not listening when they hide their face from you. The psalmist was experiencing this same feeling in his spirit. He wanted God to face him. He said, "I'm in trouble ... answer me quickly." Then he began to describe his sickness, pain, and frailty. He continued the prayer by discussing his loneliness, rejection, and sorrow. And in verse six, he compared himself to a pelican of the wilderness, an owl of the desert, or a lone sparrow sitting on the housetop. In all of these places he saw himself alone, desolate, and destitute.

In verse nine the psalmist said, "For I have eaten ashes like bread and mingled my drink with tears." He was in a pretty desperate place, but talking with God did something for him. We begin to see him change as he turned his attention towards God. He recognized that God was looking down from His sanctuary in Heaven and beholding the earth. God knew exactly what was happening to him. The psalmist was able to declare that he had found confidence in the sovereignty of an eternal God who never changes. He declared, "But You, O Lord, shall endure for ever" ... "You are the same and Your years have no end" (Vs. 12 & 28).

Like the psalmist, you may feel like your life is falling to pieces. You may see yourself as destitute and be facing what seems like a dim future. You must realize that regardless of how desperate your situation may seem, you have a sovereign God who is not hiding His face from you, nor does He despise your prayers. Be honest with God and tell Him just how bad it is. When you do, God will regard your prayers and give you answers of peace. +++

08/16/13
THE OTHER SIDE OF "IF"

Scripture: John 14:14 "If you will ask anything in My Name, I will do it."

"If" is such a small word yet it holds within itself great potential, for much of what happens to us depends upon our response to this tiny word. The word "if" is like the small hinge that allows a big door to open and shut. Our simple response to God's "if" opens up enormous possibilities, for many promises in the scriptures are conditional upon our acts of obedience. God gives us a binding contract in His Word and says, "If you will, then I will." He then waits for our participation in this agreement and when we act in faith upon His Word, He watches over it to perform it. 

We all need redemption for our souls and God stands on the other side of "if" and declares, "If you shall confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus, and shall believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved" (Romans 10:9). We grope around in darkness searching for light, and God says, "If you will draw out your soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul, then shall your light rise in obscurity, and your darkness be as the noonday" (Isaiah 58:10).

When we need answers to prayer, God is sitting on the other side of "if' in Heaven waiting for us to call out to Him. He says, "If My people, which are called by My Name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from Heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land" (II Chronicles 7:14). On the other side of "if" the Lord listens for our prayers of agreement and promises that, "If two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father, which is in Heaven" (Matthew 18:19). We experience weariness in our labor, but God encourages us with the words "If you faint not, you will reap in due season." We desire to be used by God but He says, "If you purge yourself, you will be a vessel of honor and fit for the Master's use" (II Timothy 2:21). We desperately need forgiveness, and He says, "If we confess our sins, He will be faithful and just to forgive our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (I John 1:9). 

We stand on this side of 'If" with many needs while the Lord is on the other side ready and able to meet those needs. He is waiting for us. If we seek the Lord, we will find Him. If we have faith, we can speak to mountains to be removed. If we serve God, He will honor us. If we love one another, all men shall know that we are His disciples. There is an endless list of what awaits for us on the other side of this challenging word "if." Our help and deliverance comes from God, but we have a large part in the outcome. If we want to see God's Word completed in our life, we must focus not only on the potential blessing that God has stored up for us but also meet the requirements that are needed to receive His promise. +++

A Word In Due Season
4th  Week of August 2013

08/19/13
SILENT YEARS

Scripture: Luke 2:51 "And Jesus went down with them, ... and was subject to them."

There are periods of Jesus' life that we know little about, but we do know that during these silent years He was growing and mighty things were happening within Him. God had a plan and purpose for Jesus and He was being prepared for the destiny that was set before Him. Luke 2:40 declares that as a child, Jesus "grew strong in the Spirit, was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon Him." Luke also said that when Jesus was twelve years old until about the age of thirty, "He increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man" (Luke 2:52). Although these seasons of Jesus' life were unseen, they were very productive. Jesus knew who He was during these years and knew that He must be about His Father's business. Yet, He humbly submitted Himself to those in authority over Him, waited on the timing of God, and allowed the Holy Spirit to prepare Him for the ministry that was set before Him.

When God lives within us, we have purpose, and yet, there may seasons or even years that we see nothing happening in our lives. We may even experience discouragement because our futures look bleak. We know that things are happening within us even though no one else seems to notice our spiritual growth. These silent years of our lives are like the foundation of a home. There is not very much celebration when the foundation is poured and there is no beauty to behold, for it is just gray cement. There is even a long waiting period to allow the cement to dry and set sufficiently. Even later, when the house is finished, the foundation is rarely honored or recognized. Instead, everyone comments on the architecture of the home and the beauty of its furnishings and decor. Even the landscape receives more attention than the foundation. Yet, the home would not be able to stand without being established on a firm and solid base. 

Waiting on God through our seasons of silence should be a journey of faith, and not of fear and frustration. We must so trust God with our lives, that we are able to submit to Him and allow Him to take the time that He needs to establish a strong foundation within our lives. This foundation may not look so beautiful at the time or seem like anything to celebrate. In fact, our life and ministry may just look like gray cement. Yet, the season of the unseen and silent years are the secret to becoming a great vessel in the hands of God. Later, we will discover that this was the time when the most solid part of our being was formed. When we thought nothing was really happening, God, by His Spirit, was filling us with His wisdom and imparting His grace and favor upon us. Without us even knowing it, He was making us strong in the spirit and preparing us for the future. The silent years are the greatest times of increase so we must not allow impatience to control and manipulate our lives. Instead we must devote ourselves entirely to God and be subject to His will so that He can build within us the ability and strength to become what He wants us to be. +++

08/20/13
SILENT YEARS

Scripture: Luke 2:51 "And Jesus went down with them, ... and was subject to them."

There are periods of Jesus' life that we know little about, but we do know that during these silent years He was growing and mighty things were happening within Him. God had a plan and purpose for Jesus and He was being prepared for the destiny that was set before Him. Luke 2:40 declares that as a child, Jesus "grew strong in the Spirit, was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon Him." Luke also said that when Jesus was twelve years old until about the age of thirty, "He increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man" (Luke 2:52). Although these seasons of Jesus' life were unseen, they were very productive. Jesus knew who He was during these years and knew that He must be about His Father's business. Yet, He humbly submitted Himself to those in authority over Him, waited on the timing of God, and allowed the Holy Spirit to prepare Him for the ministry that was set before Him.

When God lives within us, we have purpose, and yet, there may seasons or even years that we see nothing happening in our lives. We may even experience discouragement because our futures look bleak. We know that things are happening within us even though no one else seems to notice our spiritual growth. These silent years of our lives are like the foundation of a home. There is not very much celebration when the foundation is poured and there is no beauty to behold, for it is just gray cement. There is even a long waiting period to allow the cement to dry and set sufficiently. Even later, when the house is finished, the foundation is rarely honored or recognized. Instead, everyone comments on the architecture of the home and the beauty of its furnishings and decor. Even the landscape receives more attention than the foundation. Yet, the home would not be able to stand without being established on a firm and solid base. 

Waiting on God through our seasons of silence should be a journey of faith, and not of fear and frustration. We must so trust God with our lives, that we are able to submit to Him and allow Him to take the time that He needs to establish a strong foundation within our lives. This foundation may not look so beautiful at the time or seem like anything to celebrate. In fact, our life and ministry may just look like gray cement. Yet, the season of the unseen and silent years are the secret to becoming a great vessel in the hands of God. Later, we will discover that this was the time when the most solid part of our being was formed. When we thought nothing was really happening, God, by His Spirit, was filling us with His wisdom and imparting His grace and favor upon us. Without us even knowing it, He was making us strong in the spirit and preparing us for the future. The silent years are the greatest times of increase so we must not allow impatience to control and manipulate our lives. Instead we must devote ourselves entirely to God and be subject to His will so that He can build within us the ability and strength to become what He wants us to be. +++

08/21/13
SHOW ME MY HEART

Scripture: Psalms 139:24 "Point out anything You find in me that makes You sad."

David asked God to search him and point out anything that was displeasing to Him. God's search was not for God's own benefit, for the previous scriptures tell us that God knew everything about David. In fact, He knew more about David than David knew about himself. God's eyes saw David when he was being formed in his mother's womb. God knew every thought that came to David's mind and even knew what he was going to say before he spoke. God also knew where David was every moment, for He was there with him. David told God, "If I go up to Heaven, You are there, and if I make my bed in Hell, You are there." It was impossible for David to escape God's presence.

God's search of David's heart was for David's own benefit. He needed God to search him and show him his soul. Jeremiah 17:9 says, "The heart is deceitful above all things ... Who can know it?" Another translation says, "Who can perceive, understand, or be acquainted with his own heart and mind?" Our heart can easily deceive us. Sometimes we look at others and wonder why they don't change. But like us, they don't see themselves as they really are. In their own minds, they have no faults and are self-deceived.

It is only through the Word of God and the work of the Holy Spirit that we can come to see ourselves as God sees us. Hebrews 4:12-13 tells us that the Word that God speaks is alive and full of power. It is sharper than any two-edged sword. It penetrates, dividing the soul and spirit. It goes into the deepest part of our nature and exposes, analyzes, and judges the very thoughts and purposes of our hearts. As it does, everything about us is naked and exposed before the eyes of God. If we want to be intimate with God, we must be truthful with Him and allow Him to be truthful with us. We must open our hearts to the Holy Spirit and ask Him to search every fiber of our soul, allowing God's light to show us the things that we need to change. We must pray these simple words that David prayed, "Search me, O God, and know my heart! Test my thoughts and point out anything You find in me that makes You sad!" +++

08/22/13
HIS PEACE

Scripture: Philippians 4:7 "And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."

As I reflected on this scripture, I had a mental picture of my understanding traveling down a highway. My understanding was anxious as it tried to make sense of the circumstances that engulfed it. It was in turmoil as it faced making decisions and resolving situations. Then suddenly, I turned my heart and thoughts to God and acknowledged Him in all of my ways. When I did this, God began to direct my uncertain path, and His peace overtook me and passed me up. His peace then went before me, making the crooked way straight. Then as my understanding just simply followed God's Spirit of peace, calmness came to my heart and mind.

One of the most precious items that Jesus left us when He went back to Heaven was His Spirit of peace (John 14:27). It wasn't the same kind of peace that the world had to offer. It was a supernatural peace that transcended and defied reason. His peace is a calm in the midst of the storm, not the absence of the storm. The peace that Jesus held within Him enabled Him to sleep in the midst of a raging storm and His words of "Peace be still" were able to overpower the winds and waves. His peace is not anxious and did not pressure Him into running to Lazarus when news came that he was sick. His peace caused Him to wait on the timing of God and He experienced Lazarus being raised from the dead. His peace also allowed Him to remain silent in the face of accusations and mockery, for Jesus held His peace and answered not a word. His peace was strong enough that it kept Him from calling the angels to deliver Him when He was on the cross.

God's peace in the lives of others was not the absence of danger itself, but a knowledge that God was in control and that He was able to deliver. His peace prevailed in the lion's den for Daniel and also in the furnace of fire for Shadrach, Meshach, and Obednego. In prison, His peace allowed Peter to sleep peacefully between two soldiers when he was facing certain death. The same peace brought joy to Paul and Silas, allowing them to sing songs in the prison at the midnight hour.

The world only offers peace when everything is secure and going great, but God offers a peace that cannot be comprehended. His peace prevails in the time of storms, life threatening or difficult situations, and even death. If you want to experience this supernatural peace that transcends worldly peace, keep your mind stayed on Jesus and trust in Him (Isaiah 26:3). Then, just slow down and allow the peace of God that passes all understanding to overtake you and go before you. +++

08/23/13
HIS SPIRIT WILL RAISE A BANNER

Scripture: Isaiah 59:19 "When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him."

This is a rich promise for those who are in a place of struggle with the enemy. It declares that regardless of how hard the enemy attacks, God is going to be there to raise up a standard, or banner, to let the enemy know that God is on the side of His people. It is like the flag of a country that is raised in a place of battle when its forces have conquered and taken command of the territory. When the Lord lifts up a flag in the spirit, the enemy has to recognize that God has conquered and is in control. The devil has to give up his ground and bow to the presence of the Almighty God.

Several years ago, I faced floodwaters that were coming towards my home. As I prayed about the situation, God gave me this scripture, that when the flood came in, He would raise up a standard against the enemy. I became very excited because for some reason, I thought that I was not going to experience the flood. But twenty inches of water entered my home and brought much destruction. In the aftermath of the storm, I questioned God about His word to me. But He reminded me that He never said that the flood would not come in, but that when it did come in, He would raise up a standard. I had misinterpreted His word to me. However, the Lord did fulfill His word to me and He did raise up a standard against the enemy. At the end of the ordeal, I came out better because of the help that He provided for me. The restoration of my home was better than what my home had been originally. The Lord took away the old and replaced it with the new.

It is easy to misinterpret what is involved in the Christian walk and think that because we have given our life to God, we are exempt from all trouble and strife. In reality, the battle gets worse because we are now working against the devil and not with him. As we face daily battles with the enemy, his main objective is to kill, steal, and destroy. He deceives us into thinking that he has conquered us and tries to convince us that we are in his power and control. He places doubts in our minds and tells us that there is no way out of our situations.

But thank God that when the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord raises up a banner. God lets the enemy know that He is in control by raising a flag that declares, "This far and no further." God raises a banner in the midst of all of our temptations and calls it "A Way of Escape" (I Corinthians 10:13). He warns us that in the world we will face tribulations, but He tells us to be of good cheer and raises up a banner with the words "I Have Overcome the World" (John 16:33). In Psalms 34:19, He tells us that the righteous will suffer many afflictions, but God raises up a standard in front of the enemy that says "The Lord Delivers." Even in the valley of the shadows of death, His Spirit raises a banner and promises "No Fear of Evil" (Psalm 23:4). God never promised there would be no problems, but He did promise solutions! God is there for you so trust in Him to raise up a banner in your situation. +++

A Word In Due Season
5th Week of August 2013

08/26/13
LEARNING TO BE CONTENT

Scripture: Philippians 4:11 "For I have learned to be content with whatever I have."

It is easy to be content when you have plenty and things are going good, but it is another story to be content when nothing is going right for you and your life is falling apart. The Apostle Paul said that he had learned to be content. Learning is a process that only comes through a mentor, personal study or experience. Paul had experienced many victories as he shared the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. Yet, he had also faced many disappointments and suffered times of hardship and lack. But, regardless of the state that he found himself in, Paul had learned the virtue of contentment. He had learned to be content during the times of plenty and he had learned how to be content when he was forced to fast out of necessity. 

Many times we confuse contentment with happiness, but they are not the same. Happiness is contingent upon what is happening around you and when things are going good, happiness abounds. But happiness comes to a sudden halt when adversities come and circumstances change. Contentment, on the other hand, is more stable. It is a knowing that God is in control even though your ship is being tossed about in the midst of the storm. Things may not look good, but contentment trusts God. Contentment reports that "It is well with my soul" even though a loved one is passing through the valley of the shadow of death. And when you are facing the worst of situations, contentment allows you to say as Job said, "Though God slay me, yet will I trust Him." Contentment looks to God when weaknesses challenge and says, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Verse 13). In battle contentment says, "I will not fear, for God is with me." Contentment never dwells on evil. Instead it declares, "Whatever things are honest, lovely, and of good report, I will think on these things" (Verse 8). Contentment doesn't worry when there is lack but says, "God shall supply all of my needs" (Verse 19).

The contentment that Paul had learned left no space in his heart for murmuring or complaining. He declared that God's grace was sufficient and he learned to rejoice and give thanks in all things. He knew that all things were going to work together for good in his life because he loved God and was called according to His purpose. Allow God to work in your heart in this same manner, and like Paul, fix your mind to learn how to be content with whatever you have. As you do, you will find that God will make up the difference. +++

08/27/13
LIBERTY FOR THE BRUISED

Scripture: Luke 4:18 "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because He has anointed me to ... set at liberty those that are bruised."

The word "bruise" has two meanings. A physical bruise is an injury in which the skin is not broken, but the blood vessels underneath are ruptured and are hemorrhaging. The second definition of bruise refers to a psychological injury. The Greek translation of "bruise" in this scripture refers to the second definition. It means the injury of one's feelings, to crush, or to hurt psychologically by pounding into minute fragments. Both of these type of bruises hurt, but most often the second one is most painful.

At some point in your life, you most likely have experienced an emotional injury that has left you feeling totally crushed. Emotional bruising and crushing come through various circumstances such as a death of a loved one, divorce, financial disappointments, or debilitating illness. Adverse circumstances and situations such as these pound and shatter us into minute fragments until we reach the point of hopelessness. Life seems unfair and we are stripped of the desire to go on. Like a physical bruise, our emotions suffer much pain, and long after the injury, this emotional bruising is still visible in our lives. We may try very hard to hide our feelings from others like we try to hide a bad physical bruise, but the tenderness in our hearts, minds, and emotions remain and it can be sensed by others who are close to us.

Bruised emotions are a form of captivity, but there is a release, for Jesus was anointed to set at liberty those who have been injured in this way. Galatians 5:1 says, "Stand fast therefore in the liberty where with Christ has made you free, and don't be entangled again with the yoke of bondage." If you have been bruised emotionally, Jesus came to proclaim liberty to you and to set you free and He wants you to stay free. He opened the door for you to leave your captivity, but you must not allow yourself to be entangled with the yoke of bondage. When you leave your bruised emotions behind, you must not go back to your place of captivity. Obey the scriptures that say, "Think on the things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, of good report, of virtue, or of praise" (Philippians 4:8). In other words, refuse to allow your mind to dwell on the things that bruised and crushed you in the past. Don't keep hitting your bruise. Allow yourself to heal and allow God to set you free. He is able to restore you and put you back together again if you give Him all of the pieces. +++

08/28/13
BOUND IN THE BUNDLE OF LIFE

Scripture: I Samuel 25:29 "Yet a man is risen to pursue you, and to seek your soul: but the soul of my lord shall be bound in the bundle of life with the Lord your God; and the souls of your enemies, shall He sling out ..."

David and his men had faithfully protected Nabal and all of his possessions for some length of time. Yet Nabal refused to provide food for David's men. This angered David to such a degree that he swore that he would kill Nabal and destroy all of his possessions that David and his men had protected. When Nabal's wife, Abigail, heard of David's plan she reminded him that his life was wrapped up in the plans of God. She wisely counseled David not to shed innocent blood because of Nabal's evil actions. She told David that if he were to shed innocent blood to avenge his own hurt, it would bring him grief and be a future offense to his own heart. She told him that he would always look back and regret that because of his own anger, he had moved out of the will of God. Up to this time, there had been no evil in David's heart. All of the battles that David had fought and all the blood that he had shed had been done so for the sake of the Lord and not for his own vengeance.

It was a common practice in those days to put jewelry or coins inside a piece of cloth and bind it at the top for safe keeping. Abigail reminded David that he was like a valuable jewel that God had wrapped up in a bundle. God used Abigail as an instrument to make David aware that the enemy was pursuing and provoking him in order to gain his soul. Nabal's actions had caused David to forget who he was and where he was headed. David's destiny was at stake. He had been chosen by God to be the future King of Israel and was safely hidden and protected in God. David's enemies, however, were victims of God's wrath and were like loose stones that God would sling out to avenge David if David waited on God. David blessed Abigail for her advice and allowed God to fight his battle for him and in doing so he saved his own soul from judgment.

Your battles and your destiny are not the same as David's, yet you face the same enemy who pursues your soul and tries to provoke you to evil. You may walk in love and strive to live in peace with those about you, but many times you are repaid with rejection and abuse. Like the situation with David and Nabal, the devil may work hard to cause you to react in some way to avenge yourself so that he can draw you into temptation and destroy your witness. Satan wants you to fail so that he can fill your heart with grief and cause you to be an offense to your own self and the ministry that God has called you to do. The devil will use others who are like Nabal to do things that will cause you to suddenly forget who you are, where you are headed, and the ultimate purpose of God for your life. The devil will challenge you to trade one moment of revenge for the future and destiny that God has ordained for you. Always remember that God knows what is happening and allow Him to be in control. When you face a provoking spirit such as David did, stay in peace and allow God to avenge you. You are the Lord God's special treasure and He is holding you safely in the bundle of His life. +++

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08/29/13
HOPE AGAINST HOPE

Scripture: Romans 4:18 "Abraham, against hope - believed in hope."

God spoke to Abraham in Genesis 15:5 and told him that his seed would be as the stars of heaven. This seemed an impossible promise in the natural because Abraham was 100 years old and his wife, Sarah, was ninety. Yet Abraham chose to believe God's promise and hoped even though the situation looked hopeless. He refused to limit God to the natural possibilities. Paul, recounting this incident, said that when everything looked hopeless in the natural, Abraham believed anyway; "he hoped against hope."

Abraham refused to consider the frailty of his own body that was a century old or to limit his faith because of what he could not do for himself. Instead, he chose to focus on what God had promised and what God could do. Because Abraham did not waver in unbelief, his faith grew stronger and increased. He waited many years and went through some trying times but God's promises to him eventually were fulfilled. Through it all, he had continued to believe and hope when there was nothing tangible to hold on to.

Many of our life situations find us in this same place, a place of no hope. In the natural, there is no way to fix the problems that we have encountered. There is no medical solution for our healing, the restoration of our relationships is out of reach, and our financial circumstances are out of control. There just seems to be no possible hope. Yet, we are not to consider the negative circumstances or the doubts that plague our minds when they contradict God's Word. Instead, it is the time for our faith to arise and take hold of God's Word, which makes a provision for every need that we will ever experience. In Romans 15:13, Paul said that God could so fill you with joy and peace by the power of His Holy Spirit that you would overflow or just bubble over with hope. If you want to have the Abraham kind of hope that hopes when there is no hope, look to God. He is your hope and He will never fail you. +++

08/30/13
UNDERSTANDING GOD'S WORD

Scripture: Proverbs 1:23 "I will pour out My Spirit unto you, I will make known My words unto you."

Have you ever had difficulty understanding a portion of scripture or felt there was nothing there to capture your interest? However later, you heard someone explain it at great lengths and were amazed with all the details that had passed you by. Their explanations were so rich with information and yet so simple to understand. You may have envied their gift and wondered why you were not able to see the scriptures the way they did. You may have questioned the secret to their profound revelations of God's Word. The answer is simple. It is the work of the Holy Spirit of God. He is the teacher and He is the one who illuminates or gives light to the scripture, and without Him there is no revelation.

Luke 24:45 says, "Then Jesus opened their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures." If our understanding is not opened, the scriptures remain merely parables and stories to us. Jesus opened the disciple's understanding to the scriptures when He was here on Earth, but He told them that when He went away He would send the Holy Spirit to them. He said, "The Holy Spirit will teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance" (John 14:26). It is only as we yield ourselves to be taught by the Holy Spirit that we can understand and comprehend God's Word. We yield ourselves by simply praying and asking God to open our understanding as we read His Word. The Holy Spirit will speak into our hearts as we invite Him to read along with us. 

The Bible was not written to be a great mystery nor meant to lay on the shelf collecting dust. God wants His people to understand what He has said and what He is saying on a daily basis through His written Word. Luke 10:21 tells us that God has hidden things from the worldly wise and intellectuals, but will reveal them to those who trust Him as little children do. If you want to see a profound change in your understanding, pray this prayer that Paul prayed in Ephesians 1:17-18 as you study God's Word and also ask God to speak to you very plainly.

"I pray to the God of my Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of Glory,
that You would grant unto me a spirit of wisdom and revelation.
I pray that You would grant me insights into mysteries
and secrets by opening up my understanding of the scriptures.
I pray that I might receive a deep and intimate knowledge of You,
And that the eyes of my heart would be flooded with light ..." +++