I keep getting phone calls with recorded messages that tell me this is my last chance to adjust my credit card balances with low interest rates. The funny thing is, I have no credit card balances. My husband and I don’t use our credit cards. These calls are deceptive ways to trick the consumer to buy into someone else’s program so that the new program can receive the interest payments.
I have also received calls telling me my car warranty is about to expire, so I need to call back right away if I want to extend my warranty. Here again, another deception since we don’t have warranties on our cars. I am amazed at how people will try to bend over backwards to trick and deceive in order to get the business.
It’s hard to know what’s true anymore. You can’t believe everything you hear or see or read. Unless you really scrutinize things, you can get yourself into big trouble. Just look at the mortgage messes that have arisen these past few months.
Thankfully, the Bible, is truth. It can be scrutinized and checked out and it will always pass the test. And this is so because it is the inspired Word of God. Because of the trustworthiness of the Bible, I have reliable promises that I can stand on. There are no tricks or deceptive ads or false reports. You get a loving God reaching out to a fallen world offering Himself as a sacrifice for those He created.
Looking to hang up on the deception? Trust God’s Word and you will find truth.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Mid-Week Reflection
"When the righteous are in authority,
the people rejoice;
But when a wicked man rules,
the people groan."
Proverbs 29:2
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Pesky Flies
I spent a good portion of my morning yesterday chasing flies. They seemed to come out of nowhere, and the moment I’d get rid of one, another seemed to take its place.
It’s a mystery how they entered the house. The back screen door was in place. The flies could have squeezed through a crack in the door, but the area looked too skinny for any to fit through. All I know is that they were a nuisance and they wasted a lot of my time and energy as I worked hard to get rid of them.
Sin can be pesky like flies. We try to shoo it away, even chase it out of our lives, but then all of a sudden we are confronted with it again and again. Unlike flies that we can capture and permanently get rid of, sin cannot be exterminated through our own labors. Only God can permanently remove the offenses that seem to inundate us. Only He can make us pest free.
But in order for Him to eliminate our sins, we must relinquish them to Him. We must be willing to admit our transgressions, ask for forgiveness, and then submit to His will so we can be remolded and reshaped into the person He has planned for us to be.
Are you letting pesky sins expend your time and energy? Ask the true Exterminator for help. He is the only eradicator you’ll ever need, guaranteed.
It’s a mystery how they entered the house. The back screen door was in place. The flies could have squeezed through a crack in the door, but the area looked too skinny for any to fit through. All I know is that they were a nuisance and they wasted a lot of my time and energy as I worked hard to get rid of them.
Sin can be pesky like flies. We try to shoo it away, even chase it out of our lives, but then all of a sudden we are confronted with it again and again. Unlike flies that we can capture and permanently get rid of, sin cannot be exterminated through our own labors. Only God can permanently remove the offenses that seem to inundate us. Only He can make us pest free.
But in order for Him to eliminate our sins, we must relinquish them to Him. We must be willing to admit our transgressions, ask for forgiveness, and then submit to His will so we can be remolded and reshaped into the person He has planned for us to be.
Are you letting pesky sins expend your time and energy? Ask the true Exterminator for help. He is the only eradicator you’ll ever need, guaranteed.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Signs
A few days ago someone stepped onto our property during the night and stole two signs we had that supported a particular proposition for the upcoming election. Our vandal wanted to remove our influence in the neighborhood; but it only spurred us to speak out more. We have another sign out again, with the foresight now to pull it in each night.
How interesting that the opposition feels they must resort to crime to silence us. Don’t they believe in our democratic process? Perhaps they are afraid they will lose and want to do whatever it takes to keep us quiet.
We must remember our vote is our voice. Through our political process here in America the average citizen can speak out to defend the rights and beliefs he/she holds dear. As Christians we have a duty and a responsibility to stand up for the principles we are to live by. It’s too bad that more Christians don’t share this view. I think our country would be in a far better state if we voted our values and stood for what was important to God.
Stealing signs may slow down a message, but it won’t squelch it. Stand up and speak out, while we are still free to do so.
How interesting that the opposition feels they must resort to crime to silence us. Don’t they believe in our democratic process? Perhaps they are afraid they will lose and want to do whatever it takes to keep us quiet.
We must remember our vote is our voice. Through our political process here in America the average citizen can speak out to defend the rights and beliefs he/she holds dear. As Christians we have a duty and a responsibility to stand up for the principles we are to live by. It’s too bad that more Christians don’t share this view. I think our country would be in a far better state if we voted our values and stood for what was important to God.
Stealing signs may slow down a message, but it won’t squelch it. Stand up and speak out, while we are still free to do so.
Monday, October 27, 2008
The Right Standard
Let’s face it. No matter what we do, we aren’t going to please everyone. There will always be differing opinions and alternate points of view. Election time is a perfect example of this. The person you feel is the best qualified can be the worst choice for someone else.
The problem is we can’t all be right, especially in moralistic views of life. That is why there must be a standard to follow; something concrete that will not sway with an ever changing society. For all people, whether we like it or not, that standard is God’s Word. He will hold us accountable for the message within the Bible that declares that the only way to Heaven is through His Son, Jesus.
Some call this narrow minded. Yes, it is, but it is not human standards that declare it; it is God who says it. You want to argue about it, talk to Him. His Word states in Jeremiah 29:13, “And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.” If you truly want to complain or grumble, take it to God and speak to Him openly and honestly. He will make Himself real to you.
But why, you may ask, do we need to follow God’s standards? Why can’t we do whatever we want? Because life was never meant to revolve around us; it was to revolve around God. He is Lord, He is King, and He is Holy. His standards show His great love for us because when we follow His ways, we benefit. He gives us hope, He gives us life, and He gives us eternity when we trust in Jesus.
We have choices in this world to choose whatever principles we feel is best for us. But only one standard, God’s standard, gives us true hope for tomorrow.
The problem is we can’t all be right, especially in moralistic views of life. That is why there must be a standard to follow; something concrete that will not sway with an ever changing society. For all people, whether we like it or not, that standard is God’s Word. He will hold us accountable for the message within the Bible that declares that the only way to Heaven is through His Son, Jesus.
Some call this narrow minded. Yes, it is, but it is not human standards that declare it; it is God who says it. You want to argue about it, talk to Him. His Word states in Jeremiah 29:13, “And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.” If you truly want to complain or grumble, take it to God and speak to Him openly and honestly. He will make Himself real to you.
But why, you may ask, do we need to follow God’s standards? Why can’t we do whatever we want? Because life was never meant to revolve around us; it was to revolve around God. He is Lord, He is King, and He is Holy. His standards show His great love for us because when we follow His ways, we benefit. He gives us hope, He gives us life, and He gives us eternity when we trust in Jesus.
We have choices in this world to choose whatever principles we feel is best for us. But only one standard, God’s standard, gives us true hope for tomorrow.
Friday, October 24, 2008
A Nudge for November
Do you plan to vote this November? Do you think it matters? Every vote counts, especially in a representative government like we have. WE have a say; and WE have a responsibility to speak for the future of our children. Will they have the freedoms we share now, or will it slowly be stripped away because people refused or neglected to vote when they had the chance?
Does one vote matter? Absolutely! There have been several examples in our nation’s history where one vote determined the outcome of federal elections. The winners owed their victory to one person who chose not to sit by the sidelines, but to participate in the civic process of choosing his representatives.
As a Christian our vote counts even more because we are responsible for speaking up for righteousness. When we choose leaders that will protect our family and freedoms, or when we vote on propositions that uphold life and liberty, we are taking a stand for Godly values and principles. If a Christian will not speak up and speak out for what is right and true, then who truly will?
Your vote can make a difference, but you have to get out and vote!
Does one vote matter? Absolutely! There have been several examples in our nation’s history where one vote determined the outcome of federal elections. The winners owed their victory to one person who chose not to sit by the sidelines, but to participate in the civic process of choosing his representatives.
As a Christian our vote counts even more because we are responsible for speaking up for righteousness. When we choose leaders that will protect our family and freedoms, or when we vote on propositions that uphold life and liberty, we are taking a stand for Godly values and principles. If a Christian will not speak up and speak out for what is right and true, then who truly will?
Your vote can make a difference, but you have to get out and vote!
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Simpler Living
With the uncertainty of our economy, family budgets are tighter than ever. The realization that you can’t spend as wild as you once did looms ever in the forefront of the mind. Certain desirable items are now moved into the luxury category. Eating out is not so common any more. That new outfit may have to wait another paycheck or two.
In many ways we have been spoiled here in the United States. Instant gratification has made us spenders instead of savers and eager beavers instead of cautious consumers. Often we buy beyond our means, confident that we will have the money later on to pay for it. But is this wise? Too many people live paycheck to paycheck. That credit card debt won’t get paid if we get laid off or lose our jobs because of lack of work.
Credit isn’t bad, but too many people fall victim to its enticements, creating an insurmountable debt because of a lack of self-control. We need to look at our needs, not our wants. The wants seem to get us into trouble.
We need to live simpler lives. I’m not saying to go back to the days when you sewed your own clothes and carded your own wool. I’m talking about realizing we can’t (and shouldn’t) have it all. We need to be content with what we have, and we need to pray about the things we need, asking God to allow those things into our lives that will be for our benefit.
I sometimes pray Proverbs 30:7-9, “Two things I request of You (Deprive me not before I die): Remove falsehood and lies far from me; Give me neither poverty nor riches – Feed me with the food allotted to me; lest I be full and deny You, and say, ‘Who is the LORD?’ Or lest I be poor and steal, and profane the name of my God.”
Putting ourselves into God’s hands, especially with our finances, is the wisest thing we can do. He is the best Financial Advisor, Comforter, Provider, Investor, Counselor, and Friend you will ever find. Why don’t you try living His way for a change? You may be surprised at what He can do for you.
In many ways we have been spoiled here in the United States. Instant gratification has made us spenders instead of savers and eager beavers instead of cautious consumers. Often we buy beyond our means, confident that we will have the money later on to pay for it. But is this wise? Too many people live paycheck to paycheck. That credit card debt won’t get paid if we get laid off or lose our jobs because of lack of work.
Credit isn’t bad, but too many people fall victim to its enticements, creating an insurmountable debt because of a lack of self-control. We need to look at our needs, not our wants. The wants seem to get us into trouble.
We need to live simpler lives. I’m not saying to go back to the days when you sewed your own clothes and carded your own wool. I’m talking about realizing we can’t (and shouldn’t) have it all. We need to be content with what we have, and we need to pray about the things we need, asking God to allow those things into our lives that will be for our benefit.
I sometimes pray Proverbs 30:7-9, “Two things I request of You (Deprive me not before I die): Remove falsehood and lies far from me; Give me neither poverty nor riches – Feed me with the food allotted to me; lest I be full and deny You, and say, ‘Who is the LORD?’ Or lest I be poor and steal, and profane the name of my God.”
Putting ourselves into God’s hands, especially with our finances, is the wisest thing we can do. He is the best Financial Advisor, Comforter, Provider, Investor, Counselor, and Friend you will ever find. Why don’t you try living His way for a change? You may be surprised at what He can do for you.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Mid-Week Reflection
"Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD,
And whose hope is the LORD.
For he shall be like a tree
planted by the waters,
Which spreads out its roots
by the river,
And will not fear when heat comes;
But its leaf will be green,
And will not be anxious in
the year of drought,
Nor will cease from yielding fruit."
Jeremiah 17:7-8
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
The Only Hope We Have
The other day I was reading an article about a woman who was in tears when she met one of the Presidential candidates. She even got two hugs from him. In an interview later on, she told the reporter, “He’s the only hope we have!”
How sad! I feel very sorry for this woman who thinks that the only hope she has is in this one man who has yet to fulfill his promises and has never been fully tested. I’d rather put my hope in the Lord.
God is faithful. Unlike what many would have you believe, the Lord hasn’t left the scene despite our tough economic situations. And even if events get worse, He has promised to never leave us or forsake us. God always keeps His word.
Some may ask then, “Why did God allow this economic upheaval to happen?”
Have you ever thought it might be to test our hearts? It was man’s greed that led to the making of bad loans and to the accepting of debt that was beyond people’s means. God didn’t cause the crisis, but just like with any sin, there are consequences to pay. Unfortunately, those consequences are affecting many throughout the world.
So, where is your hope? Is it in man, money, or the Most High? Only One is our true hope. What will you choose?
How sad! I feel very sorry for this woman who thinks that the only hope she has is in this one man who has yet to fulfill his promises and has never been fully tested. I’d rather put my hope in the Lord.
God is faithful. Unlike what many would have you believe, the Lord hasn’t left the scene despite our tough economic situations. And even if events get worse, He has promised to never leave us or forsake us. God always keeps His word.
Some may ask then, “Why did God allow this economic upheaval to happen?”
Have you ever thought it might be to test our hearts? It was man’s greed that led to the making of bad loans and to the accepting of debt that was beyond people’s means. God didn’t cause the crisis, but just like with any sin, there are consequences to pay. Unfortunately, those consequences are affecting many throughout the world.
So, where is your hope? Is it in man, money, or the Most High? Only One is our true hope. What will you choose?
Monday, October 20, 2008
That's the Ticket
We took our son to a video game center for his birthday. He, his siblings, and a friend each got a card worth a certain number of tokens. With those cards they could play all sorts of games, including interactive video games. They all, however, primarily chose the games that gave out tickets that could be redeemed for prizes.
My sons decided to join forces to gather as many tickets as possible. They worked hard to play certain games that paid the most. When it came time to redeem the tickets, they kept pulling out bunches upon bunches from their pockets. They ended up having over 2,500 tickets!
Of course, the prizes they really wanted cost far more than they had, but they still were able to pick up a few items they liked. The boys decided to keep the rest on account to be used at another time.
Most kids don’t realize how much is spent to earn those little prizes they get at the end of their playing. They just have a blast running from one game to the next, building up their points to get something fun. The parents, though, know that those toys and trinkets have cost them far more than their actual worth.
We have a ticket waiting for us that is priceless. Its cost was far more than most people realize, and the amazing thing is that it didn’t cost us one cent. The ticket was the sacrifice paid by a loving God when He came down to earth in the form of a human to die on a cross so that our sins could be forgiven. Only when we accept this ticket (Jesus) can we get a one way pass to Heaven. No ticket, no entry.
Is your ticket of value, or is it only worth a few trinkets? Ask Jesus into your heart and your Heavenly pass is secured for your future.
My sons decided to join forces to gather as many tickets as possible. They worked hard to play certain games that paid the most. When it came time to redeem the tickets, they kept pulling out bunches upon bunches from their pockets. They ended up having over 2,500 tickets!
Of course, the prizes they really wanted cost far more than they had, but they still were able to pick up a few items they liked. The boys decided to keep the rest on account to be used at another time.
Most kids don’t realize how much is spent to earn those little prizes they get at the end of their playing. They just have a blast running from one game to the next, building up their points to get something fun. The parents, though, know that those toys and trinkets have cost them far more than their actual worth.
We have a ticket waiting for us that is priceless. Its cost was far more than most people realize, and the amazing thing is that it didn’t cost us one cent. The ticket was the sacrifice paid by a loving God when He came down to earth in the form of a human to die on a cross so that our sins could be forgiven. Only when we accept this ticket (Jesus) can we get a one way pass to Heaven. No ticket, no entry.
Is your ticket of value, or is it only worth a few trinkets? Ask Jesus into your heart and your Heavenly pass is secured for your future.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Attendance Counts
The schools in our district are trying to encourage perfect attendance. Huge signs with the words “Attendance Counts!” are displayed, prizes are awarded, and students are recognized in order to stress the importance of making it to school every day.
Uninterrupted teaching is the primary reason. A child has a tough time learning if there are multiple absences. Consistency and repetition help encourage the student to achieve success.
How is your attendance when it comes to spending time with God? Are you noticeably absent? Do you only open your Bible to seek out some forgotten Scripture, or is your Bible just another book on the shelf that needs dusting every few days?
If we claim we want a closer relationship with God, then we must daily attend fellowship with Him. This includes prayer and Bible reading. We need constant interaction to keep us accountable and to help us learn more about our awesome Lord. The more time we spend with God, the more we align ourselves with His will.
God doesn’t expect perfect attendance. We won’t be penalized if we forget to pray or skip a day reading His Book. But He does desire an intimacy that requires our time and attention.
Looking to develop your relationship with the Most High? Make your attendance count!
Uninterrupted teaching is the primary reason. A child has a tough time learning if there are multiple absences. Consistency and repetition help encourage the student to achieve success.
How is your attendance when it comes to spending time with God? Are you noticeably absent? Do you only open your Bible to seek out some forgotten Scripture, or is your Bible just another book on the shelf that needs dusting every few days?
If we claim we want a closer relationship with God, then we must daily attend fellowship with Him. This includes prayer and Bible reading. We need constant interaction to keep us accountable and to help us learn more about our awesome Lord. The more time we spend with God, the more we align ourselves with His will.
God doesn’t expect perfect attendance. We won’t be penalized if we forget to pray or skip a day reading His Book. But He does desire an intimacy that requires our time and attention.
Looking to develop your relationship with the Most High? Make your attendance count!
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Mid-Week Reflection
Psalm 117
"Praise the LORD, all you nations;
extol Him, all you peoples.
For great is His love toward us,
and the faithfulness of the LORD
endures forever.
Praise the LORD."
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Opportunities Knock
I love it when the Lord opens up doors of opportunities that I wasn’t expecting. An inquiry led to at least two assignments for a magazine with an additional offer to write about a topic they introduced. How good the Lord is!
Some might think, “But you took the initiative. It was your efforts that opened up the opportunity.”
Yes, but they could have said, “No, we’re not interested at this time.”
I believe God interacts in my life. He is my Lord and my God. Nothing that comes my way is by accident. He guides and directs. He orchestrates and allows. I have the freedom to choose my direction in life, but I know that if I ask Him to lead and I do what is pleasing in His eyes, then the opportunities that open up for me are from Him.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths (NKJV).”
Are you looking for doors of opportunities in your life? Let the Lord lead and see what He opens up for you.
Some might think, “But you took the initiative. It was your efforts that opened up the opportunity.”
Yes, but they could have said, “No, we’re not interested at this time.”
I believe God interacts in my life. He is my Lord and my God. Nothing that comes my way is by accident. He guides and directs. He orchestrates and allows. I have the freedom to choose my direction in life, but I know that if I ask Him to lead and I do what is pleasing in His eyes, then the opportunities that open up for me are from Him.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths (NKJV).”
Are you looking for doors of opportunities in your life? Let the Lord lead and see what He opens up for you.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Way Too Tired
Sometimes a blank piece of paper is very inviting. It gives me an opportunity to express myself, whether in putting down words or drawing pictures. However, there are times when my mind is as blank as the page in front of me and I have no inkling of where to start.
I’m in one of those blank states right now. I’ve been thinking and praying about a good subject to write about, but all I can do is yawn and try to keep my eyes open as I stare at my empty word processing page. You see, I stayed up way too late the night before, folding laundry and trying to watch a show about finance. So my bare page is a result of being far too tired to be productive.
Yet, you may say, I have put something down since you are reading that something at the moment. My argument is that I’m muddling through out of discipline for my craft. It lacks the inspiration I desire when I write for my blog.
So forgive my lack of insight for today. I promise to get a better night’s rest for tomorrow so both you and I can benefit from my hearing God’s word.
I’m in one of those blank states right now. I’ve been thinking and praying about a good subject to write about, but all I can do is yawn and try to keep my eyes open as I stare at my empty word processing page. You see, I stayed up way too late the night before, folding laundry and trying to watch a show about finance. So my bare page is a result of being far too tired to be productive.
Yet, you may say, I have put something down since you are reading that something at the moment. My argument is that I’m muddling through out of discipline for my craft. It lacks the inspiration I desire when I write for my blog.
So forgive my lack of insight for today. I promise to get a better night’s rest for tomorrow so both you and I can benefit from my hearing God’s word.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Beyond the Predictable
It’s almost mid-October and we finally have a bit of cooler weather here in Southern California. We actually had to pull out the extra blankets we had packed away and had to grab a jacket in the morning.
I welcome the change in temperature. The hot days were getting tiresome. It’s now the time to pull out the warmer clothes and bake coffee cakes and pumpkin bread. Of course, you can never fully pack up the summer clothes. It could be 90° for Thanksgiving or 85° for Christmas.
It would be nice to have some accurate predictions for our weather, but I guess that would be impossible. No one but God can know precisely what the weather will bring, although people can get close. I like the days when they forecast sunshine, but we get hail instead. I always keep an umbrella in my car, just in case.
Our economy right now is like Southern California weather: unpredictable. It’s a good thing I don’t take the forecasts too seriously. No matter what projections there are, whether good or bad, they won’t be accurate enough for me to totally trust them. I’d rather trust in God, who has promised to care for His people even in the droughts (tough times).
I love this passage from Jeremiah 16:7-8, “But blessed are those who trust in the LORD and have made the LORD their hope and confidence. They are like trees planted along a riverbank, with roots that reach deep into the water. Such trees are not bothered by the heat or worried by long months of drought. Their leaves stay green, and they go right on producing delicious fruit.”
I welcome the change in temperature. The hot days were getting tiresome. It’s now the time to pull out the warmer clothes and bake coffee cakes and pumpkin bread. Of course, you can never fully pack up the summer clothes. It could be 90° for Thanksgiving or 85° for Christmas.
It would be nice to have some accurate predictions for our weather, but I guess that would be impossible. No one but God can know precisely what the weather will bring, although people can get close. I like the days when they forecast sunshine, but we get hail instead. I always keep an umbrella in my car, just in case.
Our economy right now is like Southern California weather: unpredictable. It’s a good thing I don’t take the forecasts too seriously. No matter what projections there are, whether good or bad, they won’t be accurate enough for me to totally trust them. I’d rather trust in God, who has promised to care for His people even in the droughts (tough times).
I love this passage from Jeremiah 16:7-8, “But blessed are those who trust in the LORD and have made the LORD their hope and confidence. They are like trees planted along a riverbank, with roots that reach deep into the water. Such trees are not bothered by the heat or worried by long months of drought. Their leaves stay green, and they go right on producing delicious fruit.”
Friday, October 10, 2008
To Fear or Not to Fear
With the recent crisis in Wall Street, the panic of many investors has caused stocks to drop dramatically. The solution, according to one financial person interviewed on the radio, was to control the fear, since the system, given time, will make its own corrections.
But how were people to control their fears? Is that where the government’s so called bail-out was to come into play? Was the government the answer to fear?
I am not willing to place my mental security in the hands of a man-made institution. I would rather place myself in the hands of my loving, sovereign, omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent God. He can give me a peace that goes beyond any human understanding. He can bring calm to chaos, tranquility to turmoil, and comfort to confusion.
Psalm 34:4 says, “I sought the LORD, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.”
Want peace in the midst of a crazy and mixed up world? Call out to God and place yourself in His tender loving care.
But how were people to control their fears? Is that where the government’s so called bail-out was to come into play? Was the government the answer to fear?
I am not willing to place my mental security in the hands of a man-made institution. I would rather place myself in the hands of my loving, sovereign, omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent God. He can give me a peace that goes beyond any human understanding. He can bring calm to chaos, tranquility to turmoil, and comfort to confusion.
Psalm 34:4 says, “I sought the LORD, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.”
Want peace in the midst of a crazy and mixed up world? Call out to God and place yourself in His tender loving care.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Having Hope
Is your world falling apart? Are the things you were clinging to for stability (stocks, bonds, real estate investments, savings) vanishing before your eyes? Have you wondered what’s going to happen to you and your family?
If you look at the economic circumstances of our day you can certainly see a dismal future. But there is something I can offer you. I can give you hope. That hope is Jesus Christ.
Jesus is God incarnate. He came down to earth, died on the cross for our sins, and rose from the dead to allow us a way to get to Heaven. Since He is the creator of the universe, He can provide for us even when our minds are screaming, “Impossible!” He knows our needs, and if we will just trust Him, He will make Himself real and take care of the necessities of life.
The Bible is full of God’s provision for His people, especially in the midst of difficulties and impossible situations. Jesus said in Matthew 6:31-32, “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.” It also says in Psalm 33:18-19, “Behold, the eye of the LORD is on those who fear Him, on those who hope in His mercy, to deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine.”
God will provide. Being a Holy and Just God, He cannot deny His Word; therefore, He must and will do as He says. If you trust in Him, He will take care of you in His own way and His own timing. God loves you. He wants to bless you. Trust Him in the hard times and wait to see what amazing things He does.
If you look at the economic circumstances of our day you can certainly see a dismal future. But there is something I can offer you. I can give you hope. That hope is Jesus Christ.
Jesus is God incarnate. He came down to earth, died on the cross for our sins, and rose from the dead to allow us a way to get to Heaven. Since He is the creator of the universe, He can provide for us even when our minds are screaming, “Impossible!” He knows our needs, and if we will just trust Him, He will make Himself real and take care of the necessities of life.
The Bible is full of God’s provision for His people, especially in the midst of difficulties and impossible situations. Jesus said in Matthew 6:31-32, “Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.” It also says in Psalm 33:18-19, “Behold, the eye of the LORD is on those who fear Him, on those who hope in His mercy, to deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine.”
God will provide. Being a Holy and Just God, He cannot deny His Word; therefore, He must and will do as He says. If you trust in Him, He will take care of you in His own way and His own timing. God loves you. He wants to bless you. Trust Him in the hard times and wait to see what amazing things He does.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
If You Can Read This...
I expected the car sticker to say, “If you can read this, you are too close.” Instead it said, “If you can read this, you can thank a teacher.” What a great thought! Sometimes we forget to thank the very ones who have supplied us with the means to function in life. We take many things for granted, not remembering all the building blocks that have led to our development.
I think we can easily do that with God. We forget that He gave us the brain, the breath, and the ability to become someone special. We forget that He blesses constantly, through opportunity, through family and friends, and through His grace. But ultimately, we forget that through Jesus, He came down to earth to die on a cross in order to restore the broken relationship we had with God because of our sins.
If you can read this, don’t forget to thank the One who created you, Who loves you, and Who paid the ultimate price of His life to save you!
I think we can easily do that with God. We forget that He gave us the brain, the breath, and the ability to become someone special. We forget that He blesses constantly, through opportunity, through family and friends, and through His grace. But ultimately, we forget that through Jesus, He came down to earth to die on a cross in order to restore the broken relationship we had with God because of our sins.
If you can read this, don’t forget to thank the One who created you, Who loves you, and Who paid the ultimate price of His life to save you!
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Fickle
Our weather has been very fickle lately. Here it’s supposed to be fall, and we had heat waves last week, rain and cold temps over the weekend, and we’re back to very hot weather again. I can’t stand the inconsistency.
It’s too bad we don’t often recognize our fickleness with God. Sometimes we are completely on fire for Him. Other times we become too busy to pray or serve the Lord with a full heart.
God doesn’t like this inconsistent behavior. In Revelation 3:15-16, the Lord rebuked the church of Laodicea because of their lukewarm attitude. They were neither hot nor cold.
The days are getting tougher; the values of the nations are waning. We have two choices during these tough times. We can be fickle with our faith, or we can be sold out for the Lord. There are no other true choices for the believer.
It’s too bad we don’t often recognize our fickleness with God. Sometimes we are completely on fire for Him. Other times we become too busy to pray or serve the Lord with a full heart.
God doesn’t like this inconsistent behavior. In Revelation 3:15-16, the Lord rebuked the church of Laodicea because of their lukewarm attitude. They were neither hot nor cold.
The days are getting tougher; the values of the nations are waning. We have two choices during these tough times. We can be fickle with our faith, or we can be sold out for the Lord. There are no other true choices for the believer.
Monday, October 6, 2008
Glimpses of Possibilites
Have you ever had glimpses of possibilities? These are what I call God’s little hints of His plans for you. When you are following His will for your life, and when your desire is to love, serve, and please Him, He gives us a tidbit or two to show us what lies ahead.
I get glimpses of possibilities for my writing career. Through the Scriptures He’s given me, I know He has wonderful things planned. He has called me to “Publish His glorious deeds among the nations. Tell everyone about the amazing things He does” (1 Chron. 16:24 NLT). He has already blessed me with a lot of publishing credits, including a book deal. And I’ve only been writing for about 6 years!
What glimpses has God given you? I hope you are thanking and praising Him and giving glory to His name!
I get glimpses of possibilities for my writing career. Through the Scriptures He’s given me, I know He has wonderful things planned. He has called me to “Publish His glorious deeds among the nations. Tell everyone about the amazing things He does” (1 Chron. 16:24 NLT). He has already blessed me with a lot of publishing credits, including a book deal. And I’ve only been writing for about 6 years!
What glimpses has God given you? I hope you are thanking and praising Him and giving glory to His name!
Friday, October 3, 2008
An Issue of Debate
When I was in high school I briefly joined the debate team. We had a big debate scheduled with several other schools, but torrential rains in the area where the event was to be held cancelled our participation. We ended up having a mock debate amongst our club members instead.
The presidential debates in this present day is a far cry from the debates of my youth. We discussed points in a polite, formatted way, sharing our arguments to get our view across to those in attendance. Now we see a flurry of accusations, the strewing of unverified information as fact, and a disrespectful attitude for the opponent.
It's sad that the mudslinging and the finger pointing have to take place. There seems to be less debate and more of a "Survivor's" mentality: out wit, out play, out last.
Satan constantly makes all sorts of accusations against us. He wants to have an "in your face" attitude to get the best of us. Thankfully, when Jesus is our Lord, we have an advocate who will not accept the testimony of Satan, no matter how factual it may be. Because of Jesus' death on the cross, our sins have been wiped clean, so those false accusations are tossed out, never to have any validity in our lives.
Are you being attacked with mudslinging and fingerpointing in your spiritual life? Cling to Jesus. He will only deal with the true facts: that you have been made clean by His sacrifice.
The presidential debates in this present day is a far cry from the debates of my youth. We discussed points in a polite, formatted way, sharing our arguments to get our view across to those in attendance. Now we see a flurry of accusations, the strewing of unverified information as fact, and a disrespectful attitude for the opponent.
It's sad that the mudslinging and the finger pointing have to take place. There seems to be less debate and more of a "Survivor's" mentality: out wit, out play, out last.
Satan constantly makes all sorts of accusations against us. He wants to have an "in your face" attitude to get the best of us. Thankfully, when Jesus is our Lord, we have an advocate who will not accept the testimony of Satan, no matter how factual it may be. Because of Jesus' death on the cross, our sins have been wiped clean, so those false accusations are tossed out, never to have any validity in our lives.
Are you being attacked with mudslinging and fingerpointing in your spiritual life? Cling to Jesus. He will only deal with the true facts: that you have been made clean by His sacrifice.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Rebirth
Nicodemus was an important religious leader in Israel in the days of Jesus. Because of his position, he must have been wise and knowledgeable of the Scriptures. But something was tugging at his heart. This man Jesus, who spoke with such authority, was unlike the other rabbis. His words touched one’s soul.
A man of Nicodemus’ standing, however, had to be careful. There were too many enemies around to been seen with Jesus by day; so Nicodemus came at night, probably to silence the nagging questions about this amazing Man.
Being God Jesus was well aware of who Nicodemus was. But God is not impressed by prestige or position. God looks at the heart. So it’s interesting that Jesus basically tells this very religious man, that his religion wasn’t good enough. Although Nicodemus was a prominent member of his faith, Jesus made it clear that he would not enter the kingdom of God unless he was born again. His physical birth was of no consequence. His knowledge of Scriptures and his good works performing his “church” duties were inadequate. Nicodemus had to have a spiritual rebirth in order to receive eternal life.
How many of you were raised going to a church since birth? Perhaps you know all the books of the Bible and can discuss Jesus’ parables with no problem. You may be very religious, saying your prayers and observing special regimens as required in your place of worship. These actions, though, don’t save you. Accepting Jesus into your heart as your personal Lord and Savior is what saves you. That’s what it means to be born again.
If this rebirth was not important, Jesus would not have put it into His Word. He would have made the works of man an acceptable payment for the forgiveness of sins. But if Jesus is LORD, then you must believe what He says to be true. Why are you resisting what is so clear in Scripture?
If you’ve never asked Jesus into your heart, you need to do so if you wish to enter God’s kingdom. The Bible is God’s authoritative word. Be obedient to what it says.
A man of Nicodemus’ standing, however, had to be careful. There were too many enemies around to been seen with Jesus by day; so Nicodemus came at night, probably to silence the nagging questions about this amazing Man.
Being God Jesus was well aware of who Nicodemus was. But God is not impressed by prestige or position. God looks at the heart. So it’s interesting that Jesus basically tells this very religious man, that his religion wasn’t good enough. Although Nicodemus was a prominent member of his faith, Jesus made it clear that he would not enter the kingdom of God unless he was born again. His physical birth was of no consequence. His knowledge of Scriptures and his good works performing his “church” duties were inadequate. Nicodemus had to have a spiritual rebirth in order to receive eternal life.
How many of you were raised going to a church since birth? Perhaps you know all the books of the Bible and can discuss Jesus’ parables with no problem. You may be very religious, saying your prayers and observing special regimens as required in your place of worship. These actions, though, don’t save you. Accepting Jesus into your heart as your personal Lord and Savior is what saves you. That’s what it means to be born again.
If this rebirth was not important, Jesus would not have put it into His Word. He would have made the works of man an acceptable payment for the forgiveness of sins. But if Jesus is LORD, then you must believe what He says to be true. Why are you resisting what is so clear in Scripture?
If you’ve never asked Jesus into your heart, you need to do so if you wish to enter God’s kingdom. The Bible is God’s authoritative word. Be obedient to what it says.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
The Mouth Speaks
Are you comfortable speaking about the Lord? Does it depend on your audience? We feel less awkward in familiar territory, so it is easier for us to have discussions about our God with fellow believers. Although we are to exhort and encourage one another, we are also supposed to witness to non-believers. We are to share the hope that is within us.
But here comes the discomfort. For some reason many of us feel embarrassed or inadequate to speak to those who have not accepted Christ as their Lord. We feel we will be misinterpreted and labeled as a fanatic or a fool.
Jesus said to “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit…” Matthew 28:19 (NKJV). It was a command, not a suggestion. We cannot ignore this directive. So how do we address this?
First, we need to pray. We must ask God to forgive us for not being obedient to His call. Second, we need to ask God to prepare our hearts. Meditating on His Word is a great way to keep our hearts focused on His will. When our hearts are full of God’s love and His Word, we are more prepared to share our faith, “For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.” Luke 6:45b (NKJV).
Next, we need to ask God to show us who we are to speak to. Sometimes we are supposed to let our actions speak first before an opportune time to open our mouths presents itself. Finally, we need to pray for boldness. The more we pray the more God will stir us to obedience, and the calmer we will be when we are to say something.
Don’t let your uneasiness keep you from sharing God with others. Ask Him to help you to let your mouth speak.
But here comes the discomfort. For some reason many of us feel embarrassed or inadequate to speak to those who have not accepted Christ as their Lord. We feel we will be misinterpreted and labeled as a fanatic or a fool.
Jesus said to “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit…” Matthew 28:19 (NKJV). It was a command, not a suggestion. We cannot ignore this directive. So how do we address this?
First, we need to pray. We must ask God to forgive us for not being obedient to His call. Second, we need to ask God to prepare our hearts. Meditating on His Word is a great way to keep our hearts focused on His will. When our hearts are full of God’s love and His Word, we are more prepared to share our faith, “For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.” Luke 6:45b (NKJV).
Next, we need to ask God to show us who we are to speak to. Sometimes we are supposed to let our actions speak first before an opportune time to open our mouths presents itself. Finally, we need to pray for boldness. The more we pray the more God will stir us to obedience, and the calmer we will be when we are to say something.
Don’t let your uneasiness keep you from sharing God with others. Ask Him to help you to let your mouth speak.
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