My best friend is putting his mother in a nursing home today. Tough day. He has been amazing and inspiring to watch during the past two years as he has cared for this woman who gave birth to him while Alzheimer’s has taken it’s toll on her body and mind. It’s been a damnable tug-of-war between man and disease for his mother’s mind.
Some would say that putting your parent in a nursing home is a dishonorable thing. He has done everything to provide for her and allow her to stay in her home and enjoy the highest level of independence for as long as possible. Her needs and the care she requires are beyond the families abilities. It’s the right choice, but a painful choice. It’s been a long, hard road; and it will get harder before the destination is reached.
So he’s on my mind today. My heart hurts for him and what today holds. He is a good son. He and his wife—oh, his wife; she is the most wonderful daughter-in-law—they have done everything possible; and still are, to meet this woman’s needs. I hope he doesn’t mind being the subject of these ramblings, but his ordeal is consuming my mind today.
In the Bible, in Proverbs 31 it speaks about “a woman of noble character”. I find myself paraphrasing it today and finding it a fitting description for my friend. He inspires me to be a better son to my own mother.
“A son of noble character who can find? He is worth far more than precious jewels.
His mother has full confidence in him and lacks nothing of value because of him.
He brings her good, not harm, all the days of her life.
He gets up while it is still dark; he provides for his family and portions for his mother’s servant girls.
He sets about his work vigorously; his arms are strong for his tasks.
He sees that his trading is profitable, and his lamp does not go out at night.
He opens his arms to the poor and extends his hands to the needy.
He is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.
He is clothed with strength and dignity; he can laugh at the days to come.
He speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on his tongue.
He watches over the affairs of his household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
His children arise and call him blessed; his mother also, and she praises him: "Many women have good sons, but you surpass them all."
A man who fears the LORD is to be praised.
~ Father, help me to honor my parents and provide for them sacrificially as a way of honoring you. Amen.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
May 30: Humor and Grace
Verse to Ponder today:
…We have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. (Romans 5:1-2)
My friend Jim was taken to the hospital last night. It’s his back…again. He is in a lot of pain. Jim is known for his sense of humor. He is the class clown; always ready with his quick wit, broad smile and mischievous twinkling eyes to bring the room to tears and sore bellies with all the laughter he elicits.
In spite of the back spasms and off-the-charts pain he still cracks jokes with the doctors and nurses. His self-deprecating humor is disarming and endearing. Humor and grace. Jim is full of humor and grace. A unique combination of those qualities is rare and special. To have more of both in my own life and treatment of others is a worthy goal. Humor and grace will get you a long way down the road.
~ Father, thank you for the way you gift your children with special qualities—all the good ones are a reflection of your character. Thank you for the way you bless me through others’ gifts. Amen.
…We have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. (Romans 5:1-2)
My friend Jim was taken to the hospital last night. It’s his back…again. He is in a lot of pain. Jim is known for his sense of humor. He is the class clown; always ready with his quick wit, broad smile and mischievous twinkling eyes to bring the room to tears and sore bellies with all the laughter he elicits.
In spite of the back spasms and off-the-charts pain he still cracks jokes with the doctors and nurses. His self-deprecating humor is disarming and endearing. Humor and grace. Jim is full of humor and grace. A unique combination of those qualities is rare and special. To have more of both in my own life and treatment of others is a worthy goal. Humor and grace will get you a long way down the road.
~ Father, thank you for the way you gift your children with special qualities—all the good ones are a reflection of your character. Thank you for the way you bless me through others’ gifts. Amen.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
May 29: Back in Action
Sunday morning, as I was preparing to go to church, my back went out. The pain was terrible all day Sunday and through the night, and all day Monday. I had a lady hug me at church, catching me off-balancing, nearly causing both of us to take a tumble. I spent some time Monday in a swimming pool in hopes of finding relief from the pain and stiffness, all to no avail.
So here I am sitting in my lazy boy, having just finished watching a debate on “The O’Reilly Factor” between Dr. Ken Hamm and Dr. Lawrence Krauss. Dr. Hamm’s organization, “Answers in Genesis” opened their Creation Museum today and the two men were debating Biblical creation and evolution. That’s when it happened—the big sneeze—at which time I both felt and simultaneously heard a “pop” in my lower back.
I am now pain free, have full range of motion, and feeling great. Just hoping things don’t pop out of place again anytime soon. Oh, the joys of middle-age! I am reminded that my body is wearing out and as the country crooner Toby Keith sings, “I’m not as good as I once was.” Once we get past our mid-twenties or so we are all dying in slow motion.
A sobering thought, but one I won’t lose sleep over—not tonight. I plan on sleeping like a baby and making up for what I missed last night. It just reminds me of what the Bible says about the human predicament in a fallen world: "All men are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field. The grass withers and the flowers fall, because the breath of the LORD blows on them. Surely the people are grass. The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever.” (Isaiah 40:6-8)
But there is encouragement, too. For those who are in Christ there is the hope of what is to come:
“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:16-18)
The creationists and evolutionists will continue to debate. The Bible stands forever and gives the answers to our origin and destination. Life is not just meaningless, cyclical repetition. History is headed somewhere. The question of one’s destiny is worth losing sleep over. How’s your relationship with your Creator? Why not re-connect with Him now, through prayer and let Him renew you inwardly today?
~ Father, thank you for reminding me of both my mortality and “eternal glory.” Help me to fix my eyes on the unseen eternal and not be distracted by the visible and temporary. Focus me on what matters most. Amen.
So here I am sitting in my lazy boy, having just finished watching a debate on “The O’Reilly Factor” between Dr. Ken Hamm and Dr. Lawrence Krauss. Dr. Hamm’s organization, “Answers in Genesis” opened their Creation Museum today and the two men were debating Biblical creation and evolution. That’s when it happened—the big sneeze—at which time I both felt and simultaneously heard a “pop” in my lower back.
I am now pain free, have full range of motion, and feeling great. Just hoping things don’t pop out of place again anytime soon. Oh, the joys of middle-age! I am reminded that my body is wearing out and as the country crooner Toby Keith sings, “I’m not as good as I once was.” Once we get past our mid-twenties or so we are all dying in slow motion.
A sobering thought, but one I won’t lose sleep over—not tonight. I plan on sleeping like a baby and making up for what I missed last night. It just reminds me of what the Bible says about the human predicament in a fallen world: "All men are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field. The grass withers and the flowers fall, because the breath of the LORD blows on them. Surely the people are grass. The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever.” (Isaiah 40:6-8)
But there is encouragement, too. For those who are in Christ there is the hope of what is to come:
“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:16-18)
The creationists and evolutionists will continue to debate. The Bible stands forever and gives the answers to our origin and destination. Life is not just meaningless, cyclical repetition. History is headed somewhere. The question of one’s destiny is worth losing sleep over. How’s your relationship with your Creator? Why not re-connect with Him now, through prayer and let Him renew you inwardly today?
~ Father, thank you for reminding me of both my mortality and “eternal glory.” Help me to fix my eyes on the unseen eternal and not be distracted by the visible and temporary. Focus me on what matters most. Amen.
Sunday, May 27, 2007
May 28: In Memory
Today is Memorial Day—set aside in this nation for those who gave their lives in military duty to this country. It originally began to honor those who lost their lives during the Civil War, then expanded to include those whose sacrifices helped secure victory during World War 1. Now it includes all those who have “made the ultimate sacrifice” and given their lives in service to the United States of America.
I realize that not everyone reading this is an American. I am—and proud to be such. I am appreciative and grateful to our men and women in uniform. I have had a family member killed by an IED in Iraq. Other family members have served this great nation through the years. Today is their day. We are indebted beyond measure to our military personnel.
Today I will hang out with friends and family, grill some delicious food and take a dip in the pool. All the while there are men and women serving this country, separated from loved ones, living with the daily threat of death. I feel guilty for enjoying today's pleasures at their expense. Some will rationalize that they chose their career path. Yes, they did. May God bless them for their choice.
I don’t know where you stand politically, what your feeling are about the war in Iraq or the fight on terrorism. This is not intended to be a political statement at all. I’m simply asking you who are Americans to take a moment today and remember our troops. Find a way to show gratitude and say “thank you” for those who serve us in this way. Say a prayer for those who serve abroad. Pray for their safety and their families and their quick return home.
I also realize that God is not an American and certainly not tied to our military or political agenda. But I also recognize that God IS, and that He has blessed us. While I’m praying for my country I also want to pray for all the people whom God loves, from all nations. I want to pray not only for my leaders but the leaders from other countries as well. I pray that God’s will would be known and His wisdom would prevail.
You are forgiving and good, O Lord,
abounding in love to all who call to you.
Hear my prayer, O LORD;
listen to my cry for mercy.
In the day of my trouble I will call to you,
for you will answer me.
Among the gods there is none like you, O Lord;
no deeds can compare with yours.
All the nations you have made
will come and worship before you, O Lord;
they will bring glory to your name.
For you are great and do marvelous deeds;
you alone are God. Psalms 86:5-10
~ Father, help me to be grateful for those who sacrifice on my behalf. Lord, make yourself known among the nations. Amen.
I realize that not everyone reading this is an American. I am—and proud to be such. I am appreciative and grateful to our men and women in uniform. I have had a family member killed by an IED in Iraq. Other family members have served this great nation through the years. Today is their day. We are indebted beyond measure to our military personnel.
Today I will hang out with friends and family, grill some delicious food and take a dip in the pool. All the while there are men and women serving this country, separated from loved ones, living with the daily threat of death. I feel guilty for enjoying today's pleasures at their expense. Some will rationalize that they chose their career path. Yes, they did. May God bless them for their choice.
I don’t know where you stand politically, what your feeling are about the war in Iraq or the fight on terrorism. This is not intended to be a political statement at all. I’m simply asking you who are Americans to take a moment today and remember our troops. Find a way to show gratitude and say “thank you” for those who serve us in this way. Say a prayer for those who serve abroad. Pray for their safety and their families and their quick return home.
I also realize that God is not an American and certainly not tied to our military or political agenda. But I also recognize that God IS, and that He has blessed us. While I’m praying for my country I also want to pray for all the people whom God loves, from all nations. I want to pray not only for my leaders but the leaders from other countries as well. I pray that God’s will would be known and His wisdom would prevail.
You are forgiving and good, O Lord,
abounding in love to all who call to you.
Hear my prayer, O LORD;
listen to my cry for mercy.
In the day of my trouble I will call to you,
for you will answer me.
Among the gods there is none like you, O Lord;
no deeds can compare with yours.
All the nations you have made
will come and worship before you, O Lord;
they will bring glory to your name.
For you are great and do marvelous deeds;
you alone are God. Psalms 86:5-10
~ Father, help me to be grateful for those who sacrifice on my behalf. Lord, make yourself known among the nations. Amen.
Friday, May 25, 2007
May 25: Title Addicts
Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples: "The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat. So you must obey them and do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. They tie up heavy loads and put them on men's shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them. "Everything they do is done for men to see: They make their phylacteries wide and the tassels on their garments long; they love the place of honor at banquets and the most important seats in the synagogues; they love to be greeted in the marketplaces and to have men call them 'Rabbi.' (Matthew 23:1-7)
I’m not much for titles. Or pedestals. I have a friend who possesses certificates and degrees, and who enjoys having titles before his name and letters behind it. He demands that people refer to him as “reverend” or “doctor”—he’s earned it. I can’t help thinking of the words of Jesus. He was one who wasn’t much into titles and pedestals. He preferred humility and service. His favorite title, one He wore with honor, was “Son of Man” which was incredibly humble considering whose son He really is.
It’s sad. Our egos have such gargantuan appetites. "Lord, keep me focused on others and not on myself. Help me to feed souls and not my own ego. Help me find my security in you so my insecurities don’t drive my actions. Amen."
I’m not much for titles. Or pedestals. I have a friend who possesses certificates and degrees, and who enjoys having titles before his name and letters behind it. He demands that people refer to him as “reverend” or “doctor”—he’s earned it. I can’t help thinking of the words of Jesus. He was one who wasn’t much into titles and pedestals. He preferred humility and service. His favorite title, one He wore with honor, was “Son of Man” which was incredibly humble considering whose son He really is.
It’s sad. Our egos have such gargantuan appetites. "Lord, keep me focused on others and not on myself. Help me to feed souls and not my own ego. Help me find my security in you so my insecurities don’t drive my actions. Amen."
Thursday, May 24, 2007
May 24: Hang In There
Jesus, in talking to His disciples about the end of times, warned of persecution and wars and natural catastrophe. And then He said, “Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved.” (Matthew 24:12-13)
Notice He didn’t say, “Whoever has the most ‘stuff’ will be saved.” Or “Whoever is most popular or famous will be saved.” The one who endures will be saved. The one who doesn’t quit will be saved. Woody Allen says, “Eighty percent of success is just showing up.”
Jesus encourages us not to quit, not to ‘throw in the towel’, not to lose heart and stop. There may be times when you feel like giving up—on your job, your marriage, on life, on your faith. Maybe today is one of those days when you feel like saying, “Enough! I can’t do this anymore.”
Feel Jesus slide in next to you; hear Him whisper encouragement as you glance at His nail-scarred hands, “Don’t quit. You can do this. You’re almost there. You can go the distance. You can finish this thing. Don’t give up—victory is closer than you think. Don’t stop.”
Rely on Jesus for counsel and encouragement and you can say with the Apostle Paul, “I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13) “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body." (2 Corinthians 4:8-10)
I love the scene in the moving “Facing the Giants” where the blind-folded football player is challenged by the coach to do the “death crawl” on his hands and feet (no knees touching the ground) with another player on his back. “Just one more step. You can do it. Just a few more yards.” What the player thought was a 50 yard “crawl” turned out to be the length of the entire field.
"Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith." (Hebrews 12:1-2) You can’t see your finish line, but you can endure more than you ever imagined. Hang in there. Fix your eyes on Jesus. Go the distance.
~ Father, empower me today. Help me to fix my eyes on Jesus and give me a spirit of endurance. Amen.
Notice He didn’t say, “Whoever has the most ‘stuff’ will be saved.” Or “Whoever is most popular or famous will be saved.” The one who endures will be saved. The one who doesn’t quit will be saved. Woody Allen says, “Eighty percent of success is just showing up.”
Jesus encourages us not to quit, not to ‘throw in the towel’, not to lose heart and stop. There may be times when you feel like giving up—on your job, your marriage, on life, on your faith. Maybe today is one of those days when you feel like saying, “Enough! I can’t do this anymore.”
Feel Jesus slide in next to you; hear Him whisper encouragement as you glance at His nail-scarred hands, “Don’t quit. You can do this. You’re almost there. You can go the distance. You can finish this thing. Don’t give up—victory is closer than you think. Don’t stop.”
Rely on Jesus for counsel and encouragement and you can say with the Apostle Paul, “I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13) “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body." (2 Corinthians 4:8-10)
I love the scene in the moving “Facing the Giants” where the blind-folded football player is challenged by the coach to do the “death crawl” on his hands and feet (no knees touching the ground) with another player on his back. “Just one more step. You can do it. Just a few more yards.” What the player thought was a 50 yard “crawl” turned out to be the length of the entire field.
"Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith." (Hebrews 12:1-2) You can’t see your finish line, but you can endure more than you ever imagined. Hang in there. Fix your eyes on Jesus. Go the distance.
~ Father, empower me today. Help me to fix my eyes on Jesus and give me a spirit of endurance. Amen.
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
May 22: Eternal Longings
"God has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end." (Ecclesiastes 3:11)
God has set eternity in people’s hearts. There is this longing for eternity, both a quantity and quality of life with God, placed in every human heart by the hand of God.
"Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." (2 Corinthians 4:16-18)
He has also set eternity in the hearts of men;
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16) Eternal life is not only about the here-after, but more importantly it is a full and satisfying life, lived with God and for God, in the here-and-now.
God loves everyone but heaven is for those who love Him back! This grave is often referred to as “one’s final resting place”. Don’t believe it. This is not the end of the road, but a bend in the road.
"Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope… we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage each other with these words." (1 Thessalonians 4:13, 18)
In Jesus we have hope:
The hope that this is not the final chapter,
The hope that God’s promise is true that He has a home prepared for us,
The hope that nothing can separate us from the love of God,
These promises can take the sting out of death.
He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; and in Christ our longings for eternity find satisfaction.
~ Father, thank you for taking care of my everyday needs and my eternal needs. One day you will satisfy this longing for eternal things that you’ve put within my heart. Amen.
God has set eternity in people’s hearts. There is this longing for eternity, both a quantity and quality of life with God, placed in every human heart by the hand of God.
"Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." (2 Corinthians 4:16-18)
He has also set eternity in the hearts of men;
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16) Eternal life is not only about the here-after, but more importantly it is a full and satisfying life, lived with God and for God, in the here-and-now.
God loves everyone but heaven is for those who love Him back! This grave is often referred to as “one’s final resting place”. Don’t believe it. This is not the end of the road, but a bend in the road.
"Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope… we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage each other with these words." (1 Thessalonians 4:13, 18)
In Jesus we have hope:
The hope that this is not the final chapter,
The hope that God’s promise is true that He has a home prepared for us,
The hope that nothing can separate us from the love of God,
These promises can take the sting out of death.
He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; and in Christ our longings for eternity find satisfaction.
~ Father, thank you for taking care of my everyday needs and my eternal needs. One day you will satisfy this longing for eternal things that you’ve put within my heart. Amen.
Monday, May 21, 2007
May 21: Protecting Your Marriage
Married couples need to nurture romance. It’s not about focusing on how to get something from your spouse, but focusing on your unique roll in his/her life: you are the only legitimate source of romance in your spouse’s life.
In the Bible, the Song of Solomon is a beautiful picture of a lifelong relationship. At their first meeting he thought she was the most beautiful thing he’d ever seen. She didn’t see herself quite the same way:
“Do not stare at me because I am dark, because I am darkened by the sun. My mother's sons were angry with me and made me take care of the vineyards; my own vineyard I have neglected.” (Song of Songs 1:6)
Throughout the book, the vineyard is a metaphor for their relationship. In the second chapter she instructs: “Catch for us the foxes, the little foxes that ruin the vineyards, our vineyards that are in bloom.” (v. 15)
By nurturing romance you protect your relationship from potential predators. What are some of the “little foxes” that get in a kill a marriage? One thing we must guard against is unrealistic and/or unspoken expectations.
Check your expectations. If your spouse is continually disappointing you, it may not be his or her actions; it may be your expectations. Unspoken rules: “Husbands should always …” and “Wives should always ….” There is nothing wrong with goals and objectives, but it isn’t fair to create unspoken expectations for your spouse and then get annoyed when they aren’t met. Stop assuming and start communicating.
By nurturing romance you protect your relationship from potential predators. What is one thing you can do today to rekindle the romance with your spouse?
~ Father, give us wisdom and vigilance in protecting our marriage. Amen.
In the Bible, the Song of Solomon is a beautiful picture of a lifelong relationship. At their first meeting he thought she was the most beautiful thing he’d ever seen. She didn’t see herself quite the same way:
“Do not stare at me because I am dark, because I am darkened by the sun. My mother's sons were angry with me and made me take care of the vineyards; my own vineyard I have neglected.” (Song of Songs 1:6)
Throughout the book, the vineyard is a metaphor for their relationship. In the second chapter she instructs: “Catch for us the foxes, the little foxes that ruin the vineyards, our vineyards that are in bloom.” (v. 15)
By nurturing romance you protect your relationship from potential predators. What are some of the “little foxes” that get in a kill a marriage? One thing we must guard against is unrealistic and/or unspoken expectations.
Check your expectations. If your spouse is continually disappointing you, it may not be his or her actions; it may be your expectations. Unspoken rules: “Husbands should always …” and “Wives should always ….” There is nothing wrong with goals and objectives, but it isn’t fair to create unspoken expectations for your spouse and then get annoyed when they aren’t met. Stop assuming and start communicating.
By nurturing romance you protect your relationship from potential predators. What is one thing you can do today to rekindle the romance with your spouse?
~ Father, give us wisdom and vigilance in protecting our marriage. Amen.
Saturday, May 19, 2007
May 19: Three’s Company
The jazz was smooth, the food delicious and the company to die for. A recent (and rare) evening out with my bride of 23 years and no kids. It was wonderful. We’re the typical couple with children still at home, that are so busy with jobs, chores and taxi service that we rarely have time for each other.
We miss (but still remember) those days when we used to date; those romantic encounters that we longed and lived for. But here I am, alone with the woman I love, feeling guilty because by saying ‘yes’ to this I’m saying ‘no’ to other obligations and responsibilities that need my attention. I think I’m ‘supposed’ to be somewhere else, fulfilling my ‘duties’ as a leader.
Then the thought crosses my mind that there are three of us here. From the very beginning of this journey together we stood before God and made promises not only to each other but to our Creator. My friend, Ron, says it takes three to make his marriage work—him, his wife, and their therapist. My wife and I also feel it takes three—a husband, a wife and God.
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)
So there’s no other place I’d rather be, or need to be, than right here in this moment with the love of my life. We laughed and dreamed like we haven’t done in ages. I realized how much I’ve missed her and promised to myself to make time together, just the two of us, more of a priority.
Time will tell. Old habits die hard and the demands of middle age are ever-mounting. But I love my bride, and I love romancing her.
I know our spouses deserve (and desire) more of our best—the best of your time, attention and energy. Your spouse (and mine) are worthy of more than the “leftovers” of our lives.
“Come with me, my bride. You have stolen my heart, my bride; you have stolen my heart with one glance of your eyes…How delightful is your love!” (Song of Solomon 4:8-10)
~ Father, help me treasure this one you gave me as the priceless treasure that she is. Amen.
We miss (but still remember) those days when we used to date; those romantic encounters that we longed and lived for. But here I am, alone with the woman I love, feeling guilty because by saying ‘yes’ to this I’m saying ‘no’ to other obligations and responsibilities that need my attention. I think I’m ‘supposed’ to be somewhere else, fulfilling my ‘duties’ as a leader.
Then the thought crosses my mind that there are three of us here. From the very beginning of this journey together we stood before God and made promises not only to each other but to our Creator. My friend, Ron, says it takes three to make his marriage work—him, his wife, and their therapist. My wife and I also feel it takes three—a husband, a wife and God.
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)
So there’s no other place I’d rather be, or need to be, than right here in this moment with the love of my life. We laughed and dreamed like we haven’t done in ages. I realized how much I’ve missed her and promised to myself to make time together, just the two of us, more of a priority.
Time will tell. Old habits die hard and the demands of middle age are ever-mounting. But I love my bride, and I love romancing her.
I know our spouses deserve (and desire) more of our best—the best of your time, attention and energy. Your spouse (and mine) are worthy of more than the “leftovers” of our lives.
“Come with me, my bride. You have stolen my heart, my bride; you have stolen my heart with one glance of your eyes…How delightful is your love!” (Song of Solomon 4:8-10)
~ Father, help me treasure this one you gave me as the priceless treasure that she is. Amen.
Friday, May 18, 2007
May 18: Winsome Witnesses
Jesus was liked by people who were nothing like him. As Christ-followers we should be winsome and attractive representatives of Jesus. Jesus had a way of drawing to himself those people that the religious leaders of the day kept at arm’s length.
I just met someone who, except that we share the same first name, is nothing like me. James prides himself on being a highly opinionated (okay, we have that in common), non-religious, liberal, homosexual living in the Bible-belt (okay, we’re both guys who live in the Bible-belt).
James isn’t a Christian and doesn’t have much use for those who are, which is what makes our friendship so unusual. To give you an idea of where he’s coming from, James posted a blog on Tuesday celebrating the death of Jerry Falwell. Ouch! Some would say he is mean and often mean-spirited. Some would say he’s a jerk. But he's a lovable jerk.
One of the biggest jerks I ever met was a college senior who was so obnoxiously arrogant I couldn’t stand him. But since the jerk was me I didn’t have much choice but to hang around him all the time. How do we handle people who are nothing like us and hard to get along with? We are called to embrace them and love them like Jesus does. Jesus didn’t avoid the unlovable people, He was magnetized to them. He gave his life for them…for me:
“God demonstrates his own love for us in this way, that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)
While I was still so unlovely and unlovable, Jesus died for me. Jesus died for you, too, and all your unlovely-ness. When we are consistently follow the Way of Jesus we will be known as “a friend of sinners” like He was.
~ Father, help me to attract and not repel those you most want to reach with your message of reconciliation and freedom. Make me an instrument of Your peace. Amen.
I just met someone who, except that we share the same first name, is nothing like me. James prides himself on being a highly opinionated (okay, we have that in common), non-religious, liberal, homosexual living in the Bible-belt (okay, we’re both guys who live in the Bible-belt).
James isn’t a Christian and doesn’t have much use for those who are, which is what makes our friendship so unusual. To give you an idea of where he’s coming from, James posted a blog on Tuesday celebrating the death of Jerry Falwell. Ouch! Some would say he is mean and often mean-spirited. Some would say he’s a jerk. But he's a lovable jerk.
One of the biggest jerks I ever met was a college senior who was so obnoxiously arrogant I couldn’t stand him. But since the jerk was me I didn’t have much choice but to hang around him all the time. How do we handle people who are nothing like us and hard to get along with? We are called to embrace them and love them like Jesus does. Jesus didn’t avoid the unlovable people, He was magnetized to them. He gave his life for them…for me:
“God demonstrates his own love for us in this way, that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)
While I was still so unlovely and unlovable, Jesus died for me. Jesus died for you, too, and all your unlovely-ness. When we are consistently follow the Way of Jesus we will be known as “a friend of sinners” like He was.
~ Father, help me to attract and not repel those you most want to reach with your message of reconciliation and freedom. Make me an instrument of Your peace. Amen.
Thursday, May 17, 2007
May 17: Worry Free
Mama always said, “Don’t worry yourself to death.” Well it seems that a group of Harvard researchers have confirmed what Mama knew what she was talking about. “Anxiety and worry and damage one’s health and even lead to death”, according to the researchers’ findings.
Wisdom is ancient. A couple of thousand years ago the writers of the Bible and Jesus himself taught about the dangers of worry. But they did more than sound a warning, they pointed to some remedies:
Jesus said, “You cannot serve both God and Money. 25 "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
27 Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? 28 "And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
31 So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. (Matthew 6:24-34)
Since you can’t serve both God and Money, choose God, put Him and His priorities first in your life.
The Apostle Paul, in a letter from a prison cell, wrote, “Do not be anxious (worry) about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)
Now if anyone had reason to worry or be anxious it would be a man in prison with a possible death sentence in his future. Yet Paul encouraged his readers to replace worry with prayer—talk to God about everything you’re thinking and feeling. The effect of this prescription is that God’s peace will guard your mind (thoughts) and heart (emotions, feelings); the two areas where the Enemy will launch his most subtle and damaging attacks.
Trading worry for peace—not a bad proposition. Prayer is the key. Do you have time for a conversation with your Creator right now? Why not take Him up on His offer?
~ Father, change my heart from one filled with worry to one filled with peace. Amen.
Wisdom is ancient. A couple of thousand years ago the writers of the Bible and Jesus himself taught about the dangers of worry. But they did more than sound a warning, they pointed to some remedies:
Jesus said, “You cannot serve both God and Money. 25 "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
27 Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? 28 "And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
31 So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. (Matthew 6:24-34)
Since you can’t serve both God and Money, choose God, put Him and His priorities first in your life.
The Apostle Paul, in a letter from a prison cell, wrote, “Do not be anxious (worry) about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)
Now if anyone had reason to worry or be anxious it would be a man in prison with a possible death sentence in his future. Yet Paul encouraged his readers to replace worry with prayer—talk to God about everything you’re thinking and feeling. The effect of this prescription is that God’s peace will guard your mind (thoughts) and heart (emotions, feelings); the two areas where the Enemy will launch his most subtle and damaging attacks.
Trading worry for peace—not a bad proposition. Prayer is the key. Do you have time for a conversation with your Creator right now? Why not take Him up on His offer?
~ Father, change my heart from one filled with worry to one filled with peace. Amen.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
May 16: Reconciled
My parents had been married for over 23 years before the divorce. The divorce; the watershed event in the life of our family. For decades everything would be remembered as LBD or LAD (life before divorce or life after divorce) “I hate divorce," says the LORD God of Israel (Malachi 2:16) So do I, in general, although there are circumstances when divorce is a healthy option. For the most part, though, it is ugly and painful. It breaks God’s heart when love dies and when dreams shatter.
But God loves people more than anything, and God has a heart for reconciliation—for seeing what’s broken be put back together, for seeing warring or estranged parties make peace and become reconciled, and see harmony restored.
The main reason Jesus came was to reconcile us to God. Reconciliation is always God’s highest priority. And oh, how we need it: In relationships between nations, in our political systems, in our churches and families, between different people groups.
“…God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ has given us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.” (2 Corinthians 5:18-19)
God is for us, not against us. Because of sin, and our sins, we are all estranged from God. God reconciles us to Himself through Jesus. But that’s not all. Those who’ve been reconciled to God then get to join Jesus on His mission—we become messengers, agents, of reconciliation.
What a cool thought to know that you have the privilege, as a “minister of reconciliation” to help other people restore their broken relationship with God, with their spouse, their family, their neighbors! We get to be part of brokenness being healed and relationships being restored.
There is nothing more exciting than to be the mid-wife when God births something new. When hope is restored the heart quickens, belief comes to life and gives birth to joy.
Where do you see brokenness around you today? Ask God to use you to bring reconciliation and new life to that situation.
~ Father, what an awesome thing you do in our hearts when we are reconciled to you. Use me today to be a minister and messenger of your reconciling power. Amen.
But God loves people more than anything, and God has a heart for reconciliation—for seeing what’s broken be put back together, for seeing warring or estranged parties make peace and become reconciled, and see harmony restored.
The main reason Jesus came was to reconcile us to God. Reconciliation is always God’s highest priority. And oh, how we need it: In relationships between nations, in our political systems, in our churches and families, between different people groups.
“…God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ has given us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.” (2 Corinthians 5:18-19)
God is for us, not against us. Because of sin, and our sins, we are all estranged from God. God reconciles us to Himself through Jesus. But that’s not all. Those who’ve been reconciled to God then get to join Jesus on His mission—we become messengers, agents, of reconciliation.
What a cool thought to know that you have the privilege, as a “minister of reconciliation” to help other people restore their broken relationship with God, with their spouse, their family, their neighbors! We get to be part of brokenness being healed and relationships being restored.
There is nothing more exciting than to be the mid-wife when God births something new. When hope is restored the heart quickens, belief comes to life and gives birth to joy.
Where do you see brokenness around you today? Ask God to use you to bring reconciliation and new life to that situation.
~ Father, what an awesome thing you do in our hearts when we are reconciled to you. Use me today to be a minister and messenger of your reconciling power. Amen.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
May 15: True North
I love being outdoors--kayaking, hiking and camping. So in preparation for some upcoming adventures I was brushing up on my orienteering skills. "True North" is a phrase I love. The spiritual connotations of having one's direction correctly set, having one's soul aligned with the Creator's will.
The Apostle Paul had his "internal compass" rightly aligned:
"Jesus died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again." (2 Corinthians 5:15)
For whom, or what, am I living? That's a question that needs to be asked daily.
Thomas O. Chisholm penned the lyrics to a popular Christian hymn which rightly answers the question and keeps me headed "True North".
Living for Jesus a life that is true,
Striving to please Him in all that I do;
Yielding allegiance, glad-hearted and free,
This is the pathway of blessing for me.
O Jesus, Lord and Savior, I give myself to Thee;
For Thou, in Thine atonement, didst give Thyself for me;
I own no other Master, my heart shall be Thy throne;
My life I give, henceforth to live, O Christ, for Thee alone.
For whom, or what, are you living? What motivates you? What would Jesus think of your answer?
~ Father, aim me today, for your glory. Amen.
The Apostle Paul had his "internal compass" rightly aligned:
"Jesus died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again." (2 Corinthians 5:15)
For whom, or what, am I living? That's a question that needs to be asked daily.
Thomas O. Chisholm penned the lyrics to a popular Christian hymn which rightly answers the question and keeps me headed "True North".
Living for Jesus a life that is true,
Striving to please Him in all that I do;
Yielding allegiance, glad-hearted and free,
This is the pathway of blessing for me.
O Jesus, Lord and Savior, I give myself to Thee;
For Thou, in Thine atonement, didst give Thyself for me;
I own no other Master, my heart shall be Thy throne;
My life I give, henceforth to live, O Christ, for Thee alone.
For whom, or what, are you living? What motivates you? What would Jesus think of your answer?
~ Father, aim me today, for your glory. Amen.
Monday, May 14, 2007
May 14: Go Vols!
“For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. 14 I will be found by you," declares the LORD, "and will bring you back from captivity.” (Jeremiah 29:10-14)
There are those who pray, “God, show me your will” and remain frustrated at the apparent silence. There are those who say, “God, I will do whatever you show me. I volunteer in advance for anything you want me to do, just show me your will.”
The latter is the attitude God desires and the prayer that He answers. Which prayer reflects the posture of your heart today?
~ Father, use me today for your glory, I willingly submit to Your will. Amen.
There are those who pray, “God, show me your will” and remain frustrated at the apparent silence. There are those who say, “God, I will do whatever you show me. I volunteer in advance for anything you want me to do, just show me your will.”
The latter is the attitude God desires and the prayer that He answers. Which prayer reflects the posture of your heart today?
~ Father, use me today for your glory, I willingly submit to Your will. Amen.
Sunday, May 13, 2007
May 13: The Submission Decision
"Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her…" (Ephesians 5:21, 22, 25)
Mutual submission makes a marriage heavenly. While people often cringe and recoil at this Biblical teaching, God’s way really is the best way.
Jesus modeled submission for us; submission to His Heavenly Father and to His earthly parents, Mary and Joseph:
“Then he went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. But his mother treasured all these things in her heart. 52 And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.” (Luke 2:51-52)
Submission doesn’t mean being someone’s doormat, it means yielding the right of way in order to avoid a collision. Submission means putting the other person’s needs and desires ahead of your own. When you have two people doing that for each other in the context of marriage…well, it just doesn’t get any better than that!
Submission is not confined to marriage. In any relationship; parent and child, co-workers, neighbors--try putting the needs and desires of the other person ahead of your own. God will bless.
~ Father, teach me to lead by serving; by putting the needs and desires of others ahead of my own. Amen.
Mutual submission makes a marriage heavenly. While people often cringe and recoil at this Biblical teaching, God’s way really is the best way.
Jesus modeled submission for us; submission to His Heavenly Father and to His earthly parents, Mary and Joseph:
“Then he went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. But his mother treasured all these things in her heart. 52 And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.” (Luke 2:51-52)
Submission doesn’t mean being someone’s doormat, it means yielding the right of way in order to avoid a collision. Submission means putting the other person’s needs and desires ahead of your own. When you have two people doing that for each other in the context of marriage…well, it just doesn’t get any better than that!
Submission is not confined to marriage. In any relationship; parent and child, co-workers, neighbors--try putting the needs and desires of the other person ahead of your own. God will bless.
~ Father, teach me to lead by serving; by putting the needs and desires of others ahead of my own. Amen.
May 12: Live Long and Prosper
Mr. Spock, of Star Trek fame, always signed off with the “blessing” of “live long and prosper.” A generous thought, but it’s not the creation of TV writers or fictitious Vulcans, but of God. This weekend as we celebrate Mothers on their special day we also receive a promised blessing from God.
One of the Ten Commandments is "Honor your father and your mother, as the LORD your God has commanded you, so that you may live long and that it may go well with you (you may prosper) in the land the LORD your God is giving you.” (Deuteronomy 5:16)
Our long life and prosperity is a promised consequence of honoring our parents.
In Proverbs 31 we find the descriptive portrait of “a virtuous woman” or “woman of noble character”:
She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy. She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed; (Proverbs 31:20, 25-28)
A Godly mother is to be praised. She is a blessing to her family, friends and neighbors. Those who “bless” her receive God’s blessings in return. Those who honor their mother live long and prosper under the hand of God.
Find a way to honor your mother this weekend; even if she is deceased her memory and contribution can be honored. By honoring your mother you honor God, as well.
~ Father, thank you for my Mom and all that she has done to make me who I am. May I find opportunity today to “arise and call her blessed”, to honor her and brag on her. Amen.
One of the Ten Commandments is "Honor your father and your mother, as the LORD your God has commanded you, so that you may live long and that it may go well with you (you may prosper) in the land the LORD your God is giving you.” (Deuteronomy 5:16)
Our long life and prosperity is a promised consequence of honoring our parents.
In Proverbs 31 we find the descriptive portrait of “a virtuous woman” or “woman of noble character”:
She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy. She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed; (Proverbs 31:20, 25-28)
A Godly mother is to be praised. She is a blessing to her family, friends and neighbors. Those who “bless” her receive God’s blessings in return. Those who honor their mother live long and prosper under the hand of God.
Find a way to honor your mother this weekend; even if she is deceased her memory and contribution can be honored. By honoring your mother you honor God, as well.
~ Father, thank you for my Mom and all that she has done to make me who I am. May I find opportunity today to “arise and call her blessed”, to honor her and brag on her. Amen.
Friday, May 11, 2007
May 11: Heart Song
Last night my son was in a choral and band concert. They did quite well. Having endured, I mean attended, many middle school music events over the years, I was pleasantly surprised to find the quality of the presentation quite impressive. I found myself in an unplanned worship experience, thanking God for beautiful music.
I officiated at a funeral service, a “homegoing celebration” for a 91-year-old woman who went to be with the Lord. Her entire life she was known for singing. Whether washing dishes or picking cotton or knitting—she was always singing or humming a gospel tune. She didn’t have a soloist's voice, but she certainly had the heart. She couldn’t keep from singing. God had put a song in her heart.
I don’t know what I’d do without music. But it’s not just music that I love. There is lots of music, much of it noise. God is the source of my song. He changed my tune…for the better. King David of Israel wrote many songs; sometimes full of angst and fear, sometimes lyrics overflowing with joy, but always coming around to give praise to God. God put a song in his heart:
“The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song.” (Psalms 28:7)
“He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD.” (Psalms 40:3)
The Christ-followers I hang out with sometimes sing a song entitled, “He Keeps Me Singing”. He put a new song in our hearts and in our mouths. And He sustains the song. No matter what the circumstances or challenge, He keeps us singing.
Do you have a song? What is the source of your song? Who is your audience?
~ Father, give me a new song today, and I’ll return it back to You as an act of worship. Amen.
I officiated at a funeral service, a “homegoing celebration” for a 91-year-old woman who went to be with the Lord. Her entire life she was known for singing. Whether washing dishes or picking cotton or knitting—she was always singing or humming a gospel tune. She didn’t have a soloist's voice, but she certainly had the heart. She couldn’t keep from singing. God had put a song in her heart.
I don’t know what I’d do without music. But it’s not just music that I love. There is lots of music, much of it noise. God is the source of my song. He changed my tune…for the better. King David of Israel wrote many songs; sometimes full of angst and fear, sometimes lyrics overflowing with joy, but always coming around to give praise to God. God put a song in his heart:
“The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song.” (Psalms 28:7)
“He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD.” (Psalms 40:3)
The Christ-followers I hang out with sometimes sing a song entitled, “He Keeps Me Singing”. He put a new song in our hearts and in our mouths. And He sustains the song. No matter what the circumstances or challenge, He keeps us singing.
Do you have a song? What is the source of your song? Who is your audience?
~ Father, give me a new song today, and I’ll return it back to You as an act of worship. Amen.
Thursday, May 10, 2007
May 10: Sanctuary
So I’m watching The Mask of Zorro (again) a couple of weeks ago—the one with Antonio Bandaras, Catherine Zeta-Jones and Anthony Hopkins.
I like the scene where the army is hot on Zorro’s heels and he dives into a church to hide. He winds up in the confessional playing the role of priest, and escapes just in time when the real priest enters the room.
The idea of sanctuary—of running to God and God’s house as a place of safety when the heat is on—is an appealing idea, a welcome relief. King David of Israel found himself in that predicament on more than one occasion. He wrote a song (Psalm 27) to express his feelings:
“The LORD is my light and my salvation-- whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life-- of whom shall I be afraid? 2 When evil men advance against me to devour my flesh, when my enemies and my foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. 3 Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then will I be confident. 4 One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple. 5 For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; He will hide me in the shelter of his tabernacle and set me high upon a rock. 6 Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his tabernacle will I sacrifice with shouts of joy." (Psalms 27:1-6)
Are you feeling the pressure today? Under the gun at work? Overwhelmed by the demands of parenting, marriage, finances? Seek refuge in God. "Sanctuary" exists, but it's not a place, it's a person. Time in conversation with God can restore your confidence, reorient your compass and re-establish your foundation.
David had more to say:
"I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. 14 Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD. "(Psalms 27:13-14)
You don’t have to wait until you die to see God--just wait for Him now. To see His goodness in the land of the living—here and now. Right now, why not pause and seek Him? A little time of Sanctuary may be just what your soul needs—a reprieve from the pressures of the day. Conversation with your Creator way change your perspective on things.
And remember, when conversing with the Eternal Creator of the Universe, it’s a good idea to do more listening than talking.
~ Father, still and quiet my heart right now. Help me to hear you even while in the midst of the roar of daily pressures. Be my Rock and Shelter. Amen.
I like the scene where the army is hot on Zorro’s heels and he dives into a church to hide. He winds up in the confessional playing the role of priest, and escapes just in time when the real priest enters the room.
The idea of sanctuary—of running to God and God’s house as a place of safety when the heat is on—is an appealing idea, a welcome relief. King David of Israel found himself in that predicament on more than one occasion. He wrote a song (Psalm 27) to express his feelings:
“The LORD is my light and my salvation-- whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life-- of whom shall I be afraid? 2 When evil men advance against me to devour my flesh, when my enemies and my foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. 3 Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then will I be confident. 4 One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple. 5 For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; He will hide me in the shelter of his tabernacle and set me high upon a rock. 6 Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his tabernacle will I sacrifice with shouts of joy." (Psalms 27:1-6)
Are you feeling the pressure today? Under the gun at work? Overwhelmed by the demands of parenting, marriage, finances? Seek refuge in God. "Sanctuary" exists, but it's not a place, it's a person. Time in conversation with God can restore your confidence, reorient your compass and re-establish your foundation.
David had more to say:
"I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. 14 Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD. "(Psalms 27:13-14)
You don’t have to wait until you die to see God--just wait for Him now. To see His goodness in the land of the living—here and now. Right now, why not pause and seek Him? A little time of Sanctuary may be just what your soul needs—a reprieve from the pressures of the day. Conversation with your Creator way change your perspective on things.
And remember, when conversing with the Eternal Creator of the Universe, it’s a good idea to do more listening than talking.
~ Father, still and quiet my heart right now. Help me to hear you even while in the midst of the roar of daily pressures. Be my Rock and Shelter. Amen.
Wednesday, May 9, 2007
May 9: The Irreducible Minimum
Simplify. Un-clutter. Organize. Often, in order to enjoy life, we need to get rid of all the extra “stuff” and get down to the “irreducible minimum”. That is especially true in pursuing a relationship with God. No unnecessary baggage or rules; no middle-man; no meaningless rituals or outdated tradition.
The prophet Micah, in the Old Testament Jewish Scripture, pointed people to the irreducible minimum: “He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To do justice, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8)
Jesus came for the purpose of setting people free (especially from religion) so we could enjoy a real and personal relationship with our Creator. Jesus was all about the irreducible minimum, too, and boiled everything—The Law of Moses, the Prophets…all of scripture—down to two things: “Love the Lord your God with all of your heart, soul, mind and strength; and love your neighbor as yourself.” (Luke 10:27)
This was Jesus answer to the direct question, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?" But then there was a follow up question: "Who, exactly, is my neighbor?" Jesus answered that question with a story—the story of “the Good Samaritan”. The unexpected hero was the outcast who did for a victimized man of a different race what religious leaders of his own ethnicity wouldn’t do for him.
Jesus calls us to be “neighborly” to everyone. Everyone. So show mercy to the guy next door, the foreigner, even your enemies.
The irreducible minimum comes down to relationship. Love God and the people He created; all people. No favoritism. No selective love. Love even when it costs—especially when it costs you something. Sacrificial love. As we learn to love God with our whole beings we also begin to love people to the degree that He loves people.
The irreducible minimum. No more, no less. Even that is impossible without a heart change and Divine empowerment.
~ Father, I can’t even hit the low mark on my own power. Thank you for your sacrificial love. Help me to love others the way you have loved me. Amen.
The prophet Micah, in the Old Testament Jewish Scripture, pointed people to the irreducible minimum: “He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To do justice, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8)
Jesus came for the purpose of setting people free (especially from religion) so we could enjoy a real and personal relationship with our Creator. Jesus was all about the irreducible minimum, too, and boiled everything—The Law of Moses, the Prophets…all of scripture—down to two things: “Love the Lord your God with all of your heart, soul, mind and strength; and love your neighbor as yourself.” (Luke 10:27)
This was Jesus answer to the direct question, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?" But then there was a follow up question: "Who, exactly, is my neighbor?" Jesus answered that question with a story—the story of “the Good Samaritan”. The unexpected hero was the outcast who did for a victimized man of a different race what religious leaders of his own ethnicity wouldn’t do for him.
Jesus calls us to be “neighborly” to everyone. Everyone. So show mercy to the guy next door, the foreigner, even your enemies.
The irreducible minimum comes down to relationship. Love God and the people He created; all people. No favoritism. No selective love. Love even when it costs—especially when it costs you something. Sacrificial love. As we learn to love God with our whole beings we also begin to love people to the degree that He loves people.
The irreducible minimum. No more, no less. Even that is impossible without a heart change and Divine empowerment.
~ Father, I can’t even hit the low mark on my own power. Thank you for your sacrificial love. Help me to love others the way you have loved me. Amen.
Tuesday, May 8, 2007
May 8: Pure Sex
Our culture is obsessed with sex. We are constantly bombarded, through every medium, with sexual images and innuendo. Temptation toward sexual impurity is a strong and ongoing battle for most people, especially guys, as our culture lures us away from God's blessing at every turn.
Sex was not dreamed up in some dark alley or in the corner of some porn shop. Sex is God’s idea and the best sex you’ll ever have is when you follow His plan. God loves us and wants us to have real intimacy--with Him and in all our relationships. Purity leads to real intimacy. What’s the opposite of pure sex? Impure (polluted, contaminated, poisoned) relationship. That's not God's plan.
Living for self-gratification and indulgence leaves a trail of broken hearts and broken lives in its wake. How do we live a life of purity, believing that purity leads to real intimacy? How are we to respond to sexual temptation?
"So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it." (1 Corinthians 10:12-13)
When we are tempted several things are in play. The Enemy is trying to destroy you. Andy Stanley said, "temptation is always a test of our faith, not just our self-control." Jesus understands the battle because He's faced the same temptation. He always offers an escape hatch if we'll look for it and run to it.
Paul instructs, "Flee (run for your life!) from sexual immorality. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body. Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body." (1 Corinthians 6:18-20)
Purity leads to real intimacy--with God and in all other relationships. Impurity pollutes, contaminates and destroys. Jesus offers freedom and victory. Run from the temptation and run to Jesus.
~ Father, help me to follow your plan, knowing that you have my best interest at heart. Keep me pure in mind and body so I can enjoy life at its best. Amen.
Sex was not dreamed up in some dark alley or in the corner of some porn shop. Sex is God’s idea and the best sex you’ll ever have is when you follow His plan. God loves us and wants us to have real intimacy--with Him and in all our relationships. Purity leads to real intimacy. What’s the opposite of pure sex? Impure (polluted, contaminated, poisoned) relationship. That's not God's plan.
Living for self-gratification and indulgence leaves a trail of broken hearts and broken lives in its wake. How do we live a life of purity, believing that purity leads to real intimacy? How are we to respond to sexual temptation?
"So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don't fall! No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it." (1 Corinthians 10:12-13)
When we are tempted several things are in play. The Enemy is trying to destroy you. Andy Stanley said, "temptation is always a test of our faith, not just our self-control." Jesus understands the battle because He's faced the same temptation. He always offers an escape hatch if we'll look for it and run to it.
Paul instructs, "Flee (run for your life!) from sexual immorality. All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body. Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body." (1 Corinthians 6:18-20)
Purity leads to real intimacy--with God and in all other relationships. Impurity pollutes, contaminates and destroys. Jesus offers freedom and victory. Run from the temptation and run to Jesus.
~ Father, help me to follow your plan, knowing that you have my best interest at heart. Keep me pure in mind and body so I can enjoy life at its best. Amen.
Saturday, May 5, 2007
May 5: No Regrets
God wants us to feel rotten about some things. Not about ourselves, but about our sin. There is a difference between guilt and shame. I don’t believe God ever seeks to shame us—He values you and loves you. Feeling guilty is an appropriate reaction to guilt—to breaking God’s law and breaking God’s heart. Convicting us and convincing us of our sin is the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives.
The Apostle Paul put it like this: “Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.” (2 Corinthians 7:10)
If we see our sin--our guilt--but not God’s grace, then we are hopelessly distraught—that kind of sorrow destroys us. If we see God’s grace but don’t see our sin then God’s actions seem useless, even stupid. But if, at the same time, we see our sin and God’s grace then that is our salvation!
In light of God’s grace we are broken over our sin and come to a point of repentance. God, in His mercy, forgives us, graces us, which leads to our forgiveness and restoration. That kind of salvation leaves no regrets. No regrets. Now that’s freedom. That is healing.
~ Father, help me to see both my sin and your grace and never miss one or the other. Thank you for the freedom I find in Your forgiveness. Amen.
The Apostle Paul put it like this: “Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.” (2 Corinthians 7:10)
If we see our sin--our guilt--but not God’s grace, then we are hopelessly distraught—that kind of sorrow destroys us. If we see God’s grace but don’t see our sin then God’s actions seem useless, even stupid. But if, at the same time, we see our sin and God’s grace then that is our salvation!
In light of God’s grace we are broken over our sin and come to a point of repentance. God, in His mercy, forgives us, graces us, which leads to our forgiveness and restoration. That kind of salvation leaves no regrets. No regrets. Now that’s freedom. That is healing.
~ Father, help me to see both my sin and your grace and never miss one or the other. Thank you for the freedom I find in Your forgiveness. Amen.
Friday, May 4, 2007
May 4: Power of Prayer?
I hear a lot of people talk about the power of prayer. I don’t believe in the power of prayer, per se. I know a lot of different people who pray to a lot of different gods. In Asia we saw people pray to idols made of stone and wood. Those prayers fell on deaf ears. The power lies not in the prayer or the pray-er, but in the God to whom we pray.
Here in America yesterday was the National Day of Prayer. I have a lot of questions about that. How many people really prayed? To whom did they pray? How long did they pray? Did all those prayers really make a difference? Really? I met with a group at noon at a local park. We prayed for about half an hour. Maybe next year we should have The National Half-Hour of Prayer.
What if our nation really did have a DAY of prayer? Twenty-four hours where everything ceased except praying to the God of our founding fathers, the God of Jesus, the Christ. What about The National Week of Prayer? Would that make a difference? I believe it would. I think it would impact the entire world in a very positive way.
We find the early Church “all joined together constantly in prayer” for days on end (Acts 1:14). I suppose they saw the stakes as pretty high, a matter of life and death.
We read in the Book of Acts, Chapter four that “they raised their voices together in prayer to God…. "Sovereign Lord," they said, "you made the heaven and the earth and the sea, and everything in them. 25 You spoke by the Holy Spirit through the mouth of your servant, our father David: "'Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? 26 The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together against the Lord and against his Anointed One (Jesus)... 29 Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. 30 Stretch out your hand to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus." 31 After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. (Acts 4:23-31)
When Nehemiah heard about the dismal state of Jerusalem, that "Those who survived the exile and were back in the province were in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem was broken down, and its gates had been burned with fire." He wrote: "When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven. 5 Then I said: "O LORD, God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and obey his commands, 6 let your ear be attentive and your eyes open to hear the prayer your servant is praying before you day and night for your servants, the people of Israel. I confess the sins we Israelites, including myself and my father's house, have committed against you. 7 We have acted very wickedly toward you. We have not obeyed the commands, decrees and laws you gave your servant Moses”. (Nehemiah 1:3-7)
Maybe when we pray that honestly, and pray so intently that we weep over our sin, we are so grief stricken about our predicament that we forgo food and daily routines because we cannot move until we see God move, maybe if we prayed like that things really would change for the better. Maybe, but are we willing?
~ Father, forgive us for giving you a cursory “tip of the hat” as we proceed merrily on our way without breaking our stride. Help me to become modern-day Nehemiah in regard to my praying. Amen.
Here in America yesterday was the National Day of Prayer. I have a lot of questions about that. How many people really prayed? To whom did they pray? How long did they pray? Did all those prayers really make a difference? Really? I met with a group at noon at a local park. We prayed for about half an hour. Maybe next year we should have The National Half-Hour of Prayer.
What if our nation really did have a DAY of prayer? Twenty-four hours where everything ceased except praying to the God of our founding fathers, the God of Jesus, the Christ. What about The National Week of Prayer? Would that make a difference? I believe it would. I think it would impact the entire world in a very positive way.
We find the early Church “all joined together constantly in prayer” for days on end (Acts 1:14). I suppose they saw the stakes as pretty high, a matter of life and death.
We read in the Book of Acts, Chapter four that “they raised their voices together in prayer to God…. "Sovereign Lord," they said, "you made the heaven and the earth and the sea, and everything in them. 25 You spoke by the Holy Spirit through the mouth of your servant, our father David: "'Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain? 26 The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together against the Lord and against his Anointed One (Jesus)... 29 Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. 30 Stretch out your hand to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus." 31 After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly. (Acts 4:23-31)
When Nehemiah heard about the dismal state of Jerusalem, that "Those who survived the exile and were back in the province were in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem was broken down, and its gates had been burned with fire." He wrote: "When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven. 5 Then I said: "O LORD, God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and obey his commands, 6 let your ear be attentive and your eyes open to hear the prayer your servant is praying before you day and night for your servants, the people of Israel. I confess the sins we Israelites, including myself and my father's house, have committed against you. 7 We have acted very wickedly toward you. We have not obeyed the commands, decrees and laws you gave your servant Moses”. (Nehemiah 1:3-7)
Maybe when we pray that honestly, and pray so intently that we weep over our sin, we are so grief stricken about our predicament that we forgo food and daily routines because we cannot move until we see God move, maybe if we prayed like that things really would change for the better. Maybe, but are we willing?
~ Father, forgive us for giving you a cursory “tip of the hat” as we proceed merrily on our way without breaking our stride. Help me to become modern-day Nehemiah in regard to my praying. Amen.
Thursday, May 3, 2007
May 3: Loving Discipline
"Love" and "discipline". Many people think those words are polar opposites. My wife is a third grade teacher and gives out a steady dose of both of these on a daily basis. One of her favorite sayings is “Punishment controls a child; discipline teaches a child to control himself.” Some confuse discipline with punishment.
My young friend Billy recently joined the U. S. Marine Corps. In his words, “I need to grow up and I think they can help me with that.” Oh yeah. He will “grow up” quickly because the Marines know about discipline.
The Bible teaches that discipline is good and necessary because God does love us.
"My son, do not make light of the Lord's discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son." 7 Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? 8 If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons. 9 Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of our spirits and live! 10 Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. 11 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. (Hebrews 12:5-11)
There are many Christians who want to attribute any difficulty in their lives as an attack by Satan. There are those that believe that God would never want anything “bad” (uncomfortable) to happen to his children. The truth is God disciplines us for our good so we may share in His holiness. The discipline eventually produces righteousness and peace in our lives.
The path to peace requires discipline. Jesus called His followers "disciples"; the very notion of learning from Him and being identified with Him is rooted in discipline. Don’t resist the difficulties and pain, they are shaping tools, used by the Divine Sculptor, to discipline us and prepare us for holy and peaceful living.
~ Father, thank you for loving me enough to correct me. Help me to accept you discipline no matter how painful it may be for a season. Amen.
My young friend Billy recently joined the U. S. Marine Corps. In his words, “I need to grow up and I think they can help me with that.” Oh yeah. He will “grow up” quickly because the Marines know about discipline.
The Bible teaches that discipline is good and necessary because God does love us.
"My son, do not make light of the Lord's discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son." 7 Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For what son is not disciplined by his father? 8 If you are not disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you are illegitimate children and not true sons. 9 Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of our spirits and live! 10 Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. 11 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. (Hebrews 12:5-11)
There are many Christians who want to attribute any difficulty in their lives as an attack by Satan. There are those that believe that God would never want anything “bad” (uncomfortable) to happen to his children. The truth is God disciplines us for our good so we may share in His holiness. The discipline eventually produces righteousness and peace in our lives.
The path to peace requires discipline. Jesus called His followers "disciples"; the very notion of learning from Him and being identified with Him is rooted in discipline. Don’t resist the difficulties and pain, they are shaping tools, used by the Divine Sculptor, to discipline us and prepare us for holy and peaceful living.
~ Father, thank you for loving me enough to correct me. Help me to accept you discipline no matter how painful it may be for a season. Amen.
Wednesday, May 2, 2007
May 2: Song of Thanks
The Twenty-Third Psalm is one of the most beautiful pieces of literature in all of history. This song, written by King David of Israel over 3,000 years ago, is all about giving thanks to God. It is the explosive expression of a grateful heart. If David did our Ledger Exercise (see May 1 blog) this is a peek at what would be on his list…
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want – thank you God for meeting all my needs.
He makes me to lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside still waters, he restores my soul – thank you God for nourishing my body and my spirit.
He leads me in the paths of righteousness for his name sake – thank you God for giving me wisdom and courage to make decisions that please you.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil for you are with me– thank you God for your presence and your peace.
Your rod and staff they comfort me – thank you God for your protection and your discipline.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies – thank you God for vindicating me, for blessing me as I honor you.
You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows – thank you God for your abundant blessings.
Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life – thank you God for your constant care, your patience and your forgiveness.
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever – thank you God that death is not the end of the road, just a bend in the road. Thank you for meeting my eternal needs as well as me everyday needs.
~ Father, thank you, thank you, thank you! Amen.
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want – thank you God for meeting all my needs.
He makes me to lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside still waters, he restores my soul – thank you God for nourishing my body and my spirit.
He leads me in the paths of righteousness for his name sake – thank you God for giving me wisdom and courage to make decisions that please you.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil for you are with me– thank you God for your presence and your peace.
Your rod and staff they comfort me – thank you God for your protection and your discipline.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies – thank you God for vindicating me, for blessing me as I honor you.
You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows – thank you God for your abundant blessings.
Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life – thank you God for your constant care, your patience and your forgiveness.
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever – thank you God that death is not the end of the road, just a bend in the road. Thank you for meeting my eternal needs as well as me everyday needs.
~ Father, thank you, thank you, thank you! Amen.
Tuesday, May 1, 2007
May 1: The Ledger
Complaining and being grateful are mutually exclusive. Complainers don’t often show gratitude, and ungrateful people don’t often experience peace. The goal is to learn to replace a complaining heart with a grateful heart, because a grateful heart is a peace-filled heart.
An interesting story of God reaction to complaints or complainers is found in the Book of Numbers:
Now the people complained about their hardships in the hearing of the LORD, and when he heard them his anger was aroused. Then fire from the LORD burned among them and consumed some of the outskirts of the camp. (Numbers 11:1)
All the Israelites complained against Moses and Aaron, and the whole assembly said to them, "If only we had died in Egypt! Or in this desert! 3 Why is the LORD bringing us to this land only to let us fall by the sword? Our wives and children will be taken as plunder. Wouldn't it be better for us to go back to Egypt?" 4 And they said to each other, "We should choose a leader and go back to Egypt."
11 The LORD said to Moses, "How long will these people treat me with contempt? How long will they refuse to believe in me, in spite of all the miraculous signs I have performed among them? 12 I will strike them down with a plague and destroy them, but I will make you into a nation greater and stronger than they."
26 The LORD said to Moses and Aaron: 27 "How long will this wicked community grumble against me? I have heard the complaints of these grumbling Israelites. 28 So tell them, 'As surely as I live, declares the LORD, I will do to you the very things I heard you say: 29 In this desert your bodies will fall--every one of you twenty years old or more who was counted in the census and who has complained against me.
(Numbers 14:2-4, 11-12, 26-29)
Why would God have such a strong reaction to grumbling and complaining? Whatever you are complaining about, be it leaders, kids, money, whatever; that thing or person is a gift from God. To complain about the gift is to insult the Giver.
God takes complaining very seriously. How can we change from being complaining to being grateful? Try this exercise: take a ledger sheet or just a plain piece of paper and for seven days record every single blessing that comes your way. Then take a few minutes and thank God, praise Him, for all of those incredible gifts. When you begin to complain catch yourself, and try to see the positive side of that thing or person about which you are complaining. It is possible to change a complaining heart into a grateful heart; and a grateful heart is a peace-filled heart.
~ Father, help me to notice all your blessing and give credit where credit is due. Amen.
An interesting story of God reaction to complaints or complainers is found in the Book of Numbers:
Now the people complained about their hardships in the hearing of the LORD, and when he heard them his anger was aroused. Then fire from the LORD burned among them and consumed some of the outskirts of the camp. (Numbers 11:1)
All the Israelites complained against Moses and Aaron, and the whole assembly said to them, "If only we had died in Egypt! Or in this desert! 3 Why is the LORD bringing us to this land only to let us fall by the sword? Our wives and children will be taken as plunder. Wouldn't it be better for us to go back to Egypt?" 4 And they said to each other, "We should choose a leader and go back to Egypt."
11 The LORD said to Moses, "How long will these people treat me with contempt? How long will they refuse to believe in me, in spite of all the miraculous signs I have performed among them? 12 I will strike them down with a plague and destroy them, but I will make you into a nation greater and stronger than they."
26 The LORD said to Moses and Aaron: 27 "How long will this wicked community grumble against me? I have heard the complaints of these grumbling Israelites. 28 So tell them, 'As surely as I live, declares the LORD, I will do to you the very things I heard you say: 29 In this desert your bodies will fall--every one of you twenty years old or more who was counted in the census and who has complained against me.
(Numbers 14:2-4, 11-12, 26-29)
Why would God have such a strong reaction to grumbling and complaining? Whatever you are complaining about, be it leaders, kids, money, whatever; that thing or person is a gift from God. To complain about the gift is to insult the Giver.
God takes complaining very seriously. How can we change from being complaining to being grateful? Try this exercise: take a ledger sheet or just a plain piece of paper and for seven days record every single blessing that comes your way. Then take a few minutes and thank God, praise Him, for all of those incredible gifts. When you begin to complain catch yourself, and try to see the positive side of that thing or person about which you are complaining. It is possible to change a complaining heart into a grateful heart; and a grateful heart is a peace-filled heart.
~ Father, help me to notice all your blessing and give credit where credit is due. Amen.
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