The Bible warns us against letting our emotions rule our thinking. It makes it clear that the enemy seeks to exploit our negative emotions and drive a wedge between us and the Lord. I'm finding myself in those exact circumstances at the moment. I think the worst thing about it is that it undermines the hope and faith I have in God. It makes it hard to trust, when my thoughts continually prick at my fear and insecurity, when all I can see is my anxiety.
I often reach a point where I decide that I will trust God, even if only for a moment. The idea of trusting Him for the next hour, the whole day, or the whole week is too overwhelming, but I can choose to trust Him right now. I can take the next few minutes to identify things in my life that are praise-worthy, areas where God is clearly present, and dwell on those. I can choose to rejoice and pray that God will help me to change my perspective. Hope soothes my insecurity, praise challenges my fears.
What is your response when your emotions get away from you?
Today's Verse
Psalm 43:5
Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.
An exploration of faith and hope in the midst of fibromyalgia and the various and sundry things of life.
Friday, June 28, 2013
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
A Faith Work Out
Achieving mature faith is a process that is not accomplished overnight. In many ways it's like a physical work out. Life is a series of events that require us to build stamina and spiritual muscle. Each time we overcome a challenge or learn a new lesson is like reaching a new level of fitness. However, just because we are more fit than we used to be does not mean that there is not room for continued improvement. It doesn't mean that God won't challenge us to continue to improve, to build our faith so that we can face greater and greater adversity.
Occasionally I find myself facing new trials and becoming slightly resentful. I sometimes wonder, "Haven't I proven myself in this area already? Haven't we been through this, Lord?" However, the Lord seeks to prepare us, not just for the momentary obstacle we are facing, but also for the future. He knows we will continue to to encounter challenges and He does not want us to be under-prepared or to become complacent. Our current adversity is God's way of providing us with protection and skills for the adversity we will face later on. These challenges are not punishment, they are provision.
When I think of challenges to my faith as God's provision, my attitude changes. I find myself grateful for the experience, glad that I can learn to lean more fully on the Lord. I am overwhelmed by the fact that, regardless of the challenge, God has yet to meet my needs, to meet with me, to make known His presence and His love for me. I can rejoice, knowing that God has already overcome any adversity that I might face, and He is ready and waiting to help me overcome as well.
Are you rejoicing in the challenges you face?
Today's Verse
1 Peter 1: 6-7
In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
Occasionally I find myself facing new trials and becoming slightly resentful. I sometimes wonder, "Haven't I proven myself in this area already? Haven't we been through this, Lord?" However, the Lord seeks to prepare us, not just for the momentary obstacle we are facing, but also for the future. He knows we will continue to to encounter challenges and He does not want us to be under-prepared or to become complacent. Our current adversity is God's way of providing us with protection and skills for the adversity we will face later on. These challenges are not punishment, they are provision.
When I think of challenges to my faith as God's provision, my attitude changes. I find myself grateful for the experience, glad that I can learn to lean more fully on the Lord. I am overwhelmed by the fact that, regardless of the challenge, God has yet to meet my needs, to meet with me, to make known His presence and His love for me. I can rejoice, knowing that God has already overcome any adversity that I might face, and He is ready and waiting to help me overcome as well.
Are you rejoicing in the challenges you face?
Today's Verse
1 Peter 1: 6-7
In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
Monday, June 24, 2013
The Means or the End?
Not too long ago, a friend encouraged me by telling me that her journey through grad school was less about her degree than it was about God letting her simply be where she was. I am seeing this truth in my life more and more as the days go by. I am beginning to see that, for me, my degree is a means for me to be here, it is not the ultimate, life-defining goal. This place, these people, are not a means to an end. They are a worthy end, in and of themselves.
As God changes my goals and my dreams, as some dreams die and others are born, I find myself so thankful for the time that God has given me. I've had time in my department to form friendships, to form relationships that were supportive and surprising. I've had time to learn how to think and critique my field, but also how to think and critique myself. I've learned what is important to me, as well as what and where to let go of my pursuit of perfection. I've had time to build a community and a life here that I treasure.
As time passes, and as things continue to change, I persist in thanking God for the time He gives. I thank Him that he has provided me with time and space to evaluate my life and my future. I thank Him for the time and space to write, to live, to simply be, in a familiar place with few pressures.
Where the Spirit of the Lord is there is freedom, space, and time. There is change and transformation of ourselves and of our lives.
Are you aware of the freedom you've been given? Are you letting it change you?
Today's Verses
2 Corinthians 3:17-18
Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
As God changes my goals and my dreams, as some dreams die and others are born, I find myself so thankful for the time that God has given me. I've had time in my department to form friendships, to form relationships that were supportive and surprising. I've had time to learn how to think and critique my field, but also how to think and critique myself. I've learned what is important to me, as well as what and where to let go of my pursuit of perfection. I've had time to build a community and a life here that I treasure.
As time passes, and as things continue to change, I persist in thanking God for the time He gives. I thank Him that he has provided me with time and space to evaluate my life and my future. I thank Him for the time and space to write, to live, to simply be, in a familiar place with few pressures.
Where the Spirit of the Lord is there is freedom, space, and time. There is change and transformation of ourselves and of our lives.
Are you aware of the freedom you've been given? Are you letting it change you?
Today's Verses
2 Corinthians 3:17-18
Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
Sunday, June 23, 2013
Simple Sundays: America's Pastime
Free tickets to a minor (very minor) league baseball game? Check. Gorgeous weather? Check. Awesome friends to go to the game with? Check. Today promises to be filled with nice, easy, summery leisure. It's days like today that make it easy to take a break from the stresses of life and just enjoy the moment, praising God for the luxury of relaxation.
What are you doing to enjoy this lovely summer day?
What are you doing to enjoy this lovely summer day?
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| Medlar Field at Lubrano Park |
Saturday, June 22, 2013
Hungry for Peace
I've reached a point in my life where I hunger for the peace that God's word promises us. What I have discovered is that peace doesn't come without work and effort. If we want peace, we have to work with God and let Him work in us.
Philippians 4 says that the peace that transcends all understanding is obtained when we present all we need and want to the Lord, with thanksgiving. In my experience, however, a spirit of thanksgiving is not easily cultivated. Thanksgiving stems from joy and assurance. Thanksgiving comes from finding the silver linings in our difficult situations. Thanksgiving comes from being willing to let God use adversity to teach us. We can be thankful for all sorts of things when we are focused more on the provision of the Lord than we are on our momentary circumstances. When we recognize that the Lord has a purpose for the challenges we face, we can be thankful for the chance to learn. When we approach His throne, thankful for the experiences He is bringing us, we allow him to reassure us that he provides for us and watches over us. When we remember this, we are at peace, sure that our doubts and worries are unfounded.
Christ came to lead us into peace, to guard our hearts and minds with His peace, to lessen our burdens and free us from concern.
Are you cultivating peace in your life?
Today's Verses
Luke 1: 78-79
Because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.
Philippians 4 says that the peace that transcends all understanding is obtained when we present all we need and want to the Lord, with thanksgiving. In my experience, however, a spirit of thanksgiving is not easily cultivated. Thanksgiving stems from joy and assurance. Thanksgiving comes from finding the silver linings in our difficult situations. Thanksgiving comes from being willing to let God use adversity to teach us. We can be thankful for all sorts of things when we are focused more on the provision of the Lord than we are on our momentary circumstances. When we recognize that the Lord has a purpose for the challenges we face, we can be thankful for the chance to learn. When we approach His throne, thankful for the experiences He is bringing us, we allow him to reassure us that he provides for us and watches over us. When we remember this, we are at peace, sure that our doubts and worries are unfounded.
Christ came to lead us into peace, to guard our hearts and minds with His peace, to lessen our burdens and free us from concern.
Are you cultivating peace in your life?
Today's Verses
Luke 1: 78-79
Because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.
Friday, June 21, 2013
Confidence in Christ
The Bible exhorts us to take hold of that to which we were called when we accepted Christ that we might fight the good fight of the faith (1 Timothy 6:12). This is the path to confidence - to claim our calling for our own, to hold on to our assurance of salvation, to be intimately aware of the presence of Christ in our lives.
When my confidence is shaky, when I'm not sure what to do or where to go, I am still confident in Christ's love for me. My thesis defense is quickly approaching, and I find myself full of nerves. The what-ifs attempt to undermine my confidence in myself, in my learning, in what God is doing in my life. However, when I take hold of that which Christ has done for me, when I focus on my eternal goals, not just my upcoming evaluation, that confidence comes back.
If I am doing what Christ is asking, and if I am going where He is leading, the what-ifs have no power over me. I am confident that Christ will complete the good work he began in me. I am confident that He will equip me as needed. I am confident that I can succeed as He wills.
Are you taking your confidence from Christ?
Today's Verse
Philippians 1:6
Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
When my confidence is shaky, when I'm not sure what to do or where to go, I am still confident in Christ's love for me. My thesis defense is quickly approaching, and I find myself full of nerves. The what-ifs attempt to undermine my confidence in myself, in my learning, in what God is doing in my life. However, when I take hold of that which Christ has done for me, when I focus on my eternal goals, not just my upcoming evaluation, that confidence comes back.
If I am doing what Christ is asking, and if I am going where He is leading, the what-ifs have no power over me. I am confident that Christ will complete the good work he began in me. I am confident that He will equip me as needed. I am confident that I can succeed as He wills.
Are you taking your confidence from Christ?
Today's Verse
Philippians 1:6
Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Thursday, June 20, 2013
Making Progress
Last night, my mom shared a quote with me from a speech her boss made. He said, "Thinking differently is the source of all progress." I have found that this is especially true in my faith. Submitting ourselves to the Lord is all about changing our perspective. We trust God, we submit to Him, and He molds us like clay. He changes us so that our lives can also change. He does the heavy lifting so that we might find fulfillment.
I make progress only when I allow the Lord to change my perspective, and I have seen Him do it so many times! My view of Him and what He wants me to expect, my views of myself, my views of those around me, and my views of my career are just a few of the areas where I've made progress in the last year as I've submitted more and more fully to God's will for my life.
The fact is, the Gospel is all about thinking differently for the sake of progress. Christ's message is revolutionary. At it's center is a God who desires us, who pursues us, who gave His precious son in order to have a relationship with us. At the core, the Gospel is a message of unconditional love, of grace, and of redemption. It is a road map for a different way of life, a different way of thinking, that brings freedom and hope.
How are you letting the Gospel and the Lord change your perspective? How are you seeking out progress?
Today's Verses
Proverbs 3:3-6
Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
I make progress only when I allow the Lord to change my perspective, and I have seen Him do it so many times! My view of Him and what He wants me to expect, my views of myself, my views of those around me, and my views of my career are just a few of the areas where I've made progress in the last year as I've submitted more and more fully to God's will for my life.
The fact is, the Gospel is all about thinking differently for the sake of progress. Christ's message is revolutionary. At it's center is a God who desires us, who pursues us, who gave His precious son in order to have a relationship with us. At the core, the Gospel is a message of unconditional love, of grace, and of redemption. It is a road map for a different way of life, a different way of thinking, that brings freedom and hope.
How are you letting the Gospel and the Lord change your perspective? How are you seeking out progress?
Today's Verses
Proverbs 3:3-6
Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
Fighting Words
When the words we hear tear us down, the best response is the Word of God. The Bible calls us to meditate on the Word day and night. It helps us address our thinking and change our thought patterns to better align with God's truth. It tells us truths about ourselves and about the Lord. The Word is one way to fellowship with God, to spend time with Him, and to cultivate a deeper relationship with Him.
When we face trials and challenges of any kind, we can turn to the Word for guidance and advice. It soothes and encourages. It offers hope and assurance. It helps us fight back against destructive thoughts and obtain victory in Christ.
Are you meditating on the Word?
Today's Verse
2 Timothy 3: 16-17
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
When we face trials and challenges of any kind, we can turn to the Word for guidance and advice. It soothes and encourages. It offers hope and assurance. It helps us fight back against destructive thoughts and obtain victory in Christ.
Are you meditating on the Word?
Today's Verse
2 Timothy 3: 16-17
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
Tuesday, June 18, 2013
Commandments and Promises
A few months ago I wrote a post that mentioned that the command to 'fear not' occurs 366 times in the Bible. On Sunday, my pastor brought up this same fact. He mentioned that, in fact, the command to not be afraid is the most common command throughout the Bible. This command is so prevalent because we are so likely to be cowardly. However, the promise that follows this command, the most common of all promises that God makes in the Bible is 'I am with you'. How wonderful it is that the most common promise speaks directly to the most common command. God's most common promise is a direct response to our most common mistake. He is with us, we need not fear.
I take comfort in the fact that these things are so common. It means that I am not alone when I am fearful - we are all fearful, so much so, that the Lord has to remind us to not be afraid more than he reminds us to do anything else. I am also comforted that the Lord takes the time and effort to remind us that He is with us. He does not seem to tire of reminding us of his presence, even if we might feel as if we should have learned that lesson already. He meets us where we are, in our fear, and encourages us to be bold, knowing that He will not leave us or forsake us.
Are you feeling fearful today? I pray that you will be reminded that the Lord is with you wherever you go.
Today's Verses
Deuteronomy 31:6
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.
I take comfort in the fact that these things are so common. It means that I am not alone when I am fearful - we are all fearful, so much so, that the Lord has to remind us to not be afraid more than he reminds us to do anything else. I am also comforted that the Lord takes the time and effort to remind us that He is with us. He does not seem to tire of reminding us of his presence, even if we might feel as if we should have learned that lesson already. He meets us where we are, in our fear, and encourages us to be bold, knowing that He will not leave us or forsake us.
Are you feeling fearful today? I pray that you will be reminded that the Lord is with you wherever you go.
Today's Verses
Deuteronomy 31:6
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.
Monday, June 17, 2013
Teaming with Blessings
Several months ago my pastor discussed how God builds up teams around people. In other words, when we are reaching out to our peers and neighbors, we can trust that God has built a team around them. We are not alone in trying to reach our friends and peers for Christ.
The beautiful thing about these teams is that God doesn't just build teams around people who don't yet know Him. He builds teams around believers as well. Today I am so thankful for the team he has built around me. I know that, whether I am at my lowest or my highest, there are people around me who are there to support, encourage, and celebrate with me. The blessings God has placed in my life through my family and friends are innumerable, and I am basking in that knowledge today.
Who are you thankful for?
Today's Verse
Galatians 6:2
Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
The beautiful thing about these teams is that God doesn't just build teams around people who don't yet know Him. He builds teams around believers as well. Today I am so thankful for the team he has built around me. I know that, whether I am at my lowest or my highest, there are people around me who are there to support, encourage, and celebrate with me. The blessings God has placed in my life through my family and friends are innumerable, and I am basking in that knowledge today.
Who are you thankful for?
Today's Verse
Galatians 6:2
Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
Saturday, June 15, 2013
Earnest Rewards
A wise woman said something to me recently that gave me great comfort. I expressed my uncertainty about my future, and she responded, "There is no punishment for mistakes made while earnestly seeking the Lord."
I can't tell you what a relief it is to know that, even when I make mistakes, if I make them in the pursuit of the Lord, there is nothing to be ashamed of. I needn't fear punishment when I am actively attempting to walk according to God's will.
I have faith that, as I commit my way to Him, He will guide me. I have faith that the promptings of the Spirit will bear good fruit in me, so long as I keep my eyes fixed on the Lord.
Are you confident that the Lord will lead you?
Today's Verse
Psalm 34: 15,17
The Lord's eyes are toward the righteous. His ears listen to their cry. The righteous cry, and the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles
I can't tell you what a relief it is to know that, even when I make mistakes, if I make them in the pursuit of the Lord, there is nothing to be ashamed of. I needn't fear punishment when I am actively attempting to walk according to God's will.
I have faith that, as I commit my way to Him, He will guide me. I have faith that the promptings of the Spirit will bear good fruit in me, so long as I keep my eyes fixed on the Lord.
Are you confident that the Lord will lead you?
Today's Verse
Psalm 34: 15,17
The Lord's eyes are toward the righteous. His ears listen to their cry. The righteous cry, and the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles
Friday, June 14, 2013
Christ Alone
I'm trying to be thankful in all my circumstances, even when they are unexpected and even somewhat unwelcome. Challenges and struggles help to grow our faith, but they serve another purpose for me, as well. When I struggle and face trials, I experience greater humility. I am unable to handle things on my own, and any good that comes out of my circumstances has more to do with God's provision than my own power or strength.
Today I am embracing the opportunity to learn more about how much God can do for, with, and through me. I am letting go of the idea that everything I have, I have because I have earned it or because I deserve it. I am no longer relying on my skills or my own willpower to get by. Instead, I am placing my confidence in the Lord. I am relying on Christ alone.
Are you relying on the Lord more than you are relying on yourself?
Today's Verses
Deuteronomy 8: 17-18
He did all this so you would never say to yourself, "I have achieved this wealth with my own strength and energy." Remember the Lord your God. He is the one who gives you power to be successful, in order to fulfill the covenant he confirmed to your ancestors with an oath.
Today I am embracing the opportunity to learn more about how much God can do for, with, and through me. I am letting go of the idea that everything I have, I have because I have earned it or because I deserve it. I am no longer relying on my skills or my own willpower to get by. Instead, I am placing my confidence in the Lord. I am relying on Christ alone.
Are you relying on the Lord more than you are relying on yourself?
Today's Verses
Deuteronomy 8: 17-18
He did all this so you would never say to yourself, "I have achieved this wealth with my own strength and energy." Remember the Lord your God. He is the one who gives you power to be successful, in order to fulfill the covenant he confirmed to your ancestors with an oath.
Thursday, June 13, 2013
Not Good Enough
I spoke with a friend yesterday about how recent events in my life have me questioning my purpose and my worth. It's hard to feel washed up, worn out, and uncertain of where things are going. I told her that my fear at the moment is that I'm not good enough. My failings seem so huge, and told her that I question whether I'm good enough to move forward the way God is calling me to do. Her response, however brought all of those thoughts to a screeching halt.
She said, "Devon, Christ died for not good enough."
That is an incredible truth. There are many things that we are not good enough to do. We aren't good enough to save ourselves. We aren't good enough to make it on our own. We aren't good enough to accomplish God's work without His help. However, that is why we have Christ. Christ died so that we would never have to be good enough. He died, standing in our place, taking on what we deserved so that we could be spared.
In Christ, I am good enough. In Christ, I have worth. In Christ, my failings are washed away. In Christ, I can do anything.
Are you remaining in Christ and letting Him define how you see yourself?
Today's Verses
Hebrews 13: 20-21
Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
She said, "Devon, Christ died for not good enough."
That is an incredible truth. There are many things that we are not good enough to do. We aren't good enough to save ourselves. We aren't good enough to make it on our own. We aren't good enough to accomplish God's work without His help. However, that is why we have Christ. Christ died so that we would never have to be good enough. He died, standing in our place, taking on what we deserved so that we could be spared.
In Christ, I am good enough. In Christ, I have worth. In Christ, my failings are washed away. In Christ, I can do anything.
Are you remaining in Christ and letting Him define how you see yourself?
Today's Verses
Hebrews 13: 20-21
Now may the God of peace who brought up our Lord Jesus from the dead, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you complete in every good work to do His will, working in you what is well pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
Thinking on Themes
When I was 15 I went on a 6-week long missions trip. It challenged me in ways I never expected, right from the very beginning, and I was forced to rely entirely on the Lord. As part of the introduction process, we were asked to choose a Bible verse that we would memorize and meditate on throughout the trip. So, for the first time in my life, I thought about and chosen a 'life scripture'.
My life scripture is Philippians 4: 6-7. It reminds me that, regardless of my situation, I need not be anxious. Instead, I need to cultivate an attitude of thanksgiving, and be open with the Lord about what I need and want and how I feel. The Lord is ready and willing to grant me peace, and His peace will guard my heart and my mind.
I was reminded yesterday evening that the life scripture I chose serves a purpose, even now, 11 years after I first chose it. I am marveling at the way the Lord led me to a verse that continues to be applicable. As I face obstacles and challenges now, I take comfort that the words that brought me so much comfort back then bring me comfort now as well. I am so thankful that the Lord knew me, knew my life as it was and as it would be, and cared enough to bring me to a verse that I would continually return to.
Do you have a life scripture? Has it exemplified the themes of your life?
Today's Verses
Philippians 4: 6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
My life scripture is Philippians 4: 6-7. It reminds me that, regardless of my situation, I need not be anxious. Instead, I need to cultivate an attitude of thanksgiving, and be open with the Lord about what I need and want and how I feel. The Lord is ready and willing to grant me peace, and His peace will guard my heart and my mind.
I was reminded yesterday evening that the life scripture I chose serves a purpose, even now, 11 years after I first chose it. I am marveling at the way the Lord led me to a verse that continues to be applicable. As I face obstacles and challenges now, I take comfort that the words that brought me so much comfort back then bring me comfort now as well. I am so thankful that the Lord knew me, knew my life as it was and as it would be, and cared enough to bring me to a verse that I would continually return to.
Do you have a life scripture? Has it exemplified the themes of your life?
Today's Verses
Philippians 4: 6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Tuesday, June 11, 2013
Help My Unbelief
I consider myself blessed in my assurance and peace when things in my life go topsy-turvy. I find that, most of the time, I know, deep down, that God has things well in hand. I truly believe that He knows what He's doing in my life, and that I don't need to worry.
Then there are the moments when I fail to hold on to that assurance and peace. When I encounter a bump in the road, I sometimes find myself thinking 'if God has this handled, than everything will be ok', rather than knowing that God is definitely in control and that there is no reason to be concerned.
In these moments I feel like the man who asked Jesus to heal his son. When he asked, he asked Jesus to heal his son if He could. Jesus tells the man that everything is possible for one who believes. The man replies, "I believe, help me in my unbelief!" When I find myself filled with anxiety, when I lose sight of God's sovereignty, that is my prayer. I know that I believe, and I know that I struggle with unbelief. I know that all things are possible when I believe, and I want to get back to that place.
What makes you feel challenged and tempted to anxiety?
Today's Verse
Mark 9: 23-24
"If you can?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for one who believes."
Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!"
Then there are the moments when I fail to hold on to that assurance and peace. When I encounter a bump in the road, I sometimes find myself thinking 'if God has this handled, than everything will be ok', rather than knowing that God is definitely in control and that there is no reason to be concerned.
In these moments I feel like the man who asked Jesus to heal his son. When he asked, he asked Jesus to heal his son if He could. Jesus tells the man that everything is possible for one who believes. The man replies, "I believe, help me in my unbelief!" When I find myself filled with anxiety, when I lose sight of God's sovereignty, that is my prayer. I know that I believe, and I know that I struggle with unbelief. I know that all things are possible when I believe, and I want to get back to that place.
What makes you feel challenged and tempted to anxiety?
Today's Verse
Mark 9: 23-24
"If you can?" said Jesus. "Everything is possible for one who believes."
Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!"
Monday, June 10, 2013
Dwelling Place
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines 'dwell' as keeping your attention directed on or upon a specific thing. The Bible makes it clear that what we dwell upon is incredibly important. God dwells in us, and we are to make our dwelling place with Him.
It is tempting, however, to dwell in other places and on things other than the Lord. We dwell on our successes and our failings. We dwell in our earthly surroundings rather than the peaceful places the Lord provides.
The Psalmist states that his only desire is to dwell in the house of the Lord, to seek Him, and to experiences His beauty. I want that to be true in my life. I want to seek only the Lord, and dwell only with Him. There, I know I will find truth and peace.
Are you dwelling with the Lord and on godly things?
Today's Verse
Psalm 27: 4
One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple.
It is tempting, however, to dwell in other places and on things other than the Lord. We dwell on our successes and our failings. We dwell in our earthly surroundings rather than the peaceful places the Lord provides.
The Psalmist states that his only desire is to dwell in the house of the Lord, to seek Him, and to experiences His beauty. I want that to be true in my life. I want to seek only the Lord, and dwell only with Him. There, I know I will find truth and peace.
Are you dwelling with the Lord and on godly things?
Today's Verse
Psalm 27: 4
One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple.
Saturday, June 8, 2013
Joyful Obedience
The process of bringing yourself into a place of obedience and submission to the Lord can be arduous. It can be like walking through water - we can see the goal, and we want to get there, but there is a lot to slog through in order to reach it. The beautiful thing about obeying and submitting to God's will is that, when we do, there is a great deal of joy to be found.
Temptation says that we need to worry, even when we know we are doing as God intends. However, the Lord is clear. He will provide for those who are living according to His guidance. He cares for us as His children, and will not leave us or forsake us. Submission and obedience is hard work, but the result is freedom and joy.
Are you feeling free today?
Today's Verses
Matthew 11: 29-30
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.
Temptation says that we need to worry, even when we know we are doing as God intends. However, the Lord is clear. He will provide for those who are living according to His guidance. He cares for us as His children, and will not leave us or forsake us. Submission and obedience is hard work, but the result is freedom and joy.
Are you feeling free today?
Today's Verses
Matthew 11: 29-30
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.
Friday, June 7, 2013
Not Wasteful
I am reminded today that God is not wasteful. He doesn't waste time, skills, or people. He doesn't do anything without a purpose. Look at nature, at ecosystems. Each member, from the tiniest organism to the apex predator, has a role to play. How much more will He use us, created in His image?
When we enter periods of our lives where we can no longer see how our experiences connect, we need to remember that God is not wasteful. When He changes your direction, He isn't wasting your past. You needn't feel frustrated that you spent so much time doing one thing, only to have the Lord lead you to do something else.
God can see the big picture, even when we can't. He knows that our time and efforts haven't lacked purpose. God works all things together for good for those who love Him. When we find ourselves wondering why we've spent our time doing one thing, only to do something totally different later on, we need to remember that, even if we can't see it, God is working to make that time valuable to us. We can rest assured that that time served a purpose, and that God will not waste it.
Are you confident that your experiences have purpose?
Today's Verse
Proverbs 16: 9
In there hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.
When we enter periods of our lives where we can no longer see how our experiences connect, we need to remember that God is not wasteful. When He changes your direction, He isn't wasting your past. You needn't feel frustrated that you spent so much time doing one thing, only to have the Lord lead you to do something else.
God can see the big picture, even when we can't. He knows that our time and efforts haven't lacked purpose. God works all things together for good for those who love Him. When we find ourselves wondering why we've spent our time doing one thing, only to do something totally different later on, we need to remember that, even if we can't see it, God is working to make that time valuable to us. We can rest assured that that time served a purpose, and that God will not waste it.
Are you confident that your experiences have purpose?
Today's Verse
Proverbs 16: 9
In there hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.
Thursday, June 6, 2013
Sacrificial Obedience
We often want our obedience to God to be simple or easy. We don't necessarily want God's calling on our lives to disrupt what we are already doing. We don't want it to be scary or overly challenging. However, obedience to the Lord is about sacrifice. It's about putting God's will before our own, giving up things that hinder our obedience and distract us from what God wants from us.
The dictionary defines sacrifice as "the surrender of something prized or desirable for the sake of something considered as having a higher or more pressing claim" (source). Sacrifice is about cost. True sacrifice has a price we must pay. Sacrificial obedience is the surrender of things that we prize so that we might better serve the Lord and conform to His will.
It's not easy to give up the things we desire. It can be difficult to trust that God will meet our needs, and that we don't need those other things to feel fulfilled. However, God honors the sacrifices we make. Even when things look bleak, we are storing up treasures in heaven through our sacrificial obedience.
What is God calling you to give up today? Are you willing to sacrifice whatever He asks?
Today's Verse
2 Samuel 24: 24
But [David] replied..."No, I insist on paying you for it. I will not sacrifice to the Lord my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing."
The dictionary defines sacrifice as "the surrender of something prized or desirable for the sake of something considered as having a higher or more pressing claim" (source). Sacrifice is about cost. True sacrifice has a price we must pay. Sacrificial obedience is the surrender of things that we prize so that we might better serve the Lord and conform to His will.
It's not easy to give up the things we desire. It can be difficult to trust that God will meet our needs, and that we don't need those other things to feel fulfilled. However, God honors the sacrifices we make. Even when things look bleak, we are storing up treasures in heaven through our sacrificial obedience.
What is God calling you to give up today? Are you willing to sacrifice whatever He asks?
Today's Verse
2 Samuel 24: 24
But [David] replied..."No, I insist on paying you for it. I will not sacrifice to the Lord my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing."
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
Come, Follow Me
Faith can be characterized by our reactions to unexpected challenges. When God asks something new of us, how do we respond? I know my reactions tend to run the gamut from total avoidance, to reluctant acceptance, to wholehearted submission, depending on the situation. Regardless of how you handle these challenges, we can learn a valuable lesson from Matthew 8. A
disciple told Jesus he desired to follow Him, but that he first needed
to bury his father. Jesus responded saying, "Follow me, and let the dead
bury their own dead." How often do we tell God the same thing?
My most common reaction to new challenges from God is to put off submitting. I want to submit, just not right away. I say 'Okay, God, I'll do what you ask, but I have to do _________ first." In Matthew 4, when Jesus calls the first of the disciples, we see the ideal response to God's call. Jesus told Peter and Andrew to come, and they left their nets at once to follow him. They were in the middle of their work day, and they put everything aside to follow Jesus. They didn't ask for time to finish the task at hand. Instead, they recognized the value of the call Jesus placed on their lives, and they obeyed.
How can you be more like Peter and Andrew? Are you willing, right now, to do what God is calling you to do?
Today's Verse
Matthew 4: 18-20
As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. "Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will send you out to fish for people." At once, they left their nets and followed him.
My most common reaction to new challenges from God is to put off submitting. I want to submit, just not right away. I say 'Okay, God, I'll do what you ask, but I have to do _________ first." In Matthew 4, when Jesus calls the first of the disciples, we see the ideal response to God's call. Jesus told Peter and Andrew to come, and they left their nets at once to follow him. They were in the middle of their work day, and they put everything aside to follow Jesus. They didn't ask for time to finish the task at hand. Instead, they recognized the value of the call Jesus placed on their lives, and they obeyed.
How can you be more like Peter and Andrew? Are you willing, right now, to do what God is calling you to do?
Today's Verse
Matthew 4: 18-20
As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. "Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will send you out to fish for people." At once, they left their nets and followed him.
Monday, June 3, 2013
Sending You
When Jesus leaves the presence of the disciples (excluding Thomas) for the last time, He tells them that He is sending them out to minister to the people. He wishes them peace and breathes the Holy Spirit on them, ordaining them.
When we experience change in our lives or feel as though the Holy Spirit is prompting us to make changes, do we see it is as Jesus sending us as He sent the disciples? Being sent out, according to the passage, should be a peaceful endeavor where we attempt to be more like Jesus. We emulate His service to the Father when He sends us out to share the Good News. We are at peace because we are obeying His directives, we are more like Jesus because we are conforming our lives to His will.
Being sent out doesn't have to mean leaving your job, home, and family to strike out for the mission field in Africa. It does mean embracing the mission God has for you where you are. It means being willing to be uncomfortable for the sake of the Word. It means following God's leading and sharing His love with those around you.
Where or how is Jesus sending you?
Today's Verse
John 20: 21-22
Again Jesus said, "Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you. And with that he breathed on them and said, "Receive the Holy Spirit."
When we experience change in our lives or feel as though the Holy Spirit is prompting us to make changes, do we see it is as Jesus sending us as He sent the disciples? Being sent out, according to the passage, should be a peaceful endeavor where we attempt to be more like Jesus. We emulate His service to the Father when He sends us out to share the Good News. We are at peace because we are obeying His directives, we are more like Jesus because we are conforming our lives to His will.
Being sent out doesn't have to mean leaving your job, home, and family to strike out for the mission field in Africa. It does mean embracing the mission God has for you where you are. It means being willing to be uncomfortable for the sake of the Word. It means following God's leading and sharing His love with those around you.
Where or how is Jesus sending you?
Today's Verse
John 20: 21-22
Again Jesus said, "Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you. And with that he breathed on them and said, "Receive the Holy Spirit."
Sunday, June 2, 2013
Simple Sundays: Chicken Lettuce Wraps
This weekend, I was at my parents' house. One of the best things about being there is the opportunity to cook with my mom, who taught me everything I know about being in the kitchen.
Today's creation was chicken lettuce wraps, based on the dish from P.F. Changs. The recipe is as follows:
Ingredients for Wraps:
1 pound ground chicken
8 scallions, white and green part chopped
1 (8oz) can water chestnuts, drained, rinsed and chopped fine
1 red bell pepper, chopped fine
¼ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
2½ tablespoons hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
½ tablespoon fresh garlic
1 tablespoon water
2 teaspoons sesame oil
1 large head butter lettuce, wash, dried and leaves separated
Ingredients for Regular Dipping Sauce:
¼ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
½ tablespoon ginger (from a jar) or fresh minced ginger
1 teaspoon sesame oil
½ teaspoon garlic (from a jar) or fresh minced garlic
(For peanut dipping sauce, add 1 tbsp peanut butter)
Instructions
1. In a large pan, brown the ground chicken over medium-high heat, breaking up the pieces. Pour into a colander, in the sink and drain fat. Return chicken to pan. When cool enough to handle, break up the chicken pieces until minced.
2. Add the scallions, water chestnuts, red pepper, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, ginger, water and sesame oil. Cook for a few minutes until the scallions and red pepper are soft. Keep warm.
3. In a small bowl, add all the dipping sauce ingredients and mix well.
4. To assemble each chicken wrap: Spoon about ⅓ cup of chicken filling onto one lettuce leaf and roll it up, if desired. Serve with dipping sauce on the side. This sauce is quite strong. You’ll only need 1 teaspoon of sauce per wrap. You can also set up the components on individual plates and serve family style. Let everyone make their own wrap.
Makes about 16 lettuce wraps
(recipe originally found here)
Today's creation was chicken lettuce wraps, based on the dish from P.F. Changs. The recipe is as follows:
Ingredients for Wraps:
1 pound ground chicken
8 scallions, white and green part chopped
1 (8oz) can water chestnuts, drained, rinsed and chopped fine
1 red bell pepper, chopped fine
¼ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
2½ tablespoons hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
½ tablespoon fresh garlic
1 tablespoon water
2 teaspoons sesame oil
1 large head butter lettuce, wash, dried and leaves separated
Ingredients for Regular Dipping Sauce:
¼ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
½ tablespoon ginger (from a jar) or fresh minced ginger
1 teaspoon sesame oil
½ teaspoon garlic (from a jar) or fresh minced garlic
(For peanut dipping sauce, add 1 tbsp peanut butter)
Instructions
1. In a large pan, brown the ground chicken over medium-high heat, breaking up the pieces. Pour into a colander, in the sink and drain fat. Return chicken to pan. When cool enough to handle, break up the chicken pieces until minced.
2. Add the scallions, water chestnuts, red pepper, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, ginger, water and sesame oil. Cook for a few minutes until the scallions and red pepper are soft. Keep warm.
3. In a small bowl, add all the dipping sauce ingredients and mix well.
4. To assemble each chicken wrap: Spoon about ⅓ cup of chicken filling onto one lettuce leaf and roll it up, if desired. Serve with dipping sauce on the side. This sauce is quite strong. You’ll only need 1 teaspoon of sauce per wrap. You can also set up the components on individual plates and serve family style. Let everyone make their own wrap.
Makes about 16 lettuce wraps
(recipe originally found here)
Saturday, June 1, 2013
God Intends for Good
When Joseph encounters his brothers years after they sold him into
slavery, rather than condemning them, he tells them that everything they
intended for evil, God intended for good. He tells them that what they
did to him was actually the work of God.
Do we see struggle and conflict in our lives in the same way? Are we looking at the things in our lives as things that God is doing, or are we hoping He figures out how to use them for good after they happen? The impressive thing about Joseph's perspective is that he saw God as an active participant in his life. God didn't take what happened to Joseph and react, turning it into something good after the fact. Instead, God was involved in the process all along, and He always intended it for good.
Joseph's perspective is so much wider than our perspective tends to be. We see what is happening in our immediate vicinity and are unable to see how God might be working good through our trials. We cannot see farther down the road, where God will use us to accomplish His plans. We need to be more like Joseph, trying to see the bigger picture of our lives and of God's plans for us. We need to be open to the things that God is doing for our good, even when we don't feel good.
God is good, even when we can't see it. His plans for us are good, even when we don't understand them. He intends for us to do good things, even when we don't know what those things are.
Are you embracing a wider perspective today?
Today's Verses
Genesis 50: 20
You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.
Do we see struggle and conflict in our lives in the same way? Are we looking at the things in our lives as things that God is doing, or are we hoping He figures out how to use them for good after they happen? The impressive thing about Joseph's perspective is that he saw God as an active participant in his life. God didn't take what happened to Joseph and react, turning it into something good after the fact. Instead, God was involved in the process all along, and He always intended it for good.
Joseph's perspective is so much wider than our perspective tends to be. We see what is happening in our immediate vicinity and are unable to see how God might be working good through our trials. We cannot see farther down the road, where God will use us to accomplish His plans. We need to be more like Joseph, trying to see the bigger picture of our lives and of God's plans for us. We need to be open to the things that God is doing for our good, even when we don't feel good.
God is good, even when we can't see it. His plans for us are good, even when we don't understand them. He intends for us to do good things, even when we don't know what those things are.
Are you embracing a wider perspective today?
Today's Verses
Genesis 50: 20
You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.
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