Pools of Grace

Chosen to Be Blameless

2008-08-25T16:08:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture
Ephesians 1

Key Verse
For he chose us in him before the creation of the world
to be holy and blameless in his sight.

(Ephesians 1:4, NIV)

I sometimes leave dirty dishes in the sink. I have a tendency to kick off my shoes in front of the television and leave them there for days at a time. I don’t always put my laundry away as soon as it’s folded. I guess you could say that when it comes to keeping house, I’m something of a flawed individual.

When I lived on my own I didn’t have to worry about how someone else viewed my mess. But now that I’m married I hold myself to a higher standard. Why? Because my husband is neater than I am. I do my best to meet his expectations for a home that’s free from clutter and carelessness. Fortunately for me, I married a patient man. He knows that I’m not the perfect homemaker, but he treats me as though I am.

Spiritually speaking, living a life that’s holy and blameless is a bit like keeping a clean home. I do my best to be obedient to God because I know that my efforts to be holy and blameless please Him. I am God’s chosen child. He chose me knowing my flaws and imperfections. Still, he patiently and gently prods me to be a better person, holding me to a higher standard that all Christians are called to acknowledge.

Reflecting Pool

Where do you fall short in your spiritual life?

Do you think that God’s standard for our obedience is too high?

How does it make you feel to know that God sees your imperfections?

What's In Your Heart?

2008-05-02T03:23:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture
Psalm 193

Key Verse
Search me O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.
(Psalm 139:23, NIV)

Although we may be able to conceal our innermost thoughts and feelings from other people, we cannot hide them from God. For me, that is a comforting reality. I like knowing that even when my closest friends or family members are unable to understand my thought processes, God knows me better than I even know myself. From every tangled emotion that throws me off kilter to wordless prayers of inexpressible joy, God is present in all of it. He sees me and knows my heart at all times.

When I come before God in prayer, I am willingly standing before him exposed and vulnerable. This used to make me uneasy, but not anymore. I know that nothing he finds in my heart is surprising or shocking. He knows my anxious thoughts, the cares of my heart, and everything else that gets stored up internally in me. When I surrender my thoughts to him and ask him to test my anxious thoughts, he always brings about a feeling of peace and calm.

One of the ways God has tested me in the past with regard to my thoughts, is that he challenges me to trust him completely. He prompts me to respond faithfully to his offer to take my weighty load upon himself. No matter what is going on in my life, God can handle it. Unlike anyone else I lean on, God can completely shoulder the burden of the things that I let bother me. My heart's anxious and murky thoughts are skimmed away, leaving only a clear pool in which God's reflection can be clearly seen.

Reflecting Pool

Are you able to share what's in your heart with you friends?

What anxious thoughts do you share only with God?

How does it make you feel to know that your thoughts are not hidden from God?

Make Time for God

2008-04-14T21:37:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture
John 3:22-36

Key Verse
He must become greater. I must become less. (John 3:30, NIV)

Each day demands much from us physically, emotionally, and spiritually. God only gives us twenty-four hours in each day, and sometimes that can hardly seem like a long enough period of time. Too many times I have pulled an "all-nighter" trying to cram as much as possible into that brief amount of time between sunrises, but forgetting to focus on who it was that created each day.

The busier our lives are, the more we find ourselves placing God further into the recesses of our minds. Instead of spending 15 minutes in heartfelt prayer as we start our day, we are more likely to spend 15 minutes checking email, lingering over the morning news, or staring into the closet trying to decide what to wear. The problem is not that I fail to make time for God; rather, it is that I make too much time for other things. This should not be.

God absolutely must come first on my list of priorities. I believe that the wording of this particular verse bears noticing. It does not say "I must become less, He must become greater." No. Instead, it says, "He must become greater." God's place in our lives, no matter how busy and demanding life may be, is first and foremost. God desires and deserves a greater place in our hearts. In doing so we will find that he can fill us to overflowing with an abundance.

Reflecting Pool

Do the things with which you occupy your time fill your heart with contentment?

What are some of the things that you have put ahead of God?

Deep Diving

Think of one thing you can put off for the moment in order to focus on God. Dedicate some time to Him before the day is over.

Sharp Words

2008-03-27T20:22:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture

Proverbs 25:9-12

Key Verse

A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. (Proverbs 25:11, NIV)

I was standing in front of the mirror drying my hair when I felt stinging, burning sensation on my right shin. I reached down to scratch it and was shocked to discover that I was bleeding. The razor I had used to shave my legs had left a rather nasty gash, deep enough to require a band-aid. In my haste I hadn’t given enough consideration to my sensitive skin. The result was painful.

From time to time I am hasty with my words. I write or say things to someone without given enough consideration to how my words may be received. When that happens I end up hurting that person, sometimes to the point of putting a strain on our friendship. Unfortunately, there's no such thing as a band-aid to heal the deep gashes inflicted by our sharp words.

God has given us the gift of speech. We need to make sure that our words are aptly spoken, and presented to our brothers and sisters in such a way that they do not harm them. Even when we have an admonishment or words of caution for them, we need to ask God to give us the wisdom to speak our words in friendship and love.

Reflecting Pool

When have your words hurt a friend?

How have painful words caused you to feel humbled?

Do you ask God to set a guard over your mouth?

Life from Christ

2008-03-24T18:10:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture

Ephesians 1

Key Verse

In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding.

(Ephesians 1:7-8, NIV)

Christ's death on the cross, and His resurrection on the third day was the once and final sacrifice to make us blameless in the eyes of God. What then is it that motivates Christians to live obediently to God’s commands?

The motivation to live a life as blameless as possible comes from the realization of the magnitude of what Jesus' death and resurrection means. Because we have been given the free gift of grace, our lives should exemplify a heart of gratitude and an attitude of humility. Consider the following example:

Suppose I was in need of a double lung transplant. In order for me continue to live, someone else must die. Once receiving donor lungs, I would be expected by doctors to carry on a healthy lifestyle. How preposterous would it be for me to take us smoking? What if I decided not to take the prescribed anti-rejection medication? Doing so would not be consistent with an attitude that is grateful. Nor is such behavior indicative of appreciation for being given a second chance at life.

Through Christ God has offered us the gift of eternal life. We were already dead in our sins when he decided that we would send his son to restore us. More than two thousand years ago, he sent his son--flesh, blood, and breath--so that ultimately in his death we would be given the opportunity to live.

Believing in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus is a way for us to receive salvation as something of a "life transplant. And unlike with organ transplants, we need never fear the possibility of rejection! The gift of salvation is one that cannot be lost, and the gift of life in Christ is life eternal.

Reflecting Pool

How have you responded to the gift of life?

Is your attitudes or behaviors inconsistent with that of someone who is grateful for life?

Have you ever thought that you were "good enough" on your own? Why or why not?

Stranded

2008-03-21T11:22:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture
Luke 23:26-43

Key Verse
Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." Jesus answered him,
"I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise."
(Luke 23:42-43, NIV)

The fuel gauge was on E. Very E. I was pressing my luck and I knew it. My car being a hybrid, I thought it had enough power to cruise through Weinerschnitzel before I stopped at a gas station. I was wrong. Just as I pulled into gas station my car stopped, dead in its tracks.

One man saw my plight and came over to help. He pushed my car the last 100 feet or so to the pump. I thanked him for his assistance and he smiled politely and said “no problem, you’re welcome.” With a wave he got into his own truck and drove away.

I thought about that all night. Just as I was selfish and stubborn to think I didn’t need gas, so was the thief on the cross who didn’t think he had need of Jesus. The man’s life was about to end completely, still he refused to acknowledge and accept the one thing that could save him.

Then there was the other criminal. He knew he had reached the end of the line and made one final plea for mercy. Keenly aware of what he had done wrong, he resolved not to squander another breath until he asked salvation from the one man in their midst who had never done anything wrong. Christ forgave him and brought him into paradise.

I deserved to be stranded with my car because I hadn’t heeded the warnings that I was out of gas. Thankfully, someone came to my rescue and brought me to the place where I was out of harm’s way. Jesus had come to do just that. Whether we recognize it early in life or at the last minute, Christ has saved us from the punishment we deserve.

Reflecting Pool

When has your stubbornness gotten you into trouble?

Have you ever felt “stranded” spiritually?

Does your pride keep you from asking for help?

How has Christ saved you from being stranded in this world?

Christ Came for Me

2008-03-20T16:59:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture
Luke 15:1-6

Key Verse

Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it?
--Luke 15:4 (NIV)

As I look forward to the celebration of Christ's resurrection, I spend time reflecting on the magnitude of God's love for me. In the past I preferred to dismiss the gruesome reality of Jesus' crucifixion as the middle step in between Palm Sunday and Easter. By distancing myself in this way, I downplayed the power that Christ exhibited over death.

If I had been the only human on the face of God's earth, God still would have sent Jesus to die for my sins. As Christ hung upon the cross, abandoned by His own heavenly Father, He saw me in His mind's eye. He didn't just hang on the cross, He clung to it in order to give me the gift of eternal life.

He willingly stepped away from a place that knew no pain, to come to find me in the middle of mine. As author and speaker Dick Foth so aptly summarizes, "God left his place to come to our place, to take my place, so we could go to His place." Knowing that He died for the sins of the world doesn't impact me nearly as much as knowing that He died for mine. I am rocked to my core to realize that I am loved so intensely by the Creator.

Reflecting Pool

What would you do if something or someone precious to you was lost?

What is one way that God has reminded you of His love?

Do you believe that Christ died for you personally? How does that affect you?

Struggling and Learning

2008-02-23T01:42:00.000-08:00

Suggested Scripture
Daniel 11:1-35

Key Verse

Some of the wise will stumble, so that they may be refined, purified and made spotless until the time of the end, for it will still come at the appointed time. (Daniel 11:35, NIV)

Sometimes almost everything seems to go wrong. Some days the traffic is bad enough to make you late for work, the printer goes on the fritz, the crockpot isn't plugged in, and a favorite shirt shrinks in the wash. Other times we must deal with serious health issues, the loss of a friend, or the weight of a difficult decision can bring us to our knees.

When life causes us to stumble, getting back up can be difficult. God is still there to hold us and help us take another step. When God allows some things to be taken away from us, he may be doing so to remind us that we need to trust him more completely. Maybe he wants us to walk away from our current situation and trust him to meet our needs even as we face the unknown.

God uses the difficulties in our lives as an opportunity to show us things from a new perspective. From our humble position on our knees, we need to look up to God through prayer and ask him to help us identify the source of our problem, and then show us what we must do from there. He can take away the things that are causing us to stumble, but only when we ask him to.

No one likes to have a bad day in any form. We are quick to lose heart when bad days include heavy emotional or spiritual struggle. If we understand that God can use those times to teach us, we are more likely to persevere in the face of difficulty. Remember, God is always teaching us, even in the trying times.

Reflecting Pool

What is causing you to stumble today?

When God has brought you to your knees, how has he lifted you up again?

What is a lesson you have learned during a past trial? How can that help you with your current struggles?

New Desk, Old Desk

2008-01-18T16:12:00.000-08:00

Suggested Scripture:
Matthew 7

Key Verse:

For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds;
and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. (Matthew 7:8, NIV)

Several of my coworkers and I are being moved to a new office location this weekend. Part of our preparatory work has been to pack up our files and personal items, and draw diagrams of how we'd like our furniture to be set up in the new office. We were also given the option of ordering new furniture, which would be ready for us when we arrived. I opted for the new furniture. I put in my request on time, filled out the right forms and settled in with the rest of my packing, excited about how great the new stuff was going to look.

Today was moving day and upon my arrival at the office I was informed that the furniture I wanted was on back order. Instead of a nice shiny new desk waiting for me in the office next week, I would be sitting at someone's old desk. Considering that the alternative was no desk at all, I guess I'll have to make the best of things while I wait.

When we make our requests to God, waiting for his answer can be difficult. When we don't get the answer we want, or if we don't think God is dealing with us quickly enough, we let our emotions get the better of us. Instead of rejoicing at his provision, we grumble and complain, thinking that somehow we must not matter to God.

Instead of grumbling when God answers in ways that frustrate or confuse us, we should look for ways to rejoice in his provision. God cares about all of our needs, and blesses us in the ways that he knows to be best. When you find yourself sitting at an old desk when you were expecting a new one, just be glad you have a place to sit and get to work; the nicer furniture is on its way.

Reflecting Pool:

Have you ever felt like God has put you on hold?

When prayers aren't answered in the ways you expect, how do you cope?

What's something you've asked God for but didn't receive. What did he give you instead?

Seeking Out the Lost

2008-01-16T20:12:00.000-08:00

Suggested Scripture
Luke 15

Key Verse:
"Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? (Luke 15:4, NIV)

My parents’ dog, Spike, thinks he’s a lot bigger than he really is. For the most part, Spike is an indoor animal. At 3-pounds soaking wet, Spike is hardly capable of handling himself in the great outdoors, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t try. In Spike’s eyes, my Mom purpose serves only to feed him when he’s hungry, refill his water dish, and open the door when he needs to go outside to do his business. Every now and then, Spike gets a whiff of the wild, and runs at top speed in the exact opposite direction from where my mom is supervising him.

Rather than stand there, waiting for him to get scared and come running back, my mom will take off after Spike, calling his name. Fortunately, Spike’s legs are only about 3 inches long and don’t carry him very far before he is captured. As Mom brings him back to the house, he’s usually quite humble, as evidenced by his tail tucked between his legs.

We too are small creatures who forget our frailty. Even those who have a relationship with God and believe in the blessings and benefit of abiding in Him, will momentarily give into temptation and run in a direction that takes us away from God. We temporarily choose to disregard our need for God, and think that by doing things on our own, we’ll find something bigger, better, or more enjoyable. Rarely do we find such things apart from God, and we return to Him on our own, embarrassed and humbled from the experience. Sometimes we get lost out there, and when we do, God seeks us out and brings us safely home.

Reflecting Pool:

Have you ever run away from God? Why?

Did you ever have a difficult time finding your way back to God?

How has God protected you from your own foolishness by bringing you back to Him?

It's Not Just What You Wear

2008-01-10T21:51:00.000-08:00

Suggested Scripture:

Ephesians 6

Key Verse:
Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.
(Ephesians 6:13, NIV)

My dad used to have an amusing painting in the den. It depicted two cowboys one of whom was leaning against the saloon counter, wearing well-worn jeans, a plaid work shirt, crumpled hat, and of course, dusty boots. The fella next to him, obviously a city slicker or sorts, wore sunglasses, a spotless white Stetson hat, shiny bolo tie at the collar of his striped shirt. Jeans that were held up by a glimmering, sparkling belt buckle, and tucked into his never-been-worn before boots with a high heel. The caption on the painting has the first man saying to the city slicker "I can tell by yer outfit that yer a cowboy."

It's not how one dresses, but how one behaves that identifies who they are. Christians are not supposed to stand on ceremony and appearance, but rather, to behave obediently to God's commands. Christians are also instructed to be well prepared for the evil things of this world, and to rely on the armor and strength of the Holy Spirit to prop us up in the midst of attack from the evil one.

Our spiritual armor should always be in tact, but I hardly think it should still be shiny. It should bear the marks of the attacks we have endured. Each battle-scar on our armor serves to remind us of why we wear it, and the many ways and occasions in which God has protected us.

Reflecting Pool:

Do you wear your spiritual armor on a daily basis?

How has God protected you from spiritual attack?

Deep Diving:

Think of one your life's most difficult trials. Without the Armor of God to protect your vulnerable spirit, how do think you would fare?

Muffin Tops

2008-01-07T06:29:00.000-08:00

Suggested Scripture

1st Peter 1

Key Verse

Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled;
set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.
(1st Peter 1:13, NIV)

The recipe is hardly complicated: 1 egg, 1/4 cup of milk, and 1 package of Jiffy muffin mix. Bake at 400 degrees for 11 to 13 minutes. No matter how many times I've made those blueberry muffins over the years, I have rarely baked a batch that resulted in glorious, puffy muffin tops. My husband on the other hand, has never failed to produce wonderfully appetizing crowns when he bakes them. What was I doing wrong? The only difference between my husband's method and mine, is that he is patient. He waits the full 10 minutes for the oven to heat before sliding the muffin tin onto the center rack.

Patience. Self-control. These are things that don't always come naturally to us. Even in our relationships with God, we tend to be hasty at times. This should not be. God wants us to prepare our hearts and our minds for the day when we will see Christ. In addition to being watchful for the approaching day when Christ returns, we need to make the most of every opportunity to reflect on the incredible gift of grace.

Reflecting Pool

Are you ever hasty in your relationship with God?

What steps can you take to ensure that you don't take grace for granted?

Saying No to Temptation

2008-01-03T17:25:00.000-08:00

Suggested Scripture
Titus 2

Key Verse
“For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age,”
- Titus 2:11-12, NIV)

One of my biggest weaknesses is food. Having cystic fibrosis means that there are really no restrictions on what I can and cannot eat. Things that other people should have in moderation--salt, fat, carbs--I get to have in abundance. However, there are limits. I don't like being told I need to wait for something, or worse yet, that I cannot have it.

During a recent hospitalization, I was permitted to have only sips of water. I resisted and rebelled. I begged my husband to smuggle me some "real" food. A sandwich perhaps. Maybe even some crackers. Wisely, my husband told me "no" and patiently explained to me that although that might help satisfy my immediate hunger, disobeying doctors orders would likely result in a longer hospital stay, not to mention serious discomfort. His argument was convincing and I stopped asking for things I knew I shouldn't have.

When God provides for us, he meets our most basic needs. When we fully trust in Him and his plan to bring us good and not harm, we experience the fullness and satisfaction of peace. By grace we are given access to things that are far superior to that which the world has to offer. Things of the world may still appeal to our sinful nature and attempt to entice us into disobedience, but the strength we get from God is enough to prompt us to say "no," knowing that God has more for us than we can even imagine.

Reflecting Pool:

In what ways have you failed to say "No" in the past year?

Do you actively seek God's approval for the things you want to say "yes" to?

When has the failure to say "no" gotten you into trouble?

Peace for the New Year

2007-12-30T01:22:00.001-08:00

Suggested Scripture
John 16

Key Verse
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
- John 16:33, NIV

Many of us begin the New Year looking forward to a clean slate and the opportunity to start over. We attempt to put the failures and short-comings of the previous year behind us, and move ahead with high hopes and ambitions. But what do we do about those things that we cannot truly put behind us? What do we do when we're still in the midst of trials and struggles?

It's possible to experience peace even when our circumstances seem less than peaceful. Jesus promises us that the troubles of the world are not enough to keep him from granting us peace. When we put our hope and trust in God, we will never be disappointed. When we find ourselves struggling to keep anxiety, worry, and frustration at bay, we can take heart! Jesus Christ is big enough to take on the troubles of the world, and small enough to be near to us on a personal level.

What greater sense of peace could you want for the New Year?

Reflecting Pool

What troubles in your life are keeping you from feeling at peace?

Do you trust Jesus with all your anxieties and worry?

In what ways will you pursue peace in the New Year?

That Christmas Feeling

2007-12-14T23:34:00.000-08:00

Suggested Scripture:

Luke 2

Key Verse:

But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. (Luke 2:10:11)

As the checkout clerk at the grocery store waited for my lengthy receipt to print, I asked her if she was ready for Christmas.

"Not yet," she answered with a wistful sigh, "it's hard to get in the mood for it. I'm originally from Minnesota. Without snow it just doesn't feel like Christmas to me."

I couldn't relate on the matter of needing snow to complete my Christmas. Here in Southern California the holiday frequently coincides with Santa Ana winds more than any other type of weather. Meteorological conditions aside, I wondered if there really is a specific feeling to be experienced during this time of year. The following quote from Calvin Coolidge sums up the matter nicely: "Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas."

Although Christmas day is fast approaching, the celebration of Christ's coming will continue well into the New Year. Experiencing the greatest measure of joy in Christmas depends on more than a feeling. It depends on a state of mind. Fresh joy springs up in our hearts each day we are mindful of the reality of Jesus' birth. Peace, mercy and goodwill at the hand of our Creator God; these are the things that Christians have to celebrate when we commemorate Jesus' birth.

Christmas is more than meets the eye. It is about what and Who has met our hearts.

Reflecting Pool:

What sort of feelings do you associate with Christmas?

What are some specific things you can do to prepare your heart to have a meaningful celebration of Christ's birth?

Deep Diving:

Name three things you traditionally do during the Christmas season. In what ways (if any) do those traditions center around the true meaning of Christmas?

Obedience and Light

2007-09-17T17:39:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture:
Psalm 19

Key Verse:

The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes.
(Psalm 19:8, NIV)

Precepts are rules that describe particular courses of actions or a path to follow; they are guidelines for living a life according to the will of God. According to this verse, following his precepts gives joy to the heart. Who wouldn't have a joyful heart when they know they are doing things that please a person they love? That joy can be felt in a number of different ways. For me, joy comes wrapped in a calm, assured feeling.

People who earnestly walk in the ways of the Lord have beautiful hearts. They truly know the joy that comes from doing what is right in the eyes of God, and that joy spills out in various forms through all areas of life.

The commands of the Lord are radiant. Things that are radiant are by definition glowing and bright. This is true of God's commands because they are a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our paths (Psalm 119:105). God's commands illuminate the path that he sets out for his people. When his people are serving as lights, they can help light the way to God.

Reflecting Pool:

Do you feel a sense of joy when you obey God?

Do you think others see you as a source of light?

How has God illuminated your path as you have walked with Him?

Something to Drink

2007-09-13T20:58:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture:
Matthew 25:31-40

Key Verse:
"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you,
or thirsty and give you something to drink?
(Matt. 25:37, NIV)

The line at McDonald's was at least 11 people long and comprised mostly of high school students. The group of young men in front of me was busy counting their pocket change and studying the menu to see just how much food they could get for a few dollars.

"Hey man, buy me a cheeseburger," one said to his classmates.

"I can't, I've only got enough for me," came the reply.

"Man, I thought you were my friend!" responded the first boy. Undeterred, he approached another of his peers.

"Dude, c'mon, just buy me a cold drink."

I watched this exchange take place for several minutes. I considered buying the kid a soda just to shut him up. As I was about to place my order, I saw someone else out of the corner of my eye. His ragged figure was so slender and sunburned, I felt empathetic pain just looking at him. His worn out clothing, disheveled hair and beard were quite dirty. Behind his chapped lips he had no teeth.

Quietly, he spoke. "May I please have some water?"

The woman behind the counter disgustedly shoved a paper cup in his direction. I couldn't help but notice how small the cup was, and she hadn't even filled it to the top. Eager to return to the paying customers, she hardly even acknowledged the man. I heard him let out a weary sigh before heading back out the door. I wondered if he had anywhere to go, or if he'd had anything to eat that day. My instincts told me he had not.

What a contrast that man's request for water was to the student who was asking for a cheeseburger and soda. The one who didn't need the extra food was probably going to get it while that man went hungry. The man hadn't asked for much. As I watched him walk away, I prayed that God would meet his needs. I also asked God to forgive me not taking the opportunity to help my neighbor in need.

Reflecting Pool

Have you ever been too afraid to help someone?

Do you make the most of your opportunities to help others?

Do you feel entitled to the blessings God has given you, or do you accept His gifts humbly?

What is it that keeps you from giving to someone in need?

A Battle Unlike Any Other: Remembering 9/11

2007-09-11T08:22:00.000-07:00

Today's post originally appeared in the email version of Verse of the Day on September 11, 2001

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
(Ephesians 6:12 , NIV)

Today marks an historic day for our nation and the world. Undoubtedly you have all seen or heard reports of the terrorist attacks on the East Coast. It seems unreal that our country is experiencing this kind of horror and pain. I was encouraged tonight to hear President Bush quote Psalm 23 in his address to our nation. Several people had made outcries against President Bush for beginning his presidency with prayer; I'm sure that Christians and non-Christians alike will agree that we are now in a time of urgent need of prayer. I am thankful that God gave us a leader who knows the value and importance of prayer.

Today's events may cause us to lash out in anger at the people responsible for the attacks, and I anticipate an increased intolerance of people of middle-eastern origin. It is important for us to remember that today is, just as President Bush said, a result of evil. There is a great war being waged not only between countries, but in the hearts of people around the world. The enemy will no doubt use these circumstances to make people turn their anger toward God and perhaps even blame God for allowing such terrible things to happen.

God is in control, especially in the midst of all this chaos and horror. Our nation has been called to prayers, and that is exactly what the Christian community must do. This is a battle against the forces of evil in this world. It is not a political battle, nor is it an issue of race. It is God versus Satan, plain and simple, and God will ultimately wins. As a nation we are hurting and grieving for our loss, but even though we are walking through the valley of the shadow of death we will fear no evil!

What may seem overwhelming and difficult can be battled out with God on our side. The end of Ephesians 6 describes how we can prepare ourselves for battle. As we put on our armor, we must continue to pray in all occasions as it says in Ephesians 6:18. We need to remember that although the things of this earth, our flesh and blood, may be affected by the physical battles we wage, the real war is in the spiritual realms. God is with us and we will ultimately be on the winning side of the war when we put our faith in him. Evil may rule for a time, but in the last days, it will be annihilated. I pray that we will not grow discouraged in the meantime, but will continue to draw strength from God.

----

To those families who lost loved ones that tragic day, know that the entire country feels your loss. To those who now fight courageously and overseas, we thank you for your sacrifice. To our country's leaders, we pray that God will guide your decisions. May God bless America.

He Forgives and Forgets

2007-09-09T23:28:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture:
Ezekiel 16

Key Verse

Then when I make atonement for you, you will remember and be ashamed and never again open your mouth because of your humiliation, declares the Sovereign Lord.

(Ezekiel 16:63, NIV)

Sometimes I think that Christians trivialize the concept of forgiveness. We have a tendency to use God's grace and mercy in the plan for our salvation as a type of "Get out of Jail free card". We fail to recognize the the gravity of our mistakes and the consequences of our sins, because, after all, God will make it right again if we ask him to, won't he?

God never stops forgiving us. He never ceases to give us second chances. However, if we never pause to think about the incredible power of God's forgiveness, we take advantage of the forgiving nature of God. Not only does God forgive us when we mess up, he forgets! How amazing would it be if we could do that. We forget little things like people's names, phone numbers and where we put our car keys, but we seldom forget the times that someone has wronged us.

The ability that God has to completely forget our sins is amazing to me. I am humbled by the fact that I have wronged my Lord so many times, yet he forgets each one. That is a sobering thought, and a solemn one.

Reflecting Pool:

Which specific sins do you need to confess today?

Have you ever taken God's forgiveness for granted?

How does it make you feel to know that God not only forgives your sins, but forgets them?

Deep Diving:

Do you see yourself in the "Allegory of Unfaithful Jerusalem" depicted in Ezekiel Ch. 16?

God Satisfies

2007-09-07T06:35:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture:
Deuteronomy 8:1-18

Key Verse:
He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your fathers had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD.

(Deuteronomy 8:3, NIV)

During my workday I'm constantly noshing on Rold Gold tiny twists. This snacking habit is driven in part by caloric need, but also by a craving for salty snacks. In other words, not only is it a necessity, but also a source of pleasure. The only other habit I have that I need and enjoy is my time spent with God.

When I'm engaged in my personal quiet time with God, I read His word and communicate with Him through prayer. Some days I write about what I've read, and other times I choose to commit particularly meaningful verse to memory. There are days when my spiritual appetite is only enough to enable me to nibble at scripture, but there are others when I devour entire passages before I'm content. Whether I take in a little or a lot of God's word, I am always satisfied. God never fails to give me just the right amounts of what I need at the appropriate times.

It has been said that hunger is the best seasoning. It can be tempting to attempt to fill our emptiness by ingesting whatever looks the most appealing at the moment. Only God can provide the satisfaction we don't even realize we crave. As I have hungered and thirsted after Him for all these years, I have been blessed in tremendous ways. I've tasted and I've seen that the Lord is good.

Reflecting Pool:

Do you regularly feed on God's Word?

How does God satisfy your spiritual hunger?

What aspect of God's righteousness or His character "tastes" the sweetest to you?

Purifying the Heart

2007-09-06T23:02:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture:
James 4

Key Verse:

Come near to God and he will come near to you.
Wash your hands, you sinners,
and purify your hearts you double-minded.
(James 4:8, NIV)

How then can we begin to close the gap that yawns between us and God? Our first step is to come clean. By coming clean, I mean we need to realize that we cannot hide anything from God. He already knows our comings and our goings both for now and forever. He knows our innermost thoughts and secrets-- things we sometimes barely even acknowledge unto ourselves. To come clean before Him means that we come to Him with the full realization that we are unworthy.

Submitting to God involves openly admitting we are sinners. As we lay before Him our faults and failures, our hearts begin to be purified of all unrighteousness. We must ask God to rid us of false pride as we confess our sins. A heart that has been purged of sinfulness is available to accept God's forgiveness. It is within that forgiveness that God speaks his love to us and purifies our hearts all the more, washing us in the pools of His grace.

Let us purify our hearts to make room for the love God has to give. Let us stop pursuing our ambitions thinking that there are material things or even personal relationships that will fulfill us. God has so much to offer if only we would ask.

Reflecting Pool

What comes to mind when you think about being purified?

Do you feel close to God? Is your heart free and available to be filled with His love?

Of the things mentioned in James, Chapter 4, which one(s) keep you from having a close relationship with God?

Crying Out to God

2007-09-05T05:11:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture
Psalm 34

Key Verse
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. -
(Psalm 34:18, NIV)

Of all the different things in life that have the potential to affect us, the things that carry the most weight tend to be those that affect the heart. The Bible refers to the heart as the "wellspring of life", and to to guard it above all else. With that in mind, it is little wonder that when the heart hurts, the rest of the body aches as well.

The Psalmist writes that God is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. A person's heart, in the emotional and spiritual sense, is a place where secrets and dreams are kept. The pain of a broken heart is as unique as its contents. We can take comfort in the fact that a God who is so large and powerful demonstrates his love on such an intimate and personal level when He mends those brokenhearted ones among His creation.

When we hurt, we can cry out to Him. We can lay our souls bare before Him without the fear of shocking Him or making Him uncomfortable in any way. Where friends fail, God is faithful. When our own emotions overpower us, God draws us near to save us from ourselves. Time and time again, we can run to Him with our heartaches, knowing that He will never hesitate to wipe our tears and tell us that He loves us. We can find peace in knowing that He is the best one to heal a broken heart.

Reflecting Pool

How has your heart been broken?

What ways have you tried to heal your brokenness? Did it work?

When you are crushed in spirit, do you find it easy or difficult to cry out to God?

Silent Communication

2007-09-03T15:03:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture:
Job 37

Key Verse:
God's voice thunders in marvelous ways; he does great things beyond our understanding. (Job 37:5, NIV)

Does God still speak to His people? The Bible tells us that He spoke audibly to many, including Moses, Elijah, and the crowd present at Jesus' baptism. These days, however, God is perceived as relatively silent. Many wonder why He doesn't communicate with us using an audible, unmistakably clear voice.

God moves not only in mysterious ways, but in silent ones. He spoke the world into being, but it is the silent aspect of His conversations with His creation that keep our earth ever changing and ever moving. Wordlessly, he tells the flowers when to bloom, the clouds when to rain, and the moon when to shine. He shouts His love to us in something that is quieter than the softest of whispers.

A co-workers once shared with me his idea that our efforts to create words to represent thoughts and feelings do a great disservice to their very essence. He said there is a distinct piece of our self that gets lost when we use words. As I thought about that, I wondered if maybe that is why God, for the most part, doesn't use audible words. Maybe we can understand Him--His heart, His being--by tuning in to the ways he speaks to us in silence.

Reflecting Pool:

Do you sometimes wish that God used an audible voice?

How has God spoken to you in silent ways?

Do you believe that God's power is communicated in soundless ways? (Read Romans 1:20 if you're unsure.)

Why I Trust God

2007-09-02T15:13:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture:
Romans 8:18-31

Key Verse:

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, nor angels nor demons, nor things present nor future, nor height nor depth, nor any other thing in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

(Romans 8:38, NIV)

Throughout my life I have become more increasingly convinced that of the truths in this verse. No matter what the situation, or circumstances, God's love never ceases or fails. Even in the most fearful of places, we are not separated from His love. God is faithful to sustain us in every painful moment or hurting heartache.

Even in death, God's love sustains us. Death's sting cannot touch us or hold us if we are believers. In fact it is through death that believers are given a new life as we are welcomed into the presence of the Almighty God. For the Christian, death restores us to the perfect life God had in mind for us all along.

Angels nor demons cannot tear us from the grip of Christ's love for us. No created being (human, angel or demon) is as strong as the Creator. He holds us to Him with the tightest grip, ensuring that no lasting harm can come to us. Height and depth are unable to remove us from the reach of his loving hands. The Psalmist says that God's hand holds us fast even if we "rise on the wings of dawn" or "settle on the far side of the sea".

Jesus himself went to the greatest of depths by descending into hell all for the purpose of demonstrating his love for us. His love for us was present there, and is present now as he sits in the highest of heights on his throne in heaven.Nothing else in all of creation can separate us from God's love that is in Christ Jesus. All created things are subject to the Creator. We have no reason to fear anything because of the faithful promises that God has made to those who love him.

I am convinced that God has kept all of the promises mentioned in this verse, and is therefore worthy of my trust.

Reflecting Pool

When have you felt separated from God?

Do you trust Him to be near to you all times?

Are you convinced of these things just as Paul was? If not, why?

Consecrate Yourself

2007-08-31T12:47:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture
Joshua 7

Key Verse

Go, consecrate the people.
Tell them "Consecrate yourselves in preparation for tomorrow; for this is what the Lord the God of Israel says: That which is devoted is among you O Israel.
You cannot stand against your enemies until you remove it."
(Joshua 7:13, NIV)

This verse is taken from the description of what was happening to Israel just before Joshua led them into the Promised Land. God had been telling his people for generations that this day would come and that they would experience victory. However, the Israelites needed to exercise some faith that God would truly follow through on that promise. They needed to trust him completely, even if his methods seemed a little odd.

The children of Israel are being reminded that they need to fully rely on God and put Him first. God is to be the number one focus in their lives, in spite of the fact that they were on the eve of a tremendous change. They were not to allow themselves to become distracted by visions of glory, nor were they to focus solely on the loot they were about to obtain by invading Jericho.

Entering the Promised Land was a success for God's people. God caused the walls of Jericho to completely collapse, allowing the Israelites to walk in and take the city. Unfortunately, some of the people kept some of the treasures of Jericho, even after being explicitly warned by God not to do so. He asked that they give certain "devoted things" to the church's treasury. By not doing this, a few people invoked God's judgment, which prevented them from winning the next battle. When contemplating the loss, the Israelites asked God why he had not given then a victory like they had tasted at Jericho, and God reminded them to get rid of the distractions (the plunder) before he would help them out.

Sometimes it is easy for us to become distracted by material things. We also have a tendency to think that we bring about success in our lives through our own actions. We need to realize that we can do nothing without God. We need to give him the full credit and glory for everything, and keep nothing back for ourselves. Our God is incredibly powerful; we have no excuse for putting earthly things ahead of him on our list of priorities.

Reflecting Pool:

What things get in the way of you focusing solely on God?

Do you trust God for your success?

How can you eliminate worldly distractions in order to be more spiritually devoted to God?

Crashing Waves

2007-08-30T00:18:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture:
Psalm 46

Key Verse

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.
(Psalm 46:1-2, NIV)

Three surfers went into the ocean to ride the 12 foot hurricane swells at Boca de Pascuales. One rode a wave for some time before he lost his balance and fell. He broke his neck as a result of the force of the ocean pummeling his body. - The second surfer tried to duck under the wave, hoping to come up again on the other side. The waves kept coming--too large and too frequently--and he was held under so long that he drowned. The final surfer rode the wave to shore, his adrenaline overriding his sense of fear. He knew that reaching the shore safely was dependent on his ability to stay firmly balanced on the board. All three were good surfers. All three felt fear, but only one survived. (By the way, that third surfer happens to be a co-worker of mine.)

Sometimes life's hurricanes kick up large waves that can come crashing down upon us. Into every life a little rain must fall, and that rarely become a life-threatening situation. But what do we do when the storms keep coming? How do we keep from drowning when powerful waves force our heads to dip below surface for long periods of time? How do we keep our balance in a precarious position, knowing that one wrong move could result in a broken neck?

We can start by strengthening our relationships with God. He may not directly remove us from a painful or difficult situation, but he promises that he will be our constant strength and help. Every moment that we spend with him when life seems trouble-free, is a chance for us to allow him to equip us to face inevitable challenges.

Reflecting Pool:

Do you find yourself currently in the midst of one of life's storms?
Does that frighten or worry you?

What do you do to keep from being overtaken by life's storms?

How has God delivered you in the past?

Healing the Hurts

2007-08-29T10:46:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture

Hebrews 10:19-38

Key Verse:

Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
(Hebrews 10:25, NIV)

The body of Christ is just that--a body. It's an intermingling of abilities and functions, all serving a common purpose, which is life. When damaged occurs by illness, injury or infection, the rest of the body works extra hard to compensate for the loss. In time, the hurt begins to heal and the body is whole and strong again.

I have found the same is true in my own life as a member of the church. When I'm having a rough time, my closest and dearest friends offer me help and support out of their storehouses of spiritual health. When I am too weak to pray for my own needs, my Christian brothers and sisters step in and pray for me. Through phone calls, emails, even a surprise visit or two, I am reminded of how much value I have as a part of the greater body. Eventually, my spiritual aches and pains are soothed, and I am able to return to a fully functioning Christian again.

Because God is not physically present in our lives at this moment, each member of the Christian community serves as an extension of his love. Within a body of believers, we can always find someone to give us a hug when we're having a bad day, godly advice in a difficult situation, or a voice of encouragement for our walk with God. Every one of us needs to participate in this form of Christian fellowship so that we are available to love one another in unique ways on a daily basis. We model Christ's love best when we are healing the hurts of our brothers and sisters.

Reflecting Pool:

1. Do you find it difficult to ask for help when you're hurting?

2.How has the church been helpful to heal your hurts?

3. What is something you can do to be a blessing to a member of the church who may need some spiritual or emotional healing today?

Chasing the Wind

2007-08-08T02:23:00.000-07:00

Better one handful with tranquility than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind. --Ecclesiastes 4:6, NIV

I'm breaking format today in order that I might share with you a poem written in memory of David Matthieu, our friend who recently went home to be with the Lord. We had only known him a short while, but God saw fit to teach us much through that friendship.

Chasing the Wind

He said "I feel like I'm chasing the wind.
I want so much to be free.
How can I have peace? How can I be sure
God's grace is meant for me?"

We shared with him our own struggles
and told him how our faith gets me through.
And by his warm smile I could tell I'd connected,
David's heart was being tuned.

We had only meant to encourage,
to be friends on whom he could lean.
We couldn't have know that the seeds we'd sown
God would soon be harvesting.

If he had chased the wind forever
could he have somehow been able to find
the holy secrets and mysteries
and the reason why God gives us life?

All that season his faith grew strong;
He set aside fear and worry.
He learned that God had a plan to bring relief
and that life should not be hurried.

The day that it happened we'll never quite know;
perhaps it's better that way.
We feel a sense of loss without David,
and we hear whispering breezes say:

He couldn't chase the wind forever,
once he was able to find
the holy secrets and mysteries
and the path to eternal life.
He's no longer chasing the wind,
breezes are only on earth.
He's at peace, David's been set free,
He's no longer chasing the wind.

We cannot chase the wind forever
there's so much for us to find,
hidden in the mystery of God's great love,
and the promise of eternal life.

-Ologists

2007-08-06T00:18:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture:
1 Corinthians 12:1-27

Key Verse:

The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts;
and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with Christ.
1 Corinthians 12:12 (NIV)

Because I have cystic fibrosis, my doctor appointments are a lot more involved than most other people's. Cystic fibrosis affects many different parts of the body, so a variety of specialists are usually involved in my care. A pulmonologist and respiratory therapist monitor my lung health. A nutritionist or dietitian oversees my food intake and weight management. On occasion other specialty doctors are brought in as the need arises. I've seen gastroenterologists, endocrinologists, otolarynxologists, psychologists, and just about every sort of 'ologist' you can imagine.

Although each specialist is trained in a specific area, they (and I!) must rely on the expertise of the other doctors who are part of my health care network. They are all a vital component of what it takes to keep me as healthy and high-functioning as possible. Without their continued attention to me and their commitment to excellence in medicine, I would struggle.

Similarly, I would struggle with my spiritual life were it not for the church--the body of believers. God has equipped each of those parts with unique personalities, talents, and strengths. The church works most effectively as a team, combining individual characteristics to ultimately form a whole that is undoubtedly stronger than the sum of its parts. As Christians we are part of a team—the body of Christ. Because of this, we should exemplify an attitude of humility and strive to contribute to the whole in the most beneficial way possible. This is especially important when we consider how to influence others to draw them into God’s family

As individuals we are sometimes tempted to think that we are much more powerful and influential than we really are. Our society places a large emphasis on individuals rather than teamwork. Consider the recent slogan for the Armed Forces which says “An Army of One”. An army is not a single person, nor is Christ’s church any one person. When we lay aside our egos and become team players, Christ is honored, and we his teammates share that joy with Him.

Reflecting Pool

In what ways do you contribute your gifts and abilities for use in the body of Christ?

Do you ever struggle with thoughts that someone else's gift may be superior to yours?

If you aren't already, what are some ways you can become more involved at church?

Deep Diving

What should your overall goal and purpose be as a member of the body of Christ?

Lighting the Way

2007-07-30T23:58:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture:
Psalm 119:105-112

Key Verse:

Your word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.
(Psalm 119:105, NIV)

I'm a planner. I like to know ahead of time how things are going to go and what I can expect in a typical day. Unfortunately, life doesn't always work out according to plan. Someone once said that "life is what happens when you're busy making plans for something else."

Over the years I've learned more about how to let God take my plans and conform them to His. I admit, at times that can be scary. Venturing out into the unknown tends to make my heart pound a bit. Despite my initial fears, I know that I am not left to fumble around in the dark on my own. God's Word lights my way, and illuminates my path. A little bit at a time, the darkness is pushed aside to make room for God's plan to unfold before me.

I take comfort in the fact that though I may not always know where I am going, at least I have God's light to help me see the next place to put my foot. As Christians we can rest assured that even in or darkest times, God is lighting our way. We may not be able to see too far ahead, but we can press on knowing that we are lovingly being led. We must hold onto the belief that God is in control and that he is working through our lives even when we do not understand what is happening.

Reflecting Pool:

How do you cope with venturing into the unknown?

When has something unexpected happened in your life, that completely changed your plans?

Are you comfortable only seeing a small piece of the plan at a time? If not, why?

Experiencing Spiritual Burnout?

2007-07-25T21:28:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture
77:1-24

Key Verse

Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter,
you will restore my life again;
from the depths of the earth you will again bring me up.
You will increase my honor and comfort me once again.
(Psalm 77:20-21, NIV)

Everyone burns out at one time or another. To expect otherwise would be unreasonable. Because we live in a world where strength and power are praised, many of us do our best to hide our insecurities and shortcomings. We often go to great lengths to exaggerate our strengths and downplay our weaknesses. This contributes to spiritual burnout.

There are times when my physical health isn't as strong as I would like it to be. During those times, my spiritual health can also wane. Although such times of weakness feel like they last for far too long, I know that each and every time God has given me a new point of view and a new way to trust in Him. I have learned that it is okay to be weak just so long as I remember that there is One who enables me to be strong.

The very fact that I cannot do certain things on my own only serves to emphasize that Christ is the One who works through me. If I never struggled with anything, I would never learn anything. If the path I walk as a Christian never tripped me up, I would never spend as much time on my knees in prayer as I do. Being strong has nothing to do with me, but everything to do with God.

Reflecting Pool

Are your present trials causing you to feel spiritually burned out?

When you feel weak, what makes you feel strong?

Do you trust God to comfort you and restore you?

The Comfort of a Friend

2007-07-24T00:26:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture
Job 2:1-13

Key Verse
Then they sat on the ground with him for seven days and seven nights. No one said a word to him, because they saw how great his suffering was.
(Job 2:12-13, NIV)

When I thought about whom I wanted to stand beside me as bridesmaids at my wedding, the choices were clear. Family ties aside, each of the young women I selected had proven time and again to be a loyal and loving friend. Inviting them to serve as witnesses to that wonderful triumph of God's providence in my life was appropriate, since they had also weathered the storms of life's tragedies with me.

My dearest and closest friends have seen me at my best and at my worst. Over the years we have leaned on one another for comfort and compassion in times of trial. We have shared sincere joy, celebrating with laughter and hugs. The thing I appreciate most about my friends is that they know my heart and I know theirs. Whether or not we have the right words for a particular situation is unimportant. What matters most is that we know we can count on each other to be there, even when things get tough.

Were it not for the comfort and compassion of close friends and loving family, life's challenges would be too much to bear. Job's friends may not have known exactly how to respond to his pain and suffering, but they cared enough about him to sit beside him. They reassured him simply by showing up, even without being asked to do so. They gave up their own comfort for an entire week so that they could mourn with a friend.

Reflecting Pool

Are your friends the type you can lean on when things get tough?

What do you appreciate most about your closest friend?

Do you find it difficult to reach out to your friends when they are hurting?

Comfort for Underdogs

2007-07-23T18:29:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture

Isaiah 40:1-31

Key Verse

He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
(Isaiah 40:29, NIV)

The term “underdog” is one that is applied by observers based on external evidence and past performances. When the secular world looks at us Christians, they may deem us weak, saying that we use religion or our faith as a crutch. They may conclude that we are naïve for believing in someone we cannot see. The world would like us to believe that living selflessly makes us losers.

Those who were seemingly the underdogs of the Bible have claimed a respected place in what is sometimes referred to as the “Faith Hall of Fame” found in Hebrews 11. What the world perceived as notable disadvantages proved to be a winner's edge when it came to the overall game plan. Read the details for yourself in the stories of Noah, Abraham, and others in Hebrews 11.

For all intents and purposes, we are underdogs—in an earthly sense. Fortunately, we know there is more to life than the present moment. We are able to see the bigger game plan that includes the spiritual world. The spiritual world is the one where we find God’s playing field, and it is there that we are undoubtedly favored to win.

Reflecting Pool

In what ways do you feel like you're an underdog in the world?

When do you find yourself most discouraged?

As you read Isaiah 40, what comforts you the most about what God promises to do for His people?

He Will Carry You

2007-07-20T10:31:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture
Psalm 55

Key Verse
Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.
(Psalm 55:22, NIV)

The news hit me will so much force it took my breath away. One of my friends in the cystic fibrosis community has finally succumbed to the disease. Her fight was over. She left behind a loving family and many, many friends. We are trusting God to carry us through so we can carry on.

A few years ago, I wrote this poem to encourage some friends who had experienced a tremendously painful loss at a time that should have been very joyful. I hope that it offers some encouragement to anyone struggling to find their footing after having to make a heart-wrenching 180 degree turn around because of life's circumstances. I know from personal experience that God really does carry us when life gets all turned around. When everything else is out of control, he remains steadfast and can be our comfort when we cast our cares on him.

"He'll Carry You Through"

In one heartbeat, lives are changed forever.
In an instant, dreams fall down with tears.
From that moment nothing is the same again
and in that second, God sees all your fears.
And he knows the hurt,
and he knows your pain.

And he knows that you don't know what to do.
He sees you on your knees
Asking Him to be your strength,
'cause you know he will carry you through.

He will carry you
through the trials and pain that you face.
He will carry you
when you lose the strength to run this race.
I know he will carry you through.
In his loving arms, he'll carry you through.

In a second your plans fell apart.
In a flash, your world lost its spin.
In a moment your heart broke in half
and now you want it to be whole again.
In that brokenness God holds you close,
wipes stray tears away.

With each day, he's lifting you
he promises you a future
and hope within his plan.
Each day he will carry you through.

He will carry you
through the trials and pain that you face.
He will carry you
when you lose the strength to run this race.

I know he will carry you through.
In his loving arms he'll carry you through.

Reflecting Pool

When have you needed to be carried in God's arms?
Do you find it difficult to believe God is there for you when bad things happen?
What painful things do you need God to carry for you today?

Combined Effort

2007-07-17T10:25:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture:
Deuteronomy 33:1-29

Key Verse:

Blessed are you, O Israel! Who is like you, a people saved by the LORD ? He is your shield and helper and your glorious sword. Your enemies will cower before you, and you will trample down their high places. (Deuteronomy 33:29, NIV)

When I was younger I enjoyed watching the cartoon Captain Planet. Each episode was a story o 5 young men and women who had been given extraordinary powers that they used to battle an array of Eco-Villains. There came a point in every battle where the Planeteers would need to pool their individual gifts--earth, fire, wind, water, and heart--to summon Captain Planet himself and defeat injustice and evil.

That popular Saturday morning program was a reminder of how God works in the lives of His people in order to impact the world. Each of us has a unique calling in life. God speaks to each of us individually in unique ways. He also draws us together with one common purpose. Sharing His Word with others happens only when we respond faithfully to His call, and combine our gifts and talents. There are times when He shows us quite clearly what it is we are to do. Other times He points us in a particular direction and from there we must rely on the prompting of the Holy Spirit to help us see where it is we are to go. What matters most is not how well we understand God when he calls us, but that we respond.

Whether we know exactly what God has in mind or not, we must voice our availability to be used by Him as as soon as He asks. When He calls our name and points us in a particular direction, we must step forward dutifully and say "here am I." We can do this without fear because we know that God will be with us every step of the way as we serve Him; it's His plan, we're just along for the ride. Just as the twelve tribes of Israel were blessed by Moses, we too are blessed to be part of God's chosen people. Captain Planet used to conclude each episode by reminding viewers that when it comes to saving the world, "The power is yours." As Christians we must keep in mind that the power to save mens' souls comes from God.

Reflecting Pool

Do you ever feel that God cannot use you on an individual level?

How have you seen God demonstrate His power through the combined energy and efforts of His people?

Is it difficult to remain humble when you see God use you for mighty things?

Where Past and Future Are Present

2007-07-15T23:58:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture

Genesis 1:1-31

Key verse

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. (Genesis 1:1, NIV)

I had begun to doubt that God really cared for me. So many trials had been heaped upon my head, that I felt certain that I was the victim of some spiritual injustice. In my anger and frustration I started to turn my face away from God. I figured that if I wasn’t worth His attention, then why should I give Him any of mine? The foundation on which I had built my life had been seemingly torn asunder.

How was I ever going to rebuild it? Could such a feat even be accomplished in one as broken as I?

In the midst of my darkest hours, I was offered hope. The man who is now my husband reached out to me and invited me to stand with him on his foundation. He assured me that God was in control and all I need to do was remember his promises. At the time I could hardly remember those promises, let alone cling to them.

Instead of a promise, I found a truth. The first four words of Genesis: in the beginning God. God was present before time began. He who is infinite was there to lay the foundations of the earth. I realized that I didn’t need to wait for a promise to be fulfilled for me. I didn’t have to wait for some future event to know that God is real. He has always been.

Being reminded of God’s ability to create the world from total void assured me that He could most certainly create a new foundation for me. My footing is now firmly rooted in Jesus Christ. Because of that fact, my future glory is my present hope.

Reflecting Pool

Do you sometimes feel as though God isn’t with you in the present moment?

Has your foundation ever needed to be rebuilt?

How do you cling to hope when you feel your future is uncertain?

Digesting Spiritual Food

2007-07-12T22:28:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture
Psalm 63

Key Verse
My soul will be satisfied as with the richest of foods; with singing lips my mouth will praise you. (Psalm 63:5, NIV)

One of the complications of having cystic fibrosis is that my pancreas doesn't secrete enzymes. Without enzymes, my body cannot properly break down the food I eat. In order to get the beneficial vitamins, minerals, and calories out of what I eat, I take enzyme supplements with every meal. Without them I would be severely malnourished and underweight, even though I eat frequently.

If I were to rely on myself to accurately interpret God's Word, I would certainly be spiritually malnourished. In order for me to get the most out of reading the Bible, I need to prepare my heart and my mind to receive its message. I do this by praying that God will reveal to me, through the work of the Holy Spirit, how I am to apply what I read.

God is faithful to give us our daily bread, but are we being fully strengthened by it? Simply reading the Bible is only the beginning. The only way to grow and mature in our relationships with God is to eat plenty of the good stuff He provides for us. Digesting the Word completely means studying it, discussing it with others, and listening to what my spiritual leaders have to say about it. There are so many different tools available to me to ensure that I am not only adequately fed, but properly nourished as well.

Reflecting Pool

Spiritually speaking, are you well nourished or just well fed?

When do you get the most benefit from your time reading God's Word?

Do you take time to think about how to apply what you read?

Handling Temptation

2007-07-12T00:00:00.001-07:00

Suggested Scripture

1 Corinthians 10:1-13

Key Verse

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 10:13, NIV)

Grocery stores are designed in such a way that the most basic staples of nutrition are displayed around the perimeter of the store. Nearly every store is the same; bread, produce meat, dairy--all of it can be obtained without venturing down any aisles. Store managers want us to go down the aisles though. They want to turn a sizable profit on every over-priced bit of junk food that we consumers willingly purchase. They know we are easily drawn in by large, colorful displays at the end of the aisles, and other devices of clever marketing. Upon reaching the check out line, the cart is brimming and our wallets are emptied all because we gave in to temptation.

In the spiritual sense, our enemy also knows our cravings and our weaknesses. He knows that we are not always content with a diet consisting solely of the things God has for us. The cost of giving in to temptation is great. Every time we sin willingly, we are telling God that we think we know what's better for us than He does. Just as eating too much junk food will make our bodies unhealthy, yielding to temptation makes our spirit unhealthy.

Temptation has less to do with God than it does with our basic human nature. It is an urge to do what may be considered morally or ethically "wrong" when the conscience is able to sense that which is "right."

Humankind's sinful nature will always gravitate toward that which is not beneficial. The ability to resist temptation takes practice no matter what its source. Temptation is really just an internal struggle with one's self. In realizing this, the Christian understands his own weakness when juxtaposed with the strength of a Creator God. Our faith is made perfect in those times. God provides a way out of temptation. Obeying Him is how we can stay spiritually healthy.

Reflecting Pool

Are you repeatedly exposed to temptation? If so, when?

What sort of consequences have you experienced when giving in to temptation?

What are some ways God provides ways out of temptation?

Keep the Peace

2007-07-11T10:52:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture
Romans 12:9-21

Key Verse
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. (Romans 12:18, NIV)

When my sister and I were younger, we used to pick on each other quite a bit. When our fighting and bickering got too obnoxious, Mom would step in and break it up. When that happened, my sister or I would whine and argue "But she started it!"

Mom's response was always the same. "I don't care who started it. You finish it. You be the biggest," she'd say, reminding us of a phrase that her mother used to defuse similar quarrels.

God's Word gives us the same advice. Regardless of the situation or who is at fault, Christians have the responsibility to live at peace. This does not mean we do not stand up for justice when we are called upon to do so. Instead it means that in situations where we would prefer to lash out at someone in petty, self-righteous ways just to assert our own point of view, we should refrain.

A familiar song says "Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me." Jesus Christ is the Prince of Peace. Those who serve Him are called upon to live out their faith by being instruments of peace when we interact with those who do not know Him as we do.

Reflecting Pool

When is it most difficult for you to be an instrument of peace in this world?

According to Romans 12:9-21, how should we demonstrate love and peace to our enemies?

Deep Diving

How does being a pacifist differ from keeping the peace with our enemies? (Or does it?)

God Will Uphold

2007-07-10T00:28:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture
Isaiah 41:1-10

Key Verse

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will uphold you with my righteous hand.

(Isaiah 41:10, NIV)

Life can get rough. Sometimes God presents me with challenges that are not easily overcome, and not quickly forgotten. When that happens, it is easy to give in to feelings of doubt that make me question whether God is really in control. I have even caught myself wondering, at times, if it's fair that being a Christian doesn't automatically guarantee that life will go smoothly.

Although life certainly isn't as smooth as I want it to be, God continues to uphold me with his righteous hand. Because I know I can trust Him in all things, I have no fears about what His plan for me may include. More and more lately I find that I have to slow down because of my health. There are times when I feel dismayed about how often having cystic fibrosis precludes me from participating in some aspects of “normal” life.

Over the years I have learned to trust God to lead me safely through unfamiliar territory. As much as I hate to admit it, I realize that those times have been and will continue to be character building experiences. In my times of weakness, whether physical or spiritual, God reminds me of his unfailing strength. He teaches me new ways to lean on Him and trust Him to take care of the details. The path God wants me to follow may not be the smoothest one, but he helps me every step along the way.

Reflecting Pool

What part of your life is not going smoothly right now?

Do you hold onto fear about what life has in store for you?

How has God strengthened you in the past when things got rough?

Natural Reminders

2007-07-09T15:44:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture

Romans 1:18-28

Key Verse

For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.

(Romans 1:20, NIV)

While going through a stack of old cards and keepsakes, I found a letter my husband had written me one summer while we were engaged. At the time he wrote it I was hundreds of miles away, enrolled in an intense three-week environmental science course. In the letter he said “Whenever you start to miss me, just look down at those sparklies on your ring and remember how much I love you.”

The “sparklies” in the diamonds of my engagement ring served to remind me of Brad’s promise to marry me. They were a physical reminder of the emotion of love that he felt for me. He had given me the engagement ring as tangible symbol of the covenant we would soon make to one another.

God has given us a similar reminder. Everything he has established in creation is a testament of his existence. In many ways the beauty of the world he has created is a reminder of the covenant he has with us to one day set up a new heaven and new earth. We have no excuse for not recognizing God’s love for us. He has set it up all around us.

Reflecting Pool

What parts of nature remind you most of God’s love?

When do you have trouble remembering God’s promises?

Heavy Lifting

2007-07-08T23:14:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture
Hebrews 12:1-12

Key Verse

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.
Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees.
(Hebrews 12:11-12a, NIV)

Up until now we're been only watching videos on our downstairs television since we have no reception whatsoever there. As an anniversary gift to each other, my husband and I decided to have cable installed. To prepare for the cable guy's arrival, we needed to expose the face plates on the wall where the cable would be connected.

Our living room is furnished with a beautiful oak entertainment center and cabinet. We also have my parents' beautiful upright piano which they gave us when we moved into our first home last summer. My husband and I saw a faceplate behind the entertainment center, so together we stretched and strained to move it just a few inches. As a reminder of safety, I told him to be sure to bend his knees and use his legs to handle all that force.

Spiritually speaking we must do something similar. When life hits us with exceptionally heavy burdens, we occasionally forget how to handle it. We throw up our arms in frustration. We wast time and energy doing the back-breaking work of trying to bear the weight and strain alone. Instead we must think about our knees.

When we take to our knees in prayer and ask for God's help, even the heaviest of heartaches or trials can be made lighter. By stretching out our arms to God, eagerly asking to receive strength from him, we receive the power to move mountains. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can move the most burdensome things that weight on our hearts. Once those have been pushed aside, we have more room for the blessings that God wants to give us.

Reflecting Pool

What are the heavy things in your life you need to move?

How has prayer helped you in the past with difficulties?

Do you make a habit of bending your knees in order for God to strengthen you?

Don't Look for Reasons

2007-07-06T11:44:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture:
Psalm 10

Key Verse:
You hear, O LORD, the desire of the afflicted;
you encourage them, and you listen to their cry.
(Psalm 10:17, NIV)

I have wonderful family and friends. Time and again they have encouraged me when I have struggled. Whenever I lean on them for support, I don't expect them to be able to make my problems go away. I don't ask them to explain why things happen the way they do. All I really need from them is their availability, their prayers, and a listening ear. When they are in need, I do what I can to provide the same sort of encouragement to them.

The ways God brings about his will for his people is not something that can be easily understood. We find ourselves asking why some people have ongoing trials while others appear to live a charmed life. Attempting to find and rhyme or reason in such things can be utterly maddening. When we focus too much on the unfairness of life and the senselessness of suffering, we can become apathetic or bitter towards God.

Instead of calling out to Him for answers and reasons, we should be looking to Him for encouragement. We have a true friend in Jesus. He is there not only to bear the weight of our sins, but to carry the burden for us when we are overwhelmed by life's trials. He may not provide reasons, but He is faithful to strengthen us in heart and spirit.

Reflecting Pool:

Do you ask God for reasons, or for encouragement?

What is overwhelming you today? Do you have a friend to share the burden with you?

How does your prayer life sustain you in times of trial?

Deep Diving

Read the lyrics of the song What A Friend We Have in Jesus and put it into practice.

Three Strands

2007-07-05T06:02:00.000-07:00

Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
Ecclesiastes 4:12

It's hard to believe that four years ago we had our wedding ceremony. Sometimes it seems like only yesterday that we were engaged; Other times I feel like I've known Brad my entire life. Either way, our relationship makes me grin from ear to ear whenever I think about every part of it. There's no doubt in my mind that God hand-picked Brad to be my husband.

God blesses us in so many ways when we put our life in His hands. Being able to share my life and my faith with someone who loves me is wonderful. Brad and I have shared a lot of ups and downs and in betweens. We have pretty much run the gamut of what the wedding vows encapsulate.

Every anniversary is an occasion for us to reflect on what God is doing in our marriage. It doesn't just take the two of us to make our marriage work. It takes three of us--me, Brad, and God. By dedicating our life and marriage to Him we are far better at handling the things that life throws our way. Through the Holy Spirit, God gives us the strength we need to stand firm in the face of challenges that threaten to undo us. He has never let us fall.

Reflecting Pool

When you feel overpowered, do you have someone to turn to?

Is your relationship with God as real to you as your relationship with your spouse or best friend?

From where do you draw your strength to stand firm in the midst of trials?

God's Unmistakable Voice

2007-06-25T02:57:00.000-07:00

Passing the Torch

2007-05-28T12:06:00.000-07:00

Suggested Reading:
Galatians 2:11-17

Key Verse:

I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!
(Galatians 2:17, NIV)

My great-grandfather was an incredible man of faith. He and my great-grandmother willingly sacrificed their time and resources to share with others the good news of the Gospel. In doing so, they were responding to the love that Christ had shown them. Jesus had sacrificed His life so that they could have eternal life. My great-grandparents couldn't wait to share that love with others.

When my great-grandpa passed away, his widow reminded my family that it was now our turn to "carry the torch." It was our responsibility to be a light to the world, and share the gospel with others. By doing so, we were to be a living tribute to my great-grandpa's legacy. The way we could honor him best in his death, was to carry on the traditions of faith he had taught us throughout his life.

Likewise, Christians are called to carry the torch that Christ passed to us. When He extended grace to us, he gave us freedom from our sins. We who have experienced the forgiveness that brings so much joy, have a responsibility to share that with others. We need to remind people that being good is not good enough. The only way to be in God's good favor is to believe that Jesus Christ died for the sins of all mankind.

More than just telling people about Jesus, we must live in such a way that our actions and our words are aligned. When we live humbly in response to God's love, we demonstrate that we recognize the magnitude of being forgiven.

Reflecting Pool:

How has being forgiven prompted you to share the good news with others?

Is your life consistent with that of someone who is thankful for God's forgiveness?

What aspects of your faith would you like to see passed as a torch to the next generation?

Substituting the Gospel

2007-05-28T00:05:00.000-07:00

Suggested Reading:
Galatians 1:1-10

Key Verse:

I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you by the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel—which is really no gospel at all.
(Galatians 1:6, 7a NIV)

Californians have a reputation for being obsessed with fitness and nutrition. Some restaurants even feature "California Cuisine" which, influenced by the state's health-focused tradition, is typically prepared with fresh ingredients. People who desire the benefit of California Cuisine without the effort and expense of dining out, turn to vitamin or mineral supplements, trend diets and amass great volumes of reading material about being fit.

Even with all those things at their disposal, they aren't healthy. Why? It's because they are ignoring the heart of the matter. They look for shortcuts instead of doing the hard work of living a healthful lifestyle.

People do the same thing on a spiritual level. Instead of opening up God's Word, reading it, and applying it to their lives, they look for shortcuts. Devotional books line their shelves; small inspirational plaques or postcards decorate their cubicles; they do their best to be a presentable Christian, but are really nothing more than a pleasant human being.

There is no adequate substitute for God's Word. There is nothing this world has to offer that can guarantee our eternal security. Only Jesus can do that.

Reflecting Pool

What things do you substitute for God's Word?

How healthy is your spiritual life? What's missing?

What is it that keeps you from spending time reading the Bible?

God Lives Here

2007-05-22T06:00:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture: Joshua 24:13-27

Key Verse: But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.
Joshua 24:15b (NIV)

My in-laws have a beautiful door knocker that displays today's verse. It is a reminder to all who enter their home that theirs is a Christian home.

The term "Christian home" is a bit of a strange concept. Certainly a house can't be a Christian. What makes a home Christian is that the inhabitants practice Christianity. They love and serve God in their daily lives, and take advantage of every opportunity to read the Bible, pray with one another, and serve one another with loving attitudes.

But it's more than that.

What makes a home Christian is that fact that God dwells in it. He takes up residence in the hearts of those who love Him. He is welcomed into every room, every thought, and every decision. He is the true head-of-household. He protects and provides for those He calls His children and His beloved.

Reflecting Pool:

Do you live in a Christian home?

Does your relationship with God take a position of prime importance in your family life?

What things can you do to make sure that you and your household serve the Lord?

Sharing the Burden

2007-05-21T11:22:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture: Hebrews 3:1-16

Key Verse: See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness.

Hebrews 3:12,13 (NIV)

For years I was discrete about having a chronic illness. I was afraid that if people knew I had cystic fibrosis, they’d pull away from me. I didn’t want to be known as “the girl with CF.” I craved normalcy and anonymity.

That worked well for a time. However, as I began experiencing more complications, I found I needed to open myself up to others. After all, how could my friends pray for me effectively if they didn’t know what was happening in my life? How could they help shoulder the burden, without knowing just how much weight there was to bear?

My friend Jen once told me that it was my willingness to share my struggles that allowed her to share hers as well. Our friendship has, in fact, been made stronger as we have shared many encouraging conversations and prayer time. God has taken our pain and used it to bring honor and glory to Himself through a remarkable friendship. We have rejoiced in times of healing, prayed in all occasions, and most importantly, sought God’s wisdom together by reading God’s word.

Had I not been willing to make myself vulnerable, I would have missed out on so many blessings. If I had kept to myself about my spiritual struggles, surely my heart would have been hardened.

Reflecting Pool:

Have you ever been afraid to share your weaknesses or spiritual shortcomings with others?

How has God used friendship to encourage you in times of trial?

Leaving Sin Behind

2007-05-18T06:51:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture: John 8:1-11 (NIV)

Key Verse: "Then neither do I condemn you," Jesus declared. "Go now and leave your life of sin." v. 10

Judith Ann Hillard and I met at the Mount Hermon Christian Writers' Conference. We became friends instantly. As she shared a portion of her powerful testimony with me, I resolved to buy her book the first chance I got. The Other Woman at the Well: A Truthful Account of Addiction Overcome tells her story of cocaine addiction.

Had I seen her book on a shelf somewhere, I would have passed it by. Initially I was skeptical of whether I could be impacted by a story about drug addiction. As a person who daily battles the invisible illness that is cystic fibrosis, I have to take dozens of prescribed medications each day just to be "healthy." Why anyone would put drugs into their bodies for recreational purposes, was a concept I could hardly fathom.

Ms. Hillard's book opened my eyes. As her 'quilt-like' testimony spread itself over my heart, I began to feel something stir inside me. This woman was not just "some drug user." She is my sister in Christ, a person from whom the message of redemption emanates with a powerful voice.

At times I could hardly bear to keep reading. I was rattled to the core by the events of her life. I had to keep reading. I had to know what it is about her story that prompted the subtitle that includes the words "addiction overcome." Hers is indeed a story of addiction overcome; more than that, it's the story of what overcame her-the relentless love of a Savior.

Drug addiction is a physical symptom of the spiritual battle that is raging within all of us. Ms. Hillard's book is a must read for anyone who is ignorant of the war-torn battleground that is drug addiction. It's not an easy read, but neither is a Latin Vulgate translation of the Bible, yet both tell the story of redemption.

Today Judith Ann Hillard is no longer addicted. She speaks to groups on the subject of drug addiction every chance she gets. Her work as an author, educator, and dynamic public speaker are life-changing and even life-saving.

Reflecting Pool:

Have you ever passed judgment on someone for their sins?

Do you struggle with an addiction of any kind? How does it impair you spiritually?

What is keeping you from leaving certain sins behind?

Tripping Over the Obvious

2007-04-25T15:08:00.000-07:00

How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.

--Matthew 7:4-5 (NIV)

One of my sinful attitudes is that I expect people to behave in ways that even I am incapable of doing. I was particularly bad at this during my first year of marriage. I put unreasonable expectations on my husband when it came to how often I thought he should pitch in with the dishes or the chores. I expected him to volunteer to clean up; far be it from me to be the first one to start rinsing the dishes!

I realized that such an attitude was going to undermine my marriage if I didn't take action. In the years since, God has taught me a lot about my hypocrisy, and often reminds me that there are bigger things to worry about in myself than in my husband. That lesson hit me quite literally in the middle of the night last week.

Brad had put away his folded laundry, but I had yet to take care of min. For days I told him that I was going to put away "tomorrow." I didn't keep my word, so as a reminder, he put the basket squarely in the entryway of the bathroom. For almost 2 days I stepped over it, around it, and even kicked it aside. That night, as I fumbled through the darkness on my way to get a glass of water, I tripped over the laundry basket.

I emptied the laundry basket first thing the next morning.

Unless we take the necessary steps to identify our own sinful behavior, we have no business pointing out the errors in judgment our brothers and sisters make. Spiritually speaking, it is in our best interest to deal with our obvious flaws, before they trip us up, or cause us to fall.

Reflecting Pool:

What sinful behavior do you notice in others, but ignore in yourself?

How does hypocrisy cause you to trip or even fall?

The Master's Voice

2007-04-24T16:45:00.000-07:00

Suggested Scripture Reading: John 10:1-18

When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice. But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger's voice."
John 10:4-5

The little terrier scurried across the parking lot as quickly as his tiny legs could carry him. Seeing that the gleeful fur-ball was about to run into a lane of traffic, I decided to intervene. I knelt down to the pup's level and attempted to call him to me. I patted my hands on the tops of my thighs, and whistled.

After a few moments, the dog walked in my direction with what appeared to be a great deal of hesitation. After all, I was a stranger. Why should he approach me just because I called to him?

Just then, a voice echoed across the courtyard.

"This your dog?" I called to the man.

"Sure is! He got away from me," he explained. "Thanks for holding him."

The pup's tail wagged with glee as he was scooped up in his master's arms. Safe and protected.

Those who belong to God and know his voice should be hesitant to follow the voice of a stranger. When we are surrounded by the distracting voices of the world at large, God's voice can be difficult to hear. There is nothing we stand to gain by running away from him or behaving disobediently. God promises to protect us and love us, but we need to stay within ear shot of his voice.

Reflecting Pool:

How do you know when God is calling you?

What are some voices of "strangers" that you've been tempted to follow?

Nothing to Do But Pray

2007-04-21T12:00:00.000-07:00

Scripture Reading: Jonah 2:1-10

From inside the fish Jonah prayed to the LORD his God.
Jonah 2:1 (NIV)

Several months ago, I was in poor health. Between Thanksgiving and Valentines Day, I was in and out of the hospital for different complications of cystic fibrosis. My doctor wisely recommended that in order to get back on track, I should take a break and focus mainly on my physical well-being. Initially, I resisted such an idea. The last thing I wanted to do was take things at a slower pace.

God pulled me out of the tossing waves of my busy life and planted me squarely on the couch. For the first two months of recuperation, I was too tired to even read a book; I barely had enough energy to concentrate on praying. As my body healed, so did my spirit. I began praying more often and with greater boldness. Perhaps that's what God wanted me to be doing all along.

Like Jonah, there was little else for me to do in my position other than pray. I learn a lot from such a point of view. Instead of complaining about being knee deep in chum, Jonah thanks God for saving him from the tossing seas. It wasn't until Jonah finished praying that the Lord commanded the creature to spit the prophet onto dry land. At that point, Jonah was ready to take on the challenge of prophesying to the people of Nineveh.

I'm confident that all of the time I have spent in prayer has been purposeful, and is indeed part of God's plan for my life. Wherever he sends me next, I will go faithfully and obediently.

Reflecting Pool:

What role does prayer play in helping you deal with challenges?

What benefits or blessings have you experienced through prayer?

Spring Cleaning in the Heart

2007-04-20T12:08:00.000-07:00

Scripture Reading: 1st Thessalonians 5:12-28

May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul, and body, be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

--1st Thessalonians 5:23 (NIV)

My husband and I did our spring cleaning over the weekend. We got out all the supplies, and even purchased a handy new stick-mop of sorts with a pivoting head to get into those nooks and crannies in the bathrooms. We spent hours sorting, organizing, vacuuming, dusting and disinfecting. The hard work paid off, and we are enjoying the peace of mind that comes from having a neat and organized home.

The idea of spring cleaning has bearing on our spiritual lives as well as our home-life. In order that we can experience peace in our relationship with God, we need to be sanctified through and through. This means that we need to let the Holy Spirit work in us to clean out our hearts. In doing so, our attitudes and hearts are renewed.

We sometimes forget that God has designed us in such a way that our spirit, soul, and body are interconnected. As Dr. Neil T. Anderson points on in his book The Bondage Breaker, we must not separate our spiritual and physical selves. We can't clean or disinfect one and disregard the other. If we do, then we're not truly sanctified through and through.

God can make us blameless and pure. He is faithful to clean us up by the work of the Holy Spirit in our hearts. This is how we can find peace.

Reflecting Pool:

What areas of your life could use some "spring cleaning?"

Do you have the peace that comes from being sanctified or cleaned up?

Debt Reconciliation

2007-04-18T21:39:00.000-07:00

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation. --2 Corinthians 5:17, 18 (NIV)

When we moved to our new house, we acquired a phone number that had been previously in use by a number of different folks. Apparently, some of them were not very good at paying off debts. Collection agencies and creditors frequently call. We've spent months explaining that we are not the person whom they seek.

When a person is in Christ, he is a new creation. His formerly sinful nature is replaced by a desire to obey God. The strength to do so comes from the Holy Spirit. When a person repents of his sins, God forgives them and wipes them out of the record once and for all. All of a person's debts of sin are taken on by Jesus, and he pays them.

However, the enemy tries to undermine the work of the Holy Spirit and of Christ. The evil one takes great pleasure in reminding us of our sinful past, and tries to make us believe that we are still in great debt. Our lack of faith makes us think that payment will be exacted from us. This can weigh us down and interfere with our ability to praise God with our whole hearts.

In those times of insecurity, we must remember that our debts have been reconciled. There is now no condemnation for those who serve the Lord. We have been forgiven, and nothing can change that. We are right with God, and in his eyes, we are a new creation. That is a reality worthy of rejoicing!

Reflecting Pool:

What do you do when your past catches up with you?
Do you experience the joy that comes from being a new creation in Christ?

He Speaks for Himself

2007-04-18T15:48:00.000-07:00

Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. --Matthew 5:11 (NIV)

I find it difficult to not get my dander up when someone insults my Christian beliefs. I can become quite defensive in such cases. I'm learning that in order to be a more effective witness, I need to let some things just slide by. Rather than defend myself and my doctrinal stance, I should make more of an effort to remain silent.

Why waste time and energy getting overly agitated? Why bother responding to those who will not hear us anyway? A better course of action is to let the Holy Spirit take over. This is what it means to be self-controlled. In my controlled silence, God speaks.

When I stop waggling my tongue, I hear his voice much more clearly. When I'm not talking over Him, his voice resonates within me. He reminds me that I don't need to take things personally. More importantly, He calms my emotions and assures me that I am not the one being attacked, He is. As such, He will deal with the situation accordingly. My witness and testimony is stronger when I let Him speak for Himself.

Reflecting Pool

When have you felt personally attacked for being a Christian?
Have you ever said something you regret in the process of defending yourself?

Look Up

2007-04-16T07:00:00.000-07:00

When the dew was gone, thin flakes like frost on the ground appeared on the desert floor. When the Israelites saw it, they said to each other, "What is it?" For they did not know what it was. Moses said to them, "It is the bread the LORD has given you to eat." --Exodus 16:14, 15 (NIV)

The grassy area next to my car was littered with small, round, green things. My curiosity was piqued. At first I thought maybe it was a patch of toadstools or some other such plant life that had sprung up from the ground. Taking a step back to survey the surrounding area with a larger view, I saw a palm tree. Quickly scanning the trunk of the tree, I solved the mystery. The round things on the ground were dates. They had fallen from their position atop the date palm tree.

Life is full of things we may not understand or things we haven't seen before. From our vantage point we can only see so far. It's not until we stand back and look up that we get a clearer perspective. Nothing falls to us here on earth that hasn't passed under God's watchful eye. When we are confused or upset by the things we see around us, our first response should be to turn our thoughts heavenward.

Like the children of Israel, we may find ourselves in a fog, shivering in the cold dampness of the morning. But as the dew disappears, we will see that God has not forgotten us. He has been with us throughout the night. He continues to provide for us at every turn, feeding us in body and spirit. Daily we are strengthened for life's journey by the blessings he gives. Even when we are in the barren deserts, we are nourished by the bread of heaven. God sends us peace and comfort as we look to Him in prayer.

Reflecting Pool:

When has God fed you in the desert?
What do you discover when you turn your eyes heavenward?

Heaven, We Have a Problem

2007-04-13T17:04:00.000-07:00

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." --Deuteronomy 31:6 (NIV)

Perhaps it's because I have studied the intricacies of the environmental processes of terra firma that I also have an interest in space . I'm not a NASA buff by any means, but I do read up on things that involve rocket science.

On this day in history, the three astronauts of Apollo 13, (Jim Lovell, Fred Haise, John Swigert) found themselves in a crippled space craft. During a routine maintenance check, an explosion triggered the loss of oxygen and electrical power in their command module. Returning to earth safely became their new mission.

In some ways, I feel like my body is the command module of Apollo 13. Cystic fibrosis limits my ability to use oxygen and power. However, I'm not left without a lifeboat. God gives me what I need to survive and complete my "mission" as his faithful servant. When I trust him to provide for me, I know that I will be protected and safe. He is my ultimate mission control, and because of that, I do not need to be afraid of anything that happens to me in this life.

Reflecting Pool

How has God provided for you when life is especially challenging?
Do you find comfort in knowing that God promises to never leave you or forsake you?

House Rules

2007-04-11T15:15:00.001-07:00

...because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son. --Hebrews 12:6 (NIV)

During my adolescents, my parents were diligent about monitoring my TV viewing habits. I was allowed to rent R-rated movies, but with the condition that Mom or Dad had to watch it with me. I brought a certain Academy Award winning film home one weekend, and settled back on the couch to watch it with Dad. Within 20 minutes our ears had been assailed by many utterances of the f-word. Dad took 3 long-legged strides over the the VCR, ejected the tape, and told me that I was never to bring anything like that into the house again.

I tried arguing with my dad that the story was great and that I just "had to see it." Dad would have none of it. I whined that all my friends at church had seen it and that their parents didn't have a problem with it.

"I'm not your friends' Dad. I make the rules for you, not for them."

I deeply love and respect my dad. Over the years I came to realize that the house rules that I thought were intrusive, were really just an extension of his love for me. Like our Heavenly Father, Dad's rules and the way he disciplined for disobedience, were always in the right measure and most beneficial. My character and integrity was undoubtedly shaped by the house rules and the enforcement thereof.

The same is true of the way God disciplines those he calls sons. He corrects, rebukes, and trains us in righteousness. Without such discipline and direction, we would be spiritually immature, and unable to tell right from wrong.

Reflecting Pool

What house rule do you appreciate more in hindsight?
How does being disciplined by God make us more mature?

Buckle Up for Safety

2007-04-10T15:12:00.000-07:00

Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble come... --Ecclesiastes 12:1a (NIV)

From my vantage point in the back seat of the van, the winding road down the mountain seemed all the more treacherous. The driver was obeying the speed limit, but my heart still pounded with each twist and turn of the lane. I was never more mindful of how secure a seat belt could made me feel than I was on that particular trip.

Seat belts save lives, but only if they're buckled. I don't know of anyone who gets into the car thinking that in the event of an accident, he will have time to fasten that lap belt. Waiting to buckle up until you're in trouble is a foolish practice, not to mention an ineffective one.

The same is true of waiting to commit one's life to Christ. The blessing of eternal security, and the assurance of salvation isn't complicated. God promises to protect and strengthen us in times of trouble. Unfortunately, when we're in the midst of trying circumstances, we have difficulty asking him for his help. It's best that we come to him sooner, rather than later, and get "buckled up" so to speak for the winding roads ahead.

Reflecting Pool

How has God secured you in times of trouble?
What prevents you from asking for His help?

That's It?

2007-04-09T06:36:00.000-07:00

But Naaman went away angry and said, "I thought that he would surely come out to me and stand and call on the name of the LORD his God, wave his hand over the spot and cure me of my leprosy. --2 Kings 5:11 (NIV)

We take our bathrooms very seriously around our house. So naturally, when one of our toilet seats began to unseat itself from its base, I wanted it fixed immediately. I found a little kit at "Bed, Bath and Beyond" that had all the screws, washers and plastic nuts I needed to repair the offending wiggler.

Sitting on the laminate floor of the master bathroom, I reached under the toilet bowl to get the lay of the land. I was already envisioning my triumph. My dreams of glory quickly dissipated as I realized that my handy-dandy little fix-it kit would not be necessary. Instead, all I had to do was twist the existing screws to the right, and the problem was solved.

I thought to myself, "That's it?"

I suppose I should have been glad that it was a simple problem to solve. To be honest, I was really looking forward to doing something that required a bit more elbow grease.

God's hand at work in our lives is sometimes simpler than we realize. We think that because He is the Almighty God, anything that comes from Him should be delivered by an angelic messenger and a clap of thunder. This is not the case. In small, every day ways, he works in our lives and gives us exactly what we need, in exactly the right amounts. Just because His ways aren't necessarily bold and flashy, doesn't mean they are any less sovereign or holy.

Reflecting Pool:

When has God provided a simple solution to something you felt was overwhelming?
Do you see God at work in both small and big ways?

Cross Walk

2007-04-06T23:19:00.000-07:00

Finally Pilate handed him over to them to be crucified. So the soldiers took charge of Jesus. Carrying his own cross, he went out to the place of the Skull (which in Aramaic is called Golgotha). --John 19:16-17 (NIV)

It was already past our usual dinner time, and my stomach grumbled loudly in protest. Less than a mile from home, I was forced to stop at a red light. More than a dozen pedestrians occupied the cross walk. Normally, I wouldn't have given them a second glance, but there was something unusual about this bunch. Six or seven of them were wearing what appeared to be wearing costumes, and the group was led by a man wearing nothing but a loin cloth and a pair of sandals. He carried a cross.

At first I thought, "What a bunch of weirdos." Immediately ashamed of my attitude, I tried reasoning to myself that what I just witnessed was merely a stunt, a showy display, and not even an authentic one at that. Still, I couldn't escape the nagging feeling that I had been too quick to dismiss a visible reminder of God's love.

How many of those who witnessed Christ's Passion thought the same thing I did? Were they frustrated that a man carrying a cross through town was cluttering up the traffic, interfering with their Passover celebration? What thoughts crossed their minds as they watched a man, bloodied and beaten beyond recognition, trudge up to Golgotha? Did they dismiss and disdain him as easily as I had?

As I reflect on the magnitude and mystery of the Easter miracle, I pray for a renewal of my heart. I don't want to be unaffected by the outpouring of God's love, or complacent in my response to him.

Reflecting Pool

What sort of feelings are stirred in your heart at Easter?
Why do you think it's so difficult to stay enthusiastic about God's love?

Friends Who Help

2007-04-05T10:59:00.000-07:00

If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! --Ecclesiastes 4:10 (NIV)

I learned a lot at the Mount Hermon Christian Writer's Conference. In particular, God taught me a valuable lesson about how he sends friends to help.

The final session of the evening had drawn to a close, and I was ready to head back to my cabin. Only one thing stood in my way: darkness. I don't like being in the dark in my own home, let alone in unfamiliar surroundings. To make matters worse, I wasn't entirely confident that I could find the cabin on my own. Rather than risk getting lost or injured alone in the darkness on my way back up the hill, I decided to ask for help.

A fellow conferee was more than willing to assist me. She and I linked arms as we walked, just in case either of us might trip over something unseen. The peace of mind I experienced by having someone there to help me far outweighed my fear of appearing wimpy.

God places people in our lives for specific purposes. He provides the help we need by blessing us with friends who come alongside us in our moments of trial or weakness. Such friends are a physical reminder of God's care and love for us.

Reflecting Pool

How has God demonstrated his love to you through a friend?

Outward Appearance

2007-04-04T09:24:00.000-07:00

But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."
--1st Samuel 16:7 (NIV)

Even before the plane took off, the two other passengers seated in the row with me leafed intently through the pages of In Style magazine. They poured over each air-brushed photograph, commenting on the model's figure, wardrobe, and accessories. What shocked me most was that this critical pair also speculated on the character and personal details of the lives of the celebrities they ogled.

Judging people based on their outward appearance is easy to do. Very often we make gross assumptions about a person as the result of prejudging them in such a manner. In doing so, we unfairly criticize, forming hard and fast opinions that may be contrary to a person's true character.

The world sees and judges us according to superficial standards, but God sees the spirit, and evaluates each supernaturally. God looks at a person's heart. He judges fairly and justly, without regard to external appearances. There is nothing about us that is unseen by the one who created us. Nothing about us escapes his attention. God sees each of us as we truly are.

Reflecting Pool:

Do you worry about your outward appearance or judge people based on theirs?
What does God see in your heart today?

Correct Change

2007-04-03T22:30:00.000-07:00

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. --Philippians 4:6 (NIV)

The vending machine accepted five-dollar bills, so I fed a crisp Lincoln into the slot, and pressed the button corresponding with the caffeinated beverage of choice. The change descended loudly. Clunk, clink, clink, clink, clink, clink.

Quickly applying some mental math, I calculated that the vending machine had returned only $1.50 in change. Plunging my fingers into the coin return cup, I planned to voice a complaint to the front desk as soon as I retrieved those 6 quarters.

I looked down at the coins in my palm: three Susan B. Anthony dollars, and three quarters. My anger was replaced by embarrassment. The change I received wasn’t what I anticipated, but it was correct.

God's answers to our prayers rarely look like what we think they should. Nonetheless, they are exactly what we need, given to us in the perfect amount.

Reflecting Pool:

When has God answered your prayers in a way you didn’t expect?

Hiding from God

2007-03-29T12:43:00.000-07:00

Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the LORD God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the LORD God among the trees of the garden. But the LORD God called to the man, "Where are you?" --Genesis 3:8,9 (NIV)

That box of fruit juice was very tempting. Not tempting to drink, but tempting to jump upon with all my might. I was only 11 years old and the time, and hadn't really thought much about the laws of physics that would determine how the energy and force of my foot would affect the juice box.

SQUEEEEEET!

There was a split second of sheer delight followed by a decidedly unpleasant sinking feeling. My cheeks flushed as red as the juice that now covered most of my friend's clothing. I knew I was in deep, dark trouble when our moms came to pick us up from school. Thankfully, our mothers didn't arrive at the same time, and I was able to conceal my guilt for a little while longer. As soon as we got home, I took off on my bike, hoping that the situation would be forgotten and I would avoid punishment for my little stunt.

Not so. After more than an hour of riding around aimlessly, I finally went home. My mom met me at the door with "the look" and stern tone as she said "Kristen's mom called. Where were you? What did you do?"

We all try to hide from the stupid things we do. We know full well when we've done something that displeases God, and we attempt to conceal our guilt by concealing ourselves. We try to hide, hoping that maybe this time God didn't notice our sin. Perhaps we think that as time passes, he may just decide to forget about being angry with us for our disobedience. That may be how we are used to people or parents dealing with us, but it's not how God deals with his children.

When my mom firmly demanded that I tell her what I had done, it wasn't because she didn't already know. She knew exactly what had happened; she had already heard it from my friend's mom during a phone call. Still, she needed me to confess and explain not only what I had done, but why I thought I needed to hide because of it.

When we realize our sin our natural impulse is to conceal it or cover it up. However, it's impossible to hide from God. He knows our every thought and every action. Even so, he wants us to come to him and confess our sin. When Adam and Eve hid from God, they didn't really expect that God wouldn't find them. When God called to them saying "Where are you?" he wasn't unaware of where they were or what they had done. When we own up to our ill-conceived and thoughtless actions, and are ready to bear the consequence of our sins, we need to come before God. He is willing to forgive us for everything, but not if we don't ask it of him. He longs to give us the peace and comfort of being absolved from our sins, but that doesn't happen automatically.

Even when we confess and tell God about what we've done, we are still subject to the consequences of our actions. Just because I explained to my mom about the juice box, didn't mean that I wasn't going to be dismissed without some sort of discipline. I had to write a note of apology to Kristen and her mom, and offer to replace the clothing that had been ruined by the juice. My apology certainly didn't remove the cranberry stains from Kristen's pants, but it did demonstrate that I was willing to take responsibility for my actions. That experience served to remind me that I cannot hide from Mom, and I certainly can't hide from God.

Sight Seeing

2007-03-28T04:52:00.000-07:00

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight. --Proverbs 3:5,6 (NIV)

My husband and I went to San Francisco over the weekend. As is usually the case when we go out of town, we learned a bit more about each other. I learned that when it comes to sight-seeing, Brad doesn't mind walking around, just taking it all in. He is content to operate without a schedule or itinerary. I'm the opposite. Not only do I like knowing where I'm going, but I prefer to know when I'll arrive and what I'll be doing once I get there.

I realized that my husband's approach (although initially maddening to me) was actually a good example of what it means to live according to Proverb 3:5,6. He knew that as long as we were walking in the right direction, we'd eventually find what we were hoping to see. He didn't rely on his own understanding of the situation; after all, we were unfamiliar with the city, but we at least knew how to read the street signs.

There are times in life when we wish we knew the details of how things were going to work together. We want to know when certain blessings are going to be given to us. We desire to know why things aren't going the way we expected. We even go so far as to think that so long as we're doing everything "right" according to our own standards, that God has no other choice than to give us what we've been seeking. This is not the best way to live, and it can be a very frustrating one.

When we trust God completely, and make sure that we look up and read the street signs at life's intersections, we invite much more peace into our lives. Instead of trying to control the situation ourselves, creating a checklist or timetable for all that we think should be happening in life, we should be acknowledging God. When we lean on our own understanding, we fall over.

God is rarely secretive about the things he wants us to learn or the sights he wants to show us in this lifetime. When we read His Word, we learn about what it is He has planned for us. His Word is much more than a road map for life; it is God's plan for our life and our eternity. When we learn to acknowledge him in all our paths, he not only gets us to our destination, but affords us the opportunity for some great sight seeing along the way. The things He teaches us about himself are incredible. I only wish I had started leaning on Him sooner.

Bulking Up on the Word

2007-03-22T15:11:00.000-07:00

"My food," said Jesus, "is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work." --John 4:34 (NIV)

As much as I enjoy sitting down to a good meal, there are times when I get so engrossed in a particular project (especially writing projects) that I am reluctant to pause long enough to eat. The burst of adrenaline that comes from finding the most suitable synonym is nothing short of a chemical high that makes food seem inconsequential. Nonetheless, I know that unless I properly fuel my body, my brain will not have the necessary nutrients that enable it to unleash creative thoughts.

Just as I need physical food to sustain me, I need spiritual food as well. By feasting regularly on God's word, savoring the passages of scripture that have been penned by the heroes of our faith, I am made stronger. Every word of scripture is inspired by God, which means that every word contained therein is important. God saw fit to urge his prophets, poets, scribes and missionaries, to write down things of lasting value to Christians everywhere.

I have heard is said that a person should feed on God's word until he can burp out scripture. I disagree. Instead of internalizing the contents of the Bible and then spewing them forth as a byproduct of digestion, I want to feed on God's Word in such a way that my spiritual disposition appears stronger and weightier. Just as an athlete would "bulk up" on certain types of foods, I believe that my responsibility as a Christian is to "bulk on" by reading God's Word, then exercising my faith muscles by putting it into practice.

Each of us should do what we can to make use of the spiritual food that God makes available to us on a regular basis. Without being nourished and strengthened by the reading and study of God's Word, we are essentially useless when it comes to sharing our faith. Although we don't need to be completely muscle-bound, we do need to be adequately fed and reasonably fit for the task at hand. Specifically, shining the light of God's Word in a world consumed by darkness.

Attention Passengers: A Parable* of Grace

2007-03-20T04:12:00.000-07:00

"...in accordance with his pleasure and will— to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace..." Ephesians 1:5-7 (NIV)

The usual airport din seemed to hum even more loudly with the throng of holiday travelers. Even after such a long day of teaching, Jen's characteristic optimism and cheerfulness were undiminished. As she and her husband Dave waited to board their plane, they talked about how glad they were to be headed back east to see their families. It was getting late, and Dave's main objective at that point was to get out of California in one piece.

"Attention passengers," the flight attendant's saccharine voice interrupted Dave's thoughts, "this flight has been overbooked and we are looking for anyone willing to exchange their tickets for travel vouchers and $100 cash for a later flight."

Jen's ears immediately perked up and she tossed a hopeful glance toward Dave. Wordlessly, he refused by shaking his head. Understanding her husband's desire to get back to Wisconsin as they had already planned, Jen didn't argue. Fifteen minutes later, the flight attendant addressed everyone again.

"Attention passengers. We still have no takers. We are authorized to offer compensation in the amount of $300 for anyone willing to exchange their tickets."

The thought of a few hundred extra bucks in the bank account was an attractive one. More insistently this time, Jen attempted to convince Dave to switch their tickets to a later flight. Still Dave was adamant. He reminded her that his parents were already expecting them to arrive on this specific flight in a matter of hours. Jen resisted the urge to pout. She knew Dave was just being practical, and that was one of the things that endeared her most to him. Even so, it was difficult not to think about how that windfall sum of money could be put to good use. The PA system's microphone crackled to life once more.

"Attention passengers, we are offering a night's stay in a downtown San Diego hotel, in addition to six hundred dollars in travel vouchers good for any future travel arrangements, for anyone willing to exchange their tickets for this evening's flight."

This time, without a moment of hesitation, Jen snatched Dave's plane ticket right out of his hands as she bounded to her feet and practically sprinted to the flight attendant's desk. Even Dave unequivocally agreed: Six hundred dollars plus a accommodations in one of San Diego's nicest hotels was too good to pass up. Their families were just going to have to wait one more night to see them for the holidays!

A few years have passed, but Jen still recalls with vivid detail how much fun they had that night in an all-expenses paid hotel overlooking the San Diego Bay. The fabulous steak dinner they enjoyed at the hotel's restaurant were indeed a savory treat for them. Perhaps the best part was that the travel vouchers enabled them to make two additional trips from California to Wisconsin that year, with room to spare, financially speaking.

Perhaps the reason why some people don't take advantage of the opportunity is that it all seems to good to be true. There's nothing hidden in the gift of grace. It doesn't expire. It's not only available during certain times of the year. It's difficult to imagine why, in consideration of all that we stand to gain from the free gift of grace, more people don't bound to their feet like Jen did to accept the offer. All we really have to do is be willing to change our itinerary and go along with God's plan instead of our own. The conditions we need to satisfy in order to be deserving of such a gift are rather simple, really. The flight has been paid for, there's beautiful room with a view reserved just for us. All we need to do is show up.

***

*Special thanks to my Sisterchick, Jen, whose real life experience was the inspiration for today's story. All I really did was pass it along.

Spiritual Surgery

2007-03-19T03:51:00.001-07:00

If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life maimed than with two hands to go into hell, where the fire never goes out. --Mark 9:43 (NIV)

My sister has weak knees. Her ability to compete on our high school's track team was cut short (quite literally) when her knee gave out to the point that it needed to be surgically repaired. The first procedure didn't solve the problem. Despite the use of a supportive brace during certain activities, she experienced another knee injury requiring even more extensive surgery.

This week my sister will be undergoing a procedure on what she considers her "good" knee. She has decided that she would rather endure the pain and recovery time of an aggressive surgery now, while her knee isn't in such bad shape.

Her choice to deal with the problem aggressively and as completely as possible, is how each of us should seek to rid our lives of the plague and pain of sin. In some cases, the only way to effectively deal with the problem is to, metaphorically, cut it out of our lives completely. If we were to allow even the tiniest opportunity of sinful behavior to take root in us, we run the risk of scarring the tissue of our consciences. The problem with a callous heart is that it is far less sensitive to the prompting of the holy spirit. As each error in judgment and every indiscretion takes its toll on our hearts, we become desensitized. Where a tender, tactile spirit once lived, we allow something hardened and callous to dwell.

To keep this from happening, we need to schedule an appointment with the Great Physician, and ask him to carefully and completely remove the root of sin within us. The double-edged blade of his Word will cut cleanly enough, but it will hurt considerably. Fortunately, if our hearts are still sensitive enough to feel such a sting, then we are not too entrenched in our sin to be saved. The pain of cutting sin out of our lives is a temporary experience compared to the comfort and healing we find in obeying God's commandments. As the Holy Spirit works in us, we will wonder why we ever let ourselves limp along with such sins weighing us down, and why we didn't look to cut out the root of our infirmity sooner.

Fashioning My Words

2007-03-14T23:44:00.000-07:00

A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. --Proverbs 25:11 (NIV)

It's hardly a secret that women talk more than men. Although it's impossible to verify the exact statistics, it is believed that women use somewhere on the order of 20,000 words per day. In considering this information, along with the fact that Solomon had 700 wives, is it any wonder that he would know an aptly spoken word when he heard it?

What exactly is an aptly spoken word? More importantly, what spiritual significance is there in such a manner of speech?

The word, aptly, describes anything that is done in a competent manner. Competent words are those that are spoken in such a way that they are beneficial, verifiable, and relevant. As the imagery used by Solomon suggests, apt words are also lovely and precious. When I picture golden apples in settings of silver, I think about what was involved in fashioning such a thing. What comes to mind first is the notion that great care and craftsmanship would be necessary to produce the desired result.

There are times (too many to count now) when my words, especially my spoken words, are far from lovely. I allow my voice to give life to careless thoughts. When they tumble from my lips I watch as they landing painfully and haphazardly on their intended target. This is not the sort of thing I should be doing with my mouth, and it is not the sort of thing that is consistent with a woman whose heart is attuned to the things of God.

Rather than opening my mouth just to hear myself talk, I should seek first to fashion my words carefully and thoughtfully. When I pause, giving the Holy Spirit some time to reveal to me how speak obediently, as one who desires earnestly to take every thought captive --as the apostle Paul writes in 2nd Corinthians 10:5b--I am submitting myself to God's authority. This should always be my goal, whether in word or in deed.

No matter how well I may use my vocabulary to express myself, unless my words are seasoned with grace, they will be lifeless. Even if I bring all my educational background and professional expertise into a conversation with others, unless I examine my words in the light of the gospel, I will appear ignorant. I seek to make it my heart's desire that I communicate verbally in ways that are beneficial, relevant, and altogether lovely in the eyes of God.

My Hands, His Nails

2007-03-13T23:56:00.000-07:00

For this is the way the holy women of the past who put their hope in God used to make themselves beautiful. They were submissive to their own husbands. --1st Peter 3:5 (NIV)

I've been a nail-biter for years. This nervous habit has, at times, kept my hands from looking anything but beautiful. Friends encouraged me to seek the help of a manicurist, so that I could see what my nails could look like if I only gave them a chance to grow. When I did finally have my nails done by said professional, I was not quite satisfied with the results. It looked so artificial--and indeed it was--to have something synthetic attached to my fingertips. I failed to see how that was supposed to be the key that kept me from putting my nails in my mouth.

Over the last several weeks I have, at last, ceased being a nail-biter. My natural nails have grown out to a length that is pleasingly feminine in appearance. I think my favorite part of all this is how lovely my left hand looks now. My delicate wedding band, coupled with a diamond engagement ring, appear all the more "grown up," (for lack of a better phrase.) Having given up my ugly habit, I can now make my husband even more pleased with me for displaying the outward token of his love for me in a more attractive manner.

When it comes to pleasing God we can only do so much before we realize that our best efforts fall short. In fact, unless we are worshiping and serving God out of a sincere love for him, there is nothing pleasing at all. Our hearts are deceitful and dark if we do not profess a faith in the Lord, Jesus Christ. No matter how good or moral we think we are, anything we try to do to earn God's approval or cause him to look upon us favorably would be as obtrusive and ill-fitting as the artificial nails I tried.

When Christ hung upon the cross, he took upon himself the ugliest, most vile habits and sins of the world. The punishment that we deserved for these things is eternal death in the form of total and eternal separation from God. However, in God's great mercy he provided a means by which we could avoid such a desperate state--he sent Jesus. When we put our hope in God, and believe that he fulfilled the promise of a Messiah, a Savior, our hearts are transformed. In response to the work Jesus did on the cross, and the unconditional love he has for us, the Holy Spirit works in us and enables us to worship and honor God more fittingly.

The church is metaphorically called Christ's bride. When she is in a state of humble submission to the commands of her Lord, no longer does God see a person who is chewed up, uneven, and unpolished. Instead, he sees the perfection of his (un)natural beauty. In the absence of anything artificial or contrived, she worships him more purely and honorably than before. In this way, the love we have from God is displayed outward and becomes even more attractive to any who see it. This is the mark of beauty in Christ's bride, the church.

Report Cards

2007-03-13T01:11:00.000-07:00

Finally, brothers, we instructed you how to live in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more. --1 Thessalonians 4:1 (NIV)

Not too long ago my mom and I sifted through hundreds of family pictures together in her living room. Tucked amongst the photographs was a collection of my report cards from elementary school. Believe it or not, they weren't full of A's. However, not every aspect of assessment that my teachers put to me was marked with a letter grade. Things like "citizenship" and "class participation" typically had an indication of whether I had performed in a satisfactory manner. I frequently discovered comments from my teachers; things like "a pleasure to have in class," and "keep up the good work." Even all these years later, it made me smile to know that I had pleased my teachers.

Unlike getting high marks from an elementary school teacher, living a life that is pleasing to God is no easy thing. I have recently been reading a series of sermons that describe how we are to worship God, particularly as those who have been adopted into God's family through Christ. The more I learn about the weightiness of the greatest commandment, the more I realize how far short I fall of properly pleasing God. When I picture God's Laws as a report card, I am dismayed to see that I am in danger of failing.

Or am I?

Because I cling to the hope and faith that Jesus lived the perfect life that I cannot, I know that God sees me not as a failure, but as one of his faithful. Today's verse refers to the instructions that were given by the apostle Paul to the church at Thessalonica as to how they were to please God. Specifically, this included acting out of love to one another, particularly their Christian brothers. It also involved respecting those outside of the church. These are the things that Paul writes that they have already done well, and should continue to do so more and more.

If God were to write a comment on my spiritual report card, I think he might write something like "keep trying...you'll get it!" I may not be perfect in my walk with God, but mercifully, Jesus has taken over that responsibility for me. Since I know Jesus and cling to him, I know that I cannot be a miserable failure. As I look to Jesus' example, and ask the Holy Spirit to make God's Word dwell richly in me, I know I will be pleasing to God more and more.

Riding the Tides of the Pools of Grace

2007-02-27T13:19:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

As you may have noticed, the "Pools of Grace" have been seemingly
stagnant lately. For this I apologize. My life has been a bit more
challenging than  usual, and instead of being able to share God's word
and wisdom with all of you, I have been hording it for myself. Please
pray that as I continue to spend time in God's Word, the Holy Spirit
will breathe on me and fill me to overflowing with thoughts and
experiences that I can share with you.

In the meantime, rest assured that God is (as always) showing me new
ways that I can be a better servant to him. Pools of Grace is currently
undergoing some updates, many of which will make the site even more
functional, and therefore, a more effective tool of ministry.

As was my hope when I first started, Pools of Grace is now SEARCHABLE!
You no longer have to look through the Master Index page to find what
you are looking for. You can simply type in a word or Bible reference
in the search box at the top left of the page, and Voila! Please note
that this feature is only available if you visit the actual Pools of
Grace page online, which is located at
http://educatedguesser.blogspot.com

Another wonderful development, is that Pools of Grace will eventually
be PoolsofGrace.net. More about that later.

Until I have more meditations to share, please visit www.Dailywidsom.com
That is a site that has published several of my pieces in the past.
Please consider also making a financial donation to that site to keep
it up and running. The editor/site manager of Daily Wisdom has been
very gracious to me, and I would like to return the favor by asking you
to help out his ministry.

Thank you all for your continued prayers and support. I enjoy writing
Pools of Grace, and I hope to do so for quite awhile longer. Thank you
for your patience as the tide ebbs and flows right now.

In His Grip,
Lauren

Brokenness and Contrition

2007-02-23T07:00:00.000-08:00

But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed. --Isaiah 53:5 (NIV)

The Lenten season has begun. In the remaining 38 days before Easter, many of us will be preparing our hearts to focus on the magnitude and meaning of Christ's sacrifice on our behalf. For some, Lent involves contemplating the meaning by choosing to sacrifice some part of our own lives as an action of penance. Some choose to prepare through religious fasts, others with a slightly more personal spin, such as giving up eating chocolate.

Lent is not a renewal of our New Year's Resolutions any more than Christmas is about finding the perfect gift for the in-laws. One of the larger aspects of it is the oft-misunderstood concept of penance. Penance is defined as "the desire to be forgiven." A similar concept is contrition, which literally means "crushed by guilt." When I contemplate the work done on the cross, I cannot help but think of the intense physical pain that Christ endured. He was literally crushed for our iniquities.

When the Holy Spirit moves in us in such a way that we are moved to contrition, we too are crushed. Our conscience is pierced and we recognize not only that we deserve to be punished for our sins, but that we simply cannot pay the exacting price that God, who is completely just, deserves. Even though I know I grieved the Lord my God on countless occasions my faith and assurance of forgiveness enables me to see that it is not up to me to pay the price for my wickedness and sins. Christ has paid that price.

We do not need to let the evil one continue to beat us down or break us. If we have responded to God's offer of the free gift of grace, then the only part of us that needs to be broken is our will. Throughout this season of Lent, I will let Christ continue the good work he started in me, by seeking ways to let his will be the driving force in my life, rather than my own. Through prayer and meditation on God's Word, I will feel myself benefit from the peace and healing that Christ's affliction has bought for me. It's a sobering thought, and not an easy one to grasp.

Somehow I doubt that a mere 5 weeks is enough for such a process.

Searching the Heart

2007-01-19T00:00:00.000-08:00

Search me O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. --Psalm 139:23 (NIV)

Although we may be able to conceal our innermost thoughts and feelings from other people, we cannot hide them from God. For me, that is a comforting reality. I like knowing that even when my closest friends or family members are unable to understand my thought processes, God knows me better than I even know myself. From every tangled emotion that throws me off kilter to wordless prayers of inexpressible joy, God is present in all of it. He sees me and knows my heart at all times.

When I come before God in prayer, I am willingly standing before him exposed and vulnerable. This used to make me uneasy, but not anymore. I know that nothing he finds in my heart is surprising or shocking. He knows my anxious thoughts, the cares of my heart, and everything else that gets stored up internally in me. When I surrender my thoughts to him and ask him to test my anxious thoughts, he always brings about a feeling of peace and calm.

One of the ways God has tested me in the past with regard to my thoughts, is that he challenges me to trust him completely. He prompts me to respond faithfully to his offer to take my weighty load upon himself. No matter what is going on in my life, God can handle it. Unlike anyone else I lean on, God can completely shoulder the burden of the things that I let bother me. My heart's anxious and murky thoughts are skimmed away, leaving only a clear pool in which God's reflection can be clearly seen.

Thoughts on God and Healing

2007-01-18T09:54:00.000-08:00

But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. --2nd Corinthians 12:9 (NIV)

As a Christian who lives with chronic illness,I inevitably find myself involved in discussions about healing. Many people want to know whether I believe that God still heals today as he did in Jesus' time. Can God heal? Absolutely and without a doubt! Does he heal? If you mean miraculous healing, well I would suppose that depends.

I have heard it argued that anyone who suffers physically must be harboring unconfessed sin. Along those same lines is the belief that a person who suffers from a long-term illness must not have adequate faith. This idea is not new. In fact, Jesus' disciples thought those very things when they came across a man who had been blind from birth. (John 9) They asked Jesus whether the man's disability was the result of his sin or his parents'. Jesus told them that the man's blindness existed in order that the work of God might be displayed.

Although miraculous healing is certainly one way in which God's glory is revealed, God doesn't need to prove himself to any of us in such a way. His glory is revealed just as much by those who proclaim that God is their source of strength even in the midst of their suffering.

When God allows us to suffer, whether it be in the short term or long term, we should immediately recognize that we need Him. As we pray for the strength to stand firm in the midst of pain, we need to remember that miraculous healing may not be God's answer for us. Instead of praying for healing, we should pray that God will use the experience to teach us to trust him more fully. His grace truly is sufficient--even for the things that exhaust us physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Infringing on Salvation?

2007-01-16T23:09:00.000-08:00

"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!' --Matthew 7:21-23 (NIV)

These words from Jesus are particularly tough to absorb. At first they seem to contradict the prophet Joel's assertion in Chapter 2 that "all who call on the name of the lord will be saved." How can anyone even hope to be saved if calling on Jesus' name isn't good enough? Why is it that Jesus calls certain people "evildoers" when they are doing what appears to be good things, such as driving out demons and performing miracles?

A recent, and unfortunate, circumstance provided me with an interesting point of view on this. I learned that some of my copyrighted material was being used in the internet community at large. For the record, I do not permit my devotionals to be posted to any and every website that claims to have Christian ties. Although I know it is important to see that God's Word is spread faithfully to all who will hear, I believe I also have an obligation to apply discernment as to where the most fertile grounds may lie for seed planting.

In dealing with this problem of copyright infringement, I saw that many of the violators were sincere in their own approach to ministry. They did not know the specific rules pertaining to copyright; they just assumed that as long as they kept my byline attached to the work, that was the same as giving me proper credit. Unfortunately, this is not so. I appreciate being properly credited as the author, but this doesn't eliminate the fact that copyright law was violated. They were not using my work in a manner consistent with my personal mission statement. This could have easily been avoided if they had simply contacted me for permission.

When people merely claim Jesus' name but do not actively allow God's will and look for the Holy Spirit's influence in their lives, they are essentially infringing on Jesus' name. They overlook the work He did on the cross, and fail to live humbly in response to the gift of salvation. These are the people whom Jesus will say he never knew, for truly they are the people who never gave him more than a passing glance as they glimpsed the cross.

Jesus is not a byline in our lives. I hope I am never guilty of something as evil as infringing on his life-saving work.

All Fired Up

2007-01-15T23:41:00.000-08:00

Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. --Romans 12:11 (NIV)

Serving the Lord should be an all day, every day event. Much like many things that we should do, this is far more easily said than done. Fortunately, zeal and enthusiasm are not entirely the same thing. One source defines zeal as "prompt willingness." This is an important definition to consider, because it does not require us to be constantly in motion in order to possess spiritual fervor.

There are days when I worry that my zeal may be a bit lack-luster because of a lack of activity on my part. What I have learned in considering this verse is that I don't need to be "all fired up" in order to be effectively serving the Lord. The sincerity of my heart and the strength of my zeal is not dependent on how many activities I do with the church, how many people I encourage or how many Bible verses I can memorize. So long as I am willing to respond obediently to God's call, I am serving the Lord with fervor.

There's nothing wrong with this. Each of us equipped with a set of spiritual gifts. Zeal and fervor may look different from one person to another. In my mind's eye, I picture a heart aflame in one of two ways. Some people's hearts are lit in such way that their flames leap higher with every activity. These are our dear brothers and sisters who return from ministry planning events filled to the brim with ideas and excitement. Others (like myself) tend to exude a more steady, intense flame. It may not fluctuate much, but over time it proves consistent.

I think what Paul is trying to tell us in this verse is that our flame doesn't need to be huge in order to be effective. A steadily burning flame has just as much ignition potential as the crackling fires that spread quickly from one heart to the next. No matter how we get "all fired up" spiritually speaking, we need to do whatever it takes to keep the flame burning. To do this we need to maintain the prompt willingness that is fitting of a person with a zeal and passion for the Lord.

Spiritual Remedy

2007-01-10T05:47:00.000-08:00

How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth! --Psalm 119:103 (NIV)

As flu season spreads its sweaty blanket over most of the country, the local drugstores are filled with people looking for a soothing remedy. Even on the internet sites I frequent, suggestions for beating the symptoms and discomfort of the flu are traded back and forth as though they were tissue boxes. How's the old maxim go? Feed a cold, starve a fever? I don't know. What I do know is that periods of illness are when the body needs good nutrition the most.

The side effects of spiritual illness can be just as troublesome as a physical ailment. When we fall out of the pattern of good "health", we deplete our spiritual reserves. Decreased church attendance, infrequent prayer, and limited periods of scripture reading can render us helpless to fend off the attacks of the enemy. Our frail hearts can quickly succumb to spiritual "germs" that prey on our weaknesses. These give way to deeper problems of sin.

The solution? Proper spiritual nutrition and diet!

What are you doing these days for spiritual food? More importantly, how is your spiritual appetite? I know mine can go downhill in a big hurry when I'm not feeling well. It's so easy to get frustrated, especially since God isn't there with us face to face in a tangible sense. I have to remind myself that it's far more beneficial to spend my limited energy on a simple act of prayer, rather than wasting it being bitter. I love it when God gives me a taste of his sweet spirit. Even the tiniest morsel of it satisfies a weary soul.

Effective Evangelism

2007-01-08T20:18:00.000-08:00

I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing you have in Christ. --Philemon 6 (NIV)

It has been said that one of the most effective ways to learn something more completely is to teach it to someone else. This is particularly true for me as I have engaged in many theological and spiritual discussions with people over the years. One of the things that used to scare me about letting people know that I am a Christian was the thought of having to answer questions regarding my beliefs. How could I explain something to others when I was just beginning to understand it myself? As a result I was very passive with my faith, preferring to be simply labeled by me peers as a "church girl" instead of a evangelical Christian. I had firm convictions but failed to push my faith in the faces of others, so to speak.

Philemon was a man who had been converted to Christianity as a result of Paul's teaching. He was a likely a wealthy man, and prominent in the region of Colossae. Perhaps Philemon was afraid of being what would happen to his status is people knew he was a Christian. I suspect he may have had an attitude of complacency, like I did, which explains why the apostle Paul encouraged him to be active in sharing his faith.

Although a relationship with God is a deeply personal thing, it is not God's plan that anyone should be without it. People who already have a professed faith in Christ are duty bound to share what they know about God with others. As my own relationship with Christ grew and I grew better equipped to talk about Christianity with unbelievers, I knew I could no longer be a passive witness. I came to the realization that making disciples of all nations, as commanded by Jesus, was not going to happen so long as I was just sitting at home reading my Bible or riding around listening to worship music in my car.

I had to trust God to lead me outside my comfort zone so that I could bear witness to others of the truth of God's Word. By being active in my faith and sharing what I know with others, my own faith is strengthen. I am no longer afraid of being asked to defend my faith. I don't shy away from challenging questions about Christianity. God continues to teach me as he uses me; he opens my eyes to the good things I have in Christ, and that gives me more things to share with others!

Any Volunteers?

2007-01-07T22:42:00.000-08:00

Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said "Here am I. Send me!" --Isaiah 6:8 (NIV)

God speaks to each of us in unique ways. There are times when He shows us quite clearly what it is we are to do. Other times He points us in a particular direction and from there we must rely on the prompting of the Holy Spirit to help us see where it is we are to go. What matters most is not how well we understand God when he calls us, but that we respond to his call unequivocally.

When God called Isaiah to go prophesy to the nations, Isaiah replied without hesitation. "Here am I. Send me!" He didn't know that the Lord had in mind for him to do, nor did he know where the path would lead him, still he bounded to his feet, ready to serve the Lord. God was about to do big things throughout the kingdoms of Israel and Judea, and Isaiah's short response was all God needed to hear before things really got rolling.

We need to have the same attitude about volunteering to be used by God that Isaiah did. Whether we know exactly what God has in mind or not, we must voice our availability as soon as God asks. When He calls our name and points us in a particular direction, we must step forward dutifully and say "here am I." We can do this without fear because we know that God will be with us every step of the way as we serve Him; it's His plan, we're just along for the ride.

For the Beauty of the Earth

2007-01-05T05:39:00.000-08:00

By wisdom the Lord laid the earth's foundations, by understanding he set the heavens in place. --Proverbs 3:19 (NIV)

As an environmental scientist, I have a unique appreciation for the handiwork of the Creator. Earth science in general has always fascinated me, but when I was a college student this interest grew with each course in which I enrolled. Aside from what I had already learned about God from reading the Bible, two classes in particular truly re-emphasized God's awesome power and the wisdom with which he laid the earth's foundations and set the heavens in their place.

My lower division environmental science classes taught me about the delicate balance that exists in nature. As a Christian I know this did not come about by accident. Each glacier, each soil deposit, and each plant, have been deliberately placed in specific climates. The boundaries between freshwater and salt water were drawn by God, as were the paths for the rivers and their tributaries. All too often we fail to see the intricate design of this earth and marvel at the One who created it.

I read the following in one of my geology textbooks: "Some relationships [of the earth's systems] are so complex that scientists are only just beginning to understand them." Even with my scientific background, there are plenty of things that I don't understand about how the earth works.That's because my wisdom is nowhere close to God's. No one will ever completely understand the biological, physical and chemical nature of God's creation and the complexities with which those systems work together. Richard Dawkins, a renowned zoologist writes in his book The Blind Watchmaker, of the "sheer hugeness of biological complexity and the beauty and elegance of biological design..."

Whenever I stop and look at the world around me, or focus intently on my work, I am astonished at the earth's beauty. I am humbled to think that such a powerful God would share his most impressive works with me. His wisdom and understanding dwarfs my own, and for that I praise Him!

Why Pray?

2007-01-04T13:19:00.000-08:00

Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. --Colossians 4:2 (NIV)

I used to think of prayer as something that was merely recited before a meal or spoken in unison during a church service. Although those are times when prayers are offered, those aren't the only occasions when prayer should take place. Although I am still learning a lot about what prayer is, I have a good understanding of what prayer is not.

Prayer is not a memorized paragraph to be recited thoughtlessly. It is not something to be mumbled hastily over a meal. It is not a childhood bedtime ritual or a way of presenting God with a lengthy discourse about what we think we need from him.

I think of prayer as a conversation between myself and God. Sometimes I pray audibly, other times I do not. When I pray, my main goal is to gain a deeper understanding of how God wants me to proceed in life and a clearer picture of his nature. Over the years as I have learned to pray more earnestly, I have come to regard prayer as one of the most important parts of my relationship with God.

Prayer is a time to lay our hearts bare before God, allowing him to see our vulnerabilities, failures, and all the emotions that make us human. In order for me to be devoted to prayer, I must pray diligently in any and all circumstances. This not only brings me to a point of deeper level of intimacy in my relationship with God, but it also serves as an excellent weapon in the face of spiritual battle. When I am devoted to prayer, the Holy Spirit strengthens me and equips me to fight well in times of spiritual combat or conflict.

Prayer is of vital importance in my life--it keeps me connected to God in a way that I can't even fully comprehend.

Purifying the Heart

2007-01-03T08:38:00.000-08:00

Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash you hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts you double-minded. --James 4:8 (NIV)

My husband and I like starting the week with a neat and clean home. We straighten up the clutter that tends to accumulate from our ongoing projects, creating peaceful order from chaos. When everything is neatly in place, we are able to see and appreciate our living space.

What I like best about this time of year is the excitement that builds in my mind as I anticipate all the things I will see and do in the new year. I'm not talking just about New Year's resolutions, the goals I set for myself; I'm talking about the things that will shape who I am in Christ.

In order to be free to follow God down whatever path he has marked out for me, I need to clean up the clutter that gets in my way. Like starting the week with a clean home, I must begin each day with a clean heart. This involves coming near to God, standing at the foot of his throne in humble prayer. The process of purifying my heart in such a way isn't always easy. There are always plenty of things competing for my attention.

Without God I am helpless and useless. Furthermore, unless my heart is purified, it is useless because it will have no room in my life for the things God wants to teach me. When I clear out the clutter I can see more clearly the living space that God has designed for me--the richness and fullness of his glory.

The Struggle Against Temptation

2007-01-02T10:05:00.000-08:00

"Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak." --Matthew 26:41 (NIV)

There is nothing taking place on earth that God has not ordained. This includes temptations. However, one must not conclude that because God has ordained something that He has caused it.

In the Biblical account of Job's trials, one of the most important details is that even Satan must ask God's permission to manipulate the circumstances of a person's life. Although that may be a difficult concept to grasp, it is essential to understanding that God does not tempt mankind; rather, he allows the temptation to take place.

Most Christians agree that everything that happens is part of God's sovereign and perfect plan. How then does temptation fit into this ideal? What is the purpose of temptation, and how does it serve to glorify God? The answer depends on a person's individual vantage point.

Those who are not believers and do not profess an ongoing relation argue that temptation is God's way of tormenting His creatures. Similar to the attitude expressed by Jim Carrey's character in the movie "Bruce Almighty", they regard God as a big mean kid with a magnifying glass, burning the antennae off the heads of insects. If this is truly the case, then giving in to temptation is passive, and results in God ultimately getting His way.

But this is not how the Christian views temptation. Temptation is a natural consequence of living in a fallen world. Mankind's sinful nature will always gravitate toward that which is not beneficial. The ability to resist temptation ultimately comes from the strength provided by the Holy Spirit. In realizing this, the Christian understands his own weakness when juxtaposed with the strength of the Creator God.

Temptation is a source of constant struggle for the Christian. It has been said that since Satan knows he will not be able to torment the Christian for the rest of eternity, then he will torment men of God for as long as that man is of flesh and blood. Again, this demonstrates how, like in the story of Job, God has the final say over what happens in a man's life. Satan may have his day in the life of a Christian, but God holds mankind's soul for an eternity.

Something more Permanent

2007-01-01T16:53:00.000-08:00

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. --Colossians 3:1-3 (NIV)

For the last 5 months, the window treatment in the master bedroom has been, well, a work in progress. The drapery rods and curtains are quite attractive, but the shades covering the window were atrocious. They were the 2-dollar adhesive variety that we purchased out of sheer necessity with little regard to aesthetics. I don't know why it took me so long to replace them, other than the fact that I was too lazy to want to expend the simple effort. I managed to convince myself that they looked fine.

Today the old shades came down and in their place I installed new ones. The hardest part about putting up the new ones was eliminating the remnant pieces of the old shades. Even as flimsy as they were, the adhesive proved a formidable challenge. It was almost as though it was reluctant to give up its place in the window to something more permanent. All traces of the old ones needed to come out to make room for the sturdy ones.

The same is true of things I harbor in my heart at times. I convince myself that things I do really aren't that bad, and that making changes requires too much work. I know that I should give all of my thoughts and actions over to God, but I am often set in my ways. My head tells me that what God has to offer me in exchange for my old way of doing things is far better than whatever I was attempting on my own, but still I falter. In order to live fully for Christ, I need to let go and let Him take over.

Like installing the new shades, the Holy Spirit works in my heart to establish a new attitude. Where previously my heart had been occupied by flimsy ideas, ugly sins, and fleeting fancies, I am given something more permanent. Daily I am reminded that I need to look not to things of this world for satisfaction, but to God. As His will unfolds in my life, I learn that the saving grace that God has extended to me is the only thing worth treasuring.

As long as I'm on earth, my heart will be a work in progress. Trading in the temporary for the permanent isn't always easy, but the end result is beautiful.

The Recovery Process

2006-12-29T16:37:00.000-08:00

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.--Galatians 5:1 (NIV)

Today marks the end of the second week since I have come home from the hospital. The underlying infection seems to be gone, but I still have a long way to go in order to heal completely. My impatient nature tells me that I should be up and around by now. My wonderful husband reminds me that my body has been through quite a lot and it will take longer than I may have expected to return to a level of good health. The folks at my doctor's office tell me the same thing. They said that I didn't get sick overnight and I certainly won't recover overnight either.

In some ways, that's true of our sinful nature as well. Since our naturally sin is present even from when we are infants, by the time we reach an age where we are aware of our grievous shortcomings, we've got a lot of bad stuff to "unlearn." We didn't become entrenched in sin overnight and we certainly aren't purged of it overnight either.

I don't think that it is possible to live a life free from sin as long as we are here on the earth. It isn't until we cross over from this world into the next that we are truly blameless and righteous. In the meantime, we must strive daily to let ourselves "recover" so to speak, from our sin. Christ has set us free from sin, but he hasn't set us free from our human nature. We will continue to struggle with temptation to sin. There are times when we will still give in to our sinful desires.

The good news is that for those of us who have freedom in Christ, we are given an extra boost of strength. Just like the antibiotics I take help ward off future infections, a life lived with Christ as the center can strengthen us against becoming burdened by overwhelming sin. Still, this is an ongoing process. I cannot take just one pill and expect to be healthy for the rest of my life. Nor can I make a one-time commitment to living for Jesus and then never consciously make an effort to do so.

So many things in life are an ongoing process. Living for Jesus and standing firmly on the hope He gives me is worth the effort. I know I can't become utterly blameless overnight. I find a great deal of peace and freedom in knowing that God doesn't expect that of me. He expects daily effort, and that's what I can give.

Memorable Names

2006-12-26T20:36:00.000-08:00

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. --Isaiah 9:6 (NIV)

People have trouble pronouncing my last name. I have heard just about every conceivable mispronunciation of my first name as well. When I introduce myself, I make certain that the second syllable of "Lauren" is heard clearly, otherwise I may have to answer to Laura, Laurie or Lorna for the remainder of the conversation. There is nothing wrong with those names of course, it's just that none of them are MY name.

I, like most people feel a bit slighted when the proper spelling or pronunciation of his or her name is overlooked or disregarded. One cannot help but take it personally when something so personal as a name is passed over discourteously.

There are times when I feel as though I have only just been introduced to God and have to be reminded of how to correctly pronounce His name. The last thing I want to do is fail to recognize Him with the appropriate reverence. I know that His name is the name above all names. Furthermore, God the Father is one and the same with the infant born to Mary and raised as Joseph's son. Jesus the Christ is King of the Jews as was mockingly attributed to him the night of his crucifixion. Centuries before the Messiah made his appearance, his name was determined.

Wonderful Counselor. Mighty God. Everlasting Father. Prince of Peace.

I am fascinated by those names, and even more so when I consider them in light of God's character. The great I AM has seen fit to dwell among us in human form, not to experience life, but to save us from death. That is what makes His name worth calling upon and worth remembering.

Let My Pride Fall Down

2006-12-22T11:07:00.000-08:00

Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. --Proverbs 16:18 (NIV)

I struggle with pride. There are days when I view certain things in my life as having come from my efforts and not as blessings straight from God. With a haughty spirit I think to myself "look at what I did" and give myself a virtual pat on the back. I'm ashamed of this attitude and embarrassed by how easily I open my ears to the lies that the enemy knows whispers to me to make me lose sight of God.

In the past, it was selfish pride that drove me to keep God at arm's length, failing to yield to his authority. I thought that I was doing just fine on my own and didn't need an unseen God to somehow run my life for me. Now I see just how dangerous this attitude was. God graciously saved me from this when He called my name and I finally responded. Had this not happened, my pride would have caused me to stumble and fall in the worst way possible--I very well could have fallen into a lifetime of sin and have spent my eternity out of God's favor.

These days when my pride threatens to unseat God from a place of central prominence in my life, I remember the consequence of such behavior and I am immediately humbled. I would much rather my pride fall down and that God would send me to my knees than fall back into depravity. Even when I'm prideful, God is merciful enough to stay beside me. He is never frustrated by my shortcomings. He continues to teach me and mold me into a better person, not to mention a more humble person.

Presumptuous Prayers?

2006-12-21T01:35:00.000-08:00

And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it. --John 14:13-14 (NIV)

Two weeks ago God used my husband to touch my life in a powerful way. During a visit with me at the hospital we watched some television together and then I drifted off to sleep. While I slept, I slipped into unconsciousness and began experiencing a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention.

This recent experience has taken my appreciation and love for him to a new level. Not only do I thank God for him repeatedly, but I almost feel a certain degree of indebtedness to him, even to the point of being apologetic for continuing to need his help. I suppose in some sense that's a reasonable reaction to what happened at the hospital. Brad explained to me that I don't need to feel like I'm being demanding or presumptuous to ask him for things. After all, he loves me and will do whatever is in his power to demonstrate that to me. He knows I'm not asking for things just because I'm too lazy to do it myself.

His explanation of why he doesn't mind doing things when I ask reminded me of how it is when we ask God for things. There are times when we all feel like it is not our place to ask something of such a powerful God who was merciful enough to save us from death. Instead of approaching His throne and asking Him for the things He longs to give us, we hesitate, afraid of Him reacting by saying "haven't I already done enough for you?"

God doesn't often respond to our requests with such a human display of emotion. His character is unlike that of anything or anyone we are familiar with on earth. When we pray with humility and awareness of what He's done, He responds in ways that attest to his glory. Prayers of supplication (i.e. requesting things of God) is not presumptuous. With the proper attitude, such prayers can open our hearts to recognize even greater things that God does out of His unconditional love for us.

Burning Brightly

2006-12-19T23:56:00.000-08:00

When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." --John 8:12 (NIV)

After three long weeks cooped up in a hospital with only a tiny (and not particularly inviting!) shower, I longed for an uninterrupted time of peace and solitude soaking in a nice hot bathtub. This private occasion called for a little mood lighting, so I gathered what few candles we had lying around. There was just one problem...we didn't have any matches or a lighter.

How could I light those candles without matches or a lighter? My first attempt involved turning on one of the gas burners on the stove and setting the end of a wooden shish-kabob stick aflame. That seemed to work. Gingerly I brought the flame over to the first candle and experienced a great sense of accomplishment when it lit immediately.

I turned around and was about to proceed to the bathroom when I encountered another problem. The candles were lit, but how was I going to carry them up the stairs without letting the wicks become snuffed out my my forward motion? Three times I attempted to reach the bathroom, and three times I was unsuccessful. So much for for a candlelit evening in the tub.

A life spent without Jesus is like trying to keep a candle lit in a strong breeze. There are things that can be done to shelter the flame for awhile, but eventually it will die out leaving behind nothing more than a piece of charred string and the stench of smoke. No matter how many times a person gets the flame going, there's precious little that will be able to sufficiently fuel it and keep it burning. Like my attempts to carry a burning candle up the stairs, such a life is a lesson in futility.

Jesus is the light of the world. His light never flickers, never fades, and never dies out no matter how strong the wind. Following Him is the only way for us to burn brightly. Walking the path of light with Him not only allows us to see things illuminated that we may have otherwise missed, but the path He leads us on is the path to eternal life. This is something I know I will remember when the last advent candle is lit this Christmas. Jesus, the light of the world stepped down into the darkness and gave us light.

Temporary Challenges, Everlasting Peace

2006-12-18T13:02:00.000-08:00

So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. --Luke 2:4-5 (NIV)

Unwed and expecting a baby, Mary and Joseph's nerves were probably shot. They had already weathered the stress of their situation and were probably eager to begin life as a married couple and get on with life. But God had one more challenge for them before that could happen--one more detail that fulfilled the ancient prophecies about the conditions surrounding the birth of the Messiah.

By decree of the Roman governor, everyone in the region was required to return to the city of their family's origins in order to be counted in the census. The distance between Nazareth and Bethlehem is approximately 70 miles and may have taken nearly a week to complete. What incredible fortitude and faith Mary and Joseph must have had to pack up at such an inconvenient time in their lives and trek to a tiny, overcrowded city.

Life's biggest challenges rarely come at convenient moments. If they did, they wouldn't be nearly so challenging! In the midst of such events, there may be no clear reason why God is allowing them to take place. Most likely, God's plan to use those times will not even be evident for generations to come. If the angel Gabriel had not alerted Mary and Joseph that what was happening was directly from God, they might have been overwhelmed beyond belief by all of it. As it was, it was already a difficult thing to endure. Still, they placed their faith firmly in God and rested as peacefully as possibly knowing that God's hand was at work in their lives.

No matter what inconvenient trials we face, we also can have the peace that comes from putting our hope and faith in God. We do not have to understand or even like what events may befall us. Just as the angels proclaimed a message of peace and joy to the shepherds on the night of Jesus' birth, peace does exist on earth for all of mankind. The joy of the Christmas season lies not only in celebrating the coming of the Messiah, the Savior, but the arrival of a long awaited everlasting peace.

Praying in the Bathroom

2006-12-03T09:00:00.000-08:00

Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. -- Psalm 51:10 (NIV)

Each morning, with bleary, half-open eyes, I open the bathroom cabinet and begin placing my medications in order on the counter. For all of my adult life I have been doing my best to take all of my pills, inhalers and vitamin supplements, as well as perform chest physiotherapy (a way of "jump starting" my wimpy lungs) as fastidiously as possible.

It is in my own best interest that I comply with my doctor's orders, even when it means getting up early and taking more than a dozen medications. Although some days I would much prefer additional sleep, I know that my physical well-being depends largely on my medications. Without them I am prone to infection and fatigue.

Similarly, my spiritual well-being is deeply rooted in making the effort to spend time consistently with God. When I start my day with prayer and reflection on His Word, I am strengthened inwardly. During those times when I let myself become lackadaisical about spending time in prayer, I run the risk of allowing sinful thoughts and a negative attitude to take root in my heart.

Like a persistent cough that leaves me hoarse, failure to spend time with God wears out my spiritual resolve. Only when I return to a pattern of engaging in a meaningful, consistent prayer and devotional life, do I find my spiritual health being restored. In the last eighteen months, God has used my morning routine to get me to focus on him. As I sit quietly in the bathroom, letting my nebulizer fill my lungs with fortifying medication, I open my heart as I read God’s Word and let him fill my soul with His presence.

I am thankful for the ways that God meets me in my weakest moments. Parts of my life as mundane and time consuming as managing cystic fibrosis, can become precious and uplifting when they are spent with God. My morning prayers may originate in the bathroom, but I am confident that they find their way to the throne of heaven.

Smudged

2006-11-21T14:14:00.000-08:00

Every prudent man acts out of knowledge, but a fool exposes his folly. --Proverbs 13:16 (NIV)

"Come on, come on," I muttered agitatedly.

The printer whirred calmly with mechanical indifference, unaware that I was under a bit of pressure. Several seconds later, the page of labels I had been waiting for so impatiently began to appear. I yanked my prize unceremoniously from the printer before the sheet was completely free of the rollers. In doing so I managed to smudge the ink on the bottom half of the page, rendering the text unreadable.

That was just one mistake I made, but it kept me from making an even bigger one.

In my haste to prepare my packages to meet the FedEx pickup deadline in the mail room, I had fed glossy labels into an inkjet printer. The labels smudged largely because I hadn't allowed the ink to dry. However, I realized that with a little bit of effort I could use my thumb to wipe away the addresses on the other labels too. I'm glad I noticed this small but critical detail before I shipped the packages out to our clients. What a disaster this could have caused had I proceeded to put them in the mail!

There are times when little inconveniences--particularly the kind we cause ourselves like in my smudged label situation--make me pause just long enough to sit back and look at the bigger picture. Some of the things that seem to slow me down are my own fault. Nonetheless, I am quite certain that everything happens for a reason. In my own experience those things are not just happenstance or coincidence. God uses such things to remind me to look to him for answers, direction and instruction, not to mention discipline.

Today I learned that it's okay if I don't get things right the first time, but I do need to slow down and pay attention to the things that matter. I am thankful for the seemingly inconvenient things that God uses to get my attention.

Breathing On Mars

2006-11-20T14:32:00.000-08:00

“the LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.” Genesis 2:7 (NIV)

The earth’s atmosphere is composed of nearly 21% oxygen. By contrast, the atmosphere on Mars is mere 0.13% oxygen—hardly enough to make that planet seem a likely place for life to exist. With every breath, our body’s energy production is increased as the red blood cells are infused with this life-sustaining element. Without sufficient levels of oxygen, major body organs are at risk of being damaged. Considering what science has proven about life and the requirement for certain atmospheric conditions, how is it that some scientists still hope to discover life on a planet that is so barren and inhospitable? What is the key to discovering and/or cultivating life on Mars?

Perhaps this is the stuff of science fiction, but maybe there’s something of a spiritual truth hidden in our quest for life on other planets. If someday life was found on Mars, the first question most scientists would want answered is “how does it survive?”

On days when I feel overwhelmed, spiritually attacked, and utterly exhausted from living in an unwelcoming world, I ask myself that very question about faith. How does it survive? How does faith endure when for all intents and purposes I should have given up hope long ago?

What is the spiritual equivalent of oxygen? What keeps the spirit and heart functioning enough to keep moving without losing ground?

The answer is found in God, and the work of his Holy Spirit. In ways I cannot explain or easily comprehend, I know that I have been given a way to breathe in fresh, pure oxygen in a place where the atmosphere is filled with carbon dioxide. I am able to survive because of what Christ has done for me. It is as though the hostile conditions of the Martian atmosphere have been converted into something that doesn’t leave me futilely gasping for breath.

Rotting Fruit

2006-11-17T14:46:00.000-08:00

“Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned.” –John 15:4-6 (NIV)

Allow me to share with you the deeply theological lyrics of a song I learned at church camp. We called it "The Banana Song" but I'm not sure if that's its official name.

I like bananas.
I know that mangoes are sweet.
I like papayas. (Papayas?)
But nothing can beat
that sweet love of God.

Well I was walking 'round in circles 5 miles an hour,
trying to find my way back to my heavenly Father,
the world had tasted sweet but it soon turned sour
then I asked him in and received his power!

My husband and I like bananas, but we have very different ideas of how ripe a banana should be in order to taste good. I like them best when the skin is uniformly yellow and a few freckles have begun to appear. Brad likes his bananas to be fairly firm, the skin freckle-free and almost green. Unfortunately, the green banana stage only lasts for a little while once the bunch has arrived home from the grocery store.

As an environmental scientist I know that once a fruit has been picked, the point where it broke away from the branch begins producing a gas called ethylene, which speeds up the decay process and ripens it at a rapid pace. This is why so many of our bananas are over-ripened and squishy before we can enjoy them. If they aren’t too far gone, I’ll use them for banana bread. Otherwise it’s into the trash they go.

When we are apart from God, something inside us begins to over-ripen us like the ethylene does to the bananas. The things of the world can be a poisonous gas and eat away at our desire to be obedient to God. By breaking away from Christ, who is the vine, we run the risk of falling into a state of spiritual decay. We may be okay for awhile, possibly even useful and appealing, but eventually we are fit for nothing. Apart from Him, we can do nothing. Like it says in the banana song, "nothing can beat that sweet love of God."

Waxing Philosophical: Knowing God

2006-11-15T07:22:00.000-08:00

For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. --Romans 1:20 (NIV)

My knowledge of and belief in God--the one true God--comes as a result of what theologians have termed special revelation and general revelation.

People of faith for centuries before this millennium were called to put their hope in One who was unseen. Hebrews 11 gives an account of several examples of people who knew that God existed and behaved faithfully in response to that belief. Some of them had their faith bolstered by special revelation, which is how God reveals himself to mankind in a way that is not part of every day common occurrences. Hearing the voice of God for example, as Noah did when commanded to build the ark, was a form special revelation.

As a believer in modern times, I am challenged to cling to faith in a Savior who is no longer walking and talking among us in the physical sense. However, I do have the benefit of general revelation. General revelation is probably what Aristotle was talking about when he applied the philosophy of empiricism, which defines all knowledge as coming via the senses. I imagine that understanding and believing in the Divine must be difficult for empiricists since they would likely need to see, feel, hear or touch something before it would be real to them. I wonder if the Jesus' disciple, Thomas, was an empiricist.

I walk by faith and not by sight. In doing so I accept the reality, character and nature of God to be something outside my grasp. I am finite, therefore I cannot comprehend that which is infinite. My brain simply does not compute such a thing. Even with God's inspired Word, I must grapple with faith and hope that will not be completely fulfilled on this side of eternity.

Awareness of God is not something I could have attained solely by natural means. I believe that I am able to recognize God and demonstrate faith in him because the Holy Spirit continually tunes my heart to do so. The part of my psyche that longs for this universe to make sense demands that there be a creator God and that he be greater than anything I could hope to comprehend. In my soul I know that God is real and that he exists in infinite time and space. Anything I know about God, any awareness or understanding I have of him is because he has chosen to reveal himself to me as he sees fit.

Expectations Met

2006-11-14T07:29:00.000-08:00

Then Solomon stood before the altar of the LORD in front of the whole assembly of Israel, spread out his hands toward heaven and said:

"O LORD, God of Israel, there is no God like you in heaven above or on earth below—you who keep your covenant of love with your servants who continue wholeheartedly in your way. You have kept your promise to your servant David my father; with your mouth you have promised and with your hand you have fulfilled it—as it is today.” –1st Kings 8:22-24 (NIV)

My chicken sandwich tasted like coffee. In fact, for the past two weeks just about everything that I've brought from home and heated in the microwave at work comes out smelling like coffee. The scent clings to everything. Thanks to a few administrative changes, we now have a particularly well-known brand of caffeinated liquid available to us in place of the nameless store-brand stuff. I'm not complaining, I like a good cup of coffee. Nonetheless, I didn't pack my lunch for the day salivating at the thought of coffee-flavored chicken.

Just as I have an expectation about what a home-made chicken sandwich should taste like, I also have expectations about how certain people should act and behave. I expect that my boss at work is the type of person who is worth of respect and knows how to delegate authority in order to get a job done. Likewise, he expects me to do my work efficiently and to ask for help when I need it.

I also expect certain things in my marriage, and so does my husband. We don't expect things in ways that make us demeaning or demanding—quite the opposite in fact. By insisting that we each uphold the vows we took as husband and wife, and living them out on a daily basis, we are honoring and loving one another in the greatest way we know how.

I even expect things of God. That may sound presumptuous, perhaps even impudent, but it isn’t. The things I expect of God are those that are consistent with his character. I expect him to have the answers to the things that I cannot and will not ever be able to answer. I expect him to be near me every day as I call on his name. Perhaps my biggest expectation of God is that he will welcome me into heaven because I put my faith in the life, death and resurrection of his son, Jesus. I have faith and hope that such an expectation is not in vain.

God expects things of me too. He expects that I will love him even when I don’t understand why. He expects me to faithfully live my life in obedience to him and adherence to his commands. Also, because he knows that I am a flawed human being and completely incapable of living a perfect life, he expects me to fall to my knees in repentance each and every time I fail.

Beyond this world I don’t quite know what to expect. Even in a world with which I’m reasonable familiar and comfortable, things happen here that are unexpected--a coffee-flavored chicken sandwich comes to mind. Maybe those events are just one of the ways that God reminds me that for as much as my life changes his love remains the same. He keeps his covenant of love with his people wholeheartedly. Because of his eternal nature, I can expect that reality to continue forever.

Salt in the Wound

2006-11-13T15:24:00.000-08:00

But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed. –Isaiah 53:5 (NIV)

Mono Lake, located within 20 miles of Yosemite National Park in California, is one of the oldest lakes in North America. The most notable features of the lake are the towers of Tufa (too-fuh). These formations result when mineral deposits get washed into the lake from the streams of the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains and are subsequently left behind as the freshwater evaporates. Every year the salt concentration of the lake rises as evaporation continues. Currently, Mono Lake is more than twice as salty as ocean water.

That is a fact I cannot easily forget.

A few years ago I was in Mono County participating in three week course for my major as an environmental scientist. One of the projects involved a day trip to Mono Lake where my classmates and I were to conduct a series of scientific observations. As I climbed out of our small boat and set foot on the creaking dock at the end of the day, I heard a small gasp behind me followed by an unmistakable “plunk!” Sharon had been attempting to dry her hands on her pant legs when her ring slipped off her finger, slid between the cracks in the dock and sank unceremoniously into the saline waters.

“My ring!”

I knew how upset I would be if I had lost such a beautiful piece of jewelry, so I immediately began rolling up my pants as I waded into the lake.

“YEOW!!!!” I yelped as I splashed around trying to find the ring as quickly as possible so I could get back on dry land.

If I had known how much pain my skinny legs were going to endure, I would have proceeded far differently. I would have either forgone shaving that morning or refrained from jumping into the water so quickly. Although more than 8 hours had passed since I shaved my legs that morning, the amount of salt in the water was enough to irritate my skin, inducing the worst case of razor burn I had ever had.

***

When Jesus was up on the cross, he was not there wishing he had done anything differently. He chose to endure the wretched, merciless punishment of death for each of us. He “rolled up his pant legs” so to speak, knowing exactly how painful the sting of our sins would feel against his human flesh. Still, he did not flinch. He did not complain about it; he did not curse us for our carelessness and our part in his death. The wounds inflicted on him at the cross bring us peace.

In both the physical and spiritual sense, he jumped into a truly inhospitable, painful environment to keep our souls from being eternally corroded because of our sins. I may have thought twice about my decision to help my friend recover her precious jewelry involved, but Jesus never hesitated to recover God’s precious children.

I’ll never forget how salty Mono Lake is. More importantly, I’ll never forget to be thankful for what Jesus endured in my stead and the eternity of peace I have because of his sacrifice for me.